Ideas for Activities Grandparents Can Share with Grandchildren in the Midwest

Many of my happier moments as a child were spent with grandparents. From trips to the zoo to attending baseball games, we shared many great days together. The most memorable activities were those that were unique and not of an everyday variety. Some of them were common events, but not things that are typically shared between grandparents and grandchildren. Here are several unique activities to share with your grandchildren.

Kirtland, Ohio Lake Farmpark: Slightly east of Cleveland, Lake Farmpark is a great place for grandparents and kids. Lake Farmpark always has something for children to do. Several of the main attractions at Lake Farmpark include: 50 breeds of livestock, Plant Science Center, Woodland Center, Field Crop, cow milking, and much more. For more information check out their website. Admission is only $6 for adults and $4 for children between the ages of 2-11.

Shipshewana, Indiana: Shipshewana is home of the largest flea market in the Midwest. 20,000 people can be seen in a day at this fantastic flea market. On Wednesdays there is an antique auction where many unique finds occur. This is a unique experience and perfect for a day of searching through little treasures and spending time together. For more information check here. For another close by adventure visit the Essenhaus Amish Style restaurant in Middlebury and visit the Deutsch Kase Haus Amish style cheese factory, also in Middlebury. These three stops will make for a very memorable trip with your grandchildren.

Hickory Corners, Michigan Gilmore Car Museum: This specific museum is a perfect day trip destination in a quiet town that is hidden in mid-Michigan. They often have very rare cars from movies and even from celebrities. Hosted solely in barns, this is a very unique car themed museum. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for students, and free for ages 6 and under. Definitely worth the trip for a child that is interested in cars. Visit GilmoreCarMuseum.org for more information.

Peoria, Illinois March Madness: If your grandson or granddaughter is a sports fan, there is no bigger event in the Midwest than the original March Madness, held in Peoria, Illinois. You will see many rising stars and future NBA players in the Illinois High School State Championships. Many tourists and sports fans make the trip down to watch some of the most talented high school players in a hotbed for basketball. Check the IHSA March Madness page for more information. Tickets can be purchased for around $10 a piece, even to the final games of the State Tournaments.

Portage, Michigan Celery Flats:The Celery Flats were created by Dutch immigrants who turned the land into fields to grow celery in. The Flats now include a 1856 schoolhouse, 5 mile trail, tours, The Hayloft Theatre, The Celery Flats Amphitheatre, and canoe rentals on the portage creek. This is a secret destination that is enjoyed by the surrounding community and some tourists. Entry to the trail is free while tours and other activities vary in price. Check out their website for more information: Portage Michigan Celery Flats