18 Outdoor Adventures to Do with Kids In Michigan Before They Turn 18

Michigan Summer Bucket List for Kids

Two facts I know to be true; childhood is fleeting and Michigan summers are quite lovely. Sadly, we only get 18 summers before our children will go off to college or leave our home for the next stage of their lives. During their time in my home, I want to leave them with wonderful memories that will last a lifetime.

That’s why as a parent, I want to be intentional about making the most of our summertime with outdoor family adventures swimming, camping and exploring. Thankfully, without ever leaving the state of Michigan, you can have a wide array of memorable experiences, whether it’s a Michigan day trip or a week long vacation.

As a lifelong Michigan resident who’s traveled extensively throughout the Great Lakes state, this list I’ve created includes my favorite outdoor experiences. While narrowing it down, I’ve selected both lesser known destinations and popular one-of-kind experiences that can only be found in the great state of Michigan. Here are eighteen suggestions of things to do in Michigan with kids before they turn 18, the vast majority of the experiences are inexpensive or free with a recreation passport that gives you entry to all Michigan state parks.

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Without further ado, here is my Michigan summer bucket list for kids! By no means is this an extensive list; it really only skims the sandy surface of the expansive beauty found in the Great Lake State, but it will get you started. Whether you’re visiting Michigan for the first time or a lifelong resident, we’ve got you covered as we dive into these unmissable spots in Michigan.

1. Climb a Lighthouse

Climb Little Sable Point Lighthouse by Silver Lake

With miles and miles of shoreline, and over 115 lighthouses dotting the coast of the Great Lakes, visiting a lighthouse is a bucket list must for children. The experience of climbing up the circular staircase to the top of a Michigan lighthouse is quite exciting for both young and old, especially as you gain access to a birds-eye view for miles. With a vast range of lighthouses, each unique in their own way, from historical museums, catwalks, and even ones with visitor centers to explore. Grand Traverse Lighthouse has a restored light house keepers dwellings and kids can go on a treasure hunt through the lighthouse. Many of the lighthouses you can tour such as Little Sable Point Lighthouse at Silver Lake State Park or Big Sable Lighthouse in Ludington, which are open from 9-5pm.

2. Bike Around Mackinac Island

Scenic 8 Mile loop around Mackinac Island

Experience a delightful bike ride along the coast of Michigan’s most famous island. Rich in history, delectable fudge and gorgeous views, Mackinac Island is one of the most iconic destinations in Michigan. Vehicles are not allowed on the island, so during your stay embrace walking, biking or take a carriage ride to explore the many sites. With so many activities, you’re bound to make some unforgettable memories on a day trip with kids to Mackinac Island. We choose to bring our bikes with us on the ferry to save money, but they also have hundreds of bike rentals, including tandem styles and bike trailers for young children.

3. Find a Petoskey Stone

Rocks to children are like treasure. Luckily the Great Lakes State is home to many unique fossils to satiate your little treasure hunters, specifically the elusive Petoskey Stone.

Claiming the title of Michigan’s state stone, Petoskey stones are a form of fossilized coral, which have a distinct 6 sided honeycomb pattern on their surfaces. Rock collecting children will love searching for these unique stones.

Rock hunting

You may be asking yourself where are the best places to find Petoskey Stones in Michigan? Thankfully, Michigan is home to hundreds of public beaches where you can hunt till your hearts are content and pockets are full. Here is a rock hunting guide which details the best locations and unique rocks to find in Michigan. Spend a fare amount of time along the shorelines of Lake Michigan and you’ll spot visitor’s bent over shuffle or using a sand sifter as they search for the distinct Petoskey Stone.

These highly sought after commodities are predominately found along Lake Michigan’s shoreline in the northwestern Lower Peninsula, near Petoskey and Charlevoix. Additional the shores of Lake Superior in the Upper Peninsula are a treasure trove, especially after storms or when the ice melts in the spring. Polish and smooth these special stones with a Rock Tumbler, this one has been running nonstop in our basement since we opened it. It includes everything you need to create polished gemstones and smooth rocks.

4. Conquer a Sand Dune

Climb sand dunes at Warren Dunes State Park

Running helter skelter down a sand dune, legs and arms bicycling furiously and then culminating with an epic faceplant is a right of passage for any Michigan resident. All along Lake Michigan’s shores there are opportunities to explore sand dunes whether it’s climbing, sandboarding, riding or rolling down these sandy mountainous hills.

