Looking for the very best locations to go to in Michigan? Explore this thrilling and various state with this insider’s information to the very best issues to do in Michigan by an area. Michigan is a favourite trip vacation spot for nature lovers, photographers, adventurers, excessive sports activities fanatics, and anybody searching for an unforgettable expertise.
The Great Lake State attracts guests from round America and Canada. From the north shore of Lake Michigan to the Motown and Motor City heritage of Detroit, there are a lot of causes to go to Michigan.
Best Places to Visit in Michigan
Michigander Sherry Trautman shares the perfect locations to go to in Michigan as really useful by a born and raised regionally. If you’re searching for street journey concepts, add these locations in Michigan to your journey. This submit has been up to date by The Planet D for 2023.
1. Detroit
You can not have a listing of the very best issues to do in Michigan and never embody the Motor City 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 Project simply to call just a few.
If you do go to Detroit you do not need to overlook the museums. From the Motown Museum and the Detroit Historical Museum to the Henry Ford Museum, you may study all about what Detroit was like in its heyday and a go to to Corktown and the East MArket will give an important look into the town’s tradition.
If you need to study extra about all the good issues to do in Detroit, ensure that to take a look at our in-depth article right here. Read extra: 21 Best Things to Do in Detroit Michigan
Where to Stay in Detroit
- The Marriott on the Renaissance Center is positioned immediately on the People Mover making it a very good central location. Located in one of many 7 towers of the Renaissance Centre, it is a nice location in Detroit.
- Doubletree Suites by Hilton – We loved our keep right here in Fort Shelby, a historic district on the prepare station. The Fox Theatre and Detroit Opera House are close by, and among the space’s notable landmarks embody Masonic Temple and Ambassador Bridge.
2. Charlevoix
Did you understand you may see your individual little slice of Hobbiton in Michigan? Charlevoix just isn’t solely an important place to make a base in Northern Michigan, however it’s also house to the distinctive mushroom homes designed by famend architect, Earl Young.
Located 4 hours north of Detroit, a go to to Charlevoix was considered one of our favourite issues to do within the decrease peninsula. Read extra: Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix – All Hobbits Welcome to Michigan!
Start by taking a guided tour of the attractive houses that resemble mushrooms, seek for Petosky stones at Fisherman’s Island State Park and Lake Michigan Beach, and take a tour of Castle Farms, considered one of Michigan’s premier historic sights. This citadel was inbuilt 1918 by then Sears, Roebuck & Co-president, and gives a bit slice of Europe within the coronary heart of Michigan. There is an intricate mannequin railroad and hedge maze. This is a lovely cease on any go to to Michigan.
3. Relax on Mackinac Island
There’s a motive why Mackinac Island tops our greatest locations to go to in Michigan. It is 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.
Close your eyes for a second and picture the soothing sounds of waves lapping in opposition to the rocks, the comfortable “clop, clop” sound of horse-drawn carriages slowly passing by, and the heat of the solar in your face.
Situated between the Upper Peninsula and Lower Peninsula of Michigan within the Straits of Mackinac, Mackinac Island is house to stunning sunsets, artwork exhibits, and countless alternatives for water actions. It is like an island escape on the mighty Lake Huron. Before taking the ferry over to the Island, cease in at Bridge View Park to take a photograph of the long-lasting Mackinac Bridge. It is the fifth-longest suspension bridge on the earth. Check out 8 Reasons You Must Visit Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Where to Stay on Mackinac island
A terrific place to remain is The Grand Hotel. This historic grand resort has been welcoming visitors since 1887 and has been named the very best resort by the likes of Conde Nast and Travel and Leisure. See opinions on TripAdvisor
Things to do
- Rent a bicycle because the island is eight miles in circumference
- Climb the 207 stairs up Castle Rock (sure, I counted!) to see the well-known Arch Rock and beautiful views of Lake Michigan.
- Learn concerning the island’s historical past whereas touring Fort Mackinac (and if you’re fortunate, you may get to fireplace the cannon!)
- Visit the attractive Butterfly House
- Rent a kayak to take pleasure in 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 Hotel and its majestic gardens.
4. Grand Rapids
If you’re into microbrews or beer usually Grand Rapids is a spot you don’t need to miss. Located 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 City USA”.
If beer just isn’t your factor Grand Rapids additionally has some improbable artwork galleries and purchasing. You don’t need to miss the Grand Rapids Art Museum or the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, each deserve a go to in your subsequent journey to Michigan. Kids gained’t be disregarded both with a go to to the John Ball Zoo.
If you’re searching for outside actions, ensure that to paddle alongside the Grand River Heritage Trail, the 41-mile waterway is an out of doors lover’s playground. And historical past buffs will take pleasure in The Gerald Ford Presidential Museum.
