1. New Buffalo Beach: Things to Do with Kids in New Buffalo

If you’re visiting between late spring and early fall, New Buffalo Beach should be at the top of your list. This wide, sandy beach offers shallow swimming areas near the shore, making it ideal for younger children. Lifeguards are typically on duty during peak season, adding peace of mind for parents.

There’s a grassy park just beyond the sand with shaded picnic tables, perfect for lunch breaks or snack time. Volleyball nets are available, and the adjacent harbor area offers scenic boat-watching opportunities.

• Why kids love it: Running in and out of gentle waves, building sandcastles, and watching sailboats drift by.
• Why parents love it: Easy access from downtown, restrooms on site, and food options nearby.

Pro tip: Bring a wagon to haul beach gear—it’s a short walk from the parking lot to the sand, and wagons make life easier when you have little ones.

Beach day on the agenda? Don’t miss our guide to Top 10 Lake Michigan Beaches.

2. New Buffalo Township Memorial Park Splash Pad: Things to Do with Kids in New Buffalo

Many first-time visitors are surprised to learn that the town’s splash pad isn’t at the beach—it’s at New Buffalo Township Memorial Park, directly across from Galien River County Park. This setup is perfect for families who want to combine a morning of nature exploration with an afternoon of water play.

The splash pad is colorful and interactive, with multiple fountain-style water jets that spray in different patterns. The large, rubber-matted playground features climbing towers, slides, swings, and a separate toddler area. Sports fans can enjoy two basketball courts and two bocce ball courts, while the paved walking trail is ideal for strollers, scooters, or leisurely family strolls.

Parents will appreciate the covered pavilion (available for rentals), picnic tables, and clean restrooms. The park is well-maintained with open grassy areas for frisbee, kite-flying, or casual soccer.

• Why kids love it: So many ways to play—splashing, climbing, swinging, and running.
• Why parents love it: Safe environment, variety of activities, and plenty of seating.

Pro tip: The splash pad operates seasonally, usually from Memorial Day through Labor Day, from around 10 a.m.–8 p.m. Pavilion rentals can be arranged through the park office.

For more outdoor family fun, check out our Kids Favorites category.

3. Galien River County Park with Kids

Right across from the park and splash pad lies Galien River County Park, a nature-lover’s dream and a hit with adventurous kids. The park’s elevated canopy walk gives a bird’s-eye view of the river valley, wetlands, and surrounding forest. The marsh boardwalk brings you right down to water level, where you can spot frogs, turtles, and herons.

• Why kids love it: The thrill of walking high above the trees, spotting animals, and exploring twisting boardwalks.
• Why parents love it: Scenic beauty, educational opportunities, and easy accessibility.

Pro tip: Early mornings are best for wildlife sightings. Bring a camera—this park is a photographer’s dream.

Nature lovers will also enjoy our Copper Top Ridge Wildlife guide.

4. Fernwood Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve (Day Trip Idea)

A 40-minute drive brings you to the enchanting Fernwood Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve. Here, the children’s garden is designed to encourage hands-on exploration, while the twisted vine arches make for whimsical photo ops. The trails wind through forests, meadows, and along the St. Joseph River, providing endless exploration opportunities.

• Why kids love it: Space to roam, seasonal scavenger hunts, and interactive exhibits.
• Why parents love it: Peaceful setting and educational programs.

Pro tip: Don’t miss the Nature Adventure Camp in summer or the Holiday Train Garden in winter.

5. Washington Park Zoo (Nearby): Things to Do with Kids in New Buffalo

Just 20 minutes from New Buffalo, the Washington Park Zoo is home to more than 90 species, from wolves to otters to exotic birds. The zoo’s layout is compact, making it easy to explore in a couple of hours. One highlight is the giraffe feeding station, which kids find unforgettable.

• Why kids love it: Up-close animal encounters and the excitement of feeding giraffes.
• Why parents love it: Manageable size and affordable admission.

Pro tip: Pair your visit with a trip to the adjacent Washington Park Beach for even more family fun.

6. Oink’s Dutch Treat: Kid-Approved Treats

A trip to New Buffalo isn’t complete without a stop at Oink’s Dutch Treat. This pig-themed ice cream parlor offers over 50 flavors and walls covered in vintage pig collectibles.

• Why kids love it: Playful atmosphere and big scoops of ice cream.
• Why parents love it: Affordable indulgence and a dose of nostalgia.

Pro tip: Visit after dinner to make it a nightly vacation tradition.

7. Redamak’s: Family-Friendly Eats

This legendary burger joint has been serving families for generations. Known for its “closed for the season” tradition, Redamak’s is a summer staple for visitors.

• Why kids love it: Casual atmosphere and simple, tasty food.
• Why parents love it: Fast service and a menu that satisfies everyone.

Pro tip: Cash-only policy—come prepared.

8. Hesston Steam Museum: Trains Kids Love

Train lovers will adore the Hesston Steam Museum, where you can ride real steam-powered trains through scenic wooded tracks. Exhibits showcase vintage machinery, and the on-site ice cream shop is the perfect sweet ending.

• Why kids love it: Riding on a real train and watching steam engines in action.
• Why parents love it: Educational displays that blend history and fun.

Pro tip: The Fall Harvest Days festival adds hayrides, cider, and seasonal treats to the mix.

9. Warren Dunes State Park: Sand Dunes & Lake Time

For active families, Warren Dunes State Park is an adventure playground. The towering sand dunes offer challenging climbs and thrilling rolls back down. Afterward, cool off with a swim in Lake Michigan.

• Why kids love it: Climbing, rolling, and splashing.
• Why parents love it: Sweeping lake views and well-equipped picnic areas.

Pro tip: Wear water shoes for comfort—the shoreline can be rocky in spots.

10. Local Festivals & Events for Families

From summer fairs to winter holiday celebrations, New Buffalo’s event calendar is filled with family fun.

• Ship & Shore Festival: Carnival rides, food vendors, and live entertainment.
• Farmers Markets: Fresh produce, baked goods, and kids’ crafts.
• Seasonal Festivals: Pumpkin patches in fall, Christmas parades in winter, and nature walks in spring.

📍 More info: Southwest Michigan Events

Planning Your Day: The Best Things to Do with Kids in New Buffalo

These things to do with kids in New Buffalo are close together, so you can pair the beach with the splash pad and finish with ice cream downtown.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a beach day, nature walk, or classic burger-and-ice-cream combo, you’ll find plenty of things to do with kids in New Buffalo. Keep exploring on our Things to Do page and Kids Favorites, and book Copper Top Ridge for a family-friendly home base.