When you’re at Sleeping Bear Dunes, you have to take advantage of the charming and family-friendly towns nearby. From quaint shops to scenic parks to educational tours, your family will love exploring these one-of-a-kind places.
The area surrounding Sleeping Bear Dunes is filled with opportunities for outdoor activities like boat rentals and hikes along the shore. There are also tons of museums and exhibits to explore as a family, and beloved restaurants to enjoy between all the fun. Between the big views, tasty eats and all there is to see and learn, there’s something for everyone in your family.
Be sure to explore our other guides for Sleeping Bear Dunes to discover:
- Where to stay, what to do and what to eat
- The best trails and scenic drives
- How to explore all that sand!
Here are three towns around Sleeping Bear Dunes with great opportunities for family fun:
Visit Glen Arbor
What to know: When you find yourself near Sleeping Bear Dunes, exploring Glen Arbor is a must. Located near the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Glen Arbor is full of stunning views and lots of outdoor activities for families, like boat rentals and scenic trails.
Where to eat: There are some great options for families looking for a meal including Bear Paw Pizza and Market, where you’ll find homemade pizza, subs and salads. At Boonedocks, a family favorite with a cozy indoor and outdoor atmosphere, get ready for an all-American menu with half-pound burgers, fresh local whitefish, perch, and sandwiches (kids meals too!). Whiskers at The Homestead offers great food and features outdoor firepits, a splash pad for kids and family games. Grab some ice cream with the kids at Cherry Public House and enjoy the charm of downtown.
Things to do: Summer in Glen Arbor is especially fun, with weekly farmers markets every Tuesday from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. outside at the Township Hall. Explore the local art galleries featuring exhibits and events, and make sure to keep an eye out for the Glen Lake Woman’s Club Art Fair. This fair is typically held the third Wednesday in July from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and offers lots to look at with carefully selected artists and one-of-a-kind pieces for sale. Admission is free and it’s always a great time for visitors.
Explore Empire
What to know: Empire, named after a ship that was trapped in ice near this small town in the mid-19th century, is a fantastic spot to explore with your family. Located centrally along the M-22 highway, Empire is known as the headquarters to the Sleeping Bear Dunes. There’s lots to do outside of just the dunes, though, and you won’t regret spending a bit more time here with your family.
Where to eat: Don’t miss out on a nice meal in Empire. Some of our top recommendations for families include Joe’s Friendly Tavern, Shipwreck Cafe, and Tiffany’s Cafe. They all have kids menus. Consider also adding a trip to Grocer’s Daughter Chocolate. There are two locations and one serves gelato!
Things to do: First things first, you’ll want to plan on visiting the Sleeping Bear Dunes’ Philip A. Hart Visitor Center. The visitor center is open daily from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. and offers park passes, brochures, and advice on planning and executing your visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes. There are displays about the history of Sleeping Bear Dunes, geology and stories about the park. Children will love the interactive features.
The beach at Empire is a nice place to relax and swim during the day, but also a beautiful oasis to enjoy in the evenings with a picnic pavilion and unbelievable sunsets. You could also explore the Empire Bluff Trail, a moderate 1.5-mile serene walk with views of Lake Michigan. (Check out our full guide on the best trails at Sleeping Bear Dunes, too
Find your way to Frankfort
What to know: The town of Frankfort is on the southern end of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and is worth visiting, especially during the summer. Frankfort has a twin city called Elberta, located across Betsie Lake, and together they are the largest Sleeping Bear town.
Where to eat: One well-liked place is Dinghy’s Restaurant & Bar (has a kids menu), an American-style restaurant known for its relaxed atmosphere. Another option is Port City Smokehouse, which is known for being a charming place with tasty sandwiches and meats. A restaurant with great views of Betsie Bay is Birch & Maple (kids menu available). Visit for a cozy and inviting atmosphere and delicious breakfast and brunch options.
Things to do: One of the coolest things to do in Frankfort is to visit Point Betsie Lighthouse. You can book a tour to learn more about the history and be taken through the original 1858 lighthouse keeper’s residence. The tower is open to visitors but be warned! Access is through a narrow stairway. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children 6-12 and free for children under 6.
You can take advantage of the scenery in Frankfort by relaxing near Crystal Lake. There’s even a playground for kids to play on nearby. You could also walk or bike Betsie Valley Trail. This beloved trail is scenic and calm, with the majority of it being paved, which makes it perfect for cycling.
Be sure to check out our full Road Trip City Guide to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Discover more places to eat and stay, the best trails in Sleeping Bear Dunes and insider tips on how to really enjoy the dunes!
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.
