Explore the Wonders of Great Lakes Children's Museum
Discover interactive learning at the Great Lakes Children's Museum, a fun-filled destination for families visiting Traverse City, Michigan.
The Great Lakes Children's Museum offers a delightful experience for families, where learning and play come together in an engaging environment. Situated in Traverse City, Michigan, this museum features interactive exhibits that ignite curiosity and creativity in young minds. With its focus on the Great Lakes region, children can explore various themes related to science, nature, and local wildlife, making it an enriching destination for tourists of all ages.
A brief summary to Great Lakes Children's Museum
- 13240 S W Bay Shore Dr, Traverse City, Greilickville, Michigan, 49684, US
- +1231-932-4526
- Visit website
- Monday 12 pm-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
- Check the museum's website for special events and workshops that may be happening during your visit.
- Bring a water bottle and snacks, as the museum has designated areas for families to relax and recharge.
- Take advantage of the outdoor space around the museum for a picnic or additional playtime after your visit.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are traveling by car, start by getting on US-31 N from your current location in East Michigan. Depending on where you are, you may need to follow local roads to reach US-31. Once on US-31 N, continue driving until you reach the exit for M-72 W. Take the exit toward Traverse City and merge onto M-72 W. Follow M-72 W until it merges into 14th St. Continue on 14th St, then turn left onto S W Bay Shore Dr. The Great Lakes Children's Museum will be on your right at 13240 S W Bay Shore Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684. Be sure to check for parking availability near the museum, as there may be a fee.
-
Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, check for bus routes that serve Traverse City. The Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) provides bus services in the area. You will want to take a bus that heads toward Traverse City and get off at a stop near the downtown area. From there, it is advisable to use a local rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) or a taxi to reach the Great Lakes Children's Museum. The museum is located about 3 miles from downtown Traverse City, and a rideshare will cost approximately $10-$15 depending on traffic.
-
Bicycle
For a more adventurous option, consider cycling to the Great Lakes Children's Museum. If you are in Traverse City, you can use the local bike paths to reach the museum. Start at the Traverse City Commons and head towards the waterfront trail. Follow the trail along the bay until you reach S W Bay Shore Dr. Turn left, and you will find the museum at 13240 S W Bay Shore Dr. Remember to wear a helmet and check that your bike is in good condition before starting your ride.
Discover more about Great Lakes Children's Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Traverse Tall Ship Company
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of Traverse City aboard the Traverse Tall Ship Company’s majestic vessels for a memorable sailing adventure on Lake Michigan.
Frenchies Famous
2.1 km
Experience the taste of Traverse City at Frenchies Famous, where breakfast and lunch come together to create unforgettable meals.
Aberdeen Stone Cottage
2.2 km
Experience the charm of Aberdeen Stone Cottage, a unique indoor lodging in Traverse City, MI, blending historic elegance with modern comfort for an unforgettable stay.
Hotel Indigo Traverse City, an IHG Hotel
2.4 km
Discover luxury and local charm at Hotel Indigo Traverse City, the perfect retreat for tourists exploring Michigan's stunning landscapes and vibrant culture.
Loco Boys Brewing Company
2.5 km
Discover the finest craft beers and delicious bites at Loco Boys Brewing Company in Traverse City, a true gem for beer lovers and foodies.
Handz On Art - Paint Your Own Pottery
2.5 km
Explore your artistic side at Handz On Art, Traverse City's premier pottery painting studio, perfect for families and friends looking for a creative outing.
Bijou by the Bay
2.6 km
Discover Bijou by the Bay, a charming movie theater in Traverse City, offering stunning waterfront views and a diverse film selection.
Central Neighborhood Historic District
2.7 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Traverse City's Central Neighborhood Historic District, a charming journey into the past.
Nifty Things!
2.8 km
Explore the charm of Traverse City at Nifty Things!, your go-to gift shop for unique and handcrafted treasures.
Maggy’s Vintage Shop
2.8 km
Explore the charm of Maggy's Vintage Shop in Traverse City - a treasure trove of antiques and vintage clothing that tells a story.
Clinch Park Beach
2.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Clinch Park Beach in Michigan, a perfect family-friendly escape for relaxation and outdoor fun by the Great Lakes.
7 Monks Taproom
2.8 km
Discover the vibrant craft beer culture at 7 Monks Taproom in Traverse City, where local brews and delicious food come together in a lively atmosphere.
Wilson Antiques
2.8 km
Explore the charm of history at Wilson Antiques in Traverse City, where unique treasures come to life in a captivating shopping experience.
