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In search of the perfect locations to go to in Michigan? Discover this thrilling and various state with this insider’s information to the perfect issues to do in Michigan by a neighborhood. Michigan is a favourite trip vacation spot for nature lovers, photographers, adventurers, excessive sports activities fanatics, 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 various causes to go to Michigan.
Greatest Locations to Go to in Michigan
These are the perfect locations to go to in Michigan as beneficial 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 put up has been up to date by The Planet D for 2023.
1. Detroit

You can’t have a listing of the perfect 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 vehicles and Motown (though these are fairly cool too). Detroit has a cool artwork scene with the Detroit Institute Of Arts Museum and the Heidelberg Undertaking simply to call a couple of.
Should 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 may be taught all about what Detroit was like in its heyday and a go to to Corktown and the East MArket will give a terrific look into the town’s tradition.
If you wish to be taught extra about all the good issues to do in Detroit, be certain that 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 positioned immediately on the Individuals Mover making it a very good central location. Positioned 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 number of the space’s notable landmarks embody Masonic Temple and Ambassador Bridge.
2. Charlevoix

Do you know you may see your personal little slice of Hobbiton in Michigan? Charlevoix will not be solely a terrific place to make a base in Northern Michigan, however it’s also house to the distinctive mushroom homes designed by famend architect, Earl Younger.
Positioned 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 probably the greatest romantic getaways in Michigan.
Begin by taking a guided tour of the attractive properties 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 fortress was in-built 1918 by then Sears, Roebuck & Co-president, and affords slightly slice of Europe within the coronary heart of Michigan. There may be an intricate mannequin railroad and hedge maze. It is 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 cause 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 vehicles 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 calm down. An awesome 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 smooth “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 house to stunning sunsets, artwork reveals, 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. Try 8 Reasons You Must Visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
The place to Keep on Mackinac island
An awesome place to remain is The Grand Hotel. This historic grand resort has been welcoming company since 1887 and has been named the perfect 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 gorgeous views of Lake Michigan.
- Study in regards to the island’s historical past whereas touring Fort Mackinac (and if you’re fortunate, you may get to fireside the cannon!)
- Go to the attractive 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 Resort and its majestic gardens.
4. Grand Rapids

If you’re into microbrews or beer generally Grand Rapids is a spot you don’t wish to miss. Positioned 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 will not be your factor Grand Rapids additionally has some implausible artwork galleries and procuring. You don’t wish 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 received’t be overlooked both with a go to to the John Ball Zoo.
If you’re on the lookout for outside actions, be certain that 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 supposed) for wonderful wine tasting, kayaking, biking, exploring, and indulging in all issues cherry. The biggest metropolis in northwest Michigan, Traverse Metropolis is positioned on the southern tip of Grand Traverse Bay and is a must-stop on a Northern Michigan street 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. Should you go to in July, the Nationwide Cherry Competition will probably be in full swing. This enjoyable Michigan competition attracts over 500,000 guests yearly! Traverse Metropolis’s cherry blossoms bloom in Could, providing wonderful pictures alternatives whereas tasting wine on the Leelanau and Previous Mission peninsulas.
Excursions and The place to Keep
Uncover the spooky facet 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 number of the fashionable sights.
- This condo in Traverse Metropolis has two bedrooms, two baths and sleeps 6. There may be 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 positioned 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 Prime 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, make 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 affords excellent mountain 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 Rooster and Christmas Wonderland

