Take a full-sized school bus and convert it into a mobile gym, complete with padded walls and floors, and what have you got? The ABC Tumblebus. Yes, it sounds nuts, but the kids sure love it.

Classes are offered for children ages 2-1/2 through school-age, and are taught by certified instructors. Call for current class schedule.

For $200, parents can throw a Tumblebus party, complete with one hour of tumbling and party games; balloons, candy, and party favors; and a Tumblebus t-shirt for the birthday kid. Invitations are provided, and a keepsake photo is taken. Maximum: 15 children. Online reservations are required.

For an extra fee, a 13' x 15' inflatable bus (moonbounce) is available. Regularly scheduled gymnastics classes can also be arranged.

Take a full-sized school bus and convert it into a mobile gym, complete with padded walls and floors, and what have you got? The ABC Tumblebus. Yes, it sounds nuts, but the kids sure love it.

Classes are offered for children ages 2-1/2 through school-age, and are taught by certified instructors. Call for current class schedule.

For $200, parents can throw a Tumblebus party, complete with one hour of tumbling and party games; balloons, candy, and party favors; and a Tumblebus t-shirt for the birthday kid. Invitations are provided, and a keepsake photo is taken. Maximum: 15 children. Online reservations are required.

For an extra fee, a 13' x 15' inflatable bus (moonbounce) is available. Regularly scheduled gymnastics classes can also be arranged.

Utilizing fun classes, imaginative teachers, and creative materials, Abrakadoodle inspires the artist in every child. The program meets both the National and State Standards for visual arts education. Classes are developmentally appropriate and introduce kids to color, texture, shape, and creativity.

Classes are held at various locations throughout greater Ann Arbor - in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Saline, Dexter, Chelsea, South Lyon, and Whitmore Lake. Call for current pricing and class locations.

Birthday Party packages are available, and include a visit from Splat, the Abrakadoodle stuffed toy mascot, arty gift bags for all the children, a special arty gift for the birthday child, and a Remarkable Art Activity Abrakadoodle-style that lasts about one hour. At the end, artwork is framed for each child to take home as a treasured keepsake.

Utilizing fun classes, imaginative teachers, and creative materials, Abrakadoodle inspires the artist in every child. The program meets both the National and State Standards for visual arts education. Classes are developmentally appropriate and introduce kids to color, texture, shape, and creativity.

Classes are held at various locations throughout Wayne County - in Canton, Northville, Plymouth, Wayne, Westland, Garden City, Livonia, Belleville, and Van Buren Township. Call for current pricing and class locations.

Birthday Party packages are available, and include a visit from Splat, the Abrakadoodle stuffed toy mascot, arty gift bags for all the children, a special arty gift for the birthday child, and a Remarkable Art Activity Abrakadoodle-style that lasts about one hour. At the end, artwork is framed for each child to take home as a treasured keepsake.

All World Gymnastics is a 20,000-square-foot gymnastics facility where kids can run, jump on trampolines, play on tumble tracks and foam pits, and more.

All World offers classes for parents and tots, as well as for older kids. Competitive-level classes are available for children up to age 10.

The public can rent the space for birthday parties, sleepovers, story times, and any gym-hosted parties.

All World Gymnastics is a 20,000-square-foot gymnastics facility where kids can run, jump on trampolines, play on tumble tracks and foam pits, and more.

All World offers classes for parents and tots, as well as for older kids. Competitive-level classes are available for children up to age 10.

The public can rent the space for birthday parties, sleepovers, story times, and any gym-hosted parties.

Opened in 2005, the Arab American National Museum celebrates and preserves the culture, contributions, and history of Arab Americans.

An auditorium, classrooms and other meeting rooms, and outdoor courtyard and patio are available to rent for private parties or gatherings.

Have fun and get creative at this pottery painting and bead studio. Artfully Yours offers workshops and classes, kids camps, and special programs for scouts.

The studio welcomes birthday parties, field trips, and bridal showers.

Arts & Scraps is a nonprofit organization that recycles industrial scraps to provide children with affordable and creative arts and crafts learning experiences. In addition to public shopping times, the organization also provides programs for scouts and does birthday parties.