Undeniably Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, is the most famous sand dunes in Michigan. Other notable places to get your sandy fix include Saugatuck Dunes State Park and in Sawyer, Michigan at Warren Dunes State Park, which provide a beautiful stretch of dunes that rise 260 feet above the lake for stunning views.

Mac Dune Rides at Silver Lake State Park

Want additional thrills, Silver Lake State Park offers a unique adventure with the chance to actually ride on the dunes. Silver Lake is one of the most popular destinations in the Midwest for those wanting to ride on nearly 2,000 acres of sand dunes. Thousands flock to this sand-packed beach town because of it’s unique location. With multiple options you can bring your own ATV’s, rent, or go on a private guided experience like Mac Wood Dune Rides. This lively beach town of Mears, Michigan has family-friendly activities and gorgeous beaches to explore too. Perfect for a Michigan family vacation.

5. Splash in the Whirlpool Fountain Compass in Saint Joseph

Whirl Pool Compass Fountain by Silver Beach, Michigan

Giggles from the lips of children and splashes abound at the Whirlpool Compass Fountain in Saint Joseph. This Michigan beach town is one of the best kid-friendly spots to enjoy this summer! Every 15 minutes, water cannons propel bursts of water 35 feet into the air, thoroughly soaking beachgoers with a cooling spray. Afterwards kids can play in the splash pad until the next thrilling blast. After a hot day swimming at Lake Michigan, it’s a refreshing way to rinse off the sand.

During your vacation, spend hours soaking in the summer sun, diving into waves, and building sand castles on the soft, sandy shores of Silver Beach. It’s an ideal Michigan day trip for kids, since families can easily fill a whole day or two exploring the Curious Kid’s Museum, riding the historic 1910 carousel and finishing the day off with a delicious slice of Silver Beach Pizza.

6. Pick Blueberries in Southwest Michigan

Few things in life taste better than warm, sun-kissed blueberries plopped straight in your mouth. Beginning early July and lasting through August, blueberries are ripe and ready for picking in Southwest Michigan. Head over and support local area U-pick farms this summer, the vast majority which are family owned and operated. Thanks to Michigan’s lake effect and unique soils, Lake Michigan’s shoreline is a sustainable environment for blueberries and is one of the largest producers in the WORLD. Visit Southwest Michigan Blueberry Farms this summer and pick your fill of these delectable blue pearls. You can even go glamping at a Berry Farm at the The Fields of Michigan, near South Haven, for an epic bucket list experience.

7. Stargaze at a Designated Dark Sky Area

Gaze in wonder at the night sky without light pollution at one of Michigan’s 6 designated sky parks such as Wilderness State Park, Port Crescent State Park, and Thompson’s Harbor State Park. Bonus, you can stay until the wee hours of the night because in 2022, the DNR changed the rules and now allows access 24/7 to the dark sky areas, whereas most day-use state parks close by 10 pm.

In addition, the Upper Peninsula has an International Dark Sky Park in Copper Harbor at Keweenaw Mountain Lodge. If you’re up near Mackinaw City, another wonderful spot is the Headlands Dark Sky Park which host special events and frequently allow the use of a large telescope available to the community to observe the sky up close.

8. Hunt for Yooperlites

Go on a glowing scavenger hunt along the shoreline of Lake Superior’s beaches to find Yooperlites. By utilizing a black light at night, you can comb the rocky shores in search of these elusive fluorescent rocks that can only be found under ultraviolet light. In 2017 they were first discovered in the Upper Peninsula and since have become a much desired addition to any rock hounds collections, check out this rock collecting guide to learn more about these hidden treasures.

9. Watch Fireworks on the Beach

Skies illuminated with blasts of dazzling colored lights will put a look of wonder on any child’s face. The Great Lakes have numerous scenic locations ideal for a beautiful backdrop of fireworks on the Fourth of July. We’ve rounded up some of the best towns that curate spectacular firework displays, parades and outdoor festivities, plus a detailed list of camping locations. Plan ahead so you don’t miss the fun events! Here are the Best places to watch the fireworks in Michigan.

