When we moved here from Nashville, it was a little bit of a culture shock. We traded bustling, nonstop energy for slow mornings, porch hangs, and the kind of town where nobody knows a stranger.
As a local Michigan photographer and mom of four, I’ve come to see this area through both lenses — the beauty of Lake Michigan sunsets (one of our beaches was even voted Best Beach in Michigan by USA Today) and the simple joy of everyday family life here.
And while life moves at a different pace, we are definitely not short on fun.
This little slice of West Michigan truly offers a bit of everything. From charming downtown strolls and Lake Michigan beaches to plenty of kid-friendly activities (including playgrounds that actually tire the kids out), it’s small-town vibes with just enough adventure mixed in. Here’s my go-to guide for where to stay, eat, and explore.
I’ll keep updating this list as we discover new favorites. Let me know if we need to add one.
Where to Stay:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Manistee Waterfront – Right across the street from 1st beach. They have fire pits on the back patio, an indoor/outdoor hot tub and a pool! This would probably be my first pick if you wanted a hotel type vibe. It’s the absolute perfect location for fun and convenience!
- Little River Casino Resort – They have a pool and many dining options right on the resort.
- Manistee National Gulf & Resort – Pool and gulf course!
- Ludington State Park Campground (Ludington) – We really love this campground if you are a family who loves to be outdoors!
- Here is a list of Airbnbs that my clients have recommended. Let me know if you have a place that I can add to this list! There are lots of airbnb options here.
Where to Eat:
- The Outsider (Manistee) – Indoor/outdoor seating. They have pinball machines inside and corn hole outside. This is my favorite for burgers!
- Taco ‘Bout It Mexican Fusion (Manistee) – Mexican inspired food. Tacos and more!
- Stix (Ludington) – Their menu ranges from steaks, seafood, and seasonal options, to burgers and salads. They have bowling lanes and often hosts live entertainment as well!
- Nuvu (Manistee) – Yes… it’s a gas station, but they are known for their delicious pizza! This is my personal favorite pizza.
- Big Al’s Pizza (Manistee) – Local’s love Big Al’s stromboli! This is definitely a take out type of place though 😅
- House of Flavors (Ludington) – If you’re willing to make a short drive to Ludington, this classic ice cream parlor and restaurant is a hit with families. Their homemade ice cream is perfect for a sweet treat after your meal
- Alpine Chocolate haus (Manistee) – ICE CREAM!!! And chocolate and candy… vacation calories don’t count. 😘
- Blue Fish Kitchen + Bar (Manistee) – Their food is fresh and local! I do not believe they have a kids menu, but this would still be a great option for families with older kids who can appreciate the more sophisticated menu 😉
- The Golden Stag (Manistee – my personal favorite!) – This is a fusion of Italian, Greek, and Middle-Eastern and it is my all time favorite restaurant in this area. It’s SO GOOD! They do offer a kids menu, but this is also a small cozy restaurant… just in case your little ones are energetic 😉 you might want to keep that in mind.
- Trophies (Manistee) – A cafe with coffee, breakfast, and lunch items
- Port City Brew (Manistee – my pick for coffee) – Coffee & smoothies
Where to play:
- Lighthouse Park – This is a huge wooden playground. My kids love it. For some reason it’s hard to find an address for it, but it is located on Cherry St. between First St. and Harbor Dr. You can’t miss it 😉
- Rotary Park – My kids call this the “squishy park” because the floor in the play area is padded. It’s located on First St. just after the round-a-bout.
- First Street Beach & Playground – The playground is on the beach.
- Manistee Riverwalk – It’s stroller-friendly, and there are plenty of places to stop and sit.
- Orchard Beach State Park – For a quick nature escape, Orchard Beach offers hiking, picnicking, and a chance to explore the outdoors. It’s perfect for families who love to be outside.
- Sandcastles Children’s Museum (Ludington) – This is such a neat place for the kids to explore and play!
- The Vogue – Super cute historic theater! They do a .25 cent family matinee on Saturday mornings at 10:00am!
If you’re visiting and thinking, “This would actually be the perfect place for updated family photos…” — you’re not wrong. 😉
I photograph families throughout Manistee and along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, and these beaches truly are something special.
But whether you’re here for photos or just making memories, I hope this guide helps you love this area as much as we do.
