The Detroit Institute of Arts with kids: a short route and tips
Quick answer
With kids, the DIA works best as a 60–90 minute visit: spot machines and cars in Diego Rivera's murals, find the Babylonian dragon, see the armour and mummies and finish with Bruegel's The Wedding Dance. It's free for families living in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties.
Hours and prices checked on · Official website
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A 75-minute family route
- 1
0:00 · Rivera Court
Machine hunt in the murals
Challenge: find the car, the plane and the giant factory press.
- 2
0:20 · Ancient art
The Babylonian dragon and the mummies
A 2,600-year-old dragon and the art of ancient Egypt.
- 3
0:40 · Great Hall
Armour
Knights in full armour: always a hit.
- 4
0:55 · European painting
Bruegel's The Wedding Dance
Count the dancers and find the one who's tripped or wandered off.
Practical tips
- Check the official site: there are family activities and temporary gallery closures.
- The museum is stroller-accessible and has a café.
- With AnyArt kids point at a painting and hear its story.
Frequently asked questions
Do kids pay at the DIA?
Wayne, Oakland and Macomb residents get in free. Others should check children's rates on dia.org.
Is it a good museum for kids?
Yes, with a short visit focused on the murals, the dragon and the armour.
Are there family activities?
The museum runs family programmes; see the official calendar.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes, the building is accessible.