5 Kid-Friendly Destinations To Visit In The Upper Peninsula

The UP is a drive from metro Detroit but it is well worth it. Experience the beauty of Michigan at natural wonders and enjoy kid-friendly fun. Pack up the car and get ready for a road trip, here are 5 places you want to visit in the mitten state’s upper pennisula.

Castle Rock (St. Ignace)

Located 10 minutes away from the Mackinac Bridge, Castle Rock is the perfect welcome to the UP. Stretch your legs and walk up some steps (and some more steps) for stunning views of the land and water. Bring quarters to use the telescope at the top. Admission is $1 per person and well worth it.

Tahquamenon Falls Lower Falls (Paradise)

Wear shorts (or swim gear) and bring towels because Lower Tahquamenon Falls isn’t just to look at. The breath-taking waterfalls are beautiful to see and more fun to play in. Watch your step and navigate the rocky waterways with your kids. Explore from the nature trails or rent a boat and row the lake.

Chutes and Ladders Playground (Houghton)

We will always find a playground and the Chutes and Ladders Playground on the Houghton Riverfront is perfection. The boardgame inspired structure has so many places to climb and slide it kept the kids busy for hours. They had so much fun they didn’t ask to swing or even swim at the beach (two high demand activities on most occasions). The playground is free, there is ample parking, public restrooms, an ice cream shop and boat rental. The park is a short drive from Lake Superior and there are multiple scenic beaches you can stop at along the shoreline.

Manistique East Breakwater Lighthouse (Manistique)

The perfect #PureMichigan experience, Manistique is a must. The picturesque lighthouse is perfect for a family photo-op and located along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan. The water is crystal clear and the beach isn’t busy. Walk along the boardwalk further down the shoreline and find a rocky shore the kids will enjoy exploring. Grab lunch at the Big Boy across the street and let the kids play on the wooden train set, bus and truck outside the restaurant.

Palms Book State Park (Manistique)

Palms Book State Park is something you have to see to believe. The State Park isn’t big but it’s an memorable experience. Home to Kitch-iti-kipi or “The Big Spring”, visitors can hop on an observation raft and get a unique ride over the crystal clear water that is so clean, you can see to the bottom with your naked eye. Stop by the gift shop before you leave for a souvenir and an ice cream.