Planning a trip to Michigan soon? Great choice! This state has tons of fun stuff to see and do. Whether you’re planning to enjoy the lakes, do some hiking, explore the many museums, or something else entirely, you’re sure to have a great time. Of course, you’ll want to squeeze some Michigan amusement parks in there too!
There are a huge number of fantastic amusement parks in Michigan. Each one has something special to offer, and deciding which one to visit can be a bit overwhelming. This is where our article comes into play. After reading this post, you’ll know where to find the best Michigan amusement parks and how to plan the perfect amusement park trip.
Michigan Amusement Parks
Let’s start by discussing our top picks as far as amusement parks in Michigan go. The list below contains family fun centers, water parks, traditional amusement parks, and more. Pick something from this list of favorites and you really can’t go wrong:
- Michigan’s Adventure & WildWater Adventure
- Kokomo’s Family Fun Center
- Arzo Sports & Fun Park
- Nelis Dutch Village
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center
- Craig’s Cruisers
- Double JJ Resort
- Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark
- Great Wolf Lodge
- Boyne Mountain’s Avalanche Bay
Now that you know where to find the best amusement parks in Michigan, let’s talk about what each one has to offer and what you need to know to plan your Michigan amusement park getaway.
Michigan’s Adventure & WildWater Adventure
One of Cedar Fair’s many awesome parks across the country, Michigan’s Adventure in Muskegon is the largest of the Michigan amusement parks. It first opened back in 1956, and has been providing Michigan residents and visitors with an awesome time ever since.
This park is home to a total of 52 amazing rides. Some favorites include the Logger’s Run log flume-style ride, a roller coaster that is aptly named Corkscrew, and the Grand Rapids river rapid ride. Kiddie rides are abundant for the younger set, and there are plenty of family-friendly rides as well.
Don’t forget to head over to the WildWater Adventure section of the property, because you’ll find plenty to do there as well. From awesome water slides to a fun wave pool, you really can’t go wrong splashing and soaking up the sun in this super fun corner of the park.
RV Camping Near Michigan’s Adventure & WildWater Adventure
An RV is the way to go when it comes to lodging options near Michigan’s Adventure. Staying this way gives you the freedom to park in comfort anywhere. It also allows you to spread out in your own space after a long day of adventuring.
Fisherman’s Landing and Campground — Not sure where to park your RV during your visit to this theme park? Fisherman’s Landing and Campground is a great option. This campground offers potable water and electric hookups and is right on the water. It’s the perfect place for those looking to fish, but also makes a good affordable homebase for those exploring the area.
Planning Your Trip to Michigan’s Adventure & WildWater Adventure
Daily admission to Michigan’s Adventure starts at $39.99, and a two-day ticket can be purchased at a discounted rate of just $65. Plan to visit more than two days? Consider investing in a season pass. An all-season dining pass is a great add-on if you do decide to go with the season pass.
There is a fee to park at this amusement park, and rental lockers are available as well. Outside food is not allowed, so be sure to budget to eat in the park or plan to leave for meal times.
Kokomo’s Family Fun Center
Prefer an amusement center over a traditional amusement park? Kokomo’s Family Fun Center in Saginaw might be the place for you. This place is chock-full of amazing things to do, and because there are so many options, you’re bound to find something that everyone in your family loves at this one of the Michigan amusement parks.
One of the main attractions at Kokomo’s is the awesome go-kart track. Those who enjoy racing are sure to appreciate this aspect. That said, this is far from the only thing to do, with other favorites including laser tag and mini golf. Of course, you have to spend some time collecting tickets to trade for prizes in the arcade!
All of that playing is sure to leave you feeling hungry. Fortunately, Kokomo’s is also home to an excellent concession stand. Grab a pizza and a soda or even just a small snack to tide you over as you have fun.
RV Camping Near Kokomo’s Family Fun Center
We highly recommend RV camping when visiting Michigan. This gives you the freedom to jump from one part of the state to another and really experience it all. Not only that, but RV camping tends to put you in the middle of nature as well, meaning you can really take in the beauty of this amazing state.
Frankenmuth Jellystone Park — Looking for a place to park your trailer or motorhome while checking out Kokomo’s? We love Frankenmuth Jellystone Park. Here, you’ll find lovely full-hookup sites and tons of family fun. Whether your kids prefer character meets, organized activities, playground fun, or pool time, they’ll find it at this awesome campground.
Planning Your Trip to Kokomo’s Family Fun Center
Prices at Kokomo’s Family Fun Center vary based on activity. That said, this amusement spot runs specials on a regular basis, so be sure to check their Facebook page before you head out to see if there’s a deal that will work well for you.
