Remember when the kids were little and were super happy to go pretty much anywhere? To the park and playground or the zoo or a parking lot carnival? Once they hit the teen years it may seem like its impossible to entice them to do anything with the family. Because, you know, everything’s lame. Or boring. We can help. A visit to Michigan’s capital city of Lansing can include some great recreation for the young adults in your family.

Here are quite a few ideas that we think they will enjoy. Pay no attention to the eye rolls, those just come with the territory.

High Caliber Karting
So many cool things to do, so little time. Choose from high speed (up to 50 mph!) indoor go karting that will challenge both young and old. Don't miss the Combat Karting, with the only technology in the US that gives you a feeling that you're playing Mario Kart in real life. Also popular is the rage room. Smash to bits china, electronics and all kinds of stuff. We have to admit that it's pretty therapeutic. Plus there's a great arcade with a race car simulator, pocket soccer and stuff the whole family will enjoy. Opening any day now are the fowling (think football x bowling) alleys and nerf gun wars area that will sure to please.

Zap Zone
This multi-level laser tag facility is a great family activity. Even the adults and little ones love to play hide and seek and laser each other. It gives everyone a workout plus there's Glo Golf and bumper cars that you're never too old to do. 

Footgolf
Trying to get that regulation soccer ball into the hole is harder than you think. They may just show you up with their foot skills. Choose from Royal Scot Golf or The Falcon courses. Royal Scot Footgolf has 18 holes, with two sets of tees to match any skill level. Nine holes takes approximately an hour while 18 holes is about two hours. You can bring your own soccer ball or rent one from Royal Scot for $5. At The Falcon, there are nine holes. As in golf you have to watch out for the hills and valleys like you would for a regular game of golf.

River Town Adventures
Choose from multiple adventures that last from 1-1 ½ hours to five hours long. Rent single or tandem kayaks (or canoes, or paddleboards) There are multiple downriver excursions that will satisfy beginners and experienced paddlers. This way, you get to experience the beauty of the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers.

Little Hawk Putting Course
It doesn't matter your skill level in golf, this is an 18-hole putting course with natural bent grass, water hazards, sand traps and great rolling terrain that will challenge the veteran golfer and introduce the inexperienced golfer. Everyone needs to practice and brush up on their short game. This is perfect for that. 

Lansing Lugnuts
An evening spent watching (minor league) baseball with the family, being able to hang out on the 360 degree concourse and find something good to eat and a fireworks finale is a great way to end the day when you visit Greater Lansing. P.S. During the seventh inning stretch it's allowable to  embarrass them by belting out "Take Me Out to the Ballgame." Really. It's okay.

The Grid
Although this is an arcade and bar, Pre-pandemic, this was a 21+ venue with some Family Sundays. Currently, all ages are welcome at all time. The only stipulation is individuals under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. They have great mocktail offerings and you can bring in outside food.

Michigan State University
Go Green! Maybe your teen has been thinking about attending MSU. Prep your future Spartan with a tour of campus. There’s so much to explore. Take in a show at Wharton Center, grab an ice cream cone at MSU Dairy Store, etc. Tickets to a Spartan game are always a great idea. Whether its a football, basketball or hockey game you're attending, a Spartan athletic event never fails to ellicit a smile. Surrounded by the energy of the crowd, this is a winning ticket!

If you're looking to make it truly the perfect weekend away then check out all the hotel options in Greater Lansing. 

There's no need for your teen to feel underwhelmed with a family getaway. Make it enjoyable for everyone in the family. But the eye rolls? We can't help you with that.