Family-Friendly Summer Fun in Southwest Michigan

Summers in Southwest Michigan are full of relaxing beach days, stunning sunset walks, al fresco dining, wine tasting among the vineyards, farmers markets strolls, and countless other adventures. There is something to enjoy for all ages and interests and honestly the hardest part will be deciding where to start. That's why each month I'll be featuring a mini destination guide to a different area within the region to help you plan an unforgettable summer. Be sure to check back to this post regularly for new recommendations or visit swmi.org for additional customized itineraries. 

Note: This post is created in partnership with Southwest Michigan Tourist Council. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

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Niles - 2nd & Main, Riverfront Park, Fernwood Botanical Garden & River Saint Joe

Start the day off right at 2nd & Main Coffeehouse which is located in the heart of downtown Niles. Here you can sip on one their rotating seasonal drinks or try four different varieties (hot or iced) when you order a signature coffee flight. They even have a kid-friendly flight option! Their food menu features smoothie bowls, toasts, paninis and more. In the afternoon and evening hours they transform into a wine and cocktail bar. 

After your caffeine fix, head to Riverfront Park to let your little ones burn off some energy. The park is home to one of the largest playgrounds around featuring nine different slides and something fun for all ages to enjoy. In addition to the playground, the park is located right along the river with a paved walking path, swings, and workout equipment. 

​Continue your outdoor adventures at Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve. Here you can enjoy miles of hiking trails and beautiful gardens at this 105 acre property. There is so much here for families to enjoy here including a Miniature Railway Garden and a Children's Nature Adventure Garden with a slide, outdoor games, and metal sculptures. Be sure to pick up a scavenger hunt and keep your eyes peeled to see what you might find. Inside the welcome center guests can also enjoy a cafe serving mouth-watering pies and other treats as well as a gift shop with nature-inspired goods.

End your day at River Saint Joe, a farmstead brewery where you can enjoy food and drinks made with ingredients grown on the farm or just down the road. On tap they offer farmhaus ales, wine, cider and non-alcoholic sodas. Their food menu changes regularly based on the local harvest. In addition to their stunning taproom, their outdoor space features fire pits, a bocce ball court and covered picnic table seating. 

Stevensville - Library, Playground, Splash Pad, Dogslinger & Peat's Cider Social

Start your morning at Lincoln Township Library which recently underwent a full remodel. Their children’s area is beautifully designed with engaging, open-ended toys, STEM stations, and of course plenty of books for all ages. Located directly behind the library is Lincoln Township Community Center Park. Here kids can run, jump and splash the day away. The playground features climbing equipment, swings, and slides suitable for a wide range of ages as well as an adjacent 1,874 square foot splash pad. The water is touch activated an features a tunnel, frog fountain, water blasters, and other interactive elements.. There is also a community center onsite with covered picnic tables and restrooms, pickleball courts, sand volleyball courts, and a paved walking path with a storybook trail. 

For lunch, head to DogSlinger which is home to the "best dogs on this side of Lake Michigan." You can enjoy classic hot dogs and sausages, or if you're feeling adventurous, try one of their gourmet dogs which come loaded with insane toppings. Think pizza dog, nacho dog, and buffalo dog! There is definitely something for all ages to enjoy here. 

End your day at Peat's Cider Social which is sure to win you the cool parent award. This retro 1960's bowling alley has been beautifully restored with a fun and funky mid-century vibe. Here you can bowl by the hour, play arcade games, or sip cider on their open air patio. The patio is dog friendly and features plenty of seating and various yard games. Outside drinks are not permitted but you can bring your own food.