Back to school doesn't have to spell the end of family fun. Keep the entertainment going at one of these delightful spots around Livingston County that are recommended by our real estate agents.

• Howell Nature Center - 1005 Triangle Lake Rd., Howell, MI 48843
  Spend a day in a "classroom" of a different type with a visit to Howell Nature Center. Located on the shores of Pleasant Lake, the 230 acres of woods and wetlands are home to more than 70 native Michigan birds, mammals, and reptiles at Wild Wonders Wildlife Park. Kids interact with their surroundings by splashing in a waterfall, digging in sand dunes, and climbing a Spider Web in Alexandria's NatureScape, or get a bird's-eye view from the 7,000-square-foot Tree House. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily, and tickets are $9 for adults and $7 for ages 3-17.
  
  
• Castaway Play Cafe - 1800 N. Burkart Rd., Howell, MI 48855
  Physical fitness is just as important as mental fitness. Kids have so much fun at Castaway Play Cafe that they don't even realize they're also getting a good workout. The five-level play structure, the largest in the state, includes four giant slides, a suspension bridge, and a foam jungle. Other activities include laser tag, a sports simulator, an arcade with 50+ classic games, and Create-A-Pal, where kids can build their own stuffed animal. The cafe menu features nachos, pizza, chicken tenders, and other family favorites. Castaway Play Cafe is open 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday. Visit the website for pricing.
  
  
• Tap-In's Golf - 4444 E. Grand River Ave., Howell, MI 48843
  Hold your own family tournament in one of the outdoor bays or on the putt-putt course at Tap In's Golf. Choose your game from more than 20 covered driving range bays or six luxury bays with comfy seating and dedicated food and beverage service. The entire outdoor facility is heated, but four indoor simulator bays are available if the weather doesn't cooperate. Order from a menu of tacos, wraps, chicken wings, nachos, and salads, as well as a full selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Hours are 11 a.m. - midnight Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - midnight Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday. Visit the website for pricing.
  
  
• Carousel Acres Petting Farm - 12749 Nine Mile Rd., South Lyon, MI 48178
  Get up close and personal with some of the cutest critters around at Carousel Acres Petting Farm. Maine Coon cats, horses, emus, and reindeer are just some of the animals you'll encounter on the family-owned farm. Treat your little one to a birthday party they'll never forget with a private room, pony rides, a life-size playhouse, and a tour of the farm for up to 45 guests. Hours are 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays. Admission is $10 for ages one and up.
  
  
• Brighton Imagination Station - 400 Cedar St., Brighton, MI 48116
  Tell the kids to leave the screens at home and give their creativity a workout at the Brighton Imagination Station. This year marks the 30th anniversary of this unique playground, centered around a 10,000-square-foot wooden structure designed as a castle maze, that was built by more than 1,300 community volunteers. Stroll around beautiful Mill Pond and cross the Tridge to a half-mile nature walkway. The park is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free.

Why not plan your outings around viewings of Livingston County homes for sale? Contact us for information on the latest listings.