Ann Arbor is a welcoming and creative destination for families full of interactive museums, spacious parks and free things to do. 

We recently invited residents and local photographers Bethany and Chris Ahern, along with their children Quinn and Axel, to spend a day exploring Ann Arbor. As visual storytellers, they captured special moments from some of their favorite family-friendly spots.


Click the location to jump to the Ahern's family experience:

​Now, hear directly from Bethany and Chris in their own words and through their lenses. Browse their photos, and find out what makes each spot special. Take it away!


U-M Museum of Natural History

One of our favorite places in Ann Arbor is the U-M Museum of Natural History. We asked Axel what he enjoyed the most about the museum and he said he liked climbing the big stairs to see the dinosaurs on the ceiling. Although, anyone who doesn't share his enthusiasm for climbing can take the elevator without missing out on the amazing atrium view of the prehistoric whale skeletons suspended high above the ground floor mastodon display.  

What I love about this museum is that there is enough going on there to keep the kids interested, but it's not just for them. It's a suitable attraction for people of all ages.

We loved the staff guided hands-on activities that were offered. They showed Axel how to use a pipette to make colorful artwork. Kids had the opportunity to use microscopes, and draw and display their own pictures.


Leslie Science & Nature Center

We were on the fence about making a stop here, since we'd miss the opportunity to see the animals and hands-on presentation at the Critter House, but we are so glad we decided to go anyway! There is plenty to do that is free and open to the public daily. 

Quinn had never seen a raptor in person before, so getting so close to a bald eagle was a special experience for her. They have outdoor enclosures along a path called the ‘raptor loop’ that also features hawks, owls, and vultures with information plaques about the animals.   


County Farm Park

The County Farm Park playground is one of our favorites in Ann Arbor. It features shade structures shaped like a giant butterfly and flower, an area for sand play, bouncy spring riders, inclusive swings, multiple play structures with tunnels and slides, and incorporates rocks for climbing and balancing.

It's a nice park for walking and biking, with views of beautiful landscaping and flowers, a large community garden, wildlife, and wooded trails.


These are some of our favorite places to visit as a family, and there are so many more we love to visit. We can't wait to see where adventure leads us next. 

 


We’d like to give the Chris, Bethany, Axel, and Quinn a very special thank you for sharing how they spend quality time in Ann Arbor!  

 

About the Authors: 

Bethany and Chris Ahern are local residents, professional photographers, and visual storytellers providing creative points view in capturing the visual rhythm of place.

Chris and Bethany Ahern stand smililng with sparklers in their hands. Dark backdrop

From the energy of the city, to Michigan’s natural beauty, to portrait photography, Chris and Bethany enjoy capturing and creating meaningful moments. 

Learn more about Ahern photography: 

 

 

LIKE OUR CONTENT?

Get all of the latest Ann Arbor area happenings delivered to your inbox. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter.

Follow Destination Ann Arbor on social media: @annarbor Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and @destinationannarbor on TikTok.