Fun For Kids

Abundant parks and playgrounds offer fun outdoor recreation for children.

When it comes to entertainment and activities for the little ones, the greater Harbor Springs area has plenty to offer. Toddlers through teen years, there's something for everyone during every season.

Take a chance at Pond Hill's squash rocket, spend some time caroling during the city tree lighting, or throw on your swimsuit and take advantage of the array of waterfont parks located throughout Emmet county. From miniature golf to horse back trail rides, northern Michigan has it all and there's plenty to see and do with children.

Seasonal Events and Activities

Holidays always mean plenty of wonderful events created specifically for children.

Seasonally, greater Harbor Springs offers many wonderful activities for children of all ages.

During fall, take a trip to one of several local farmers markets or working farms to select your own pumpkin. Take part in area pumpkin carving contests. Pick local apples or berries and make a pie with your child.

Wintertime means about 117" of pure white snow and afternoons filled with sledding and plenty of hot chocolate. Kiwanis Park in Harbor Springs, Boyne Highlands, and Nubs Nob all offer great sledding locations.

Out and About

Pond Hill Farm's squash rocket provides endless fun for everyone.

Depending on how far you'd like to travel will dictate what kind of adventure you have at local kid hot spots.

Visit Pond Hill Farm north of Harbor Springs for hay rides and a petting zoo. Drive further north and visit Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City or Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, both offering guided historic tours and plenty of educational family fun.

The Petoskey State Park offers a fabulous playground favored by kids of all ages.

Around Downtown

A young captain at the helm aboard Stafford's Pointer Boat.

Downtown Harbor Springs prides itself on being overly kid friendly.

Visit Stafford's Pier Restaurant and ask for the Fun for Kids menu complete with coloring area, games and puzzles. Grab an ice cream cone and take a walk around town, visiting the many famous artesian wells still working today. Kids love the constantly running fountains spread throughout town.

For additional fun, visit the Shay playground at Shay Elementary School and see one very amazing playground set.

Splish Splash

The Harbor Springs city beach is just one of many waterfront parks available for kids.

When it comes to water, there is truly no shortage throughout our area. The Harbor Springs public beaches at Zorn Park and Zoll Street offer great downtown locations.

Head north to the township park in Good Hart or even further to Wilnderness State Park and Sturgeon Bay. A cozy picnic spot on Crooked Lake near West Conway Road and US 31 also makes a great afternoon hide-out.

For days when weather just doesn't cooperate, visit the state's premier indoor water park, Avalanche Bay at Boyne Mtn.

Indoor Fun

Northern Lights Recreation offers a fun indoor activity for kids and the whole family.

If the waterpark isn't what you had in mind, there are plenty of other indoor activities for kids to enjoy.

Take in a movie at the cinema in Petoskey or rent your own and cozy up at home. An afternoon of bowling can also provide fun for the whole family. Visit a local bookstore and pick up something to share back home.

A special thank you to Ami Woods at amiwoods.com for use of her photography throughout our website.

Click an image to enlarge.