As mentioned before, there is a snack stand at this park. Therefore, visitors are not allowed to bring in outside food and drink.
Arzo Sports & Fun Park
Another fantastic family fun center, Arzo Sports & Fun Park is located in Alpena. This awesome park offers a variety of super fun activities. This means you’ll likely be able to please every single person in your group, no matter how varied their interests happen to be.
Go-karts are one of the main draws to this place, and they are quite fun. That said, we also really love the bumper cars, bungee jump, laser tag, and batting cages. Golf lovers will appreciate the driving range, and mini golfers will adore the putt-putt course. Other attractions include a Ferris wheel, a small roller coaster, a carousel, the Orbitron gyroscope ride, a spaceship simulator, and the Gravitron spinning ride.
Lastly, we must mention the arcade at Arzo Sports & Fun Park. Here, you’ll find all kinds of games, including some with super cool 3D effects. How cool is that?
RV Camping Near Arzo Sports & Fun Park
Planning to RV during your time in Alpena? Great choice! This will give you the opportunity to really make yourself at home so you can fully relax and enjoy your vacation. That said, you will of course need to find a place to park your rig. That’s where the location below comes into play.
Alpena County Fairgrounds — Most people don’t think of fairgrounds when looking for RV parking, but sometimes fairgrounds are the very best places to camp. At Alpena County Fairgrounds, campers have a lake view, access to potable water and a dump station, and a 30-amp hookup. That said, the location and amazing low price are the best things about camping here!
Planning Your Trip to Arzo Sports & Fun Park
The cost of a visit to Arzo Sports & Fun Park depends on what you want to do during your visit. That said, the place often has package deals available, and if you plan on doing several things, this tends to be the way to go. Currently, the park has a deal that gets you five activities for only $30. Not a bad deal at all!
For those who get hungry while playing, you’ll find that snacks, drinks, and ice cream are all available for sale at the onsite ice cream parlor.
Nelis’ Dutch Village
An absolutely adorable place, Nelis’ Dutch Village is probably one of the most unique amusement park attractions in the country. Located in Holland, MI, this amusement park celebrates the culture and heritage of the Netherlands by placing visitors in a Dutch village from the 1800s.
The park does play host to some smaller classic amusement park rides such as a carousel, swings, and a super cute windmill ride. That said, the bigger draws here are the many hands-on activities offered. Guests can learn to dance like the Dutch, watch wooden shoes being carved, make their own stroopwafels, and watch cheese being made.
Other fun things offered in the park include reproductions of old buildings, a tulip farm, craft demonstrations, playgrounds and other fun for kids, and a petting zoo.
RV Camping Near Nelis Dutch Village
Of course, you will need somewhere to rest up when visiting this amazing little amusement park. This is where your RV comes into play. Your home-on-wheels will ensure you’re comfortable while exploring all that the state of Michigan has to offer. Need somewhere to stay in your RV? Read on.
Holland State Park — Our favorite place to stay when visiting Dutch Village is Holland State Park. This lovely little park offers inexpensive camping that includes full or partial hookups. An onsite beach provides opportunity for water recreation, and the location really cannot be beat.
Planning Your Trip to Nelis Dutch Village
Admission to Dutch Village is $14 for adults and $13 for kids when bought online. You can buy tickets at the door, but purchasing in advance saves money so we recommend doing that instead. Season passes are also available for those who plan to visit often.
Surprisingly, dogs are welcome to visit the amusement park with their humans. Parking is free, and stroller and wheelchair rentals are available.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan
No, it isn’t a full-fledged LEGOLAND park. Still, LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are a lot of fun, and the location in Auburn Hills, Michigan is no exception. This is the perfect attraction for LEGO fanatics, particularly those in the “under 10” crowd. If that sounds like your little travelers, be sure to set aside a day at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan.
Attractions at this amusement center include a LEGO Merlin-themed pedal-powered flying ride, LEGO character meet-and-greets, an interactive dark ride called Kingdom Quest, a 4D cinema, a VR experience, and more.
Energetic visitors will appreciate the awesome play zone where they can climb, swing, and slide. Meanwhile, avid builders will love the LEGO car building station. Of course, you will want to finish the day by shopping in the LEGO Store.
RV Camping Near LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan
Wondering where to stay during your time in Auburn Hills? RV camping is the way to go. Not only does taking your RV allow you to stay pretty much anywhere in complete comfort, it also gives you the opportunity to hop around the state without much trouble. How’s that for freedom?