As a phrase of warning, Frankenmuth, Michigan, can simply steal your coronary heart. This charming Bavarian-themed city is house to the well-known Holz Bruke-covered bridge, horse-drawn carriage rides, and tantalizing sausage, taffy, and fudge outlets. For a novel expertise, e-book 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 because of 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 be taught in regards to the fascinating historical past of the world. You received’t depart the seven-acre retailer empty-handed as 50,000 trims and presents will tempt you at each flip!
8. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a busy park with wonderful waterfalls. One appears like a mini Niagara Falls. I might see us sticking round for a day or two for mountain 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 the Lake Superior Circle Tour – Ultimate Two Week Itinerary. We drove from the Canadan border by 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 mountain climbing by so spend a day and benefit from the nice open air.
Grand Marais makes for a terrific 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 looking for the expansive rock quarry and engaging bat hibernaculum. You may also discover and convey house uncommon Devonian fossils relationship again 400 million years!
Positioned simply north of Alpena, Rockport State Parks spans 4,237 on the shores of Lake Huron. Go mountain climbing to search out the collection of sinkholes and preserve a watch out for the Devonian Interval fossils. It is a nice park for mountain climbing and biking. Plus it’s recognized for its darkish skies.
10. {Photograph} Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore is likely one of the most picturesque locations to go to in Michigan. Positioned 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, mountain climbing, and kayaking in the summertime provide breathtaking views of the majestic sandstone cliffs and untouched seashores.
There are roughly 100 miles of mountain climbing trails to discover to get pleasure from a peaceable commune with nature. Within the winter this can be a fashionable spot for cross-country snowboarding.
Should you go to Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore throughout the winter season, a number of frozen waterfalls are price mountain climbing or snowshoeing a number of miles. You may even go mountain climbing as pictured rocks have a number of the finest mountain climbing within the nation. You may also discover the breathtaking Eben Ice Caves positioned 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. Positioned 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 unquestionably price it. Maybe probably the most scenic and various views of the dunes is Pierce Stocking Drive positioned close to Empire, Michigan.
You should 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 affords some gorgeous panoramas. While you’re visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes Nationwide Seashore and the encompassing 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 positioned simply tone weblog from Empire Seashore on Lake Michigan within the historic small city of Empire. See it on VRBO.
- Sleeping Bear can be positioned simply 40 minutes from Traverse Metropolis. A superb place to remain in Traverse Metropolis at Sugar Beach Resort Hotel positioned immediately on the seashore of East Grand Traverse Bay.
- This condo in Traverse Metropolis has two bedrooms, and two baths, and sleeps 6. There may be 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 bushes 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 positioned on the northwestern a part of the decrease peninsula and takes you thru the untamed wilderness the place it’s possible 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, virtually 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 trip with a neighborhood tour firm.
14. Midland’s File-Breaking Cover Stroll
For a novel Michigan expertise, go to the Nation’s Longest Cover Stroll within the Nice Lakes Bay Area of Michigan. Positioned at Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest in Midland, this 1400-foot-long cover stroll weaves by a crimson 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 recreation or discover the Tridge, a three-way picket footbridge providing a hen’s eye view of the Chippewa and Tittabawassee rivers.
It’s positioned 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 provide alternatives to kayak, paddleboard, bike, camp, calm down 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 vivid crimson brick can be a hanging distinction in opposition to glowing white snow.
Downtown East Tawas affords wonderful boutique procuring 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 finest locations to go to in Michigan if you would like a extra distant journey is the Higher Peninsula’s Porcupine Mountains. Positioned 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 may deal with mountain climbing trails that take you to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and in the event you go to within the winter snow shoeing and cross nation snowboarding are on the menu.
Whichever manner you resolve to discover the Porcupine mountains, mountain climbing, hopping on the biking brails, or paddling you may be certain to understand the sweetness that surrounds you on this a part of Michigan. Ensure you don’t miss the Lake of the Clouds, it was our favourite a part of the Porcupine Mountains.
17. Holland

One factor you can find if you find yourself the perfect locations to go to in Michigan is that a variety of them are Quirky little cities. Holland positively matches this description.
Positioned not removed from Grand Rapids, Holland was based by Duch Individuals and is nicknamed the “Tulip Metropolis”. Holland positively 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 can be full with out vising the Windmill Island Gardens. Strolling by the attractive gardens is very memorable if you’re there within the spring throughout the Tulip Time Competition 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 strategy to the remoted Isle Royale Nationwide Park.
Positioned in Lake Superior, Isle Royal Nationwide Park is simply accessible by boat or floatplane and affords backcountry mountain climbing and tenting by 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 properly.
19. Ann Arbor

The guts of Ann Arbor is its charming downtown space, stuffed with boutique outlets, scrumptious eating places, and full of life bars. The Ann Arbor Fingers-On Museum is an interactive museum that’s excellent for households with children, because it affords hands-on reveals and actions that train guests about science, know-how, and extra.
It’s additionally house to the College of Michigan. Because of the scholar inhabitants. The record of leisure actions right here is countless. Take a tour of the attractive 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 house 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 number of the finest beers within the area. The Kerrytown District is the historic Market district that’s excellent for procuring 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. Should 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 good lakes await. Go to the Michigan State Capital constructing. This Nationwide Historic Landmark was is likely one of the first capital buildings within the US to function a forged iron dome.
Lansing feels very various and dynamic because of its enormous scholar inhabitants. Town has one thing for everybody each young and old. Begin by exploring the capital constructing or be taught extra in regards to the historical past of Michigan on the Michigan Historical past Middle, a museum devoted the early European explorers.
The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum is devoted to Previous American modes of transportation from an outdated steam engine to basic vehicles.
21. Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo has extra to supply than its historic identify may recommend. Town is house to Western Michigan College and affords countless alternatives for journey seekers. In style sights for guests right here embody the Kalamazoo Valley Museum which is filled with fascinating exhibitions on science, know-how, and historical past. Its hands-on reveals make it a novel expertise for the entire household.
A cease at The Nature Middle The middle is well-maintained and with a lot of flowers. A stroll by the backyard may be very calming expertise because of the sounds of singing birds and water flowing.
Go to the Kalamazoo Insitute of Arts. The institute boasts a powerful assortment of thought-provoking items by American artists and all over the world.
23. Bay Metropolis

Bay Metropolis is a picturesque city positioned on Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. It is likely one of the six communities that make up the Nice Lakes Bay Area. We visited throughout 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 if you’re not a historical past buff, the tour is fascinating due to the guides.
A go to to the historic Regent Theater is a should and ensure to go crusing to discover the attractive coast.
Map of the Greatest 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, make sure you get out of Detroit and see all of the cool sights that the Nice Lake State has to supply.
Should you loved all of those locations to go to in Michigan, Save this put up to Pinterest for future journey planning.
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