Last Updated: 05/02/2024.
Novi is a thriving suburban city northwest of Detroit, known for its exceptional shopping, dining, entertainment, parks, and attractions. Here is my extensive guide on the top Things to Do in Novi Michigan! Please join Let’s save Michigan to learn more through this article.
1. See Marine Life at SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium
Inside Twelve Oaks Mall, you’ll find SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium. This interactive aquarium lets you discover over 5,000 sea creatures in amazing exhibits.
Walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by a massive tank of fish, sharks, and sea turtles. See playful penguins and gentoo penguins go for a swim. Learn about Great Lakes ecology in the Michigan Lakes exhibit.
Don’t miss out on opportunities to feed and touch marine animals like starfish and sea anemones. SEA LIFE also has fun events like sleepovers and reserved penguin encounters.
2. Build and Play at LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Another top attraction at Twelve Oaks Mall is the LEGOLAND Discovery Center. This indoor theme park brings LEGO bricks to life with interactive play areas, rides, and attractions.
Try your building skills at the creative workshop tables stocked with LEGOs. Race LEGO cars down ramps at the Build & Test zone. Ride a LEGO carousel and other rides geared for kids 2-12 years old.
Must-see highlights include MINILAND – an impressive recreation of Detroit landmarks entirely from LEGOs. Battle on the life-sized LEGO Ninjago playground and test your laser-dodging skills on a dark ride.
3. Experience Hands-On Learning at Novi Public Library
Address: 45255 W 10 Mile Rd, Novi, MI 48375
The modern Novi Public Library offers an incredible array of resources and activities for all ages and interests.
Kids will love Playtime sessions introducing early literacy skills through play, music, and movement. Attend regular storytimes, Lego Club, and special events. Hang out in the kid-sized area and play with educational toys.
The library has over 100,000 books, movies, music, and more to borrow. With its diverse programs and materials, the Novi Public Library educates and entertains.
4. Watch Big-Name Concerts at DTE Energy Music Theatre
DTE Energy Music Theatre, located between Novi and Clarkston, is a top metro Detroit concert venue. This 15,000-seat amphitheatre hosts around 60 big-name music acts each summer in its outdoor setting.
Catch concerts by artists like Elton John, Luke Bryan, Dave Matthews Band, Kenny Chesney, and many more. Lawn seats let you spread out a blanket and take in the show.Reserved pavilion seats get you closer to the stage. The venue has food stands with classic concert fare.
Catching a summer show under the stars is an iconic Michigan summertime experience at DTE Energy Music Theatre.
5. Learn About Nature at Kensington Metropark Nature Center
Just 10 minutes from Novi in Milford, Kensington Metropark is a top spot to learn about Michigan wildlife and ecosystems. The park encompasses over 4,300 acres surrounding Kent Lake.
The Nature Center has excellent exhibits on the geology, plants, animals, and environmental aspects of the park. Say hello to the resident turtles, snakes, salamanders and frogs. Join a guided nature hike, pontoon boat tour, or attend a fun family program.
Outside, explore 7 miles of hiking trails that meander through wooded and wetland habitats. Rent bikes, boats, kayaks, and more to fully experience the park. With its trails, lake access and Nature Center, Kensington Metropark connects you to Michigan nature.
6. Catch Exciting Horse Shows at Novi Equestrian Center
Watch skilled horsemanship and competition at the Novi Equestrian Center. This premier equestrian facility hosts major horse shows, rodeos, and events year-round in its indoor arena.
Top shows include breeds like the Michigan Arabian Horse Show, Michigan Summer Circuit hunter/jumper shows, and breed showcases. The on-site concessions and heated lounge area let you relax and refuel between classes.
The covered arena provides great viewing for exciting equestrian competitions and performances in Novi. Check the calendar for upcoming shows to attend.
7. Pedal the Trail Around Walled Lake
For a family-friendly bike ride, hop on the Walled Lake Trail Loop. This paved 4.5 mile trail circles picturesque Walled Lake, offering smooth cruising through nice scenery.
The trail has several access points from Lakeshore Park in Novi. Pedal clockwise enjoying water views, homes, nature areas, and neighborhood parks around the glacial lake. There are a few road crossings to watch for.
Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy along the lake after your ride. The Walled Lake Trail Loop provides an easy, relaxing bike ride for all abilities.