10. Take a Boat Ride

Ferry Ride under Mackinac Bridge

It goes without saying, Michigan isn’t lacking in water. From glass bottom boat tours to ferry rides, there are ample opportunities to experience the beauty afloat on the Great Lakes.

In only 2.5 hours, the Lake Michigan Express Ferry will passage you over to Milwaukee, Wisconsin from Muskegon. Or take the S.S. Badger, which is the last coal-fired passenger steamship in the United States. Operating trips for the last 70 years they sail across from Ludington, Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin.

Another opportunity is to take the ferry is when visiting Mackinac Island, the short, 15-30 minute, ride to the island is ideal for children. St. Ignace or Mackinaw City are the two locations for ferry access to get across to Mackinac Island State Park. Scheduled daily trips are available with Starline Ferry, which is the quickest option; while Shepler’s takes a more scenic route and will take you under the Mackinac Bridge.

Shepler’s Ferry

Desiring a memorable day trip or overnight adventure. Two remote, rugged islands you need to visit are South and North Manitou Island. Both can be accessed by a ferry ride. From South Manitou ferries arrive/leave twice a day so you will have plenty of time to explore the island. Want a challenge, camp overnight as you backpack around North Manitou Island.

One of the most stunning boat trips you can experience, is aboard a glass-bottom boat tour to discover the shipwrecks in Lake Superior near Munising by Picture Rocks National Lakeshore. You won’t regret adding a boat tour or ferry ride to your Michigan summer bucket list.

Picture Rocks

11. Visit the Upper Peninsula

Get away to the Upper Peninsula, where you’ll discover rugged forested trails, picturesque waterfalls and quiet solitude. Get ready to log miles on the open roads as you explore this expansive area. Notable places to visit are Tahquamenon Falls and stunning formations at Pictured Rock. Journey to the far edge of the Upper Peninsula to the Porcupine Mountains, and stop at the western edge of the park, to view the series of falls at Presque Isle Waterfall Loop, where the river flows to meet up with Lake Superior. Furthermore, Sault Ste. Marie is a pleasant stop as you can watch the freighters maneuver through the locks. With such a vast expanse, you could easily spend weeks exploring the Upper Peninsula.

Presque Isle Water Fall Loop in the Upper Peninsula

12. Camp at a Michigan State Park

Tent camp at Michigan State Park

With 108 Michigan State Parks, the possibilities are endless for where to camp. In my opinion, every child should have a chance to get out of their comfort zones and create fond, and often hilarious memories in nature as you gather around a fire roasting marshmallows, perhaps enduring the occasional mishap or rainy night while camping. Either way you’re guaranteed to have some unforgettable stories to tell later.

Even if you don’t own your own camper or tent, numerous Michigan state parks have cabins, yurts and even hammock sites that you can reserve. It can be hard to narrow down where to camp, so here is a list of the best campgrounds for kids at Michigan State Parks which have kid-friendly beaches, restrooms and playgrounds. Reservations can be made 6 month in advance at the Michigan State Park Reservation website. A Recreation Passport is required for entry to Michigan State Parks, you can find additional details here.

Geodome located at Port Crescent State Park

13. Attend a Flower Festival

Bask in the sunshine as you pick fragrant lavender, stroll through a field of wildflowers or take Instagram-worthy photos among tulips. There is no shortage of Michigan flower festivals, botanical gardens, and sunflowers fields to choose from. Michigan also has tons of amazing gardens to visit from Frederik Meijers in Grand Rapids to Dow Gardens in Midland, all the way to Detroit’s gorgeous Belle Isle.

Be surrounded by beauty as you usher in the spring and summer months by visiting one of these lovely towns filled with bountiful blooms. Checkout the Michigan Bloom Guide to see the best flower festivals occurring throughout Michigan. You’re children will love it.

14. Cross the Mackinac Bridge

Stretching across the expanse of water, the Mackinac Bridge is an engineering masterpiece. Connecting the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, this five mile long bridge, also known as the Mighty Mac, took well over 3 years to complete. It spans the Straits of Mackinac, a body of water that connects two of the Great Lakes; Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.

