The Best Spring Break Staycation Spots in Michigan
| 4 min read
Spring break is right around the corner. Between high ticket prices, paying for gas or stressful security lines, the idea of travel for an entire family may be unappealing. This vacation season, consider staying state-side and book a trip to one of Michigan’s many family-friendly destination cities.
Springtime weather in Michigan can be unpredictable, but rain or shine, these hot spots have plenty of exciting activities and must-see attractions the whole gang will enjoy:
Ann Arbor: This college town features one of the state’s most pedestrian-friendly and vibrant downtown business districts, filled with great places to shop and dine.
- Ann Arbor Hands-on Museum: The kids will love getting creative and learning fun facts at this engaging and interactive museum, which features exhibits on a range of topics including science, technology, psychology, health, media and more.
- Kelsey Museum of Archaeology: Housing a collection of nearly 100,000 artifacts from ancient civilizations, this museum is a wealth of historical treasures that will fascinate the whole family!
- Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum: Enjoy the beauty of nature at this 300-acre garden with stunning, lush displays and outdoor hiking trails.
- Zingerman’s Delicatessen: This landmark restaurant is famous for its robust sandwiches, served on delectable, distinctive breads.
Traverse City: The inviting downtown district is packed with cafes, bars and restaurants. Beaches, inland lakes, forest trails, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and many of the state’s best wineries are all within easy striking distance.
- Great Wolf Lodge: Splish, splashy thrills abound at this 39,000 square foot indoor water park complete with slides, wave pools and even a spa for kids!
- The Great Outdoors: Enjoy exercise and fresh air by taking a family hike along one of the many stunning trails at Sleeping Bear Dunes. These impeccably cared for trails provide awe-inspiring atmospheres – from gorgeous blooming cherry blossoms to magnificent views of Lake Michigan. And if the rain is coming down, your family can get a solid dose of nature at the Boardman River Nature Center or by touring one of the town’s many historic lighthouses.
Mackinac Island: This beautiful island is a popular vacation spot for Michiganders. Overlooking the Straits of Mackinac and the Round Island Lighthouse, Mackinac Island is the perfect spot for hiking, biking (bike rental stores abound in town) and exploring what the downtown shops have to offer.
- Butterfly House Mackinac Island: This Mackinac Island staple is one of the first butterfly houses in the United States. Learn about butterflies and insects from across the world and who knows? Maybe a butterfly will land on you in the exhibit.
- Downtown Mackinac Island: Travel through the streets of Mackinac Island by foot or by bike. Visit some of the fine eateries and clothing shops across the scenic city. But, don’t forget to stop in one of the many fudge shops in Mackinac.
- Horse Carriage Ride: Want to explore Mackinac Island, but not walk or bike? Try one of the many horse-drawn carriages that travel throughout all of the island.
Grand Rapids: Far from ordinary, Grand Rapids is the perfect combination of culture and recreation, an ideal spot for families that want an itinerary full of variety. A few hot spots to add to your schedule include:
- Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park: Go during the popular Butterflies are Blooming exhibit and you’ll feel like you took the family on a tropical vacation while exploring the park’s conservatory and its many colorful butterflies.
- Grand Rapids Children’s Museum: Offering an array of educational, interactive programs and exhibits, the museum is a must-visit location for families with little kiddos.
- Higher Ground Rock Climbing: Reach new heights of fun at this indoor climbing center, which has options for climbers of all experience levels.
- The West Michigan Whitecaps: Swing for a fun time by taking the family to a baseball game. The Detroit Tigers’ affiliate starts play in April.
What are your favorite spring break spots in Michigan? Let us know in the comments.
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Photo credit: Bicho_raro
