Help! Things to Do in West Michigan this Christmas Break.

Every parent could use some inspiration what to do with the kids this Christmas break, and we’re here to help with our top suggestions!

Let’s start the Christmas spirit with an early afternoon at the Critter Barn to see their live nativity.   It’s free although they accept donations. Or, if you don’t have little kids, visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens to see their Christmas tree display.  After the critters or trees, you could go to Pigeon Creek Park, where you can rent snow shoes for $8 per hour.  After an hour of snow shoeing, it’ll be cold outside, and hot chocolate at Outside Coffee in a geodome is the best thing to do next.  Later in the evening, you could hop in the car to check out some Christmas light displays.  You could either tour some of the best and brightest houses which GRKIDS nicely put together on this list or if you don’t want to be driving everywhere, stop by the Fifth Third Ballpark’s Lite Show for $25 per car.   By the end of the day, you will have created a fantastically memorable day for about $50 for the entire family.

Another great day would be to start with ice skating at Rosa Park Circle.  It will cost $1-3 per person to rent skates and will provide a few hours of fun and activity.  Move on to the Downtown Market to have a quick bite to eat, and maybe buy some stuff to make a homemade dinner as a family, and end the day with attending a Griffins game (they play in GR on December 27) or see Elf the Musical, at the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre (until December 22).

The Grand Rapids Art Museum provides free entrance during winter break.  They have free drop in studio hours to create some fantastic art. The drop-in dates and hours are December 26-29 from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Of course, you can always spend an afternoon or evening at the Mudroom and create some pottery or send the kids to a class.  Starting from $10, you’ll have some fun without creating a mess at home.  If you want something available for a spur of the moment craft, go to Hobby Lobby, and with a 40% off coupon, you could make a Christmas tree without too much difficulty and limited cost. 

And, living in Michigan, nearly always provides snow.  Just an hour of sledding, skating, or skiing will provide much needed fresh air. Consider buying a $5.00 gift to create a contest for your kids to make the best snowman.

Any activity in snowy Michigan is inspiring!

No matter what you do: spend time with your kids.  You may have your kids with you all the time or only have limited parenting time. But no matter what, all parents have their kids on loan and your time with them is limited and precious.  Enjoy them!