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Saturday, 11 April 2026

10 family-friendly restaurants in Muskegon

The city of Muskegon is a must-visit destination for families looking for a weekend escape, and the restaurants across this lakeside destination give families further reason to make the trip.

Hearty breakfast and brunch options power families up for a long day of downtown exploration or lakebound boating. Afterwards, families can dock up for a filling lunch or dinner at the many eateries on the shores of Lake Muskegon. And, families can’t forget about the delicious sweets and sundaes across the city.

No matter the meal, Muskegon delivers great flavors and welcoming, kid-friendly dining environments for visiting families. Keep reading to discover the top family-friendly restaurants in Muskegon.

Getty Street Grill

  • 1572 South Getty Street 
  • Mon – Sat, 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Sun, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

The Getty Street Grill in Muskegon has sweet breakfasts and savory brunches for everyone in the family. Popular menu items include the grill’s “Egg Normous” Omelettes and the Cinnamon Swirl Cakes with a glistening sugar glaze on top. Google reviewers mention generous portions and outstanding service, making for a great first stop to kick off a long day in the great outdoors.

Brunch House

  • 3065 Henry Street
  • Mon – Sun, 7a.m.-3 p.m. 

For a more modern take on brunch, try Brunch House for an early start. Parents will love the creative range of mimosas and bloody marys on the menu (one even has an egg on it!), while kids will enjoy griddle specialties like the banana bread french toast. Yelp reviewers frequently recommend the breakfast tacos, packed with eggs, hashbrowns and topped with a jalapeƱo holandaise sauce.

The Coffee Factory

  • 1402 Hudson Street
  • Mon – Sat, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sun, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

If looking for a quick stop before the day’s activities, The Coffee Factory is a great option for coffee and a taste of Muskegon history. This independently owned shop repurposed an old furniture factory for its storefront, and frequently hosts events and pop-up shops for those in the neighborhood. Not to mention, its coffee, quick bites and menu meals are made from fresh, local ingredients.

The Deck

BBQ nachos with pulled pork and chips at The Deck in Muskegon, a popular family friendly lakeside restaurant for casual dining
Photo credit: Visit Muskegon
  • 1601 Beach Street 
  • Mon – Thurs, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Fri, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat, 12-9 p.m. Sun, 12-8 p.m. Opening May 20th for the season. 

The Deck harnesses the spring and summer seasons in Muskegon with a completely outdoor dining experience, featuring two decks of dining space, live music and family games. The menu has tons of BBQ favorites, from meat plates to sandwiches. If visiting after opening day on May 20th, check out The Deck’s events schedule for a musical lunch or dinner.

Carlisle’s

  • 470 W Western Avenue 
  • Mon – Thurs, 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri – Sat, 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Sun, 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. 

This family-friendly sports bar has great food and better events to keep families entertained for lunch and dinner. The Carlisle’s menu features salads, sandwiches and classic bar food mains like fish and chips. The kids will love watching hockey players skate around on the neighboring rink, visible from inside the restaurant.

Bear Lake Tavern

  • 360 Ruddiman Drive 
  • Mon – Thurs, 4-9 p.m. Fri, 4-10 p.m. Sat, 12-10 p.m. Sun, 12-8 p.m. 

Dinner at Bear Lake Tavern is a great way to end a day on Lake Muskegon. It sits right on the channel that outlets into Bear Lake, with docking available for boats just outside. Families should try the tavern’s traditional Yellow Bellow Perch, a menu item they’ve perfected since 1929, and finish it off with a brownie sundae or key lime pie.

The Lakehouse Waterfront Grille

  • 730 Terrace Point Road 
  • Tue – Thurs, 4-10 p.m. Fri – Sat 4-11 p.m. Closed Sun – Mon.

Another lakeside restaurant option is the Lakehouse Waterfront Grill, offering families a nice, yet still casual meal to round off the trip. The grill has a revolving seasonal menu, along with standard dinner, kids, desserts and drink menus. Yelp reviewers love the fresh seafood, especially the crab cakes and the lobster roll.

