10 Best Family Things to do in Upper Michigan

Our most frequently asked question, beyond “how many people can fit in that cabin,” is by far what are some fun things to do in upper Michigan? We’ve given out hand drawn maps so many times I can’t even count. Our guests love that the resort is centrally located to so many beautiful and accessible locations.

If you find yourself staying here, or anywhere in the area, you’ll definitely want to know what the 10 best and budget friendly things to do in upper Michigan are.

We would recommend these for solo travelers, couples and all family oriented trips.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is the place to be for outdoor adventure and wildlife exploration. It’s like entering a totally different country when you cross that impressive bridge!

10 Things to do in Upper Michigan

In no particular order…even though they’re numbered 😉

#1 Mackinac Island

This certainly wouldn’t be a “best list” if Mackinac Island weren’t included. I’m pretty sure I should write a post soon about the best things to do just on Mackinac Island…hmmm…

I did however write about the rules you should live by when visiting there because, though the U.P. is like entering another country, Mackinac Island is like entering another world at another time.

I love this island so much that the girls and I have made an annual day trip there for the last several years. We’ve decided this is now tradition and it should be for you, too!

#2 Pirate Cruise

New in the last couple years is the Pirate Cruise that sails out of Mackinaw City. An adventure that’ll keep the kids busy scrubbin’ the decks while parents can enjoy cocktails down below. Complete with a found sunken treasure, sword and cannon fights, singing with pirates and tons of great memories. Definitely don’t miss this if you have younger kids. And I’ve heard that they even do an adult version during later hours 😉

#3 Kitch-iti-kipi

Probably the most well known secret spot in the Upper Peninsula. But even though it’s become more and more popular due to Facebook and Instagram, it’s still on the must-list for things to do in upper Michigan.

Kitch-iti-kipi is super cheap, too, if you already have MI’s recreation passport. Otherwise you can purchase one for $16 at any Michigan State Park that’ll be good until the following year.

#4 Soo Locks

With an awesome viewing platform you’ll get to see all the workings of this massive engineering marvel. Kids from 2 to 92 will be impressed! Be sure to go on a warm day, pack a lunch and enjoy the picnic park area created for anyone hoping to relax during those lazy dog days of summer.

#5 Whitefish Point

The Shipwreck Museum, a lighthouse you can climb for some amazing views, tons of Michigan history and that incredibly beautiful, rocky beach all in one place. You could definitely make a full day of it here!

#6 Tahquamenon Falls and Toonerville Trolly

Another fantastic outdoor adventure for things to do in upper Michigan. That Michigan Recreation Passport will come in handy here, also. Load the car and just go! Got your eye on that tempting brewery at the Upper Falls? Read this first…

If you’d like to take in a little different perspective of the falls you might want to try The Toonerville Trolley and boat tour which offers a couple different trip options. Hop on the trolley at Soo Junction 15 minutes east of Newberry off M-28. This might be considered a little pricey depending on the size of your group, so keep that in mind when planning your trip itinerary. Also, reservations are recommended.

#7 Bear Ranch

20 bucks will get an entire car load past the gates and into this little world of black bears. The Bear Ranch is a seasonal location due to hibernation, of course, so please consider the timing of your visit. Make sure you pay to get your picture taken with a cub. Totally worth the memories you’ll keep forever!

#8 Straits State Park bridge view and trails

There’s all kinds of bridge viewing areas in Mackinaw City and St. Ignace but I’ve found that the elevation here is magical over looking the waters of the straits and you can take the trails down to the beach to get a different angle. The MI Recreation Passport will get your car load in and you can explore until your heart’s content.

#9 Deer Ranch

This is possibly the sweetest little spot along US 2 just west of St. Ignace. The whitetails here are quite content and love to be hand fed. You could mosey for hours or make it a quick stop to stretch your legs. Either way you won’t be disappointed.

#10 Pictured Rocks National Park

I’m really looking forward to updating this post to include the pictures we take during a trip we have planned for summer 2018. We’ll be doing a kayak tour that I purchased for Bob’s birthday. Yes, it was in January but at least we have something to look forward to…

You could make this more affordable by exploring on your own. Of course, this depends on how adventurous and experienced you are. Safety is number one, so please use common sense and when in doubt call an expert.