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Traverse City is one of the top destinations in Northern Michigan for so many reasons. But finding things to do there with toddlers might be a little daunting. Especially if you’re not from the area.
We’ve rounded up some of the top things to do in Traverse City that will make your trip there with a little one easy, breezy, and one to remember.
Read on to find fun things to do with your toddler. We’ve found numerous activities, places to eat, and even places to stay if you’re going for multiple days.
Things to do with [ ] in Traverse City (TOC)
Things to Do
Here is a list of some of our favorite things to do in Traverse City with toddlers. We hope you will enjoy them!
1. Clinch Park Splash Pad + Beach
Traverse City’s splash pad in Clinch Park has kids climbing and spraying with interactive water toys.
111 E Grandview Pkwy, Traverse City, MI 49684
2. Great Lakes Children’s Museum
Ignite your imagination and curiosity at Great Lakes Children’s Museum. Explore their hands-on exhibits for an engaging and educational experience.
13240 S. West Bay Shore Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684
3. COGNiTiON Science and Discovery Center
Explore the world of science with hands-on exhibits, planetarium shows, and even hold and visit various animals!
232 N Michigan Ave, Beulah, MI 49617
4. Crystal Mountain Waterpark
Crystal Mountain’s outdoor pool and waterpark features a 4,200 square-foot pool offering three lap swimming lanes, a zero-depth entry pool, water basketball and an aquatic playground.
12500 Crystal Mountain Dr,Thompsonville, MI 49683
5. Boardman Loop Trail & Nature Scape
This easy four-mile nature trail features a boardwalk pathway accessible with bikes, strollers or wheelchairs. Experience all the settings with access to urban areas and nature at different points of the trek.
Hannah Ave, Traverse City, MI 49684
6. Sleeping Bear Dunes Dune Climb
Hike the dunes at the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes. It’s like a giant sandbox. Or simply enjoy and explore the beach and water along Lake Michigan.
12 Woodridge Road, Glen Arbor, MI 49636
7. GT Butterfly House
The GT Butterfly House is a botanical garden full of butterflies and packed with displays and living exhibits. Explore hundreds of bugs at their bug zoo.
8840 E M-72, Williamsburg, MI 49690
8. Tart Trail Bike & Ice Cream
Bike the TART signature trail. It’s a 10.5-mile paved pathway that stretches east-west across the city. Stop for ice cream at Woodland Sweets and Eats.
N Four Mile Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685
10. Immaculate Conception Playground
At Immaculate Conception Playground you will find squishy turf, updated play equipment and it is fenced in for smaller kiddos!
*Can only be used when school is not in session.
314 Vine Street Traverse City, MI 49684
9. Visit the Animals at Gallagher’s Farm Market and Bakery
Gallagher’s Farm Market and Bakery offers in-season fruit and vegetables. You will also find in-home baked goods, U-pick cherries and barnyard animals.
7237 E Traverse Hwy, Traverse City, MI 49684
Where to Eat
With all the exploring, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Check out these kid-friendly places.
1. Jacob’s Farm – Kids zone
At Jacob’s Farm find and enjoy good food and drinks. Enjoy live music, doughnuts and cider, and their kid’s playground. Come in the fall for their corn maze and apple picking.
7100 E. Traverse Hwy, M-72 W, Traverse City, MI 49684
2. Flap Jack Shack
In addition to pancakes, littles can order up a crustless grilled cheese, kids confetti cakes, waffle, or cinnamon toast crunch sticks. This might be one of the best kids menu in town!
3980 US-31, Traverse City, MI 49684
3. The Flying Noodle
Who doesn’t love noodles, especially fresh-made? The great thing about this place is that the adults can get a meal fit for a foodie and picky toddlers will also be satisfied.
136 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49684
4. Moomer’s Homemade Ice Cream
Things that a make a kid say MOO. This ice cream parlor close to Traverse City is the perfect stop for a northern Michigan sweet treat. Step out on the beautiful terrace and have an amazing view of the neighborhood farms and the cows.
7263 N Long Lake Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685
5. Fresh Coast Market
Order kid meals ahead of time. Options include mac & cheese, grilled cheese, pb & j, and ham & cheese sandwiches. Plus, they make a Cinnamon Roll Pizza! They also have a nice indoor seating area. Another Bonus: Moomers is just across the across the street.
7270 North Long Lake Rd., Traverse City, MI
Places to Stay
Little travelers tire quickly and having somewhere close to rest and recharge makes it easier to get to all the activities on your itinerary. Here are a few of the area’s kid-friendly places to stay.
1. Great Wolf Lodge
This hotel features a water park with both indoor and outdoor pools. Their indoor waterpark has a zero-depth entry area, perfect for little kids. They also have an arcade and wizarding quest.
3575 U.S. 31 North S, Traverse City, MI 49684
2. Crystal Mountain
Crystal Mountain offers a variety of lodging options. Ranging from traditional hotel rooms to stand-alone units with bedrooms and kitchens. They also offer a variety of activities to enjoy from their outdoor pool, slides, golf, and biking trails.
12500 Crystal Mountain Dr. Thompsonville, Michigan 49683
3. Cherry Tree Inn
Cherry Tree Inn has both an indoor pool and an outdoor pool, plus hot tub. Their beachfront location, plus fresh cookies at check-in also draw you in. Family-sized suites and an onsite laundry room make staying here with a toddler a joy.
2345 Highway US-31 North, Traverse City, MI 49686
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