Looking for family-friendly fun in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula? Ontonagon County has it all from breathtaking natural landscapes to captivating historical sites. Our area has a variety of activities that promise fun, adventure, and lasting memories for visitors of all ages. Here are some family-friendly activities in Ontonagon County, Michigan.
Explore Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Bring your family outdoors to experience the natural beauty of Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. With over 60,000 acres to explore, you can hike trails that range from easy walks to challenging treks, all while enjoying stunning views of waterfalls, old-growth forests, and Lake Superior. This is the Nation’s most beautiful State Park and Michigan’s largest State Park!
Relax at Ontonagon Township Park and Beach
Spend the day at Ontonagon Township Park and Beach, where the whole family can swim, sunbathe, and play in the sand on the beautiful shores of Lake Superior. The park also features picnic areas and playground equipment for the little ones. Don’t forget to bring your floatys and a good book!
Visit the Ontonagon County Historical Museum
Take a step back in time at the Ontonagon County Historical Museum. Located in downtown Ontonagon, this museum offers fascinating exhibits on local history, mining, and shipwrecks, providing an educational experience for the entire family. Come see how people used to live in our area!
Discover Old Victoria Restoration Site
Take a trip to the Old Victoria Restoration Site and explore the meticulously restored log cabins from a 19th-century mining village. This is where immigrants stayed to try to achieve the American dream while mining. This self-guided tour allows families to experience what life was like for early settlers in the area. After you check out the cabins, drive down the road to the impressive Old Victoria Dam Falls.
Beach-combing and Rockhounding at a Public Beach
Head to a Public Beach for a unique adventure in beach-combing and rockhounding. Known for its abundance of agates and other semi-precious stones, our beaches provides a fun and educational activity for kids as they hunt for their own special treasures. We have miles of freshwater beaches lining most of our roads. Find one on your way to an attraction and stop for a quick dip or exploration!
Adventure Mine Tours
The guided underground tours of the Adventure Mine require a fee, but the area around the mine offers trails and historic mining structures to explore for free. It’s a great way for families to learn about the region’s rich mining history. Make sure to bring bug spray, bug nets, and lightweight pants/long sleeve shirts to explore the surrounding forest.
Enjoy Local Community Events
Join the fun at Ontonagon County’s numerous free community events throughout the year. From outdoor concerts and parades to seasonal festivals, there’s always something happening that the whole family can enjoy. We are known for our Labor Day parade and events!
Bird Watching at Rose Island
Visit Rose Island near downtown Ontonagon for a serene spot just outside of the Porcupine Mountains. This hidden gem is perfect for bird watching and enjoying nature. Bring your binoculars and see how many different bird species you can spot with your family. There is even an accessible kayak launch for those that need it!
Self-Guided Tour of the Ontonagon Lighthouse Grounds
The guided tours inside the Ontonagon Lighthouse have an affordable fee, but you can still explore the picturesque grounds for free. Learn about the lighthouse’s history and enjoy beautiful views of Lake Superior and the Ontonagon River from the top of the lighthouse. Each room is preserved to display what life was like during this era.
Geocache in Ontonagon County
Looking for an exciting family-friendly scavenger hunt? Try finding all of the geocache containers hidden throughout Ontonagon County. This is the perfect activity to spend time outside with your family while solving clues together. Inside each container is either trinkets and/or a list that you can sign your name on. Good luck!
Waterfalling With the Family
We have over 100 waterfalls to choose from throughout the Porcupine Mountains area. Bond Falls is a large waterfall with easy access to viewing areas. The wooden walkway makes exploring with a stroller easier than some of the other waterfall hikes. Make sure to park at the Bond Falls Loop Trailhead for the accessible route.
Plan Your Family Adventure
Ontonagon County is an ideal spot for family-friendly activities that promise unforgettable experiences without costing too much money. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm community, it’s the perfect destination for a memorable family getaway. Come discover all we have to offer!