tourist cities michigan

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Michigan

Written by Lana Law and Lura Seavey Updated Mar 22, 2022

Michigan's most-visited tourist destinations include a wide range of interests thanks to the state's diverse landscape, rich history, and legendary city of Detroit. There are endless opportunities for those who are looking to enjoy nature, especially along the shores of the Great Lakes , where you can find freshwater dunes and coastal habitats far from the sea.

Visiting historical sites, like living history museums, is one of the popular things to do, especially Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island and Greenfield Village , which is part of the Henry Ford historic sites.

For those looking for a faster pace, Detroit is an excellent place to visit. It's a city that has worked hard to embrace its significant contributions as the Motor City while evolving into a top tourist destination and cultural center.

From the bright lights of the city to the Great Lakes, you'll find more things to see and do in the state with our list of the top tourist attractions in Michigan.

1. Mackinac Island

2. sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore and lake michigan, 3. detroit institute of arts, 4. pictured rocks national seashore, 5. frederik meijer gardens & sculpture park, grand rapids, 6. the henry ford, dearborn, 7. isle royale national park, 8. detroit zoo, 9. university of michigan, ann arbor, 10. belle isle park, detroit, 11. fort mackinac (colonial michilimackinac), mackinaw city, 12. kitch-iti-kipi, manistique, 13. windmill island, holland, 14. great lakes shipwreck museum, paradise, 15. michigan historical museum, lansing, map of tourist attractions in michigan.

Mackinac Island offers a look at a historic period and a simpler way of life, before cars and buses. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and spend the day wandering through the shops of the old town, touring the island on a horse-drawn carriage, hiking, or visiting Fort Mackinac .

Opened in 1957, Mackinac Bridge connects the Lower Peninsula at Mackinaw City to the Upper Peninsula at St. Ignace. One of the longest suspension spans in the world, it eliminated the backup of vehicles waiting for ferry passage across the straits. The Mackinac Bridge Museum contains many interesting and original artifacts from the construction of the Mighty Mac.

• Read More: Exploring Mackinac Island: Top Things to Do

Although it is the third largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is the only one that entirely borders U.S. soil, and it also gives the state the distinction of having the second-longest shoreline of all 50 states, second only to Alaska. A comprehensive look at the lake's importance can be found at the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven, and there are numerous boat tours perfect for sightseeing, like the Tall Ship Manitou in Traverse City.

The lake's islands are popular places to visit, with the Beaver Island Archipelago and the Manitou Islands as tourist favorites. The Manitou Islands are part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , which is known for its expansive dunes that are perched on headlands along the shoreline.

This state park is one of the most visited, noted for its variety of hiking trails and the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, which spans 7.5 miles along the coast. Other impressive lakeshore dunes include the Warren Dunes in Warren and the P.J. Hoffmaster State Park in Muskegon.

Address: 9922 Front Street, Empire, Michigan

Official site: www.nps.gov/slbe

The Detroit Institute of Arts is known for its expansive collection of humanity's creative works from the earliest cultures through today. With more than 65,000 works of art in over 100 galleries, people from every corner of the globe are represented.

The museum's Islamic art collection includes examples of pottery, stone, and bronze, and there are prime examples from Classical Antiquity, medieval Europe, Oceania, Africa, and the Americas. Among the most coveted European works are paintings by Picasso, Rembrandt, Matisse, and Van Gogh.

While in the neighborhood, tourists will want to take a peek at the beautiful architecture at the Detroit Public Library then make the short walk down Woodward Avenue to the Detroit Historical Museum , which is dedicated to the motor city's fascinating past and emergence as not only an industrial center but also the birthplace of the legendary Motown sound.

Address: 5200 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Michigan

Official site: www.dia.org

Pictured Rocks National Seashore, on the south shore of Lake Superior , gets its name from the colors of copper, iron, and manganese oxide found in the rocks. The landscape here is a mix of dunes, cliffs, beaches, and rocky shoreline. The interior is forest covered, with inland lakes and rivers.

Visitors come here to experience nature, usually through activities like hiking, camping, and boating. In winter, the area is open for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Nearby is Grand Island National Recreation Area , an island which is also popular with outdoor enthusiasts.

Official site: www.nps.gov/piro

The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park offers a variety of environments in which visitors can enjoy the synthesis of art and nature. Outdoor gardens include traditional foliage, a children's garden that encourages interaction with its unique plants, a "Butterfly Maze," and a peaceful Japanese Garden with twin waterfalls.

The 1880s farmhouse is a replica of Lena Meijer's first home and includes the Farm Garden. The Lena Meijer Conservatory is a five-story tropical environment that houses many rare and exotic plants, and in March and April, visitors can watch the amazing process of Monarch butterflies transforming from caterpillar to delicate insect. Sculptures are found throughout both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Address: 1000 East Beltline NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Official site: www.meijergardens.org

Known collectively as "The Henry Ford," this is a group of three attractions that explore not only the auto legend's life and work, but also the entire scope of American innovation. Visitors can take a step back in time at historic Greenfield Village , where you will see what life looked like in the 19th century.

