by Gabrielle Trembley
Best Amusement Parks in Michigan
Look no further for the best amusement parks in Michigan.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie like me, you know there’s no better feeling than being in the front row of a rollercoaster.
Amusement parks are my ultimate happy place. Being surrounded by rides, hearing the screams of excitement all around, smelling the delicious food, seeing smiles on everyone’s faces, feeling the rush of anticipation when you get to the front of the line, it’s a day like no other.
Lucky for us, Michigan is home to many tourist attractions, amusement parks and theme parks, all ready and waiting.
Summertime is the perfect time to schedule a trip to one of Michigan’s exciting theme parks and amusement parks. Gather your family or a group of friends and get ready to make some memories.
Amusement Parks in West Michigan
Michigan’s Adventure Amusement Park and Michigan’s WildWater Adventure
4750 Whitehall Rd, Muskegon, MI 49445
Michigan’s Adventure Theme Park in Muskegon County is an amusement park and water park wrapped up in one. With over 60 rides, they have attractions for both kids and adults to enjoy.
Each ride is ranked by thrill level from one to five, so you’ll know what you’re getting yourself into. If you’re really wanting to get that heart rate pumping, get in line for the RipCord, Shivering Timbers, and Thunderhawk.
Looking for something more low-key family rides or fun for kids? Hop on the Frog Hopper, the Carousel, or the Giant Gondola Wheel. In the autumn, watch for the Tricks and Treats fall fest. If you have little ones who aren’t ready for the big rides yet, take them over to Camp Snoopy, which contains five family-friendly rides and a large climb-and-play structure with tons of interactive features and things to climb.
Don’t forget your bathing suit. You’ll want to experience the thrills of Michigan’s largest outdoor waterpark (it’s also Michigan’s largest amusement park). Whether you want to zoom down the 63-foot tall Funnel of Fear, play in the wave pools or just float along the Lazy River, you’re guaranteed to have a good time.
Michigan’s Adventure Waterpark (Wildwater Adventure) is a top Michigan travel destination, and the park features dining options and RV camping nearby. One of Cedar Fairs most popular family entertainments venure, season passes are available to Michigan’s Adventures Water Park. Be aware, there are some height requirements on some of the rides.
PRO-TIP: You’ll find options for RV parking near Michigan’s Adventure; you can use our guide to Michigan’s Adventure for information for vacations rentals, a tickets deal and more.
Craig’s Cruisers
5730 Clyde Park Ave SW, Wyoming, MI 49509
The fun shouldn’t stop just because it’s cold outside. With both outdoor and indoor entertainment, Craig’s Cruisers offers exciting activities that can be enjoyed all throughout the year. Their outdoor attractions include Go-Karts, Bumper Boats, Zip Lines, Mini-Golf, and The 360 ride. But who says you can’t experience the same thrills in the dead of winter?
The real fun starts indoors, starting with the Cruiser Coaster–a compact roller coaster that gives you the same sensation as an outdoor coaster would. After that, hop on over to the Frog Hopper and enjoy the lovely bird’s eye view of the arcade floor, jam packed with all your favorite arcade games.
Let your competitive nature run free on the indoor Go-Kart track, Bumper Cars, and the Laser Tag arena.
If that’s not enough, they also have a huge Trampoline Park, where you can practice Parkour, play a friendly game of dodgeball, and shoot some hoops. With so many varying attractions, Craig’s Cruisers is the perfect destination where people of all ages are bound to have lots of fun.
Air Zoo
6151 Portage Rd, Portage, MI 49002
Air Zoo is truly a place like no other on Earth. With the commitment to provide guests with an immersive and engaging experience, they present a perfect combination of education and fun.
Throughout its 40 years of existence, Air Zoo has grown from a nine-plane hangar display to a stunning, world-class aerospace and science education center with over 100 rare aircrafts and spacecrafts, interactive exhibits, and cutting-edge educational programs for all ages.
Start your journey on the Century of Flight Ferris Wheel, giving you an awesome view of the exhibits. Then, celebrate the invention of hot air balloons on the Montgolfier Balloon Race. Enjoy steering your own biplane on the Flying Circus Biplane Ride.
Experience the sensation of weightlessness on the Paratrooper Jump. And finally, strap yourself into the 3D Full-Motion Flight Simulator, one of the most advanced in the world. You’re in full control as you pilot stunt planes, dogfight in the skies over the Pacific, and battle against giant robots.