8. Catch a Flick at Emagine Theatre
Address: 44425 W 12 Mile Rd, Novi, MI 48377
For a premium movie-going experience, visit Emagine Theatre. This modern theatre complex features stadium seating, wall-to-wall screens, and reclining seats with tray tables in each auditorium.
Catch the newest Hollywood releases, independent films, sports broadcasts, and special events on the big screen. The Z Lounge lobby bar lets you enjoy cocktails, wine and beer along with appetizers like sushi rolls, flatbreads, and sliders before the movie.
With its plush seating, first-class food and beverages, Emagine Theatre makes every visit feel like a VIP night out at the movies.
9. Shop Small in Downtown Novi
Discover downtown Novi’s charming historic district along Main Street. Several blocks of quaint storefronts house boutique shops, restaurants, and businesses in Victorian-style buildings.
Browse women’s clothing, gifts, and artisan items at spots like Anthropologie, Charming Charlie, and Beveled Edge. Pick up baked goods, flowers, and souvenirs as mementos.
Grab lunch between shopping at popular eateries like Rojo Mexican Bistro, Red Olive Restaurant, and Brann’s Sizzlin’ Steak & Sports. Don’t forget to glimpse the town’s original architecture as you explore downtown Novi.
10. Splash Down Waterslides at Great Wolf Lodge
Just across the street from Twelve Oaks Mall, Great Wolf Lodge offers indoor water park fun and family-friendly suites. The main attraction is the 83,000 square foot indoor water park, kept warm at a toasty 84 degrees year-round.
Kids and adults alike will love plunging down waterslides like Coyote Canyon, racing tubes on Alberta Falls, and playing in the FORT water fort treehouse. Enjoy leisurely float rides and activities in the Cub Paw Pool. Daily water park passes start at $59.
Overnight stays include suites with bunk beds, in-room dining, exclusive kids programming, and more. With its thrilling slides and family entertainment, Great Wolf Lodge provides water park excitement without leaving town.
11. Sip Local Wine and Cider on the Novi Wine Trail
Novi makes the perfect home base for exploring nearby wineries and cideries on the Novi Wine Trail. Within 20 minutes, visit excellent local tasting rooms.
In Milford, take in the rustic farm charm of Sanders Cellars and Tiburon Golf Club & Winery. Head to Northville Wine & Chocolates and Valentines Distilling Co. for creative wine and spirits. In South Lyon, enjoy Hard Cider and pizza at B Nektar Meadery & Taproom.
Most tasting rooms don’t charge for wine flights and tours. Spending the day sipping through Novi’s neighboring wineries and cideries makes for a delicious outing!
12. Bounce and Play at AirTime Trampoline Park
For high-flying family fun, visit AirTime Trampoline Park. The cavernous indoor park features interconnected trampolines forming courts, runways, climbing walls and pits to jump in.
Bounce freely in the Open Jump area. Challenge friends to trampoline dodgeball or basketball. Do flips into the foam pit. Little kids have their own dedicated courts sized just for them. Events like Toddler Time add supervision.
AirTime has an arcade, cafe, and private party rooms to celebrate birthdays and events. With endless bouncy entertainment, AirTime Trampoline Park makes an energetic activity for all ages.
13. Cheer on the Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena – Things to Do in Novi Michigan
Catch an exhilarating Detroit Red Wings hockey game just 30 minutes away in downtown Detroit. The Wings play home games at the state-of-the-art Little Caesars Arena.
With a capacity of 20,000, you’ll thrill to the fast-paced action as the Wings take on rivals with hard hits and breakaway goals. Join the crowd going wild for goals scored on the ice. Watch the superb athletes make impossible plays look effortless.
As your Novi adventure draws to a close, you’ll leave with a kaleidoscope of memories. From diving into the underwater wonders of SEA LIFE Michigan to cheering for the Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena, Novi has offered something for every explorer. Whether you built your dream creation at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, soaked up the beauty of Kensington Metropark, or indulged in retail therapy downtown, the city has undoubtedly woven its magic around you.
But Novi’s story doesn’t end here. This vibrant city constantly reinvents itself, offering new experiences with every visit. So, bookmark this list of “Top 13 Fun Things to Do in Novi, Michigan,” revisit our recommendations, and discover hidden gems waiting to be unearthed. Novi awaits your return, ready to surprise and enchant you once again.
The city shines with premier attractions for visitors and locals alike. This Detroit hotspot will exceed your expectations!
