The Ultimate Michigan Travel Guide! Check out These Must-Visit Michigan Vacation Spots for Families
Looking for unforgettable Michigan vacation spots with your kids? From outdoor adventures to charming small towns, Michigan offers endless family fun year-round. Explore the wild beauty of Isle Royale National Park, where hiking and wildlife spotting creates lasting memories. Step back in time on Mackinac Island, with its horse-drawn carriages and scenic bike rides. Or, discover Detroit’s hands-on museums and vibrant food scene for a city escape. Embrace seasonal magic in Holland during the tulip season or enjoy festive holiday cheer in Frankenmuth. Whether you’re planning extended summer travel or a visit to one of the best quick family weekend trips in Michigan, this guide covers the most exciting and unique things to do in Michigan with kids!
Please keep reading to discover our top picks for the 12 best Michigan vacation spots for families with kids of all ages.
Best Places to Visit in the Upper Peninsula with Kids
The Upper Peninsula has several exciting Michigan vacation spots for families with kids. It offers endless outdoor adventures and seasonal attractions (from summer big lake fishing to winter ski resorts). Whether you’re searching for waterfalls or wildlife, the U.P. is full of unique things to do in Michigan with kids, making it perfect for adventurous family getaways!
Marquette
Marquette is the perfect U.P. destination for unforgettable Michigan family getaways. This vibrant city is nestled along Lake Superior and offers stunning hiking trails and scenic views.
Families can explore Dead River Falls, a series of waterfalls along a half-mile hike that’s exciting and accessible for kids. Families can also stroll through Presque Isle Park, where kids can climb the iconic black rocks, spot white-tailed deer, or enjoy a lakeside swim. It’s also an excellent spot for a family picnic! Alternatively, a visit to Lower Harbor Park provides wide-open spaces and playgrounds on the lakefront. Keep an eye out for passing boats! Fall visitors may prefer the breathtaking seasonal colors of Sugarloaf Mountain or Thomas Rock. Of course, winter visitors can race down the slopes at Marquette Mountain Resort.
For indoor fun, the Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits in science, culture, and history that will keep little ones engaged. Meanwhile, older kids may prefer the exhibits at the Marquette Maritime Museum. After a full day of exploring, warm up with a hearty meal at Jean Kay’s Pasties or cool off with ice cream from one of Marquette’s many charming shops.
Whether hiking, biking or simply relaxing by the water, Marquette delivers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation for memorable family fun.
Munising
Munising offers endless outdoor adventures along the shores of Lake Superior. This charming town is the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, where families can hike scenic trails, relax on pristine beaches, and marvel at the colorful cliffs and towering Grand Sable Dunes. Kids will love exploring the area’s eight stunning waterfalls, especially the easily accessible Munising Falls. After visiting the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore together, head into town to learn more about it at the Pictured Rocks Interpretive Center.
For a unique summer experience, hop on a Glass Bottom Shipwreck Tour to discover sunken ships beneath the lake’s surface. Or, kayak along the vibrant Pictured Rocks cliffs. Families can also spend the day splashing in the waves along Sand Point Beach. Of course, you can continue your exploration of the area on foot by hiking through the lush trails of Grand Island National Recreation Area, just a short ferry ride away. While both are a bit of a drive from Munising, adventurous families will enjoy the trek to Tahquamenon Falls State Park and the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie.
While Munising is a fun destination year-round, late spring through peak fall offers the best temperatures for exploring. Additionally, many seasonal attractions are only open during the summer tourism season. Whether chasing waterfalls, hiking scenic trails, or enjoying lake adventures, Munising is packed with natural wonders that make it one of the best Michigan vacation spots with kids!
Isle Royal National Park
For adventurous families seeking extraordinary Michigan summer vacation ideas for families, Isle Royale National Park is the ultimate escape. Located in the heart of Lake Superior, this remote wilderness offers an authentic off-the-grid experience with no cars, just pure nature. Whether your family enjoys rustic backcountry camping or a cozy stay at Rock Harbor Lodge, Isle Royale is perfect for exploring the great outdoors.
With over 160 miles of hiking trails, families can embark on scenic hikes like the Stoll Memorial Trail, which offers flexible routes for all skill levels. Adventurous kids will love spotting wildlife, exploring historic lighthouses, or paddling through the park’s crystal-clear waters by kayak or canoe. For a unique adventure on the water, take a guided boat tour.
Ideal for families with older kids or teens, Isle Royale offers plenty of unique things to do in Upper Michigan with kids, from fishing in quiet coves to exploring endless miles of trails. If your family craves a wild and unforgettable adventure, Isle Royale delivers a one-of-a-kind summer getaway!
Best Places to Visit in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan with Kids
The lower part of Michigan (or the Mitten) offers incredible family adventures for all ages! Explore sandy beaches in Saugatuck, discover hands-on fun at Grand Rapids’ museums, or enjoy the charm of Frankenmuth. These top Michigan family vacation destinations promise exciting and relaxing vacation spots for kids in every season.
Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is a timeless treasure and undoubtedly one of the best Michigan summer vacation ideas for families. Accessible only by ferry or airplane, this car-free island feels like stepping back in time with its charming horse-drawn carriages, historic sites, and old-fashioned fudge shops.
Families can explore Fort Mackinac, where live demonstrations and cannon firings bring local history to life. Then, stroll through the colorful Mackinac Island Butterfly House for a magical experience. Then, don’t miss the trails and views at Mackinac Island State Park. Interested in getting on the water? Kayak and canoe tours are also available.
For active families, renting bikes is a must! It’s one of the best ways to get around the island. The scenic 8.2-mile Mackinac Island Bike Trail circles the island, offering incredible shoreline views and stops at natural wonders like Arch Rock. Little ones will love spotting horses and carriages, while older kids can take on the challenge of a tandem bike ride.
Want to splurge? Stay at the iconic Grand Hotel and enjoy its pool and stunning views. Or, stay on the mainland and hop on the ferry for an unforgettable day trip. From fudge tasting to horse carriage tours, Mackinac Island is packed with activities that make it one of the top family vacations in Michigan.
Click here to learn more about getting to Mackinac Island and the ferry schedule.
Detroit
Detroit is an exciting stop for family vacations in Michigan. With endless things to do for all ages across the city, Detroit boasts a thrilling mix of fun, history, and outdoor spaces. All with the added benefit of an airport right in the city (DTW) (making it easy to get to with kids!).
Families can explore the Detroit Zoo, where they can see polar bears, penguins, and more. Then, they can splash around at Mount Elliott Park along the Detroit RiverWalk. At Belle Isle Park, families with kids can enjoy a scenic stroll, visit the Belle Isle Aquarium, or rent kayaks for some river fun.
For an educational twist on your family trip, head to the Michigan Science Center or the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village are a must-see for any family interested in American innovation, offering interactive exhibits like the Rosa Parks Bus and historic machinery. Try the Motown Museum to learn about the city’s influence on music and American culture for something unique. This is just the start of the dozens of museums found across Detroit! No matter what interests your family, Detroit has a museum for it!
Lastly, no visit to Detroit is complete without some famous local eats, like Coney dogs or Detroit-style pizza. Whether you’re discovering local or U.S. history, learning about animals, or enjoying interactive exhibits, Detroit is packed with activities for all ages, making it one of our favorite family vacation destinations in Michigan.
Saugatuck
Saugatuck is one of the top Michigan vacation spots with kids, especially for artistic or creative families. This area has been dubbed Michigan’s Art Coast. Families can start their visit by exploring Saugatuck Dunes State Park, where kids will love hiking the sandy trails and climbing the towering dunes. You may even see local or visiting artists painting or drawing during your visit!
For a thrilling ride, hop on a Saugatuck Dune Ride and bounce through the scenic dunes. Then, Oval Beach, one of the best in the Midwest, is perfect for a day of swimming and sandcastle building. Feeling adventurous? Climb the 303 steps of Mt. Baldhead for stunning views!
For a slower pace, take the historic Saugatuck Chain Ferry across the Kalamazoo River or visit local art studios, like Peachbelt Studio & Gallery, to inspire young artists. Families can also stroll through downtown’s charming shops and grab a sweet treat at one of the local ice cream spots. Whether hiking, art or simply relaxing on the beach, Saugatuck offers endless ways to enjoy quality time together, making it one of the top Michigan summer vacation ideas for families.
Michigan Travel Guide: Holland
Holland is bursting with European-inspired charm! Its seasonal attractions make it one of our favorite Michigan spring and summer vacation ideas for families. In spring, the vibrant Tulip Time Festival fills the town with over six million blooming tulips, making it a must-see event for all ages.
Then, families can dive into Dutch culture at Nelis’ Dutch Village, a family-friendly park with rides, a petting zoo, and interactive cultural demos. Of course, you can’t miss Windmill Island Gardens, where you can tour the only authentic working Dutch windmill in the United States. Rainy day? No problem! BAM! Entertainment Center entertains parents and kids with bowling, laser tag, and a high ropes course.
For outdoor fun, head to Holland State Park to relax on the sandy beach and snap photos of the iconic Big Red Lighthouse. Alternatively, adventure seekers can hike or bike across the area’s many parks. Or, get on Lake Michigan by kayak, paddleboard, or canoe. You can even see Big Red from a new perspective while you paddle by!
Whether you’re exploring blooming gardens, paddling on Lake Michigan, or indulging in a sweet treat from Captain Sundae, Holland offers several excellent ways to create new family memories. This lakeside gem is full of unique Michigan vacation ideas for families and is the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation.
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Traverse City
Traverse City is a top Michigan vacation spot, offering plenty of outdoor adventures for all ages and even more kid-friendly attractions. Nestled along Grand Traverse Bay, this vibrant lakeside town is perfect for exploring sandy beaches like Clinch Park Beach, where kids can splash in the water. Or, play at the nearby splash pad while parents relax or chase them around. For a unique summer experience (end of June/early July), plan your visit during the National Cherry Festival to enjoy parades, air shows, and endless cherry-themed treats.
