Muskegon is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, offering a blend of natural beauty and engaging activities. Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, its picturesque beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and sandcastle building.
Families can explore one of the many state parks and hiking trails, and the city also features activities like luge runs and ice skating in the winter. Muskegon offers something for everyone in the family! (Check out our full City Guide and get hot tips for Michigan’s Adventure, too!)
Here are five fun family activities to do when you visit Muskegon:
1. USS Silversides Submarine Museum
The history buffs in your family will relish a visit to the USS Silversides Submarine Museum.
The USS Silversides is a Gato-class WWII submarine that received 12 battle stars for World War II service and was awarded one Presidential Unit Citation for cumulative action over four patrols. Visitors can learn about the submarine’s contributions to the war; read more about USS Silversides’ sister submarine, the USS Flier; and hear the stories of two soldiers who were Muskegon natives, Joe Beyrle and Robert Miller.
- Location: 1346 Bluff St., Muskegon
- Hours: 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Hours vary based on time of year.
- Phone: 231-755-1230
- Tip: Instead of a museum-only ticket, get a combination ticket, which includes admission to the submarine, cutter and museum.
- What visitors are saying: “Amazing and educational and all around great museum! Our family enjoyed it greatly and highly recommend this museum. It was very interesting seeing history hands on.” – Angela W., TripAdvisor
2. Muskegon Museum of History & Science
The Muskegon Museum of History & Science is a great place to take curious kiddos, offering a hands-on and interactive learning environment that makes science both fun and accessible.
From permanent exhibits like Body Works to temporary exhibits like The Fossil Project, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the world around them in a fun and tangible way.
- Location: 430 West Clay Ave., Muskegon
- Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday; noon-4 p.m. Saturday
- Phone: 231-722-0278
- Tip: Don’t forget to visit the state-of-the-art STEM center!
- What visitors are saying: “This place is amazing. It’s always putting on different events for kids [surrounding] STEM and history. Local residents are free and non-residents are only a few bucks. Well worth the time.” – h29h, TripAdvisor
3. Getty Drive-In Theatre
End the day with a relaxing visit to the Getty Drive-In Theater.
Bring your favorite snacks and comfort items and catch a flick the retro way. If you prefer a movie under the stars, bring lawn chairs or a blanket and sit outside your vehicle. The movie lineup is posted on Tuesday for the following weekend on the theater’s website and Facebook page.
- Location: 920 E Summit Ave., Muskegon
- Hours: Showtimes vary
- Phone: 231-733-1813
- Tip: Pack a picnic and blanket and have dinner and a movie under the stars for a memorable evening.
- What visitors are saying: “This is an old-time Drive-In. It’s a great place to go see movies. They usually show two each night and you get in for both of them. Your kids will love it.” – Jackie M., TripAdvisor
4. Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse
Visiting the Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse is a family-friendly experience that combines history with scenic beauty.
This iconic red lighthouse, situated at the entrance of Muskegon Lake, offers visitors a glimpse into the maritime heritage of the area. Take in stunning views of Lake Michigan as you walk along the pier to the lighthouse, and enjoy panoramic views after climbing to the top!
- Location: 1431 Beach St., Muskegon
- Hours: Open Memorial Day to Labor Day from 1-5 p.m. Friday-Monday
- Phone: 844-654-4487
- Tip: Make your visit even more memorable by fishing off the pier!
- What visitors are saying: “A nice walk a long way out on the water, very cool on a hot summer day. It’s adjacent to a very nice beach on Lake Michigan.” – Frank S., TripAdvisor
5. Muskegon State Park
Enjoy a beautiful beach day at Muskegon State Park! Nestled between the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan and Muskegon Lake, the park offers a diverse array of outdoor activities.
Hiking trails wind through arboreous forests and towering dunes, providing unique views and opportunities to encounter local wildlife. Visitors can swim, fish or even picnic on the beach. If you’re visiting in the winter, take part in cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or ice skating.
- Location: 3560 Memorial Drive, Muskegon
- Phone: 231-744-3480
- Tip: If you like camping, spend a night in the yurt!
- What visitors are saying: “Absolutely great state park on Lake Michigan. The park has many different areas. There is Snug Harbor which is on Muskegon Lake. There is a boat launch and picnic area. There is a trail head that leads to a trail through the woods and into the sand dunes…The best thing about the campground on the lake side is you can walk to Ruth Ann’s ice cream store. There is a blockhouse that the kids might enjoy climbing around.” – nicolediane, TripAdvisor.
There’s so much more to do in Muskegon! Check out our full City Guide and learn where to stay and eat, plus more about two gorgeous state parks and, of course, 10 tips for enjoying Michigan’s Adventure.
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.
