The Learning Experience - Troy

Surround yourself with the beauty and tranquility of nature when you visit the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens. The outdoor gardens are open for free to the public, although the conservatory itself requires an admission fee. Outside, you can wander around over a dozen different gardens, including a rock garden and a labyrinth, as well as walk along five different nature trails. And there’s even more on the inside!

Lace up your roller skates or rollerblades and head on over to the Northland Roller Rink, one of Detroit’s largest roller rinks, for a fun time. Skate during the public sessions to some of your favorite oldies as well as a few of the more current songs. Or, opt for a skating class or laser tag game.

Learn about the role the waterways played in shaping Detroit and vice versa at the Dossin Great Lakes Museum in Belle Isle Park. This special interest maritime museum outlines the history of ships and water travel along the Great Lakes and the Detroit River. You’ll be able to get up close to artifacts from the 1800s as you explore this ship-themed building.

Taste a slice of Vegas nightlife without ever leaving Detroit when you go to the Greektown Casino where the motto is “play, dine and stay.” One of Motor City’s three casino resort hotels, this particular casino is located in the fun and fascinating Greektown District. Test your luck at the table games or slots, stuff yourself at the best restaurants, take advantage of weekly drink specials and spend the night in a luxurious room.