On the lookout for one of the best locations to go to in Michigan? Discover this thrilling and numerous state with this insider’s information to one of the best issues to do in Michigan by an area. Michigan is a favourite trip vacation spot for nature lovers, photographers, adventurers, excessive sports activities lovers, and anybody on the lookout for an unforgettable expertise.
The Nice Lake State attracts guests from round America and Canada. From the north shore of Lake Michigan to the Motown and Motor Metropolis heritage of Detroit, there are numerous causes to go to Michigan.
Finest Locations to Go to in Michigan
These are the perfect locations to go to in Michigan as really helpful by Michigander Sherry Trautman who was born and raised domestically. If you’re on the lookout for road trip ideas, add these locations in Michigan to your journey. This publish has been up to date by The Planet D for 2023.
1. Detroit
You can’t have a listing of one of the best issues to do in Michigan and never embody the Motor Metropolis of Detroit. Detroit is Michigan’s largest metropolis and has much more to supply than simply automobiles and Motown (though these are fairly cool too). Detroit has a cool artwork scene with the Detroit Institute Of Arts Museum and the Heidelberg Venture simply to call a couple of.
In the event you do go to Detroit you don’t want to overlook the museums. From the Motown Museum and the Detroit Historic Museum to the Henry Ford Museum, you possibly can study all about what Detroit was like in its heyday and a go to to Corktown and the East MArket will give an excellent look into the town’s tradition.
If you wish to study extra about all the nice issues to do in Detroit, make certain to take a look at our in-depth article right here. Learn extra: 21 Best Things to Do in Detroit Michigan
The place to Keep in Detroit
- The Marriott at the Renaissance Center is situated immediately on the Individuals Mover making it a superb central location. Situated in one of many 7 towers of the Renaissance Centre, this can be a nice location in Detroit.
- Doubletree Suites by Hilton – We loved our keep right here in Fort Shelby, a historic district on the practice station. The Fox Theatre and Detroit Opera Home are close by, and a few of the space’s notable landmarks embody Masonic Temple and Ambassador Bridge.
2. Charlevoix
Do you know you possibly can see your personal little slice of Hobbiton in Michigan? Charlevoix isn’t solely an excellent place to make a base in Northern Michigan, however additionally it is residence to the distinctive mushroom homes designed by famend architect, Earl Younger.
Situated 4 hours north of Detroit, a go to to Charlevoix was one in all our favourite issues to do within the decrease peninsula. Its picturesque setting makes it among the finest romantic getaways in Michigan.
Begin by taking a guided tour of the gorgeous houses that resemble mushrooms, seek for Petosky stones at Fisherman’s Island State Park and Lake Michigan Seashore, and take a tour of Citadel Farms, one in all Michigan’s premier historic sights. This fort was in-built 1918 by then Sears, Roebuck & Co-president, and provides slightly slice of Europe within the coronary heart of Michigan. There’s an intricate mannequin railroad and hedge maze. This can be a stunning cease on any go to to Michigan. Learn extra: Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix – All Hobbits Welcome to Michigan!
3. Calm down on Mackinac Island
There’s a motive why Mackinac Island tops our greatest locations to go to in Michigan. It’s such an idyllic island vacation spot for adventurers, dreamers, and lovers.
No automobiles are allowed on the island and since horse-drawn carriages, strolling, and bicycles are the one modes of transportation on the island, you’ll really feel your physique and thoughts slowly chill out. An ideal thought is to go horseback driving on the island.
Shut your eyes for a second and picture the soothing sounds of waves lapping in opposition to the rocks, the mushy “clop, clop” sound of horse-drawn carriages slowly passing by, and the heat of the solar in your face.
Located between the Higher Peninsula and Decrease Peninsula of Michigan within the Straits of Mackinac, Mackinac Island is residence to stunning sunsets, artwork exhibits, and countless alternatives for water actions. It’s like an island escape on the mighty Lake Huron. Earlier than taking the ferry over to the Island, cease in at Bridge View Park to take a photograph of the long-lasting Mackinac Bridge. It’s the fifth-longest suspension bridge on the planet. Take a look at 8 Reasons You Must Visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
The place to Keep on Mackinac island
An ideal place to remain is The Grand Hotel. This historic grand resort has been welcoming company since 1887 and has been named one of the best resort by the likes of Conde Nast and Journey and Leisure. See reviews on TripAdvisor
Issues to do
- Lease a bicycle because the island is eight miles in circumference
- Climb the 207 stairs up Citadel Rock (sure, I counted!) to see the well-known Arch Rock and beautiful views of Lake Michigan.