The ScrapMobile, a 26-foot bus loaded with recycled materials and activities, comes to your location. Call or check the website for details.

Arts & Scraps is always looking for volunteers. Children as young as age six can come in with a parent and help pack kits and prepare materials or families can check the website for other volunteer opportunities throughout the metro area.

Located inside Joe Dumars Fieldhouse, the tropical-themed Bayou Adventure features an indoor miniature golf course, 25-foot rock climbing wall, rope climbing, a 33-foot inflatable slide, laser tag, and a large arcade.

Miniature golf costs $6 for 18 holes; climbing wall is $6 for two climbs; laser tag is $6 for two games; titanic slide is $4 for two slides or $6 for unlimited slides; high ropes course is $6 (must be 48 inches tall).

Purchase a Bayou Adventure Pack for $25 (this includes 18 holes of miniature golf, two wall climbs, two games of laser tag, unlimited slides, high ropes course, and eight arcade tokens).

Party packages are available, including food and beverages and use of certain features of the play area, at $13.95/person and up. Minimum of 10 people. Advance reservations and deposit required.

Buzz into Bee's Knees in downtown Northville and create your own ceramic pieces. The shop carries ready-to-paint plates, bowls, piggy banks, and tiles.

Birthday party deals can be set up; call to discuss the options.

Imagine a 985-acre historic island park with a beach, conservatory, and lighthouse on an island in downtown Detroit. First-time visitors to the city are shocked that such a jewel exists. But metro Detroiters know Belle Isle well and are proud of its offerings.

Travel across its 1/2-mile bridge and make a stop at the Scott Fountain first. Built in 1925 out of white marble, dozens of lions, dolphins, and turtles grace the fountain. Don't forget some spare change to hand over to your little wishers.

Move on to the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory (open every day 10am-5pm), home to hundreds of cacti, ferns, and palms. Be sure to bring your camera - this is a beautiful place to capture images of your children amongst the flowers and plants.

Then check out the world's largest collection of scale-model Great Lakes ships at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum (open Sat-Sun 10am-4pm).

Due to budget issues, the zoo and aquarium are now closed (hopefully not for good), but there is much more to do here. There's a giant slide and playscape near the beach, tennis courts, and lots of areas for biking, walking, or strolling.

In the summertime, Belle Isle comes alive with ballplayers, joggers, and golfers (there is a nine-hole course and driving range on the island). Families and the smells of their BBQs fill the park, fishermen line the piers, and at the end of the day cars line up on the west side of the island to get a good sunset view.

Cool facts: The American Indians called the island Wah-nah-be-zee (White Swan). The French settlers placed wild pigs on the island and its named changed to Island of the Hogs. The park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the man who drew up the plans for that little ol' tract of trees known as Central Park in New York City. Famed architect Albert Kahn patterned the conservatory after Thomas Jefferson's Monticello.

To reserve a picnic shelter, call 313.852.4076.

To help preserve the park for future generations, call the Friends of Belle Isle at 313.331.7760.

The Beverly Hills Club offers a wide variety of programs for families. The club has an indoor pool, tennis courts, fitness room, and a children's section with a play structure, moonwalk, video games, and more.

Kids' classes are offered in aerobics, baseball, basketball, dance, football, martial arts, swimming, tennis, and yoga. Parent/tot classes are also available.

A latchkey program offers the chance for supervised afterschool fun. Day camps give kids a great place to hang out during the summer and on vacation days.

Both members and nonmembers may hold a party at the BHC.

Hours are seasonal:

Labor Day to Memorial Day: Mon-Thu 5:30am-11pm; Fri 5:30am-10pm; Sat 6:30am-9:30pm; Sun 7am-8:30pm.


Memorial Day to Labor Day: Mon-Fri 5:30am-11pm; Fri 5:30am-11pm; Sat 6:30am-8pm; Sun 7am-7pm

Bloomer Park is a great place for bikers and hikers, with miles of trails that run throughout the park. If you're feeling adventurous, try the Velodrome, a 1/8-mile oval wooden bike track (open seasonally).