In addition to these exciting rides, Air Zoo features incredible, thought-provoking exhibits, and dozens of hands-on learning opportunities. Whether or not you have a passion for air and spacecrafts, this multifaceted facility has something for everyone to enjoy.
Nelis’ Dutch Village Holland
12350 James St, Holland, MI 49424
This family-friendly park in Holland MI offers a delightful blend of Dutch culture, heritage, and amusement all in one place!
Step into a world of tulips and windmills at Dutch Village as you wander through the meticulously crafted streets, showcasing authentic Dutch architecture. From wooden clogs to delectable Dutch treats, there’s something to captivate visitors of all ages.
Children can revel in the joy of the Dutch-themed playground and interactive activities, while adults can relish in the shopping experience filled with traditional crafts and souvenirs. Amusement park rides include a carousel, a Ferris wheel, a swiping swing ride and Petal Pumper cars.
Silver Beach Center and Carousel
333 Broad St, St Joseph, MI 49085
Step into a world of nostalgia as you take a spin on the beautifully restored Silver Beach Carousel, featuring hand-carved and hand-painted animals that will surely bring a smile to your face.
Besides the carousel, this family-friendly amusement park boasts interactive water fountains, exciting playgrounds, and beachside picnicking areas, ensuring that everyone in the family has a fantastic time.
Mid-Michigan Amusement Park
Zehnder’s Splash Village
1365 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734
There’s more than 50,000 sq. ft. of indoor aquatic fun at Zehnder’s Splash Village in Frankenmuth.
You’ll love the six-story family raft ride, a super loop body slide, a zero-entry activity pool with water geysers, basketball, volleyball, and more. Explore the Action River, Splash Landing play area, Dumping Bucket, Giggling Gorge, and Perilous Plunge 4-story tube slides for non-stop thrills. Relax in two Whimsical Whirl Hot Tubs or float along the tranquil Crooked Brook Creek Lazy River.
Press Play 989 (formerly Kokomos Family Fun Center Saginaw)
5200 Kokomo Dr, Saginaw, MI 48604
Home to Mid-Michigan’s ONLY roller coaster, The Serpent, this tourist attraction in Saginaw is a must-visit if you’re looking for some family fun.
This family entertainment center features a 19-hole miniature golf course, go-karts, bumper boats, laser tag, batting cages, arcade games, water wars, and an indoor golf dome.
Amusement Parks in Northern Michigan
Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark Boyne Falls
1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713
Boyne Mountain’s Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark is one of the top tourist atractions in northern Michgan and with good reason. Adrenaline junkies are in for a treat, with a plethora of exhilarating water slides, from heart-pounding drops to twisting turns,
If you prefer a more relaxed vibe, grab an inner tube and float along the lazy river, or soak up the sun at the inviting splash pool. For the little ones, the water playground offers endless giggles and joy. Beyond the water attractions, Avalanche Bay also boasts cozy cabanas, mouthwatering dining options, and a charming mountain-lodge atmosphere.
Crystal Mountain
12500 Crystal Mountain Dr, Thompsonville, MI 49683
Experience a one-of-a-kind adventure at Crystal Mountain, where you’ll make memories that last a lifetime. With activities to match every season, it doesn’t matter what time of year you go. While there are no roller coasters per say, this resort provides so many exciting amenities that will give you the same rush of adrenaline that any ride would.
Let’s start with their summer activities, specifically Water’s Edge, which is a one-acre outdoor pool and water playground, featuring a zero-depth entry pool, aquatic playground, water basketball, and three lap lanes.
Next, you’ll want to ride up to the top of the mountain and slide down the Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide, where you control the speed as you cruise down the track with dips, high-bank turns, and a spectacular view.
If you’re not afraid of heights, you’ll want to try their Edge Adventure Course and Zipline, located above their outdoor pool where you’ll get to cross a rickety bridge, jump from swing to swing, balance on a bridge, all before sailing over the pool on a 130-foot zipline. Other activities include chairlift rides, a climbing wall, archery, outdoor laser tag, and so much more.
Planning your trip for the winter? They’ve got you covered. Enjoy skiing and snowboarding down the mountain, fat tire snow biking, ice skating, snow shoeing, and horse drawn surrey rides.
Cedar Valley’s Wild Frontier Fun Park
3780 N Weaver Rd. Comins, MI 48619
Cedar Valley’s Wild Frontier Fun Park, Michigan’s second-largest amusement park, nestled in a unique, wooded oasis.
