really cool places to visit in michigan

52 Fun Things To Do & Best Places To Visit In Michigan

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: September 27, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Any intrepid traveler won’t think twice about coming to Michigan, especially if they’re looking to check it off their list of US states to visit.

However, deciding where to go in Michigan is a far trickier question, as there are so many worthwhile attractions here.

These are the 52 fun things to do in Michigan as well as the best places to visit in Michigan.

Table of Contents

1. Michigan Science Center

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Arriving in the wake of the beloved and departed Detroit Science Center, the Michigan Science Center is one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

This museum hosts science attractions regarding fascinating concepts on our planet and beyond.

Going to the Michigan Science Center should be on the bucket list of anyone remotely interested in science.

One of the greatest things to see at the Michigan Science Center is the Dassault Systèmes Planetarium, which showcases the universe in a way that may leave you speechless.

There’s also an IMAX theater and exhibits about things like health and engineering.

These can help your kids get more into science.

Coming to the Michigan Science Center is one of the most fun things to do in Michigan.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission varies based on what sort of experience you wish to enjoy during your visit.

Address:  5020 John R St, Detroit, MI 48202, United States

2. Mackinac Island

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There are many waterside things to do in Michigan, but one of the best places to visit is Mackinac Island .

Positioned by Lake Huron, this is a place for people who just want to get away from the constant hustle and bustle of their everyday life.

At Mackinac Island, you can give your mind some rest and enjoy some great scenery and attractions.

As your ferry approaches the island, you may find yourself realizing it’s one of the most most beautiful places in Michigan.

Once you’re on land, you’ll have the lovely foliage, hiking trails, and horse-led carriages to solidify this feeling.

Coming to Mackinac Island can be a transportive experience.

Mackinac Island is one of the best vacation spots in Michigan.

If this sounds like a place you’d like to see for more than a day, there are lots of lodging options available.

If you’re looking for unique places to visit in Michigan, you should come to Mackinac Island.

3. Ann Arbor

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There are lots of cities to visit in Michigan, but one of the best is Ann Arbor .

There are so many incredible things to see in Ann Arbor, which is teeming with manmade and natural attractions that can’t be resisted.

Some of the most fun places to visit in Michigan are in Ann Arbor.

For starters, a trip to Ann Arbor should include coming to the University of Michigan, especially if you’re assisting your child in their college quest.

There’s also the beauty of the Matthaei Botanical Gardens.

Should you want to do some learning, you can come to the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum or the University of Michigan Museum of Art.

You can also cherish the loveliness of places like Gallup Park.

Ann Arbor is big enough to be exciting but small enough to not feel overwhelming.

If you’re looking for tourist places in Michigan that go overlooked, come to Ann Arbor.

It’s one of the best places to visit in the state.

4. Boyne Mountain Resort

Boyne Mountain Resort

If you’ve been looking to go on a ski trip for some time, one of the best places to visit is Boyne Mountain Resort in Michigan.

This is one of the most cool places in Michigan, and that’s not just referring to the temperature as you cruise down the slopes.

Even if skiing isn’t your cup of tea, Boyne Mountain Resort still gives you plenty to do.

There’s golfing, ziplining, and a massive waterpark, located inside.

The lodging rooms alone make it one of the best places to vacation in Michigan.

You can feel like a champion when you come to Boyne Mountain Resort.

Many of the most fun things you can do in Michigan occur here.

At Boyne Mountain Resort, you’ll be at one of the loveliest vacation destinations in Michigan, and all of the activities make your enjoyment grow further.

Address:  1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713, United States

5. Isle Royale National Park

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If you need any further evidence that Michigan is one of the most beautiful states , come to Isle Royale National Park .

This is a location that exemplifies how gorgeous this region it is.

Through millions of years of natural development, Isle Royale National Park has become an amazing site that shows how precious this planet is.

Bordered by Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park really does reign supreme when it comes to places to visit in Michigan.

There are opportunities on the land, such as hiking and camping, as well as ones on the water, such as fishing, scuba diving, and going on boating excursions.

At Isle Royale National Park, you can see one of the best tourist attractions in Michigan.

To pay the proper respect to this site, don’t do anything that would disturb the region and the wildlife that populates it.

Having points of interest like this is a privilege that shouldn’t be taken for granted.

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Knowing that there’s a Holland , Michigan might give you some images of The Netherlands, and you actually wouldn’t be that far off.

This city was founded by Dutch settlers.

Although it’s not one of the bigger places in Michigan, it still has a lot of appeal and excellent sightseeing opportunities.

Rich cultural experiences can be had by going to the Kruizenga Art Museum or attending a performance from the Holland Symphony Orchestra.

A great day at the beach can be had in Holland, and there are many to choose from.

You can also enjoy wonderful water activities out on Lake Michigan.

Going to Holland, Michigan shows how important the cultural influence of various settlers has been on America’s development.

This city is one of the best places to visit in Michigan if you want to see some unsung places.

If you’re interested in religion, you should know that Holland has plenty of churches.

7. The Detroit Institute of Arts

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One of the best things to do in Michigan is to go to the Detroit Institute of Arts .

It could easily rank among the top 10 art museums in the United States.

At this Michigan museum, you can explore thousands of phenomenal works that span the globe in origin.

Part of Detroit’s Cultural Center Historic District, the Institute of Arts has some of the most must-see works in all of Michigan.

In the collection, there are pieces from the Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia , and Oceania.

You can feel near all kinds of incredible eras when you’re at the Detroit Institute of Arts.

Going to the Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the most fun things to do in Michigan.

It’s open from Tuesday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is free for people who live in Wayne, Oakland, or Macomb county, museum members, and children five and younger.

Otherwise, it’s $14 for adults, $9 for seniors, $8 for college students, and $6 for youths.

Address:  5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202, United States

Planning a trip to Detroit soon? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Detroit !

8. Michigan History Center

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Even before it was known as “Michigan,” this land had all sorts of development to go through.

The Michigan of early human civilization and before might look unrecognizable compared to what it is now, but that doesn’t make it any less worth learning about.

At the Michigan History Center , you can have a transfixing educational experience.

This institution is in the capital city of Lansing, Michigan.

It’s one of the greatest places to come to for finding out about the state’s history, with exhibits that give you an amazing crash course of Michigan and its story.

It’s one of the coolest sites to go to if you want to really feel invested in your surroundings.

The Michigan History Center is one of the most important Michigan travel destinations for getting a glimpse at how the state came to be.

It’s open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.

Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for youths, and free for children five and younger.

Address:  702 W Kalamazoo St, Lansing, MI 48915, United States

9. Traverse City

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Travel to Traverse City and see one of the prettiest places in Michigan.

Its placement right at Traverse Bay’s southern section gives you access to lots of beaches and beauty.

If you’re looking for scenic tourist spots in Michigan, you need to come here.

Besides beaches, Traverse City also offers places to go for hikes.

You can also enjoy delicious food at some of the best restaurants in Michigan.

Places like the Interlochen Center for the Arts make this another jewel in the cultural crown that is Michigan.

Going to Traverse City should be on your Michigan bucket list.

It’s great to come to for a weekend or longer.

If you’re drawn to beautiful places with lots of activities, you should come to Traverse City, Michigan.

10. Detroit Zoo

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If there’s a place that just about everyone can enjoy going to, it’s the zoo.

Between the fresh air, the education, and the amazing exhibits, the zoo has everything you’d want from tourist attractions.

The Detroit Zoo is one of the top 10 zoos in the country.

When you come to this great Michigan zoo, you’ can see species from across the animal kingdom, such as gorillas, camels, and bald eagles.

The conservation of the zoo helps to keep these animals in great condition.

Their habitats wonderfully recreate what they would have in their native environments.

The Detroit Zoo is one of the most beloved Michigan attractions.

It’s open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission at the park is $18 for adults, age 19 to 64, and $15 for children, age two to 18, seniors, and military personnel.

Address:  8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067, United States

11. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

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Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore definitely gives you gorgeous mineral-rich cliffs to check out.

Should you have an interest in geology, you’ll love seeing how things like iron, manganese, and copper add color and life to the environment, even if it’s through inanimate objects.

The entire expanse of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is great to explore.

Residing by Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore gives you places to go hiking and camping.

It’s also great to come to at different times of the year.

In the spring and summer, you can take out a canoe or go fishing.

When the temperatures drop, you can go cross-country, skiing, ice-climbing, or snowshoeing.

At Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the beauty of Michigan can really be understood.

Coming here is one of the best things to do in Michigan.

It looks very distinct and you can have a lot of excitement deciding what to do with your time.

12. Lansing

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It can be a bit easy to forget that Lansing is the capital of Michigan, especially since it doesn’t seem to come up as much as cities like Detroit or Kalamazoo.

However, Lansing more than deserves to be the Michigan seat of government.

You can find lots of awesome places to see and things to do in Lansing.

If you have a bucket list of state capitols you want to visit, check out the one in Lansing, which was modeled based on the American Capitol Building.

You can also enjoy great art and science museums and breweries.

If you want to experience the outdoors in Lansing, Michigan, you should check out their wonderful gardens, especially the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden.

Lansing is one of the most fun places to stay in Michigan.

If you’re looking for things to do that keep your mind active, you should come to the Michigan capital.

The fun you have in Lansing, Michigan will be the kind you tell people about for a very long time.

13. Fort Mackinac

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There are lots of cool things to do on Mackinac Island, but one of the best is checking out Fort Mackinac .

This site has a complex military history. It was first constructed during the Revolutionary War by the British.

However, it eventually came under the use of the U.S. Army.

While Fort Mackinac is no longer in use as a means of defense, it’s still one of the best Michigan attractions.

Today, it functions as one of the top museums in the state.

You can explore the 14 units that comprised the fort and get down to the nitty-gritty of what it was like fighting for this country.

Fort Mackinac is what to see in Michigan if you value places of historic interest.

It’s open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m from September 2 to October 6, and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. from October 7 to October 27.

Admission on-site is $13.50 for adults and $7.75 for children, age five to 12.

Address:  7127 Huron Rd, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, United States

14. The Fisher Building

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Some of the most beautiful architecture in Michigan can be found in Detroit.

Case in point, the Fisher Building .

This building has been adored since its founding. Inside are lots of fun places to check out.

The work of architect Albert Kahn, The Fisher Building is one of the most amazing skyscrapers in Michigan.

You can tour the building to learn more about it and its history.

You can also check out a show at the Fisher Theatre.

Going on a tour of the Fisher Building is one of the best free things to do in Michigan.

You can make it as high as the 22nd floor, which gives you a very unique view of Detroit.

To help guarantee your tour occurs, you need to schedule it in advance.

Address:  3011 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48202, United States

15. Tecumseh

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Even the smaller towns of Michigan are worth checking out.

One of the best examples of this is Tecumseh .

This is one of the first areas settled in what would become Michigan.

Tecumseh is near Ann Arbor, so you can get a good taste of Michigan city life before or after you check out this more intimate area.

Despite its smaller size, Tecumseh, Michigan has lots of site seeing and other activities.

You can see things like Art Trail Tecumseh, which features lots of great sculptures.

There’s also a wonderful harvest festival.

Tecumseh is one of the best places to go to in Michigan.

It’s quite beautiful and has lots of sites to see.

Come over to Tecumseh and you’ll get to have a great time in Michigan.

16. Belle Isle Park

Since it’s founding in 1845, Belle Isle Park has been among the top places to go in Michigan.

Going to this Detroit park lets visitors unwind and embrace the environment.

Coming here is one of the best free things to do in Michigan.

Belle Isle Park’s total area is close to 1,000 acres.

It’s also close to where the American and Canadian borders meet.

Beyond this geographical fun fact, Belle Isle Park is also full of fine attractions, including an aquarium and a conservatory.

If you want to see one of the best places for recreation in the country, you need to come to Belle Isle Park.

It gives you another perspective of the great city of Detroit.

Belle Isle Park is open every day from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address: 99 Pleasure Dr, Detroit, MI 48207, USA

17. University of Michigan

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You might be going to Ann Arbor for a summer vacation, but you can still do some thinking about school.

The University of Michigan is one of the best higher education institutions in the midwest.

The architecture and legacy of this university make it one of the most recommended sites for anyone visiting Michigan.

Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan is the oldest of its kind in Michigan.

It doesn’t just coast by on reputation, as it continues to rank as one of the best colleges in the nation.

There are also great programs at the Rackham Graduate School.

Checking out the University of Michigan could be one of the top things to do in Michigan.

Even if you don’t have any immediate plans to go to college or are already enrolled at another one, it can still be great to see such a historic area.

Famous places like the University of Michigan should certainly be on your itinerary.

Address: 915 E Washington St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA

18. Grand Rapids

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When “ Grand Rapids ” was named, they must’ve had some pretty big ideals for it.

This Michigan city could also be called “Great Rapids,” as it has a great culture for living and visiting.

This is one of the best cities to visit in Michigan if you’re coming with a group.

Learning is a great thing to do in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

You can see museums like the Grand Rapid Art Museum and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, as this is where the 38th President spent his formative years.

If you want to get your pulse going, you should go ziplining.

Other fantastic outdoor attractions in Grand Rapids are the Grand River Heritage Trail and TreeRunner Grand Rapids Adventure Park.

If you’re trying to figure out where to visit in Michigan, you should consider Grand Rapids.

There are lots of beautiful places and thrilling activities to enjoy.

19. Frankenmuth

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One of the best places to experience German heritage in the country is Frankenmuth , Michigan.

This town is the definition of charming, with appeal coming from its great architecture and great attractions.

If you want to have fun in Michigan, you should come to Frankenmuth.

The buildings in Frankenmuth continue to honor their Bavarian origins.

You can see awesome sites like Frankenmuth Aerial Park, the Frankenmuth Historical Museum, and the Lager Mill Beer Store & Brewing Museum.

There’s also the amazing Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the largest Christmas-focused store on the planet.

Frankenmuth, Michigan is one of the best towns to visit for hospitality and sightseeing.

When you’re looking for places to see in Michigan that will give you a strong sense of wonder, you should come here.

You can be near some of the top Michigan attractions when you’re in Frankenmuth.

20. Mackinac Bridge

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The Mackinac Bridge is one of the most awesome engineering achievements in all of Michigan.

It’s what links Mackinaw City’s Lower Peninsula to St. Ignace’s Upper Peninsula.

Known colloquially as “Mighty Mac,” the Mackinac Bridge is greatly important to the history of Michigan.

This bridge helped to solve a major transportation issue in Michigan.

Previously, anyone hoping to cross from one peninsula to another had to get their car on a ferry.

Today, the Mackinac Bridge is a mighty and gorgeous structure for motorists to embrace.

Lots more can be learned about the Mackinac Bridge by checking out the Mackinac Bridge Museum.

It’s housed atop MaMa Mia’s Restaurant and includes photos and items of interest from the bridge’s construction.

What’s even better is that admission is free.

21. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

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More beautiful nature can be seen in Michigan at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .

This is one of the most exciting places to go in Michigan if you love outdoor activities.

There’s also the layout of the land, which makes it even-more must see.

A national park, Sleep Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the top vacation spots in Michigan.

You can spend a week or a weekend camping and fall in love with the region and all the activities there are, including fishing, hiking, or just dipping your feet in Lake Michigan.

Time spent at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore can be one of the top parts of your experience in Michigan.

It’s one of the most comforting places to go in Michigan.

When you want to get away from modern stressors, come to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Address: 9922 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630, USA

22. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

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If the name Frederik Meijer sounds familiar, it’s because he was the CEO of Meijer, a chain of retail stores located throughout the midwest, with many of their stores being in Michigan.

His legacy can be even more appreciated by going to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

You can have lots of fun being near all these great installations.

There are plants to be seen both inside and outside at this park, which is one of the most popular in the country.

You can also see very well-crafted sculptures.

There are also outdoor concerts, which helps to make even better usage of the nearly-160 acre park.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is one of the best Michigan attractions for how it lets us remember a great man and appreciate the wonderful things he left for us.

This park is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $14.50 for adults, $11 for seniors and students, $7 for children, age five to 13, and $4 for children ages three and four.

Children two and under get in for free.

Address:  1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, United States

23. Colonial Michilimackinac

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Aside from being a great tongue-twister to try and master, Colonial Michilimackinac is also a must see attraction for history buffs.

Although the original Fort Michilimackinac was torched in 1763, its legacy has been preserved by Colonial Michilimackinac.

When you visit this site, you can see what it was like around the time of the American Revolution.

Built by the French, Michilimackinac was meant for fur trading purposes.

However, it ended up being used for military purposes, such as in Pontiac’s War.

There are 16 different recreated buildings at Colonial Michilimackinac.

While the original Michilimackinac may be gone, this site is still one of the most awesome places to visit in Michigan.

Colonial Michilimackinac’s hours vary based on time of year.

Admission on-site is $12.50 for adults and $7.25 for children, age five to 12.

Address:  102 W Straits Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49770, United States

24. Kalamazoo

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Many of the most engrossing Michigan attractions is the entire city of Kalamazoo .

This city was first settled in 1829.

Over the years, it has been a base for a variety of industries, including paper, celery, and guitars.

Today, Kalamazoo is one of the coolest vacation spots in Michigan.

Family fun can be had in great amounts in Kalamazoo.

There are unique attractions like the Air Zoo and the Midwest Miniatures Museum.

There’s also one of the top zoos in the state, the Binder Park Zoo.

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is great to go to if you’re interested in learning about history and science.

When you’re in Kalamazoo, you can find fun all around you.

This is a city that gives you meaningful memories through enlightening activities.

If you’re looking for great stuff to do in Michigan, you should definitely come to Kalamazoo.

Planning to visit Kalamazoo soon? Be sure to check out our list of the fun things to do in Kalamazoo .

25. The Henry Ford Museum

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The Henry Ford Museum isn’t just a Michigan museum about automobile giant Henry Ford.

It’s also an ode to one of the most ambitious minds the world has ever known.

At this Dearborn, Michigan museum, you can see how amazing Ford and his story were.

Every year, more than one million visitors come to The Henry Ford Museum.

While plenty of the attractions are about Ford, there are also amazing items affiliated with other historic greats, such as the bus Rosie Parks was on when she was arrested.

The entire museum is massive, with outdoor and indoor exhibitions.

Going to The Henry Ford Museum is among the top activities you can do in Michigan.

It’s open on Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

General admission is $24, and it’s $22 for seniors, and $18 for youths, age five to 11.

Address:  20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124, United States

26. The Outdoor Discovery Centre

Outdoor Discovery Center

The different ecosystems are crucial in making learning about Earth so rewarding.

At the Outdoor Discovery Centre in Holland, Michigan, you can appreciate the diversity of six unique types of ecosystems.

What started as farmland has become one of the most educational tourist attractions in Michigan.

Ecosystems that are represented at the Outdoor Discovery Centre include forest, marshes, and meadows.

You can also enjoy several miles of walking trails.

Today, the Outdoor Discovery Centre also has a substantial number of taxidermied animals to see.

You can also have a lot of fun at the De Witt Birds of Prey Center.

The Outdoor Discovery Centre is one of the top Michigan destinations if you love to see nature in as many forms as possible.

It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission to the Visitors Center and the trails is free for all.

Address:  4214 56th St, Holland, MI 49423, United States

27. Sugarloaf Mountain

One of the sweetest places to see in Michigan is Sugarloaf Mountain.

Reaching the summit is a very satisfying activity, as it involves a fairly intense but also fairly short hike.

Once you’ve made it to the summit, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most gorgeous views in the entire state.

The main challenge of the hike is the steep incline.

However, it’s been well prepared for hikers. There are even some stairs you can take.

As long as you have the proper equipment, such as sturdy shoes and plenty of water, you can have a good hiking experience.

As you stand on Sugarloaf Mountain, you can see the immense glory of Patridge Bay at Lake Superior.

You can also feel proud of yourself for how much ambition and effort you have.

Climbing Sugarloaf Mountain can make you feel near the heavens in terms of power.

Address: County Road 550, Marquette, MI, USA

28. Great Lakes Bay Region

Craig Sterken / Shutterstock (Bay City)

The Great Lakes Bay Region is one of the most distinct places to see in Michigan.

This region is made up of different cities around the Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron.

They all have their own personality and fun attractions.

The aforementioned Frankenmuth is part of the Great Lakes Bay Region.

There’s also Saginaw, which holds the Japanese Cultural Center and Tea House.

Some great Michigan destinations can be found in places like Bay City and Birch Run.

This is one of the most beautiful parts of the state.

Coming to the Great Lakes Bay Region shows just how varied this area is.

When you’re figuring out how to plan a trip to Michigan, you can’t forget about the Great Lakes Bay Region.

29. Windmill Island Gardens

Among the many great attractions in Holland is Windmill Island Gardens .

The Dutch influence of the area is perhaps most apparent here.

There are three dozen acres to roam around when you’re here, one of the finest Michigan destinations.

The namesake windmill is DeZwaan, which goes back to the 1700s.

The windmill, imported from The Netherlands, is still in use today, the only of its kind that still runs.

The gardens themselves rank among the loveliest Michigan attractions.

This weekend could be the perfect time to come down for a visit.

Windmill Island Gardens is one of the most blissful tourist attractions you can see in or near Michigan.

When in operation, from the middle of April to the middle of October, it’s open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

This can also be one of the most beautiful places to host a wedding or other important events.

Address: 1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI 49423, USA

30. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

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You might never have a drive that’s as spectacular as the one you get at Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive .

This is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

The wonders of this drive help even more to make Sleeping Bear one of the top vacation spots in the state.

For seven miles, you’ll be driving in a loop and experiencing scenery that rivals the greatest tourist attractions of many states.

The views you’ll get of Lake Michigan are the kind that would be posted on a postcard.

As you drive uphill and through dunes and forests, you can be filled with anticipation and stunned by how beautiful everything is.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive might’ve started out as a relatively well-kept secret, but it’s since become one of the top tourist attractions in the area.

Going for a drive in nature can help to clear your mind, but Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive takes that relaxation to a whole new level.

For a fun but also spellbinding car trip, you should come to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.

31. Hiawatha National Forest

If you’re looking for what to do in Michigan, you should come to the state’s Upper Peninsula area.

Specifically, you should check out Hiawatha National Forest .

Coming to this forest is one of the best ways to spend your weekend.

You’ll get views of three of the Great Lakes: Huron, Michigan, and Superior.

The entire forest is close to one million acres, so even if you spend all of this weekend or even a full week at Hiawatha National Forest, you’d be lucky to see even one percent of its total area.

However, it’s such a beautiful place that, during your visit, you can focus on what’s around you.

Some of the activities you can do at Hiawatha National Forest include horseback riding, hiking, swimming, and boating.

There are also cabins available for rent and many campgrounds.

If you’re wanting rustic places to vacation, check out Hiawatha National Forest.

Address:  Manistique, MI 49854, United States

32. Soo Locks Boat Tours

Soo Locks Boat Tours definitely aren’t a so-so experience.

When you want to bond with your family and gain some cool knowledge, book a ride on one of these tours.

You can see some awesome points of interest and enjoy the beauty of the region.

Soo is the name of a city that is claimed both by America and its northern friend, Canada.

The “Locks” part of the name refers to the engineering achievement on the St. Marys River that allows for boats to reach other Great Lakes from Lake Superior.

These tours are one of the most fun things to do in Michigan, as you get a very comprehensive understanding of the Locks and see things like the remarkable rapids.

If you’re coming to Michigan this weekend, you should think about going on a Soo Locks Boat Tour.

There are different experiences you can choose from, including sightseeing tours and lunch and dinner cruises.

Be sure to check the calendar and book your trip as early as you can.

Address:  515 & 1157, E Portage Ave, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783, United States

33. Manistee

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Michigan is one of the best places to vacation if you want to see Great Lakes.

Manistee can be counted among the most beautiful points of interest in the whole state.

Should you be looking for priceless aquatic experiences, you must come to Manistee.

With much of it bordered by Lake Michigan, the city of Manistee is magnificent.

If you love boating, figuring out what to do is easy.

The Manistee Municipal Marina is the perfect place for those who love being out on the water.

On the land, you can take part in activities like touring the Historic Downtown area.

One of the best vacation places in the state, Manistee adds further to Michigan’s charm.

You can get a lot of mileage out of a weekend in Manistee.

Rent a boat and yourself feel so wonderful and free.

34. Holland State Park

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A weekend trip to Holland needs to include going to Holland State Park .

If you’re curious about what to do that lets you take full advantage of the beauty of the area, you’ll swiftly have an answer when you come here.