Pack a meal and picnic at Bloomer - there are four shelters for large gatherings. One is 1930s stone and wood timber building complete with a kitchen, fireplace, and restrooms. Give the park a ring to find out how you can rent this or the other shelters.

There are numerous kids' play areas, but you'll find a large playscape and sandbox near the Stone Shelter.

Winter activities include sledding (there are three runs) and cross-country skiing (the trails are not groomed).

Bloomfield Gymnastics offers gymnastics programs for boys and girls of all ages (18 months to 18 years). Classes include parent-tot, preschool, progressive boys and girls, and cheerleading/tumbling.

The center offers fun activities such as Open Gym, monthly sleepovers, field trips, and birthday parties. There's also an on-site pro shop.

In addition to open bounce hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Bobby's Bouncers offers birthday party packages that include pizza and soda for 20 guests. Party attendees play for an hour and 15 minutes and then go into the party room for the last 45 minutes to have pizza, cake, and open presents. Paper products, invitations, and balloon decorations are included.

Inflatables and games include a giant slide, an obstacle course, Mega Dinozone with a rock climb, Basketball Challenge, Air Hockey, Dome Hockey, Play Station, and X-Box - with a large selection of games.

A full line of party rental equipment can either be picked up or delivered, as well.

In addition to open bounce hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Bobby's Bouncers offers birthday party packages that include pizza and soda for 20 guests. Party attendees play for an hour and 15 minutes and then go into the party room for the last 45 minutes to have pizza, cake, and open presents. Paper products, invitations, and balloon decorations are included.

Inflatables and games include a giant slide, an obstacle course, Mega Dinozone with a rock climb, Basketball Challenge, Air Hockey, Dome Hockey, Play Station, and X-Box - with a large selection of games.

A full line of party rental equipment can either be picked up or delivered, as well.

In addition to open bounce hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Bobby's Bouncers offers birthday party packages that include pizza and soda for 20 guests. Party attendees play for an hour and 15 minutes and then go into the party room for the last 45 minutes to have pizza, cake, and open presents. Paper products, invitations, and balloon decorations are included.

Inflatables and games include a giant slide, an obstacle course, Mega Dinozone with a rock climb, Basketball Challenge, Air Hockey, Dome Hockey, Play Station, and X-Box - with a large selection of games.

A full line of party rental equipment can either be picked up or delivered, as well.

In addition to open bounce hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Bobby's Bouncers offers birthday party packages that include pizza and soda for 20 guests. Party attendees play for an hour and 15 minutes and then go into the party room for the last 45 minutes to have pizza, cake, and open presents. Paper products, invitations, and balloon decorations are included.

Inflatables and games include a giant slide, an obstacle course, Mega Dinozone with a rock climb, Basketball Challenge, Air Hockey, Dome Hockey, Play Station, and X-Box - with a large selection of games.

A full line of party rental equipment can either be picked up or delivered, as well.

This bowling hall, like the other Community Bowling Centers, has a variety of birthday party packages.

The most popular, which starts at $10.95/child, includes one hour of bowling, one hour in a party area, hot dogs and pop, bowling-themed paper products, invitations, favors, party balloons, bowling pin for the birthday child, a host/hostess, and future free game passes.

Add-ons include pizza, birthday cake and ice cream, glow jewelry, or a birthday shirt for the guest of honor that all party-goers help decorate.

Bonaventure is a family-focused skating center that offers lessons for preschoolers, beginning skaters, adults, and speedskaters.

Bonaventure offers a birthday party package for $125. It includes pizza, soft drink, ice cream cup, invitations, and place settings. A cake can be brought in.

BounceU, a climate-controlled bounce arena, features arcade games and multiple rooms of interactive, inflatable play equipment, such as giant slides, obstacle courses, and no-harm boxing rings.

Adults and non-walking infants get in free for open play times. Reservations are required, as space is limited.

Parties: BounceU's staff-hosted packages include private bounce time, use of a private room for treats and opening gifts, and a t-shirt for the birthday child. Optional extras include pizza and drinks, sandwiches, veggie trays, dessert trays, goodie bags, balloons, and more.

