Spend time this summer or fall along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan in the historic town of Frankfort, Michigan. Located in the Greater Traverse City area, Frankfort is a great spot for family travelers to enjoy a long weekend.
© Traverse City Tourism
Explore Historic Lighthouses
There are several great lighthouses in the area. The Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse was incorporated into the town’s gateway arch in 1925 to welcome visitors and has served as a symbol of the town’s maritime heritage. Located further up the lakefront is Point Betsie, which has continuously run since 1858 to guide mariners on the lake. Families can visit for a quick tour of the museum or even spend the night to experience the life of a coast guard lighthouse keeper.
In downtown Frankfort, this public beach is an ideal spot to watch the sunset, walk along the sand or take in sights of the city. See the focal point of the whole town here, as well as the twin piers and lighthouse creating Frankfort Harbor.
© Traverse City Tourism
The city’s downtown is a tribute to the past. Stroll down the streets lined with colorful, Victorian-style homes. Downtown also features charming shops, cafés, restaurants and more, all housed within historic buildings. Families will love Vita Bella, a family-run Italian restaurant serving Neapolitan specialties and a wide select of wood-fired pizzas.
Stay in a Historic Hotel
Enjoy a cozy getaway at Hotel Frankfort, a historic boutique property with just 17 rooms, each decorated to a unique theme. This hotel once served sailors on Lake Michigan in the 19th century.
Fall Events
One of the most popular events in Frankfort is Frankfort Film Festival, Oct. 17–20, at the historic Garden Theatre. The festival celebrates 100 years this year and features award-winning films from around the world.
Read This Next
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedHotels
May 9, 2025Crowne Plaza’s Bring Your Bestie Promotion
On your next round of family travel, Crowne Plaza by IHG says “bring your bestie!” The hotel brand launched its new promotion in response to evolving travel trends. The brand’s Leading the Charge in Blended Travel’s white paper finds the rise of hybrid working made way for a new trend of inviting friends and loved ones to join business trips. In a survey of more than 12,000 people, 74 percent of U.S. travelers said they would invite a friend or family member on a work trip, with Gen Z and millennials most likely to do so.
Hotels
May 7, 2025Gaylord Hotels Unveils Super Hero-Filled DC Summer
Gaylord Hotels, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, launches a first-of-its-kind experience perfect for summer family travel. DC Summer debuts at select Gaylord properties later this month.
Hotels
May 7, 2025Bali Resort Opens Playground Paradise Exclusively for Kids
Already a favorite amongst family travelers, AYANA Bali further expands its kid-friendly offerings with the opening of RIMBA Jungle Adventure, an imaginative, multi-layer playground located on site. This new and immersive playground invites young explorers to engage in the world of nature, creativity and hands-on learning.
Hotels
May 6, 2025Celebrate National Pet Week at 4 San Francisco Hotels
Known as America’s most dog-friendly city, San Francisco rolls out the red carpet for four-legged traveling companions. National Pet Week, May 4–10, is a good time to take these important members of your family for a stay in Golden Gate City.
Multigenerational
May 6, 2025Kid- and Grandparent-Approved Multigen Travel Spots
Looking for a multigenerational family travel destination? Here’s some suggestions around the globe:
Cruises
May 5, 2025MSC Cruises Debuts New Family Entertainment
Family travelers will soon enjoy new family entertainment at sea as MSC Cruises recently announced a new lineup of experiences for guests of all ages.
ShareThis