Points of interest include working farms, a restaurant that serves fare that was typical in the 1830s, the train depot where you can catch a ride on a steam-powered locomotive, and rides in a Model T. The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation tells the story of inventors and forward-thinkers who helped shape the world we see today, from the Wright brothers' dream of flying to Rosa Parks' conviction to see change in her lifetime.

For a look at the most current marvels of innovation, the Ford Rouge Factory Tour allows visitors to witness the inner workings of an automotive factory and learn more about the technology and concepts that go into modern vehicles.

Address: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, Michigan

Official site: www.thehenryford.org

Isle Royale lies in northwestern Lake Superior near the Canadian frontier. Shaped by Ice Age glaciers, this 432-square-mile island has many lakes and streams, dense forests, and a variety of wildlife that includes wolves, foxes, moose, otters, ospreys, herring gulls, falcons, and more. This relatively unspoiled tract of country attracts those looking for a remote wilderness experience.

The best way to see the park is on hiking trails and boat trips. Access to the island is by boat or seaplane. Trips usually originate from Houghton or Copper Harbor, Michigan, or Grand Portage, Minnesota.

Official site: www.nps.gov/isro

The Detroit Zoo has an impressive variety of animals in multiple habitats representing all parts of the world. African animals live either in the forest or grassland habitats and include everything from aardvark to zebra, with many family favorites like giraffes, lions, lemurs, and several primates.

An arctic habitat is home to the zoo's famous polar bears, and the Australian Outback has sixteen resident kangaroos and two wallabies. The exotic Asian Forest features red pandas and Amur tigers, while the North American habitats feature some of the continent's most interesting animals, including bears, wolverines, and bald eagles.

The zoo also houses reptile and amphibian centers, an aviary, and even a fine art collection. Visitors can tour the park aboard the miniature Tauber Family Railroad, which has been in operation since 1931.

Battle Creek's Binder Park Zoo also offers a vintage train ride, as well as a "wilderness tram" through its African Savannah habitat, and the John Ball Zoo , one of the top attractions in Grand Rapids , has a large selection of special animal interaction opportunities.

Address: 8450 W 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak, Michigan

Official site: www.detroitzoo.org

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor encompasses 2,800 acres. Some of the interesting old Gothic buildings include the Law Quadrangle, the Power Center for the Performing Arts, and the Natural History Museum . Key attractions on the campus include the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology , with strong collections related to Mediterranean civilizations, the University of Michigan Museum of Art, and the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History.

Beyond the university you'll find a long list of fun and interesting things to do in Ann Arbor . Among these, and located off campus, is the Matthaei Botanical Gardens . Located next to the central campus is the Nichols Arboretum .

Official site: www.umich.edu

Detroit's Belle Isle sits in the Detroit River , housing an expansive park that is home to numerous attractions; the entrance fee to the island covers admission to all.

A family favorite is the Belle Isle Aquarium, the country's oldest aquarium . It is housed in a historic 1904 building with a stunning green opalite vaulted ceiling, and aquarium residents include favorites like pufferfish and clown fish, turtles, seahorses, and even poison frogs.

The Anna Scrips Whitcomb Conservatory is another popular attraction, occupying 13 acres alongside the Lilu Pond and the formal gardens. It is one of the oldest conservatories in the country, and includes the Show House, Palm House, Cactus House, Tropical House, and a sunken Fernery.

To find out more about the region's maritime history, visit the Dossin Great Lakes Museum , home to permanent and changing exhibits that celebrate the economic and social importance of the Great Lakes.

Among the many other attractions on Belle Isle are the grand James Scott Memorial Fountain , a Giant Slide, the Belle Isle Golf Range, and the Belle Isle Boat House. Belle Isle is also home to the Detroit Yacht Club

Address: Bridge Entrance at the intersection of Jefferson Ave and East Grand Boulevard

Official site: https://www.belleisleconservancy.org/belle-isle-park-attractions

Michilimackinac, located in Mackinaw City, was a French fur-trading village and military outpost that operated from 1715 until 1781, when it was almost entirely destroyed by fire. Also known as Fort Mackinac, the site is now home to 14 fully restored and authentically furnished buildings, one of which is the oldest in Michigan.

Presented as a living history museum, the attraction offers plenty of things to do. Costumed interpreters work and go about their day as they would have in 1775, from farming and cooking chores to musket and marching drills. Highlights include the Soldiers Barracks housing an exhibit on the island's history, the Post Hospital with descriptions of medical treatment during the fort's operation, and the Post Guardhouse that explores the era's military justice system.

Visitors may explore freely or choose a guided tour, and there is a children's area dedicated to engaging younger historians in learning about 18th-century life.

Address: 102 W Straits Avenue, Mackinaw City, Michigan

Official site: http://www.mackinacparks.com/parks-and-attractions/colonial-michilimackinac/

Located within Palms Brook State Park in Michigan's Central Upper Peninsula , Kitch-iti-Kipi is a unique freshwater spring that is fed 10,000 gallons of water every minute. Referred to as the "Mirror of Heaven" by the native Chippewa, the water here is a stunning blue-green and crystal clear, allowing visitors to see far into its depths. The temperature of the spring is always 45 degrees Fahrenheit, so even in the middle of a Michigan winter, the water remains unfrozen.