For a enjoyable day with the entire household, head out to Michigan’s Adventure, the state’s largest amusement park with curler coasters, water parks, and family-friendly rides.
5. Traverse City
Traverse City is ripe (pun meant) for wonderful wine tasting, kayaking, biking, exploring, and indulging in all issues cherry. The largest metropolis in northwest Michigan, Traverse City 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 p.c of the annual tart cherry crop within the United States. While visiting Traverse City, snap a enjoyable picture in entrance of the World’s Largest Cherry Pie Pan, take pleasure in an ice cream flight at Moomers, and embark on a tall ship journey. If you go to in July, the National Cherry Festival will probably be in full swing. This enjoyable Michigan pageant attracts over 500,000 guests yearly! Traverse City’s cherry blossoms bloom in May, providing wonderful pictures alternatives whereas tasting wine on the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas.
Tours and Where to Stay
Discover 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 among the standard sights.
- This rental in Traverse City has two bedrooms, two baths and sleeps 6. There is parking, and it’s strolling distance of downtown Traverse City, with all of the pleasant eating places and outlets. Check it out on VRBO
- Sugar Beach Resort Hotel positioned immediately on the seaside of East Grand Traverse Bay.
Cool Fact: In 2009 TripAdvisor named Traverse City the #2 small city journey vacation spot within the US and it has been named one of many Top 10 Places to retire within the nation.
6. Discover Shipwrecks and Fossils in Alpena
Alpena sits on the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary in Lake Huron. Did you understand there are over 200 shipwrecks on this sanctuary? While 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 gives excellent mountain climbing, stunning biking trails, exploring, and kayaking alternatives at Island Park, Besser Natural Area, and Rockport State Park. Read extra at Fun and Unique Things to do in Northern Michigan
7. Frankenmuth – Fried Chicken 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 considered one of Michigan’s high vacationer sights and a part of the six communities that make up the Great 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 that to cease on the Frankenmuth Historical Museum to study concerning the fascinating historical past of the world. You gained’t go away 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 seems 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 had been lots of people visiting the Falls. There are two entrances, an higher and decrease falls. 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 via so spend a day and benefit from the nice outdoor.
9. Rockport State Park
If you feel adventurous, spend a few hours at Rockport State Park trying to find the expansive rock quarry and engaging bat hibernaculum. You also can discover and convey house uncommon Devonian fossils courting again 400 million years!
Located simply north of Alpena, Rockport State Parks spans 4,237 on the shores of Lake Huron. Go mountain climbing to seek out the sequence of sinkholes and hold an eye fixed out for the Devonian Period fossils. This is a good park for mountain climbing and biking. Plus it’s recognized for its darkish skies.
10. Photograph Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is without doubt one of the most picturesque locations to go to in Michigan. Located on the south shore of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula it’s a summer season and winter playground. Snowmobiling, cross-country snowboarding within the winter, mountain climbing, and kayaking in the summertime supply breathtaking views of the majestic sandstone cliffs and untouched seashores.
There are roughly 100 miles of mountain climbing trails to discover to take pleasure in a peaceable commune with nature. In the winter it is a standard spot for cross-country snowboarding.
If you go to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore throughout the winter season, a number of frozen waterfalls are price mountain climbing or snowshoeing a number of miles. You may even go mountaineering as pictured rocks have among the greatest mountaineering within the nation. You also can discover the breathtaking Eben Ice Caves positioned in Eben Junction, simply 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 whereas visiting Michigan. Located in Michigan’s decrease peninsula on the shores of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is simply 30 miles from Traverse City. The dunes themselves rise over 150 toes above the shores of Lake Michigan and climbing to the highest is unquestionably price it. Perhaps one of the crucial scenic and various views of the dunes is Pierce Stocking Drive positioned close to Empire, Michigan.
You can have the chance to {photograph} huge sweeping dunes, climb an extremely steep dune and embark on scenic hikes, together with the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, which follows the shoreline of Lake Michigan and gives some beautiful panoramas. While you’re visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore and the encircling space, think about driving south on M-22 to see Point Betsie, considered one of Michigan’s most stunning lighthouses.
Where to Stay
- To discover sleeping bear dunes, this trip rental is positioned simply tone weblog from Empire Beach on Lake Michigan within the historic small city of Empire. See it on VRBO.
- Sleeping Bear can also be positioned simply 40 minutes from Traverse City. A very good place to remain in Traverse City at Sugar Beach Resort Hotel positioned immediately on the seaside of East Grand Traverse Bay.
