January is officially Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month but a number of states offer terrific benefits throughout the winter months for families with children in the 4th, 5th, or 6th grades. In addition to its natural beauty, this region is a significant vacation destination because of its many resort towns. With 22 miles of shoreline in central Michigan, its considered one of the states largest inland lakes. The Warren Dunes State Park is located in the southern part of Michigans lower peninsula. The beaches in northern Michigan are some of the most beautiful and unspoiled in all of the Midwest. 8. 12 Best Family Vacations in Michigan By Matthew Lynch November 14, 2022 0 Spread the love Michigan is a beautiful place, with plenty of places to visit that are kid friendly. Then, the Leelanau Peninsula, which is on the western side of Lake Michigan, is also a good place to hike or explore by kayak or canoe. This pet-friendly beach has more than 3 miles of shoreline and sand dunes rising 260 feet making it a perfect spot to take in the spectacular Lake Michigan vistas, do some hang-gliding and just simply just relax with your toes in the sand. Before anything else, browse through this list of top family resorts near Lake Michigan, USA. Your stay will provide years of happy memories for just the two of you or your whole family. We hope you liked this list of the 13 Best Lake Destinations in Michigan to Visit with Kids this Summer for your next family vacation! This trail consists of 2 loops (the Memorial and the Cathedral). Just a block away from the downtown area with its ice cream shops, cafes and more Oscoda Beach Park is a lovely spot to enjoy everything the Lake Huron shoreline has to offer. There are also walking trails that lead to the Ludington lighthouse, which is a historical landmark in the area of Lake Michigan. Malta, an archipelago in the central Mediterranean, is a great destination for families with kids. Youll want to bring a camera, because its incredibly picturesque. Be sure to book your tickets in advance! Best vacation experiences listening to the Mo Town sound or climbing a lighthouse on the shores of Lake Michigan. There are modern restrooms and a changing area available at the park. Nested into the dramatic shoreline of Lake Michigan with towering dunes and wide, sandy beaches, Grand Haven City Beach is the perfect spot for a family beach vacation. With more than 3,000 miles of coastline, you can find exactly what you need for your family beach vacation in Michigan. 8 Best Lake Michigan Resorts - Trips To Discover The town has many lodging options, including motels and bed and breakfasts. 11 Best Family Beaches in Michigan For 2023 (Kid Friendly!) With campgrounds, hotels and B&Bs, theres no shortage of accommodations, as well as a collection of restaurants, wineries, cideries and breweries to thrill your taste buds. Michigan Family Vacations; Destinations; Book Now 833-507-1105. The Grand Haven Art Festival, which showcases more than 300 artists and craftspeople, is held in the city. It is also one of North America's most popular tourist destinations, with many different spots to visit along its more than 1,600 miles of shoreline. Located just blocks from downtown Ludington one of Michigans best beach towns Stearns Park Beach is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing and more. When staying here, youll also be within a short distance of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, featuring one of the UPs iconic landmarks. The twin towns on either side of Lake Michigan's Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey and Harbor Springs, sit near the top of Michigan's lower peninsula. There are hiking and biking trails, too, with bike rentals and helmet available on site. Sleeping Bear Dunes is an excellent place for families. Page couldn't load Instagram. As family resorts in Michigan go, this is one of the best. Michigan has beautiful and kids friendly places. There are many things to do with kids at Big Glen Lake, including swimming, fishing, canoeing, and hiking. The citys downtown area is full of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Watch Michigan - Family Vacation by the Lake - KCET The beach and dune areas are a great place to hunt for fossils and Petoskey Stones, pieces of fossilized coral that are Michigans state rock. Kids will love climbing up it for views of the lake and the surrounding sand dunes! Plus, you can read our latest articles by following ourFacebook page. View call direct. Kirk Park is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan in West Olive, MI. The famed Silver Beach Carousel is just yards from the beach and has been a family favorite of beach goers for more than 100 years. Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes of North America and the worlds largest freshwater lake by volume. Self-billed as the Riviera of the Midwest, St. Josephs shopping district offers everything from ice cream-and-fudge shops to gourmet food fare, wineries and much more. The best part? Plus, there are plenty of restaurants and Ice cream shops to enjoy when you need a break from the sun. Families will appreciate the many cute shops and fun eateries catering to a wide variety of customers. Visitors also love hanging out at the sandbar, offering a party vibe at the southern end. White Birch Lodge | All-Inclusive Family Resort in Michigan In the heart of Northern Michigan Celebrating Over 60 Years of Family Fun Come Experience The Magic Photos Shop Work At W.B.L. Find out 16 Fantastic Places To Visit In Michigans Upper Peninsula With Kids! Follow us to discover the best spots in Michigan to Stay, Play, Eat and Beach! Grand Traverse Resort and Spa 7. We started this blog as a place to go to when we had questions about buying our first home on the lake. Ice cream and fudge shops, casual cafes and more upscale offerings line the streets, mixed among the boutiques offering everything from gourmet kitchenware to toys and beach tees. One of five Great Lakes, its the one located entirely within the United States. [Read More]. ), Port Crescent State Park has three miles of shoreline along Lake Hurons Saginaw Bay. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or even pets, Vrbo vacation homes have the best amenities for hanging out with the people that matter most, including high chairs for kids and kitchens. 1. Families looking for a summer getaway or a Michigan family vacation will find plenty to love at Lake Muskegon! Visitors can also climb the tower for stunning views of the lake and the surrounding area. A favorite family destination ANY time of the year, Crystal Mountain resort is just pure fun. You can parasail, fish, or take a boat tour in St. Ignace. Most of these cottages and cabins are independently owned and operated, and management takes great pride in both cleanliness and providing a memorable stay for all. Not to mention, some of the largest trees in the UP! Playground areas, concessions and water sport rentals such as paddle boards kayaks are also available at Silver Beach. The towns highlight is the water, with several shops and restaurants offering a variety of foods. Lake Charlevoix is one of the best lakes in Michigan for a family vacation during the summer! At Lake Gogebic State Park, families can enjoy multiple miles of lakefront, plus a sandy beach, though keep in mind there are no lifeguards. There are plenty of vacation rentals available in Grand Haven to accommodate any needs, and the town is also a great base for exploring Michigans state parks and other attractions. And other interesting facts. Or, head just south of the city to Fishermans Island State Park for more outdoor fun. 12 Best Family Vacations in Michigan - The Edvocate 1 review. Enjoy flexibility with our Book now Pay later option & fully refundable rates on most hotels Were sharing FIVE of our favorite spots for Michigan family vacations, but be sure to explore the interactive Michigan Beach and Travel Map to find even more family travel inspiration. *This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Find Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals Near Lake Michigan. From hotel rooms and suites to condominiums and cottages to luxury homes, Crystal Mountain offers something for every vacation budget. Many families consider cottages or lake rentals via Vrbo or a similar service. Families can also look for rentals on Vrbo. Budget Travel | Lake Michigan: 8 Perfect Summer Getaways There's an issue and the page could not be loaded. Much cooler Lake Michigan, with its azure-colored water, contrasts beautifully with the bright sand dunes and is wonderfully relaxing. But keep in mind that spots fill up fast; this is an especially popular camping spot in the summer. Located in the western end of the Upper Peninsula, this area features activities such as fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, and more. Located further south, St. Joseph is a fantastic Lake Michigan vacation spot for visitors from Illinois, Indiana or Wisconsin. Exploring Dutch Heritage (including an authentic Dutch windmill). Reserve this highly rated 4 BR home on Lake Gogebic through Vrbo! Big Glen Lake is also near the town of Glen Arbor, which features restaurants, shops, and other attractions for families to see. 01 Experiences Back 02 Attractions & Activities Back 03 Events Back 04 Stay & Plan Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter YouTube 10 Memory-Making Family Vacations in Michigan Photo courtesy of gatheringtwigs There's nothing better than a Pure Michigan road trip. Its also nearby Sleeping Bear Point Beach, which is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Lovely Ludington, MI is home to the singing sands an allusion to the squeaky sound the sugar soft sand makes as you walk through it in bare feet. And when it comes to finding the perfect lake for a family getaway, Michigans lower peninsula has plenty to offer as well. When choosing a lake for your family vacation, you cant go wrong with any of Michigans options. View this page for Michigan family vacation ideas including things to do with kids, and family friendly hotels, resorts and campgrounds with vacation packages. The Great Turtle Kayak Tour is a great way to see the coastline, and the Carriage Tour is a great way to see the islands highlights. The beaches listed here all have the essential amenities necessary to enjoy a day at the beach with your family, and some of them offer much more. It hosts a variety of events throughout the year: the Summer Festival, Ann Arbor Art Fair, Film Festival, and more! Located near Traverse City, just 15 miles east of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this family-friendly lake is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and other fun adventures during the warmer months. 15 State Parks On Lake Michigan With Tent And RV Camping The crystal-clear Lake Huron water is perfect for swimming and splashing, and the soft sand is a great place to stretch out on a beach towel and relax. The city also offers plenty of art galleries and many events throughout the year showcase local artists. Warren Dunes is a perfect spot for a Michigan Beach vacation. 10 BEST Family Beaches in Michigan - My Michigan Beach and Michigan Travel A wide variety of accommodations, a kids camp, restaurants, a grocery store and more are all set comfortably on an easily walk-able resort campus at the foot of scenic Crystal Mountain. This scenic viewpoint provides 360-degree panoramas of the Glen Lakes, as well as Lake Michigan. With 48 acres of sandy Lake Michigan shore, its easy to find a nice quiet spot. The proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, just minutes away, is also a bonus. Its also located right on the shores of Walloon Lake, so families have an adventure waiting right at their doorstep! Warren Dunes State Park is a great place to go for a day trip or weekend getaway. The best time to visit Manistique is in the summer when the weather is warm and sunny. Ludington State Park. The small town of Allendale, Michigan, is located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Looking for more adventure? Michigan, US Vacation Rentals: chalet rentals & more | Vrbo As the second largest of the Great Lakes, it offers miles of beautiful sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and an abundance of activities for kids of all ages. With more than 3,000 