Bouncin' Kidz is an 11,000-square-foot indoor inflatable party place featuring giant inflatables and open bounce times for all ages and toddler times.

Bounce parties are available seven days a week and range from $150 to $265 for up to 25 guests. The price includes 90 minutes of bounce time; 45 minutes in a party room; plates, cups, and napkins; party invitations; and a gift for the birthday child. Pizza, desserts, and beverages are available for an additional charge. Other unique items, such as cotton candy, nachos, and slushies, can also be arranged. Semi-private parties also are available during any open bounce or toddler session.

Bouncin' Kidz offers field trips and fundraisers, and the entire facility can be rented out for private parties. The company also rents out moonwalks, giant slides, obstacle courses, concessions, tents, tables, chairs, and carnival games.

This bowling hall, like the other Community Bowling Centers, has a variety of birthday party packages.

The most popular, which starts at $10.95/child, includes one hour of bowling, one hour in a party area, hot dogs and pop, bowling-themed paper products, invitations, favors, party balloons, bowling pin for the birthday child, a host/hostess, and future free game passes.

Add-ons include pizza, birthday cake and ice cream, glow jewelry, or a birthday shirt for the guest of honor that all party-goers help decorate.

Enjoy rock and bowl nights, complete with cosmic lights and party music, Fridays and Saturdays 11:30pm-2am.

BRAVO! is a casual, white-tablecloth eatery that should please parents and kids alike. The Americanized Italian food is delicious, and kids are supplied with crayons and activity booklets (tables are covered with a thick paper "table cloth" for young doodlers).

The restaurant offers typical kids' fare like chicken fingers, pizza, and mac and cheese, but it also has a "Grande Kids" menu, called "Meals for Small Adults," with such offerings as grilled chicken, grilled salmon, and fried shrimp. BRAVO! also offers such healthy sides as an insalado bambino, a junior ceasar salad, and cup of fresh fruit.

There are changing tables in both the women's and men's bathrooms, and high chairs and boosters are available.

Semi-private party rooms are available. Reservations are accepted.

BRAVO! is a casual, white-tablecloth eatery that should please parents and kids alike. The Americanized Italian food is delicious, and kids are supplied with crayons and activity booklets (tables are covered with a thick paper "table cloth" for young doodlers).

The restaurant offers typical kids' fare like chicken fingers, pizza, and mac and cheese, but it also has a "Grande Kids" menu, called "Meals for Small Adults," with such offerings as grilled chicken, grilled salmon, and fried shrimp. BRAVO! also offers such healthy sides as an insalado bambino, a junior ceasar salad, and cup of fresh fruit.

There are changing tables in both the women's and men's bathrooms, and high chairs and boosters are available.

Semi-private party rooms are available. Reservations are accepted.

Bronco Lanes has a variety of birthday party packages. The most popular, which starts at $10.95/child, includes one hour of bowling, one hour in a party area, hot dogs and pop, bowling-themed paper products, invitations, favors, party balloons, bowling pin for the birthday child, a host/hostess, and future free game passes.

Add-ons include pizza, birthday cake and ice cream, glow jewelry, or a birthday shirt for the guest of honor that all party-goers help decorate.

Bowl for just $1 Mon-Fri between 12n-5pm!

As far as Detroit icons go, Buddy's is right up there with Sanders, Stroh's, and "The Big Three." In 1946, when just a neighborhood tavern on the east side of Detroit, Buddy's introduced to the city the deep-dish pizza. And Detroiters have been hooked ever since!

Buddy's now modern toppings such as BBQ chicken, feta cheese, and zucchini. In the last few years, the menu has been greatly expanded, including house-baked pastas, burgers, sandwiches, and fresh soups and salads.

Party reservations can be taken at all of the full-service locations, and Buddy's offers a good variety of take-out party trays.

On various eves, Buddy's has clown entertainers like Lovely and Pebbles who greet the children and make balloon animals. Call ahead to check on times and locations.