Cherry Republic | Traverse City
2.8 km
Explore Traverse City's Cherry Republic for a unique taste of Michigan, featuring gourmet cherries, artisan chocolates, and delightful gift baskets.
Grand Traverse Distillery Tasting Room
2.8 km
Discover the essence of Traverse City at Grand Traverse Distillery, where exceptional artisanal spirits meet local flavors in a charming tasting room.
Unmissable attractions to see
Discovery Cruises
0.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Traverse City, Michigan, with Discovery Cruises – an unforgettable water adventure in Northern Michigan.
Discovery Pier
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of Lake Michigan at Discovery Pier, a serene park offering fishing, boat tours, and scenic views in Traverse City, Michigan.
Greilickville Harbor Park
0.3 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Greilickville Harbor Park in Traverse City, a perfect destination for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Seaside Sailing Excursions & Charity Charters LLC
0.5 km
Experience the beauty of Traverse City with Seaside Sailing Excursions, offering unforgettable boat tours and scenic adventures on Grand Traverse Bay.
Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail
0.8 km
Discover the enchanting Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail in Traverse City, Michigan, where stunning landscapes and exquisite wines await.
Royce Deans
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant art scene at Royce Deans in Traverse City, MI, featuring diverse contemporary works from local and national artists.
West End Beach
1.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of West End Beach in Traverse City, where sandy shores meet stunning sunsets and endless outdoor adventures await.
Bay Life Getaways
2.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Traverse City with Bay Life Getaways, your premier tour operator for unforgettable adventures in Michigan's Great Lakes.
Traverse City Tourism
2.5 km
Discover Traverse City: A beautiful lakeside destination rich in culture, adventure, and local charm, perfect for every type of traveler.
Clinch Park
2.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational bliss of Clinch Park, Traverse City - a perfect destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
City Opera House
2.7 km
Experience the charm of the historic City Opera House, a premier performing arts venue in Traverse City, Michigan, with a rich lineup of events and performances.
Boardman River Deck
2.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of the Boardman River Deck in Traverse City, Michigan, a perfect escape for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Crooked Tree Arts Center - Traverse City
2.8 km
Explore the dynamic Crooked Tree Arts Center in Traverse City, where art, community, and creativity converge in a vibrant cultural hub.
DeYoung Natural Area
2.9 km
Discover the serene DeYoung Natural Area in Traverse City, a nature preserve with scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Hannah Park
2.9 km
Explore Hannah Park in Traverse City - a serene urban oasis perfect for picnics, walking, and enjoying nature's tranquility.
Essential places to dine
Apache Trout Grill
0.7 km
Experience delectable American cuisine and fresh seafood at Apache Trout Grill with stunning lake views in Traverse City.
Harrington's By The Bay
1.0 km
Discover delectable dishes at Harrington's By The Bay in Traverse City – where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking waterfront views.
Sleder's Family Tavern
2.1 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Sleder's Family Tavern in Traverse City – a historic spot for food lovers and families alike.
Warehouse KiTChen + Cork
2.4 km
Discover Warehouse KiTChen + Cork: A Culinary Delight in Traverse City with Local Flavors and Exceptional Wines.
Slabtown Burgers
2.4 km
Discover the ultimate burger experience at Slabtown Burgers in Traverse City - where fresh ingredients meet mouthwatering flavors.
Modern Bird
2.5 km
Experience modern cuisine at its finest in Traverse City with shareable plates and innovative flavors at Modern Bird.
Little G's Fusion Cuisine
2.5 km
Experience the best of Asian fusion cuisine in Traverse City with unique dishes and vibrant flavors at Little G's.
The Tasting Room Restaurant
2.6 km
Experience exquisite steak and seafood dishes at The Tasting Room Restaurant in Traverse City, where culinary excellence meets local flavors.
J & S Hamburg Downtown
2.6 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and hearty lunches at J & S Hamburg Downtown - Traverse City's cozy dining gem.
Pangea's Pizza
2.7 km
Discover the delicious world of Pangea's Pizza in Traverse City—where unique flavors meet a warm atmosphere.
Poppycocks
2.8 km
Discover Poppycocks in Traverse City - where New American cuisine meets a vibrant cocktail bar in a charming atmosphere.
Millie and Pepper
2.8 km
Experience the unique flavors of Millie and Pepper in Traverse City – where breakfast meets creativity in every bite.
Mama Lu's - A Modern Day Taco Shop
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant taste of authentic Mexican cuisine at Mama Lu's - Traverse City's beloved taco shop offering fresh ingredients and unique flavors.
The Flying Noodle - Italian Pasta House
2.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at The Flying Noodle in Traverse City—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Bootlegger's
2.8 km
Discover Bootlegger's in Traverse City: A delightful grill and pub serving up local flavors with vibrant atmosphere and live entertainment.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Evil Queen
2.5 km
Explore the whimsical charm of Evil Queen in Traverse City, a home goods store offering unique treasures perfect for gifts or home décor.
Relish
2.5 km
Discover unique gifts and locally crafted clothing at Relish, Traverse City’s charming gift shop that embodies Michigan’s creative spirit.
Antiquities Warehouse of Grand Traverse
2.6 km
Explore the Antiquities Warehouse of Grand Traverse for an unforgettable shopping experience filled with unique antiques and salvaged treasures.
slip. vintage
2.7 km
Explore the charm of Slip Vintage in Traverse City, MI, where every piece of clothing tells a story and nostalgia meets style.
Unparalleled Apparel
2.7 km
Discover unique clothing and gifts at Unparalleled Apparel in Traverse City, where local art meets shopping excellence.
Sincerely Betty
2.7 km
Discover chic women's clothing and stylish accessories at Sincerely Betty, a boutique gem in Traverse City, MI, perfect for fashion enthusiasts.
Adore Boutique
2.8 km
Discover unique fashion at Adore Boutique in Traverse City, where style meets quality in a charming shopping experience.
What To Wear
2.8 km
Discover unique fashion finds at What To Wear, a stylish clothing store in Traverse City, Michigan, perfect for every tourist's wardrobe upgrade.
l.a.cool
2.8 km
L.A.Cool - Traverse City's chic women's clothing boutique featuring exclusive high-end brands and stylish fashion selections.
Enjoy Michigan
2.8 km
Explore the heart of Michigan through unique gifts and local crafts at Enjoy Michigan, a must-visit shop in Traverse City.
The Exchange Boutique
2.8 km
Discover unique fashion and accessories at The Exchange Boutique in Traverse City, where style meets local charm.
Tuck's of Traverse City
2.8 km
Discover Tuck's of Traverse City, where Christmas spirit meets unique gifts in a charming atmosphere, perfect for all your holiday shopping needs.
Glitz & Spurs
2.8 km
Explore the stylish allure of Glitz & Spurs Boutique in Traverse City for unique fashion and local charm.
Ella's
2.8 km
Discover Ella's in Traverse City, where fashion meets home decor in a delightful boutique experience for every style enthusiast.
Daisy Jane
2.8 km
Explore stylish women's clothing and unique accessories at Daisy Jane in Traverse City, where local fashion meets friendly service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
2.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Traverse City at Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant, where local ingredients meet a lively atmosphere.
Kilkenny's Irish Public House
2.5 km
Immerse yourself in an authentic Irish experience at Kilkenny's Irish Public House with traditional cuisine, drinks, and vibrant entertainment in Traverse City.
Union Street Station
2.8 km
Experience the charm of Union Street Station, Traverse City's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.
Low Bar
2.8 km
Discover Low Bar in Traverse City – a prohibition-style cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks in a cozy, vintage setting for an unforgettable night out.
Dillinger's Pub
2.8 km
Experience the charm of Dillinger's Pub in Traverse City, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant bar atmosphere in a rustic setting.
The Pub
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Pub in Traverse City, where delicious food, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
North Bar
2.8 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine at North Bar in Traverse City, a must-visit destination for food and drink lovers.
U And I Lounge
2.8 km
Discover the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of U And I Lounge in Traverse City, where great drinks and friendly service await.
Beacon Lounge
3.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beacon Lounge in Traverse City, a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing with a diverse drink selection.
Brady's Bar
3.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Brady's Bar in Traverse City, where great food, craft beers, and friendly service await every visitor.
The Parlor TC
3.2 km
Discover Traverse City's vibrant nightlife at The Parlor TC, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
SideTraxx Dance Bar
3.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at SideTraxx Dance Bar in Traverse City, a perfect spot for dancing and socializing.
Sail Inn Bar & Grill
5.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning views at Sail Inn Bar & Grill in Traverse City, MI.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
33.6 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering sand dunes meet the serene waters of Lake Michigan.
A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort
35.6 km
Discover the ultimate golfing experience and tranquil retreat at A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort, where stunning landscapes meet luxurious accommodations.
