Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, located along the northwest coast of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, is known for its wind-swept sand dunes and cool blue waters. Only four hours from Detroit, give or take, it makes a wonderful escape for outdoorsy families who crave a picturesque Up North getaway.
Visit our other Road Trip City Guide articles about Sleeping Bear Dunes for expert tips on what to expect on your Dune Climb, what towns nearby have for families and the very best trails and drives at Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Why you should take your family on a road trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes
Michigan is full of sand dunes, so what makes Sleeping Bear Dunes so special?
Here are three biggies:
- Sleeping Bear Dunes is a National Lakeshore — one of just three in the whole United States, according to the National Parks Foundation. (The other two are Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.)
- What a view! The dunes in this area provide a natural lookout over Lake Michigan. The overlooks at the Sleeping Bear, Empire, and Pyramid Point bluffs are 400 feet above Lake Michigan!
- The national lakeshore here is 65 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. But that’s not all. There are several inland lakes and streams to enjoy, too.
- The feeling of collective awe your family will experience is intense! Visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes as a family will create lifelong memories for everyone.
How to get to Sleeping Bear Dunes
From Detroit, take I-75 north to US-10 west toward Midland. Continue on US-10 west to M-115 toward Cadillac and eventually Glen Arbor Township. Sleeping Bear Dunes is in Maple City, Michigan.
Your driving distance is about 250 miles and your travel time is about 4 ½ hours. Be sure to use your Ford connected navigation system to find out about any road closures or construction along the way!
Need a pit stop along the way? Here are two family-friendly stops along your route:
1. Sloan Museum of Discovery, Flint
Sloan Museum of Discovery is a 107,000 sq. feet of hands-on science and history interactive exhibits.
A mom on Google Reviews said, “My daughter and I have been visiting the Sloan Museum for years. They have so many interactive activities to help children learn and become interested in science. Numerous areas for different activities such as painting and drawing, Legos, crafts, water activities, sound, and even a life-size tree house. There is also a neighborhood where children can visit the grocery store, post office, and ambulance. The Sloan Museum also offers an area focused on the history of Flint with educational history lessons as well as an area of automotive history with numerous GM vehicles made within the Flint automotive plants.”
2. Dow Gardens, Midland
Dow Gardens is 110 acres of the perfect anecdote for a long car ride. Here, you’ll find lush, accessible gardens that entertain all ages.
A TripAdvisor mom said, “This place is an affordable, great day trip. We drove 1.5 hours to spend the day there. There is plenty to do for all ages if you enjoy the outdoors.
I recommend bringing a small stroller for littles or children who can’t walk long distances. This place is also wheelchair friendly, I noticed. They have a great sandwich, coffee, and ice cream shop located by the children’s play area. Huge sandwiches are $6, and the ice cream is delicious as well. The grounds are well-maintained, beautiful, and tranquil. I spent 5 hours here with a toddler and a young child. Highly recommend.”
Cool things you can do at Sleeping Bear Dunes
1. The Dune Climb at Glen Lake
My boys are suckers for The Dune Climb, and it is always our first stop. The Dune Climb begins on the gentle shores of Glen Lake near The Dune Center.
Locals will surely let you know that National Geographic once declared Glen Lake as one of the most beautiful lakes in the entire world.
It’s funny how visitors decide to enjoy this gorgeous setting in such vastly different ways. Really, in one of just two ways: either resting at the base of The Dune Climb or scaling up it.
I currently consider myself to be a base girl, but that wasn’t always the case.
Once upon a time, just like my boys do today, I would embark on the strenuous quest of reaching the top of The Dune Climb. What does this process really look like? Well, it means scrambling up the dunes and rolling back down them — on repeat — until you like an unrecognizable sand-covered version of yourself. All in good fun!
- Pro Tip: If you plan to hike across the dunes to Lake Michigan, be prepared with plenty of water and a positive attitude. The dunes can be disorienting and the hike can take several hours. Keep your kids close by.
- Find out more about the Dune Climb in our exploration guide.
- Discover the best trails, too.
2. Splashing Around at Sleeping Bear Dunes
When my family needs to rinse off, as we inevitably will, we head to the safe, shallow waters of Glen Haven Beach. It’s the perfect place for even the littlest ones to splash around and get their toes wet.
It also happens to make an excellent scavenger ground for those magical Petoskey Stones.
These stones look like your average gray beach pebble, but upon closer inspection and, especially when doused in water, a beautiful geometric pattern appears…and then fades again when it dries in the sun.
It is challenging to find them, but it is such a treasure to do so!
3. Kayaking and Canoeing
One of my favorite ways to see Sleeping Bear Dunes is in the water.
If you’re in need of some alone time, I recommend waking up early, before anyone else, sneaking a cup of coffee, and then heading out to rent a canoe or kayak at Crystal River Outfitters or All About Water.
In the quiet morning light, from the cocoon of your kayak, you’re in a good place to catch sight of a blue heron or a white-tailed deer. Our animal friends tend to stay with us a tad longer in the softness of rose-colored mornings. Reach a hand into a pocket to pull out a phone, and they will quickly disappear.
- Pro Tip: Even a young child can join you in a double kayak. There are trees with low-hanging branches that flank the Crystal River, so avoid getting poked in the eyes by making sure everyone is wearing sunglasses.
4. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
When my middle child was a baby, my husband and I spent many hours taking turns driving him around until he was adequately lulled to sleep. Now well-rested, for the most part, I imagine that incorporating a destination that was known for its scenic drives would have been incredibly smart.
So, for parents of babies and toddlers requiring a “lullaby drive,” here is the ultimate drive for just that.
- Pro Tip: Launching this drive about 20-30 minutes before the sun sets is best.
- Learn more about this scenic drive in our full guide.
Through a red-covered bridge made of timber, Pierce Stocking Drive begins. With windows down and hands threading the air, passengers begin to settle back as the road glides through pastoral landscape after landscape of rolling hills.
A melodic contour of sand, shrubs, grasses, and velvety blues cascades down the drive. At the edge of where the dunes give way to a forest, you can hear the cottonwoods’ leaves playfully clapping as these trees send seeds on soft white pillows into the golden hour. Surely, the baby is sleeping now.
Smart parents will bring a blanket and maybe a picnic to enjoy under the cottonwood trees, where they can watch the sun sink into the plush dunes.
Places for families to stay near Sleeping Bear Dunes
The Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor
The Homestead Resort offers a variety of accommodations ranging from hotel rooms to villas. Family amenities include pools, a private beach, and daily activities for children.
A TripAdvisor mom said, “I have been blessed the Homestead has been a part of my life for the past 39 years… while things aren’t always perfect, and shiny, and completely as smooth as a five-star / fancy-schmancy resort — there is no place I’d rather spend time with my family and my young girls. We love the cozy atmosphere, the slower pace, the smaller / less busy ski hills, the beautiful lake, the family-friendly pools and the location is second to none in Michigan.”
Platte River Campground in Honor
Platte River Campground is located within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park. There are campsites for tents and RVs, as well as amenities like restrooms and picnic areas.
A Recreation.gov mom said, “Love this area. So many beautiful trails and interesting towns and places. The campground is probably the nicest layout ever. Huge, very private sites, level parking, and nice tent pads. The bathrooms have excellent layouts and are kept beautifully clean.”
Best places to eat near Sleeping Bear Dunes
Art’s Tavern in Glen Arbor
Art’s Tavern is a casual burger joint with a fun, retro vibe.
- Pro Tip: Bring cash or a check because Art’s won’t accept anything else.
A delighted diner on Yelp said, “During our stay in town, my friends and I had the pleasure of visiting this establishment not once, but twice, and it quickly became our favorite spot. I had the opportunity to indulge in two delectable dishes: the Bacon Cheeseburger and the Grilled Whitefish Sandwich. The Bacon Cheeseburger was a timeless classic, with a perfectly grilled patty and irresistibly crispy yet succulent bacon. However, the Grilled Whitefish Sandwich truly surprised and delighted me. Taking a chance on this dish paid off immensely, as the whitefish was expertly seasoned, resulting in a delightful flaky texture.”
Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor
The Cherry Public House is a part of Glen Arbor’s Cherry Republic, which is honestly a place where families could enjoy an entire afternoon. At the restaurant, guests enjoy cherry-themed dishes. There is a playground and outdoor seating perfect for families.
- Pro Tip: Do not even consider leaving without trying a slice of cherry pie.
A TripAdvisor mom said, “Great spot for families. Good food, plus an ice cream parlor, wine store, and gift shop. A bit off the beaten path of busy downtown.”
Find out more! Get tips on what to expect on your Dune Climb, which trails are best for families (including a scenic drive!) and what towns are close and fun for families.
Content sponsored by Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers. Learn more at buyfordnow.com. Find more road trip guides and full city guides at Metro Parent’s Ultimate Family Road Trip Guide.
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