Tourists can board a wheelchair-accessible covered observation craft, which has an open center, allowing unobstructed views of the aquatic life below. Because the spring water emerges from fissures in the limestone below, the millennia-old tree trunks and branches that line the bottom are encrusted in lime, creating an almost alien landscape.

Palms Brook State Park offers a concession area with picnic tables and public-use grills, as well as restrooms. Indian Lake State Park is nearby, bordering Lake Michigan . It has a campground, hiking trails, a boat launch, and a beach, as well as additional picnic shelters and restrooms.

Address: Sawmill Road, Manistique, Michigan

Official site: http://www.visitmanistique.com/bigspring.shtml

One of the most pictureque places in Michigan , Windmill Island is a 36-acre heritage park filled with manicured flower gardens and Dutch architecture. In May, the park comes to life with 175,000 tulips, and in June the extensive gardens change to annual flowers.

Highlights include an authentic Dutch windmill, DeZwaan, dating to the 1760s and brought from the Netherlands in 1964. Standing 125 feet, the windmill is a symbol of the Dutch heritage of this area and is the only original Dutch windmill exported to America. It is still a working windmill producing stone ground flour for sale.

Holland is also home to the Outdoor Discovery Center of Wildlife Unlimited , which has taken on the task of restoring agricultural land to natural habitat. As a result of their efforts, there are now six distinct ecosystems on this 130-acre nature preserve. Highlights include walking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Address: 4214 56th Street, Holland, Michigan

Open seasonally from May 1 through October 31, this museum is full of artifacts from historic wrecks of Lake Superior's "Shipwreck Coast," an 80-mile section of dangerous shoreline that claimed numerous lives. The wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald is among its most famous victims, and the museum displays its recovered bell.

Museum admission includes the Whitefish Point Light Tower , which is Lake Superior's oldest continually operating lighthouse. Visitors can also tour the Lightkeepers Quarters , built in 1861, which has been fully restored, as well as the 1923 Surfboat House . There is also a barrier-free boardwalk that allows access to the fragile dunes of Whitefish Point .

Address: 18335 N Whitefish Point Road, Paradise, Michigan

Official site: www.shipwreckmuseum.com

The Michigan Historical Museum in Lansing was the first facility created by the state museum system and is its largest educational center. Exhibits and artifacts range from an exploration of the region's native populations through the state's evolution and growth as it became what you see today. Permanent and rotating exhibits include interactive modules, films, and presentations.

Exhibits are continuously updated to incorporate the latest technology while enhancing visitors' ability to look into the past. The Michigan History Museum System also operates several other museum sites and archival collections, maintains historic markers, and offers special programs and events for both residents and tourists.

Address: 702 West Kalamazoo Street, Lansing, Michigan

Official site: www.michigan.gov/mhc

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25 Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Mackinac island, traverse city, michigan.

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Popular activities include exploring the beautiful coastline on a Great Turtle Kayak Tour, seeing the island highlights on a Mackinac Island Carriage Tour, and visiting historic Downtown Mackinac where several historic buildings are open to the public. Mackinac Island is one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

If you love the theater, you can watch a show at Hill Auditorium or the nostalgia-inducing Michigan Theater, and everyone should make time to watch a football game at Michigan Stadium.

If you enjoy art and history, you can visit the Holland Museum or the Kruizenza Art Museum, and music lovers can attend the Holland Chorale and the Holland Symphony Orchestra. Children will enjoy visiting the Critter Barn petting zoo.

Outdoor enthusiasts can immerse themselves in all kinds of water sports or explore the many hiking and biking trails in the area, while foodies can enjoy brewery and winery tours and fabulous farm-to-fork restaurants. Save some time for museum and lighthouse visits.

You can take a steamboat ride or enjoy strolling around Cooley Gardens or the W J Beal Botanical Garden. Save some time to explore over a dozen wineries, breweries, and distilleries on a Makers and Shakers Tour.

Spend the day golfing at Raisin Valley Golf Club or let the kids enjoy some minigolf at the Stone Mountain Family Fun Center.

Grand Rapids

The Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is a must for all art lovers, and energetic visitors can enjoy hiking in Millennium Park, zip-lining in the John Ball Zoo, or paddling the Grand River Heritage Trail before satisfying their thirst on one of several craft brewery tours.

Frankenmuth

Younger visitors will enjoy the Frankenmuth Corn Maze (in fall), while adults can enjoy chocolate and wine tasting on a Frankenmuth Fun Ships Tour.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

You can take a scenic drive, go hiking or cycling along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, enjoy some dune climbing, or go kayaking and paddling on the Platte River or beautiful Loon Lake, where there is the added bonus of good wildlife viewing. Save some time to explore historic Glen Haven Village.

