How to Spend a Perfect Summer Day at Silver Lake Sand Dunes
How to Spend a Perfect Summer Day at Silver Lake Sand Dunes
If you’re planning your first visit to Silver Lake Sand Dunes, I have good news for you. You’re going to have a blast! As outdoor adventure lovers who’ve traveled to incredible places like Zion National Park, my family and I are always on the lookout for unique landscapes—and Silver Lake Sand Dunes absolutely delivered. The towering dunes, stunning views, and exciting activities made us want to come back to explore even more next summer.
To give you a true taste of this one-of-a-kind destination, here’s my one-day itinerary with all the must-do activities. Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding adventures or some peaceful moments by the lake, you’ll find it all here.
9:00 a.m. Start the day with breakfast
No perfect day starts without a good breakfast, right? Head over to Michigan Basecamp, the go-to spot for RV, kayak, and e-bike rentals, for a quick bite before your dune adventures. Inside you’ll find a café that serves shockingly good breakfast, from breakfast burritos to avocado toast to sweet or savory Belgian waffles and coffee drinks.
10 a.m. Sit back and relax on a tour of the dunes
Now that you’re fed and ready, check in next door at Mac Wood’s Dune Rides to take a scenic 40-minute tour through Silver Lake Sand Dunes. It’s fun for the whole family (even little ones). The open-truck ride offers stunning views of the dunes and Lake Michigan. The tour guides are super knowledgeable, and you’ll learn all kinds of cool facts about the area while taking in the beauty around you.
12 p.m. Take the wheel and tackle the dunes yourself
Now that you’ve seen the dunes, it’s time to take a turn at the wheel. If you have your own 4×4 vehicle, make your way to the entrance of the ORV area at Silver Lake State Park and prepare for a wild ride! If you don’t have your own vehicle, rent a dune buggy or an ATV from one of the local recreation companies and feel the thrill of zooming over the dunes. Trust me, it’s an unforgettable experience.
1:30 p.m. Lunch at Silver Lake Chicken Shack
After all that excitement, you’re bound to be hungry. Just a short drive away is the Silver Lake Chicken Shack. This local favorite is known for its smoked chicken wings, which are quite possibly the best in the Midwest (if not the country!). Grab a picnic table outside and enjoy their famous chicken baskets, crispy fries, and refreshing lemonade. It’s a good spot to relax, recharge, and get ready for an afternoon spent playing games next door at Craig’s Cruisers.
3 p.m. Cool down at Craig’s Cruisers
Now that you’ve experienced the dunes, it’s time for some classic family fun. Craig’s Cruisers is a must-visit for families with kids of all ages. Their go-kart tracks, bumper boats, and mini-golf course are perfect for spending a couple of fun-filled hours. Whether you’re challenging your family to a race like we did or battling it out in a round of mini-golf, Craig’s Cruisers guarantees plenty of laughs and good times.
5 p.m. Kick back at Silver Lake
You’ve had an action-packed day, and now it’s time to slow down a bit. Head to the shores of Silver Lake State Park, located in their campground area. Bring a towel, kick back on the sandy shores, and soak up the last of the afternoon sun.
6:30 p.m. Dinner at The Golden Sands Golf Course
End the day with a filling dinner at The Golden Sands Golf Course. Grab a patio seat at the onsite restaurant, The Bucket Bar, overlooking the golf course. Order one of their popular herb-crusted pizzas and let the kiddies play board games or stay busy with the giant chalkboard. It’s a nice way to wind down and reflect on your day of adventure.
8 p.m. Watch the sunset at Little Sable Point Lighthouse
Finally, catch a magical sunset at Little Sable Point Lighthouse. Climb to the top of the historic lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan. (Check their website for open hours and fees.) Bring your camera because you won’t want to miss capturing the sun seemingly melting into the lake. It’s a serene way to end an adventurous day.
A Day to Remember
Whether you’re flying over the dunes in an ATV or watching the sunset by the lighthouse, there’s something for everyone at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. This itinerary covers all the best highlights, from adrenaline-pumping activities to plenty of relaxing downtime.
No matter what kind of adventurer you are, you’re sure to have a good time. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your perfect day at Silver Lake Sand Dunes and get ready for some serious fun!
Author Bio: Kristi Valentini is a professional travel writer who helps people go on incredible trips without spending a fortune. She writes about the coolest stuff to do and see for publications like Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, Esquire, and for her own website, ReadymadeTravelPlans.com, where you can get her free checklists and itineraries.