The 8 Best Things to do Good for Kids in Charlevoix, Michigan (MI)

See up to eleven Lake Michigan Lighthouses by Air - Most rarely seen. Also see the beauty of the Beaver Archipelago. Remote deserted islands, gorgeous blue water – you might think you are in the Caribbean. May even spot an historic ship wreck from the air on your tour. Our aircraft offer great visibility to take plenty of pictures. Quiet and comfortable. Let us help you build a package that is best for you.

Enjoy a short cruise around the south side of Round Lake while viewing amazing homes and boathouses on our way out to Lake Charlevoix where we pop the sails. After sailing Lake Charlevoix, take a break with a quick swim before heading back through Round Lake’s north side. Blow the horn to open the bridge as we pass the “mushroom houses,” travel through the channel into Lake Michigan and spend the rest of the trip sailing the Great Lake before returning to the dock.Help raise and trim the sails or take the wheel and feel the exhilaration of steering a 40 ft long, 24ft wide custom offshore sailing catamaran. Whether a short swim off the boat or catching a spectacular sunset, Sunshine Charters will provide a one of a kind experience. Sunshine II is a Coast Guard inspected catamaran built for blue water sailing, ensuring you a safe and smooth ride on her spacious open deck. Sunshine Charters has over 15 years of providing safe and memorable sailing around Charlevoix the Beautiful!Private charters are available for groups up to 29 passengers. We will customize a sail to meet any group’s needs and itinerary: bridal, company, family, memorial, or friends.Daily Sail Times and Fares: 11:30-1:30-$35, 3:00-5:00-$35, 7:15-Sunset $40.00 -- (Children under 12, $10.00 off) Tickets available at the “Go Sailing” kiosk, of the Charlevoix City Harbor Master’s office, near the big white catamaran. Purchase tickets 15 minutes prior to departure.What to bring: sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, camera, jacket, snacks, alcohol or otherwise (pop & water are FREE)Credit cards accepted (5% discount for cash) 15% gratuity for the crew is anticipated

Open year round, Castle Farms is one of Northern Michigan's top historic attractions, as well as one of the Midwest's premier wedding venues. Visitors can stroll throughout the magnificent stone buildings dating back to 1918, and enjoy gorgeous gardens. A variety of museum quality collections featuring castles, antique toys, and royalty memorabilia from around the world are displayed throughout the buildings. The Castle's 1918 Museum showcases items from that time era, plus World War I memorabilia. Children delight in feeding the huge rainbow trout swimming in the Reflection Pond, playing a game of giant chess, or hide-and-seek with the fairies and gnomes dwelling in the Enchanted Forest. Our Self-Guided Tours offer Scavenger Hunt tours for children, too! Everyone loves The Castle's Garden Railroad; with more than 1/2 mile of track and 68 G-scale trains, it's one of the largest in the State. Listed on both the National and State Historic Registries, Castle Farms is a world-class historic property where old world charm and modern-day elegance enchant visitors of all ages.

Beaver Island Boat Company has been providing the most relaxing, affordable transportation for people, pets, vehicles, and freight to Beaver Island for over 30 years and reservations for passengers are never required. A trip aboard one of our ferries is a must for those who believe the journey should be just as wonderful as the destination. Enjoy a 2 hour boat ride across 32 miles of Lake Michigan in one of our open air decks or relax in a passenger cabin. Whether you spend a day or week we’re sure you’ll fall in love with Beaver Island. Beaver Island offers – nature lovers and sportsmen alike – pristine woods, isolated beaches, hiking and biking trails, and uncrowded campsites. Fine dining, hotels, motels, bed & breakfasts and cottage rentals await those looking for an extended getaway. Those searching for a truly removed up-north destination will find it on Beaver Island.