Kalamazoo, Michigan

Cyclists can explore many miles of trails, including the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail, while children will love the Binder Park Zoo, Kalamazoo Nature Center, and the Kellogg Bird Sanctuary. Adults can sample local brews on a West Michigan Brewery Walking Tour or Beer and Bike Tour.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Against this backdrop, you can go hiking along 90 miles of trails, some of which offer backcountry camping. Other activities include cycling, swimming, and diving, picnicking, boating, and camping in summer, and snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and cross-country skiing in winter. You can attend several ranger-led programs and guided tours, including day hikes, evening programs, and boat tours.

Mackinac Island State Park

You can enjoy over 70 miles of interpretive roads and trails that will lead you to many historic sites including Fort Holmes, Fort Mackinac, Mill Creek Discovery Park, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, and Colonial Michilimackinac State Park where there are several hands-on exhibits for children to enjoy. Round off your visit at the Treetop Discovery Tower to enjoy a zip-line adventure.

Mackinac Bridge

You can approach the bridge from northern Michigan along Interstate 75 at St. Ignace or from Mackinaw City on the southern peninsula. If you would like to experience walking over this amazing bridge, you should time your visit to coincide with the annual Mackinac Bridge Walk in September, which attracts hundreds of eager walkers.

Sugarloaf Mountain

Along the way, you will see a beautiful forest canopy formed by century-old trees, and at the summit you will be rewarded by wonderful views of Lake Superior, Marquette, Presque Isle Park, and Hogsback Mountain.

Great Lakes Bay Region

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are hiking, biking, and other activities in the Chippewa Nature Center and Midland City Forest. The Saginaw Bay Symphony Orchestra, Midland Symphony Orchestra, the State Theatre, Temple Theatre and the Dow Event Center provide endless choices for entertainment.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

There are several view points along the way where you can spend some time soaking up the atmosphere, including the Glen Lake Overlook and Lake Michigan Overlook, which is perched 450 feet above the lake and is renowned for offering the most amazing sunset views along the shoreline.

Manistee, Michigan

You can learn about Manistee’s logging history as you stroll along the Manistee Riverwalk to the bustling Manistee Marina, which is the main shopping, dining, and entertainment hub. History buffs can take a self-guided walking tour through Historic Downtown, which will introduce you to one of the best collections of historic buildings in Michigan, and foodies should not miss the Saturday Farmer’s Market. Michigan resorts

Petoskey Area

In summer you can relax on the beaches or enjoy a wide variety of water sports, take the chairlift up Boyne Mountain, hike the trails in Avalanche Mountain Preserve, or discover the area by bike. For winter fun there are three ski resorts and the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark. There are several museums for rainy days and lots of live entertainment options.

Outdoor activities abound, and you can choose from water sports, scuba diving, fishing, hiking, cycling, and ORV trails to ship-wreck hunting from a glass-bottomed boat. In winter, the emphasis changes to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. You can see Escanaba at its colorful best on one of several Fall Colors Scenic Drives.

Isle Royal National Park

One way to enjoy the splendor is to go backpacking along over 160 miles of scenic trails, sleeping at one of the 36 campsites dotted across the island. You can also enjoy several less strenuous day hikes, explore the many coves and bays by motorized boat, or take to the calmer inland waters for canoeing and kayaking. Scuba diving, guided tours, and ranger-led programs are also available.

If you prefer to stay on land you can go hiking along the North Country Trail or in the Hiawatha National Forest, visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum and Whitefish Point Light Station, the Fort De Buade Museum, the Carlyn Zoological Park, or Indian Village.

There are dozens of family activities, including a riverboat cruise on the Detroit Princess and visits to the fabulous Detroit Zoo and the Legoland Discovery Center. Plant lovers should not miss the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory on Belle Isle Park.

Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary

The forest is home to over 85 species of birds and many small animals you can observe as you hike along the three trail loops. Cathedral Trail Loop is where the largest of the trees are found, but Memorial Trail Loop is just as rewarding – combine both trails to make the most of your visit.

Thorne Swift Nature Preserve

You can spend some time observing aquatic creatures from the pond-observation platform and admire the protected dunes from the dune-observation platform, which is also a wonderful place to watch the sunset. The Elizabeth Kennedy Nature Center offers hands-on nature programs for children and guided hikes in summer, or you can make your own way along the Beach Trail and Balsam Trail.

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge

You can make your way along the Ferguson Bayou Trail and the Woodland Trail on foot, bicycle, or skis, or choose the Wildlife Drive auto route. The Green Point Environmental Learning Center offers a further two and a half miles of hiking and cross-country skiing trails and seasonal educational programs.

• 1. Mackinac Island
• 2. Ann Arbor
• 4. Traverse City, Michigan
• 6. Tecumseh
• 7. Grand Rapids
• 8. Frankenmuth
• 9. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• 10. Kalamazoo, Michigan
• 11. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• 12. Mackinac Island State Park
• 13. Mackinac Bridge
• 14. Sugarloaf Mountain
• 15. Great Lakes Bay Region
• 16. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
• 17. Manistee, Michigan
• 18. Petoskey Area
• 19. Escanaba
• 20. Isle Royal National Park
• 21. St. Ignace
• 22. Detroit
• 23. Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary
• 24. Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
• 25. Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge

Last Updated By VI on March 18, 2024 in Things to Do in Michigan & Places to Visit

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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 Sep 7, 2021 and updated Apr 26, 2023.