Addison Oaks County Park — If you need a place to park while visiting LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Addison Oaks County Park might be the place for you. This simple park features paved sites with water and electricity. A dump station is available, as are restrooms and a laundry room. We love the low rates to camp here and find that it is a perfect home base.
Planning Your Trip to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Michigan
One-day tickets to LEGOLAND Discovery Center start at $24.99. That said, there are many deals listed on the LEGOLAND website, including one that gives you access to multiple attractions for just a bit more. Of course, depending on how many times you plan to visit, you may just want to look into an annual pass. Keep in mind, some annual passes include reciprocal admission to other LEGOLAND attractions.
Outside food and drinks are not allowed in this attraction. That said, there is an onsite cafe which serves up a variety of foods.
Craig’s Cruisers
Craig’s Cruisers Michigan amusement parks are definitely worth a visit while you’re in the state. Since this is a local chain, you might be able to find a location near you fairly easily. Locations are in Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon, and Silver Lake. Even if you have to drive a bit, it’s worthwhile to do so in order to experience one of these awesome family fun centers.
Each of the four locations offers mini golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and a variety of other classic attractions. An arcade is also available at each fun center, meaning lots of game-playing excitement. Additionally, the Muskegon location has an awesome trampoline park that is sure to keep the kids busy for hours.
Like to eat while you play? The Grand Rapids location boasts a full-fledged restaurant onsite, meaning you can enjoy a delicious meal without ever stopping the fun.
RV Camping Near Craig’s Cruisers
Hoping to camp while visiting Craig’s Cruisers? You’re in luck because this area is home to plenty of great RV parks. All you have to do is show up with your home-on-wheels and you’ll be all set to have a safe and comfortable stay.
Steamboat Park Campground — Located near the majority of the Craig’s Cruisers locations, Steamboat Park Campground is a great place to stay while exploring this area of Michigan. Campers love the spot right on the Grand River, and the full-hookup sites help ensure you’re comfortable during your stay. Of course, kids appreciate the pool and playground, and parents love the serenity of the place.
Planning Your Trip to Craig’s Cruisers
Rates vary based on attraction and location. You can pick and choose just a few attractions to enjoy, or you can budget for fun and go all out. Some locations offer special deals for those who wish to enjoy several attractions, so be sure to look for those before you buy.
Other than the Grand Rapids location, none of these fun centers have food available for sale, so be sure to eat before you arrive.
Double JJ Resort
It is impossible to be bored when you’re staying at Double JJ Resort in Rothbury. This place truly has it all! From an Old West town and two different water parks to mini golf, an arcade, and horseback riding, you’re sure to find something you love when visiting this amazing one of the Michigan amusement parks.
Let’s start by talking about the water parks. One of these parks is open year-round and located indoors. Here, you’ll find waterslides, a lazy river, a wave pool, a toddler pool, and more. Outside, there is a second water park, which is open seasonally and plays host to a single waterslide, a splash pad, swimming pools, and a hot tub.
The mini golf course has a mythical forest theme which includes bright colors, black lights, and a totally magical vibe. Meanwhile, the Wooden Nickel Arcade has an old-school vibe. Of course, you’ll also want to make time for a horseback trail ride, exploring the “Back Forty Western Town”, and hiking the many onsite trails.
Visiting in the winter? Don’t forget to go snow tubing as well!
RV Camping Near Double JJ Resort
One of the best things about spending some of your Michigan adventures at Double JJ Resort? You can actually stay onsite in your RV! That’s right, this resort has an onsite RV campground, meaning you can stay right in the middle of the fun.
Double JJ Resort Campground — Sites in the campground are located in the middle of the “Back Forty Western Town”, meaning you’ll never have to leave your bubble of fun. There are primitive, partial-hookup, and full-hookup sites available and rates start at just $37 a night. Additionally, the RV park is pet-friendly so Fido can come along too!
Planning Your Trip to Double JJ Resort
The cost to play at Double JJ Resort will depend entirely upon what you want to do while you’re there. An indoor waterpark ticket will cost between $20 and $35 per person depending on when you visit, meanwhile, admission to the outdoor waterpark is just $10 for off-site guests and $5 for those staying onsite. Costs for mini golf, horseback riding and other attractions vary.
One of the best things about parking your rig at the onsite campground is the ability to head back to the RV to make food. That said, if you aren’t in the mood to cook, there are places to purchase food on resort property.
Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark
Located in Frankenmuth, Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel and Waterpark is another great place to go for some waterpark fun. This resort offers two distinct indoor water parks, so it’s easy to fill a couple of days with fun during your time here.
Wondering what kinds of slides and rides you can expect from these water parks? How does a four-person family raft ride sound? There’s also a speed slide along with some tube slides, meaning thrill seekers are sure to be happy during their time at this resort.
