Unmissable Outdoor Adventures in Petoskey with Kids
Top Things to Do in Petoskey for Families
This Northwest Michigan paradise has it all- warm sand, cool breezes, splashing waves and stunning sunsets. Our family loves to adventure around the Great Lakes and we recently stayed for 5 days in the beautiful town of Petoskey during the summer. I’ve rounded up a list of my favorite spots for a family while vacationing in the Petoskey area.
Beautiful Michigan Summer Day in Petoskey
There are a ton of options since family-friendly activities in Petoskey are plentiful with sandy dunes, beaches, extensive bike paths, and ample opportunities to find the elusive Petoskey Stone.
If you’ve just started planning a vacation for your family to Petoskey, look no further. We’re here to help make trip planning a breeze, just like the cool winds blowing off Little Traverse Bay.
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Filled with outdoor adventures for those who love to stay active, Petoskey is the perfect memory-making destination for your family.
Bike into town on the Little Traverse Wheelway
1. Bike the Little Traverse Wheelway
Skirting Lake Michigan, this non-motorized path is popular for bicyclists, runners, in-line skaters, and dog walkers. Our family spent half a day easily explore the area while cruising along the expansive Little Traverse Wheelway. This impressive trail covers 26 miles and passes through three beach towns, Harbor Springs, Petoskey and Charlevoix. Check out our guide with tips for biking the Wheelway. Bring your own bikes or rent them at Banoff’s.
2. Camp at Petoskey State Park
Roast a Smore at Petoskey State Park
Ooey gooey s’mores are a summer staple while camping at Petoskey State Park. Immerse yourself in nature, but still enjoy the amenities of a modern campground. In addition, this popular state park has a stretch of beach on Lake Michigan, hiking trails and opportunities to search the shorelines for the elusive Petoskey Stone while taking in the picturesque sunsets. Additional details can be found at Petoskey State Park camping guide.
3. Dive into the Waves at the Beach on Little Traverse Bay
Sandy Beach at Petoskey State Park
Dive and splash in the salt free waters along the shores of Lake Michigan. Between July- September the water is warm enough to swim. During our visit the week of July 4th, the water temperatures averaged 65-68 degrees, which was warm enough to take a dip. Bathrooms, concessions, volleyball nets and kayak rentals are located on site, they even have a handicap accessible cement path that leads to the beach with a sand wheelchair so everyone can enjoy Lake Michigan’s beauty upclose.
Sunset at Petoskey State Park
4. Watch a Sunset
Is there anything more tranquil then watching the sun sink below the horizon as the sky puts on a colorful show. Relax and reflect on your day along the shores of Lake Michigan. We really believe that West Michigan sunsets are truly the best and is a pure delight for beachgoers.
5. Ride the Old- Time Trolley
Climb aboard the old-time Trolley, which will take your through Downtown Petoskey including Kiliwins and Magnus Park. The free trip is available from Memorial Day to Labor Day and runs from 10:00am- 7:00 pm. See the schedule HERE.
6. Find the Hidden Waterfall
Waterfall in Petoskey
Located within Bayfront Park, this waterfall is tucked into the side of a rocky ledge. Once you find the narrow path, you can climb up along the side of the falls to the top for a bird’s eye view of the Petoskey area below. Kid’s will love splashing and playing in the creek and challenging their balance on the rocks leading up to the falls. Then climb the staircase to Sunset Park for an awesome view.
Staircase to Sunset Park
7. Golf at Pirate Cove’s Adventure Golf
Rrrrrr you ready for a pirate adventure? Challenge yourself to a round of putt putt golf in Petoskey. This family-friendly 18 whole mini golf course will have you putting around obstacles, through caves, and underneath waterfalls on a pirate-themed golf course.
8. Savor a Soft Pretzel
A must visit snack stop when visiting Downtown Petoskey is the Petoskey Pretzel Co. Satisfying my children’s cravings for a warm soft pretzel tops our list of bucket list stops. Situated near the Little Traverse Wheelway makes this a unmissable stop on our route or while shopping in Petoskey.
9. Dine Outside
Lucky for you, this northern Michigan area has ample restaurants that offer outdoor seating and entertainment for families. Petoskey Brewing Company, Pond Hill Farm and Backlot Beer Garden all serve up delicious dining experiences.
10. Take a Ferry To Beaver Island
Ferry Boat to Beaver Island
Known as America’s Emerald Isle, visit the beautiful destination, Beaver Island where you can hike, kayak and explore the beaches and lighthouse. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride over to the island where knowledgeable staff share about the history and life on the island.
11. Find a Petoskey Stone
Petoskey Stones and Charlevoix Stones found at Petoskey State Park
Aptly named after the town of Petoskey, this area is a treasure trove of spots that hold the elusive Petoskey Stone.
Satiate your children’s rock loving hearts with the hunt to find one of these fossilized corals, which are covered in a unique six-sided pattern and found along the northern shores of Lake Michigan and the UP.
