Michigan

Michigan is a fantastic destination for families, with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 5-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in the Great Lakes State!

Day 1: Arrival in Detroit

Morning:

• Arrive in Detroit and check into your hotel. The Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center is a great family-friendly option with beautiful views of the river.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Detroit Institute of Arts. The museum has a fantastic collection, and the Diego Rivera murals are a must-see! Kids often enjoy the interactive exhibits.

Evening:

• Grab dinner at Buddy’s Pizza, famous for its Detroit-style pizza. The kids will love the cheesy goodness!

Day 2: Detroit to Ann Arbor

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a short drive to Ann Arbor (about 45 minutes). Start your day at the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History. The dinosaur exhibits are always a hit with kids!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a picnic lunch at Gallup Park. There are playgrounds, trails, and even canoe rentals if you’re feeling adventurous!

Evening:

• Explore downtown Ann Arbor and have dinner at Zingerman’s Deli. Their sandwiches are legendary, and there’s something for everyone!

Day 3: Traverse City Adventure

Morning:

• Depart early for Traverse City (about 4 hours). The drive is beautiful, especially as you get closer to the lakes.

Afternoon:

• Once you arrive, head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Climb the dunes for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. The kids will love running down the sandy hills!

Evening:

• Have dinner at The Cherry Republic. They offer a variety of cherry-themed dishes, and the kids can enjoy some cherry soda or ice cream!

Day 4: Explore Traverse City

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit the Great Lakes Children’s Museum. It’s interactive and perfect for younger kids, with hands-on exhibits that are both fun and educational.

Afternoon:

• Spend the afternoon at Clinched Lake. You can rent kayaks or paddleboards, or just relax on the beach. Pack a beach bag with snacks and enjoy some family time by the water!

Evening:

• For dinner, check out Moomer’s Homemade Ice Cream. It’s a local favorite, and the flavors are out of this world!

Day 5: Mackinac Island Day Trip

Morning:

• Depart early for Mackinac Island (about 1.5 hours to the ferry). Once you arrive, rent bikes to explore the island. There are no cars allowed, so it’s a safe and fun way to get around!

Afternoon:

• Visit Fort Mackinac and learn about the island’s history. The kids will love the reenactments! Afterward, grab lunch at The Pink Pony with a view of the harbor.

Evening:

• Before heading back, indulge in some famous Mackinac Island fudge. It’s a sweet way to end your trip! Take the ferry back and drive back to your hotel in Detroit.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly, as Michigan can be unpredictable!
• Don’t forget your camera; there are so many beautiful spots to capture!
• Consider downloading some family-friendly podcasts or audiobooks for the drives.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Michigan! Enjoy your trip! 🌟