Hometown Creamery

  • 292 W Western Avenue
  • Mon – Fri, 4-9 p.m. Sat, 12-9 p.m. Sun, 2-8 p.m.

As families may grasp from the name, Hometown Creamery is a local gem selling homemade ice cream while bringing community members together. The diner-like interior creates a cozy environment for customers to enjoy classic scoops, or creations like the waffle taco: a folded waffle cone with ice cream and toppings in the middle.

Coney Land

  • 1960 Whitehall Road 
  • Mon – Sat, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun, 12-9 p.m. 

Coney Land is an ice cream, corn dog and sandwich shop all wrapped in one. This family owned business offers a laidback atmosphere for families to stop and hang out at in between activities or on the way back to the hotel. The outdoor patio has corn hole and a small playground for kids to run around on after snacking. 

McDonald’s Candies

  • 1064 S Getty Street
  • Mon – Fri, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sat, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Closed Sunday. 

As a final stop for a sweet treat, McDonald’s Candies serves truffles and other chocolates, using recipes that date back to the shop’s open in 1941. Airy seafoams and turtles, featuring pecans and caramel inside, are some of the specialties to satisfy your family’s sweet tooth.

 

Content sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more content like this in our Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.



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5 family-friendly stays in Muskegon

When traveling with family, the right stay is crucial, especially in a place like Muskegon. With so many activities packed into one city, having a comfortable spot to relax and decompress will help both kids and parents rest up for the next big adventure.

From lakeside views to easy downtown accessibility, Muskegon has the right lodging option for any Metro Detroit family. Continue reading to discover five of the top family-friendly stays in Muskegon.

Shoreline Inn & Conference Center

  • 750 Terrace Point Road
  • $135/night

Sitting directly on Lake Muskegon, this hotel boasts some of the most beautiful views of the lake and its surrounding nature. Boats scatter the marina right outside your window, and there are plenty of amenities within the building for families to use. There are two pools, one indoor and one outdoor, for the family to splash around in year round. The Lakehouse Waterfront Grille is one of the restaurants onsite, along with the Lake Effect Bistro & Lounge. For families looking for a relaxing homebase with a calming feel, the Shoreline Inn is a great option.

Duck Creek RV Resort

  • 1155 W Riley Thompson Road
  • Starting at $90/night

Another lakeside stay with a slightly more scrappy environment is Duck Creek RV Resort. Families who love outdoor adventure will have a great time at this lodging option, with amenities like duck boats on the neighboring private pond, a small waterpark, mini golf and more. The resort is also directly across the street from Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park and WildWater Adventure Park for an easy excursion during the stay. Reservations for cabins and RV spots are available starting May 15.

Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center

  • 939 3rd St.
  • $156/night

Shifting away from the shore to Muskegon’s city center, the Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center is situated in the heart of the city’s bustling downtown. An indoor pool, fitness center and an onsite restaurant make up this hotel, all within walking distance of the city’s hot spots. Families who want to be minutes away from museums, tasty restaurants and local events like farmers markets will love having this stay as their home base.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson

  • 1675 E. Sherman Blvd.
  • $93/night

A short drive away from Downtown Muskegon is the Country Inn & Suites outside of Muskegon Heights, a suburb of the city. Still, families can reach the state parks, lakes and activities of Muskegon in ample time, and at a more affordable price. This hotel features both an indoor and outdoor pool, as well as a fire pit area to end each night with your family by the fireside. There are also free breakfast options to get your family out the door and exploring the city.

Airbnbs and Bed and Breakfasts

Whether your family wants to stay by the lake or in the mix of downtown, Airbnbs and quaint bed and breakfasts provide the warmth of a family home from locations all across Muskegon.

A highly reviewed option is the DreamStay on Clay, a boutique hotel within walking distance of both downtown and the nearby marina. This stay is great for families looking for the natural scenes of Muskegon and the lively action of the city center. 

After deciding on a place to stay, families can begin planning their next trip to Muskegon. Check out our Ultimate Family Guide to Visiting Muskegon to learn more about what this family-friendly getaway has to offer.