This is also another place to get an indelible view of Michigan’s eponymous Great Lake.

Thanks to its lakeside access, Holland State Park is another great place for fun in the water.

It’s also near enough to the beloved Big Red Lighthouse to give you a great glimpse of it.

If you have any free time in Holland, Holland State Park will help you spend it very well.

Going to Holland State Park is one of the top cheap things to do in Michigan.

There are also two places to go camping.

Visitors can come to the park every day from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424, United States

35. Ford Rouge Factory Tour

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Detroit wouldn’t be known as “Motown” if it wasn’t for how important automobiles manufacturers were to it.

Going on the Ford Rouge Factory Tour is what to do if you’re someone who gets a lot of mileage out of learning about cars.

This can also be fun for those who think they don’t have much interest in cars.

Set on the Rouge River, this factory was the work of Henry Ford himself.

It’s awesome to come on a tour and see a beautiful Ford in process on the assembly line.

You can also see movies that provide further historical context about the factory.

The Ford Rouge Factory is one of the top places to go if you’re looking for cheap but also mentally nurturing things to do.

It’s open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $18, $16.25 for seniors, age 62 and up, and $13.50 for youths, age five to 11.

36. Petoskey Area

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Coming to Michigan’s Petoskey Area is what to do if you need to clear up some free space in your head.

No matter what your favorite time of year is, the Petoskey Area will let you enjoy it in full clarity.

It rivals some of the prettiest places near Michigan.

Compromised of wonderful communities like Petoskey, Alanson, and Bay Harbor, the Petoskey Area is made for fun and love.

You can go golfing, hiking, skiing, check out museums, enjoy an indoor waterpark and so much more.

You should start planning your trip to the Petoskey Area today.

The Petoskey Area is what to see if you love just how fantastic nature and recreation can be.

Many fun free things can be done here, such as going to the beach and watching a sunset you might’ve only previously seen in dreams.

Today, The Petosky Area is continuous proof of how great this state is.

37. Keweenaw Peninsula

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Famed for its abundant copper deposits, the Keweenaw Peninsula is one of Michigan’s most notable natural attractions.

However, the region today has a lot going on besides mining.

This is the perfect place to come for outdoor fun as well as doing some learning.

The Keweenaw Peninsula is part of the Upper Peninsula.

You can have a lot of fun taking out a boat on an inland lake such as Lac La Belle and Lake Fanny Hooe.

When winter rolls around, you don’t have to mourn the lower temperatures, because there are things like watching dog sled races and going snowmobiling.

Plus, the Keweenaw Peninsula includes lots of cool ghost towns and museums to tour, such as the Carnegie Museum of the Keweenaw and the Copper Range Historical Museum.

Cheap admission of a one-dollar donation for adults and free admission for children younger than 12, members, and people traveling in groups.

Not only is The Keweenaw Peninsula a fun place to visit, but it’s also very meaningful for showing just how much this state values its land.

This is what to see if you want to be near people and nature at their loveliest.

Your experience at the Keweenaw Peninsula will hopefully have you dying to come back.

Address: Near Houghton, MI 49931, USA

38. Detroit Eastern Market

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Farming is integral to the midwest and its economy.

If you’re in or near Detroit, you should make plans to see the Detroit Eastern Market .

It’s been one of the most cherished parts of Detroit for more than a century.

Operating throughout the year, the Detroit Eastern Market gives you access to fresh and fantastic food items.

The vendors are a diverse bunch, as are their items.

There’s also plenty of free parking at the market.

The Detroit Eastern Market is excellent if you’re looking for cheap but fulfilling activities.

You’ll see why this has been so lauded by people in the area and beyond.

It’s open all year on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and from June to September on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Address: 2934 Russell St, Detroit, MI 48207, USA

39. Escanaba

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If you’re near the Upper Peninsula and have some free time, you should come to Escanaba .

This port city is a major example of Michigan’s scenic wonder.

The air in Escanaba feels so fresh, you might want to take some home with you.

You can get a lot of use out of the waters at Escanaba by doing things like fishing, scuba diving, and going shipwreck hunting.

Drier things you can do include biking, going on a hike, and, when the temperatures drop, cross-country skiing.

“Escanaba” and “escape” share the first four letters, and an escape is exactly what you get when you come here.

You can do things that are fun but also fairly cheap in Escanaba.

You might feel the urge to get the word out so others know to come to this spot.

40. Port Austin Kayak

There’s been so much talk about the amazing outdoor activities in Michigan, but how about where you should go for getting the equipment you need?

If you’re in the Upper Thumb area, you need to come to Port Austin Kayak .

This rental company gives you great options as well as great customer service.

Along with kayaks, you can also rent bicycles and stand-up paddleboards from this company.

Whether you need something for a few hours or a few days, Port Austin Kayak and Bike will get you set up.

There’s also a place to eat and grab a beer.

Renting outdoor equipment might seem like something that’s pretty straightforward and not exactly worth savoring.

However, when you come to Port Austin Kayak, you’ll likely be deeply impressed by the selection and prices.

You can trust equipment from Port Austin Kayak.

Address:  119 E Spring St, Port Austin, MI 48467, United States

41. Motown Museum

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Although Detroit’s “Motown” identity originates from the automobile industry, it’s just as if not more associated with the city’s music scene.

The Motown Museum is where famed record executive Berry Gordy’s Motown Records was once housed.

Now, it’s a great place to come to for learning all about the city and state’s incredible musical heritage.

Some of the artists spotlighted at the Motown Museum include The Supremes, The Four Tops, The Temptations, and Marvin Gaye.

Their songs and stories have endured and coming to the Motown Museum help to illustrate why.

You can also get a great photo posing in front of the “I Am Motown” sign.

If you love music, you need to go to the Motown Museum.

It’s a great place to further your musical history knowledge.

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, age 62 and up, and $10 for youths, age five to 17.

Address:  2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208, United States

42. St. Ignace

The Upper Peninsula keeps providing, as you’ll see when you come to St. Ignace .

This town, residing beside Lake Huron, is welcoming and lovely.

Water enthusiasts can have an especially fun time.

Great Lakes Boat Tours let you explore different islands in the region and really gain an appreciation for its natural design.

You can also go on a two-hour glass bottom boat shipwreck tour.

If you want to get some serious lift and scream in delight, try going parasailing.

St. Ignace is rightfully venerated as one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Besides the water activities, you can check out attractions like the Haunted Theatre and Oswald’s Bear Ranch.

This is a small town that has a huge value.

43. Michigan’s Adventure

Jeremy Thompson / flickr

Amusement parks are always fun, but Michigan’s Adventure takes it to a new level.

There’s no amusement park in the state that beats this one, in terms of size and fun.

Whatever you want out of an amusement park, Michigan’s Adventure can provide it for you.

Love roller coasters? There are seven incredible ones to check out.

Are you more into waterparks? WildWater Adventure Park is on-site and is a blast.

Do you prefer milder attractions like Ferris wheels? You’re in luck.

Going to Michigan’s Adventure can be a thrill-seeker’s dream come true.

The park is open on a seasonal basis. A single-day ticket costs $33.

Address:  4750 Whitehall Rd, Muskegon, MI 49445, United States

44. Palmer Woods

Girl.in.the.D / flickr

A lot can be gleaned about Detroit’s history by visiting Palmer Woods .

This is an area that includes hundreds of architecturally ingenious homes, built in the wake of the success of the automobile business in its early days.

Palmer Woods should be on your to-do list if you want to gain more knowledge about Detroit.

Aside from the houses, there are also lots of cool events at Palmer Woods.

Many of these honor the musical legacy of the city.

The two-day 2019 Home & Garden Tour was also a bit hit, showing visitors all around the great historic district.

Palmer Woods is uniquely Detroit but also its own thing.

When you come here, you may be stunned by how well the designs hold up and how much personality they possess.

The homes of Palmer Woods are true gems of Motown.

45. Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary

Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary

If you’ve never thought that plants could be endangered, consider that one of Michigan’s final supplies of old-growth white pine trees is at the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary .

Located in Copper Harbor in Keweenaw County, the Estivant Pines Natural Sanctuary is more than 500 acres of beauty through preservation.

You can see how much nature means to the state when you come here.

The preservation of trees is important no matter what, and the ones that make up this sanctuary are particularly striking.

With heights of 125 feet, even a professional basketball player will feel seriously dwarfed.

There’s also dozens of birds and different sorts of animals to spot.

Nature enthusiasts looking for cheap things to do should come to Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary.

It’s an amazing place to explore and notice all the unique attributes.

The world deserves your appreciation, and Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary lets you show it.

Address:  Burma Rd, Copper Harbor, MI 49918, United States

46. Mount Bohemia

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Although Mount Bohemia is very close to Lake Superior, you might not be packing your snowshoes, not your swimsuit when you come here.

In the winter, this is one of the finest ski resorts in Michigan.

If you know your way around the slopes, Mount Bohemia will be a challenge you should be thrilled to take on.

If you come in the warmer months, you can do things like kayaking and hiking.

You can also look into lodging options to really help your love for the area grow.

There are cabins, yurts, and a hostel to stay at.

Mount Bohemia is great for those who love the outdoors and those who want to gain a greater bond with them.

You’ll hopefully form great memories of going down the mountain on skis or a snowboard or hiking through the area.

Mount Bohemia lets you taste the excitement of Michigan in numerous ways.

Address:  6532 Gay Lac La Belle Rd, Mohawk, MI 49950, United States

47. Greektown

One of the nicest communities in Michigan is Greektown .

Located in Detroit, this district may have gotten its name from the Greek populace that settled there in the early 1900s, but it’s great for anyone who wants to have fun.

“Entertainment” and “Greektown” are practically synonymous with each other.

If you’re feeling lucky, Greektown is the place to be. It’s full of awesome casinos.

There are also plenty of great places to get food.

It definitely won’t be “all Greek to you” when you thin about why Greektown is such a well-regarded part of Michigan.

Address: Monroe Street, Detroit, MI, USA

48. Thorne Swift Nature Preserve

Thorne Swift Nature Preserve

When you come home from your trip, you should be telling people about how much nature means to the state.

Thorne Swift Nature Preserve sits beside Lake Michigan and gives creatures and plants a wonderful home.

It also gives people a wonderful place to visit.

The composition of Thorne Swift Nature Preserve is one of the coolest parts.

Dunes are in the upper regions and swampland in the lower ones.

There are also terrific observation platforms as well as an amphitheater and gazebo.

Your time at the Thorne Swift Nature Preserve is great for letting go of stress and enjoying the moment.

It’s open from 10 a.m. to 30-minutes post-sunset every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Parking costs $5.

Address:  6696 Lower Shore Dr, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, United States

49. Silver Lake State Park

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If you want to really see how gorgeous Lake Michigan is, the place to be is Silver Lake State Park .

Comprised of close to several thousand acres, Silver Lake State Park deserves a gold star.

Whether you want to go camping or just spent a day here, this park will impress you.

You can take a boat out on the lake, go hunting, or take a hike.

The land is just as fantastic as the water, with 2,000-plus acres of sand dunes.

There’s also a portion specifically for driving off-road vehicles.

Fun with your family and other loved ones can really be had when you’re at Silver Lake State Park.

You can get out of your element and feel all the more confident for it.

Additionally, you can enjoy dazzling views of the region.

Address:  9679 W State Park Rd, Mears, MI 49436, United States

50. American Coney Island

Ken Lund / flickr

Hot dogs are such an American tradition, and American Coney Island shows why that tradition exists.

This restaurant is a Detroit institution.

If you want to have a transcendent hot dog eating experience, come to American Coney Island.

Family-run for more than 100 years, American Coney Island takes a familiar treat and makes it even better.

Their signature hot dog is packed with flavor and care, especially when you taste things like their famous Coney Island Chili Sauce.

Beyond hot dogs, American Coney Island’s menu includes things like gyros, chicken salad sandwiches, and spinach pie.

You’ll want to have your appetite ready when you come to American Coney Island.

However, the food looks and smells so amazing that you might find our appetite getting worked up pretty quickly.

American Coney Island is open 24/7.

Address:  114 W Lafayette Blvd, Detroit, MI 48226, United States

51. Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge

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You could fill much of your summer looking at different natural areas of interest in this state.

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge is definitely one of the grandest.

If you’re a bird enthusiast, this may be the highpoint of your trip.

There are close to 300 birds at the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge.

Ones you might spot include swans, loons, ducks, falcons, eagles, and grebes.

Quite a few of these species are endangered.

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge emphasizes just how beautiful birds are and how important their continued survival is.

Besides bird-watching, you can also do things like hiking, skiing, and fishing.

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge is open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Address:  6975 Mower Rd, Saginaw, MI 48601, United States

52. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

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Michigan’s biggest state park, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a testament to everything that is great about this state.

More than 60,000 acres of unspoiled beauty can be seen here.

When you come to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, you can focus on the wonders of the world and how you’re able to appreciate them.

There are some 90 miles of land available for hiking at the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

There are also places to go skiing and play disc golf.

You should also make sure to get a glimpse of Lake of the Clouds.

Nicknamed “The Porkies,” the Porcupine Mountains deserve respect from everyone who visits them.

Upon your arrival, you should be touched by how glorious it is and be thrilled by all there is to do.

With Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, there’s no question that this is one of the most gorgeous states in the country.

Start Planning Your Trip To Michigan

Going to Michigan should appeal to you immensely if you love things like nature and culture.

You might not be able to see everything you want to in one trip, but that gives you the perfect excuse to come back.

You might even look into setting up residence here.

It’s the kind of state that sticks with you and reminds you of how special America really is.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Michigan (MI) » 25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Michigan

25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Michigan

My list of the most beautiful places in the Great Lake State is loaded with spots that have been shaped by Lake Superior or Lake Michigan.

On the Lower Peninsula, the shore of Lake Michigan is trimmed with lofty dunes, generous sandy beaches, quaint lighthouses, and tourist-friendly coastal towns

To the north there’s enough raw, unfettered wilderness in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for volumes of articles, celebrating its old-growth forest, remote peninsulas, waterfalls, mountain ridges, and crystalline springs.

Here, I’ll always be thrilled by the places where industrial power collides with imperious nature, at the epic Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, or far-flung corners mined for copper or iron ore.

1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Topping my list is more than 40 miles of hilly shoreline on Lake Superior where the wind and water have sculpted dreamlike formations from the sandstone.

This striated rock, in a spectrum of tones, has been molded into caves, natural arches, overhangs and turrets.

You can appreciate this scenery from the water on a paddling trip or commercial boat tour, while there’s a world of awesome sights to discover on land along more than 100 miles of trails.

You can track down hidden lakes, waterfalls, and remote beaches. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a four-season wonderland, with frozen waterfalls in winter, wildflowers in spring, water activities in summer, and exquisite foliage in fall to match the colors of the sandstone.

2. Mackinac Island

Between the Upper and Lower Peninsula there’s Mackinac Island, a vacation paradise full of history, natural wonders, and a character all of its own.

One of my favorite things about this place is that motorized vehicles were banned in 1898, and remain outlawed to this day. To get around, you can rent a bicycle, take a horse-drawn carriage, or simply walk, as nowhere is too far away.

There’s so much to see, from the Victorian architecture around the harbor to the wonderfully preserved Fort Mackinac (1782), built by the British during the Revolutionary War.

One of many places to pause for a photo is Arch Rock, a natural bridge 146 feet above the east coast, and one of several striking limestone formations on the island.

If you’re here to splurge, then the logical place to stay is the Grand Hotel (1887), with the longest porch in the world (660 feet) and a list of former guests that includes five US Presidents, Mark Twain and Thomas Edison.

3. Traverse City

At the head of the two long arms of Grand Traverse Bay, this upscale and progressive coastal city brings a lot to the table.

For scenic beauty, you can head along the finger-like Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas, laden with more than 40 vineyards, where the winters are tempered by moderate breezes off Lake Michigan.

At the southern limits of Grand Traverse Bay are lakefront parks with sandy beaches,with plush resort hotels.at regular intervals.

There’s adventure to the west in the mountainous sands of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, while you can also retreat to Traverse City’s lovable downtown, with its 19th-century architecture, tree-shaded sidewalks and a food scene to be reckoned with.

Along with wine grapes, tart cherries are a big crop in the bucolic local countryside. So my time to come is during the harvest in the first full week in July, when the city celebrates the National Cherry Festival.

Also see my guide on the best hidden gems in Michigan !

4. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Traverse City is also the off-ramp for an incredible 35-mile stretch of coastline, as well as two islands on Lake Michigan.

Good Morning America has named Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore the “Most Beautiful Place in America”, and I don’t think it’s hard to see why.

The diversity of this place is awesome, with dunes rising to 450 feet, long sandy beaches, crystalline lakes, cute coastal villages, lighthouses, farms, wooded valleys, historic US Life-saving Service stations, the list goes on.

One of the great experiences here is the Dune Climb by Glen Arbor, rewarding you with a breathtaking view inland of Glen Lake, wrapped in miles of woods.

5. Kitch-iti-kipi

The largest freshwater spring in Michigan has an Ojibwe Native American name that means “Mirror of Heaven”.

Every minute, 10,000 gallons of water bubble up through narrow cracks in the limestone into this tree-cloaked ovular pool, measuring 300 by 175 feet and around 40 feet deep.

The water is clear as can be, with a greenish blue shade, abundant trout, and a sparkling quality if you come on a sunny day.

This is a constant 45°F all year round, and does not tend to freeze in the winter. You can gaze down into Kitch-iti-kipi from a self-guided observation raft operated by a pulley system.

6. Keweenaw Peninsula

A long protrusion on the south shore of Lake Superior, the world’s largest lake, the Keweenaw Peninsula is the place to go for profuse wildlife, remote landscapes, and compelling industrial history.

It’s all home to what are thought to be the largest deposits of native copper in the world. So as unlikely as it may seem today, this far flung nook was the site of a copper boom that attracted many thousands of workers, and accelerated the nation’s development in the 19th century.

You can visit ground zero for the boom at the Quincy Mine and the Delaware Mine, both protected along with a variety of other sites by the ​​Keweenaw National Historical Park.

Copper Harbor is the northernmost permanent settlement in Michigan , and is a great base for outdoor adventure, hiking or riding to secluded beaches, waterfalls and old white pine forest, or making the crossing to Isle Royale.

The Brockway Mountain Drive is my candidate for the most beautiful stretch of road in Michigan, rising more than 720 feet above the Lake Superior shore.

7. Sault Ste. Marie

A titanic clash between the natural and manmade, this waterfront city on the Upper Peninsula is the site of a massive lock system, allowing large freighters to bypass a set of rapids.

I can’t really convey the true size of the Soo Locks, or the spectacle of seeing 1,000-foot ships being lifted into Lake Superior from Lake Huron—you have to see them for yourself.

Right on the shore of the St Marys River, the Soo Locks Visitor Center gives you a courtside view of the action, with freighters passing tantalizingly close.

Sault Ste. Marie nautical heritage is neatly presented along the riverfront, and you can set foot on one of those freighters, boarding the 550-foot SS Valley Camp (1915).

Related reading :  15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Michigan

8. Grand Haven

Picture a classic Michigan beachtown, and I reckon it would look a lot like Grand Haven, where the Grand River flows into Lake Michigan.

You’ve got fine sandy beaches, rolling dunescapes, a lively downtown with historic architecture, and a pair of lighthouses along a picturesque pier with a catwalk.

This is one of those places where you can get anywhere you need to go on foot or by bike, with paved paths linking the pier with downtown.

Grand Haven is in celebratory mood all summer long, with a huge musical fountain putting on a show at the foot of the dune on the opposite bank of the river from downtown.

To sample the city’s maritime character, my tip is to be here in late July/early August for the Coast Guard Festival, dating back all the way to 1924.

9. Sugarloaf Mountain

Posing for photos atop this peak, with a 360° panorama of the rocky Lake Superior shore and miles upon miles of old-growth uplands and outcroppings, you may look like a rugged adventurer.

The truth is, Sugarloaf Mountain is just a short drive from downtown Marquette, and then a moderate half-mile hike from the parking lot. The climb is mostly up stairways, and you can choose between a steeper or shallower route.

The summit is more than 1,000 feet above sea level, and you can choose between three observation decks, blessed with epic views south to Marquette, out over Lake Superior, and inland to Hogsback Mountain.

10. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

The second-largest state park in Michigan features almost 50,000 acres of mostly undeveloped Upper Peninsula wilderness.

If ever there were a place to connect with nature I’m sure this is it, in an area of immense evergreen woods, cedar swamps, 13 inland lakes and more than 30 miles of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

What brings the crowds though is the third most voluminous waterfall east of the Mississippi, measuring 200 feet across and almost 50 feet high, with a discharge of 50,000 gallons per second during the spring runoff.

That main drop can be admired at the Upper Falls where there’s a neatly positioned view platform. The Lower Falls is a series of stunning cascades around an island that you can now reach on a footbridge.

Also check out my guide on the best waterfalls in Michigan !

11. Isle Royale National Park

If the Upper Peninsula isn’t remote enough then you can continue to very north of the state to this remote 45-mile-long island in the northwest of Lake Superior.

Now, getting to Isle Royale isn’t easy, and you’ll need to catch a ferry from Copper Harbor or Houghton, or the seaplane from the latter. But what you’ll find when you get there is perfect wilderness and a rare degree of solitude.

This is the least visited of all of the United States’ national parks, discovered on a massive trail system and inhabited by moose, gray wolves, river otters, beavers, red foxes, and nesting loons, which nest on the lakefront.

There’s almost no light pollution on Isle Royale, which makes it my best place in Michigan to see the Northern Lights, which tend to be most visible in spring and fall.

12. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

The largest state park in Michigan is 60,000 acres of high rocky outcroppings, swamps, lakes, rivers and waterfalls by the shore of Lake Superior.

About half of this landscape is under a dense mantle of the old-growth forest, the largest to be found west of the Adirondacks. The park is named for a rugged escarpment running parallel to the shore, giving rise to inspiring mountain vistas.

The greatest of these is the view over Lake of the Clouds, which sits in a valley between two soaring ridges.

Also easily reached by car is the highest point, Summit Peak (1,958 feet), where a wooden observation tower lifts you above the forest canopy for a view of miles of untrammeled nature.

13. Ann Arbor

The quintessential university town, Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan (1817), the oldest and largest institution of higher education in the state.

Sprinkled with Collegiate Gothic architecture and criss-crossed by tree-lined paths, the U-M campus is often named among the prettiest in America.

There’s a lot to get through, and a few spots to check off are The Diag at the center, the Albert Kahn-designed Hill Auditorium (1913), the Michigan Union, and the magnificent Law Quadrangle (1922-23).

Directly to the west, Ann Arbor’s downtown is a bustling shopping and dining district, with a busy farmers’ market and a movie palace from the 1920s.

You can plan a paddling trip along the Huron River and wander the university’s Nichols Arboretum on the riverside. My ideal time to be in Ann Arbor is in June for the largest juried art fair in the country.

More on Michigan :  15 Best Romantic (Weekend) Getaways in Michigan

14. Marquette

Ten minutes from Sugarloaf Mountain, I think the largest city on the Upper Peninsula warrants its own entry in this list. Marquette has a cute downtown, packed with local businesses and hopping with festivals in all seasons.

The Lower Harbor, an historic departure point for iron ore, is a wonderful place to greet the sunrise, and is dominated by a hulking ore dock, dating to 1931 and built high to transfer its cargo onto freighters.

If you’d like to delve into the UP’s iron ore heritage, the 47-mile Iron Ore Heritage Trail begins at the harbor and takes you into the Marquette Iron Range.

Presque Isle Park, on the northern edge of the city, is a magnificent piece of wilderness left untouched, on the advice of Frederick Law Olmsted who visited in 1891.

15. Warren Dunes State Park

Heading into Michigan along I-94 from Indiana, the first state park you’ll come to is one of the most popular and most beautiful in the entire state.

On almost 2,000 acres, Warren Dunes State Park harbors an undulating dunescape, on a scale that can be hard to comprehend.

These have been given suitably impressive names, like Pikes Peak, Mount Edwards, and also Tower Hill, the tallest of all at 240 feet.

Tower Hill is also the easiest to access, with marvelous scenery from the top and lots of opportunity for fun on the slopes. Where the dunes touch the lake there’s more than two miles of flawless beachfront.

Also see : Most Popular US National Parks

16. Fayette Historic State Park

As intriguing as it is pretty, Fayette is a preserved and partly reconstructed industrial community on Lake Michigan’s Big Bay de Noc. Curled into a little harbor, Fayette was active between 1867 and 1891, mining limestone from the bluffs to make charcoal pig iron.

This place was extremely remote, and even now there’s a pervading sense of seclusion on the south side of the Upper Peninsula, an hour by road from Escanaba.

You’ll have a cluster of labeled historic buildings to check out, and I love the harbor’s clear, rippling waters and the high limestone cliffs, showing signs of 19th-century quarrying.

17. Ludington State Park

There’s a real variety to this 5,300-acre property a few miles north of Ludington. On the west side is the expansive Lake Michigan, traced by sandy beaches, while to the east is Hamlin Lake, the largest manmade lake in Michigan.

Much warmer than its neighbor, this body of water is drained by the Big Sable River, curling through the state park for a mile.

More than 20 miles of trails and boardwalks lead you through dunes, forest, over wetlands and marsh, and up to the lovely Big Sable Point Lighthouse, dating back to 1867 and still active.

You can swim in both lakes, paddle Hamlin Lake, and take an easy tubing trip along that stretch of the Big Sable River.

The stately Arts & Crafts style beach house, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935, is the park’s beach house, hosting interactive exhibits and serving as an anchor for the events in summer.

Read also :  15 Best Beaches in Michigan

18. Holland, Michigan

My pick for a taste of small-town Michigan is this lovable piece of the Netherlands , pitched up on the shore of Lake Michigan in the west of the state.

With a thriving downtown, picture-perfect gardens, golden sandy beaches, and an atmospheric lighthouse, Holland was founded in the mid-19th century by Dutch Calvinist separatists.

It’s fair to say that the city is proud of its heritage, and this is obvious during Tulip Time in May when millions of bulbs are in bloom around the city.

It follows that Holland should have the oldest authentic Dutch windmill in the country: Footed by tulip beds along the Macatawa River, De Zwaan (The Swan) dates back to 1761 and was shipped over in the 1960s.

19. Belle Isle Park

I admit that Detroit is underrepresented on this list, but one of many truly special places in Motor City is this island in the Detroit River, with fabulous views of the city, and south to Windor, Ontario.

Belle Isle was landscaped at the turn of the 20th century, and 13 acres were set aside for a botanical garden and the sublime Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory (1904).

This building and accompanying greenhouses contain important collections of orchids, succulents, tropical plants and bromeliads, while the Belle Isle Aquarium, also from 1904, has a colorful cast of aquatic species, both native and exotic.

On the island’s west side is the opulent James Scott Memorial Fountain (1925), with a lower basin 510 feet in diameter.

Be sure to check out my guide on Detroit before your visit.

20. Manistee

A small but sweet community on the shore of Lake Michigan, Manistee lets the beauty of the location do the talking.

Of course, Manistee attracts visitors but not on the scale of places like Grand Haven and Benton Harbor.

So a bonus for me is that there’s room for everyone at a long line of beaches, adding up to 25 miles on both sides of the mouth of the Manistee River.

Like all the best coastal towns on Lake Michigan, Manistee has a quaint lighthouse, at the end of a pier with a metal-framed catwalk.

You can delve into the town’s nautical heritage aboard the retired railroad car ferry, SS City of Milwaukee (1930), stroll or ride by the Manistee River, and pay a visit to the orchards and large units of the Manistee National Forest in the town’s hinterland.

21. Whitefish Point Light Station

A spot that captures all of the romance and danger of Lake Superior is this historic lighthouse at a corner of the lake known as the Graveyard of the Great Lakes.

Of the 550 major wrecks in the lake, some 200 went down not far from Whitefish Point. There has been a beacon on this headland since 1849, making it the oldest operating lighthouse on the Upper Peninsula.

The current structure was built in 1861, when Abraham Lincoln was president. There’s an observation deck at Whitefish Point where you can look north into the vast expanse of the world’s largest freshwater lake, while this piece of land is on a migratory corridor, making it an internationally recognized site for documenting birds.

To illustrate, every fall more than a third of the entire North American population of red-necked grebes passes through this place.

If, like me, you’re intrigued by Whitefish Point’s seafaring history, the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum goes into lots of detail, and has artifacts including the bell of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald, which sank with all hands in 1975.

Read also :  15 Best Places to Live in Michigan

22. Kalamazoo

A few factors combine to make this small-ish city in southwest Michigan so appealing. First, Kalamazoo sits in some gorgeous country, which can be surprisingly hilly to the west and features more than 80 lakes.

The Kalamazoo River, flows by just east of downtown and is lined with parks and trails, with a gentle flow ideal for launching a kayak or canoe.

The city also has a high level of preservation, with five historic districts, to go with the leafy and culturally rich campuses of Western Michigan University.

I adore Kalamazoo’s downtown, which is walkable and green, with a lot of outdoor seating for restaurants and an early example of a pedestrian mall from the 1950s.

23. Frankenmuth

About the same time as the Calvinists arrived in Holland, this little town in Saginaw County was settled by Lutheran immigrants from around Roßtal in what is now the north of Bavaria.

The settlers planted themselves in a hilly area that recalled their native Middle Franconia, and set about establishing the most German town in Michigan.

Main Street has several blocks of buildings in the romantic style of a traditional Franconian village, and is all the prettier for the adjoining Cass River with its covered bridge and backdrop of low hills.

Frankenmuth wastes no opportunity to celebrate its heritage, with the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival in June, Summer Music Fest in August, and Oktoberfest in September.

I haven’t even mentioned the biggest draw, which is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, opened in 1945, covering more than seven acres, and touted as the largest Christmas store in the world.

24. Heritage Hill Historic District, Grand Rapids

If you have time to spare in Grand Rapids, my tip is to take a walking tour of this dainty historic district, just west of downtown.

Covering a whole square mile, and with more than 1,300 residences, this is one of the largest urban historic districts in the country.

With houses dating from 1843 to the early 20th century, Heritage Hill is a complete survey of American residential architecture in styles from Greek Revival to Prairie School, with a house designed by the great Frank Lloyd Wright in 1908-09.

Heritage Hill hasn’t made it to the 21st century by accident; its preservation was secured in the 1960s with court challenges by residents to prevent demolition work.

25. Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary

At Copper Harbor you may get the feeling that you’re on the outer limits of civilization, but it’s a fact that humans have made their mark here.

Almost all of the old-growth pine forest on the Keweenaw Peninsula was felled during the lumber boom in the 19th and 20th century.

That makes this 508-acre just out of Copper Harbor even more important. Sprouting in the wake of a fire in the late 17th century, the white pines at Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary form one of the last stands of its kind in Michigan, and presents the kind of scenery that greeted voyageurs and settlers on the southern shore of Lake Superior.

Some of the trees here reach more than 125 feet, and the woods provide an ecosystem for birds like red crossbills and hawks to thrive. It’s a beautiful and thought-provoking place to round off my list.

Read next :  24 Amazing Hidden Gems in Michigan

25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Michigan:

• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• Mackinac Island
• Traverse City
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Kitch-iti-kipi
• Keweenaw Peninsula
• Sault Ste. Marie
• Grand Haven
• Sugarloaf Mountain
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park
• Isle Royale National Park
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
• Warren Dunes State Park
• Fayette Historic State Park
• Ludington State Park
• Holland, Michigan
• Belle Isle Park
• Whitefish Point Light Station
• Frankenmuth
• Heritage Hill Historic District, Grand Rapids
• Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary

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Best places to visit in michigan.

Michigan has something to entice just about every kind of traveler. From some of the country's best lake vacations  to charming towns to bustling cities, the Great Lakes State has it all. To help you decide which spots are right for your next vacation, U.S. News considered factors like number of activities, availability of accommodations and sentiment among travelers to decide the best places to visit in Michigan. Vote for your favorite destination below to help decide next year's list.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Pictured rocks national lakeshore, mackinac island, tahquamenon falls state park, traverse city, isle royale national park, holland, mi, grand rapids.

Known for its breathtaking scenery, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is covered in sand dunes that tower more than 450 feet above Lake Michigan. Visitors can climb to the top of the dunes to admire their surroundings or enjoy a picnic lunch at the bottom. The protected area also offers nearly 100 miles of trails for hiking, biking and snowshoeing, including the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, which weaves its way around the lakeshore past many of the park's dunes and bodies of water.

Pictured Rocks, America's first national lakeshore, overlooks Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Its beautiful, diverse landscape attracts outdoorsy types year-round. On the lakeshore's roughly 100 miles of hiking trails, travelers can see everything from spring wildflowers to colorful fall foliage to stunning ice formations, depending on the season. Plus, visitors can swim and boat in the warmer months and ice climb and cross-country ski during the colder months. But remember, lifeguards do not patrol the lakeshore's beaches, so vacationers should be careful when getting in Lake Superior's unpredictable waters.

Mackinac Island's old-world charm (think: horse-drawn carriages and Victorian-style buildings) creates the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway or family vacation. The island banned cars in 1898, so tourists – or Fudgies as locals call them – can only access the island by private boat, ferry or plane. Once on Mackinac, visitors can taste some of its world-famous fudge, tour historical sites like Fort Mackinac and explore the island's state park, which covers more than 80% of the island. Keep in mind, though, that many of Mackinac Island's attractions are closed during the winter months despite the island being accessible year-round.

Occupying nearly 50,000 acres on Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers travelers ample opportunities to reconnect with nature. Lace up your hiking boots to explore the park's 35-plus miles of trails, get out on the Tahquamenon River on a kayak or snap a photo in front of the Upper Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan's largest waterfall. Fishing and camping are popular pastimes in summer, and come winter, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Keep in mind, travelers will need a valid Michigan Recreation Passport to gain admission to the park.

Dubbed the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City feels more like a small town than one of the most populated destinations in northern Michigan. As one of the Midwest's top weekend getaway destinations , the town is known for its charming downtown area and its emerging wine scene, which includes nearly 40 vineyards and wineries. To enjoy warm weather and fun seasonal events like the National Cherry Festival and the Traverse City Film Festival, plan a summer visit.

If you're looking for a tranquil getaway sans distractions, set your sights on Isle Royale National Park. This car-free Lake Superior archipelago is made up of more than 400 islands, all of which can only be accessed via boat or seaplane. While here, travelers can take part in a variety of activities, including hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, fishing and scuba diving (Isle Royale is home to ten major shipwrecks). Remember, the park is open from mid-April through October and offers limited services, so plan accordingly.

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is a haven for visitors and locals come summertime. Explore the lake on a boat cruise or grab a spot in the sand at one of several beaches – Oval Beach and Saugatuck Dunes State Park are both popular picks among travelers. At the latter, thrill-seekers can opt for an exhilarating ride across Saugatuck's famous dunes. Just make sure you leave some time for browsing the goods sold at the town's eclectic boutiques along Butler Street.

This western Michigan town takes its Dutch heritage seriously. During the holiday season, the downtown area transforms into a tribute to all Dutch holiday traditions, complete with roaming carolers and a European-style, open-air Christmas market called Kerstmarkt. Come spring, visitors can celebrate the town's millions of tulip blooms during the Tulip Time Festival, which hosts fun parades and events like traditional Dutch dancing and live musical performances. Must-visit Windmill Island Gardens is an optimal location for viewing these colorful flowers, and families won't want to miss a trip to Nelis' Dutch Village, a Dutch-themed amusement park offering rides, games and more.

This town on Lake Michigan's northeastern shore is one of the state's best tourist destinations. Perhaps best known as a cold-weather vacation spot, Petoskey is home to three major ski resorts with more than 160 slopes and multiple terrain parks. Visitors can also try other winter activities like ice skating, snowmobiling and sledding. For less-adventurous travelers, there's the historic Gaslight District, which is filled with a variety of shops and restaurants. For a one-of-a-kind experience, search for Petoskey stones at Petoskey State Park – these unique fossils can often be found hiding along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

While you'll find plenty of public art and some top-notch museums here, the real reason to visit Grand Rapids is to try its brews. Home to dozens of craft breweries, Grand Rapids has become an award-winning beer destination, so much so that it has earned the nickname of Beer City USA. You'll find guided beer tours, hard cider tastings and even hotel beer packages that bundle your accommodations with extras like free pints and souvenir glasses. When you've had enough hops, check out other top attractions like the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and the Grand Rapids Downtown Market.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

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The top 11 places to visit in Michigan

Apr 26, 2023 • 6 min read

The vibrant streets of Detroit City are one of the best places to visit in Michigan © PQK / Shutterstock

Michigan ’s mojo comes from its beaches, forests and small towns. Visitors often are surprised to learn that four of the five Great Lakes clasp the state and that more than half of it is covered by timberland.

What’s a visitor to do amid all of this natural bounty? We’ve got answers, and don’t worry, you’ll get an urban fix, too. Here are the best places to visit in Michigan. 

Best place for art and nightlife

It’s hard not to fall for the infectious, can-do spirit of Detroit . The edgy public art scene meets you at every turn, from the multi-block, polka-dotted Heidelberg Project to the 100-plus murals remaking the warehouses of Eastern Market . Traditionalists can ogle one of the world’s best collections at the Detroit Institute of Arts . 

Come nighttime, the city rocks, and live music spills out of clubs like Baker’s Keyboard Lounge , a stuck-in-time jazz hotbed. Design hotels and homey restaurants in once-abandoned buildings add to the buzz.

Planning tip:  Detroit is easy on the wallet, with plenty of free things to do .

2. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Best place for days at the beach

One of Michigan’s unheralded national parks , Sleeping Bear Dunes spreads across 35 miles of prime Lake Michigan shoreline. There are two main ways to absorb the true-blue lake views. One is the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive , a 7-mile, one-lane, picnic-grove-studded loop. The other is the Dune Climb , which entails slogging up a 200ft-high sand pile. It will punish your leg muscles, but the summit view of panoramic, Caribbean-hued water is worth it. 

The park’s 14 beaches and 100 miles of forested hiking trails provide more gorgeous vistas, and many families return here year after year to enjoy them.

3. Traverse City 

Best place for couples

It may only have about 15,000 residents, but Traverse City is northern Michigan’s “big” city, with the superb restaurants and cool-cat shops to prove it. Beach lounging, parasailing, cycling bucolic trails and kayaking to breweries with outfitters like Paddle TC provide the action. 

Detour: Vineyards blanket the nearby Old Mission Peninsula, where ten wineries in 18 miles pour chardonnays and pinot noirs. The area has the same microclimate as France's Bordeaux and Italy’s Piedmont regions, and the results are equally delicious. Brys Estate and Peninsula Cellars show how it’s done, with bottles perfect for a beach picnic.

4. Mackinac Island

Best place for families

A zippy 20-minute ferry ride from the mainland, Mackinac Island is a petite charmer speckled with fudge shops, Victorian cottages and 18th-century hilltop forts. Cars are banned, and all travel is by horse-drawn carriage or bicycle, enhancing the time-warp vibe. 

It only takes an hour to cycle around the island — it’s one of Michigan’s top experiences — but allow more time and detour to Fort Mackinac , where costumed interpreters fire cannons (always a big kid pleaser).

Planning tip: Mackinac hushes at night after the day trippers depart, and a million stars blink in the dark sky.

5. Isle Royale National Park

Best place for unspoiled wilderness

Morning fog wisps over the lake. You hear sloshing on the shore and see a moose plop in for a drink. A loon calls – or is it a wolf howling? Either is probable on Isle Royale, one of the least-visited national parks in the US .

The 45-mile-long island floats by its lonesome in Lake Superior, a three- to six-hour ferry ride from Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula. The unspoiled forest has no roads – just 165 miles of hiking trails, 36 rustic campgrounds and one lone lodge. Treks range from the multi-day, island-spanning Greenstone Ridge Trail to the easy-but-dramatic Stoll Trail.

6. Saugatuck

Best place for LGBTQI+ travelers

Known for its golden beaches, piney breezes, fruit pies and a welcome-one-welcome-all mindset, Saugatuck draws boatloads of vacationers. Oval Beach ranks among Michigan's best for its soft sand and psychedelic sunsets. For a dramatic entrance, take the clackety Saugatuck Chain Ferry from downtown, then follow the path up and over the dunes. Artists can seek out the century-old Ox-Bow school in the woods for painting, glass blowing and metalsmithing lessons.

Planning tip: LGBTQI-friendly businesses proliferate in the area, including The Dunes , one of the country’s largest LGBTQI resorts.

7. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Best place for kayaking and boating

This area of cliffs and caves shimmering with wild colors is the Upper Peninsula ’s top sight. The optics come from blue and green minerals that streak the red and yellow sandstone into an artist’s palette of hues. See them from the water to get the full scope.

Pictured Rocks Kayaking and other outfitters can set you up to paddle among arches, caverns, waterfalls and rock formations with names like Lovers Leap and Flower Vase. If that’s too much work, take a seat on Pictured Rock Cruises or glass-bottom Shipwreck Tours as they glide by the marvels.

8. Grand Rapids 

Best place for craft beer breweries

The second-largest city in Michigan, Grand Rapids has gotten its groove on thanks to beer. Around 25 craft breweries operate in the city proper, plus heaps more in nearby towns. The Ale Trail takes you there. There are so many breweries around town that you can walk between many of them, and the bonus is the beers are relatively inexpensive.  Brewery Vivant is foremost among the lineup, pouring Belgian-style suds in an atmospheric old chapel.

Detour: When you get off the barstool, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park awaits, where you can nose through exotic landscapes and eyeball works by world-famous chiselers.

9. Keweenaw Peninsula

Best place for fall colors

The rugged timberland of the Keweenaw Peninsula sits at the very top of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The region was once the world's greatest copper producer, and Keweenaw National Historic Park tells the story. But what you’re really here for is the Brockway Mountain Drive, which climbs high in the sky. 

The 10-mile jaunt shows off terrific views of Lake Superior and is particularly stunning in early October when the leaves flame bright. The outdoorsy towns of Houghton and Copper Harbor bookend the peninsula. Both have breweries, snowboarding, mountain biking and ferries that sail to Isle Royale.

10. Holland

Best place for camping

Yes, the city of Holland is named after the European country. And yes, it has tulips, windmills and clogs in kitschy abundance. The real selling point, though, is  Holland State Park .

Its sprawling beaches are among the state's most popular, where vacationers come to splash in the waves, fish off the pier, hoist a sail, admire fiery sunsets and snap photos of Big Red, the lighthouse that watches over it all.

Planning tip: Camping is a must, especially in the beachside campgrounds a stone’s throw from Lake Michigan.

11. Marquette

Best place for adrenaline sports

Want to explore the Upper Peninsula in all of its rugged, remote, independent-minded glory? Marquette makes a perfect base. It's the UP’s largest town and an adventure sports hotspot . Locals ski, snow bike and explore ice caves in winter, and kayak, rock climb and mountain bike in summer. 

Much of the action happens at Presque Isle Park , a cliffy patch of forest jutting into Lake Superior north of downtown. Nearby Sugar Loaf Mountain offers easy hiking trails and glimpses of the northern lights. Everyone gathers at Black Rocks Brewery to discuss their feats and their bruises afterward.

This article was first published September 2021 and updated April 2023

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20 of the Absolute Best Places to Visit in Michigan

10/05/2021 by Emily Becker 2 Comments

From scenic drives to miles of rugged coastline and everything in between, Michigan is easily one of the most beautiful states in the USA. Michigan is home to thousands of gorgeous freshwater lakes, millions of acres of forests, and hundreds of wonderful cities just waiting for you to explore. Thinking of paying a visit to the Mitten? Here are 20 of the best places to visit in Michigan:

Table of Contents

Cities & Towns

20. detroit.

As Michigan’s largest city, this one is a no-brainer. Detroit has deep historical roots and the city is full of world-class museums, cultural gems, and iconic architecture. It’s home to one of the largest open-air markets in the United States and has new green spaces popping up everywhere. The city is working hard to revamp and renew its reputation.

Known as the Motor City, a visit to Detroit isn’t complete until you take a deep dive into the city’s industrial history. Check out The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation , Automotive Hall of Fame , and the original Ford factory at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant .

-READ NEXT-

22 Spectacular Things to do in Detroit, Michigan

19. South Haven

This lakefront gem of a city is the perfect place for outdoors enthusiasts and relaxed vacationers alike. South Haven is home to some of the most spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan and has plenty of water activities to choose from.

South Haven is home to some excellent trails for hiking and biking, plus a few noteworthy beaches that are ready for your summertime visit. Downtown South Haven is hip and charming, with quirky landmarks, tasty restaurants, and cool breweries to visit.

16 Amazing Things to do in South Haven, Michigan

18. Traverse City

Similar to South Haven, Traverse City is a hub for watersports and outdoor adventures on the calm shores of Lake Michigan. Traverse City’s food and wine scene is especially impressive and will have you making plans to go back immediately after leaving. You’ll find farm-to-table restaurants and wineries with local wines in this charming small city.

A quirk of Traverse City is its reputation for being extremely haunted. The city is home to an old asylum building that you can tour at night . Super spooky! Not only that, but you can also do a full city haunted tour here too!

30 Wonderful Things to do in Traverse City, Michigan

17. Grand Rapids

As the second largest city in Michigan, this one definitely packs a punch. Grand Rapids is known for its vibrant music scene and is also one of the state’s best foodie havens. You’ll also find some neat museums, like the Grand Rapids Public Museum and the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park .

Grand Rapids is a great launching point for some great outdoor adventures as it’s surrounded by forests and lakes. Within the city limits is Millenium Park which features sandy lakeside beaches, hiking trails and marshes. Plus, just 40 minutes south of the city is the Yankee Springs Recreation Area , which is a 5,200 acre natural area with 9 lakes and 8 hiking trails.

16. Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo is a popular getaway destination because of its location about halfway between Chicago and Detroit. In many ways, Kalamazoo is your typical midwestern town, complete with a historic downtown area and plenty of nature surrounding it. This quiet city is one of the best stops on the 275-mile Lake to Lake Trail . While you visit, getting out on the trail is one of the best ways to experience Kalamazoo.

Kalamazoo has some neat museums as well, like the Gilmore Car Museum and the Midwest Miniatures Museum . The city is also home to an impressive collection of breweries, which you can experience on a West Michigan Beer Tour .

15. Mackinac Island

We’ve written about Mackinac Island before on our most beautiful places in the USA and August travel destinations in the USA . Mackinac is actually pronounced like “Mackinaw” due to the complex linguistic history of Native American, British, and French names for the island. This quiet destination in northern Michigan is known for its charm and laid back atmosphere.

Although Mackinac Island is quite a popular tourist spot, the island prides itself on not having a single chain hotel. Another quirk is that there are no cars on the island. To get there, you have to take a ferry. Once on the island, visitors and locals alike mostly get around by bicycle. You might even see some horse-drawn carriages as well!

14. Manistee

Being almost entirely surrounded by water, Manistee is the ultimate water-lovers paradise in Michigan. The surrounding waters include Lake Michigan, Manistee Lake and Manistee River, making this town the ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts who love to kayak, paddle board, or go tubing.

The main drag in town is the Manistee Marina, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, bars, and historical landmarks. Manistee prides itself on its natural beauty, and even has a few Fall Colors Tours if you’re visiting during that time of year. If visiting in the summer, you’re sure to stay busy enjoying the many hiking trails and water adventures. Heading to Manistee in the wintertime? There’s still plenty to do in the colder months .

13. Harbor Springs

Along the deepest harbor in the Great Lakes is lovely Harbor Springs, a quiet waterfront community with unmatched charm. The obvious attractions there revolve around watersports, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and more. However, one of the absolute best things to do in Harbor Springs is to go for a drive through its famous Tunnel of Trees.

This scenic route shows off the very best of Michigan’s forests and has some dreamy lakeside overlooks as well. Harbor Springs is one of many small towns along the route. If you’re on a road trip through the midwest , you definitely shouldn’t miss out on this drive.

12. Frankenmuth

Michigan is full of small towns that were modeled after faraway places and Frankenmuth is a perfect example. This kitschy town is a pretty accurate replica of a typical Bavarian village, complete with typical restaurants and festivals throughout the year.

Frankenmuth was once home to one of the largest concentrations of German immigrants, which is evident in the city’s gastronomy, architecture, and overall German pride. A great way to start your trip is with a Bavarian Belle Riverboat tour along the Cass River.

11. Ann Arbor

Although Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan, it’s far from your typical college town. The town has a reputation for being artsy and hip, with tons of galleries and an annual Street Art Fair that brings visitors from all over the country.

Ann Arbor also has an impressive food scene, with delicious cafes and bistros dotting the streets of downtown. Every fall during college football season, the whole town is buzzing with excitement as spectators support the U of M’s football team. Summertime is a more chill time in Ann Arbor, as most students leave town for the summer.

10. Marquette

Another adorable college town, Marquette has something for everyone, any season. Summertime is quiet, with students home for the summer and year-round residents enjoying the outdoors. There are epic biking trails , hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks and waterfalls, and plenty of things to do on nearby Harlow Lake.

Some say that fall is the best season to visit Marquette because of the breathtaking fall colors. With so many trees in and around the city, the colors are spectacular here. Winter is also a great time to visit, as the hilly landscape around town makes for great skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.

9. De Tour Village

This is Michigan’s Upper Peninsula at its finest. Having water on three sides of the town, DeTour Village is one of the best places to take in the stellar lake views of Lake Huron. DeTour is also at the Easternmost tip of the UP and right on the border with Canada. With miles of beaches and wooded picnic areas, DeTour Village is a beautiful place to connect with nature.

This tiny town is also home to a historical relic–the DeTour Reef Light. This landmark was built in 1931 and carries many stories and history from the area. You can take a tour to learn more about it.

Get ready to step into yet another European wonderland in Holland, Michigan. This quaint town is a pretty accurate replica of a typical Dutch countryside village, complete with windmills, Dutch architecture, and of course, lots of tulips! In fact, Holland hosts an annual Tulip Time Festival at the beginning of May.

In the spirit of all things Dutch, the town also has an impressive Dutch food and beverage scene, including award-winning breweries, microbreweries, and brew pubs. There’s even a theme park modeled after the Netherlands, called Nelis’ Dutch Village where you can get classic treats and watch performances.

7. Copper Harbor

On the Keweenaw Peninsula is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Michigan: Copper Harbor. Boasting rugged Lake Superior shoreline, plus thick forests and rolling hills, this is the ultimate place for adventure. There are great beaches to enjoy, complete with opportunities to paddle board, kayak, or canoe on the lake. You’ll also find the famous Copper Harbor Lighthouse which dates back to 1866.

One of Copper Harbor’s best feature is its diversity of landscapes. From the lake inland, the scene changes from sandy beaches to towering mountains and flat meadows. To see Copper Harbor in all its glory from above, hike to the top of Brockway Mountain to get a bird’s eye view.

6. Charlevoix

If you want to see the northern lights without having to go too far north, give it a try in Charlevoix. The dark skies of northern Michigan, plus the general absence of light pollution make this town a great spot for stargazing or catching a meteor shower. For the best chance to see the aurora borealis , check out Fisherman’s Island State Park and Mt. McSauba during the winter months.

Something else that makes Charlevoix extra special is the famous “mushroom houses” which are the architectural brainchild of master builder Earl Young. Take a stroll around town to see the mushroom houses while you visit!

Being right between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan, there is plenty to do on the water there. Rent a boat, go kayaking, or just hang out on one of the docks for the day. This charming town will have you coming back over and over again.

National & State Parks

5. sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore.

This is easily one of Michigan’s best features and definitely not a place to miss if you’re making your way to the Mitten. With 35 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan, the park has plenty of sandy beach to enjoy. The park’s namesake is the enormous dunes, one of which used to take on the silhouette of a sleeping bear from far away.

One of the best things to do at Sleeping Bear is climb the dunes . You can also explore the best of the park with a hike along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. Most visitors begin their Sleeping Bear adventure at the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center where they can check out the trail map and watch a quick informational video before heading out into nature.

4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Located on the rocky shores of Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the best places in Michigan to enjoy the wild beauty of the lake. Within this over 70,000 acre park, you’ll find sand dunes, forests, waterfalls, inland lakes, and the famous sandstone cliffs.

Pictured Rocks has a wealth of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and campgrounds to enjoy. Being on such a gorgeous lakefront, this is also a fantastic place to embark on a kayaking adventure, checking out the noteworthy rock formations and caves along the coast.

This incredible park is wonderful to visit during any season. Summer is the most obvious season to explore the trails and get out on the water, but winter is an unexpectedly ideal time to visit because of the unique ice formations that appear among the rocks.

3. Isle Royale National Park

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Isle Royale National Park (@isleroyalenps)

In the thick of the Superior Wilderness lies Isle Royale National Park, a rugged isolated island that is a stellar escape from civilization. Because of its remoteness, you’ll also get an incredible view of the stars at night. Isle Royale is perfect for both beginner and advanced backpackers, kayakers, and even scuba divers!

Isle Royale is likely a different kind of island paradise than you’re used to. Instead of warm sandy shores and tropical fish, you’ll find cool crystal-clear waters and perhaps some moose and wolves. If you’re making your way to the Upper Peninsula, definitely don’t miss out on a trip through Isle Royale.

2. Keweenaw National Historical Park

Learn all about the rich history of the Upper Peninsula at Keweenaw National Historical Park. This particular area is famous for its copper mining history, which dates back to when Native Americans began mining it 7,000 years ago. Although no copper is mined here anymore, what remains is a wealth of heritage sites within the park which tell the stories of the past.

Keweenaw is known for its hiking trails, some of which lead to underground tunnels and old mines that you can explore. As you walk through the forests and meadows, you’ll also run into some neat old-timey cabins and other historical replicas that bring the park to life.

1. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is the largest state park in Michigan at about 60,000 acres. It’s one of the few expansive wilderness areas left in the Midwest, making it perfect for travelers who want to truly unplug and connect with nature.

This impressive state park boasts 35,000 acres of old-growth forest, waterfalls, rivers, streams, and hiking trails that will take you through the best parts of the park. There are great options for camping, too. You’ll find modern and rustic campsites, along with plenty of options for backcountry camping .

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If you’re not already looking for flights to Michigan, I can almost guarantee that you will be soon. Being such a beautiful state with so much diversity, there’s truly something for everyone there. Are you a Mitten resident? What epic places did we miss?

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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Manas Patil says

10/06/2021 at 1:56 am

Holy, that was one insightful piece on Michigan’s spots. While the Detour Village and Harbour Springs look like must-visit places, I’m tempted to go for the town, Holland – just after listening about its windmills and tulips!

ali ahmed says

10/12/2021 at 9:16 am

very beautiful places to visit in this place.

21 Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Written By: Sherry Trautman

United States

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Looking for the best places to visit in Michigan? Explore this exciting and diverse state with this insider’s guide to the best things to do in Michigan by a local.  Michigan is a favorite vacation destination for nature lovers, photographers , adventurers , extreme sports enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an unforgettable experience. 

The Great Lake State attracts visitors from around America and Canada. From the north shore of Lake Michigan to the Motown and  Motor City heritage of Detroit , there are many reasons to visit Michigan.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

These are the very best places to visit in Michigan as recommended by Michigander Sherry Trautman who was born and raised locally. If you are looking for  road trip ideas , add these places in Michigan to your trip. This post has been updated by The Planet D for 2023.

You cannot have a list of the best things to do in Michigan and not include the Motor City of Detroit. Detroit is Michigan’s largest city and has a lot more to offer than just cars and Motown (although those are pretty cool too). Detroit has a cool art scene with the Detroit Institute Of Arts Museum and the Heidelberg Project just to name a few.

If you do visit Detroit you do not want to miss the museums. From the Motown Museum and the Detroit Historical Museum to the Henry Ford Museum, you can learn all about what Detroit was like in its heyday and a visit to Corktown and the East MArket will give a great look into the city’s culture.

If you want to learn more about all the great things to do in Detroit, make sure to check out our in-depth article here.   Read more:  Best Things to Do in Detroit Michigan

Where to Stay in Detroit

• The Marriott at the Renaissance Center  is located directly on the People Mover making it a good central location. Located in one of the 7 towers of the Renaissance Centre, this is a great location in Detroit.
• Doubletree Suites by Hilton  – We enjoyed our stay here in Fort Shelby, a historical district at the train station. The Fox Theatre and Detroit Opera House are nearby, and some of the area’s notable landmarks include Masonic Temple and Ambassador Bridge.

2. Charlevoix

Did you know you can see your own little slice of Hobbiton in Michigan? Charlevoix is not only a great place to make a base in Northern Michigan, but it is also home to the unique mushroom houses designed by renowned architect, Earl Young.

Located four hours north of Detroit, a visit to Charlevoix was one of our favorite things to do in the lower peninsula. Its picturesque setting makes it one of the best romantic getaways in Michigan.

Start by taking a guided tour of the beautiful homes that resemble mushrooms, search for Petosky stones at Fisherman’s Island State Park and Lake Michigan Beach, and take a tour of Castle Farms, one of Michigan’s premier historic attractions. This castle was built in 1918 by then  Sears, Roebuck & Co-president, and offers a little slice of Europe in the heart of Michigan. There is an intricate model railroad and hedge maze. This is a beautiful stop on any visit to Michigan. Read more: Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix – All Hobbits Welcome to Michigan!

• Note:  You can even   book a vacation rental  in several of the mushroom houses. Check prices on  TripAdvisor

3. Relax on Mackinac Island

There’s a reason why Mackinac Island tops our best places to visit in Michigan. It is such an idyllic island destination for adventurers, dreamers, and lovers.

No cars are allowed on the island and since horse-drawn carriages, walking, and bicycles are the only modes of transportation on the island, you’ll feel your body and mind slowly relax. A great idea is to go horseback riding on the island.

Close your eyes for a moment and imagine the soothing sounds of waves lapping against the rocks, the soft “clop, clop” sound of horse-drawn carriages slowly passing by, and the warmth of the sun on your face. 

Situated between the Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula of Michigan in the Straits of Mackinac, Mackinac Island is home to beautiful sunsets, art shows, and endless opportunities for water activities. It is like an island escape on the mighty Lake Huron. Before taking the ferry over to the Island, stop in at Bridge View Park to take a photo of the iconic Mackinac Bridge. It is the fifth-longest suspension bridge in the world. Check out 8 Reasons You Must Visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Where to Stay on Mackinac island

A great place to stay is The Grand Hotel . This historic grand hotel has been welcoming guests since 1887 and has been named the best hotel by the likes of Conde Nast and Travel and Leisure. See reviews on TripAdvisor

Things to do

• Rent a bicycle as the island is eight miles in circumference
• Climb the 207 stairs up Castle Rock (yes, I counted!) to see the famous Arch Rock and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
• Learn about the island’s history while touring Fort Mackinac (and if you are lucky, you might get to fire the cannon!)
• Visit the beautiful Butterfly House 
• Rent a kayak to enjoy exquisite, seldom-seen views of the island and the Straits of Mackinac. 
• Indulge your sweet tooth on creamy Mackinac Island Fudge. 
• Tour the iconic Grand Hotel and its majestic gardens. 

4. Grand Rapids

If you are into microbrews or beer in general Grand Rapids is a place you don’t want to miss. Located on the banks of the Grand River not far from Lake Michigan, Grand Rapids has more than 80 Craft Breweries and numerous awards and you will soon find out why they have nicknamed Grand Rapids “Beer City USA”.

If beer is not your thing Grand Rapids also has some fantastic art galleries and shopping. You don’t want to miss the Grand Rapids Art Museum or the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, both deserve a visit on your next trip to Michigan. Kids won’t be left out either with a visit to the John Ball Zoo.

If you are looking for outdoor activities, make sure to paddle along the Grand River Heritage Trail, the 41-mile waterway is an outdoor lover’s playground. And history buffs will enjoy The Gerald Ford Presidential Museum.

For a fun day with the whole family, head out to Michigan’s Adventure, the state’s largest amusement park with roller coasters, water parks, and family-friendly rides.

5. Traverse City

Traverse City is ripe (pun intended) for excellent wine tasting, kayaking, biking, exploring, and indulging in all things cherry. The largest city in northwest Michigan, Traverse City is located at the southern tip of Grand Traverse Bay and is a must-stop on a Northern Michigan road trip.

The Cherry Capital of the World and its five surrounding counties produce forty percent of the annual tart cherry crop in the U nited States . While visiting Traverse City, snap a fun photo in front of the World’s Largest Cherry Pie Pan, enjoy an ice cream flight at Moomers, and embark on a tall ship adventure. If you visit in July, the National Cherry Festival will be in full swing.  This fun Michigan festival draws over 500,000 visitors annually!  Traverse City’s cherry blossoms bloom in May, offering excellent photography opportunities while tasting wine on the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas.

Tours and Where to Stay

Discover the spooky side of the city by touring the abandoned state mental facility and steam tunnels at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons, one of the largest historic preservation and adaptive reuse redevelopments in the country.   This 1.5 hour ghost tour let’s you explore traverse city at night as you stop at some of the popular attractions.

• This condo in Traverse City has two bedrooms, two baths and sleeps 6. There is parking, and it is walking distance of downtown Traverse City, with all the delightful restaurants and shops.  Check it out on VRBO
• Sugar Beach Resort Hotel located directly on the beach of East Grand Traverse Bay.

Cool Fact: In 2009 TripAdvisor named Traverse City the #2 small town travel destination in the US and it has been named one of the Top 10 Places to retire in the country.

6. Discover Shipwrecks and Fossils in Alpena

Alpena sits on the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary in Lake Huron. Did you know there are over 200 shipwrecks in this sanctuary? While visiting Alpena, be sure to take an exhilarating glass-bottom boat tour to view several sunken wrecks throughout Thunder Bay. It’s an unforgettable experience! 

The Alpena region also offers outstanding hiking, beautiful biking trails, exploring, and kayaking opportunities at Island Park, Besser Natural Area, and Rockport State Park. Read more at Fun and Unique Things to do in Northern Michigan

7. Frankenmuth – Fried Chicken and Christmas Wonderland 

As a word of warning, Frankenmuth, Michigan, can easily steal your heart. This charming Bavarian- themed town is home to the famous Holz Bruke-covered bridge, horse-drawn carriage rides, and tantalizing sausage, taffy, and fudge shops. For a unique experience, book a pretzel rolling class at the Bavarian Inn or embark on a riverboat excursion on the family-owned Bavarian Belle.  

Frankenmuth is one of Michigan’s top tourist attractions and part of the six communities that make up the Great Lakes Bay region. A Hallmark movie or two has even been filmed in Frankenmuth thanks to its christmas theme.

Your trip to Frankenmuth isn’t complete until you’ve treated yourself to Zehnder’s famous fried chicke n or shopped for handmade ornaments at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store. And make sure to stop at the Frankenmuth Historical Museum to learn about the fascinating history of the area. You won’t leave the seven-acre store empty-handed as 50,000 trims and gifts will tempt you at every turn! 

8. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a busy park with excellent waterfalls. One looks like a mini Niagara Falls . I could see us sticking around for a day or two for hiking, swimming and simply enjoying the scenery. There were a lot of people visiting the Falls. There are two entrances, an upper and lower falls.

This stop on our best places to visit in Michigan was a part of our scenic drive through the Lake Superior Circle Tour – Ultimate Two Week Itinerary . We drove from the Canadan border through Whitefish Point and Grand Marais.

The upper is the larger and more beautiful of the two, but the lower had an option to take a boat or go for hikes so they are both a must-stop. Three are 40 miles of scenic trails to go hiking through so spend a day and enjoy the great outdoors.

Grand Marais makes for a great base to explore Tahquamenon Falls and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. More on that below.

9. Rockport State Park

If you are feeling adventurous, spend a couple of hours at Rockport State Park searching for the expansive rock quarry and fascinating bat hibernaculum. You can also find and bring home rare Devonian fossils dating back 400 million years! 

Located just north of Alpena, Rockport State Parks spans 4,237 on the shores of Lake Huron. Go hiking to find the series of sinkholes and keep an eye out for the Devonian Period fossils. This is a great park for hiking and cycling. Plus it is known for its dark skies.

10. Photograph Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most picturesque places to visit in Michigan. Located on the south shore of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula it is a summer and winter playground. Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing in the winter, hiking, and kayaking in the summer offer breathtaking views of the majestic sandstone cliffs and untouched beaches.

There are approximately 100 miles of hiking trails to explore to enjoy a peaceful commune with nature. In the winter this is a popular spot for cross-country skiing.

If you visit Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore during the winter season, several frozen waterfalls are worth hiking or snowshoeing several miles. You can even go ice climbing as pictured rocks have some of the best ice climbing in the country. You can also explore the breathtaking Eben Ice Caves located in Eben Junction, just 20 miles southwest of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. 

11. Sand Dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-see while visiting Michigan. Located in Michigan’s lower peninsula on the shores of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is just 30 miles from Traverse City. The dunes themselves rise over 150 feet above the shores of Lake Michigan and climbing to the top is definitely worth it. Perhaps one of the most scenic and diverse views of the dunes is Pierce Stocking Drive located near Empire, Michigan.

You will have the opportunity to photograph vast sweeping dunes, climb an incredibly steep dune and embark on scenic hikes, including the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, which follows the shoreline of Lake Michigan and offers some stunning panoramas. While you are visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore and the surrounding area, consider driving south on M-22 to see Point Betsie, one of Michigan’s most beautiful lighthouses. 

Where to Stay

• To explore sleeping bear dunes, this vacation rental is located just tone blog from Empire Beach on Lake Michigan in the historical small town of Empire. See it on VRBO .
• Sleeping Bear is also located just 40 minutes from Traverse City. A good place to stay in Traverse City at Sugar Beach Resort Hotel located directly on the beach of East Grand Traverse Bay.
• This condo  in Traverse City has two bedrooms, and two baths, and sleeps 6. There is parking, and it is walking distance of downtown Traverse City, with all the delightful restaurants and shops.  Check it out on VRBO

12. Rafting Adventure in East Jordan 

Rafting, tubing, and kayaking fans will love the clear, fast-moving rapids of the East Jordan river. Views of the towering pine trees are breathtaking with each turn and bend in the river. Rafting down the river with Jordan River Outfitters after a fresh snowfall is a chilly yet beautiful and exhilarating winter experience. 

The Jordan River is located on the northwestern part of the lower peninsula and takes you through the untamed wilderness where you may spot beavers, otters, white-tailed deer, and perhaps the elusive bald eagle.

13. Sand Dunes of Silver Lake

If heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping action is your idea of a fantastic vacation, consider adding a dune buggy adventure in Silver Lake to your Michigan vacation itinerary. Upon arriving, you will notice the town feels alive, almost vibrating with energy and excitement.  

Adrenalin fans can rent jeeps or buggies to crest and rush down the towering dunes overlooking sparkling Silver Lake. For a shorter, family-friendly dune experience, embark on an exhilarating dune ride with a local tour company.  

14. Midland’s Record-Breaking Canopy Walk

For a unique Michigan experience, visit the Nation’s Longest Canopy Walk in the Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan. Located at Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest in Midland, this 1400-foot-long canopy walk weaves through a red pine forest.

Open year-round, discover what it’s like to wander among the treetops and walk suspended 40 feet above the ground. While visiting Midland, cheer on the Loons during a rousing baseball game or explore the Tridge, a three-way wooden footbridge offering a bird’s eye view of the Chippewa and Tittabawassee rivers.  

It’s located 30-minutes northwest of Saginaw and two hours from Detroit.

15. Relax and Explore East Tawas 

Tawas Point State Park is a fantastic place to visit during all four of Michigan’s seasons. The warmer weather months offer opportunities to kayak, paddleboard, bike, camp, relax on the beach or meander along the Saginaw Bay Birding Trail. During winter, clamp some crampons onto the sole of your boots and explore the Sandy Hook Nature Trail paralleling Lake Huron. Tawas Point Lighthouse’s bright red brick is also a striking contrast against sparkling white snow.  

Downtown East Tawas offers excellent boutique shopping and dining on Newman Street. Wander the boardwalk around the nearby marina for views of luxurious boats bobbing in the water and waves cresting on Lake Huron. As you stroll, grab a Pronto Pup, a surprisingly crispy corn dog on a stick for a fun afternoon snack. 

16. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

One of the best places to visit in Michigan if you want a more remote trip is the Upper Peninsula’s Porcupine Mountains. Located on the western tip of this area of Michigan, the Porcupine Mountains is the outdoor adventurer’s destination of choice.

With over 60,000 acres of wilderness you can tackle hiking trails that take you to beautiful waterfalls and overlooks and if you visit in the winter snow shoeing and cross country skiing are on the menu.

Whichever way you decide to explore the Porcupine mountains, hiking, hopping on the biking brails, or paddling you will be sure to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you in this part of Michigan. Make sure you don’t miss the Lake of the Clouds, it was our favorite part of the Porcupine Mountains.

17. Holland

One thing you will find when you are looking at the best places to visit in Michigan is that a lot of them are Quirky little towns. Holland definitely fits this description.

Located not far from Grand Rapids, Holland was founded by Duch Americans and is nicknamed the “Tulip City”. Holland definitely celebrates its Dutch heritage. You will feel like you have stepped back in time with Duch-inspired architecture and even a 250-year-old windmill (DeZwaan) that has been imported from the Netherlands in The Duch Village.

No visit to Holland would be complete without vising the Windmill Island Gardens. Strolling through the beautiful gardens is especially memorable if you are there in the spring during the Tulip Time Festival when over 100,000 tulips are in bloom throughout the garden. It is quite a sight to see. We have done this in Ottawa at the World’s Largest Tulip Festival

18. Isle Royale National Park

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience in the far north of the Upper Peninsula, make your way to the isolated Isle Royale National Park.

Located in Lake Superior, Isle Royal National Park is only accessible by boat or floatplane and offers backcountry hiking and camping through its north woods forest. It is the largest island in Lake Superior with plenty of outdoor recreation and nature activities. Isle Royal, there are plenty of outdoor activities for hikers, kayakers, and canoeists and there is scuba diving here as well.

19. Ann Arbor

The heart of Ann Arbor is its charming downtown area, filled with boutique shops, delicious restaurants, and lively bars. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is an interactive museum that is perfect for families with kids, as it offers hands-on exhibits and activities that teach visitors about science, technology, and more.

It’s also home to the University of Michigan. Thanks to the student population. The list of recreational activities here is endless. Take a tour of the beautiful campus and check out the museums and galleries, including the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology and the University of Michigan Museum of Art.

Ann Arbor is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries and taprooms to choose from. Take a tour of a brewery or visit a taproom to sample some of the best beers in the region. The Kerrytown District is the historic Market district that is perfect for shopping in boutiques. The Ann Arbor Farmers Market is a popular destination in Kerrytown for locals and tourists alike. The market features a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and other products from local farmers and artisans.

Explore vineyards, enjoy performing arts, dance the night away in the many nightclubw. If you’re lucky you get to watch sports events at the Michigan stadium, one of the biggest in the state.

20. Lansing

A visit to Michigan would not be complete without a visit to its capital, Lansing. Warm weather and breathtaking view of the great lakes await. Visit the Michigan State Capital building. This National Historic Landmark was is one of the first capital buildings in the US to feature a cast iron dome.

Lansing feels very diverse and dynamic thanks to its huge student population. The city has something for everyone both old and young. Start by exploring the capital building or learn more about the history of Michigan at the Michigan History Center, a museum dedicated the early European explorers.

The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum is dedicated to Old American modes of transportation from an old steam engine to classic cars.

21. Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo has more to offer than its ancient name might suggest. The city is home to Western Michigan University and offers endless opportunities for adventure seekers. Popular attractions for visitors here include the Kalamazoo Valley Museum which is full of interesting exhibitions on science, technology, and history. Its hands-on exhibits make it a unique experience for the whole family.

A stop at The Nature Center The center is well-maintained and with lots of flowers. A stroll through the garden is very calming experience thanks to the sounds of singing birds and water flowing.

Visit the Kalamazoo Insitute of Arts. The institute boasts an impressive collection of thought-provoking pieces by American artists and around the world.

23. Bay City

Bay City is a picturesque town located on Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. It is one of the six communities that make up the Great Lakes Bay Region. We visited during the tall ships festival and we highly recommend it. But there are plenty of things to do in Bay city from touring the USS Edson. This battle ship is docked full time in the harbor. Even if you are not a history buff, the tour is interesting because of the guides.

A visit to the historic Regent Theater is a must and make sure to go sailing to explore the beautiful coast.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Fall in love with Michigan

So there you have it. These are my favorite places to visit in Michigan. If you are visiting Michigan, be sure to get out of Detroit and see all the cool attractions that the Great Lake State has to offer.

If you enjoyed all of these places to visit in Michigan, Save this post to Pinterest for future travel planning.

• Surprising Water Adventures in Northern Michigan
• Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix, Michigan
• 13 of the Best Canadian Road Trips – That We’ve Done
• United States Travel Guide

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
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Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Sherry Trautman

As a born and raised Michigander and produces the Michigan adventure blog, Traveling Michigan, where she helps vacationers travel smartly, save money, and get the most out of their adventures across Michigan. Follow Sherry at Travel-MI.com / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube / Twitter

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3 thoughts on “21 Best Places to Visit in Michigan”

These are the best travel tips I ever read. I love traveling too. thanks

My Next Trip Will Definitely Be Michigan Thanks For Sharing This Useful Information

Thanks for sharing these beautiful places.

• Last Updated On
• August 21, 2023

15 Best Places to Visit in Michigan — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

Michigan is a waterfront U.S. state nestled on the shores of the Great Lakes.

This beautiful state holds numerous enjoyable possibilities for you to enjoy no matter whom you are traveling with and what you want to do.

Have a grand time as you go on lakefront adventures, tour a museum, explore its many charming cities, visit a nearby island, spend the day at a national park, take in the grandeur of the great outdoors, and plenty of other fun options.

Gather your travel buddies, start your car, and set off on the vacation of a lifetime as you make your way through some of the best places to visit in Michigan, as shown on the list below that I handpicked specially for you.

The 15 Best Places to Visit in Michigan for 2024

These are our favorite vacation ideas in Michigan. In other words, the top destinations and places to go in MI.

Starting with…

1. Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, MI 49757 (906) 847-3783

Mackinac Island is a jaw-droppingly gorgeous city found a couple of miles offshore.

It rests on the shores of Lake Huron and is a popular summer destination for tourists.

Why You Should Visit This Place

Are you looking for what to do in Michigan with your family or friends to enjoy a memorable summer vacation?

If you are, make your way to Mackinac Island.

On this picture-perfect island, you can create new memories as you enjoy a handful of fun activities.

Like, trying their renowned fudge from local shops, biking, or horseback riding through scenic trails, boating, roaming through gardens filled with free-flying butterflies, and more.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

When visiting this island city, you should pack light and wear comfortable shoes.

There are no motorized vehicles allowed, so you will spend a lot of time walking around or riding bikes.

Detroit, MI 48226 (800) 338-7648

Detroit , founded in 1701, is the largest city in the state.

It is nicknamed the Motor City and sits on the borders of Canada.

Detroit is one of the best cities to visit in Michigan, offering countless recreational possibilities for you to enjoy with your companions amidst an eye-catching landscape.

It has many places of interest for you to explore together to guarantee a fun-filled time.

For example, Historic Fort Wayne, a historical landmark and fort constructed in the mid-1800s, the Detroit Historical Museum, where you can learn about local history, and Comerica Park, ideal for watching thrilling sports games or concerts.

A must-visit on your sightseeing adventure in this city is the Detroit Institute of Arts.

It features at least 100 galleries and an impressive collection of over 65,000 pieces of artwork.

Related: Places to Eat in Detroit

Related: Best Things to Do in Michigan

3. Great Lakes Bay

(800) 444-9979

Great Lakes Bay is a waterfront county nestled on the shores of Saginaw Bay, part of Lake Huron.

Bond with your friends, significant other, or loved ones at one of the top Michigan tourist attractions, Great Lakes Bay.

It offers you a boat-load of enjoyable activities to keep you and your companions well-entertained throughout your visit.

Have a blast as you do things like going on a riverboat cruise, camping, lazing on a beach, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, going on a fishing expedition, sipping a pint of beer at a brewery, beating the heat at an indoor waterpark, and plenty of other fun options.

If you are traveling with your partner and want to go on a romantic date, book the Wine & Chocolate River Tour with Frankenmuth Funships.

It includes cruising on the peaceful waters while enjoying at least five different wines and exquisite chocolates.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Points By Sheraton – Saginaw

Related: Best Waterpark Hotels in Michigan

Related: Upper Peninsula Attractions

Holland, MI 49423 (616) 394-0000

Holland is arguably one of the most stunning cities in Michigan.

It has a rich Dutch heritage which serves a significant role in its cultural identity.

When searching for beautiful places to visit near you to go on an unforgettable sightseeing trip, Holland is the place to be, featuring a stunning landscape and Dutch-inspired architecture.

Some of the destinations you can visit are the Windmill Island Gardens, boasting a magnificent tulip garden and 250-year-old windmills, Nelis’ Dutch Village, a Neverland-inspired theme park, and the DeGraaf Nature Center, an 18-acre nature preserve.

The best time to visit this city is during the Tulip Time Festival in May.

It is a popular event drawing large crowds and features firework displays, at least three parades, live entertainment, a lively market selling all sorts of goods, and thousands of tulips lining its streets.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton Holland

Related: Best Places to Eat in Holland

5. Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (616) 456-3000

Grand Rapids , sitting on the banks of the Grand River, is known for its art galleries, several gardens, and other top-rated attractions.

Do you finally have time away to get a break from work and your responsibilities at home?

Are you looking for the best places to travel in Michigan to go on a much-desired getaway?

If you are, then Grand Rapids is a terrific choice.

Unwind as you do things like viewing awe-inspiring exhibits at an art museum, exploring its many eye-catching sculptures, taking pictures of the many architectural masterpieces, shopping at a downtown market, observing animals at a nature center, and so much more.

Don’t leave the city without paying a visit to the John Ball Zoo, which first opened in 1891.

Here, you can view thousands of animals representing more than 238 species from all across the globe.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

Related: Best Places to Eat in Grand Rapids

6. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore — Maple City

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore Maple City, MI 49664 (231) 326-4700

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore, covering about 71,199 acres, features miles of pristine sandy beach and over 100 miles of picturesque trails.

If you are searching for where to go in Michigan to enjoy the ultimate beach trip with your travel companions, then drive on down to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore.

Enjoy a laid-back day sprawled on a sandy shoreline as you work on your tan, help your kids make towering sandcastles, swim in the sparkling water, go paddleboarding, boating, and the like.

Other activities you can do are hiking, camping, stargazing, biking, birdwatching, and more.

If you want to bring your furry friend along for the ride, check their official website for an updated list of pet-friendly places in the area, like the Glen Lake Beach Park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Empire Lakeshore Inn

Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Michigan

7. Traverse City

Traverse City, MI 49684 (231) 947-1120

Traverse City , first settled in 1847, sits on both the east and west sections of the Grand Traverse Bay.

It is one of the most popular vacation spots in Michigan, featuring a myriad of attractions.

Spend quality time with your family, a special someone, or friends at one of the top places to visit in Michigan, this bayfront city.

Some of the activities you can enjoy together are kayaking on glass-bottom boats, hiking through trails of varying difficulties, going wine tasting at its many vineyards, touring a charming farm, spending the day at a freshwater beach, and countless more.

For a more unforgettable time with your companions, visit this city during the first week of July, when they hold their annual National Cherry Festival.

This highly celebrated event features numerous vendors selling all sorts of tasty treats, an art and crafts fair, air shows, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Traverse City, MI

Related: Best Places to Eat in Traverse City

8. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park — Ontonagon

33303 Headquarters Road Ontonagon, MI 49953 (906) 885-5275

The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park encompasses roughly 60,000 acres.

It features 90 miles of hiking trails, cascading waterfalls, babbling streams, roaring rivers, a dense forest, and awe-striking mountain backdrops.

Enjoy a nature retreat like no other at the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

Here, you can enjoy a wide array of recreational opportunities in the great outdoors, like backcountry camping, hiking, working on your nature photography skills, fishing, mountain biking, going on ranger-led excursions, swimming, and so on.

During the winter months, you can have a terrific time in the snow doing things like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and the like.

Make a quick stop at the Porcupine Mountains Visitor Center so that you can learn more about the area by viewing its various displays.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AmericInn by Wyndham Silver City

9. Blue Water Area — Port Huron

500 Thomas Edison Pkwy Port Huron, MI 48060 (800) 852-4242

The Blue Water Area is a well-loved attraction sitting on the shores of Lake Huron and the St. Clair River.

It is one of the most popular sites in Michigan for its Caribbean-blue waters.

One of the top places to go in Michigan for an amazing vacation is this paradise-like attraction, where you can spend your time swimming in crystal clear turquoise waters.

It features at least 140 miles of magnificent waterfront communities that you can explore with your companions.

Have a brilliant time on the water as you go stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, boating, and the like.

On land, you can also enjoy a multitude of activities like watching an enthralling performance at a local theater, shopping at boutique stores, golfing, and lots more.

When vacationing with someone with a physical disability, visit the North River Road Park Access Site or the Downtown Port Huron Black River Access.

They both have ADA-accessible facilities, like kayak launches catering to wheelchairs.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn

10. Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor, MI 48103 (734) 995-7281

You can find Ann Arbor in the western region of the state.

It is a renowned city for its many cultural attractions and spectacular museums.

Experience the best of Michigan by going on an unforgettable getaway with your friends and family by vacationing in this well-loved city.

There are numerous fun possibilities for all ages that you can enjoy amidst its peaceful and charming scenery.

Some of its tourist hotspots include the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, featuring various themed sections, the Leslie Science & Nature Center, which has raptor enclosures and hiking trails, and the Michigan Theater, where you can watch phenomenal live performances.

The Michigan Stadium is the third-largest stadium in the world and a must-see on your trip.

Before leaving, take time to watch a thrilling game that will leave you and your companions on the edge of your seats.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Graduate Ann Arbor

Related: Best Places to Eat in Ann Arbor

11. Saugatuck

Saugatuck, MI 49453 (269) 857-1701

Saugatuck, incorporated in 1868, is a quaint and charming city that beckons tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.

Are you craving for a relaxing getaway, far from congested cities, noisy crowds, and bustling streets?

Then head on over to the postcard-perfect Saugatuck.

Enjoy a chill day out with your travel buddies as you do things like viewing local creations at an art gallery, going on a scenic ferry ride, sipping fine wine, shopping for antiques, booking a guided boat tour, and so much more.

Do not head home without visiting its famous Oval Beach.

It features a sandy shoreline, rolling dunes, crystalline water, and countless amenities.

Many acknowledge it as one of the top freshwater beaches in the country.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: CityFlatsHotel Holland, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Related: Best Beaches in Michigan

12. Petoskey

Petoskey, MI 49770 (231) 347-2500

Petoskey is a resort community resting on the banks of Little Traverse Bay within Lake Michigan.

It features streets lined with buildings inspired by Victorian-style architecture.

Get a break from the mundane routine of your regular life by going on a much-needed escape with your friends to Petoskey.

Visit attractions like Petoskey State Park, ideal for beach trips, Odawa Casino, where you can play on up-to-date slot machines, and the Bear River Valley Recreation Area, the ideal attraction if you want to go on an adrenaline-rushing outdoor adventure.

The best place to go shopping in Petoskey is at the Historic Gaslight District, featuring a plethora of shops offering cheap, high-quality, and rare finds.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Petoskey, an IHG Hotel

Related: Best Places to Eat in Petoskey

13. Tahquamenon Falls State Park — Paradise

41382 W M-123 Paradise, MI 49768 (906) 492-3415

Tahquamenon Falls State Park spans more than 46,170 acres.

It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Michigan, welcoming roughly 500,000 visitors annually.

Create memories that will last a lifetime by going on an adventure in the great outdoors with your friends, significant other, or tribe at Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

Enjoy this natural beauty to the fullest by doing activities like hiking through forested trails, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, camping, observing wildlife from a safe distance, and in the snowy months, skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.

There are many campgrounds throughout the state park.

If you want a more primitive experience, camp in the Rivermouth area.

However, if you prefer a more modernized camping trip, opt for the Lower Falls section.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Tahquamenon Suites Lodging

Related: Michigan Itinerary

14. Isle Royale National Park — Houghton

800 East Lakeshore Drive Houghton, MI 49931 (906) 482-0984

Isle Royale National Park, established in April 1940, is about 572,000 acres in size.

It sits on an island on the azure waters of Lake Superior.

This state park is a haven for nature lovers, offering the ideal place for you to enjoy several nature activities.

It is the perfect attraction if you are looking for cool and unique places to visit in Michigan to have a memorable time with your companions.

Many fun possibilities await you here, like kayaking, canoeing, hiking, boating, camping, fishing, scuba diving, signing up for ranger programs, and numerous others.

Drop by Rock Harbor towards the northeastern end of the island if you are looking for a place to dine and get basic amenities.

Here, you can find a restaurant, a camp store, showers, a boat dock, and lodging facilities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Houghton, MI

15. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore — Munising

N8391 Sand Point Rd Munising, MI 49862 (906) 387-3700

The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the top places to see in Michigan, featuring dramatic rock formations, cerulean water, majestic waterfalls, and spectacular nature views.

Take your family, partner, or friends to one of the best places to visit in Michigan, this breathtakingly gorgeous national seashore.

Here, you can enjoy several fun-filled activities, such as scuba diving, boating, sea kayaking, canoeing, back-country camping, fishing, hiking, picnicking, exploring its many waterfalls, and so on.

During wintertime, you can go skiing, ice climbing, snowmobiling, and taking photos of the stunning ice formations that form on the rocks.

There are no commercial food establishments in the area, so before visiting, make sure you pack enough food and water for you and your travel buddies.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: North Star Hotel Pictured Rocks

Map of The Best Michigan Places to Visit

• Mackinac Island
• Great Lakes Bay
• Grand Rapids
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore — Maple City
• Traverse City
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park — Ontonagon
• Blue Water Area — Port Huron
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park — Paradise
• Isle Royale National Park — Houghton
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore — Munising

• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Exciting Cities
• Food And Drink
• Outdoor Adventures
• Where To Stay
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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Interesting Michigan Day Trips For Your Bucket List

May 30, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

If you are looking for some fun Michigan day trips and do not know where to start, don’t worry! We have you covered!

There are so many fun things to do in Michigan as it is a gorgeous state that is bursting with cool cities, adorable small towns, and beautiful nature spots.

If you are a nature lover, you will be happy to hear that Michigan touches three of the Great Lakes and has many awesome state parks.

Anyone who enjoys the bustle of city life will have a blast exploring some of the large cities in Michigan with all of their shopping and dining options, museums, and art galleries.

If the small-town vibe is more your style, there are a ton of super cute towns in Michigan with historic architecture and fun festivals.

Here are some of the best Michigan day trips for your bucket list!

Grand Rapids

There are so many things to do in Grand Rapids that that’s where the list begins!

This Midwest vibrant city has many activities to keep the whole family entertained. No matter your interests, there is something to do here.

Children will not be complaining they are bored when you take them to the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum or the Lena Meijer Children’s Garden.

Kids and adults alike will love the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

If you are into art or history, make sure to visit the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the Grand Rapids Public Museum, or the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum.

Grand Rapids is also known as “Beer City USA” and there are dozens of breweries and craft beers to try out. And plan to treat yourself to some of the restaurants in Grand Rapids as well!

Marquette MI

Marquette is found on the Upper Peninsula. It is both on the shores of Lake Superior and at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain.

This is a great Michigan day trip for a mix of town and nature. The small town is encircled by nature, so you get the best of both worlds.

In town, you will find historic buildings that house shops, art galleries, and museums. Learn about ships at the Marquette Maritime Museum or find cool art sculptures at Lakenenland.

There are also lighthouses to photograph.

On the nature side, you can spend time hiking at Sugarloaf Mountain, discover Wright Street Falls, or swim at McCarty’s Cove or Presque Isle Park.

There really are so many things to do in Marquette MI that everyone will love.

Visiting Ann Arbor Is One Of The Best Michigan Day Trips

Ann Arbor is one of the best Michigan day trips from Detriot . It is just under an hour from the big city. This college town is a great place to spend the day exploring. There are so many things to do in Ann Arbor MI.

There are many awesome museums in Ann Arbor including the University of Michigan Museum of Art, Museum of Natural History, and the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology.

If you are traveling with children, take them to the Hands-On Museum or one of the many riverside parks. Find beautiful plants at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum.

And when you get hungry from all your exploring, you can hit up some of the best restaurants in Ann Arbor MI!

If you want to spend a weekend exploring with your family or friends, you do not have to look far for something fun to do in Michigan. You are sure to make memories in this Midwest state .

Belle Isle State Park

Tucked in the Detroit River is Belle Isle State Park. This is the perfect place to escape Detroit and relax in nature. The park is almost one thousand acres of entertainment.

Pack a picnic and bring your swimsuit for a fun day in the sun. There is a beach to chill at or if you want to get some exercise, you can bike or hike some of the trails. There is also a playground and sports fields.

If you want to get out on one of the three lakes, you can rent a boat. Take a photo next to the beautiful James Scott Memorial Fountain which dates back to 1923.

The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is a must-visit place as well. The gorgeous greenhouses hold plants from all over the world.

Visiting Belle Isle State Park is one of the most fun Michigan day trips you can have!

Frankenmuth Michigan Is A Christmas Day Trip Sure To Please

F rankenmuth is a cute, Bavarian town perfect for a romantic getaway. The charming architecture and lively atmosphere will make you feel as if you are in Germany.

Visit the Frankenmuth Historical Museum and take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Kids will love Zehnder’s Splash Village or the Frankenmuth Aerial Park, which has awesome rope courses and ziplines.

Frankenmuth is also one of the top places in Michigan to visit during Christmas . The town is home to the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, which is open year-round.

This is a perfect place to spend a Michigan day trip exploring Christmas in the Midwest.

While Frankenmuth is great during winter, Holland is one of the best Michigan day trips in the spring. This Dutch-founded town hosts an annual Tulip Time festival with millions of tulips blooming throughout town.

Visit Windmill Island Gardens to see the 250-year-old De Zwaan Windmill and pretty gardens. Head to Holland State Park for some beach time or to photograph the beautiful, red lighthouse.

The Nelis’ Dutch Village is a great place to bring the kids, but even adults will enjoy the picture-perfect Dutch theme park with farm animals, rides, demonstrations, and shops.

Holland is one of the cute beach towns in Michigan you should not skip.

Mackinac Island

If you want to step back in time, then Mackinac Island is one of the best day trips in Michigan. There are no cars on this small island. And so many things to do in Mackinac Island MI!

You will take a 15-minute ferry ride to the island and then travel by foot, bike, or horse and carriage.

As you walk the town, you will be awed by the adorable, Victorian houses. If you want to extend your stay, book a room at the romantic Victorian Grand Hotel.

History buffs will want to tour Fort Mackinac and see the historic buildings downtown. There are also a ton of restaurants in Mackinaw Island and shops to check out.

Nature lovers can explore Mackinac Island State Park and go biking, hiking, or horseback riding. You can also go canoeing or kayaking along the scenic shore.

Silver Lake State Park

Silver Lake State Park is an awesome place for thrilling recreation. Even though it is between Silver Lake and Lake Michigan, it looks almost like a desert.

All the sandy dunes create a fantastic place to ride ATVs. There is a 450-acre area for off-roading. If you don’t have your own vehicle, then you can book an excursion.

You can also enjoy the dunes on foot. There is a big beach for swimming and building sandcastles. You can rent canoes or kayaks to get out on the water.

There are also picnic tables, a playground, and a fishing pier. Such amenities make this one of the best Michigan day trips there are!

Traverse City

Traverse City Michigan is one of the best small towns in the Midwest.

It hugs Grand Traverse Bay so you can get out on the water or explore the beaches of Traverse City when you are not exploring the historic town. It is also near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

If you visit Traverse City in July, you will have a ton of fun at the National Cherry Festival. There are concerts, parades, rides, tasty treats, and a ton of other events.

If you like beautiful buildings or history, you can visit the City Opera House or the Dennos Museum Center. There are also many art galleries, shops, lighthouses, and historic homes to check out.

Fayette Historic State Park Is One Of The Best Michigan Day Trips

Visiting Michigan’s state parks is always exciting.

Fayette Historic State Park is one of the most unique Michigan day trips. This is one of the best things to do in Michigan if you love exploring abandoned places.

Found on the Upper Peninsula, Fayette was a bustling iron ore town in the mid-19th century. However, by the turn of the century, it had become a ghost town.

Today, it is a 711-acre state park with twenty historic buildings still standing. The town is found in a scenic area and the beauty of nature juxtaposes nicely with the eerieness of the empty buildings.

Along with photographing the town, you can hike the trails or relax at the beach. It is also a popular place for scuba diving. You can find artifacts underwater, but they must not be removed.

Sault Ste. Marie Is A Michigan Day Trip To A Town Split In Two

Sault Ste. Marie is found on the Michigan/Ontario border on the UP. This is a great spot to cross into Canada since the town is actually split in two on each side of the border.

On the U.S. side, learn some history at the River of History Museum, Tower of History, and Museum Ship Valley Camp. You can see some art at the Alberta House Arts Center or take a boat tour of the Soo Locks.

Drive across the international bridge to visit the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site, the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, and the Art Gallery of Algoma. You can also walk the boardwalk.

With so many options to choose from this Michigan Day Trip is one not to miss.

Pinched between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan is the small town of Charlevoix. This is a great place for a romantic Michigan getaway with beautiful Michigan wineries.

Many people could here to go boating, but even if you don’t want to spend time on the water, there are plenty of fun things to do. Biking, hiking, golfing, and surfing are all awesome outdoor activities.

Visit the Charlevoix Circle of Arts for exhibits, shows, and art classes. The Raven Hill Discovery Center is all about nature, science, and art. There are also a ton of historic houses to find.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is an absolutely gorgeous area and if you have the chance to do this Michigan day trip, you are in for a treat!

This park is named after the colorful sandstone cliffs that fall into Lake Superior. The lakeshore is 42-miles long and is incredibly photogenic with cool rock formations and beaches.

There are about a hundred miles of hiking trails where you can discover waterfalls, sand dunes, and streams. This is a fantastic place for trout fishing and birdwatching.

Kayak along the cliffs to find awesome hidden areas. There are also historic sites, including an 1874 lighthouse. In winter, you can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, or ice-fishing. And the Michigan ski resorts are the best.

This lakeshore is also a short drive to Munising, which is a great Michigan day trip in itself. This is a good place to book a boat tour or enjoy winter sports.

Leland is a cute, little fishing village between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau. Find a place to park your car and then get out and walk around.

This is a great tiny town to explore on foot and one of the coolest Michigan Day Trips.

You will find museums, art galleries, restaurants, and shops. Check out the historic Fishtown, a preserved area of fishing shanties, smokehouses, docks, and boats.

There are public beaches and nearby natural areas. Rent a boat to feel like a local. You can also visit the town during the Leland Wine and Food Festival.

Leland is also only a half-hour from the beautiful Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore which has great beaches and hiking trails.

Port Austin

Even though it is only a few square miles, Port Austin holds plenty of fun for the whole family. The is one of the best Michigan day trips for a calm and laid-back atmosphere.

Port Austin is found on Lake Huron near the tip of Michigan’s “thumb.” There are four great parks in town. Bird Creek Park is the largest. It has a splash pad for the kids as well as great fishing spots and views of the lake.

Kids will have fun mini-golfing or take them to Knoblock Riding Stable for a horseback riding excursion. Rent a canoe or kayak to paddle the Thumb Heritage Water Trail.

Port Crescent State Park is right down the highway from Port Austin. This park is a wonderful place to go camping in the summer or skiing in the winter. There are beaches and fishing opportunities.

This is surely one of the best Midwest road trips for your bucket list!

Packing List For Your Michigan Day Trips

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when on your4 Michigan road trips.. It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves are  the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery . This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when staying in one of the best Airbnbs in Illinois.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when hiking This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

There are amazing Michigan day trips to be had all over the state, whether you are in central Michigan, the thumb, or the Upper Penninsula.

There are tons of things to do in Bay City MI, and this popular town would make a terrific day trip in Michigan.

If you are looking for fun things to do in Michigan, it is not hard to find something, no matter your interests. There are amazingly beautiful state parks, lively cities, and adorable and hidden gem small towns.

Kids will have fun being hands-on with nature while couples will love walking the streets of adorable, historic towns. No matter what you do, you will have a memorable time in Michigan.

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Michigan tourist attractions

Places to Visit in Southern Michigan

Short answer places to visit in Southern Michigan:

Southern Michigan offers a diverse range of attractions, including the vibrant city of Detroit, the historic Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, charming towns like Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo, picturesque natural areas such as Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and scenic lakes like Lake Michigan. Don’t miss the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village for a glimpse into American history.

Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations in Southern Michigan

Title: Discover the Charms of Southern Michigan: Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations

Introduction: Southern Michigan, with its hidden gems and stunning landscapes, beckons visitors to explore its vibrant cities, picturesque lakes, and charming small towns. Whether you are a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast , this region offers an array of attractions that will leave you mesmerized. To help you plan your next adventure, we have curated a list of the top 10 must-visit destinations in Southern Michigan.

1. Ann Arbor – Where Culture Meets Creativity: Home to the University of Michigan and a hub for arts and innovation, Ann Arbor is a treasure trove for culture enthusiasts . Immerse yourself in the town’s rich art scene by visiting the renowned University of Michigan Museum of Art or attending a performance at one of its many theaters. Stroll along Main Street packed with trendy boutiques and cozy cafes before enjoying a delicious farm-to-table meal at one of Ann Arbor’s fantastic restaurants.

2. Detroit – The Motor City’s Revival: Detroit has transformed itself into a thriving cultural metropolis, making it an essential stop on any Southern Michigan itinerary. Explore the iconic Detroit Institute of Arts and delve into America’s automotive heritage at the Henry Ford Museum. Don’t forget to savor the city’s emerging culinary scene in neighborhoods like Corktown and Midtown.

3. Traverse City – Pure Elegance in Northern Paradise: Tucked away on Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City boasts breathtaking natural beauty combined with small-town charm . Known as one of America’s top wine destinations, make sure to indulge in wine tastings along the scenic Old Mission Peninsula or Leelanau Peninsula. Outdoor enthusiasts can revel in activities such as paddling down Boardman River or hiking through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

4. Saugatuck – Coastal Bliss Unveiled: Nestled along Lake Michigan’s picturesque coast, Saugatuck is a haven for art aficionados and beach lovers alike. Explore the vibrant downtown filled with galleries and boutiques before soaking up the sun at Oval Beach, consistently rated one of the best beaches in the United States. Opt for a romantic sunset cruise along the Kalamazoo River or embark on a dune ride adventure to complete your visit .

5. Grand Rapids – Craft Brews and Cultural Marvels: Known as Beer City USA, Grand Rapids offers a perfect blend of craft brews, world-class museums, and stunning natural vistas. Dive into the city’s thriving craft beer scene by sampling award-winning beers from renowned breweries like Founders Brewing Co. Immerse yourself in art appreciation at the Grand Rapids Art Museum or marvel at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s intricate sculptures set amidst beautiful gardens .

6. Mackinac Island – Step Back in Time: Step onto Mackinac Island, a captivating destination where cars are prohibited, and horse-drawn carriages reign supreme. Embrace the island’s timeless charm as you explore its perfectly preserved Victorian architecture, pedal along scenic bike trails encircling untouched nature, or indulge in famous fudge at one of their charming local shops.

7. Holland – A Taste of Dutch Heritage: Celebrating its rich Dutch heritage every year during Tulip Time Festival, Holland offers visitors an enchanting experience amidst vibrant tulip gardens and authentic windmills. Stroll through Nelis’ Dutch Village to immerse yourself in traditional Dutch culture or relax on Holland State Park beach while admiring sweeping views of Lake Michigan.

8. Ann Arbor-Charlevoix Trail: An Unforgettable Scenic Drive: For outdoor enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable road trip experience, embark on the Ann Arbor-Charlevoix Trail—a 230-mile scenic route connecting these two remarkable destinations. Traverse idyllic rural landscapes adorned with picturesque farms and vineyards, as well as charming towns . Discover hidden gems such as Torch Lake, Michigan’s own Caribbean escape.

9. Jackson – History Unveiled: Jackson, renowned for its rich history and significant contributions to American culture, invites visitors to wander through its beautifully preserved historic neighborhoods and experience captivating landmarks. Explore the Cell Block 7 Prison Museum to delve into the world of notorious inmates or visit Cascades Falls Park for a tranquil retreat amidst cascading waterfalls.

10. Silver Beach – Sun, Sand, and Splendor: Conclude your Southern Michigan adventure with a visit to Silver Beach in St. Joseph—a perfect destination for relaxation and family fun. Sink your toes into the soft sandy shores while taking in stunning views of Lake Michigan. Let the little ones frolic at the Silver Beach Carousel before savoring mouthwatering treats from local ice cream parlors.

Conclusion: Southern Michigan holds an abundance of unforgettable destinations spanning from cultural metropolises to serene coastal getaways and historic treasures waiting to be explored . Embark on a journey filled with arts, nature, history, culinary delights, and heartwarming experiences within this enchanting region—the

Exploring the Hidden Gems of Southern Michigan: Places to Visit and Things to Do

Title: Unveiling the Treasures of Southern Michigan: Must-See Destinations and Exhilarating Activities

Introduction: In the heartland of America lies a region brimming with hidden treasures, unrivaled nature, and captivating history. Welcome to Southern Michigan, a little slice of paradise that often goes unnoticed in travelers’ itineraries . From idyllic small towns to majestic natural landscapes, this unassuming region has an impressive array of charming attractions and exciting experiences awaiting discovery. Join us as we embark on a journey to uncover the hidden gems that make Southern Michigan an enchanting destination for all types of adventurers .

1. The Quaint Charms of Saugatuck: Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan lies Saugatuck, a picturesque town known for its artistic flair and serene ambiance. Stroll through the vibrant streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and eclectic eateries that offer delectable farm-to-table delights. Take a leisurely cruise on the Kalamazoo River or explore one of the nearby dune parks for breathtaking views and invigorating hikes. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Saugatuck promises to captivate your senses.

2. Adrenaline Rush at Silver Lake Sand Dunes: For thrill-seekers and adventure junkies, Silver Lake Sand Dunes is an adrenaline playground like no other. Rev up your engines and hit the sandy trails by renting an off-road vehicle or ATV – conquering steep hills and wind-sculpted dunes will surely get your heart pounding. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, recline on Silver Lake’s sandy shores while indulging in sunbathing or swimming in crystal-clear waters. Brace yourself for unforgettable experiences amidst this dynamic landscape.

3. Hidden Beaches Along Lake Huron: While many flock to crowded beach towns further north, those truly in the know head to the hidden beaches along Lake Huron’s shoreline. Tawas Point State Park offers pristine stretches of sandy shores, ideal for unwinding amidst nature’s serenity . Here, water enthusiasts can engage in kayaking or paddleboarding, while birdwatchers relish the opportunity to spot rare species . Don’t forget your sunscreen and beach towels as you embark on a refreshing coastal escape.

4. A Step Back in Time at Greenfield Village: Take a journey through time at Greenfield Village, an open-air museum that preserves America’s rich historical heritage from the late 18th to early 20th century. Experience the magic of walking alongside Thomas Edison’s laboratory or explore Henry Ford’s childhood home . Hop aboard an authentic Model T and enjoy a charming ride through this living history exhibit – it’s truly an immersive and educational experience for all ages.

5. Hidden Waterfalls Amidst Nature’s Glory: Prepare to be mesmerized by the hidden waterfalls scattered throughout Southern Michigan’s stunning landscapes. Tahquamenon Falls State Park boasts one of Michigan’s premier cascades – witness the breathtaking power of Upper Falls cascading down with impressive force. Explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to discover magnificent cliffs adorned with hidden gems like Sable Falls, whose delicate beauty will leave you in awe.

Conclusion: Southern Michigan may not often steal the limelight, but those willing to venture off-the-beaten-path are rewarded with unforgettable experiences in its hidden gems. From cozy small towns showcasing local artistry to thrilling adventures amidst natural wonders, this enchanting region surely offers something for every explorer . So pack your bags, fuel your curiosity, and get ready for an extraordinary trip through Southern Michigan’s captivating charms where memories are made and hidden treasures await discovery!

A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Trip: Discovering the Best Places in Southern Michigan

Title: A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Trip: Discovering the Best Places in Southern Michigan

Introduction: Planning a trip can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it comes to exploring a region as rich and diverse as Southern Michigan. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, this guide will walk you through the process of planning your perfect adventure. So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive into the step-by-step journey!

Step 1: Define Your Trip’s Focus Before embarking on any travel plan , it is crucial to determine the purpose and scope of your trip. Are you seeking outdoor adventures in beautiful national parks like Huron-Manistee or Pictured Rocks? Is urban exploration your goal, with visits to buzzing cities like Detroit and Ann Arbor? Defining your focus will help refine your itinerary and ensure you make the most of your time in Southern Michigan.

Step 2: Research Local Attractions Now that you have narrowed down your focus, start researching the best attractions that align with your interests. Be sure not to miss visiting Mackinac Island, where horse-drawn carriages replace cars and picturesque landscape awaits. Explore Traverse City’s renowned wineries or immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Grand Rapids’ art scene . By delving into online forums, regional blogs, and official tourism websites, you’ll uncover countless unique experiences waiting just for you.

Step 3: Plan Your Itinerary With a list of must-visit attractions at hand, it’s time to create an itinerary that maximizes both enjoyment and efficiency. Take into consideration factors such as travel distance between destinations while maintaining a balance between relaxation and adventure. Whether you opt for a week-long road trip or decide to base yourself in one location and explore surroundings day by day – careful planning ensures smooth transitions during your trip.

Step 4: Accommodation Selection Southern Michigan offers an array of lodging options suitable for every taste and budget. From cozy cabins nestled near the woods to luxurious hotels in bustling cities, there is something to cater to everyone’s preferences. Research various accommodation types in your chosen areas, read online reviews, and make reservations well in advance for peak seasons – a comfortable place to rest will recharge you for more experiences ahead.

Step 5: Dining Delights No trip is complete without exploring local culinary specialties. Southern Michigan boasts a vibrant food culture rich with farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and quaint cafes. Indulge in Detroit’s iconic Coney Island hot dogs or satisfy your sweet tooth with fudge from Mackinac Island. Don’t forget to sample the famous cherry treats while visiting Traverse City – think cherry pies, jams, and even cherry wine! Explore restaurant recommendations online or follow local food bloggers for insider tips .

Step 6: Have a Plan B While meticulously planning every aspect of your trip is essential, leaving room for flexibility is equally important. Weather changes or unexpected events may sometimes necessitate adjusting your itinerary on the fly. Keep alternative options handy or make a list of additional attractions nearby that can be explored if needed – this way, you’ll always stay one step ahead and maintain the spirit of adventure.

Conclusion: Planning a trip to Southern Michigan can be an exciting venture filled with remarkable experiences waiting just around the corner. By following this step-by-step guide and delving into meticulous research, you will shape an unforgettable journey tailored precisely to your desires. Allow yourself to be charmed by breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in vibrant city life, indulge in delicious cuisine – all while creating memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready for an incredible adventure through Southern Michigan!

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Southern Michigan: Everything You Need to Know

Planning a trip to Southern Michigan but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered! In this blog, we will answer all your frequently asked questions about visiting Southern Michigan. From tourist attractions to local cuisines, our detailed and witty explanation will ensure you have all the information you need for an unforgettable experience.

1. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Southern Michigan?

Southern Michigan is home to a myriad of breathtaking tourist attractions . Take a stroll through the stunning Holland State Park, where sandy shores meet picturesque lighthouses. Discover the hidden gems of Saugatuck Dunes State Park or enjoy the vibrant art scene in Kalamazoo’s downtown district. Don’t forget to visit the Henry Ford Museum and immerse yourself in American history or explore Mackinac Island’s charm with its horse-drawn carriages and Victorian architecture.

2. What outdoor activities can I engage in while visiting Southern Michigan?

Outdoor enthusiasts rejoice! Southern Michigan offers an array of exciting activities for nature lovers . Embark on hiking adventures in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or go kayaking on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted by world-class courses like The Grand Golf Club in Grand Rapids, while cycling along the scenic Kal-Haven Trail is perfect for those seeking adventure on two wheels.

3. Where can I sample traditional cuisine in Southern Michigan?

When it comes to satisfying your taste buds, Southern Michigan won’t disappoint! Indulge in mouthwatering cherry pies from Traverse City or treat yourself to delectable fudge straight from Mackinac Island’s famous shops. Don’t miss out on trying Detroit’s iconic Coney dogs or enjoying delicious fresh fish caught from one of Lake Huron’s charming fishing villages.

4. Are there any cultural events or festivals worth attending during my visit ?

Absolutely! Southern Michigan is renowned for its vibrant cultural scene and exciting festivals throughout the year. Attend the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, where millions of tulips bloom with enchanting beauty, or immerse yourself in Greek culture at the Grand Rapids Greek Festival. Music lovers shouldn’t miss the Detroit Jazz Festival or the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, which brings together incredible local and international artists.

5. What are some hidden gems that many tourists miss in Southern Michigan?

While there are plenty of well-known attractions in Southern Michigan, don’t overlook its hidden treasures ! Visit the charming town of Frankenmuth, known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” for a taste of German heritage and quaint shops. Explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’s majestic cliffs and breathtaking waterfalls, or discover Holland’s secret windmill parks for a unique cultural experience .

In conclusion, Southern Michigan offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights. From exploring historical museums to indulging in fresh seafood cuisine, this region has something to offer every traveler. So pack your bags and get ready to create unforgettable memories in beautiful Southern Michigan!

From Nature Trails to Historic Towns: Uncovering the Diversity of Southern Michigan’s Attractions

When it comes to exploring all that Southern Michigan has to offer, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice. From the breathtaking beauty of nature trails to the rich history of charming historic towns, this region is a treasure trove of diverse attractions just waiting to be uncovered. So grab your camera and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Nature enthusiasts will rejoice in the abundance of scenic trails that wind their way through the region’s lush green landscapes. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll in nature, Southern Michigan offers something for everyone. The Waterloo-Pinckney Trail, for instance, traverses over 35 miles and boasts beautiful woodlands, streams, and even a reservoir where visitors can fish or canoe. With its towering trees and vibrant wildlife, this trail is truly a paradise for outdoor lovers.

For those seeking even more natural wonders, head over to Matthaei Botanical Gardens located in Ann Arbor. This serene oasis spans over 300 acres and features gorgeous gardens with an array of flowers and plants from around the world. As you wander through the tranquil paths, you’ll forget about the bustling outside world and become immersed in the peaceful serenity that surrounds you.

Moving on from nature trails, history buffs will delight in exploring Southern Michigan’s historic towns that are bursting with old-world charm. One such gem is Dearborn – home to the iconic Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village. Immerse yourself in American history as you walk through streets lined with carefully preserved historic buildings or marvel at vintage cars at one of America’s greatest automotive museums.

Just a short distance away lies picturesque Frankenmuth – known as “Little Bavaria”. This quaint town transports visitors back in time with its traditional German architecture and warm hospitality. Discover fascinating shops filled with authentic European goods or indulge your taste buds with mouthwatering bratwursts while enjoying live polka music – it’s like stepping into a different world.

No visit to Southern Michigan would be complete without experiencing the beauty of the Great Lakes. With stunning shores that stretch for miles, these vast bodies of water offer endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Whether you choose to swim in crystal clear waters, sail along the coast, or simply soak up the sun on sandy beaches, there’s no doubt that the Great Lakes provide an unforgettable experience .

So let your curiosity guide you as you uncover the remarkable diversity of Southern Michigan’s attractions. From tranquil nature trails to captivating historic towns, this region offers a unique blend of adventure and charm. So pack your bags and set off on an unforgettable journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime!

Insider Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip: Unforgettable Experiences in Southern Michigan

Are you planning a trip to Southern Michigan and want to make sure you have an unforgettable experience? Look no further! In this blog post, we will provide you with insider tips that will help you make the most of your trip and discover unique experiences in this stunning region. So get ready to explore all that Southern Michigan has to offer !

1. Uncover Hidden Gems: While popular tourist destinations are always worth a visit, don’t forget to explore the hidden gems that Southern Michigan has to offer. Venture off the beaten path and discover charming small towns, picturesque parks, and secluded beaches. Some lesser-known places like Saugatuck Dunes State Park or Marshall Historic District can surprise you with their beauty and tranquility.

2. Embrace Outdoor Adventures: With its diverse landscapes ranging from lush forests to majestic lakeshores, Southern Michigan is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Whether it’s hiking through scenic trails, kayaking along serene rivers, or biking through charming countryside roads, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure. Don’t miss out on locations like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for breathtaking natural wonders.

3. Indulge in Local Culinary Delights: No trip is complete without savoring the local cuisine and Southern Michigan won’t disappoint food lovers . From farm-to-table restaurants serving fresh seasonal ingredients to wineries producing award-winning vintages, there’s something for every palate. Make sure to try regional specialties like pasties (a savory pastry filled with meat and vegetables) or visit one of the many breweries in Kalamazoo known for their craft beers .

4. Experience Quaint Small-Town Charm: One of the greatest joys of visiting Southern Michigan is strolling through its idyllic small towns filled with history and character. Places like Frankenmuth create a Bavarian atmosphere while offering unique shopping opportunities and delicious comfort food at world-famous restaurants. Explore the charming streets of Saugatuck or Holland and immerse yourself in their welcoming communities and vibrant arts scenes.

5. Discover Fascinating Museums and Cultural Centers: For those interested in history, art, or science, Southern Michigan has an array of captivating museums and cultural attractions . The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn is a must-visit destination, showcasing the country’s rich industrial heritage. Kalamazoo Valley Museum offers interactive exhibits for all ages, while Cranbrook Art Museum in Bloomfield Hills displays extraordinary contemporary art collections.

6. Attend Festivals and Events: Southern Michigan hosts an array of lively festivals throughout the year celebratin local culture, food, music, and traditions. From Oktoberfest celebrations in Frankenmuth to Tulip Time Festival in Holland where thousands of colorful tulips adorn the streets, there is always something happening that will leave you with unique memories from your trip.

7. Visit Iconic Landmarks: Finally, no trip to Southern Michigan would be complete without visiting its iconic landmarks. Take a tour of the stunning lighthouses dotting along Lake Michigan’s shoreline like Big Sable Point Lighthouse or climb to the top of Mackinac Bridge for breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac.

With these insider tips at hand, you are now equipped to make your trip to Southern Michigan absolutely unforgettable! Be sure to plan ahead and make room for spontaneity as well — sometimes the best experiences come from unexpected discoveries along the way. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure-filled journey through this diverse and captivating region that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime!

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THE Guide to 100+ Best Summer Things to Do in Michigan

If you’re looking to make the most of your summer in Michigan, here are the best summer things to do in Michigan and the unique sights you absolutely need to experience to enjoy the very best of the Mitten State during the hot summer months.

Get inspired and start building your own Michigan Summer Bucket List …

Take a Summer Family Vacation in Michigan

One of the best parts about living in Michigan is that we have so many great options for family vacations – you can cross the bridge and experience the wilderness of the Upper Peninsula, you can pack your sunscreen and spend time on the shores of Lake Michigan, or you can get the best of both experiences when you plan a summer family vacation on Michigan’s Thumbcoast .

Michigan’s Thumbcoast , which stretches 140 miles along Lake Huron’s shorelines, features outdoor recreational opportunities for everyone in your family. Furthermore, the area’s beach towns are brimming with indoor activities that will allow you and your children to develop your creative sides on a wet summer day.

The Thumbcoast is the ideal destination to check off your summer bucket list if you want to hike the trail systems, view the northern lights , go to a theater, climb a lighthouse, learn something new at a museum, or do all of the above.

Related: Our Family’s First Trip to Michigan’s Thumb. Here’s 11 Places We Discovered. #MittenTrip

Explore Michigan State Parks

With two peninsulas and shorelines on four Great Lakes, there’s much to see by visiting any of Michigan’s 101 state parks, from immaculate beaches to forests to historic sites. Some of the best state parks in Michigan include:

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park on the western side of the Upper Peninsula is the largest of Michigan’s state parks. Forests cover half of this park on Lake Superior, and it’s speckled with more than 90 miles of hiking trails and rivers, creating opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and much more.

Hartwick Pines State Park  is one of the biggest state parks in the Lower Peninsula and sits about 200 miles northwest of Detroit. It’s lush with white pines, and miles of trails and two lakes provide plenty of excitement for hikers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Palms Book State Park near Manistique in the Upper Peninsula is one of Michigan’s most beautiful sites. It’s home to Kitch-iti-kipi , also known as the Mirror of Heaven. Visitors can ride a short distance to this crystal-clear spring and marvel at its beauty.

Saugatuck Dunes State Park on the Lake Michigan shoreline has rolling dunes that roll more than 200 feet over Lake Michigan. The park has 13 miles of hiking trails and 2.5 miles of shoreline too.

Ludington State Park on Lake Michigan has plenty to offer — dunes, forests, lakeshore, and even a lighthouse. There are numerous places to camp and lots of chances to have fun outdoors.

Related: A Must See List for Michigan State Park Camping Adventures

Play Disc Golf

No matter your level of expertise, disc golf is an absolute blast. Disc golf courses are all laid out in unique ways, and playing them is a great way to see the best of Michigan. Some fantastic places to play include:

Hickory Hills in Traverse City is an 18-hole course that’s tucked into the woods. It offers great views, including one of West Grand Traverse Bay.

The  Silver Creek Disc Golf Park in Harvey in the Upper Peninsula is considered one of the state’s most technical and challenging. It sits almost entirely within the woods of Chocolay Park and is a must-play course for any disc golfer.

The  Tailings in Iron River provides a little bit of everything — paved trails, campgrounds, and views of Iron County — all while playing a course that sits atop a former mining area.

Earle Brewer Park in Grand Rapids is one of several courses in the city and has 36 holes on its course. The south course is a challenge for more advanced players, but it sits among some fantastic scenery in West Michigan.

Chippewa Banks Disc Golf Course in Midland is compact but beautiful. It provides a scenic view of the Chippewa River and plenty of on its 18 holes.

Related: Play Disc Golf at Hanson Hills

Enjoy Nature Near Michigan’s Big Cities

If you live in or near one of Michigan’s big cities, you might be surprised to discover the many unique ways to get out and enjoy nature nearby!

Take for example Flint Michigan . Known for its contributions to the auto industry, most people don’t know that Flint and Genesee County are full of amazing opportunities to hike, bike, kayak, and explore nature.

Some of our favorite Greater Flint summer outdoor things to do include:

• For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum
• Chevy Commons State Park
• Kayaking the Flint Watershed
• Genesee County Hiking Trails
• Applewood Estate

Related: Seize Summer Like a Local in Flint & Genesee County

Attend a Hot Air Balloon Festival

Night glows, launches, and balloons of all shapes and sizes are part of hot air balloon festivals in Michigan . These events are the perfect spots for family-friendly fun. Be sure to check out these festivals this summer:

The  Michigan Challenge Ballonfest in Howell opens with a carnival and features a massive balloon launch, balloon glow, fly-in competition, and much more.

The  Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival  in July features plenty of hot air balloons, carnival games, military demonstrations, and more. There’s also a pit stop on the first day, a competition that tests crews’ skills at balloon deflating and packing.

The Jackson Hot Air Jubilee  combines hot air balloons and family fun. This three-day festival sees many sports and special-shaped balloons participate, and there are plenty of other activities on site.

Visit Beaver Island

Lake Michigan’s largest island,  Beaver Island is a place you absolutely must visit this summer. There’s something for everyone to see and do.

You can tour the island on a bike, or ferry your car over and go for a scenic drive. On top of that, you can visit some truly unique museums, go for a stroll on the beach, or take in the breathtaking views you won’t see anywhere else.

Escape to a Nature-Lovers Paradise

Just a few hours outside the Metro Detroit hub are the quieter shores of Lake Huron along Michigan’s Thumbcoast – the perfect place to escape the frantic pace of the big city and slow down with your best friend as you enjoy a nature-lovers paradise.

Michigan’s Thumbcoast features 140 miles of coastline with several beaches, parks, and trails of all types to explore. The Blue Water region is the place to go during the summer if you enjoy hiking, bicycling, paddle boating, motorboating, fishing, swimming, or all of the above.

Related: 2 Fantastic Days of Summer Fun in Port Huron

Climb Sleeping Bear Dunes

If you’re looking for the ultimate Pure Michigan experience, head to Glen Arbor and get ready to experience one of the best summer things to do in Michigan !

Climbing the dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore can be strenuous, and there’s likely plenty of wind-blown sand in your face. But, the payoff is well worth it!

You’ll get a great view of Lake Michigan and feel a sense of accomplishment. Not to mention, you’ll have a smile on your face as you run back down. If you’re really feeling up for a journey, climb the dunes and then hike part or all of the 27-mile Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.

Related: Kayak the Sleeping Bear Dunes to Truly Experience Their Majesty

Go Sailing & Boating in Michigan

Being surrounded by the Great Lakes, you can’t help but have some fun on the water. One of the best ways to do that is to go sailing & boating. Here are some fun spots to sail to in the Great Lakes State:

Les Cheneaux Islands — This is actually a chain of 36 islands in the waters of Lake Huron. The calm waters make it a great place to sail to, and there are some great events here — an antique boat show every August fills the nearby waters with a spectrum of color.

Lake St. Clair — This is a popular spot for pleasure boaters, fishermen, and sailors alike. On your travels, you’re likely to see numerous freighters and other sailboaters enjoying a day on the water.

Big Manistique Lake — This 10,130-acre lake in Curtis Michigan connects numerous rivers and streams, making it a great spot for sailing. The lake is stocked if you want to try fishing, and there are several festivals during the year at the lake.

Grand Lake — Located near Alpena, this lake is 7 miles long and contains several islands. It’s a great trip if you want to just relax, enjoy good company, and get some great photos on the water.

Lake Leelanau — If you’re near Traverse City, this is a great lake to sail on. It’s ideal for spotting wildlife and chilling on the water. Plus, you’re close to all that Traverse City has to offer.

Visit Cascade Falls

The Upper Peninsula is filled with plenty of breathtaking waterfalls that really showcase the wonders of nature in Michigan. If you’re on the western side, Cascade Falls near Ontonagon is a must-see on your journey.

A trail to the falls offers fantastic views and plenty of chances to take nature photos. If you enjoy the gentle sounds of water running over rocks, Cascade Falls is worth stopping to see.

If you’re in the Lower Peninsula , though, check out the bustling scene at Cascade Falls in Jackson Michigan . Within Sparks Foundation County Park — also known as Cascade Park — the 64-foot falls are a manmade beauty that opened in 1932 with 25,000 people in attendance.

Open Memorial Day to Labor Day, there’s more to Cascade Falls than the water. Of the 16 falls, 11 are illuminated with 1,230 lights, and the six fountains are choreographed, offering spectacular performances daily.

Related: 21 Stunning Pictured Rocks Waterfalls Near Munising Michigan to Add to Your Bucket List

Experience Summer Events in Michigan

Summertime is the best time of year to get out and rub shoulders with your friends, family, neighbors, and complete strangers – and summer festivals and events provide the perfect opportunity to do so!

Nothing says summer like the Michigan summer events and festivals that celebrate all facets of life. And Genesee County is an awesome community full of unique summer events and festivals in Flint and beyond to attend that are worthy of adding to your 2022 Michigan summer bucket list .

Take a Drive Along US-12 Heritage Trail

One of the best summer activities is a road trip, and a drive along the US-12 Heritage Trail will give you a road trip to remember. Along the way, you’ll see monuments, innovations, wineries, and even some beaches.

Start your journey in Detroit, where there’s no shortage of space to explore.

• Travel along Woodward Ave or spend time at the Detroit Institute of Arts .
• Continue to Belle Isle State Park , where you’ll find a conservatory, nature zoo, and much more.
• Stop at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak, or head to Dearborn to the Henry Ford Museum .

As you head further west and south, you’ll pass scenic hiking trails, the quaint towns of Lenawee County , historic sites in Hillsdale County , and, eventually, the South Chain of Lakes outside Coldwater . If you keep going, you’ll end up in St. Joseph on the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Bottom Line: There’s plenty to experience on the trail, so take time to soak it all in.

Visit Graffiti Alley in Ann Arbor

If you love art, especially graffiti, you don’t want to miss Graffiti Alley . Even if art isn’t interesting to you, you’re likely to see something that makes you stop and observe.

Located on East Liberty Street in Ann Arbor Michigan , you’ll see dozens of places where artists have left their mark. It’s teeming with color, and creativity, and is the perfect spot to grab some photos for Instagram or to snap some selfies.

It’s free to visit Graffiti Alley, and what’s better than that? If you’re an artist, you may see something that inspires you and offers you a different perspective, even if it’s a small section.

Related: More Summer Things to Do in Southcentral Michigan

Spend a Day at the Detroit Zoo

As zoos go, the Detroit Zoo is a mecca in the Mitten State. There’s no better way to spend a day, and a visit to the Detroit Zoo offers fun for the whole family. Whatever your favorite animal is, there’s a good chance that the Detroit Zoo has it.

You can take the zoo’s train to the farthest points of the zoo, and then take your time exploring as you work your way back to the entrance. The Penguin Conservation Center, the Arctic Ring of Life, and the African Grasslands are just a few of the most popular habitats at the zoo.

There’s nothing that will make your inner child come to life more than seeing all the wonderful animals. A day here is definitely a day well spent.

Stroll Down the Detroit RiverWalk

If you’re looking for waterfront fun and activity, few spots beat the Detroit RiverWalk . It spans more than 3 miles in the Motor City, and there’s plenty to do.

You can keep it simple and go for a walk or a bike ride, or take in some great views of both Detroit and Canada across the river. You can also splash in several fountains to cool off on hot days or take your kids to one of the splash parks located along the RiverWalk.

It’s also a great place to stretch your legs after catching a Tigers game at Comerica Park in downtown Detroit!

Related: More Summer Things to Do in Metro Detroit

Explore Michigan Gardens

When springtime turns to summer and the weather gets even nicer, there’s no better place to spend a summer day than at one of Michigan’s botanical gardens and arboretums . They’re the perfect spots to see the work of master gardeners brighten landscapes with foliage and flowers. Some of the best gardens include:

Frederik Meijer Gardens — This Grand Rapids garden is one of the state’s most celebrated. There are three indoor conservatories and several outdoor themed gardens, including a Japanese garden.

Matthaei Gardens — Located on the campus of the University of Michigan, this garden is one of the state’s most diverse. Visitors can spend hours marveling at conservatory displays, hardwood forests, perennial gardens, and much more.

Beal Gardens — On Michigan State University’s campus is the nation’s oldest continuously operating botanical garden. It includes more than 5,000 plant species and rare and endangered plants.

Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park — On the western edge of Traverse City sits this 25-acre garden that showcases the best of plant life in Northwest Michigan.

Windmill Island Gardens — Travel to downtown Holland where the full bloom of the park’s 36 acres is a sight to behold — 100,000 tulips of different colors, summertime annuals and perennials, and so much more.

Go Kayaking on Michigan Rivers & Lakes

Kayaking and canoeing are some of the most relaxing activities you can do in Michigan when the weather is just right. Some of the best spots for kayaking in Michigan include:

Turnip Rock — This wonder sits off the shores of Lake Huron and is only accessible by kayak. You’re likely to find other kayakers around this limestone marvel, but it’s a great spot for pictures.

Lansing River — There’s plenty to see and do in Lansing, but traversing the Lansing River Trail offers a different way to enjoy the city and be at peace on the water.

Platte River — This slow-rolling river has shallow rapids that are perfect for beginners.

Huron River — This is the only County Scenic Natural River in Southeast Michigan, and it winds through five counties.

Onekama to Arcadia — This journey on Lake Michigan is peaceful and takes you past parts of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

The Detroit Canals — This is a sort of hidden gem for kayaking, and there are lots of spots that connect to the Detroit River.

Watch Michigan Fireworks

Nothing screams summer more than a fireworks display, especially around the Fourth of July. Some of the best spots to watch fireworks in Michigan include:

Bay City — Grab a seat on a Saginaw Bay Beach, and let the show begin.

Beaver Island — Sitting on the beach by the Beaver Island Harbor Light, you’ll have a great view of many other fireworks displays, including those in Mackinaw City, Petoskey, St. Ignace, and Charlevoix.

Bois Blanc Island — Depending on where you are, you may be able to see displays in the distance from Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island, and St. Ignace.

Lexington — Few spots are better for watching fireworks than at the tip of the stone pier in Lexington Harbor, located in Michigan’s thumb.

Mackinaw City — Once you find a spot on a sandy beach, marvel at the fireworks display with the Mackinac Bridge as your backdrop. You have a good chance to see other displays in the distance too.

Au Gres — On the Lake Huron shoreline, in the middle of Saginaw Bay, there’s a stone pier that juts out into the water and is the perfect place to watch a fireworks show.

Play at a Mic higan Water Park or Splash Pad

Whether you want to get away for the day or take the family on vacation, Michigan has plenty of cool water parks to visit. They’re not only great places to cool off but also great places where everyone in the family can find something to do. Here are a few of our favorite spots to splash and play!

Avalanche Bay — Located in Boyne Falls, this is one of the state’s largest indoor water parks. It has everything from waterslides to lazy rivers to chill pools. If you really want a thrill, try the Big Couloir, which shoots you down at 38 feet per second, takes you on a 360-degree loop, and drops you into a pool.

Action Wake Park — Located in Hudsonville, this is the only full-size cable park for fans of wakeboarding. The park offers a thrilling experience for everyone, whether you’re a beginner or a wakeboarding pro.

Turtle Cove Family Aquatic Center — Located in Belleville, this park has two waterslides and a lazy river. Kids will delight in the 300-gallon dumping bucket in the kiddie play area. There’s also a big lap pool that welcomes visitors of all ages.

Double JJ Resort — This is a great spot to cool off and get wet with a variety of thrilling rides in Rothbury Michigan. Try the Miner’s Plunge, a slide that drops riders into a huge bowl to spin round and round before splashing to the bottom. Or try your luck at Thunder Canyon’s white waters or the tallest indoor waterslide in the state, the Rustler’s Gulch.

Red Oaks Waterpark — There are plenty of thrills, spills, and chills in Madison Heights. Float down the 990-foot lazy river, enjoy the Terrific Tides wave pool, or try a waterslide. Kids can enjoy a Splash and Play area and a Soak Station too.

Hawk Island County Park — In Lansing Michigan , this park is home to a sandy beach on a 30-acre lake, and lifeguards are on duty when they’re available. Also, the park has a Splash Pad with 15 features to cool you off. Both are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, weather permitting.

Eat Michigan’s Best Pasties

If you’re traveling in the Upper Peninsula this summer, you absolutely have to stop for a pasty. These delicacies are simple — a mix of beef, potatoes, and rutabagas that’s baked in a flaky golden crust of dough. Some of the best pasty shops in Michigan include:

The Hut Inn — This Calumet establishment dates back to 1952 and is considered one of Michigan’s best. It can ship pasties all over the nation but also offers a drive-up window where you can pick up a fresh pasty on your travels.

Toni’s Country Kitchen — Located in Laurium, this place is known for serving large pasties with generous portions and an extra-flaky crust.

Kaleva Cafe — Way up in Hancock is Kaleva Cafe, which serves a mean pasty with coleslaw on the side. It offers baked goods to give you the perfect dessert for your meal too.

Suomi Home Bakery & Restaurant — Across the way from Hancock in Houghton, this restaurant serves large, traditional pasties but also offers mini pasties. If you’re looking for a breakfast spot, Suomi serves a traditional Finnish breakfast as well.

Pasty Corner — This Iron River establishment offers both traditional and specialty pasties, all of which are packed full of flavor.

The Pasty Oven — Located in Quinnesec, this place offers traditional pasties and several specialties, including breakfast and pepperoni pizza pasties.

Related: More Summer Things to Do in the Upper Peninsula

Attend a Michigan County Fair

Few things signal that summer is here quite like a county fair. Regardless of where you go in Michigan, there are lots of great county fairs where you can soak up the atmosphere and have some fun. Keep cool with a beverage, and grab your favorite fair food — hot dogs, cotton candy, and french fries.

You can take part in some fun activities you won’t find every day too, such as pie-eating contests, rubber chicken throwing contests, song and dance contests, and even animal judging. No matter where you are, you’ll definitely have fun experiencing one of the best summer things to do in Michigan.

Want more Michigan summer festival fun? Don’t miss the best summer music festivals in Michigan !

Tour Michigan Wineries

In the last several decades, Michigan has become a major player in the U.S. wine scene. In fact, there are more than 100 wineries in the state. Here are some of the best Michigan wineries you must visit this summer:

Black Star Farm — This Suttons Bay farm is billed as a wine and culinary destination for good reason. There are two wineries and three tasting rooms here, as well as a cafe and upscale dining. Fans of Riesling and chardonnay will be delighted, but it’s also known for its red wines.

Chateau Grand Traverse — This is Northern Michigan’s largest commercial winery and features a year-round tasting room with affordable wine flights. Sampling wines while munching on something on the patio is a great way to spend an afternoon.

45 North Vineyard & Winery — Another Leelanau Peninsula winery that’s well known for white wines, this winery bottles nearly two dozen different wines, ciders, and fruit drinks.

Lemon Creek Winery — Located in Berrien Springs, this winery has tasting rooms at two different locations and several varieties of affordable wines. The specialty here is cabernet sauvignon, including a cabernet ice wine.

Go Fruit Picking

In the summertime, there are so many great fruit-picking places to visit in Michigan. It’s fun for the whole family and a wonderful way to stock up on homemade fruit. Some of the best Michigan fruit picking spots include:

Stovers Farm Market — In Berrien Springs, this U-pick spot offers raspberries, strawberries, and cherries in early summer, as well as apricots, blackberries, and blueberries in late summer.

Jazz Blueberry Farm — Located in Shelby Michigan, this blueberry farm offers a chance to pick as many blueberries as you desire, even buckets full!

Rowe’s Produce Farm — Located in Ypsilanti, this U-pick farm is well known for its strawberries, which can be turned into all kinds of sweet treats at home.

AJ’s Berry Farm — Another great U-pick farm in Lachine Michigan, AJ’s has an abundance of juicy strawberries in the summer.

There are lots of great berry farms, but another fun summer activity is foraging for wild berries. Juneberries can be found in June and usually on the edges of forests.

In August, take a walk in the woods to see if you can find huckleberries or wild blueberries. Keep your eyes peeled for wild strawberries as well, which grow in midsummer on runners low to the ground.

Explore the Kal-Haven Trail

Stretching more than 30 miles between Kalamazoo and South Haven, the Kal-Haven Trail offers a little bit of everything for those who love being outside. It’s perfect for bikers, hikers, and runners alike and winds through woods, farmland, rivers, and streams.

Along the way, you can stop at exhibit panels that discuss the history of the area. Midway down the trail is the village of Bloomingdale, which is a great place to stop, rest, and get a meal. If you love traversing trails in the summer, the Kal-Haven Trail is one you need to put on your bucket list this year.

Visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Located in Paradise, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to what are arguably Michigan’s most famous waterfalls and one of the state’s most awesome natural wonders. The centerpiece of the state park is the waterfalls, which are split into the Upper and Lower Falls.

The Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the Midwest and water cascades at a rate of 50,000 gallons per second. Four miles downstream is the Lower Falls, a series of five smaller falls that cascade around an island.

If you love Michigan waterfalls , this should be in the top spot on your summer bucket list. They’re really something to behold, and you’ll be in awe of their raw power.

Related: Explore Ocqueoc Falls – Michigan’s Largest Waterfall in the Lower Peninsula with Year-Round Access

Go Whitewater Rafting

Rafting in raging rapids can be quite the experience and is a great way to stay cool during the summer season. Two of Michigan’s best whitewater rafting spots are:

Northwoods Adventures — Located in Iron Mountain , there’s something for everyone here. You can take a solo trip through some of the state’s most dangerous rafting waters or take a family-friendly trip.

Bear River Whitewater Park — The Bear River in Petoskey is said to offer new experiences every day, depending on conditions. There aren’t any manmade obstacles, so it’s the perfect spot for rafting.

If whitewater rafting is too intense for you, check out these other rafting spots in Michigan:

Big Bear Adventures — Located in Indian River, this is the perfect spot for rafters who don’t want something too tough or too tame. The Challenging Mid-Section Trip offers the best of both worlds.

Argo Park Livery — This spot in Ann Arbor is good if you want to stay close to Detroit. Rafting here is fun and affordable, and it’s just challenging enough to still be thrilling.

Gallup Park Livery — Another Ann Arbor spot, Gallup Park Livery is perfect for more experienced rafters and kayakers.

Bike Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is the ultimate summer destination in Michigan with so much to see and do. But if you really want a unique experience, hop on a bike and get ready for 8.2 miles of the most scenic bike ride you’ll ever take.

When you hear the waves crashing, see the vastness that is Lake Huron, and behold the Mackinac Bridge, you’ll realize how magnificent this ride is. Make your way through downtown Mackinac Island and hear the clip-clap of horse hoofs.

You can also stop at British Landing to take in the views of the bridge, bike along Pontiac Trail, and visit one of the many scenic parks to see wonders like Arch Rock . This is a great way to make some unforgettable summer memories.

Related: More Things to Do on Mackinac Island

Visit Michigan’s Adventure

If you had to pick one thing to do on your summer bucket list, it’s hard to pick against this Muskegon wonderland. You’ll find more than 60 attractions, rides, and slides, as well as seven roller coaster rides and tons of other fun for the family.

From the time you arrive at Michigan’s Adventure , you’ll have a permanent smile. If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, head to Wildwater Adventure , which features plenty of waterslides, three wave pools, and the Funnel of Fear, one of the most beloved attractions that sends riders in a raft spinning and twirling around a funnel.

Play on Lake Michigan Beaches

Lake Michigan beaches are arguably the most beautiful in the state. With its shorelines reaching from the Upper Peninsula’s southwest corner to the southwest state line of the Lower Peninsula, every Lake Michigan beach town offers great views and plenty of activity.

Saugatuck — This city is home to Oval Beach , which is recognized as one of America’s best beaches. The white sand, rolling dunes, and vistas make it a one-of-a-kind getaway.

South Haven — There are more than a dozen beaches here, many of which are close to downtown. If you love climbing dunes, hiking, and soaking up the sun, this is the place to be.

Grand Haven — With towering dunes, green trees, and white sands, Grand Haven is the definition of picturesque. Make your visit even more special by camping and enjoying your own private section of beach for swimming and sunbathing.

Muskegon — This city is the place to find adventure on a beach vacation. There are a dozen beaches, parks, campgrounds, plenty of amenities, and state parks. It’s the total package!

Traverse City — With more than three dozen beach areas, Traverse City is the ultimate freshwater swimming destination. You can spend time building sandcastles and watching sunsets around the city too!

Related: More Michigan Beaches to Enjoy

More to Explore This Summer in Michigan

We’re so excited to get out and explore this amazing state that we call home this summer!

What are your favorite summer things to do in Michigan? Did we miss your favorite beach or overlook a hidden gem ? Tell us about it!

• Summer Things to Do in the Upper Peninsula
• Summer Things to Do in Northern Michigan
• Summer Things to Do in West Michigan
• Summer Things to Do in Mid-Michigan
• Summer Things to Do in Michigan’s Thumb & Bay Area
• Summer Things to Do in Southwest Michigan
• Summer Things to Do in Southcentral Michigan
• Summer Things to Do in Southeast Michigan

A lover of all things Michigan. Will never get tired of exploring the unique places across the state and meeting all the awesome inspiring people that are here. Always ready for a new Michigan adventure! Owner, Director, and Chief Explorer!

• 6 of the Most Overlooked Towns in Michigan

Michigan is fantastic to explore with its waterways, natural landmarks, historical sites, and the Great Lakes. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, big towns offer many activities but don’t overlook the smaller ones. They can surprise you with their charm and numerous fun things to do. Here are six of the most overlooked towns in Michigan.

Algonac is a fabulous town to visit, especially in the summer. Right on the St. Clair River, this town offers a perfect getaway during the warm months. With cool breezes along the waterfront, you can sit and watch the freighters go between the United States and Canada. Yes, you can see to Canada from Algonac. The Algonac State Park is lovely to see birds and other animals. It also has an archery range and trap shooting range. And if you love biking, the Bridge to Bay Trail passes through the park. The Algonac Clay Historical Museum explains how Algonac is the birthplace of power boating and ChrisCraft. The must-do event is the Pickeral Tournament over the 4th of July weekend. This festival has fishing contests, boat parades, amusement rides and games, and one of the best fireworks displays in Southeast Michigan.

Armada is a small rural town 50 minutes north of Detroit filled with tree-lined streets and historic homes, a beautiful Memorial Park, and near the Macomb Orchard Trail. The downtown has several places to stop in to get a bite, including the Kozy Korner Saloon and the Creamery on Main where you can get a giant ice cream treat to share or keep for yourself. All year, family fun can be had at Blake’s Orchard and Cider Mill. The children’s play area and petting farm will delight the little ones. Plus, it is a sight to watch the apple cider-making process. In the warmer months, you can pick seasonal fruits and vegetables like strawberries, apples, and pumpkins or enjoy the many on-site festivals, like the Lavender or Sunflower festivals. Before you go, stop into Blake’s Tasting Room to try the latest hard cider. Other things to do in Armada are to visit the Armada Flea Market and the Armada Fair. The Armada Fair has amusement rides, tractor pulls, animals, and more fun than you can enjoy.

Leland, a small town on the shores of Lake Michigan in the Leelanau Peninsula, has plenty to offer visitors in this overlooked town. Leland is extremely picturesque, with the blue waters of Lake Michigan, a crystal-clear river, and the Carp River waterfall in the center of the historic Fishtown. This 1800s historic site has several fishing shanties for you to discover and enjoy the Fishtown Heritage Festival. Leland has plenty of areas to explore, like the historic district and the harbor, where you can do birding, strolling on the Leland River Walk, or experience the unique Leland Tree House.

In addition to the beautiful scenery, this is a fabulous wine area. The August Leland Wine and Food Festival is a fantastic event to sample the area’s cherry wine. You can enjoy a fabulous weekend getaway with all the numerous wineries and craft breweries. Also, don’t miss the Great Lakes Water Festival, where your family can enjoy food, art, and music. Other activities to experience are taking a scenic ferry trip to the Manitou Islands or driving 30 minutes to the scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes.

New Buffalo

New Buffalo is another small town on the shores of Lake Michigan, a little over an hour away from Chicago. From water sports, the Four Winds casino resort, art galleries, plenty of dining and brewery options, and nature parks, New Buffalo is a great small town for a summer vacation. Galien River County Park offers a unique view of the Great Lakes in its 86 acres of wild marshland. You can walk through the park on elevated walkways or climb the 60 feet tower to get a birds-eye view of the entire marsh. Some other water activities you can enjoy in New Buffalo are sailing excursions, paddling on the Galien River, or renting a boat or jet ski from Oselka Marina. More activities can be found on land by exploring New Buffalo’s Railroad history at the Train Museum on land or enjoying the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. New Buffalo is in a prime location of Michigan’s premier wine region for you to take tours and wine tasting throughout the area. Come for a weekend or a week in this lovely beach town in Southwest Michigan.

Northville is another small town in Michigan that is often overlooked. It has a lovely, walkable downtown filled with art galleries, theaters, boutique shops, breweries, and wonderful restaurants. Make sure to look out for the little fairy doors throughout the town. The Mill Race Village is a great area to explore. Run by the Northville Historical Society, it features late 1800s homes, a school, a church, a gazebo, and a blacksmith shop covering 11 acres. The Guernsey Farms Dairy offers visitors quality dairy products, including some of the best ice cream in the area and a restaurant on-site. During the fall, Northville has two cider mills for you to explore. Visiting Three Cedars Farm will put you up close with apples, pumpkins, and a fun barnyard playland. Since 1873, Parmenter’s Cider Mill has been offering visitors caramel apples, apple butter, and apple cider. There is even a winery and brewery for the adults visiting Parmenter’s Cider Mill.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has some wonderful small towns, but one is often overlooked due to its closeness to Mackinac Island. St. Ignace is a great small town, especially in the summer. There are many family activities to enjoy, especially if you love the outdoors with the beaches, nature trails, and water activities like kayaking on the Straits of Mackinac or scuba-diving shipwrecks. The Garlyn Zoo Wildlife Park has native and exotic animals in a well-cared-for, animal-friendly environment where you can feed many beautiful animals. Other places to visit are Castle Rock, the Mystery Spot, or bike or walk along the North Country Trail. There are also numerous places to explore if you want to take a day trip from St. Ignace, like the Cut River Bridge, the Soo Locks, Oswald’s Bear Ranch, and Tahquamenon Falls.

From nature parks, historic villages, water sports, cider mills, cherry orchards, wineries, and craft breweries to the rugged beauty of the extensive shoreline along the Great Lakes, which offers epic sunsets and sunrises, Michigan’s small overlooked towns deliver big getaway adventures. No matter what time of the year, these downtowns put out the red carpet for visitors, offering fantastic dining options, art, culture, festivals, and enough charm to make you want to extend your vacations. On your next vacation, consider visiting one of these overlooked towns in Michigan; you won’t be disappointed.