Mackinac Bridge

During your visit, stop in Mackinaw City at Mama Mia’s Pizza. While you’re waiting for your food, head upstairs to discover the history and construction of the bridge at the FREE Mackinac Bridge Museum. There are dozens of attractions in Mackinaw City you can enjoy with your kids. Not to mention, stopping by Mackinac Island via ferry boat ride to experience the charm and beauty of the island.

15. Slide Down a Waterfall

The Upper Peninsula has numerous waterfalls, but there is one special gem in the Lower Peninsula that is definitely worth a stop, especially if you’ve ever wanted to swim in a waterfall.

Luckily you can slip and slide down Ocqueoc Falls, the only natural occurring waterfall in the Lower Peninsula. Featuring a short (.03 mile) paved, handicap accessible pathway and a boardwalk bridge that leads alongside the scenic river trail, it’s great for toddler legs. A picnic area and wooded trails make it’s an ideal spot to relax in nature. During warmer months, take a dip in the flowing waters. The natural rock formations, plus the rocks have been piled up by swimmers creating unique runs that create a waterslide of sorts.

Oqueoc Falls

16. Swim in the Great Lakes

Saugatuck Dunes State Park

Salt free waters are one of the best features of Michigan’s Great Lakes. Luckily, the mitten state has shores on four of the Great Lakes: Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior so you don’t have to travel far to hit their shorelines.

Diving head first into the waves and letting the water caress your body is a thrilling experience for anyone. Splash and play on the sandy shores, run down sand dune, hunt for rocks, build a sand castle and watch the sunk sink down sounds like a perfect summer day. Michigan is home to hundreds of public beaches and beautiful state parks on Lake Michigan, Lake Erie, Lake Huron and Lake Superior. Some of our favorite beaches include Ludington, Ottawa Beach in Holland, Warren Dunes, Grand Haven, South Haven, Silver Beach, Copper Harbor, and Muskegon.

17. See a Windmill in Holland

Holland Tulips

Experience authentic Dutch culture without ever stepping out of Michigan. Holland comes alive, especially during Tulip Time Festival in May, as the entire town celebrates the bountiful blooms of spring tulips with parades, windmills, Dutch dancing and festivities. Visit Nelis Dutch Village and ride the carousel and make stroopwafels cookies. Don’t miss viewing the De Zwann Windmill, a 251 year-old authentic windmill set against rows of brightly colored blooms. Easily spend a weekend exploring the best things to do in Holland with Kids as you enjoy Ottawa Beach, climb Mt Pisgah, explore Holland State Park, bike to Tunnel Park and zipline at the Outdoor Discovery Center. The Old Dutch attractions found in Holland, Michigan are always fun and family-friendly.

18. Hike Island Trail Loop in Ludington

Lost Island Lake Trail at Ludington State Park

By far the most popular and scenic hike at the Ludington State Park, is Island Trail Loop. This trail has gorgeous views around every turn of the path. This 2.1 mile loop trail is perfect for all ages, particularly entertaining for children with tons of interesting features along the way. Rated easy, besides the stairs climb and dune climb its manageable for younger children. The loop leads leads beside the lake and through islands, over boardwalks, and up a series of staircases to open up at the top of a sandy dune. A truly picture worthy spot that kids will love running down the dune, cooling of at the sandy bottom of the clear water. We recommend going clockwise on the loop. Ludington State Park has 21 miles of trails, camping amenities, Hamlin Dam, accessible playground and expansive Lake Michigan beach. Check out our full trip guide to Ludington State Park before visiting.

Final Thoughts

With the wide spread beauty of the Great Lakes, no matter what outdoor activities and adventures you chose it’s sure to be a memorable summer. You won’t regret adding these 18 unforgettable experiences to your list from crossing the Mackinac Bridge, running down a sand dune, riding a ferry, visiting a butterfly garden or searching for an elusive Yooperlite. You’re sure to make fun family memories during your adventures! Luckily, the vast majority of these amazing experience are completely free or only require a recreation passport to get into a Michigan state park. Make sure to Pin and Save for later as you add these stunning destination spots to your child’s Michigan bucket list.

Follow Discovering Anew for more Michigan adventures and tips to help make planning your next vacation or Michigan day trip easier. Need additional help with choosing which Michigan state park to visit this summer then check out theses camping reviews below. If you found this helpful, please share with a friend. We’re constantly producing new content and strive to create honest reviews.

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