 

Content sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Visit buyfordnow.com. Find more content like this in our Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.



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Friday, 10 April 2026

Score big at these kid-approved sports bars in Detroit

Metro Detroit is a haven for sports lovers, and families don’t have to miss out on the action. Whether it’s game day or just a fun night out, kid-friendly sports bars in Detroit make it easy for parents to enjoy cheering on their favorite teams while keeping little ones entertained.

These welcoming spots offer the perfect blend of lively sports atmosphere and family-friendly amenities — from kids’ menus and spacious seating to games and outdoor patios. If you’re looking for places where the whole crew can dine, relax and celebrate the spirit of Detroit sports, these kid-friendly sports bars are your go-to destinations.

Read more: 5 Exciting Kid-Friendly Downtown Detroit Restaurants to Add to Your Bucket List

Kid-friendly sports bars in Detroit

Harry’s Detroit

  • Address: 2482 Clifford St., Detroit

Harry’s Detroit has been a staple for sports fans for years. With an extensive kid-friendly menu and a rooftop patio offering impressive skyline views, it’s an ideal spot for families to enjoy a lively sports atmosphere. The friendly staff and spacious setting ensure that both adults and kids have an enjoyable time.

Bakersfield

  • Address: 3100 Woodward Ave., Detroit

Bakersfield delivers a unique sports-watching experience with its lively ambiance and tantalizing Mexican cuisine. Known for its tacos, the spot offers child-friendly dining options, making it a great place for a family outing. The casual setting allows parents to relax while kids enjoy coloring activities and kid-sized portions.

Hockeytown Cafe

  • Address: 2301 Woodward Ave., Detroit

Located just steps from Little Caesars Arena, Hockeytown Cafe is a must-visit for Detroit families looking to soak up serious game-day vibes. Packed with Red Wings memorabilia and sports energy, this iconic eatery offers a lively, welcoming setting that appeals to fans of all ages. The menu is filled with classic American fare sure to satisfy both kids and adults, and there’s no shortage of big screens to catch all the action.

Detroit Shipping Co.

  • Address: 474 Peterboro St., Detroit

This innovative food hall and beer garden is the spot for culinary delights and entertainment. Detroit Shipping Co. offers a variety of foods that cater to every palate, complete with kid-friendly selections. The open space encourages kids to mingle while adults enjoy catching the latest match on big screens scattered throughout the venue.

Jolly Pumpkin

  • Address: 441 W Canfield St., Detroit

Known for its artisanal ales and rustic-chic aesthetic, Jolly Pumpkin is another gem in the metro area catering to families. With ample high chairs and a diverse menu that includes delicious pizza and kids’ favorites, this bar ensures everyone leaves satisfied. The relaxed vibe is perfect for family gatherings where sports are the center of attention.

Lumen

  • Address: 1903 Grand River Ave., Detroit

Situated in Beacon Park, Lumen offers a modern ambiance with the advantage of outdoor seating areas perfect for families. The futuristic design, alongside its generous menu options for both adults and kids, makes Lumen a wonderful spot to unwind. With games like cornhole available, it’s a place where everyone can get in on the action.

Mercury Burger Bar

  • Address: 2163 Michigan Ave., Detroit

Famed for its gourmet burgers and milkshakes, Mercury Burger Bar is an appealing choice for families. Its casual atmosphere, coupled with a kid-friendly menu, ensures that pint-sized guests feel at home. Parents can enjoy the game on one of the many screens while kids indulge in hand-scooped milkshakes.

Green Dot Stables

  • Address: 2200 W. Lafayette Blvd., Detroit

With its unique menu of creative sliders and truffle fries, Green Dot Stables is a must-visit for families. The relaxed environment provides a comfortable setting for kids, ensuring they have room to explore and play. Whether enjoying a sports match or simply dining out, this spot dishes out a memorable experience.

