5 Amazing Family-Friendly Vacation Destinations in Michigan

Looking for a Midwest getaway the whole family will love? Michigan is bursting with natural beauty, outdoor adventures, charming small towns, and lakeside fun. Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or a weeklong summer vacation, here are five family-friendly destinations in Michigan that are sure to create unforgettable memories.

1. Mackinac Island (fav. area): A Step Back in Time

Mackinac Island is one of the most unique and magical spots in the Midwest. With no cars allowed, the island is a peaceful, bike-friendly escape perfect for families. Explore by horse-drawn carriage, rent bikes to circle the island, or simply enjoy the slower pace.

Top family-friendly activities:

• Visit Fort Mackinac to learn about history with live reenactments and cannon firings.

• Take a carriage tour of the island for scenic views and fun storytelling.

• Try the world-famous Mackinac Island fudge—a must for kids and grownups alike.

• Enjoy a bike ride along the 8.2-mile perimeter trail around the island.

Family-friendly hotels like Mission Point Resort (this is where we stayed) offer kid-centered activities, bike rentals, and plenty of green space.

2. Traverse City: Beaches, Cherries & Beautiful Views

Located on Grand Traverse Bay, this picturesque town is full of family fun. Known as the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City is a great mix of outdoor adventure, beaches, and small-town charm.

Top family-friendly activities:

• Splash and swim at Clinch Park Beach.

• Ride the Great Lakes Children’s Museum interactive exhibits.

• Take a day trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for dune climbs and stunning lake views.

• Visit a cherry orchard for picking in season or grab a cherry pie at a local bakery.

Check out beachfront hotels or family cabins along the lake for easy access to the water.

3. Frankenmuth: Michigan’s Little Bavaria

If your family loves festive atmospheres, Frankenmuth is the place to be. Known for its German heritage, it offers unique shopping, hearty meals, and year-round fun.

Top family-friendly activities:

• Shop at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store.

• Take a riverboat cruise on the Cass River.

• Enjoy water fun at Zehnder’s Splash Village, an indoor waterpark and hotel.

• Walk across the covered wooden bridge and grab a famous chicken dinner.

Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel is perfect for families with kids of all ages thanks to its massive indoor water park.

4. Holland: Tulips and Lakeside Fun

Holland brings together the beauty of Lake Michigan with Dutch charm. It’s the perfect mix of beach days and cultural experiences.

Top family-friendly activities:

• Explore Windmill Island Gardens with a real working windmill, a carousel, and tons of flowers.

• Visit during Tulip Time Festival (May) for parades, costumes, and millions of blooming tulips.

• Build sandcastles or swim at Holland State Park.

• Visit the Outdoor Discovery Center for animal encounters and nature trails.

There are plenty of cozy vacation rentals and kid-friendly hotels near the lake and downtown.

5. Upper Peninsula Adventures: Munising & Pictured Rocks

For adventurous families, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers rugged beauty and tons of outdoor fun. Munising is the gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a stunning stretch of colorful cliffs and waterfalls.

Top family-friendly activities:

• Take a Pictured Rocks boat tour or kayak adventure.

• Hike easy family trails to see Miners Falls or Munising Falls.

• Cool off with a dip in Lake Superior at Sand Point Beach.

• Enjoy stargazing and bonfires at one of the many campgrounds.

There are many campgrounds and cabins near Munising or lakeside resorts provide the perfect base for your U.P. adventures.

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Michigan is full of hidden gems and iconic destinations, making it a perfect choice for a family vacation. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, biking around historic islands, or digging your toes in the sand along the Great Lakes, your next family adventure is just a road trip away.