Discover the family-friendly side of Traverse City, where adventure is at every bend for families seeking an indelible getaway. From rustic outdoor adventures in Sleeping Bear Dunes to downtown activities, Traverse City caters to all tastes. It offers a picturesque retreat adorned with quaint towns spread out, unspoiled landscapes, and abundant opportunities for memories to be made. Honored in the 2024 Good Housekeeping Best Family Travel Awards as a Three-in-One Vacation gem, Traverse City promises an unforgettable experience. Whether your family includes children of any age, the warmer months proffer a bounty of exploration and play to relish.

Creating fun memories and discovering a town that your family enjoys on vacation is vital for bonding, fostering positive associations with family time, promoting learning and growth, relieving stress, spending quality time together, building traditions, and reaping health benefits through enjoyable activities. These experiences strengthen family ties, encourage future adventures, and contribute to overall happiness and well-being.

Places Downtown Traverse City:

There is a lot of activities to do downtown Traverse CIty rain or shine. Some of our favorite places include where to go for a snack! But that’s not all there is to do.

• Pangea’s Pizza

• The Coin Slot

• Handz on Art

• Shopping for candy & vintage treats at RocketFizz

• Traverse Area District Library

Outdoor and On-The-Water adventures:

Enjoy the many beaches that Grand Traverse, Benzie and Leelanau County have to offer! Spend a day at Clinch Park Beach, where kids can build sandcastles, swim, and enjoy the playground. West End Beach offers a quieter atmosphere, perfect for family relaxation and water activities, or make day trip to leland and visit Vans Beach and The Cove for lunch. 

• Tall Ships Manitou Moomers Ice Cream Cruise

• Mini Golf @ Pirates Cove

• Great Lakes Children’s Museum

• Great Wolf Lodge

• Splash Pad at Clinch Park

• Rent Bikes & Ride: Get ready to explore the scenic beauty of the Tart Trail by renting bikes from Brick Wheels!

• Fruit and Flower Picking: A fantastic way to engage with local agriculture, especially with kids, is by getting a bit dirty while picking fruits and flowers. Not only is the experience rewarding, but there's nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked fruit. Recommended spots include Buchan’s Blueberry Hill on the Old Mission Peninsula for blueberries from mid-July to August and Moondance Flower Farm, where you can create a bouquet of seasonal blooms.

Unique Experiences:

• Rainbow Valley Family Farms

• JCs Ooasis: Cuddle the baby goats, feed the horse, pet the pigs and enjoy lunch on the farm! JC’s Ooasis serves as a rescue and to help others learn about and enjoy farm life!

• Elev8 Climbing Gym

• Historic Tour of The Commons: Traverse City’s Old State Hospital & Asylum