The rocky shorelines contain both the Charlevoix Stone and Petoskey Stone. Charlevoix Stones have a smaller smaller pattern reminiscent of a honeycomb. We had the best luck at the south end of Petoskey State Park and Magnus Park.
TIP When wet, Petoskey Stones are much easier to spot on the beach, so utilize a spray bottle or a collapsible bucket and rock collecting kit.
12. Climb the Sand Dunes
Grassy, sand dunes skirt the shoreline of Lake Michigan at Petoskey State Park. These picturesque dune formations, originally caused by glacier ice melting thousands of years ago, our a child’s dream playground. My four kids can spend hours running full speed down these sandy hills.
Grassy Sand Dunes at Petoskey State Park
TIP If the temperatures are HOT, bring along socks or shoes for walking on the dunes and beach.
13. Visit the Farmer’s Market
Support local craftsman, farmers and artisans at the Petoskey Farmers Market every Friday during the summer months. Pick up a fragrant floral bouquet, load up on fresh produce or purchase some local honey.
14. Find Gnomes at Pond Hill Farm
Situated on a vineyard in nearby Harbor Springs, Pond Hill Farm’s lovely property has a host of activities.
Gnome Home at Pond Hill Farms
Savor your drink while strolling along a scenic trail as your children search for hidden Gnome homes and letters to solve the hidden message. Enjoy wine tasting, yummy pizza, a nature playscape, and live bands during the summer- there is truly something for every person to enjoy.
15. Paddle on Lake Michigan
The bay provides calm waters for paddling compared to the open waters of Lake Michigan, so it’s a great place to bring your kayaks and paddle boards or rent them at the Beach House, May- Labor Day.
Beach House, Concessions, Restrooms and Rentals Available at Petoskey State Park
While venturing out in the peaceful, early mornings the still water was smooth as glass and we had the campers beach to ourselves.
Early morning paddle boarding on the Little Traverse Bay
16. Take a Boat Ride to Fisherman’s Island
Boat ride from Lake Charlevoix out to Lake Michigan through the Pine River Channel
Spend a day on the water taking in the beauty of the area. With our friends, we set out cruising across Lake Charlevoix, then headed out to Lake Michigan through the Pine River Channel till we reached Fisherman’s Island, where we explored. This little island holds tons of Petoskey Stones for rock hunting enthusiasts.
17. Hike through Nature Trails
Steep incline on the Portage Trail at Petoskey State Park
Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to hike the areas trails, which reward you with scenic views. Get your heart pumping while climbing Old Baldy or Portage Trail at Petoskey State Park. In addition, Bear River Recreation Area and Thorne Swift Nature Preserves have easy family- friendly hikes that showcase the beauty of the area.
18. Visit Bear River Valley Recreation Area
Bear River Recreation Area Bridge Overlook
Containing a 1.5 mile nature trail, Bear River Recreation Area starts in the heart of Petoskey’s downtime and winds beside Bear River. It’s ideal for kids, who can catch views of the kayakers tackling the rapids, go under bridges and through wooded forested trails.
19. Pick up Summer Treats at Kilwins
The wafting scent of Mackinac Island Fudge, warm waffle cones and kettle corn combine for a heavenly aroma as you enter Kilwin’s Chocolate Kitchen.
Kilwins was originally founded in 1947 in Petoskey
Originally founded in 1947 in the town of Petoskey, Kilwins continues to this day to make visitor’s smile as kids and adults alike treat themselves to their favorite sweet treat. While visiting, take a self-guided tour and learn about the chocolate making process. With almost 40 different flavors of ice cream, you’re guaranteed to find something you’ll love. bonus, the shop is conveniently backs up to the Little Traverse Wheelway for a quick snack stop.
20. Rent a Pontoon Boat at Walloon Lake
Visit the Village of Walloon Lake, situated at the foot of the lake. This lovely little beach town contains cute shops and a great dining spot, Barrel Back Restaurant, which has a terrific view of Walloon Lake. Rent a pontoon boat at Tommy's. This lovely lake is calmer and warmer then Lake Michigan, so it’s super kid- friendly for swimming and boating.
21. Explore at Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
Home to a quaint nature center filled with wildlife items and interactive nature displays, your family can easily learn and play at Thorne Swift Nature Preserve. Meander at your own place through the trails, which feature interesting boardwalks, creek crossings and a small bit of shore on Lake Michigan.
22. Play at Bayfront Park
Cooling breezes and stunning views makes Petoskey’s Bayfront Park an unmissable stop while visiting Petoskey. Situated next to the bay, this modern lakefront play structure at Fred Friedli Playground is a breath of fresh air for parents.
Fred Friedli Playground at Bayfront Park
For little tykes, the toddler playscape will keep kid’s entertained while you relax and enjoy the beauty and charm of the area.