Z’s Villa

  • Address: 42 Piquette Ave., Detroit

Housed in an historic building, Z’s Villa offers a distinctive sports bar experience. Complete with a charming outdoor patio, this bar is perfect for families looking to balance fun with dining. The available menu – featuring chicken tenders, nachos and cheeseburgers – along with various outdoor games, ensures that children are both entertained and well-fed.


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Thursday, 9 April 2026

Celebrate the planet with these Earth Day events for metro Detroit families

Every year on April 22, Earth Day is celebrated by families everywhere. We celebrate our beautiful blue orb by cleaning her up and enjoying other Earth Day events.

Looking for ways to get your kids tuned into learning about environmental issues and appreciating nature in 2026?

From volunteer clean-ups to craft days and festivals, metro Detroit and Ann Arbor are chock-full of fun Earth Day activities for all ages to enjoy. Gear up, go green and head outside to give back to Mother Earth.

Earth Day events in Detroit

Greenfest at Belle Isle Nature

April 11-12, 2026

  • Address: 176 Lakeside Drive, Detroit
  • Cost: Free
  • Time: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Greenfest is a free, two day family friendly event that explains how simple actions can support a healthier environment. Go green with community science initiatives, connection with local conservation experts, creative exploration and community connection. Admission is free!

Greenfest at Detroit Zoo

April 11-12, 2026

  • Address: 229 W. Michigan Ave., Ypsilanti
  • Cost: All festival experiences are included with admission and free for members.
  • Time: All day

Participate in events including Green Showcase & Mindfully Made Market, Arts & Scraps Creation Stations, scoop your own poo zoo compost giveaway and more. Greenfest activities are located throughout the Zoo. All festival experiences are included with admission and free for members.

Earth Day Celebration at the Recreation Activities Center

April 16, 2026

  • Address: 4640 Walnut Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills
  • Cost: Free event; $5/nature hike for resident, $7/nature hike for non-resident
  • Time: 4-6 p.m.

Explore the Outdoor Natural Play Area and celebrate the holiday with a recycled craft, live animal interactions and guided hikes. You can register with or without the hike. Pre-registration required.

Dequindre Cut Spring Cleanup

April 18, 2026

  • Address: Dequindre Cut Greenway, Detroit
  • Cost: Free
  • Time: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

This cleanup event will focus on removing litter from the Dequindre Cut Greenway and surrounding streets. Volunteer for a few focused hours or casually collect litter as you walk. Trash bags, gloves and a limited number of trash pickers and rakes will be provided. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Earth Day Celebration at Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center

April 18, 2025

  • Address: 4101 River Bends Drive, Shelby Township
  • Cost: Free
  • Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. 

All ages can celebrate Earth Day with live music, guided hikes, crafts, live animal ambassadors, face painting and more. Meet local environmental organizations at the event and learn how you can get involved. 

Earth Day Seed Packing Social

April 22, 2026

  • Address: 4444 Vernor Highway, Detroit
  • Cost: Free
  • Time: Noon-2 p.m.

Celebrate Earth Day by packing seeds with Keep Growing Detroit and fellow Outlier Collective members. Volunteers will help pack and organize seeds that will go directly to Detroit gardeners ahead of the growing season.

Earth Day Craft Buffet

April 22, 2026

  • Address: 5201 Woodward Ave, Detroit
  • Cost: Free
  • Time: 5-6 p.m.

Create an Earth Day craft, suitable for all ages. Supplies will be provided but space is limited and seating will be on a first come first serve basis. 

Earth Day Plein Air Painting

April 22, 2026

  • Address: Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park, 1801 W. Jefferson, Detroit
  • Cost: Free
  • Time: 6-8 p.m.

Enjoy a guided walk through Ralph Wilson Park for inspiration for your painting, and then paint freeform or with guidance from TEAD One teaching artists. All ages and skills are welcome and no experience is required. Tables, paints and canvases are provided, but feel free to bring your own materials too. 

Earth Day Community Cleanup & Ice Cream Social

April 22, 2026

  • Address: 4240 Cass Avenue #suite 100
  • Cost: Free
  • Time: 6-8 p.m.