miles of coastline, you can find exactly what you need for your family beach vacation in Michigan. Michigan Family Vacations: Five AWESOME Spots for 2023 With a wide beach for swimming and sun-bathing, nearby concessions and restrooms, hiking and biking trails, picnic shelters, camping and more. The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when Lake Michigans water temperature reaches its warmest. Please use the buttons below to share this post and thanks. Youll even find a kids hands-on museum within steps of the beach here. Similar to St. Joseph, accommodations in Grand Haven include chain hotels, independently-run motels and Inns as well as Bed and Breakfasts. Carlsons Smoked Fish Shop is a must-visit spot for smoked Michigan whitefish or Lake Trout. Holland State Park is located in the center of town and is easy to find. One event that is held each year is the Lake Michigan Challenge, which takes place in Ludington State Park. Great Lakes Best Family Vacation Beach Spots in Ohio, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Michigan. Nestled amongst Michigans forests near the top of the lower peninsula is a natural wonder with breathtaking views; sprawling acres of towering sand dunes between Silver Lake and Lake Michigan. Winter months include skiing and boarding, cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Or, check out options in quaint nearby towns like Elk Rapids, Alden, and Kewadin. The charming beach town of South Haven offers lakeside fun for the entire family, a walk-able downtown with unique shops and restaurants, and enough maritime history, arts, live music, and culture to . Best places for family vacation fun: Greenfield Village, Lake Michigan, Lake Superior and Henry Ford Museum. Mackinac Island Mackinac Island is Michigan's popular tourist destination. It is a short drive from Chicago or Detroit for a weekend trip. Big Glen Lake is just east of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, making it easy to add to a Michigan family itinerary. . Stroll along the water and let the kids stop for ice-cream, hot dogs and beach trinkets while taking in fresh breezes off the lake. You dont need to head to the ocean to enjoy a relaxing beachfront summer getaway. Grand Haven is located on U.S. 31 in Ottawa County, about 100 miles northwest of Grand Rapids. Need somewhere to stay near Lake Gogebic with kids? Youre in the right place. An added bonus is that you can catch a ferry to fabulous Mackinac Island from St. Ignace and be on the island in just minutes. The cities of Traverse City, Grand Haven, Manistique, and Allendale City are all popular stops for tourists who come to the area in search of fresh air, white sand beaches, and some of the best shopping in the state. Grab your swimsuit and head to one of these lakes in Micigans Upper Peninsula for a family vacation that everyone will love! Whether you want to relax on the beach or go boating, Michigans lakes are varied and offer a ton of family fun, especially in the summer. With three childrens play structures, a splash pad, volleyball court and picnic facilities, Alpenas Starlite Beach has everything needed for a fun family beach day. Visitors can also explore the many water sports options or enjoy one of the many restaurants in the city. Sandy beaches check.Clean restroom facilities check.Wide, sandy beach with many amenities check. The area is considered Michigan's number one state park. Another activity that you can enjoy at Lake Michigan is fishing. We suggest the Baywatch Resort or Pinestead Reef Resort, both of which are in Traverse City. There was a lot of information on the internet, but we always spent hours searching for it. Dont forget to check out the observation deck at Copper Peak near Ironwood. There will be 9 of us total [two families with 5 children ranging in age from 8-16]. Additionally, the wide boardwalk along the beach and wide, paved pier offers excellent accessibility to the water for users of wheelchairs and other accessibility devices. There are several hotels on the island and many more nearby. Located at the tip of Michigans Thumb (remember the Michigan Mitten? Along with its counterpart, Little Glen Lake, this beautiful lake is located in the heart of northern Michigans Leelanau Peninsula. Lake Michigan Vacation Rentals - Northern Michigan Escapes Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore and Esch Road Beach. Lake Huron is undoubtedly one of the best lakes in Michigan for a family vacation! Ludington is also home to more than 28 miles of Lake Michigan beach, and Stearns Park in one of the best beaches in the area, especially for families. There is also a campground in case you want to stay overnight. Visitors new to the Great Lakes State are always amazed at the gorgeous landscape that has made it a perfect vacation destination for visitors around the world. The park also has a Junior Ranger program for kids ages 6-12. The amazing sand dunes of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are undoubtedly among the most stunning areas of natural beauty in the state. *Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community. Deals & Packages | Michigan You can hike through the dunes during the day and catch a vibrant sunset over the lake by night. Lake Michigan, US Vacation Rentals: chalet rentals & more | Vrbo With miles of soft, sugar-sand beaches that meet clear, blue water, it is a perfect spot for family beach vacations. Between activities such as swimming and kayaking to hiking and camping, your kids will love exploring all that Michigan has to offer. Roger's offers clean, cozy, and private . There are currently no family vacation ideas for this location. Youll be rewarded with panoramic views of the UP! For starters, the lake itself is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. With famiy friendly activities in Michigan like sand dunes to climb, indoor waterparks with endless lazy rivers, and miles of parks and trails for every outdoor activity imaginable, who needs summer camps to keep busy? There are two beaches, a playground, and concessions at the park. Who does't like the sound of "kids ski free" or almost free? Our resort, Roger's Place Woodland Lake, is unique and special.
