Michigan, with its stunning Great Lakes shorelines, vibrant cities, and vast natural landscapes, offers an array of experiences perfect for family vacations. From the urban excitement of Detroit to the serene beaches of Lake Michigan and the adventure-filled Upper Peninsula, the Great Lakes State is an ideal destination for families. This guide explores the best family hotels in Michigan, ensuring a stay that’s both enjoyable and memorable.
Best Hotels for Families in Michigan
Mackinac Island
Grand Hotel
Address: 286 Grand Ave, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
Family-Friendly Features: The Grand Hotel offers spacious family suites and numerous activities for children, including lawn games, swimming in the outdoor pool, and biking. The hotel features a kids’ club, a dedicated children’s dining room, and a variety of evening entertainment options.
Why Families Love It: The historic charm, combined with modern amenities and beautiful surroundings, makes it a favorite among families. The lack of motor vehicles on the island creates a safe and unique environment for kids to explore.
Guest Highlights: Guests frequently mention the exceptional service, the beauty of the grounds, and the wide range of activities available for children. The historical tours and evening entertainment are also highly praised .
Alternatives:
Mission Point Resort: Offers family suites, a mini-golf course, and a variety of outdoor activities. Located near downtown Mackinac Island.
Lake View Hotel: Features comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and easy access to local attractions and ferry docks.
Traverse City
Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City
Address: 3575 N US Highway 31 S, Traverse City, MI 49684
Family-Friendly Features: Great Wolf Lodge offers themed family suites, an indoor water park with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river. The resort also has various activities such as story time, a kids’ spa, and an arcade.
Why Families Love It: The indoor water park and themed suites are a huge hit with kids. The wide range of activities ensures there’s something for every member of the family, making it an all-in-one destination for fun and relaxation.
Guest Highlights: Guests frequently mention the excitement of the water park, the comfortable, themed accommodations, and the friendly staff. The numerous kid-friendly activities are also highly praised.
Alternatives:
- Sugar Beach Resort Hotel: Offers beachfront accommodations, an indoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast. Located on the shores of East Grand Traverse Bay.
- Bayshore Resort: Features family-friendly amenities, including an indoor pool, free breakfast, and spacious rooms. Conveniently located near downtown Traverse City.
Detroit
The Henry, Autograph Collection
Address: 300 Town Center Dr, Dearborn, MI 48126
Family-Friendly Features: The Henry offers spacious rooms and suites, an indoor pool, and an on-site restaurant with a kids’ menu. The hotel is located near family-friendly attractions such as The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.
Why Families Love It: The proximity to major attractions, combined with the luxurious accommodations and family-friendly amenities, makes it a great choice for families visiting Detroit.
Guest Highlights: Guests frequently mention the comfortable rooms, the friendly and helpful staff, and the convenient location. The indoor pool and excellent dining options are also praised.
Alternatives:
- The Westin Book Cadillac Detroit: Offers modern rooms, an indoor pool, and multiple dining options. Located in the heart of downtown Detroit.
- MotorCity Casino Hotel: Features family-friendly amenities, including spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and entertainment venues. Located near the Detroit Institute of Arts and Comerica Park.
Holland
Courtyard by Marriott Holland Downtown
Address: 121 East 8th Street, Holland, MI 49423
Family-Friendly Features: This hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant with a kids’ menu. The hotel is located in downtown Holland, near attractions such as Windmill Island Gardens and Holland State Park.
Why Families Love It: The modern amenities, central location, and spacious accommodations make it easy for families to enjoy all that Holland has to offer. The indoor pool provides entertainment for kids, while the fitness center and on-site dining add convenience for parents.
Guest Highlights: Guests frequently mention the friendly staff, clean and comfortable rooms, and excellent location. The indoor pool and proximity to local attractions are also praised.
Alternatives:
Hampton Inn Holland: Offers modern rooms, an indoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast. Located near Dutch Village and Veldheer Tulip Garden.
Holiday Inn Express Holland: Features family-friendly amenities, including an indoor pool, free breakfast, and spacious rooms. Conveniently located near local attractions.
Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor Regent Hotel & Suites
Address: 2455 Carpenter Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Family-Friendly Features: The Ann Arbor Regent offers spacious rooms and suites, an indoor pool, a game room, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel is located near family-friendly attractions such as the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and the University of Michigan campus.
Why Families Love It: Families appreciate the value provided by the complimentary breakfast and the variety of activities available on-site. The indoor pool and game room provide entertainment for kids, and the location makes it easy to explore Ann Arbor’s attractions.
Guest Highlights: Guests often highlight the friendly and helpful staff, the clean and comfortable rooms, and the convenient location. The indoor pool and game room are frequently mentioned as great perks.
Alternatives:
- Hampton Inn Ann Arbor-South: Offers modern rooms, an indoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast. Located near the University of Michigan campus and shopping centers.
- Hyatt Place Ann Arbor: Features family-friendly amenities, including an indoor pool, on-site dining, and spacious rooms. Conveniently located near downtown Ann Arbor and local attractions.
Choosing the Right Family Hotel in Michigan
When selecting a hotel for your family in Michigan, consider:
Location: Proximity to natural attractions, urban centers, or cultural sites can greatly impact your family vacation.
Family Amenities: Look for hotels with amenities like pools, play areas, and family-oriented programs.
Outdoor and Cultural Opportunities: Hotels offering or near outdoor activities and cultural experiences can enrich your family’s trip.
Comfortable Accommodations: Ensure that the hotel provides spacious family rooms or suites for a relaxing stay.
Conclusion
Michigan’s stunning Great Lakes, vibrant cities, and natural landscapes offer a variety of family-friendly hotels, each providing unique experiences. From urban explorations in Detroit and Grand Rapids to beach vacations along Lake Michigan and adventures in the Upper Peninsula, there’s a perfect option for every family looking to explore Michigan. Selecting the right hotel based on your family’s interests will ensure a trip that’s both enjoyable and memorable.
