Michigan Activity Pass: Free & Discounted Summer Fun Awaits

Happy family jumping together on the beach

Tomwang112/ Getty Images

Summer vacation is finally here, and kids everywhere are bursting with excitement. But for some parents, this sunny season often means scrambling to find ways to keep their kids entertained. While fancy camps and cool classes sound great, they can sometimes come with a big price tag that doesn’t fit every budget.

Luckily, there's no need to worry. There are tons of affordable and even free activities that kids can enjoy all summer long. From local adventures to fun at-home projects, there are plenty of creative and wallet-friendly ways to make this summer a good one.

Michigan Activity Pass or MAP

Did you know your library card gives you more than just access to thousands of books? it also provides free and discounted fun around Michigan.

With your library card, you can access the Michigan Activity Pass (MAP), which offers free admission and discounts to hundreds of attractions in Metro Detroit and beyond, including parks, museums, and theaters.

Currently, some of the passes available in Southeast Michigan include buy-one-get-one-free coupons for the Department of Natural Resources Outdoor Adventure Center, free day passes to nearby Michigan state parks and recreation areas, and free tickets to the Michigan Flight Museum & Air Adventures.

The adventures extend beyond Metro Detroit, with passes available for activities across the state, such as discounts on lighthouse tours, skydiving coupons, and more. Most MAP activities can be accessed by entering your library card number online, while some require a call to the venue.

Typically, one MAP can be checked out per library card every seven days and is valid for a week after being claimed.

My 8-year-old twin nieces currently have Michigan Activity Passes and have enjoyed many trips throughout the year. Their mom saved 25 percent on tickets to SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium in Auburn Hills, reduced admission to Flint Children’s Museum, and enjoyed many trips to the Detroit Institute of Arts with a buy one general admission, get one free general admission deal.

The Michigan Activity Pass program is a statewide collaborative effort between Michigan’s public libraries and participating destinations.

How To Get a Library Card

For most libraries in the state of Michigan, you can apply in person at their reference desk during their open hours. Some libraries allow you to apply online for an eCard. It’s worth noting that Library of Michigan cards do not substitute for cards from your local public library or other public libraries in the state. You can use the Michigan Library Directory to find your local public library and discover the services they offer.

Get more information about MAP here.

Kayla MorganWriter

Kayla is the midday host on Detroit’s 105.1 The Bounce. She started her career in radio back in 2016 as an intern at another Detroit station and worked her way here. She's made stops in Knoxville, TN, Omaha, Ne and other places before returning to Detroit. She’s done almost everything in radio from promotions to web, creating content on social media, you name it. She’s a true Michigander, born and raised. So, you can catch her camping or vacationing up north to exploring the downtown Detroit or maybe even catching a sports game. During her free time, Kayla enjoys watching movies, roller-skating, crafting, and music festivals. She and her husband together dip into many of the great things Michigan has to offer. Together they also like to travel. A few hobbies of hers include wine and beer tastings, crafting, hiking, roller skating, movies, home improvement projects, gardening, and festivals. She’s always looking to take on more local events happening in the community. She loves connecting with the community. When writing, Kayla covers topics including lifestyle, pop culture, trending stories, hacks, and urban culture.