Other fun things offered in the water parks include a water play area (complete with a dump bucket, of course), a lazy river, a zero-entry pool, water sports, a movie night, an arcade, and more.
RV Camping Near Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark
When it comes to lodging on road trips, you really can’t beat the convenience and comfort that comes with RV camping. Why not skip the hotel stay during your visit to Zehnder’s Splash Village and stay in your RV instead? The aforementioned Jellystone Park in Frankenmuth is a great place to park, but another wonderful park is listed below.
Pine Ridge RV Campground — A wonderful and simple family campground, Pine Ridge RV Campground is an excellent place to call home during your time in Michigan. Here, you will be greeted by friendly staff and placed in a full-hookup site. The location of this place is awesome and the price is more than fair.
Planning Your Trip to Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark
Admission to Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark starts at $40 for a half day and $48 for a full day. Rates do go up on weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.
While outside food is not allowed in the water parks, there are dining options in the resort. Elf Hollow Cafe is a particularly popular option for park guests. Here, you’ll find foods such as pizza, burgers, salads, nachos, and sandwiches.
Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City
Like other Great Wolf Lodge locations, this Traverse City resort is an excellent place to have a great time. Touted as the “best indoor water park in Michigan,” this place boasts all kinds of slides, swimming areas, and other fun attractions. In fact, we can’t imagine not having a good time during a visit to this attraction.
Some favorite attractions at this Great Wolf Lodge include the Fort Mackenzie interactive water play area, the Crooked Creek lazy river, and of course, the many different water slides. We also really enjoy the River Canyon Run family river raft ride, and adults appreciate the hot tubs.
Other fun attractions in the resort include the “magical” game of MagiQuest, an arcade, mini golf, a Build-a-Bear Workshop, and plenty of dining options.
RV Camping Near Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City
You could, of course, stay in the Great Wolf Lodge hotel rooms. That said, we much prefer the privacy and comforts of home that an RV provides. For this reason, we would choose RV camping and visiting the lodge on a day pass any day.
Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park — Obviously, you will need someplace to park that RV. For this, we recommend Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park. This beautiful little park offers a lovely natural setting, electric hookups, access to water and a dump station, and modern restrooms. Additionally, you can book this campground at an excellent rate!
Planning Your Trip to Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City
Prices of day passes vary depending on whether you want to visit for a full day or a half day, as well as when you plan to visit. That said, you can plan to spend around $60 or more for a half day, and $70 or more for a full day.
Guests may not bring outside food or drinks into Great Wolf Lodge. However, there are lots of excellent dining options in the resort. Why not dine at one of these restaurants and make your fun day even more fun?
Boyne Falls’ Avalanche Bay
This last of the Michigan amusement parks line up is another hotel water park. That said, it is Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark and is well worth checking out. In fact, Boyne Falls’ Avalanche Bay might even be our favorite waterpark in the state.
This park offers 88,000 square feet of splashing excitement. Four pools ensure everyone has a place to have their own water fun, and the seven different waterslides come in a variety of styles and sizes, so there is something for both thrill seekers and those who prefer a milder ride.
Of course, adults appreciate the hot tubs, and everyone loves the lazy river, as well as the surf simulator.
RV Camping Near Boyne Mountain’s Avalanche Bay
Staying in the Boyne Mountain resort rooms is one option. However, we prefer bringing an RV along for some RV camping fun before and after our waterpark visit. This allows you more freedom, privacy, and comfort as you explore the state of Michigan.
Young State Park — Clearly, you will need somewhere to park your RV as you explore the waterpark and other area attractions. Luckily, Young State Park is nearby. This nice park is in a great location, offers power hookups, and a dump station. People love the quiet vibe of the place, as well as the swimming beach.
Planning Your Trip to Boyne Mountain’s Avalanche Bay
Date rates at Avalanche Bay start at $40 for adults. That said, there are ways to save on that rate. For instance, the park offers reduced rates for those who wish to play on Friday and Saturday nights and those with military ID receive a 20% discount every day.
As one might expect, outside food is prohibited at the waterpark. That said, the resort does offer plenty of onsite dining options to choose from. It’s also good to know that the park offers complimentary towels to guests.
As you can see, Michigan amusement parks have a lot to offer the theme park lover. Not only that, there happen to be great amusement parks around every corner in this state. If you somehow find that the parks listed above aren’t enough, try searching “amusement parks near me” once you get checked into your campground to see what other gems you can find.
Prefer to add some fun to your trip in the form of other kinds of attractions? We can help you out there too! Check out the articles below for some more ideas of things to do in Michigan:
