Family Getaway Guidebook

For nature enthusiasts, you will be absolutely spoiled for choice! Come satisfy your outdoor thirst for adventure in one of many state parks, nature preserves, beaches, and forests. Within a 20 minute drive, you can reach breath-taking landscapes at TripAdvisor’s top rated Petoskey State Park – containing 303 acres of recreation space and unobstructed views of Little Traverse Bay. Here you can engage in all the best water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, boating, parasailing and more!

If you want a more intimate experience with nature, make your way to Bear River Valley, where you’ll encounter scenic river trails, evergreen trees, and rolling hills. Towards the end of the day, treat yourself to a relaxing evening at a nearby winery & vineyard, offering top notch drink selections and spectacular views.

Ready to hit the slopes? Test your skills and shred the white, powdery snow at nearby Boyne Mountain, Nubs Nob Ski Resort or Boyne Highlands.

Other notable outdoor recreational experiences include Burt Lake State Park, Oden Island Nature Preserve, and Gaylord State Forest Area for a chance to hike, cycle, or see a multitude of wildlife and plant species.

If you’re looking for some good ole fashioned family fun, plan a trip to Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark and splash your way through Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark!