Family Activities Guide
Discover 12 family-friendly activities, venues, and restaurants in Bellaire.
Torch Bay Nature Preserve offers families a pristine sandy beach and crystal-clear waters along beautiful Torch Lake, known for its Caribbean-like turquoise color. This peaceful, free day-use park provides the perfect setting for swimming, building sandcastles, picnicking, and simply soaking in some of Northern Michigan's most stunning natural scenery with your kids.
Grass River Natural Area offers families 1,500 acres of pristine northern Michigan wilderness with easy-to-navigate boardwalk trails that wind through wetlands, hardwood forests, and along the crystal-clear Grass River. The well-maintained nature center provides interactive exhibits and educational programs that make learning about local ecosystems fun for kids, while the gentle trails are perfect for little legs and strollers.
Bellaire Farmer's Market is a delightful Friday morning destination where families can explore local agriculture, sample fresh treats, and meet community farmers. Kids will love the sensory experience of colorful produce displays, friendly vendors offering samples, and the relaxed small-town atmosphere that makes shopping feel like an adventure rather than a chore.
Portage Lake Campground offers families the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and natural beauty in northern Michigan. With pristine hiking trails winding through the woods, a sandy beach for swimming and sandcastle building, and spacious picnic areas for family meals, this scenic state park provides an ideal setting for both day trips and extended camping adventures.
Schuss Mountain is a four-season family destination in northern Michigan that transforms from a winter ski wonderland into a summer adventure playground. With scenic chairlift rides offering stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills, plus activities for all skill levels, it's an ideal spot for families looking to introduce kids to mountain sports or simply enjoy the great outdoors together.
The Highlands is a four-season adventure playground that transforms from a premier ski destination in winter to a mountain adventure park in summer. With activities ranging from alpine slides and ziplines to mountain biking and golf, this sprawling resort offers something for every family member, whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or scenic chairlift rides to take in the stunning Northern Michigan views.
The Lakeview Hotel at Shanty Creek Resort is a four-season family paradise nestled in Northern Michigan's beautiful landscape. With skiing and snowboarding in winter, championship golf courses, miles of hiking and biking trails, and a range of outdoor activities year-round, this resort offers something special for every member of the family no matter when you visit.
Shanty Creek Resort's Summit Village is an adventure-packed destination offering year-round family fun in the heart of northern Michigan. Winter brings excellent skiing and snowboarding lessons for kids, while summer transforms the mountain into a playground with mountain biking trails, golf, swimming pools, and scenic chairlift rides. The resort's all-in-one-place setup means families can enjoy multiple activities without the hassle of packing up and driving between locations.
Great Lakes Children's Museum in Traverse City offers a hands-on learning paradise where kids can explore, create, and discover through interactive exhibits. With rotating displays, STEM activities, and creative play zones all designed for young minds, this indoor destination keeps children engaged while parents appreciate the educational value wrapped in pure fun.
Bellaire High School offers a free, community-accessible playground that's perfect for families looking for a convenient outdoor play spot in Bellaire. With classic playground equipment including climbing structures and swings, plus plenty of open space for running around, it's an ideal destination for burning off energy without breaking the bank.
Hobby Horse Ranch is a charming family farm in northern Michigan where young children can experience hands-on farm activities in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Kids can enjoy pony rides, meet friendly farm animals in the petting zoo, and take part in seasonal activities like hayrides that give them an authentic taste of farm life. The affordable pricing and variety of activities make it an ideal stop for families exploring the Bellaire area.
Clam Lake Road provides access to beautiful Clam Lake, a pristine northern Michigan destination perfect for families seeking outdoor water fun. With calm, clear waters ideal for young swimmers and plenty of space for paddling adventures, this scenic spot offers a wonderful escape into nature where kids can explore, play, and cool off during warm summer days.