As far as Detroit icons go, Buddy's is right up there with Sanders, Stroh's, and "The Big Three." In 1946, when just a neighborhood tavern on the east side of Detroit, Buddy's introduced to the city the deep-dish pizza. And Detroiters have been hooked ever since!

Buddy's now modern toppings such as BBQ chicken, feta cheese, and zucchini. In the last few years, the menu has been greatly expanded, including house-baked pastas, burgers, sandwiches, and fresh soups and salads.

Party reservations can be taken at all of the full-service locations, and Buddy's offers a good variety of take-out party trays.

On various eves, Buddy's has clown entertainers like Lovely and Pebbles who greet the children and make balloon animals. Call ahead to check on times and locations.

As far as Detroit icons go, Buddy's is right up there with Sanders, Stroh's, and "The Big Three." In 1946, when just a neighborhood tavern on the east side of Detroit, Buddy's introduced to the city the deep-dish pizza. And Detroiters have been hooked ever since!

Buddy's now modern toppings such as BBQ chicken, feta cheese, and zucchini. In the last few years, the menu has been greatly expanded, including house-baked pastas, burgers, sandwiches, and fresh soups and salads.

Party reservations can be taken at all of the full-service locations, and Buddy's offers a good variety of take-out party trays.

On various eves, Buddy's has clown entertainers like Lovely and Pebbles who greet the children and make balloon animals. Call ahead to check on times and locations.

As far as Detroit icons go, Buddy's is right up there with Sanders, Stroh's, and "The Big Three." In 1946, when just a neighborhood tavern on the east side of Detroit, Buddy's introduced to the city the deep-dish pizza. And Detroiters have been hooked ever since!

Buddy's now modern toppings such as BBQ chicken, feta cheese, and zucchini. In the last few years, the menu has been greatly expanded, including house-baked pastas, burgers, sandwiches, and fresh soups and salads.

Party reservations can be taken at all of the full-service locations, and Buddy's offers a good variety of take-out party trays.

On various eves, Buddy's has clown entertainers like Lovely and Pebbles who greet the children and make balloon animals. Call ahead to check on times and locations.

As far as Detroit icons go, Buddy's is right up there with Sanders, Stroh's, and "The Big Three." In 1946, when just a neighborhood tavern on the east side of Detroit, Buddy's introduced to the city the deep-dish pizza. And Detroiters have been hooked ever since!

Buddy's now modern toppings such as BBQ chicken, feta cheese, and zucchini. In the last few years, the menu has been greatly expanded, including house-baked pastas, burgers, sandwiches, and fresh soups and salads.

Party reservations can be taken at all of the full-service locations, and Buddy's offers a good variety of take-out party trays.

On various eves, Buddy's has clown entertainers like Lovely and Pebbles who greet the children and make balloon animals. Call ahead to check on times and locations.

As far as Detroit icons go, Buddy's is right up there with Sanders, Stroh's, and "The Big Three." In 1946, when just a neighborhood tavern on the east side of Detroit, Buddy's introduced to the city the deep-dish pizza. And Detroiters have been hooked ever since!

Buddy's now modern toppings such as BBQ chicken, feta cheese, and zucchini. In the last few years, the menu has been greatly expanded, including house-baked pastas, burgers, sandwiches, and fresh soups and salads.

Party reservations can be taken at all of the full-service locations, and Buddy's offers a good variety of take-out party trays.

On various eves, Buddy's has clown entertainers like Lovely and Pebbles who greet the children and make balloon animals. Call ahead to check on times and locations.

As far as Detroit icons go, Buddy's is right up there with Sanders, Stroh's, and "The Big Three." In 1946, when just a neighborhood tavern on the east side of Detroit, Buddy's introduced to the city the deep-dish pizza. And Detroiters have been hooked ever since!

Buddy's now modern toppings such as BBQ chicken, feta cheese, and zucchini. In the last few years, the menu has been greatly expanded, including house-baked pastas, burgers, sandwiches, and fresh soups and salads.

Party reservations can be taken at all of the full-service locations, and Buddy's offers a good variety of take-out party trays.

On various eves, Buddy's has clown entertainers like Lovely and Pebbles who greet the children and make balloon animals. Call ahead to check on times and locations.