- Study concerning the island’s historical past whereas touring Fort Mackinac (and in case you are fortunate, you may get to fireplace the cannon!)
- Go to the gorgeous Butterfly Home
- Lease a kayak to get pleasure from beautiful, seldom-seen views of the island and the Straits of Mackinac.
- Indulge your candy tooth on creamy Mackinac Island Fudge.
- Tour the long-lasting Grand Lodge and its majestic gardens.
4. Grand Rapids
If you’re into microbrews or beer normally Grand Rapids is a spot you don’t need to miss. Situated on the banks of the Grand River not removed from Lake Michigan, Grand Rapids has greater than 80 Craft Breweries and quite a few awards and you’ll quickly discover out why they’ve nicknamed Grand Rapids “Beer Metropolis USA”.
If beer isn’t your factor Grand Rapids additionally has some implausible artwork galleries and purchasing. You don’t need to miss the Grand Rapids Artwork Museum or the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, each deserve a go to in your subsequent journey to Michigan. Children gained’t be disregarded both with a go to to the John Ball Zoo.
If you’re on the lookout for outside actions, make certain to paddle alongside the Grand River Heritage Path, the 41-mile waterway is an outside lover’s playground. And historical past buffs will get pleasure from The Gerald Ford Presidential Museum.
For a enjoyable day with the entire household, head out to Michigan’s Journey, the state’s largest amusement park with curler coasters, water parks, and family-friendly rides.
5. Traverse Metropolis
Traverse Metropolis is ripe (pun meant) for glorious wine tasting, kayaking, biking, exploring, and indulging in all issues cherry. The biggest metropolis in northwest Michigan, Traverse Metropolis is situated on the southern tip of Grand Traverse Bay and is a must-stop on a Northern Michigan highway journey.
The Cherry Capital of the World and its 5 surrounding counties produce forty % of the annual tart cherry crop in the US. Whereas visiting Traverse Metropolis, snap a enjoyable photograph in entrance of the World’s Largest Cherry Pie Pan, get pleasure from an ice cream flight at Moomers, and embark on a tall ship journey. In the event you go to in July, the Nationwide Cherry Pageant shall be in full swing. This enjoyable Michigan competition attracts over 500,000 guests yearly! Traverse Metropolis’s cherry blossoms bloom in Might, providing glorious pictures alternatives whereas tasting wine on the Leelanau and Outdated Mission peninsulas.
Excursions and The place to Keep
Uncover the spooky aspect of the town by touring the deserted state psychological facility and steam tunnels on the Village at Grand Traverse Commons, one of many largest historic preservation and adaptive reuse redevelopments within the nation. This 1.5 hour ghost tour let’s you discover traverse metropolis at evening as you cease at a few of the common sights.
- This condo in Traverse Metropolis has two bedrooms, two baths and sleeps 6. There’s parking, and it’s strolling distance of downtown Traverse Metropolis, with all of the pleasant eating places and outlets. Check it out on VRBO
- Sugar Beach Resort Hotel situated immediately on the seashore of East Grand Traverse Bay.
Cool Truth: In 2009 TripAdvisor named Traverse Metropolis the #2 small city journey vacation spot within the US and it has been named one of many High 10 Locations to retire within the nation.
6. Uncover Shipwrecks and Fossils in Alpena
Alpena sits on the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary in Lake Huron. Do you know there are over 200 shipwrecks on this sanctuary? Whereas visiting Alpena, be sure you take an exhilarating glass-bottom boat tour to view a number of sunken wrecks all through Thunder Bay. It’s an unforgettable expertise!
The Alpena area additionally provides excellent climbing, stunning biking trails, exploring, and kayaking alternatives at Island Park, Besser Pure Space, and Rockport State Park. Learn extra at Fun and Unique Things to do in Northern Michigan
7. Frankenmuth – Fried Hen and Christmas Wonderland
As a phrase of warning, Frankenmuth, Michigan, can simply steal your coronary heart. This charming Bavarian-themed city is residence to the well-known Holz Bruke-covered bridge, horse-drawn carriage rides, and tantalizing sausage, taffy, and fudge outlets. For a singular expertise, guide a pretzel rolling class on the Bavarian Inn or embark on a riverboat tour on the family-owned Bavarian Belle.
Frankenmuth is one in all Michigan’s prime vacationer sights and a part of the six communities that make up the Nice Lakes Bay area. A Hallmark film or two has even been filmed in Frankenmuth due to its christmas theme.
Your journey to Frankenmuth isn’t full till you’ve handled your self to Zehnder’s well-known fried chicken or shopped for handmade ornaments at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas retailer. And ensure to cease on the Frankenmuth Historic Museum to study concerning the fascinating historical past of the realm. You gained’t depart the seven-acre retailer empty-handed as 50,000 trims and items will tempt you at each flip!
8. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a busy park with glorious waterfalls. One seems to be like a mini Niagara Falls. I might see us sticking round for a day or two for climbing, swimming and easily having fun with the surroundings. There have been lots of people visiting the Falls. There are two entrances, an higher and decrease falls.
This cease on our greatest locations to go to in Michigan was part of our scenic drive by means of the Lake Superior Circle Tour – Ultimate Two Week Itinerary. We drove from the Canadan border by means of Whitefish Level and Grand Marais.
The higher is the bigger and extra stunning of the 2, however the decrease had an choice to take a ship or go for hikes so they’re each a must-stop. Three are 40 miles of scenic trails to go climbing by means of so spend a day and benefit from the nice open air.
Grand Marais makes for an excellent base to discover Tahquamenon Falls and Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore. Extra on that under.
9. Rockport State Park
If you’re feeling adventurous, spend a few hours at Rockport State Park trying to find the expansive rock quarry and engaging bat hibernaculum. It’s also possible to discover and produce residence uncommon Devonian fossils courting again 400 million years!
Situated simply north of Alpena, Rockport State Parks spans 4,237 on the shores of Lake Huron. Go climbing to seek out the sequence of sinkholes and hold a watch out for the Devonian Interval fossils. This can be a nice park for climbing and biking. Plus it’s recognized for its darkish skies.
10. {Photograph} Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore is without doubt one of the most picturesque locations to go to in Michigan. Situated on the south shore of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Higher Peninsula it’s a summer season and winter playground. Snowmobiling, cross-country snowboarding within the winter, climbing, and kayaking in the summertime supply breathtaking views of the majestic sandstone cliffs and untouched seashores.
There are roughly 100 miles of climbing trails to discover to get pleasure from a peaceable commune with nature. Within the winter this can be a common spot for cross-country snowboarding.
In the event you go to Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore through the winter season, a number of frozen waterfalls are price climbing or snowshoeing a number of miles. You may even go mountaineering as pictured rocks have a few of the finest mountaineering within the nation. It’s also possible to discover the breathtaking Eben Ice Caves situated in Eben Junction, simply 20 miles southwest of Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore.
11. Sand Dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes Nationwide Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes Nationwide Lakeshore is a must-see whereas visiting Michigan. Situated in Michigan’s decrease peninsula on the shores of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes Nationwide Lakeshore is simply 30 miles from Traverse Metropolis. The dunes themselves rise over 150 toes above the shores of Lake Michigan and climbing to the highest is certainly price it. Maybe one of the vital scenic and numerous views of the dunes is Pierce Stocking Drive situated close to Empire, Michigan.
You’ll have the chance to {photograph} huge sweeping dunes, climb an extremely steep dune and embark on scenic hikes, together with the Sleeping Bear Heritage Path, which follows the shoreline of Lake Michigan and provides some beautiful panoramas. When you are visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes Nationwide Seashore and the encircling space, contemplate driving south on M-22 to see Level Betsie, one in all Michigan’s most stunning lighthouses.
