The Henry Ford Museum050

Celebrate American's rich history at Henry Ford Museum. Road Trip America calls it "one of the world's greatest repositories of cool stuff." That it is.

There are planes and trains and, of course, automobiles. Lincoln's "Death Chair" is there, and so is the Rosa Parks bus and Thomas Edison's test-tubed last breath. One of just two IMAX Dome theaters in metro Detroit is located here.

There's a lot of historical Americana to take in here, so take your time. Don't worry, there are plenty of places for kids to play and adults to rest.

If not opting for the Parents Connect Local Tip below, check out the cafeteria-style Michigan Cafe, which serves up good-priced, light items like salads and sandwiches and regional selections like Hamtramck Cabbage Rolls and Motown Pulled Pork. You'll also find Faygo pop, Sanders Hot Fudge Cream Puffs, and Vernors Pound Cake on the menu.

The Henry Ford has some terrific gift shops that carry handcrafted glassware and pottery made by the center's own artisans, nostalgic toys and games, and souvenirs.

The museum offers week-long day camps during the summer for kids in second through eighth grades, each with its own theme and activities, as well as a tech camp for sixth through eighth graders that focuses on robotics.

In addition to lots of other discounts and perks, annual family memberships at The Henry Ford ($125) include admission to the neighboring Greenfield Village - but don't think your family can handle both of these wonders in one day!