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40+ Memorable Things to Do in Upper Peninsula Michigan

T his Upper Peninsula Michigan list is by no means all-inclusive but instead features the highlights of what there is to do in each area on the EAST SIDE of the peninsula and the things that I always recommend to friends.

We tend to stick to the free/inexpensive things like hiking, visiting lighthouses, waterfall chasing, rockhounding, and geocaching .

That being said there are some really cool things in the U.P. that are worth paying for like Oswald’s Bear Ranch, Boat Tours, and Castle Rock.

Be sure to see all the things to do in Michigan in winter including Upper Peninsula Michigan! 

40+ Things to Do in Upper Peninsula Michigan –

The ultimate guide for vacation fun, along lake superior – look for lake superior agates.

They’re colorful and beautiful.

The agates are treasures to behold. Look for them along the beaches in Lake Superior.

Learn more about Lake Superior agates and how to find them along Lake Superior shores from this site.

Check out recommendations for Lake Superior beaches that are great for agate hunting.

Things to Do in St. Ignace, MI

Historic. Romantic. Picturesque. St. Ignace is all of these and more. Discover why the locals say, “It is better above the bridge” when you visit this U.P. city.

Be sure to include these attractions in your visit.

Castle Rock

Take your Instagram photos from Castle Rock, with amazing views of Lake Huron and Mackinac Island as your background.

Curio Fair Tower Climb

For just $1, you can climb a wooden hexagonal tower that will give you breathtaking views of Mackinac Bridge.

Clydes Drive-in for lunch

For the best burgers in town, head out to Clyde’s. Drive-In.

Bridge View Park

Sit on a bench or walk along the coastline or look through the telescope as you enjoy the impressive view of Mackinac Bridge and the waters that connect Lakes Michigan and Huron.

A Visit To Seney National Wildlife Reserve

Spot birds, animals and colorful flowers at the Seney National Wildlife Reserve. The park has a Jr. Ranger program for the younger kids so be sure to check it out.

Kayak the Manistique River 

Starting at Germfask, MI, kayak the Manistique River that goes through the Seney National Wildlife Reserve and keep a lookout for bald eagles, turtles, and other animals.

Things to do in Munising, MI

Go hiking. Go biking. Go fishing. Go camping. Go snowmobiling. Go boating. Do all these and more in Munising, Michigan.

Pictured Rocks

The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore are a beauty to behold. See mother nature’s grand creations of sandstone cliffs and sand dunes.

With 17 waterfalls in Alger County, you can have many adventures discovering some of them. Stop in at the Munising Visitors Center to pick up a waterfall map. Our favorite falls include Alger, Munising, and Scott.

Pictured Rocks Boat Ride

From the water, get up close to miles of Pictured Rocks as you take an enjoyable cruise or thrilling ride on a jet boat .

Lighthouses

Visit and explore the lighthouses of the coastal city of Munising.

Things to do in Christmas, Michigan

Celebrate Christmas 365 days a year in Christmas, Michigan. Swing by Christmas and stop in at Santa’s Workshop and don’t forget to take photos in front of the Roadside Attractions

Au Train Beach and River

Swim in the Au Train Beach and kayak or fish at the Au Train River. Au Train, just West of Munising on Hwy 28, has a very sandy beach on Lake Superior, the park is just west of the Au Train river. Can’t miss it.

Bay Furnace Historic Site

Learn about the iron industry as you visit the ruins of an old blast furnace that used to create pig irons around 1870s.

Things to do in Grand Marais, MI

Have a grand vacation at Grand Marais. There are many grand activities to do: swim, bike, kayak, fish, hike, and many more.

Hot spot for agate hunting

For all you agate hunters, Grand Marais coastlines will be paradise for you!

Gitche Gumee Agate and History Museum

Gitche Gumee Museum is heaven for agate enthusiasts – be amazed at the various kinds of agates on display at the museum and buy souvenirs from the gift shop.

Things to do at Tahquamenon Falls, MI

See one of the biggest waterfalls east of Mississippi – the Tahquamenon Falls or “Root Beer” Falls.

Boat and Train Ride

Discover the beauty of nature at the Tahquamenon Falls and River by boat or by train.

Things to do in Newberry, MI

Any time of the year is the best time to visit Newberry. Go snowmobling or dog sledding during the winter and fishing and hiking during the warmer months.

Oswald Bear Ranch

Take your whole family to take photos with a cute bear cub at the Oswald Bear Ranch, one of the biggest bear-only ranch in the US.

Things to do in Paradise / Whitefish Point, MI

Whitefish point lighthouse.

Climb one of the oldest (and haunted) and most important lighthouses in the Lake Superior, the Whitefish Point Lighthouse, and enjoy the magnificent views.

Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

At the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, marvel at many artifacts of what’s left of ships that met their end in Lake Superior.

Things to do in Marquette, MI

There are so many things your family can do on your trip to Marquette. Whether on land: hiking, hunting, and biking; on water: fishing, paddling, and surfing; or even on snow: snowmobling, skiing and snowshoeing.

Black Rocks | Presque Isle State Park

If you’re hungry for an adrenaline rush, cliff diving from Black Rocks and splashing in cold water will surely satisfy you.

At Presque Isle State Park, there are so many wonderful activities you can do whatever the season is: hiking or cross country skiing or having a picnic or just enjoying nature around you.

Lakenland Sculpture Park

At Lakenland Sculpture Park you will see how pieces of junk have been turned into beautiful masterpieces.

Saykllys Chocolate

Saykllys has been satisfying the sweet tooth of locals and tourists of the Upper Peninsula since 1906. Satisfy your sweet tooth with this Upper Peninsula favorite when you visit.

Snowbound Bookstore

When in Marquette, the best place to buy your books is Snowbound.

Peter White Library

Can’t stay away from books even if you’re on vacation? Your book haven in Marquette will be Peter White Library, near Lake Superior.

There are 11 waterfalls in Marquette County, many of which are great for families with pets!

Learn history and be amazed at nature’s beauty as you visit Marquette County’s lighthouses.

Things to do in Manistique, MI

Enjoy the many beautiful colors of the “Emerald City,” Manistique – emerald green Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring); yellow, orange, red of leaves in the fall, and white snow during the winter season.

Seul Choix Pointe Lighthouse

When you visit Manistique, this is the lighthouse you have to visit – the park area is awesome.

DISCOVER Mural

Part of the Power of Words Project, be in awe with the beauty of the “Discover” mural and the talent of the artists in this Instagram-worthy artwork.

Kitch-iti-kipi

Michigan’s biggest natural spring, there is a raft that takes you out to the middle of the spring to see the fishes all the way to the bottom. It’s pretty sweet.

Fayette Historic State Park

Known in the past for its operations of iron-smelting, the Fayette State Park and Historic Townsite is now a historic village with old buildings and exhibits that will tell you stories of the town’s glorious past.

Things to do in Naubinway, MI

At the northernmost point of Lake Michigan, catch the wonderful Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, see amazing wildlife, and participate in exciting outdoor activities.

Hiawatha Pasties

If you’re in Upper Peninsula you gotta have a pasty. One you shouldn’t miss is right in Naubinway, from Hiawatha Pasties.

Cut River Bridge Roadside Park

Located along US Highway 2 in Hendricks Township, Mackinac, the Cut River Bridge is a cantilevered steel deck bridge. You can go under the bridge and down the stairs to the water.

A great family activity to do while you’re in the Upper Peninsula is a visit to the many animals of family-owned Garlyn Zoo, amidst beautiful pine trees.

Snowmobile Museum

For all of you snowmobile enthusiasts, there’s actually a museum of different models, colors, and sizes of snowmobiles in Naubinway.

Things to do on Mackinac Island

Established in 1895, Mackinac Island State Park is the first state park of Michigan. While in the car-free island, historical sites will educate you and nature’s artwork will leave you in awe.

How to take a day trip to Mackinac Island

Take a day trip for great hiking and take pictures of the famous Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf.

There are so many things to do that I’ve written numerous articles about it which you’ll find here:

10 Reasons to Stay at the Grand Hotel Mackinac Island

Free Things To Do On Mackinac Island

Discover the Best Ways to Reach the Paradise of Mackinac Island

Discover Michigan’s Playground – Your Ultimate Guide to What To Do On Mackinac Island

Discover the History and Charm of Pine Cottage, a Mackinac Island Bed and Breakfast

Dog Friendly Mackinac Island

What To Pack For Mackinac Island

30+ Unforgettable Things to do on Mackinac Island

17 Insider Tips For Visiting Mackinac Island

10 Fun Facts About The Grand Hotel Mackinac Island

Things to do in Sault Ste Marie, MI

You’re going to have so much fun as you join activities that are so interesting and attractions that are so fascinating at Sault Ste Marie, MI.

Soo Locks Viewing Platform

You have to see the Soo Locks! You will surely admire this engineering wonder that links Lake Superior and Lake Huron.

Soo Locks Boat Tours

Don’t just see the Soo Locks, experience them. Take a boat tour and go through the Soo Locks, going up and going down between the two great lakes.

Tower of History

For a 360 degree view of Sault Ste Marie, climb up the 292 stairs (or take the elevator) to the top of the tower. The bottom level is a museum that tells the history of the place.

Museum Ship Valley Camp

This freighter-turned-museum houses exhibits including an Edmund Fitzgerald lifeboat and aquariums with fish of the Great Lakes.

Wow, that is enough to keep you busy for an extended vacation to the Upper Peninsula Michigan. Be sure to pin this page or bookmark it. I’ll add more recommendations as I discover them!

Pin Things To Do Upper Peninsula Michigan To Pinterest

The Most Unique Places to Stay in Michigan

A list of 25 of the most unique places to stay in Michigan, from city centers to lakeshores to treehouses in the forest.

Michigan is right smack in the middle of the Great Lakes region, with 3,288 miles of shoreline and a handful of large cities and college towns. It’s a perfect destination for a family vacation or a couple’s retreat. There are so many unique places to stay in Michigan and great outdoor and indoor activities for everyone! From waterparks to castles to remote island rustic lodges, you can choose any type of adventure for your trip.

We’ve pulled together the 25 most unique places to stay in Michigan to help you start brainstorming and planning your vacation. So get ready to explore this midwest state and everything it has to offer!

Get out and explore what Michigan has to offer!

Planning a fun getaway for a family, a small group of friends, or a couple needs just a few simple things to make it memorable. Plan some fun activities to explore the city or town once you’ve booked a cool or unique place to stay. A Let’s Roam scavenger hunt is one of the best ways to do that! It’s the perfect introduction to a new place or a fun way to explore new parts of an area you’ve been to before.

This list covers 25 of the most unique places to stay in Michigan. Whether you’re searching for a hobbit house, a yurt in the middle of nature, or a beautiful lakeside resort, you’ll find a fun fit here!

1. Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast

On the cliffs of Lake Superior, 25 miles north of Marquette, you can book a stay at the Big Bay Point Lighthouse . This retreat is one of the few resident lighthouse inns left in the United States, and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There are five different rooms in the lighthouse tower. Enjoy the views from indoors or head out and explore the beautiful natural surroundings. Snowshoe, hike, or find a quiet spot for a picnic blanket outside and enjoy the remote nature.

2. Detroit Foundation Hotel

Located in the historic Detroit firehouse, this hotel highlights the history of the building while incorporating the most modern amenities. Guests can utilize the on-site podcast studio or bring along their four-legged friends. The location is central to many of Detroit’s most popular attractions. Rent a bike and go on a brewery tour or visit the nearby aquarium or yacht club (the largest in the United States.) Explore the city in a new way with the scavenger hunt, “ Roll Through Motor City ” and don’t miss the Apparatus Room for Midwest flavors and incredible cocktails. 

3. The Inn on Ferry Street

In midtown Detriot, you can step back in time and stay in one of four Victorian homes that have been renovated and turned into a hotel. This neighborhood was upper-middle class in the late 1800s, and most of the buildings are now owned by the Detroit Institute of Arts. If you want to explore the museums of Detroit, this is the perfect landing spot, and the hotel itself feels like a historical museum. Check out the “ Midtown Groove ” hunt while you’re in the area and explore more of Motor City’s cultural hotspots.

4. Weber’s Boutique Hotel

Skip the big-name chain hotels when visiting the college town of Ann Arbor and check out this family-owned hotel, Webers . There’s live music every night, and the restaurant on site is an Ann Arbor standard serving up prime rib and Maine lobster. Guest rooms have all the comforts of home, plus you can enjoy the saltwater pool and sauna. When you’re ready to go out and explore, you can head out on the nature trails of the adjacent park or try out a local scavenger hunt .

5. Thunder Bay Resort

This Bavarian Lodge provides a few unique experiences for guests to make your getaway memorable. The resort is located in Thunder Bay County in Northern Michigan. The resort has an elk reserve on the property and offers carriage and sleigh rides to view the Rocky Mountain elks while serving up snacks and wine tastings. Participate in one of the murder mystery weekend events, including Friday night appetizer and dessert receptions, elk viewing, breakfasts, and a weekend of detective work to try and solve the mystery. In the summer months, you can take boat tours or play a round on the golf course. 

6. Tree House Ridge Resort

Have you ever dreamed of living in a treehouse or at least spending the night in one? The Tree House Ridge Resort has vacation rentals that are built up in the trees. There are ten unique buildings that are self-contained and approximately 500 square feet each. Each unit has a large balcony (some with an outdoor fire pit!), a cozy fireplace, and everything you need for a wonderful stay. Everything was designed and built by a father-son duo after hours of dreaming and planning. 

7. Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island is one of the best hotels in Michigan. Stay in a lakeside room with a balcony and views of the Mackinac Bridge. The hotel first opened in 1887 and is now a National Historic Landmark. Enjoy afternoon tea in the parlor, or just relax in one of the rocking chairs outside on the world’s longest porch with views of Lake Huron. This beautiful destination constantly makes the list of the top resorts in the Midwest. 

8. DeTour Reef Light House

While there are a few lighthouses that have been turned into inns and bed and breakfasts, this lighthouse provides a unique experience where visitors get to be the lightkeepers for a weekend. It’s a pretty rustic experience because the underwater power cable was damaged, so you have to bring your own drinking water and everything you’ll need, but you’ll get to experience the lighthouse in an incredibly private way. 

9. Earl Young’s Mushroom Houses

In Charlevoix, a collection of Mushroom Houses was created by Earl Young. He was a unique designer because he didn’t use blueprints, and he created homes that just worked with the landscape without having to move it around. These iconic structures have wavy eaves and cedar-shake roofs. The interesting homes resemble hobbit houses. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about them, but a few can be rented to stay in as well. Experience these interesting structures first-hand. 

10. The Henderson Castle

In Kalamazoo, you can book a stay at the Henderson Castle which was built in 1895. It originally belonged to Frank Henderson, one of the city’s most successful businessmen early on. His wife inherited a plot of land on the western edge of Kalamazoo, and he built this giant home. After they lived there, the property had multiple owners. It was featured in three different movies and on the Discovery Channel. The current owners bought and renovated it in 2011, and now it’s open for guests. Relax in the outdoor hot tub or enjoy the incredible food they prepare onsite. There’s a high tea service daily, so you’ll feel like royalty!

11. Rock Harbor Lodge

Experience one of the least visited National Parks in the U.S. and book a stay at the Rock Harbor Lodge . The only way to get here is a seaplane or boat since the property is located on an island in Lake Superior. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the Great Lakes region and the incredible wildlife that lives here. Take a break from wifi, cars, and all the loud noises, and bask in the nature and wilderness on the island. It’s a great fishing destination, but there’s plenty to do to make up for the lack of modern amenities on the island. 

12. El Moore

El Moore has created sustainable lodging right in the heart of Detroit. Stay in the rooftop cabins built on top of the building with private balconies and spectacular views of downtown Detroit. All the design decisions were made to use 80% less energy and produce 80% less waste than a typical hotel. It’s the perfect blend of modern and historic with original hardwood floors and geothermal heating and cooling. Get inspired by their sustainability goals while enjoying an incredibly comfortable stay. The building is shared with residents, so you’re bound to feel more like a local.

13. Fayette Furnace Hill Lodge

On the Garden Peninsula off the southern part of the Upper Peninsula, you can explore what’s left of a once-booming iron town. Furnace Hill Lodge is a home in the state park that has a kitchen, bathroom, and room for up to ten people to stay. Using this as your home base, you can explore the historic area that has over a dozen buildings still standing. You’ll get a chance to see what life was like in the 19th century. 

14. Black Star Farms at Sutton’s Bay

Take advantage of this opportunity to stay at one of the best wineries in Michigan at Black Star Farms . Just a 15-minute drive from Traverse City, this vineyard has an equestrian-inspired inn with ten rooms. Enjoy a private yoga class followed by a sweat session in the sauna, or take a hike along the waterfront of Traverse Bay. It’s a perfect spot for a romantic getaway or a trip with friends to sample wines and enjoy the scenery. 

15. The Inn at Harbor Shores

Stay right on the shores of Lake Michigan in St. Joseph at the Inn at Harbor Shores . With a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course on the property and a full onsite full-service spa, there’s plenty on land to keep visitors occupied, but the water activities are the real attraction. From fishing charters to canoes, the Inn offers many fun activities to get you out on the lake. 

16. Canopy by Hilton

In downtown Grand Rapids, you can stay at a hotel that feels like it was made for Instagram—the Canopy by Hilton . It’s right on the city’s Ale Trail, which connects some of the 80 breweries in the city. Grand Rapids is known as “Furniture City,” so you’ll find all kinds of interesting pieces in this hotel. The rooftop bar is the perfect place to hang out after a day of adventures. Learn more about the city’s history and what makes it stand out with a Grand Rapids scavenger hunt .

17. Great Wolf Lodge

Sometimes you just want to take a vacation where the focus is all on fun and play. The Great Wolf Lodge is a popular destination for families and couples looking to enjoy the indoor waterpark year-round. There are a few different indoor pools and waterslides. Properties are located all over the country, but there’s a spot in Traverse City. Take advantage of the arcade and fun activities and events that are constantly going on! 

18. Palmer House

Stay in a home designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright in Ann Arbor. The Palmer House is a vacation rental that sleeps up to six people. The home is a multilevel brick home with a design based on the equilateral triangle. In addition to the main house, guests can use the Tea House. The property covers two acres of private woodland, so it’s a lovely place to get away and enjoy this architectural masterpiece and a part of Americana. 

19. Sea Suites Boat and Breakfast

Want to test out boat living? Stay at the Sea Suites Boat and Breakfast , Michigan’s first of its kind. Located in Saugatuck, you’ll stay onboard a docked boat with your own cabin. The sky deck is 105 feet so you can enjoy life on the water with all the comforts of the shore just steps away. Your hosts will have all kinds of recommendations for the best restaurants, beaches, hikes, breweries, and wineries in the area. 

20. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

In Traverse City, they’ve turned the state’s largest mental hospital into a mixed-use space with shops, galleries, and a few Airbnb and vacation rentals. The hospital was built in the 1800s with the idea that “beauty is therapy.” When the hospital shut down, developers couldn’t let this gorgeous building go to waste. The Kirkbridge suite is a great option for groups with 2,700 square feet over two levels and can sleep up to ten people. It’s perfect for family gatherings with a living room and community space to enjoy. 

21. Nahma Inn

Are you brave enough to stay in a haunted hotel? The Nahma Inn is a year-round hotel on the Upper Peninsula. It was built in the early 1900s, and one room is said to be haunted by Nell. There are several stories, but everyone agrees that the spirit is Nell Fleming or Miss Nell. The Bay de Noquet Lumber Company founder, Charlie Good, had this building completed and brought his beau, Miss Nell, to the property. She is thought to be watching for him from the second-floor windows. Book a stay there and see for yourself. 

22. Old Harbor Inn

The Old Harbor Inn is located in the small town of South Haven, where the Black River meets Lake Michigan. This hotel has a variety of rooms and suites, but the most unique is the Caboose Suites. These 1920s train cabooses were renovated and turned into rooms you can rent. Located at the train depot, it’s perfect for families with kids. The Pomeroy is a riverfront suite that is located in the old weigh station, which is also a unique option to stay. 

23. Roam Inn

One of the coolest outdoor spots in Michigan is the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Visitors take kayak tours of the picturesque rocks and waterfalls dumping into Munising Bay. The Roam Inn is located in an old lumber baron’s home, and the guest suites upstairs have balcony views of the water. Explore the beautiful nature in this part of the state and then have a beautiful and comfortable room to return to at the end of the day to recharge.

24. Art House Airbnb

While many unique vacation rentals are available in Michigan, this colorful space will stick out amongst the competition. Uta hosts guests in a space filled with art from local artists. This 100-year-old house is filled with culture and vintage finds, making it super unique. Utilize the shared kitchen and dining space to cook meals, or hang out in the backyard around the fire pit and enjoy the exterior art pieces. Get inspired and surround yourself with some original pieces. 

If you want something with a little more space, utilize the “unique” filter on Airbnb to see what else is available in the area you’re searching.

Curious about other gems like this one throughout the state? Check out our “ Top 14 Most Unforgettable Airbnbs in Michigan. “

25. Michigan State Park Yurts

State parks in Michigan have amazing campgrounds—some offer options other than tent camping. Stay in a yurt and enjoy a bit more comfort while still having unlimited access to the outdoors. Whether you want to enjoy biking, hiking, fishing, or relaxing, the yurts are the perfect escape. Check out Muskegon State Park or Porcupine Mountains Wilderness for two of the most popular spots.

Closing Thoughts on Unique Places to Stay in Michigan

Unique hotels come in all shapes and sizes. They can add a little something extra to your vacation with unique amenities or experiences. While we can’t list all the vacation rentals and boutique hotels in Michigan, this will give you an idea of some of the incredible experiences you and your family can enjoy in the Wolverine State. There are so many beautiful state parks, beaches, lake views, and cool cities to explore while you’re there!

Frequently Asked Questions

Michigan has everything, from historic buildings that have been transformed into hotels to remote lodges where visitors can enjoy a rustic experience. Fun, exciting properties are located all over.

When searching for unique places to stay in Michigan , you can check vacation rental sites and utilize their filters. Local tourism websites and social media are also great for ideas.

Cool Michigan hotels include a castle in Kalamazoo, rooftop cabins in Detroit, and a lighthouse on the lake. Whatever kind of trip you plan, you’ll find a fun spot to stay in Michigan.

Michigan is surrounded by lakes. Stay at the rustic Isle Royale Park, or Mackinac Island for something fancier. Lake Michigan’s east shore has many resort towns that each offer their own flavor.

Michigan has a variety of things to explore, from small college towns to Motor City, Detroit. Each has its own flavor, so it depends on what activities you want to do. Check out activities from Let’s Roam to explore.

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40 best places to live in Michigan for 2024

Okemos, troy lead the list.

Ken Haddad , Digital Managing Editor

Do you live in one of Michigan’s best places?

Niche released their annual rankings of the best places to live in the U.S., and for every state and metro area, including for Michigan .

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The list is curated using data points based on crime, public schools, cost of living, job opportunities, and local amenities, according to Niche .

---> 4 Michigan cities ranked among 2024 best places to live

The list includes Michigan cities and townships, and even some neighborhoods, ranked as overall places to live.

Here’s how Michigan places ranked on the 2024 list:

• Beverly Hills
• Huntington Woods
• Bloomfield Township
• Northville Township
• Grosse Pointe Farms
• East Grand Rapids
• Eastgate (Grand Rapids neighborhood)
• Grosse Pointe Park
• Eastown (Grand Rapids neighborhood)
• Forest Hills (Kent County)
• Rochester Hills
• Grosse Pointe Woods
• Larkin Township (Midland County)
• Fulton Heights (Grand Rapids neighborhood)
• Pittsfield Township
• Grosse Pointe
• Farmington Hills
• Grosse Pointe Shores
• Orchard Lake
• Bloomfield Hills
• West Bloomfield Township
• Oakland Township
• Ottawa Hills (Grand Rapids neighborhood)
• Plymouth Township
• Canton Township
• Pleasant Ridge

You can check the full list here.

Here’s how the rankings looked for just Metro Detroit in 2023.

---> Related: Michigan home ranked among top US vacation rentals of 2024

Copyright 2024 by WDIV ClickOnDetroit - All rights reserved.

About the Author

Ken Haddad has proudly been with WDIV/ClickOnDetroit since 2013. He also authors the Morning Report Newsletter and various other newsletters, and helps lead the WDIV Insider team. He's a big sports fan and is constantly sipping Lions Kool-Aid.

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