9 Fun, Family-Friendly Things to Do on Lake Michigan

9 Fun, Family-Friendly Things to Do on Lake Michigan

Are you searching for the best things to do near Lake Michigan? Whether you prefer to spend time in the water or fill your days with endless outdoor adventures, there's plenty to explore around the glistening waters and silky shorelines of the nation's third-largest freshwater lake. Here are our top picks for the best family-friendly Lake Michigan activities and attractions.

1. Play Laser Tag

Craig's Cruisers Family Fun Center in Norton Shores, Michigan, offers indoor and outdoor entertainment perfect for thrill seekers of all ages. You can play laser tag, video games and miniature golf. Otherwise, you can take a spin in a bumper boat or enjoy go-karting. 

2. Visit Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is a quaint, quiet island in Lake Huron. It is also the site of Fort Mackinac — where two battles occurred during the War of 1812. Whether you want to explore the island by boat, air, bike or horse and buggy or taste the world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge, Mackinac Island offers something for everyone.

3. Dine on Lake Michigan

Imagine enjoying a romantic, candlelit dinner while watching the fiery sunset disappear behind the sparkling blue waters of Lake Michigan. Couples can do just that by booking a Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan with CityCruises.

4. Climb a Sand Dune

P.J. Hoffmaster State Park in Muskegon is home to three miles of Lake Michigan Beach shoreline, impressive, rolling sand dunes and the Gilette Sand Dune Visitor Center. Visitors can learn about the sand dunes at the visitor center before they hike the dunes via the roundtrip Dune Overlook Trail or Homestead Trail.

5. Explore Michigan Adventure

Michigan Adventure is Michigan's largest amusement park and home to the state's longest, fastest roller coaster, Shivering Timbers. This fun, family-friendly destination features over 60 rides perfect for children of all ages. 

6. Splash Around at WildWater Adventure

Is there an especially hot day in the forecast? Let the kiddos cool off at Michigan Adventure's waterpark, WildWater Adventure. The waterpark's Half-Pint Paradise features miniature water slides and a sea-creature-clad splash pad ideal for young children.

7. Relax on a Beach

Michigan is home to over 3,000 miles of silky, sandy shorelines and dozens of family-friendly beaches. Whether you prefer the shallow shorelines of Muskegon Beach or you want to grab some grub at The Dock on Pere Marquette Beach, there are plenty of places to relax near Michigan's waters.

8. Canoe Michigan's Inland Waterways

If you love spending time in the water, you can rent a kayak, paddleboard or canoe and explore many of Michigan's Inland Waterways, including Tawas Bay in Tawas Point State Park — otherwise known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” 

9. Camp Near Lake Michigan at Muskegon KOA Journey

Camping is a fun family pastime that can take a traditional vacation to the next level. At Muskegon KOA Journey, you will enjoy having access to family-friendly amenities that make traveling with little ones easier, including laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi and kayak, canoe and SUP rentals. 

Whether you want to sleep under the stars in a tent, RV or cabin, you will be near some of the best things to do in Lake Michigan and the surrounding area at our campground. Reserve your campsite online today!

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