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20 Top Things to Do in Michigan

From museums to vineyards and beaches, the Wolverine State has plenty to explore.

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Walking along the Detroit River, enjoying an ice cream cone on Mackinac Island or touring the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor are just a few of the many things you can do in Michigan.

Located in the heart of America's Great Lakes region, Michigan boasts the longest freshwater coastline in the country. Its name is derived from the indigenous word for "large water" and, as such, aquatic activities like fishing, kayaking, sailing and scuba diving are at the top of traveler's Michigan bucket lists. Landlubbers will also have plenty to do thanks to an abundance of forests and farmland, featuring a multitude of scenic drives, recreational trails and U-pick orchards to explore. Make sure to swing through a few of Michigan's cities as they each harbor a wealth of innovative museums, top-notch restaurants and notable historical landmarks to experience in-between outdoor adventures. With so many fun and free things to do and see, let this roundup help you plan your family vacation or romantic getaway to this underrated vacation destination.

Grand Rapids

Named for its location on the Grand River in western Michigan, this is the second-largest city in the state and home to some of its most famous museums and cultural offerings, like the Gerald Ford Presidential Museum , Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park and Frank Lloyd Wright's Meyer May House . In addition to art and history, Grand Rapids is nationally acclaimed for its craft beer scene and offers an "ale trail" featuring 46 breweries and almost 20 distilleries, wineries and cideries in the Beer City USA region. Don't miss Brewery Vivant, which gets rave reviews from both travelers and locals alike for its European-style beers, quality food and unique location inside a former funeral home chapel, complete with original woodworking; and Founder's Brewing, one of the nation's largest craft brewing operations popular for its outdoor patio and in-house selection of seasonal brews. If you're eager to sip as many suds as possible during your visit, book a stay at the Holiday Inn Grand Rapids Downtown hotel whose Beer City package includes complimentary breakfast, two souvenir pint glasses and a beverage cooler. Download the Culture Pass for just $20 for even more discounts including free access to an array of the city’s top attractions including the Grand Rapids Art Museum , John Ball Zoo , Grand Rapids Public Museum and the Circle Theatre.

[See more of Grand Rapids: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Mackinac Island

If you're craving a locale to help you slow down and enjoy the simple things in life − like enjoying an ice cream cone or piece of fudge while watching the sunset − put Mackinac Island at the top of your Michigan bucket list. Travelers flock here to bask in the island's scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere, especially in the summer months (although it is accessible year-round). You'll arrive by ferry or airplane and explore by foot, bicycle or horseback on this vehicle-free island, which spans less than 5 square miles, the majority of which is encompassed by the Mackinac Island State Park. You can also call Mackinac Island Taxi for a lift via horse-drawn carriage, one of the destination's most popular activities. Fort Mackinac and a historic downtown district lined with restaurants and shops is located on the south side of the island providing a hub of activity, while the north end offers a remote respite with a nature center, hiking trails and scenic picnic areas. After poking around town, venture onto the 8.2-mile Lake Shore Boulevard which encircles the entire island offering sweeping lake views, a glimpse of the Mackinac Bridge (one of the longest suspension bridges in the world) and access to a variety of iconic limestone formations, such as Arch Rock, Sunset Rock and Devil's Kitchen. The historic Grand Hotel boasts an on-site golf course, outdoor swimming pool and stables, plus numerous elegant dining outlets.

[Read: The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State .]

Traverse City

From shopping in the Village at Grand Traverse Commons to exploring the sandy shoreline of the Grand Traverse Bay to expanding your mind at the Dennos Museum Center , an indoor-outdoor art collection located on the campus of Northwestern Michigan College, Traverse City is one well-rounded town. Booking a room at the Hotel Indigo Traverse City will put you in the center of the action and just steps away from Clinch Park , the city's hub for lakeside activities including sand volleyball, swimming, a marina and beach. Known as the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City is home to the National Cherry Festival, a weeklong celebration in July where attendees can buy baked goods, participate in pit-spitting contests, and enjoy live music, parades and fireworks displays. This area also has numerous "U-pick" fruit farms in its vicinity such as the Third Coast Fruit Company, a sixth-generation family orchard on the Mission Peninsula that visitors say makes for a fun, family-friendly summer outing. Given its close proximity to Lake Michigan, Traverse City is set amidst two American Viticultural Areas: Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula. The Traverse City Wineries provide travelers with more than 40 wineries to explore. Wine enthusiasts may want to book a guided tour or peruse our list of the Best Traverse City Wine Tours .

