Silver Lake Adventure with the Kiddos in Tow
When we think of Silver Lake, of course we think of the dunes, but did you know it is also a terrific destination for big family fun? Get your fill of sand, sun, surf, and more with this line up of great activities that are sure to thrill the little ones in your life. We have assembled all of the fun activities to fill your family vacation with memorable moments you will all remember for a lifetime.
On the Dunes
Mac Wood’s Dune Rides is the classic, not-to-be missed sand dune adventure that family members of every age will love. This 40-minute tour provides a truly iconic dunes experience and does not require a reservation, but best to be there early to ensure your spot. Don’t forget your camera and your shades!
Maybe you would rather freestyle your dune adventure? If so, head to one of our ORV rental spots to get set up for a memorable day cruising the dunes. New to dune driving? No worries! Their experts will guide you through everything you will need to know for an adventurous, but safe day on the sand.
For another unique sand adventure, why not give sandboarding or sand sledding a try? Head over to Silver Lake Sandbox to rent a sandboard or sled, and soon you will be sailing down the dunes. Sandboarding is a lot like snowboarding, but in the warm summer sun. It’s a must-try activity during your visit to Silver Lake.
On the Water
Climb the Lighthouse (Open Tues – Sunday 10-5) The Little Sable Point Lighthouse was built in 1874, burrowed in the sand at Silver Lake State Park is over 100 feet tall and welcomes you to climb all the way to the top. A great way to burn off some energy and work up an appetite.
Be beach bum for a day on a Lake Michigan beach and enjoy the clean, crisp water and warm sugar sands. Perfect for sunning and swimming the day away. Our freshwater beaches provide endless days of sun and fun for the whole family.
Create your own big lake adventure with Wave Club Water Sports located on beautiful Silver Lake, enjoy an exhilarating adventure cruising across the surface of Silver Lake in a 4 Winns ski boat or wave runner, or slow it down with kayaks, canoes, a rowboat, or pontoon. Instruction is given with all rental units, so you will know exactly what to do and where to go.
For a slower day on the water, Happy Mohawk will set you up with everything you need for canoeing, kayaking, rafting or tubing adventure on the Nationally Designated Scenic White River. To make your trip worry-free, they will even provide transportation for the ride back to your car after paddling the day away.
Cruise with Craig
Craig’s Cruisers is the top family destination for fast paced fun. Open until 10pm, you’ll have plenty of time for paddle boats, bumper boats, go-karts, slick track, kiddie karts, large arcade (where you can earn ribbons of tickets for great prizes!), and mini golf. Before the sun goes down, make sure to check out the view of Silver Lake and the sand dunes from the zip line!
Make Friends with the Animals
Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo is a favorite destination of the kiddos, featuring unique animal encounters and 45+ fun farm attractions. Family-friendly activities ensure everyone will have a terrific time making memories on the farm!
Visit the Cows at the Country Dairy in New Era is a working dairy farm, milking over a thousand cows daily. They bottle milk on-site and also make cheese, butter, and 32 flavors of hand-dipped ice cream. Such a good spot for an afternoon snack.
Up North Market & Petting Barn is another great stop for an authentic farm experience. Grab lunch at the deli, choose some fresh farm produce, and stop to visit the animals at the free petting barn.
Stony Lake Stables is a third-generation family farm featuring horseback riding, pony rides, hayrides and more. Ride horseback along trails with scenic views across agricultural fields and rolling hills. No need for prior riding experience, they will show you the basics. It’s truly a unique vacation experience you won’t soon forget!
Follow the Pathway
If a walk in the woods is what you had in mind, Gale’s Pond might be the perfect place for an afternoon hike that isn’t too strenuous for even your littlest travelers. Spend an hour or two following the well -marked trail and watch for ducks, sandhill cranes, and other wildlife that call this corner of Hart home. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic too!
If you haven’t had a chance to yet, you’ll really enjoy exploring the Hart-Montague Trail. Hike (or bike, if you brought yours) a section of this accessible, paved, 22.5-mile trail covering 225 acres that passes through rural, forested lands, featuring scenic overlooks and picnic areas located along the route. A perfect way to spend a day touring the region.
Spark Your Imagination
Storybook Village is so much more than a bookstore, it’s an imagination destination filled with award winning books, puppets, musical instruments and interactive toys that engage children of all ages in imaginative play. Make sure your stop includes a visit to the Starlight Theatre featuring interactive puppet shows, art and storytelling workshops, and author visits.
Visit the Hart Historic District to tour a restored 19th century church, one-room schoolhouse, log cabin and Chief Cobmoosa’s house. At this historic site, you will find an original grist and flour mill with an enchanting, animated doll display in action, and a windmill. The church basement houses the extensive and unique Seymour Rider Indian Artifacts Collection, a must-see for antique, Indian and history buffs.
Fuel Your Adventure
Getting a bit hungry with all of this adventuring? Try one of these great family-friendly spots the kids are sure to love.
Head to the Bucket for a great slice! The Bucket Bar at the golden Sands Golf Course features the Beat Herb Crusted Pizza and Bread Bites that you are sure to love. Dine on the patio while enjoying board games for the kids, a large chalk board wall, and even a driving range!
The Wipe Out Café has quickly become a local favorite spot for breakfast, lunch, or even just a tasty snack. If you are looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, give their gourmet chocolates a try!
Stop for a Snack at The Chicken Shack and try the best-ever seasoned rotisserie chicken you’ve ever had! This family-friendly spot is right downtown in Silver Lake and features open-air seating and live music.
Whippy Dip is truly a Silver Lake landmark and a must-stop spot to fuel up for lunch, and of course a famous whippy dip cone. They have everything you need to make hungry tummies happy. (Silver Lake)
Pick Your Spot
Before you head this way think about accommodations that fit your stay style. Will you be camping? Staying at a lakeside resort or maybe a cozy cottage? There are many choices, but it is always best to plan ahead and reserve your spot.
There you have it….all of the great ways to spend your days in the Silver Lake area. Now just pack up the kiddos, your adventure is waiting!