Kids' Getaways in Michigan

It̵7;s not always easy being a kid; youngsters need a break just like their parents. When the kids have something fun and safe to do, parents can relax. Plus, when the kids collapse exhausted into bed every night, parents can enjoy some quiet time together. Michigan has a variety of activities that will give the entire family a break from the daily grind.

  1. Go to the Beach

    • Michigan is made of two peninsulas, so the access to water is unprecedented. Michigan boasts over 3,000 miles of shoreline, and this does not include the shores of 11,000 inland lakes. If your kids need a break from their everyday routine, find a beach. They are everywhere, providing respite for an afternoon or a week. Pack the sunscreen, shovels, pails and towels and find a patch of sand. While on the water, teach the kids how to fish. Michigan has many different aquatic ecosystems that are home to a wide variety of species. Michigan̵7;s Department of Natural Resources provides information about fishing opportunities and licensing requirements.

    Visit a Resort for Kids

    • The Great Wolf Lodge is located in Traverse City, which is easily accessible from anywhere in the upper and lower peninsulas. This resort was made for kids. A live-action, interactive game called MagiQuest allows kids to use magic wands to befriend a fairy and solve a variety of problems. The bowling alley is fun for the whole family, and the spa offers services for people of all ages. The resort also boasts a large waterpark that keeps kids busy year-round, as the temperature never drops below 84 degrees. A giant treehouse is the focal point of the waterpark and guarantees everyone gets soaked. A lazy river winds its way around the perimeter, and those who are feeling adventurous can ride numerous waterslides. There is even a waterslide that the whole family can ride together.

    Enjoy a Waterpark

    • Michigan is full of indoor waterparks that make an ideal getaway for kids all year long. Boyne Mountain̵7;s Avalanche Bay, in Boyne Falls, is the largest indoor waterpark in the state. There are five waterslides and splash pads for the youngest members of the family. It is so big it even has a climbing wall. In the Upper Peninsula, try the Castaway Bay Waterpark at the Fairview Beachfront Inn & Waterpark in Mackinaw City. Geysers and water cannons will keep everyone feeling cool. Hotels with waterparks can also be found in the Lower Peninsula, in Traverse City, Houghton Lake, Frankenmuth, Sterling Heights, Watervliet, Grand Rapids, Mount Pleasant and outside of Benton Harbor and Muskegon.

    Visit Mackinac Island

    • Mackinac Island is an enchanting destination for families. Cars are not allowed on the island, which is situated between the state̵7;s two peninsulas in Lake Huron. It has an historic feel and quiet atmosphere. British soldiers built Fort Mackinac during the American Revolution, and it is the oldest building in Michigan. The fort has historical exhibits and is the headquarters for Mackinac National Park, in which hiking and recreational opportunities abound. More than 80 percent of the island is conserved as Mackinac Island State Park, giving families many opportunities to play outside. Sample some fudge, fly a kite, enjoy the beaches and travel on bicycle paths and carriage tours. A week with the kids will slip by like sand through the hourglass.

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