[See more of Traverse City: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park and Lakeshore

Located near the town of Empire, this natural oasis protects 65 miles of rugged Lake Michigan shoreline famous for its towering bluffs topped with fields of deep sand and tall grasses. To understand where the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park and Lakeshore got its name, head for the Dune Center Bookstore where you can partake in the popular "Dune Climb," a fun-for-all-ages scramble in the sand. More adventurous types can venture further onto the Dunes Trail, a strenuous 3.5-mile trek to the bluffs with rewarding vistas of the lake and the Manitou Islands, which visitors describe as "breathtaking" and "inspiring." The islands are also managed by the parks service and can be reached via ferry ride for access to even more hiking trails, pristine beaches and backcountry campsites. Recover from your adventures at the nearby Homestead Resort, which provides a wide variety of lodging options and a beach club on Sleeping Bear Bay.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

This acclaimed year-round attraction has a whopping 8,000 five-star reviews on Google, with travelers praising everything from the park's botanical variety to its sculptures to its museum shop. The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park 's annual spring butterfly display invites guests to mingle with some 7,000 butterflies of all sizes, colors and countries of origin. Families with children also love the interactive Lena Meijer Children's Garden where kids can dig, climb and splash to their heart's content. Other popular exhibits include the 15,000-square-foot tropical greenhouse, a farm garden showcasing heirloom vegetables and an 8-acre Japanese Garden. In addition to horticulture, the park also flaunts a 300-piece permanent sculpture collection featuring artists from around the globe, including Auguste Rodin and Edgar Degas. A tram tour is available to help visitors navigate the 158-acre facility for a small fee. The Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is just a 5-minute drive from the garden and offers an indoor pool and complimentary breakfast.

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

Start your visit to the "City of Trees" with a tour of the iconic University of Michigan campus and all of its cultural counterpoints. Afterwards, head north to Ann Arbor's Kerrytown Market for lunch and shopping, where you can browse a unique array of artisan goods, clothing boutiques and eateries. The historic district also hosts an array of family-fun events, such as the year-round Ann Arbor farmer's market, which has been running for more than 100 years. After getting your fill of flowers and foodstuffs, continue north to the Huron River, which winds through the city offering scenic beauty and recreation space throughout. At Argo Park you can watch kayakers and tubers bob and splash through a series of small rapids called the Argo Cascades, or rent a boat and test the waters for yourself. Guests of the Residence Inn by Marriott Ann Arbor Downtown appreciate the hotel's friendly staff, location and complimentary breakfast.

[See more of Ann Arbor: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

KMSPhotography | Courtesy of Henry Ford Museum

Located halfway between the major cities of Grand Rapids and Detroit, this world-renowned museum is dedicated to the life and work of one of the state's most celebrated American business tycoon and icon. Visitors recommend allowing at least 2 to 4 hours to fully experience the vast collection planes, trains and automobiles housed here, including historical artifacts such as the secret service limousine that John F. Kennedy was riding in at the time of his assassination and the bus that made Rosa Parks famous. Car buffs will want to spend even more time on the accompanying Ford Rouge Factory tour which walks you through the evolution of American motorsports and manufacturing, from design to assembly. If the weather is nice, continue your exploration of the ages in nearby Greenfield Village, a time-warp "town" comprising seven distinct districts replicating different eras spanning 300 years. Round out the experience of this "Disney World of museums" with a stay at the historic Dearborn Inn by Marriott , which sits on the former site of the original Ford Motor Company.

Address: 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, MI 48124

Drive Scenic Highway M-22

This 116-mile stretch of road hugs the coast of Lake Michigan from Manistee County to Traverse City, showcasing vibrant communities, scenic natural and recreational areas and endless lake views, and offers a wide variety of free things to do along the way. From Manistee, drive north on US-31 for about 6 miles, then turn left on M-22 North. After passing through the quaint towns of Onekama and Arcadia, look for the turnoff for Inspiration Point where you can climb the stairs to an observation deck overlooking turquoise waters, which visitors say is a nice place to stretch your legs and enjoy breathtaking views, especially at sunset. Continue on to Point Betsie Lighthouse, a picturesque National Register of Historic Places landmark in operation since 1858, where you can take a tour and even stay overnight in the Keeper's Quarter's apartment.

If you're feeling a bit peckish (or, rather, pick-ish) take a short detour inland towards the town of Beulah which is surrounded by U-pick orchards, such as Baatz Blueberry Farm and roadside farm stands, like Sorensen Farms, offering an array of fresh, seasonal produce. Next, you'll travel through the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, offering a plentitude of hiking trails and beaches to explore. In Leland, be sure to stop for a stroll along the canal and to poke through the colorful shops, art galleries and eateries in the tiny historic village of Fishtown before continuing towards the northernmost point of the Leelanau Peninsula. After stopping to see the Grand Traverse Lighthouse in Leelanau State Park, where visitors enjoy climbing to the top of the structure for unobstructed views of the Manitou Passage, you'll turn south and finish your drive along the bay to your final destination, Traverse City.

Michigan's Adventure

Courtesy of Michigan's Adventure

The state's largest amusement park is located in Muskegon, just 8 miles from the shores of Lake Michigan, providing stellar scenery from the top of the park's Ferris wheel. The park's signature ride, Shivering Timbers is a wooden roller coaster, which is the longest and fastest in the state. The ride is even more thrilling when ridden at night. Families with young children will want to head to Camp Snoopy, a new addition featuring smaller rides, an interactive play structure and serene landscaping for a child-friendly theme park experience. Kids of all ages rave about the WildWater Adventure water park section to beat the summer heat, featuring seven body and tubing waterslides, three wave pools with various intensities, a lazy river and a multi-level aquatic playground with slides, geysers and a tipping bucket for serious splashing. Both portions of the park are included in ticket prices, with options to add on dining, cabana and "fast lane" packages. You can walk to Michigan's Adventure from the adjacent Duck Creek RV Resort, which offers both cabins and RV sites for rent as well as entertaining amenities like a swimming pool, miniature golf course, arcade and lake with paddling sports.

Address: 1198 W. Riley-Thompson Road, Muskegon, MI 49445

Despite having a reputation as being a little rough around the edges, the Motor City harbors many worthwhile cultural attractions, historical landmarks and fun things to do. If you're short on time in Detroit , you'll be hard-pressed to choose between a visit to the world-renowned Detroit Institute of Arts, the Michigan Science Center or the Motown Museum , home to the recording label that produced award-winning sounds by the likes of The Temptations and The Jackson 5 throughout the 1960s, giving it the nickname "Hitsville U.S.A." Taking a stroll along the 3-mile Detroit International RiverWalk is one of the best free things to do around town, where visitors are delighted to discover a waterfront carousel, public artworks and views of Canada across the Detroit River. The nearby Eastern Market is another popular activity, where you'll encounter local purveyors for fresh produce, handmade soaps, fine meats, bakeries, craft beer, flowers and more spread across the historic 43-acre compound. Although the market is free to enter, it will be almost impossible to leave without doing a little shopping at this sprawling public marketplace − the largest of its kind in the country. For easy access to some of the city's top dining and entertainment outlets, including the Fox Theatre and Detroit Opera House, book a room at the hip Shinola Hotel in downtown.

[See more of Detroit: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels | Photos ]

Pictured Rocks National Seashore

This rugged gem, located on Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula region, provides year-round access to adventurous activities like hiking, snowshoeing, paddling, fishing, camping, ice climbing and more for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to being the first national seashore established by the parks service in 1966, this natural beauty boasts 42 miles of primitive shoreline and 100 miles of trails leading to geographic wonders like sandstone cliffs, gushing waterfalls, sand dunes, pristine beaches and dense Northwood forestland. The park also hosts a portion of the 4,700-mile North Country National Scenic Trail, the longest of all backpacker "thru-hiking" trails in the country. If hiking isn't your thing, hop on a ferry with Pictured Rocks Cruises company in the nearby town of Munising for a 3-hour guided tour of some of the park's most famous rock formations and landmarks, like the Miner's Castle rock tower, the vibrantly colored Painted Coves, the 70-foot-tall Spray Coves waterfall and the historic East Channel lighthouse. Also located in Munising is the Holiday Inn Express Munising-Lakeview with an indoor swimming pool, sauna and outdoor patio overlooking the lake.

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Courtesy of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

This 4,300-mile aquatic preserve in Lake Huron contains the remnants of almost 100 historic sunken boats in an area known as "Shipwreck Alley." Travelers recommend visiting the free Michigan Maritime Heritage Center, the park's basecamp in the nearby town of Alpena, to learn about the history and evolution of commercial shipping and vessel construction via interactive exhibits. Or, embark on an educational expedition in a glass-bottom boat tour to view an underwater collection of artifacts, which are well-preserved due to the lake's frigid year-round temperature (tickets can be purchased at the heritage center). Adventurous souls who are experienced with navigating sensitive ecosystems can get even closer to the shipwreck sites by snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alpena-Downtown is conveniently located just across the Thunder Bay River from both the heritage center and boat tour company.

Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail

Michigan is a fertile farming region known for producing everything from cherries to wooden furniture. It might surprise you to know that despite its bitter cold winter weather, the climate is actually ideal for growing grapes for winemaking. Although the state is home to several notable wine regions. The most famous wine region − Lake Michigan Shore AVA located in the southwest region near Kalamazoo contains the majority of its vineyards, including the St. Julian Winery & Distillery, the oldest and largest operation in the state. The wine trail itself features 15 wineries and tasting rooms, and provides an interactive map for easy navigation. Visitors love the Lemon Creek Winery for its array of varietals, including some ice wines made from the on-site orchard, and the Round Barn Estate for its picturesque scenery and live music events. Blended with bucolic scenery and enticing events, such as live music and beach parties, this area is an ideal destination for a girl's trip or romantic weekend getaway on your Michigan bucket list. A stay at the AAA four diamond-rated Inn at Harbor Shores, located a short walk from the lakefront in the town of Benton Harbor, provides a central jumping off point to explore the wine trail.

