Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum

A field-trip staple since 1978, the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is an expansive collection of interactive experiences to educate and entertain the young and young at heart. Housed within a converted firehouse and adjacent buildings, the museum has over 250 exhibits focusing on topics like the body, energy, and nature.

How to get to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
From Detroit, take I-94 westbound to exit #175. The museum is located on 220 East Ann Street. The museum does not have it's own parking, though there are several nearby garages.

Admission to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
Tickets are $12 for both adults and children 2 and older (kids younger than 2 are free). The museum offers $5 admission after 5:00PM every Thursday. The museum also offers membership plans and discount rates for groups.

Must See/Do at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
A perennial favorite is the Bubble Capsule, where the young and young at heart can surround themselves in a giant soap bubble. In the MediaWorks gallery, see how TV weather is created by filming your own forecast in front of a green screen. For the outdoorsy, check out the interactive natural wall in the Michigan Nature exhibit.

Other Places to Visit Near the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
In the mood for a more contemplative museum experience? Check out the University of Michigan's Museum of Art. For the kids, a great stop is the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History. Ann Arbor, one of the cultural hubs of Michigan, also boasts an eclectic arts scene, with art galleries, independent movie houses and unique restaurants like the world-famous Zingerman's Delicatessen.

Insider tip for visitors to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum
If you're looking for a unique way to celebrate, consider holding a birthday party at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum.

Author's bio: Jeff Birou is an education administrator by day, travel and freelance writer by night. You can find him at his blog, Lance+Jeff, or on Twitter at @lanceandjeff.