Exploring Fun Things to Do with Kids in Michigan

If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids in Michigan, you’ll be happy to know that the Great Lakes State offers a plethora of activities and attractions to keep your family entertained. From outdoor adventure to historic sites, the possibilities are endless. Read on to discover twelve of the best family-friendly destinations in Michigan.

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore provides plenty of outdoor fun for kids of all ages. With more than 70 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, the dunes are a great place to explore, climb, and take in the area’s stunning scenery. You can even go for a swim, kayak, or take a boat out on the lake. There are also plenty of trails to hike, and you can even go on a guided hike with a Park Ranger.

If you’re looking for a unique experience, take a drive along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a seven-mile loop that takes you through the park’s most picturesque spots. Or, explore the dunes on horseback with a guided horseback riding tour.

No matter what you choose to do, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

2. Detroit Zoo

The Detroit Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in Michigan, and it’s easy to see why. With more than 2,000 animals, the zoo provides plenty of entertainment for both kids and adults. You can explore the zoo’s 125 acres, which include a variety of exhibits, such as the African Grasslands, Arctic Ring of Life, and Penguinarium.

The Detroit Zoo also offers a variety of special events, such as educational programs, animal encounters, and even a holiday light show. And don’t forget to check out the zoo’s Wildlife Interpretive Center, which provides interactive exhibits and activities for the whole family.

Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the kids or an educational experience, the Detroit Zoo offers something for everyone.

3. Michigan’s Adventure

Michigan’s Adventure is the state’s largest amusement park, and it’s the perfect place to take the kids for a day of thrills and excitement. With more than 60 rides and attractions, there’s something for everyone, from roller coasters to water rides.

The park also offers a variety of special events, such as live entertainment, parades, and fireworks shows. Plus, there’s a wide selection of food and shopping options, so you can make a day of it.

Michigan’s Adventure is a great place to let the kids run wild and have a blast.

4. Michigan’s Great Lakes

Michigan is home to four of the five Great Lakes, and this makes it the perfect destination for a family getaway. Spend the day at one of the state’s many beaches, or take a boat out on the lake. You can also go fishing, take a kayak tour, or explore the area’s many lighthouses and historic sites.

The Great Lakes are also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, loons, and even whales. So, keep your eyes peeled for some amazing sightings.

From swimming and fishing to sightseeing and exploring, the Great Lakes are sure to provide plenty of family fun.

5. Upper Peninsula

The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a great destination for outdoor adventures with the kids. From hiking and biking to camping and fishing, the possibilities are endless.

The U.P. is also home to several waterfalls, including the iconic Tahquamenon Falls. Or, explore the region’s stunning coastline and take in the views of Lake Superior.

The U.P. is the perfect place to unplug and reconnect with nature. So, if you’re looking for a family vacation with a focus on outdoor activities, the Upper Peninsula is the place to go.

6. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is a great place to take the kids for a day of learning. Located in Dearborn, Michigan, the museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including a replica of the Wright Brothers’ first plane and the bus where Rosa Parks took her historic stand.

The museum also offers a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, such as the Wright Brothers’ Flight Lab and the Dymaxion House. Plus, there are several special events throughout the year, such as the annual Maker Faire and the Summer of Innovation.

No matter what your interests are, the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation is sure to provide an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family.

7. Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the city’s top attractions, and it’s the perfect place to take the kids for a day of culture and art. With more than 65,000 works of art, the museum offers something for everyone, from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces.

The DIA also offers a variety of educational programs and activities, such as gallery talks, art classes, and even a kids’ art studio. Plus, there are several special events throughout the year, such as the annual Art in the Park festival.

So, if you’re looking for a unique and educational experience for the whole family, the Detroit Institute of Arts is the perfect destination.

8. Mackinac Island

No visit to Michigan is complete without a trip to Mackinac Island. The island is known for its Victorian-era charm and stunning views of Lake Huron. Plus, it’s a car-free island, so you can explore it on foot or by bike.

The island is also home to several historic sites, such as Fort Mackinac and the Grand Hotel. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage tour or take a boat out on the lake. Plus, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.

Mackinac Island is the perfect destination for a family getaway. From its stunning views to its historic sites, the island is sure to provide a memorable experience for the whole family.

9. Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is a great destination for families looking for a mix of culture and outdoor activities. The city is home to several museums, such as the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History, as well as a variety of parks and trails to explore.

The city also offers a variety of special events throughout the year, such as the Ann Arbor Art Fair and the Ann Arbor Summer Festival. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a day of culture or outdoor adventure, Ann Arbor has something for everyone.

10. Detroit Riverfront

The Detroit Riverfront is a great destination for families looking for a day of outdoor fun. The riverfront is home to a variety of attractions, such as the Detroit RiverWalk and the Historic Fort Wayne. Plus, there are plenty of parks and trails to explore.

The riverfront also offers a variety of special events and activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and even a holiday light show. Plus, there are several restaurants and shops to explore in the area.

The Detroit Riverfront is the perfect place to take the kids for a day of outdoor adventure.

11. Detroit Historical Museum

The Detroit Historical Museum is the perfect destination for families looking for an educational experience. The museum offers a variety of exhibits, such as the Streets of Old Detroit and the Motor City exhibit. Plus, there are several interactive exhibits and activities, such as the Detroit Time Machine and the Motor City Media Lab.

The museum also offers a variety of special events, such as lectures and workshops. Plus, there are several restaurants and shops to explore in the area.

The Detroit Historical Museum offers an educational and entertaining experience for the whole family.

12. Lansing

Lansing is the perfect destination for families looking for a mix of culture and outdoor activities. The city is home to several museums, such as the MSU Museum and the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum. Plus, there are plenty of parks and trails to explore.

The city also offers a variety of special events, such as the Lansing Jazz Festival and the Capital City Film Festival. Plus, there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues to explore.

Whether you’re looking for a day of culture or outdoor adventure, Lansing has something for everyone.

Conclusion

Michigan is a great destination for families looking for fun things to do with kids. From outdoor adventure to historic sites, the possibilities are endless. From the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to the Detroit Riverfront, there’s something for everyone. So, no matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to keep the whole family entertained.