The place to Keep
- To discover sleeping bear dunes, this vacation rental is situated simply tone weblog from Empire Seashore on Lake Michigan within the historic small city of Empire. See it on VRBO.
- Sleeping Bear can be situated simply 40 minutes from Traverse Metropolis. A great place to remain in Traverse Metropolis at Sugar Beach Resort Hotel situated immediately on the seashore of East Grand Traverse Bay.
- This condo in Traverse Metropolis has two bedrooms, and two baths, and sleeps 6. There’s parking, and it’s strolling distance of downtown Traverse Metropolis, with all of the pleasant eating places and outlets. Check it out on VRBO
12. Rafting Journey in East Jordan
Rafting, tubing, and kayaking followers will love the clear, fast-moving rapids of the East Jordan river. Views of the towering pine timber are breathtaking with every flip and bend within the river. Rafting down the river with Jordan River Outfitters after a recent snowfall is a cold but stunning and exhilarating winter expertise.
The Jordan River is situated on the northwestern a part of the decrease peninsula and takes you thru the untamed wilderness the place chances are you’ll spot beavers, otters, white-tailed deer, and maybe the elusive bald eagle.
13. Sand Dunes of Silver Lake
If heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping motion is your thought of a implausible trip, contemplate including a dune buggy journey in Silver Lake to your Michigan trip itinerary. Upon arriving, you’ll discover the city feels alive, nearly vibrating with vitality and pleasure.
Adrenalin followers can hire jeeps or buggies to crest and rush down the towering dunes overlooking glowing Silver Lake. For a shorter, family-friendly dune expertise, embark on an exhilarating dune experience with an area tour firm.
14. Midland’s Document-Breaking Cover Stroll
For a singular Michigan expertise, go to the Nation’s Longest Cover Stroll within the Nice Lakes Bay Area of Michigan. Situated at Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest in Midland, this 1400-foot-long cover stroll weaves by means of a purple pine forest.
Open year-round, uncover what it’s wish to wander among the many treetops and stroll suspended 40 toes above the bottom. Whereas visiting Midland, cheer on the Loons throughout a rousing baseball sport or discover the Tridge, a three-way wood footbridge providing a chicken’s eye view of the Chippewa and Tittabawassee rivers.
It’s situated 30-minutes northwest of Saginaw and two hours from Detroit.
15. Calm down and Discover East Tawas
Tawas Level State Park is a implausible place to go to throughout all 4 of Michigan’s seasons. The hotter climate months supply alternatives to kayak, paddleboard, bike, camp, chill out on the seashore or meander alongside the Saginaw Bay Birding Path. Throughout winter, clamp some crampons onto the only of your boots and discover the Sandy Hook Nature Path paralleling Lake Huron. Tawas Level Lighthouse’s vibrant purple brick can be a putting distinction in opposition to glowing white snow.
Downtown East Tawas provides glorious boutique purchasing and eating on Newman Avenue. Wander the boardwalk across the close by marina for views of luxurious boats bobbing within the water and waves cresting on Lake Huron. As you stroll, seize a Pronto Pup, a surprisingly crispy corn canine on a stick for a enjoyable afternoon snack.
16. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Among the best locations to go to in Michigan if you would like a extra distant journey is the Higher Peninsula’s Porcupine Mountains. Situated on the western tip of this space of Michigan, the Porcupine Mountains is the outside adventurer’s vacation spot of alternative.
With over 60,000 acres of wilderness you possibly can sort out climbing trails that take you to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and if you happen to go to within the winter snow shoeing and cross nation snowboarding are on the menu.
Whichever approach you determine to discover the Porcupine mountains, climbing, hopping on the biking brails, or paddling you’ll be positive to understand the sweetness that surrounds you on this a part of Michigan. Be sure to don’t miss the Lake of the Clouds, it was our favourite a part of the Porcupine Mountains.
17. Holland
One factor you’ll find if you find yourself one of the best locations to go to in Michigan is that a variety of them are Quirky little cities. Holland undoubtedly matches this description.
Situated not removed from Grand Rapids, Holland was based by Duch Individuals and is nicknamed the “Tulip Metropolis”. Holland undoubtedly celebrates its Dutch heritage. You’ll really feel like you’ve got stepped again in time with Duch-inspired structure and even a 250-year-old windmill (DeZwaan) that has been imported from the Netherlands in The Duch Village.
No go to to Holland could be full with out vising the Windmill Island Gardens. Strolling by means of the gorgeous gardens is particularly memorable in case you are there within the spring through the Tulip Time Pageant when over 100,000 tulips are in bloom all through the backyard. It’s fairly a sight to see.
18. Isle Royale Nationwide Park
For a really off-the-beaten-path expertise within the far north of the Higher Peninsula, make your approach to the remoted Isle Royale Nationwide Park.
Situated in Lake Superior, Isle Royal Nationwide Park is simply accessible by boat or floatplane and provides backcountry climbing and tenting by means of its north woods forest. It’s the largest island in Lake Superior with loads of outside recreation and nature actions. Isle Royal, there are many outside actions for hikers, kayakers, and canoeists and there’s scuba diving right here as effectively.
19. Ann Arbor
The center of Ann Arbor is its charming downtown space, crammed with boutique outlets, scrumptious eating places, and vigorous bars. The Ann Arbor Palms-On Museum is an interactive museum that’s excellent for households with children, because it provides hands-on displays and actions that train guests about science, expertise, and extra.
It’s additionally residence to the College of Michigan. Because of the coed inhabitants. The listing of leisure actions right here is countless. Take a tour of the gorgeous campus and take a look at the museums and galleries, together with the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology and the College of Michigan Museum of Artwork.
Ann Arbor is residence to a thriving craft beer scene, with quite a few breweries and taprooms to select from. Take a tour of a brewery or go to a taproom to pattern a few of the finest beers within the area. The Kerrytown District is the historic Market district that’s excellent for purchasing in boutiques. The Ann Arbor Farmers Market is a well-liked vacation spot in Kerrytown for locals and vacationers alike. The market options all kinds of recent produce, baked items, and different merchandise from native farmers and artisans.
Discover vineyards, get pleasure from performing arts, dance the evening away within the many nightclubw. In the event you’re fortunate you get to observe sports activities occasions on the Michigan stadium, one of many largest within the state.
20. Lansing
A go to to Michigan wouldn’t be full and not using a go to to its capital, Lansing. Heat climate and breathtaking view of the nice lakes await. Go to the Michigan State Capital constructing. This Nationwide Historic Landmark was is without doubt one of the first capital buildings within the US to characteristic a forged iron dome.
Lansing feels very numerous and dynamic due to its large pupil inhabitants. The town has one thing for everybody each young and old. Begin by exploring the capital constructing or study extra concerning the historical past of Michigan on the Michigan Historical past Heart, a museum devoted the early European explorers.
The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum is devoted to Outdated American modes of transportation from an outdated steam engine to basic automobiles.
21. Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo has extra to supply than its historic title may recommend. The town is residence to Western Michigan College and provides countless alternatives for journey seekers. Well-liked sights for guests right here embody the Kalamazoo Valley Museum which is stuffed with attention-grabbing exhibitions on science, expertise, and historical past. Its hands-on displays make it a singular expertise for the entire household.
A cease at The Nature Heart The middle is well-maintained and with a number of flowers. A stroll by means of the backyard may be very calming expertise due to the sounds of singing birds and water flowing.
Go to the Kalamazoo Insitute of Arts. The institute boasts a formidable assortment of thought-provoking items by American artists and world wide.
23. Bay Metropolis
Bay Metropolis is a picturesque city situated on Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. It is without doubt one of the six communities that make up the Nice Lakes Bay Area. We visited through the tall ships competition and we extremely suggest it. However there are many issues to do in Bay metropolis from touring the USS Edson. This battle ship is docked full time within the harbor. Even in case you are not a historical past buff, the tour is attention-grabbing due to the guides.
A go to to the historic Regent Theater is a should and ensure to go crusing to discover the gorgeous coast.
Map of the Finest Locations to Go to in Michigan
Fall in love with Michigan
So there you’ve got it. These are my favourite locations to go to in Michigan. If you’re visiting Michigan, be sure you get out of Detroit and see all of the cool sights that the Nice Lake State has to supply.
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