Join The Cleanup Club as we celebrate Earth Day with a community cleanup, followed by an ice cream social at Cold Truth! Everyone is welcome and all cleanup materials will be provided. Please bring a reusable water bottle so you can stay hydrated with provided water refills without the single-use plastic.

Huron Corridor Earth Day Clean Up at Indian Village Park

April 25, 2026

  • Address: 782 W. Huron St., Pontiac
  • Cost: Free
  • Time: 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 

This all-ages event will take place at Indian Village Park. Participants will help by picking up trash, making basic improvements and more. Donuts, water and snacks will be provided. Make sure to bring gloves, flat head shovels and rakes.

Earth Day Celebration at Barn Sanctuary

April 26, 2025

  • Address: 20179 McKernan Road, Chelsea
  • Cost: $35
  • Time: 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

This celebration features a guided tour where you get to meet their remarkable residents, an educational presentation and more. Reservations required.

This article was recently updated on April 9, 2026, by Metro Parent staff writers. The update included adding Earth Day events to the MetroParent.com‘s calendar and featuring the best events on this list. 

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YMCA Camp Timbers builds confidence through connection and outdoor adventure

On 300 acres of Northern Michigan forest, campers at YMCA Camp Timbers are surrounded by a natural setting that’s both new and familiar. With long days outside, time on the lake and unforgettable traditions, campers gain a strong sense of belonging. 

“From the moment campers arrive, there’s an intentional focus on creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where every child feels safe, supported and part of something bigger,” says Executive Director Ricky Wright.

Among the wooded trails, open space and a private lake, new campers immediately find their place. Staff help ease the transition, and families often point to how quickly camp bonds form, both with counselors and with other campers.

Campers swim, boat, craft and embrace camp traditions

Campers kayak and paddleboard on the private lake at YMCA Camp Timbers overnight camp in West Branch, Michigan
Photo credit: YMCA Camp Timbers

Camp runs June 14 through August 1 for ages 6-17, with a daily schedule built around new experiences and friendships. 

“The day is structured enough to keep things running smoothly, but flexible and fun so campers stay engaged,” Wright says.

Mornings start together, then shift into activity rotations that might include swimming, boating, arts and crafts or team sports. After lunch and a break to recharge, afternoons open up more choice, with time to revisit a favorite activity or try something new.

By evening, the full camp comes back together. Campfires, group games and themed nights give the day a shared ending, the kind that campers tend to talk about long after summer ends.

“This is when a lot of the camp’s community spirit really shines,” Wright says.

For outdoor explorers, first-time overnight campers and social learners

Campers paddleboard and kayak on the private lake at YMCA Camp Timbers overnight camp in Northern Michigan
Photo credit: YMCA Camp Timbers

Some campers arrive ready to try it all. Others take a little time. Both tend to find their place at YMCA Camp Timbers.

“You don’t have to be experienced — just willing,” Wright says.

Kids who enjoy being outside often settle in quickly, especially with the focus on lake activities and group play. But it’s often the campers who are still figuring things out — trying something new, building confidence or navigating friendships — who see the biggest gains.

“The campers who thrive most are not necessarily the most athletic or outgoing. They’re the ones who are open, willing and ready to engage,” he says.

Programs that support character development, leadership and belonging

A counselor poses with two young campers at YMCA Camp Timbers overnight camp in West Branch, Michigan
Photo credit: YMCA Camp Timbers

There’s a wide mix of activities, all designed to support growth, connection and confidence.

“It’s not just ‘fun for fun’s sake,’” Wright says. “Campers are guided to grow as people while they’re having fun.”

YMCA core values — caring, honesty, respect and responsibility — are part of daily life. Campers are encouraged to take on small challenges, build independence and look out for one another. 

“Every camper is actively supported in feeling like they belong,” Wright says.

Where kids gain confidence, independence and friendships

Camp culture shapes everything at YMCA Camp Timbers. With days spent fully outdoors, kids disconnect from screens and engage with the people and environment around them.

Many parents notice their child returning more confident and self-reliant, more comfortable making decisions or stepping into new situations. 