23. Visit the Petoskey Harbor Breakwater and Bayfront Lighthouse
Stroll out to the lighthouse on Petoskey Harbor Breakwater
Take the pathway to the break wall lined with massive boulders and check out the lighthouse that designates the Petoskey Harbor from the water. These prominent red and white cylindrical towers are a bright feature along the bay. To the west of the break wall is a rocky beach, Magnus Park, that is popular for rock hunting and swimming in the summer.
Watching the waves at Petoskey Pierhead Lighthouse
24. Visit a Fish Hatchery
A unique experience in the area is touring the Oden’s Fish Hatchery facility as you learn about the DNR operations and discover facts about the trout in Michigan waters. Explore near the large ponds and view the sizeable trout which you can feed when visiting the Oden Fish Hatchery.
25. Treat Yourself to Tom’s Mom’s Cookies
This well-known local spot in Harbor Springs has been baking some of the best cookies in Michigan since 1985. It’s not uncommon to have a line of patrons trailing outside of Tom’s Mom’s Cookies eagerly waiting for bite of these tasty morsels.
26. Pick Lavender
Michigan’s lavender hits their peak bloom time in the month of July. Visit Lavender Hill Farm in Boyne City this summer, especially on Fridays when they celebrate “Fridays on the Farm” with crafts for the kids, activities, yoga, and more.
27. Go Fishing
Lime Kiln Fishing Pier, situated along the Little Traverse Wheelway, is a kid’s only fishing pond. Your kid’s can try their luck at catching a trout, which are stocked by the Oden Fish Hatchery. The pond includes a fishing platform with rails and a wheelchair ramp so all children can access the fishing area.
28. Stroll Downtown and Shop
Petoskey’s downtown area has an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, bakeries and candy shops. Remember your time in Petoskey by grabbing a souvenir. Pick up a Petoskey Stone or jewelry at Grandpa’s Shorter’s Gifts, grab lunch at Julienne’s Tomatoes or just stroll around downtown.
29. Attend a Festival or Fireworks
Summers in Petoskey are packed full of exciting events. Schedule your trip so you can attend the Annual Summer Art Show, music festivals or the Balloons over Bay Harbor. Check out all the events here.
The 4th of July is a prime time to visit the area. Both Petoskey and Harbor Springs shoot off fireworks for a spectacular show celebrating America’s independence. We loved camping at the state park during the holiday weekend.
Looking for additional places for the 4th of July, check out this detailed list of The Best Places to Camp in Michigan During the 4th of July.
30. Stay Overnight in Petoskey
Petoskey is the perfect family summer vacation getaway. If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Petoskey with your children, we’ve listed a couple family-friendly options. This inviting town has a wide range of available lodgings bed and breakfast or hotels with pools. Check out the best deals at Bookings.com. Maybe you prefer a cozy cottage, a large house for multiple families, or a private hot tub then VRBO makes it simple to find just what you’re looking for your vacation.
Cottage Rentals in Petoskey
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Petoskey This IHG Hotel is situated 7 miles from the state park and is a great option to explore the area. Kid’s will love the indoor pool, while parents will appreciate the included breakfast, plus all the modern amenities that families desire.
A great option for families, the hotel features a swimming pool, free self parking, and a prime location close to Bear River Recreation Area, Downtown Petoskey and Lake Michigan.
Inn and Bay Harbor Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, this luxurious hotel is the place to stay if you want to treat yourself to gorgeous views, spa services, free bikes, and a spacious outdoor pool.
Crooked River Lodge Escape into nature to a rustic lodge, while only being a mere 15 minutes from Petoskey. Enjoy features like an indoor swimming pool, delicious breakfast and firepit for campfires.
Courtyard by Mariott This modern hotel will satisfy every need of your family. Located near Downtown Petoskey, with an indoor pool, breakfast and modern amenties.
What to Pack / Tips for Visiting Petoskey
Bikes This area is packed with biking opportunities and is a great way to explore the town.
Tripod/ Selfie Stick Capture your favorite moments with this dual remote timer tripod and selfie stick.
Beach Toys Make sure to pack your beach chairs, coolers, beach towels, swim suits, and toys for a full day at the beach.
Sandals/ Water Shoes While searching for Petoskey stones along the rocky shore, your toes will greatly appreciate water shoes or sandals
Bucket/ Sprayer / Sifter The distinct pattern of Petoskey and Charlevoix stones can be seen more readily when stones are wet. Utilizing a collapsible bucket and rock collecting kit is definitely helpful.
Final Thoughts
This Great Lake’s northern region is a true paradise on Little Traverse Bay with a wide range of recreational activities for those that love to stay active. As life long Michiganders, we hope this article has helped highlight some of the ideal spots for kids you can add to your bucket list when visiting Petoskey.
Centrally based, Petoskey is surrounded by neighboring towns including Harbor Springs, Boyne City and Charlevoix, which are fun to explore if you have the time. You’re bound to have a memorable experience in the Little Traverse Bay area.
Little Traverse Bay
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