Summer Trip

Question

We are from the Chicago suburbs and my parents (75ish) want to take their three children and grandchildren on a family trip this year. We were thinking beach but they are thinking within 8 hours of home. So Michigan is our idea. But, we have several teenagers who want to have their days filled with activities and it seems like it will be a more chill vacation. I think the first reaction to Michigan will be that is a boring trip but I know if I plan it well we can make it fun! Can you suggest where would be the best place in Michigan to go….with a beach but with the most amount of stuff to do as well? We will be looking probably to rent a house for 14 people.

Thanks for any great ideas!!

Answer

Michigan is an excellent choice for a family summer trip, especially if you want a combination of beaches and activities within a reasonable driving distance from the Chicago suburbs. The state offers a variety of regions with beautiful freshwater beaches, charming towns, and plenty of entertainment options for both teens and adults.

Here are some of the top areas in Michigan that could suit your needs:

Traverse City / Grand Traverse Bay: This area is known for its gorgeous sandy beaches along Lake Michigan, wineries, and the vibrant town of Traverse City. Teens and adults can enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, dune tours, and even cherry picking if your trip coincides with the season. Downtown Traverse City has shopping, restaurants, and a movie theater for chill days.
Petoskey / Harbor Springs: Located in Northern Michigan along Little Traverse Bay, these towns offer scenic beaches, boutique shopping, and a charming small-town feel. Teens can enjoy water sports, boating, bike trails, and exploring the nearby state parks. Petoskey also has historic districts and hiking trails suitable for the whole family.
Holland / Saugatuck: On the southwestern side of Michigan, Holland and nearby Saugatuck offer sandy Lake Michigan beaches with dunes, art galleries, and a fun downtown vibe. Saugatuck Dune Rides and the nearby Allegan Forest provide adventurous options for teens. The area also hosts seasonal festivals, farmers markets, and boating excursions.
Muskegon / Silver Lake: Muskegon has wide beaches, a boardwalk area, and the Muskegon Adventure Sports Center, offering zip-lining and mountain biking. Silver Lake State Park is famous for its sand dunes, which allow off-road vehicle rentals and dune climbing—a big hit with teens and young adults.

For a large family group like yours (14 people), renting a spacious house or cottage near these areas is very feasible. Look for properties with multiple bedrooms, large common areas, and proximity to the beach so everyone can easily enjoy the water. Many rental homes in these regions also offer amenities like decks, fire pits, and access to private docks.

Some tips to make the trip fun for everyone:

Plan a mix of beach days and activity days so teens have plenty to do.
Consider boat rentals, paddleboards, or jet skis for lake fun.
Check for local mini-golf, arcades, or zip-lining for teen-friendly activities.
Include some local sightseeing: lighthouses, small-town festivals, or nature trails for the whole family.
Choose a central rental location to minimize long drives between activities.

In summary, Traverse City, Petoskey/Harbor Springs, Holland/Saugatuck, and Muskegon/Silver Lake offer the best combination of beaches and activities in Michigan. With thoughtful planning, your family can have a vacation that balances relaxation for your parents and plenty of engaging activities for teens, all while enjoying the natural beauty of Michigan’s lakes and towns.

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