“Kids often return excited, proud of what they accomplished and eager to go back,” Wright says. “It’s a place where they try new things, become more confident and build meaningful relationships that last well beyond the summer.” 

Camp snapshot

Camp name: YMCA Camp Timbers
Location: West Branch, Michigan
Address: 3269 Horseshoe Lake Road, West Branch, MI 48661
Ages: 6-17
Camp type: Overnight camp
Dates: June 14-August 1
Cost: $660-$1,400
Website: www.camptimbers.org
Phone: 989-345-2630



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Wednesday, 8 April 2026

Plan a weekend with your family in America’s No. 1 summer destination

If you’re still scrolling through the usual suspects for your family’s summer vacation — theme parks, beach resorts, the same crowded national parks — it’s time to look north. To a tiny, magical island in Lake Huron where the cars stopped running over a century ago and the fudge never stops flowing.

Mackinac Island has just been named the No. 1 Summer Travel Destination in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, beating out some serious competition. Glacier National Park, Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon and the Adirondacks all made the list. And this isn’t a one-year fluke: USA Today readers have voted Mackinac Island the Best Summer Travel Destination three years running, making it one of the most consistently celebrated spots in the country.

Key takeaways

  • The bigger picture: Mackinac Island was just named the No. 1 Summer Travel Destination in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report for 2026, beating out Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, Glacier National Park and the Adirondacks.
  • A day on the island: The island is completely car-free. Getting around means walking, biking or taking a horse-drawn carriage; a genuinely unique experience that slows everything down in the best way. Between Fort Mackinac’s living history reenactments, outdoor recreation, fudge shops and horse-drawn carriage rides, there’s something for every age group.
  • What you need to know: Sneak Peek Week runs April 24–30, 2026, offering an uncrowded early look at the island. Full summer season runs through August with mild temps in the 70s.

What makes it so special for families?

Mackinac Island’s car-free streets mean transportation is refreshingly simple: walk, bike or grab a horse-drawn carriage. For parents used to navigating highway traffic and parking lots, this alone feels like a vacation. For kids, it feels like stepping into a storybook.

Fort Mackinac also features reenactments, gunfire salutes and costumed interpreters who make you feel like you’ve gone back in time. Kids don’t just read about history here — they experience it. Many families leave with their children even wearing a powdered wig from the gift shop.

Photo credit: Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm

Outdoor adventure for every age

Kayaking, biking and hiking to the Instagram-worthy Arch Rock are just a few of the ways to explore. Mackinac Island State Park offers miles of paved and forested trails perfect for all fitness levels, and the island is surrounded by the Great Lakes in every direction making water views a constant backdrop to every adventure.

Summer Festivals you won’t want to miss: 

The famous fudge (yes, it’s worth the hype)

No trip to Mackinac is complete without sampling the island’s legendary fudge. The Mackinac Island Fudge Festival in October is a sweet celebration of Michigan’s most famous confection. There are multiple fudge shops lining the main street, and watching it get made on marble slabs is a show in itself.

Where to stay and when to go

Accommodations range from iconic to cozy. The Grand Hotel features the longest front porch on earth, full of rocking chairs with breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac. For families seeking a more relaxed vibe, Mission Point Resort is a family-owned property with plans to expand culinary programming and update guest rooms for the 2026 season.

The 2026 tourism season kicks off with Sneak Peek Week, April 24-30 — a great chance to explore the island before the summer crowds arrive. Peak season runs through August, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine making it ideal for outdoor exploring.


Frequently asked questions about Mackinac Island

Where is Mackinac Island? It’s located in Lake Huron, between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas in the northern part of the state.

How do you get there? You take a ferry from either Mackinaw City or St. Ignace on the mainland. The ferry ride itself is part of the experience. Private charter flights into the island’s small airport are also an option.

Are there really no cars on the island? Correct. Cars have been banned on the island for over a century. Transportation is by foot, bicycle or horse-drawn carriage.

What’s the weather like in summer? Mild and pleasant. Highs are typically in the 70s°F, making it comfortable for outdoor activities without the sweltering heat of many other summer destinations.

What should families make sure to do? The must-dos include a horse-drawn carriage ride through downtown, visiting Fort Mackinac for the history reenactments, biking or hiking to Arch Rock, kayaking and of course sampling the famous fudge.

When is the best time to visit? Late June through August is peak season with the most events and activities. For a quieter trip, late May or early June offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.

What are the big summer events? The Lilac Festival in June is the marquee event, but the Fudge Festival in October is also hugely popular. The island’s full summer calendar is packed with festivals and activities.

Is it expensive? It ranges widely. The Grand Hotel is a splurge, but there are more budget-friendly hotels and resorts on the island. U.S. News & World Report factors affordability into its rankings, so it’s accessible at multiple price points.

Is it worth it for kids specifically? Absolutely. The car-free environment, interactive history at the fort, outdoor adventures and novelty of horse-drawn transportation make it a genuinely memorable trip for children of all ages.



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Tuesday, 7 April 2026

Where to find alterations, hemming and last-minute fixes for your prom outfits

Finding the perfect prom outfit is only half the battle. Getting it to fit just right is what really makes the look come together. Whether it’s hemming a dress, adjusting straps or tailoring a suit, alterations can make a huge difference.

In metro Detroit, there are plenty of local tailors and alteration shops that specialize in formalwear and can help with everything from quick fixes to full custom adjustments. Some even offer rush services if you’re down to the wire.

Key takeaways

  • The bigger picture: A well-fitted prom dress or suit can completely elevate the look, and metro Detroit has plenty of local shops equipped to help.
  • More details: The shops on this list cover a wide range of needs, from full custom tailoring and formalwear fittings at Crown Custom Clothing and Sam Michael’s Menswear to quick fixes and faster turnarounds at spots like Mai’s Alterations and Express Alterations.
  • Why this matters: Many students don’t think about alterations until it’s almost too late. Knowing where to go means a last-minute fit issue doesn’t have to derail the whole look.
  • How this helps: With locations spread across metro Detroit, from Royal Oak and Farmington Hills to Canton Township and downtown Detroit, there’s likely a trusted tailor close to home no matter where you’re coming from.

Here’s where to go for prom wardrobe assistance in metro Detroit.

Mai’s Alterations

Mai’s Alterations is a local go-to for dress hemming and quick fixes, including strap adjustments and resizing. It’s especially helpful for simple prom alterations with faster turnaround times.

  • Address: 5918 Sheldon Road, Canton Township
  • Hours: 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday
  • Phone: (734) 455-9560

Express Alterations

A well-known local tailor serving metro Detroit, Express Alterations offers hemming, dress adjustments and full tailoring for both men’s and women’s formalwear. They handle everything from prom dresses to suits and emphasize precision fit for special occasions.

  • Address: 114 Catalpa Drive, Royal Oak
  • Hours: 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday; 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Saturday
  • Phone: (248) 584-0700

Hot Sam’s Tailor Shop

A historic downtown Detroit tailor, Hot Sam’s offers alterations for dresses, suits and formalwear, including hemming, resizing and detailed garment adjustments. Pricing varies depending on the type of alteration, but services cover most prom needs.

  • Address: 127 Monroe St., Detroit
  • Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday–Saturday
  • Phone: (313) 961-6779

Crown Custom Clothing

Crown Custom Clothing provides tailoring and alteration services for formalwear, including dresses and suits. Known for custom work and fittings, this is a good option if you want a more tailored, polished look for prom.

  • Address: 2410 W 14 Mile Road, Royal Oak
  • Hours: 11 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Monday–Friday; 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday
  • Phone: (248) 439-1898

Sam Michael’s Menswear

Sam Michael’s is a long-standing menswear store that also offers tailoring and alterations for suits and tuxedos. It’s a strong option for prom suits, especially if you need both fitting and styling help.

  • Address: 29437 W 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills
  • Hours: 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday
  • Phone: (248) 477-4615


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