Parks-
Winter in Grosse Pointe doesn’t have to be boring or expensive, even for students just looking for a quick weekend adventure. Belle Isle is a great place to start. The aquarium is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and admission is free, so you can wander among the fish and other sea creatures without worrying about getting your money’s worth. If you are looking for some more local park options, Windmill Pointe Park is perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Any 2 p.m. movie costs only seven dollars, and the 7 p.m. show is $10. This is super affordable for a casual and comfy hangout with friends. However, If you’re craving some fresh air, Patterson Park has great sledding hills and an ice skating rink along with two dollar hot coco open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and both are free. It’s perfect for the kind of winter day where you can bundle up, play outside and enjoy the winter season in Grosse Pointe.
Downtown-
For a more downtown Detroit experience, Campus Martius is a must. The ice rink is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays with tickets at just $12. Skating downtown with the lights, the city energy and the hustle of people all around make it feel so lively. After your skate, the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA) is just a short walk away and completely free to explore. Open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fridays until 9 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the DIA has everything from classic paintings to new modern exhibits. Walking through the galleries, you can get inspired while enjoying the quiet contrast to the buzz of downtown.
POST-
If the DIA leaves you wanting to get in touch with your inner artist, The Post is the perfect place to make something of your own. Weekend workshops, like the Matisse-style paper collage sessions on Jan. 11 and March 15 from 2 to 5 p.m., cost $20 and include all materials and guidance from experienced instructors. Participants are encouraged to experience with color, shape and texture and make their piece unique to themselves. Even if you have never tried this type of art before, the drop in style makes it easy to join without pressure. The workshops are a fun way to spend time with friends, explore a creative side and leave with a finished piece you made yourself. If you’re interested in a less expensive option, The Post also hosts free knitting nights. These dates vary, so be sure to check their website for updated schedules and details.
