Camps
Student Summer Camps
Enroll your children or grandchildren into a summer day camp today! At the Alden B. Dow Home & Studio, campers explore, discover, and create, through interactive, hands-on activities, fostering creativity and opening opportunities for new friendships alike. Each session runs Monday-Thursday of their designated week, concluding with an open house where campers can share their experiences with family and friends. The cost is $190 per camp, and there are scholarships available for children’s camps.
*Camp I is not a prerequisite for Camp II.
Architecture Camp I & II for 4th-6th Grade
Campers focus on expanding their understanding of architecture through concepts, visual experience, and activities. They will create their own miniature structure, explore the Home & Studio top to bottom, plus visit an additional local structure to deepen their architectural knowledge and to gain further insight into Midland’s unique Mid-Century heritage. Weather permitting, campers have the opportunity to canoe the pond.
Please fill out the parent packet and medical consent forms after registering your camper. Forms can be dropped off, emailed to education@abdow.org, or mailed to:
The Alden B. Dow Home and Studio
attn: Education Coordinator
315 Post Street
Midland, MI 48640
Design Camp I & II for 7th-9th Grade
Campers delve into the principles of design, such as color, texture, and shape through a variety of engaging, hands-on design activities, such as model rooms and mini structures. Exploration of the Home & Studio and another local Mid-Century Modern structure broadens their understanding of design and illustrates its impact on spacial environments. Weather permitting, campers have the opportunity to canoe the pond.
Please fill out the parent packet and medical consent forms after registering your camper. Forms can be dropped off, emailed to education@abdow.org, or mailed to:
The Alden B. Dow Home and Studio
attn: Education Coordinator
315 Post Street
Midland, MI 48640
Adult Camps
The Alden B. Dow Home & Studio’s camps promote creativity for all ages, not just for kids. Our Adult Camps present two invigorating days of personal imaginative exploration, camaraderie, and fun activities both indoors and outdoors. Participants will be inspired by the unique architectural atmosphere of the Home & Studio, which promotes critical thinking and meaningful learning experiences. They will enjoy tours, research in the Archives, hands-on activities, Mr. Dow’s rarely shown films, and reflection time. Campers will be able to connect with one another over complimentary morning coffee, lunches, and a final gathering featuring wine and cheese.
Spring Adult Research Camp
May 28-29, 2026, from 9:30am-4pm, $220
This camp is ideal for those who appreciate design, history, and wish to dedicate time to a deeper exploration of Mr. Dow’s work. Campers will conduct focused research with a curated selection of topics from the Alden B. Dow Archives. Their adventure will include touring the ABDHS along with another Mid-Century Modern structure. They will gain understanding of Mr. Dow’s life philosophy by watching his 16 mm films in the H&S private theater, engage in personal contemplation, and connect with fellow campers during meals.
Summer Adult Design & Exploration Camp
September 24-25, 2026, from 9:30am-4pm, $220
For those looking for more adventure, this camp combines a mix of hands-on projects, that aligned with Mr. Dow’s creativity, and research in the Archives on specific topics, with breaks for reflection. Following the exploration of the Home & Studio and another Mid-Century building, campers will gain a fresh perspective of the building by canoeing on the surrounding pond. Enhancing their already distinctive experience will involve watching Mr. Dow’s 6mm films in the private home theater. The participants will be able to discuss ideas with fellow campers over complimentary morning coffee, lunches, and the cheese and wine gathering which will mark the conclusion of this exceptional camping experience.