Traverse City, hidden in the heart of Michigan, is perfect for families seeking a mixture of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Being from Chicago, Traverse is a city that is great for a road trip, especially during the summer time. There is nothing more beautiful that the northern part of Michigan. Our family trip to this charming destination was nothing short of awesome, and I’m very excited to share our itinerary of things to do in Traverse City with kids, starting with our cozy lodging at Timberline Campground in Benzonia.
Lodging: Timberline Campground in Benzonia
We chose Timberline Campground not only for its serene ambiance and family-friendly atmosphere but because camping is one of our family’s favorite things to do. This RV campground, filled with cleanliness, offers a great choice for lodging. With only three tent sites, it’s perfect for those seeking a more intimate camping experience. The two pools provided refreshing breaks from our exploration, and while the playground was a bit of a hike from our tent site, the peace and quiet were well worth it. The campground had one of the cleanest bathrooms as far as campgrounds go.
1. Canoeing and Kayaking
Paddle along Platt River. Embrace the tranquility of nature with a family kayaking adventure on the Platt River. Riverside Canoes and Kayaks offer a variety of options, including double kayaks for family fun. Navigate the gentle currents, discover a sandbar paradise on Loon Lake, and let the river guide you to where it meets the majestic Lake Michigan. There you will find a beach, stunning views, and playful currents for the little ones. Pack a waterproof bag with snacks and enjoy the day exploring the scenic waterways. One of the coolest things that we experienced during kayaking was the sand bars. Apparently this is thing in Michigan. I was not aware of what sand bars were until this visit. Basically for those who are not sure (like I was), it is an area in the middle of the water where the water is shallow and you there is sand underneath (hence the name). We spent a good hour swimming and playing around the sandbar. At the end of the kayak tour, we went swimming into Lake Michigan. We brought a cooler and had a picnic before diving into lake Michigan.
2. Sleeping Bear Dunes:
Challenge your little adventurers with a hike up the Sleeping Bear Dunes. The 1.5-mile climb rewards you with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. The climb could be diffult for some and beause of the climb, it takes quiet some time. It took our family about an hour and a half to get to the end. It was worth every climb because the water was one of the clearest blue Lake Michigan waters. The beach was wide open as most people generally don’t climb to the end. It was beautiful sand as you can see in the 3rd picture. For an extra treat, make your way to stop #27 for a crystal-clear beach. Note to the brave: #9’s steep descent could cost you $3000 if you are unable to climb back up, so proceed with caution or simply savor the view from the top.
Tip: buy the parking pass for the 7 days($24) or the year ($45). Parking at the Dunes costs $25 each time as of 2022 (be sure to check current prices).
3. Great Lakes Children’s Museum:
For a blend of education and entertainment, head to the Great Lakes Children’s Museum. This interactive museum caters to young minds with hands-on exhibits that encourage creativity and curiosity. From water play to mini art studios, it’s a delightful stop for kids of all ages.
4. Clinch Park and Beach:
Spend a day soaking up the sun at Clinch Park and Beach. This family-friendly spot offers sandy shores, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Let the kids splash in the water while you relax with a stunning view of Grand Traverse Bay. The nearby marina adds an extra touch of maritime charm.
5. Tall Ship Sailing:
Traverse City offers the opportunity to board these impressive vessels and set sail on the stunning waters of Lake Michigan. It’s an unforgettable experience for the whole family, providing a unique perspective of Traverse City’s beauty from the deck of a historic tall ship.
6. The Little Fleet: Food Truck Haven
A gathering of food trucks offered a decent meal, and a stroll along the riverwalk and lakeside park make the experience even more fun. The food trucks had a variety of foods from Texas BBQ to Korean to American. They had a lot of great options. One thing we noticed is that there was not a lot of food delivery options, be prepared if you are staying in the neighboring towns.
7. Moomers Homemade Ice Cream:
Cap off your Traverse City adventure with a visit to Moomers Homemade Ice Cream. Voted one of the best ice cream parlors in the U.S., Moomers offers delicious flavors in a charming farm setting. Enjoy your scoops while taking in scenic views of the surrounding countryside. We could definitely see why the place was filled with people. It was nice to not only enjoy the ice cream, but to also sit outside and enjoy the beautiful views of their farm.
8. Visit a Lighthouse:
Explore Michigan’s maritime history by visiting one of Traverse City’s iconic lighthouses. The Grand Traverse Lighthouse, located in Leelanau State Park, offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
9. Head to a Beach Park:
No Traverse City adventure is complete without a day at the beach. Traverse City’s numerous beach parks, including Clinch Park Beach or Greilickville Harbor Park which offer perfect settings for family fun.
In the end, Traverse City is a family friendly destination waiting to be explored. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the most memorable journeys lie just beyond the obvious tourist stops. With many things to do in Traverse City with kids, this Northern Michigan gem invites families to create cherished memories together.