Located along the stunning shores of Lake Michigan in the northwest lower peninsula, Sleeping Bear Dunes tops the list of unique places for families to visit in Michigan. Here, you’ll experience stunning views and find lots of opportunities for spending time in nature. There’s plenty to explore here — on your own or through an organized tour.
When you explore Sleeping Bear Dunes as a family, your kids will be thrilled by the natural landscapes — and all the sand! Plan your trip thoughtfully and be prepared to hike.
Here, we share some great options to get you started.
(Be sure to check out our other guides to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Find out where to stay, what to eat, the best trails and scenic drives and what’s nearby to explore, too!)
Exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes as a family
Climbing the dunes is exhilarating — a must try. When making your plan, follow the recommendations of the National Park Service and head to the Dune Climb located north of Empire on M-109. You can climb up to view beautiful Glen Lake at the top and then let gravity help you down where the parking lot and picnic area await you at the bottom.
There is also a playground visitors love. The Dune Center, which has a park store and restrooms, is located at the same spot.
What families say:
- A customer review on Trip Advisor: “Definitely stop by the visitor center and ask to watch the short film as it’s very informative about the park and some of the native history.”
- Another reviewer on Trip Advisor said: “If you like hiking and exploring nature, this is a great place to do it.”
Looking for a challenge? Hike the Dunes Trail to Lake Michigan. This is a 3.5 mile trail that is all sand, so climbing is both challenging and strenuous. But the reward is worth it.
Wear sturdy shoes, bring lots of water and get ready to see some pretty unforgettable views. The National Park service recommends sticking together as a group and keeping children within sight, as hiking through the dunes can become disorienting. There’s a LOT of sand.
Tours and excursions at the dunes
Choosing to take a tour of the dunes is a great option for families. Here are some great options:
- There are bus tours available, led by park volunteers who provide history about the dunes and point out special features. These tours last about 2.5 hours and visitors have the chance to get off the bus at some overlooks.
- Or, get an expert perspective through a ranger-led program. These programs range from hikes to bike rides and are fun for all ages. Find the perfect day and time for your family on this calendar of ranger-led programs.
- There are also heritage tours led by Preserve Historic Sleeping Bear, which guide you through the historic properties in the park. These summer-only tours offer rich history and an entertaining wagon ride. They’re on Thursdays at 3:30 and 5 p.m., last 75 minutes and cost $30 for adults and $20 for children 4-12.
Your kid can be a Junior Ranger!
Becoming a Junior Ranger gives your kids street cred and bragging rights about their experiences at Sleeping Bear Dunes.
If your child wants to become a Junior Ranger, all they need to do is pick up a ranger activity book, fill it out along their explorations, and return it to the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center.
An underwater surprise waiting to be discovered
There are two shipwrecks to discover along the shore of Sleeping Bear Point. They are both observable from land and can be reached by hiking the Dune Climb trail, kayaking from Glen Haven or walking along the shoreline. Explorations like this are what make this place so unique. Ask your kids and see what they think.
No matter how you choose to see the dunes, you and your family are sure to have a wonderful time. Pack sturdy shoes and lots of water and go make some great memories.
Keeping reading our Sleeping Bear Dunes City Guide to learn:
- Where to stay and what to eat … plus why go?
- The best trails and scenic drives
- Three towns nearby to explore and enjoy
Content sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Learn more at buyfordnow.com. Find more road trip guides and full city guides at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