Outdoor-loving families can also bike the scenic Leelanau Trail or kayak on the bay. Of course, everyone should take the short drive to climb the towering dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This is one of the most beloved spots in Michigan! For more hands-on fun, visit Jacob’s Farm for live music, wood-fired pizza, and seasonal kids’ activities. Round out your outdoor exploration of Traverse City with mini-golf, zip-lines, and more thrilling fun at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Park.
Explore the art galleries and interactive kids’ exhibits at the Dennos Museum Center for indoor fun. Littles will also appreciate letting loose and exploring the Great Lakes Children’s Museum.
Downtown Traverse City offers family-friendly shopping, local ice cream spots, and the popular Little Fleet food trucks, making grabbing a bite between adventures easy. Whether it’s beach days, hiking, or cherry-picking, Traverse City is brimming with activities. No wonder it is one of the best family vacation destinations in Michigan!
Grand Rapids
Looking for Michigan family getaways packed with fun for every age? Grand Rapids is the place to be! Known as one of the best cities to raise a family, this vibrant town has something for every kid and parent.
Visit the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum for hands-on activities. Or, explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park with its kid-friendly Lena Meijer Children’s Garden. If your family loves the outdoors, Grand Rapids offers a range of year-round fun. In the winter, find snowshoeing and tubing at Belknap Park and downhill skiing at Cannonsburg Ski Area. Meanwhile, summer visitors can paddle down The Grand River. Or, enjoy its gentle currents by paddlewheel riverboat cruise. For a fun mix of nature and history, head to Blandford Nature Center for year-round outdoor adventures and wildlife experiences.
Of course, those traveling with kids can’t miss John Ball Zoo for an up-close look at animals. Then, check out the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Here, kids can get creative by roaming several galleries or attending workshops.
Finally, add a fun festival to your itinerary. Several family-friendly festivals, like the Festival of the Arts and the Polish Festival, are held throughout the year. As you can see, Grand Rapids has everything needed for unforgettable family vacations in Michigan!
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Michigan Travel Guide: Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is an excellent choice for your next family getaway if you’re looking for fun Michigan vacation spots with kids. This vibrant city offers educational and fun activities for all ages.
Start with the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, where kids can explore interactive exhibits and learn through play. Then, visit the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History to see towering dinosaur bones. It’s one of the best free things to do with kids in Ann Arbor! You can paddle or float with Skip’s Huron River Canoe Livery if you want to get on the river.
For nature lovers, the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum both offer beautiful trails and gardens, including a peony garden perfect for a scenic family walk. Summer visitors can also head to Domino’s Farms Petting Zoo for a hands-on animal adventure.
Finally, don’t miss the city’s whimsical fairy doors! They are scattered around downtown and are part of a fun scavenger hunt for little ones. Whether you’re checking out the science exhibits, strolling through one of the many parks, or discovering the magic of the fairy doors, Ann Arbor is one of the best family weekend trips in Michigan.
Lansing
Visiting Michigan’s state capitol is an exciting family trip for all ages! In fact, Lansing provides plenty of affordable and fun things for families to do. Its diverse array of free things to do in the city makes it one of Michigan’s best family weekend trips.
For hands-on fun with littles, head to the Impression 5 Science Center. Meanwhile, older kids may prefer the learning opportunities at the Michigan History Museum. Both museums are packed with interactive exhibits for curious minds. The Eli & Edythe Broad Art Museum offers free Family Day activities on the first Saturday of the month, where kids can get creative at art-making stations.
Outside, explore the Lansing River Trail, a 20-mile stretch ideal for biking and walking. Or, visit the Fenner Nature Center. This beautiful park offers several kid-friendly trails and a natural playground. If your kids love animals, don’t miss the Potter Park Zoo or the MSU Bug House for a close-up look at creepy crawlers.
Lansing also has a range of family-friendly dining spots, including the Lansing Shuffle. Whether you’re exploring museums, relaxing in the parks, or enjoying local foodie spots, Lansing is a top pick among Michigan vacation spots with kids, offering an abundance of activities for everyone!
Michigan Travel Guide: Frankenmuth
Looking for unique Michigan vacation ideas for families? Frankenmuth is a fantastic destination that delivers a fun-packed getaway for all ages. This charming town, known as “Little Bavaria,” offers several exciting experiences for all ages, from thrilling indoor waterparks to exploring a Christmas wonderland year-round. While Frankenmuth is undoubtedly magical during the holidays, this German-inspired town is a year-round destination for families.
Families can start their vacation by zip-ling through the Frankenmuth Aerial Park. Afterward, stay and splash around at Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark. Or, enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Cass River on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat.
Of course, you can’t miss Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store. Here, the magic of the season is alive every day. Meanwhile, the quaint downtown area is perfect for strolling and shopping. The Frankenmuth Cheese Haus and local fudge kitchens offer tasty treats. For a truly local tradition, be sure to try the world-famous chicken dinner at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth!
Whether you’re hitting the water slides, exploring the shops, or celebrating Christmas in July, Frankenmuth has something to make your family vacation magical for all ages. With its German-inspired charm and endless activities, it’s no wonder why families flock here year-round!
Have Fun Exploring Michigan with Your Kids!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
