5 Family Summer Vacation Ideas
By Danielle Alexander
Even though Michigan summers are what we Michiganders live for, taking a family trip this season just makes sense since the kiddos are already out of school. Whether you would like to stay in the state or venture somewhere else, I encourage you to book that trip.
Raquel Jalou Orow, the owner of Pure Star Travel in Troy, agrees. “With many airlines and hotels taking the proper safety measures to keep travelers safe, as well as with the vaccine now out, I absolutely encourage everyone to travel this summer,” Orow says. “Traveling allows us to hit the refresh button in our lives and rejuvenates our body and mind.”
Mackinac Island
As a kid, all I remember about Mackinac Island is the fudge (and the stuff all over the street that resembled but definitely was not fudge), so when my husband told me he wanted to book a trip with the kids there last August, I was not overly excited. I also knew that after many months of being at home, we all needed to unplug and get out.
To my surprise, even during the pandemic, it was one of my favorite family trips! The kids loved that we got to leave our car behind and take a ferry to the island. Although you can rent them, we decided to not only bring our bikes with us, but also the bike carrier in case the kids got tired of pedaling. This made getting around the island so much easier, and we never had to book or wait for a horse-drawn taxi to take us into town.
Between visiting Fort Mackinac, shopping in town and dining at a variety of restaurants (our favorite being Woods Restaurant), our days were pretty full. We stayed at the Inn at Stonecliffe where we could wind down at the outdoor pool, which I would highly recommend!
Grand Rapids
Although I would easily repeat our Mackinac Island trip, I was interested to hear a travel agent’s perspective. Out of the four family trips she suggested, the first was Grand Rapids, which is only a couple-hour drive from the metro Detroit area.
“From world-class golf to beautiful beaches to a vibrant downtown, Grand Rapids has it all,” Orow says.
For the family, she highly recommended both John Ball Zoo and Frederik Meijer Gardens, one of the nation’s most significant sculpture and botanical experiences. It includes the state’s largest tropical conservatory, five indoor theme gardens, outdoor gardens, nature trails, a boardwalk and more. If you have toddlers or younger children, Orow said to consider visiting Millennium Park, where you will find a six-acre beach and splash pad complete with sprayers, buckets and splashers.
Hilton Head, South Carolina
If you are in the mood for southern hospitality, Hilton Head is another favorite of Orow’s, especially for those who are seeking an action-packed adventure including bike riding, tennis, fishing and more. It is also the home of Harbour Town Golf Links, which, since 1969, has been where the RBC Heritage on the PGA Tour has been hosted.
“While there, I suggest taking a ferry to Savannah, and you will find yourself on River Street where you can enjoy shopping and dining,” Orow says, “You could also hop on a guided history tour aboard a trolley and learn about over 300 years of history.”
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
If you were hoping for a vacation full of rest and relaxation or wanted to bring along the grandparents, Orow said another spot in South Carolina to check out is Kiawah Island.
She had two restaurant suggestions: The Ryder Cup Bar, which is located at the 18th hole of the Ocean Course, and Mingo Point Oyster Roast and BBQ. At the Ryder Cup, you can sit on the veranda and enjoy a cocktail while taking in incredible views of the Atlantic. It is also the perfect spot to watch the kids play on the practice green while you enjoy dinner. Mingo Point is a hit as well since they roast oysters on an open fire and serve “the best” ribs and pulled pork.
Jackson Hole and Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
Orow described this family trip destination as a “400-square mile gem with everything you need.” If you are in the mood for thrill-seeking activities, there is white water rafting, rock climbing, hiking and fishing.
For animal and nature lovers, she recommends a visit to Yellowstone National Park where you can not only stumble upon bison, wolves, moose, elk, bears and more, but you can see -firsthand - Old Faithful. Also visit the Grand Prismatic Spring, which, because of its breathtakingly bright colors is the most photographed thermal feature at Yellowstone.
Since freelance writer Danielle Alexander did Mackinac Island with her family last year, she is currently deciding which of Orow’s four trip recommendations she plans to take the fam on this summer!
