If your kids are anything like mine, they are drawn to water. No matter what vacation we’re on — even if we’re visiting the “happiest place on earth” — the hotel pool is as much of an attraction as any theme park. For adults, pools also offer a great way to fit in your workout when you’re traveling. Here in metro Detroit, many of our hotels offer indoor pools, outdoor pools or both.

Otter Pup and Mother

Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 12. (Mark your calendars, people!) If your family is like most, celebrating the holiday typically means treating Mom to a meal out. And while noshing on a big brunch is definitely nice (a girl’s gotta eat, right?), it usually means consuming way too many calories in one sitting.

So this year instead of simply gathering at the table, consider planning some outdoor activities in and around The D. Not only will they get you up and moving, they’ll let you spend some extra quality time with Mom.

Photo Credit: Andy Galbraith

Think you’re going to sit at home drinking beer in your green shirt this St. Patrick’s Day? Think again. With our list of exciting ways to celebrate the Irishman’s holiday, you’ll want to think green all month long.

The following is a guest post by Joe Webster. If you are interested in becoming a guest blogger for Visit Detroit, please send us an email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with subject line: Guest Blogger.

Okay, so the winters here in Michigan are not for the faint of heart. It is tempting to spend the cold season doing nothing more than whiling away the days around a fire indoors while enjoying warm libations as the temps continue to drop with each passing day. This may especially be the case if you’ve just moved to the area; the cold can be a slap of Midwestern reality across the cheek. But there is so much to enjoy outdoors, so why not bundle up, breathe in the fresh (albeit cold!) air and be as active as possible? There are so many winter wonders in this area that it can be hard to whittle your choices down. Consider several fun cold-weather pastimes that will put some pep in your step and help you earn that hot chocolate.

The ice rink is open, the tree is lit and the lights are sparkling—it’s the holiday season in the Motor City! Here’s your guide for how to spend a holly, jolly holiday in The D with plenty of merry sights and sounds to get you in the spirit.