Top Activities in Michigan for Kids

Referred to as a “water, winter wonderland,” Michigan is a family-friendly Midwestern spot that provides an exciting four-season retreat for children of all ages.

As the largest state east of the Mississippi River, Michigan boasts the longest freshwater coastline globally, second only to Alaska for the longest coastline in the US. While its best activities are largely outdoors, cities like Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids also feature outstanding exhibits and parks designed for kids.

Is Michigan a Good Destination for Kids?

Michigan is bordered by four of the five Great Lakes and has over 36,300 miles of rivers and more than 11,000 inland lakes. This waterfront setting is complemented by rolling hills, vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and dense forests. Most outdoor activities cater to children, or include a kid-friendly option, and many museums and theme parks offer free or discounted admission for kids.

A car is essential for navigating the state, as public transportation options are generally limited, except in some larger cities. It’s best enjoyed as a road trip, with kids relishing the various roadside attractions, ice cream shops, and entertaining stops along the way.

What Are the Best Places in Michigan for Kids?

Camping options abound throughout the state

Michigan is the perfect destination for kids to enjoy all four seasons, but summer memories are particularly special. If you take away just one thing, know that Michigan features plentiful camping along its beautiful lakes and rivers, in campgrounds that have delighted children for generations. (But really, you’ll want to read the entire list!)

Michigan's campgrounds are clean, safe, and ideally situated for discovering the natural wonders around them. From state forests like Ossineke State Forest by Lake Huron to state recreation areas like Little Presque Isle, which extends into the stunning, chilly waters of Lake Superior, kids will be captivated by the unspoiled beaches and star-filled nights.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Among Michigan’s most breathtaking locations, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore stands out as one of the most remarkable, featuring sand bluffs that rise over 450 feet above the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan, along 35 miles of coastline.

Children of all ages will delight in running or rolling down the steep dunes, but the national lakeshore also provides gentle, short hiking trails, sparkling lazy rivers, a small lake perfect for budding beachcombers, and 22 miles of non-motorized biking paths.

Grand Rapids

The second-largest city in Michigan is defined by its namesake river, where you can rent kayaks and canoes for a truly Michigan experience. Entry to Millennium Park is free, with a small charge for access to the natural beach and boat rentals.

The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park showcases rotating seasonal exhibits, including summer butterflies and autumn gardens filled with gourds, making it an exciting place for kids to explore freely.

In the heart of the city, enroll the kids in a cooking class at Downtown Market and witness fish “climbing” the fish ladder by the riverfront.

Detroit

As one of the notable cities in the Rust Belt, Detroit offers a plethora of engaging activities for children. Explore fascinating music memorabilia at the Motown Museum and participate in special kids’ programs at the Detroit Institute of Arts (with discounted admission).

At the bustling open-air Eastern Market, you can pick up locally sourced snacks before heading to Belle Isle (a state park nestled in the Detroit River) for a picnic, kayak lessons, or even a thrilling ride down the island’s massive slide.

And who can resist a detour for Detroit-style hot dogs, generously topped with condiments at the nostalgic Lafayette Coney Island or American Coney Island downtown? Plus, both spots are just a 15-minute stroll from Comerica Park, where you can catch a Detroit Tigers game (during the season).

Ann Arbor

True to its name, Ann Arbor is a leafy, relaxed city brimming with green spaces and countless family-friendly activities.

Kids will have a blast tubing down the Huron River in summer, and children 12 and under can explore the Automotive Heritage Museum (technically located in nearby Ypsilanti) for free, discovering classic cars from the area. The Ann Arbor Summer Festival features free activities for kids, and little ones will love visiting the Creature Conservancy to see rescued animals from around the globe.

What kid doesn’t adore pizza? As a college town, Ann Arbor boasts some of the finest pizza in the area.

Exploring shipwrecks

The Great Lakes are truly awe-inspiring—there's just so much water! It's almost hard to comprehend how this freshwater can generate enormous waves capable of crashing down and sinking ships of various sizes.

One popular wreck to view from a kayak gliding over the shallow waters of Lake Huron is the Dorcas Pendell near Harbor Beach. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Francisco Morazan can be spotted from the southern shore of South Manitou Island, which is a fun day trip accessible by ferry from Leland. The glass-bottom boat tours of shipwrecks along Lake Superior’s Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore are also incredibly popular.

Frozen caves

Older kids will relish the challenge of hiking to witness the famous ice caves in Michigan’s breathtaking Upper Peninsula. Typically hard to reach, these excursions are best suited for teenagers. Just remember to dress warmly, as it can get quite cold, and the snow and ice may be tricky to navigate—ice cleats are recommended!

The Eben Ice Caves near Marquette offer a stunning draping effect, featuring enormous “icicles” perfect for unforgettable photos. Similarly, the Grand Island Ice Caves are spectacular and can be accessed by crossing a short section of frozen Lake Superior.

Travel tips and navigation

While Michigan isn’t particularly famous for public transport—being the Motor City and all—there are a few alternatives to driving between cities. For instance, a direct Amtrak train route connects Detroit and Ann Arbor, but for a truly immersive “pure Michigan experience,” the ferry system is the way to go.

To explore the Great Lakes, consider day trips or overnight stays on Mackinac Island, Beaver Island, Grand Island, Drummond Island, and South Manitou Island, among others. For a more extended journey, you can take a ferry from Muskegon, Michigan, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin.