Rainy Day Adventures at Sleeping Bear Dunes

By: Kaitlyn Kausler

Don’t let a little rain wash out your plans!  Sleeping Bear Dunes still has plenty to offer when the skies turn gray. Whether you're dodging raindrops or looking for a cozy way to explore, these indoor and drive-friendly options are perfect for a rainy day.

Start at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor Center in Empire. It's more than just a stop for maps and a bathroom break, you’ll find unique accessories, park merchandise, and educational displays that highlight the natural and cultural history of the area. You'll find educational displays, including taxidermy animals native to the park, exhibits on how glaciers shaped the dunes, and a short film introducing the Lakeshore’s history and wonders. 

If the rain lets up or you’re up for a scenic drive, don’t miss a cruise through the Pierce Stocking Drive. Even in misty weather, the overlooks provide breathtaking views of the dunes, Lake Michigan, and the lush forest without leaving the comfort of your car.

Then take a short drive to Glen Haven Historic Village, where the Blacksmith Shop is open daily from 11 AM to 5 PM. Watch live demonstrations and learn how blacksmiths helped shape early life in the region. Also open 11 AM to 5 PM are the Cannery Boat Museum and the Maritime Museum, where you can explore the area's nautical past, view historic vessels, and discover stories of shipwrecks and lifesaving heroes.

So when the weather turns, turn it into an opportunity to explore the hidden, historic, and scenic side of Sleeping Bear Dunes.

You can always follow FOSBD or the Sleeping Bear Dune National Lakeshore facebook pages for up to date activities and offerings.