There is pay-as-you-play pricing with no entry fee, allowing you to relish as much amusement as your heart desires. You’ll find a restored vintage rides that invoke a sense of nostalgia, providing a full day of delightful fun. Encompassing four acres, the park boasts an impressive array of 18 rides that cater to all ages.
Take a break between thrills and challenge yourself on a 19-hole putt-putt course, or test your skills at the slow and fast-pitch batting cages. For those seeking a friendly challenge, try the captivating midway games.
Great Wolf Lodge
3575 US-31, Traverse City, MI 49684
Planning your next family getaway? Look no further than Great Wolf Lodge. This Northwoods-themed resort not only features a 52,000 square foot indoor waterpark, but also MagiQuest (a three-dimensional interactive game), exciting, themed restaurants, a 24-hour arcade room, an 18-hole mini golf course, a rock climbing wall, and more.
Even though the water park is geared mainly toward kids, that doesn’t mean there isn’t fun to be had for the whole family. Start your splashtastic adventure at Fort Mackenzie, an interactive four-story water fort treehouse with tons of slides and toys.
Feel the thrill as you slide down Alberta Falls, a four-story tandem tube ride. Enjoy the gentle curves and bends of the River Canyon Run, a raft water slide designed for the whole family. Test your agility, speed, and coordination on the Big Foot Pass, a unique agility course with floating lily pads.
Young toddlers will have a blast in the Cub Paw Pool, a kiddie swimming pool with plenty of fun activities. Play a friendly game of water basketball in Chinook Cove and jump through floor geysers in Thunder Bay. When you need some time to rest, grab a tube and catch your breath as you float down Crooked Creek, a spectacular lazy river.
The fun doesn’t stop after the water park closes. This is your time to enjoy the other lovely amenities they have to offer, like Ten Paw Alley, Oliver’s Mining Sluice, Howl in One Mini Golf, and the Northern Lights Arcade. With so many attractions that offer nonstop fun, a visit to Great Wolf Lodge is an adventure that you and your family won’t stop talking about.
Amusement Parks In Southeast Michigan
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
42550 Executive Drive Canton, MI 48188
Your kids can jump, spin, flip, and play to their hearts content at this amazing indoor trampoline park. From dodgeball and basketball on trampolines to a ninja wall course and an amazing “Foam Zone,” there is no end to the activities for kids here.
The kids will love the indoor zip line, free climb and trapeze, and the drop slide is pretty cool, too.
Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park
30090 Plymouth Rd, Livonia, MI 48150
This huge trampoline center and play place in Livonia offers tons of opportunities for your kids to jump, soar, race, climb, and play, all indoors.
From glow-in-the-dark bumper cars, a ropes course, climbing walls, giant play structures with tubes and slides, trampolines and more, you won’t run out of things to do here.
Airtime Trampoline & Game Park
662 East Big Beaver Road, Troy, MI 48083
You can have some fun right along with kids at this massive trampoline park in Troy. AirTime offers many interconnected trampolines that include trampoline floors, walls, and dodgeball courts.
You and the kids can try the high ropes course, where participants can climb, balance, and navigate through obstacles, or level up to the ninja course. This challenging course features balance beams, monkey bars, and other obstacles for participants to overcome.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan
4240 Baldwin Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Every kid loves Legos, and what better place to embrace the builder in them than the Sprawling Legoland discovery located at the Great Lakes Crossing Outlet Mall. In addition to building Legos, there’s also on-site building consultants, as well as Lego action figures come to life.
CJ Barrymore’s Entertainment
21750 Hall Rd, Clinton Township, MI 48038
You’ll find both indoor and outdoor fun at this amazing kids play place in Macomb County. Perfect for kids of all ages you’ll find an indoor sprawling indoor amusement park complete with a bowling alley. There’s food here, too, with three food trucks featuring everything from wings to tacos to pizza.
Visit a Michigan Amusement Park
Whether you’re looking for some pure Michigan outdoor activities, a thrill ride or two, or even a beach party or wildwater adventure, we’ve scoured every fun park, family fun center.
More Fun Things to Do in Michigan
- Explore Michigan’s National Parks
- Best Things to Do in Mackinac Island
- Best Date Night Ideas in Grand Rapids
About the Author-
Gabrielle Trembley is a Content Writer at My Michigan Beach. She is a graduating senior at Grand Valley State University with a major in Writing and a minor in Applied Linguistics. She has been a passionate writer ever since she was a child. In her free time, she enjoys reading at the beach, watching her favorite shows, and playing with her kitty.