- This rental in Traverse City has two bedrooms, and two baths, and sleeps 6. There is parking, and it’s strolling distance of downtown Traverse City, with all of the pleasant eating places and outlets. Check it out on VRBO
12. Rafting Adventure 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 contemporary 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 you might 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 concept of a improbable trip, think about 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 lease 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 journey with an area tour firm.
14. Midland’s Record-Breaking Canopy Walk
For a novel Michigan expertise, go to the Nation’s Longest Canopy Walk within the Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan. Located at Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest in Midland, this 1400-foot-long cover stroll weaves via 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. While visiting Midland, cheer on the Loons throughout a rousing baseball sport or discover the Tridge, a three-way picket footbridge providing a hen’s eye view of the Chippewa and Tittabawassee rivers.
15. Relax and Explore East Tawas
Tawas Point State Park is a improbable place to go to throughout all 4 of Michigan’s seasons. The hotter climate months supply alternatives to kayak, paddleboard, bike, camp, calm down on the seaside or meander alongside the Saginaw Bay Birding Trail. During winter, clamp some crampons onto the only real of your boots and discover the Sandy Hook Nature Trail paralleling Lake Huron. Tawas Point Lighthouse’s brilliant crimson brick can also be a hanging distinction in opposition to glowing white snow.
Downtown East Tawas gives wonderful boutique purchasing and eating on Newman Street. 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
One of the very best locations to go to in Michigan in order for you a extra distant journey is the Upper Peninsula’s Porcupine Mountains. Located 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 sort out mountain climbing trails that take you to stunning waterfalls and overlooks and for those who go to within the winter snow shoeing and cross nation snowboarding are on the menu.
Whichever approach you resolve to discover the Porcupine mountains, mountain climbing, hopping on the biking brails, or paddling you’ll be certain to understand the wonder that surrounds you on this a part of Michigan. Make certain you don’t miss the Lake of the Clouds, it was our favourite a part of the Porcupine Mountains.
17. Holland
One factor you will discover if you end up the very best locations to go to in Michigan is that a whole lot of them are Quirky little cities. Holland positively matches this description.
Located not removed from Grand Rapids, Holland was based by Duch Americans and is nicknamed the “Tulip City”. Holland positively celebrates its Dutch heritage. You will really feel like you have 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 via the attractive gardens is very memorable if you’re there within the spring throughout the Tulip Time Festival when over 100,000 tulips are in bloom all through the backyard. It is sort of a sight to see.
18. Isle Royale National Park
For a really off-the-beaten-path expertise within the far north of the Upper Peninsula, make your technique to the remoted Isle Royale National Park.
Located in Lake Superior, Isle Royal National Park is simply accessible by boat or floatplane and gives backcountry mountain climbing and tenting via its north woods forest. It is the most important 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 coronary heart of Ann Arbor is its charming downtown space, stuffed with boutique outlets, scrumptious eating places, and vigorous bars. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is an interactive museum that’s good for households with youngsters, because it gives hands-on reveals and actions that educate guests about science, know-how, and extra.
It’s additionally house to the University of Michigan. Thanks to the coed inhabitants. The listing 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 University of Michigan Museum of Art.
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 among the greatest beers within the area. The Kerrytown District is the historic Market district that’s good 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 contemporary produce, baked items, and different merchandise from native farmers and artisans.
Explore vineyards, take pleasure in performing arts, dance the evening away within the many nightclubw. If 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 with no go to to its capital, Lansing. Warm climate and breathtaking view of the good lakes await. Visit the Michigan State Capital constructing. This National Historic Landmark was is without doubt 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 pupil inhabitants. The metropolis has one thing for everybody each young and old. Start by exploring the capital constructing or study extra concerning the historical past of Michigan on the Michigan History Center, a museum devoted the early European explorers.
The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum is devoted to Old American modes of transportation from an outdated steam engine to traditional vehicles.
21. Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo has extra to supply than its historic identify may recommend. The metropolis is house to Western Michigan University and gives countless alternatives for journey seekers. Popular sights for guests right here embody the Kalamazoo Valley Museum which is stuffed 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 Center The middle is well-maintained and with numerous flowers. A stroll via the backyard may be very calming expertise because of the sounds of singing birds and water flowing.
Visit 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 City
Bay City is a picturesque city positioned on Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. It is without doubt one of the six communities that make up the Great Lakes Bay Region. We visited throughout the tall ships pageant and we extremely suggest it. But 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 Best Places to Visit in Michigan
Fall in love with Michigan
So there you have 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 Great Lake State has to supply.
If you loved all of those locations to go to in Michigan, Save this submit to Pinterest for future journey planning.
Read subsequent: