Taking the family out on vacation can often be stressful to plan because everyone wants to do something different! Some people prefer the water, some the mountains, and others would rather sit inside and read a book all day. To cater to everyone in your family, read about our favorite things to do with your family summer activities in Michigan!
Need something to do that we didn’t cover below? Read our vacation guide for things to do, places to eat, and dates for festivals all over the Wolverine state.
Best Things to Do in Michigan With Your Family in the Summer
Embark on a Kayaking Tours
Michigan’s rivers, lakes, and falls are up for exploration when you sign up for a kayaking tour with the whole family. Depending on the age and experience level of everyone, you should take care on which kayak tour you choose. Kayaking in the rivers can be more intense, while the lakes and calmer shores can be great for younger adults.
Exploring a Lighthouse
The 3,000 miles of Michigan shoreline has required a network of lighthouses to help guide the sailors of the 19th and 20th centuries. Now they make for great day trips with history to find, hiking trails to walk, and great places to plan a picnic.
The best lighthouses are found in the upper peninsula, where you can take guided or self-guided tours of the UP landmarks. Some, like St. Helena Island Light, are only accessible by boat since they sit on their own islands so plan before making the trip!
Brave a Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Whitewater rafting is a quintessential big group activity. Great for family bonding, whitewater rafting takes a lot of team coordination but anyone can do it! There are several great whitewater rafting tour companies in the upper peninsula that you should try like Northwoods Adventures and Kosir’s Rapid Rafts.
Trips are available in half-day and full-day varieties and are one of the most unique ways to experience the great outdoors in the great state of Michigan.
Visit the National Traverse City Cherry Festival
A classical slice of Americana, the National Traverse City Cherry Festival is one Michigan summer event that will have you enthralled for 10 joyous days. Enjoy live music, fireworks, an air show, and of course cherries in every and all form imaginable during this late June to early July festival in sunny Traverse City, Michigan.
Plan Your Wolverine State Getaway
Whether you want to explore the wild and untamed lands of the UP, relax and rejuvenate in peaceful Eastern Michigan, step back in time in Northern Michigan, or experience thrills in West Michigan, Freshwater Vacation Rentals has the perfect home for you! Peruse our list of vacation rental homes where you can find the perfect vacation rental to fit everyone in your family!
Start planning your getaway to the Wolverine State today by booking one of our properties. We look forward to welcoming you to the Freshwater Vacation Rentals family. We love Michigan, and we know you will too!