Mackinaw City, MI

Hi M.!

My family and I just got back from Boyne Mtn., MI and we drove to Mackinaw City. The whole area is beautiful and we had so much fun. We had friends with us and the ages of the kids were 9,8,7,6,5,18 mos. All of the kids had a blast. We walked the beach (too cold to swim, although the oldest 4 were in up to their shorts!) and found shells and looked for the Petosky stones. Petosky is another great city to visit nearby! We went to a state park (sorry cannot remember the name but was REALLY close to Mackinaw City). There was a playground there, dunes, beach, hiking, etc. We spent the whole day there and it was only in the low 50's. The kids had so much fun. Then we also did a touristy thing and saw the Mystery Spot. This probably wouldn't be as neat for your 2 year old (maybe a bit young for it), but the older kids thought it was cool. There is also a mini golf there and they all had fun with that! They all had so much fun outdoors and hiking and such! I stayed in the van or at the resort a lot as I am mega pregnant and was having quite a lot of Braxton Hicks. I would contact the visitors bureau and they will send you tons of stuff to do! One last thing, we drove to Michigan's Adventure (amusement park in Muskeegon, MI owned by Cedar Fair) on our way home. This is not a huge park, but VERY kid-friendly. We spent 2 days there and my kids were able to get on every ride they wanted with almost no waiting in line. Some they just walked up and got on over and over. There is a water park, too which is part of the same park (all one price) and again, even though it was so chilly out, they had so much fun. Great family place! My little one had a lot of fun there, too! He got introduced to Snoopy and loves him now! Enjoy your trip. Really great place to go!

We've been to both Mackinac Island and Mackinaw City. More to "do" on the island, so plan on ferrying over. Your son will love seeing all the horses and wagons. It might be busy in town if it's a weekend, but you can rent bikes (with a child seat!) and get out of the cluster easily. I love to bike around the island; it's only 8 miles around, and pretty much level. If you can, hike up to arch rock from the main highway. It's beautiful on a sunny day!

Haven't spent as much time in Mackinaw City, but there's lots to do in the area. Weather can be unpredictable, so take layers just in case. Our hotel in Mack City had a small beach that the kids loved. (they were 7 and under) Water won't be warm though, you'll need a heated pool for swimming.

Gosh, we love Mackinaw Island. I don't know a lot about the city, but there is a lot to do on the Island plus your son will probably love the ferry over :)

We just came back from Mackinaw City this weekend. It is a great place for kids. I have a 9 year old & 5 month old. The beach there at the hotels are all white & sandy...bring some beach toys:) My son swam in Lake Huron, although it was very cold. The city is within walking distance from most hotels, we stayed at the Aqua Grand, and it was about 5 blocks away. There are a ton of pizza places to eat at and all are kid friendly. Have a great time!! We love it there and are already planning our next trip there!

Also, not sure if your hotel has beach front property, but most do. You should check it out. The beach front properties are no more than a regular hotel. We had a beach level room, you can walk out right onto the beach.