Traverse City With Kids: The Ultimate Family Vacation Guide

When we planned our Northern Michigan road trip, Traverse City ended up being one of the destinations I was most excited about. Between the beaches, charming downtown, nearby small towns, and easy access to Sleeping Bear Dunes, there are so many family-friendly things to do in and around Traverse City. With Traverse City with kids being so manageable, it was an easy choice for our trip.

We spent our time exploring some of the area’s most popular attractions, but there were also several places I wish we’d had time to visit. If you’re planning a family vacation to Traverse City, here’s everything I’d recommend adding to your itinerary.

Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

If you only have time for one major attraction near Traverse City, make it Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The park is located about 30 minutes west of Traverse City and offers some of the most beautiful scenery in Michigan.

Our family’s must-do list includes:

• Dune Climb
• Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
• Glen Haven Historic Village
• Empire Beach
• Scenic overlooks throughout the park

The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is great with kids because you can enjoy incredible views without committing to a long hike. The 7.4-mile loop includes overlooks of Lake Michigan, Glen Lake, and the famous dunes.

Don’t Miss: Empire and Glen Arbor

While visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes, take time to explore both Empire and Glen Arbor. These small towns have beaches, ice cream shops, local stores, and beautiful waterfront views. Many locals consider them essential stops when visiting the area.

Visit Fishtown in Leland

One of the places I’m most excited to visit is historic Fishtown in Leland. The weathered fishing shanties, docks, smokehouses, and waterfront shops make it feel like stepping back in time. Families can stroll the boardwalk, browse local shops, grab lunch, and watch boats come and go in the harbor.

After exploring Fishtown, walk over to Hall Beach for views of Lake Michigan and a beautiful sunset.

Spend Time Downtown Traverse City With Kids

A visit to Downtown Traverse City is a must. Downtown is filled with local shops, ice cream spots, family-friendly restaurants, coffee shops, and seasonal events and festivals.

I always think one of the best ways to experience a new destination is simply walking around downtown and seeing what you discover.

Relax at the Beach

Traverse City has several great beach options for families to check out.

Clinch Park

Located right along Grand Traverse Bay, this is one of the most popular family beaches in town. The shallow water and convenient downtown location make it easy to combine beach time with shopping or dining.

Empire Beach

If you’re already visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire Beach is a fantastic place to cool off after hiking or climbing dunes. Many locals recommend it as one of the best beach experiences in the area.

Drive the Scenic M-22 Route

One of the highlights of our trip is simply driving M-22. This scenic route connects many of Northern Michigan’s most beautiful destinations, including:

• Traverse City
• Suttons Bay
• Leland
• Glen Arbor
• Empire
• Sleeping Bear Dunes

The views alone make the drive worthwhile. If you visit in the fall, this view is even more gorgeous, with the leaves changing color during peak season.

Visit a Cherry Farm or Market

Traverse City is known as the Cherry Capital of the World, so sampling local cherry treats is practically required. A stop at Gallagher’s Farm Market and Bakery is a fun way to pick up baked goods, local produce, and cherry-themed treats while enjoying a family-friendly farm atmosphere.

Take a Tall Ship Sailing Adventure

For a memorable experience on Grand Traverse Bay, consider a sail with Traverse Tall Ship Company. Kids love seeing the historic schooner, and it’s a unique way to experience the bay from the water.

Play Mini Golf

If your kids are anything like mine, mini golf is always a hit. Pirate’s Cove Adventure Park is one of the most popular family attractions in the area and makes an easy evening activity after a day of sightseeing.

Visit Torch Lake on a Day Trip

Although it’s technically outside Traverse City, Torch Lake is absolutely worth the short drive. The water is famous for its Caribbean-like turquoise color, and spending a few hours swimming or relaxing on the beach is one of the best family activities in Northern Michigan.

Other Family-Friendly Things to Do in Traverse City With Kids

If you have extra time, consider adding:

• GT Butterfly House & Bug Zoo
• Great Lakes Children’s Museum
• Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area
• The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park
• Discovery Pier
• The Coin Slot for older kids and teens
• World’s Largest Cherry Pie Pan photo stop

Recap: Traverse City with Kids

Traverse City with kids is one of those destinations that offers something for every type of family. Whether you’re climbing dunes, exploring charming lakeside towns, relaxing on the beach, driving scenic roads, or enjoying cherry treats, it’s easy to understand why so many Michigan families return year after year.

For our family, the combination of Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Arbor, Empire, Leland’s Fishtown, and downtown Traverse City makes this one of the best family road trip destinations in Michigan.