Upper Peninsula

Often referred to as simply "The U.P." this unique geographical region is characterized by expansive forests, access to three of the Great Lakes (Lake Huron, Lake Michigan and Lake Superior) and unparalleled year-round outdoor recreation with more than 1,000 miles of coastline to explore. The 5-mile Mackinac Bridge transports travelers across the Straits of Mackinac to the city of St. Ignace, which welcomes visitors to the peninsula with an interpretive historic boardwalk, bustling marina and downtown district full of shops and restaurants. Visitors love the Breakers Resort, located near the ferry port, for its lake views and beachfront restaurant. Most of the peninsula's millions of acres is made up of national forest land prime for hiking and mountain biking, such as the Hiawatha and Ottawa national forests; wildlife refuge and wilderness areas; and national parks, including the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the Keweenaw National Historic Park. This latter attraction is situated in the remote northwestern region of the U.P., an area historically known for its copper mining operations. Visitors to the park recommend taking the guided tour of mine and rave about the rugged beauty of its surroundings.

Kitch-iti-kipi Spring

This mesmerizing geographic attraction, interpreted as the "Big Spring," is tucked into Palms Book State Park located in the central region of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The natural spring spurts some 10,000 gallons of freshwater per minute from the ground, evidenced by the bubbles that glug to the surface of the crystal-clear pool. Visitors can pull themselves across the water on a rope-propelled raft and peer down to see fish and limestone formations beneath the surface. Amazingly, the strikingly azure waters maintain a 45-degree temperature year-round, never freezing over even in the winter. Travelers say this is a "must see" attraction but warn that the small space becomes crowded during the summer high season. The Comfort Inn in the nearby town of Manistique provides a nice jumping off point for exploring this area.

Address: M-149 (a mile north of the county road 455 junction), Manistique, MI 49854

University of Michigan

Touring the University of Michigan campus is one of the best free things to do while visiting Ann Arbor. The 3,200-acre campus is bisected by the scenic Huron River which serves as the northern border for the school's Nichols Arboretum , a community oasis featuring 3.5 miles of walking paths through lush gardens, including the largest peony garden in North America. The university has many other cultural attractions also open to the public, like the Kelsey Museum of Archaeology, the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History and the University of Michigan Museum of Art , praised for showcasing a wide variety of artists and offering free admission (a $10 donation is suggested). Sports fans won't want to miss a glimpse inside the massive Michigan Stadium, also known as the "Big House," a legendary college football landmark and historical institution. The Graduate Ann Arbor Hotel has a modern, university club vibe and an on-site cocktail lounge within walking distance of campus.

Address: 500 S. State St., Ann Arbor, MI 48109

Detroit Institute of Arts

This museum is recognized as one of the best art museums in the country due to its impressive collection of more than 65,000 artworks on display across 100 galleries. Visitors to the Detroit Institute of Arts describe their experiences here as "amazing" and "unforgettable" and mention that the European-style building itself is also a thing of beauty (they also warn that it is enormous, so be prepared for a lot of walking). The 658,000-square-foot compound features centuries of paintings, sculptures, photographs and antique furniture from around the globe, as well as a contemporary outdoor sculpture garden. Free guided tours are offered daily. The Hotel St. Regis Detroit has hosted numerous celebrities since its opening in the 1960s, and was renovated in 2020 to reveal a sophisticated, modern design.

Address: 5200 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48202

View the Northern Lights

You don't have to travel to the Arctic Circle region to experience the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, because it is possible to see this atmospheric phenomenon in certain parts of Michigan. The best viewing spots are along the northern shores of the Upper Peninsula region in remote areas with dark, clear skies, like the Pictured Rocks National Seashore or the mining town of Copper Harbor, perched on the northernmost point of the Keweenaw Peninsula. The Marquette area is also well-known for its views of the horizon across Lake Superior, and travelers say the Birchmont Motel will give you a front-row seat right from your room. However, the skies have been known to glow as far south as Mackinaw City, where the Headlands International Dark Sky Park is located, providing an ideal space for observing the night sky at any time. Depending on the weather, this elusive light show is most likely to appear from August to April, with the best chances occurring in the spring and fall seasons. And if you happen to miss the astronomical event, rest assured you will be treated to spectacular stargazing as a consolation prize.

The centrally located capital city is home to an array of fun, family-friendly attractions to add to your Michigan bucket list. Start with the Impression 5 Science Center, State Capitol building and Michigan History Center, featuring 26 galleries across five floors showcasing important events, aspects and landmarks in the state's evolution since the ice age. Families with young children adore the Potter Park Zoo for its small size and neighborhood feel, offering a more intimate experience. The zoo is one of many landmarks that can be found along the 13-mile Lansing River Trail, which flanks both the Grand and Red Cedar rivers, providing nice scenery for your walk or bike ride. The trail also passes through the Michigan State University campus, where you'll also find the Wharton Center for the Performing Arts boasting a lineup of Broadway favorites on four stages. A collection of galleries, bakeries, breweries and boutiques can be found in the revitalized Old Town district – located at the site of the city's original settlement, founded in 1848 – offering hours of entertainment for all ages. The Radisson Hotel Lansing at the Capitol , located in the heart of downtown, has rooms with river and city views.

Port Austin

Thanks to its unique location at the northern tip of Michigan's "thumb" the tiny village of Port Austin is a great place to catch both the sunrise and the sunset over Lake Huron. It is also an ideal destination for water sport enthusiasts who flock to the region to cast a line for lake trout and walleye or paddle out to see the area's most notable natural landmark, Turnip Rock (check out Port Austin Kayak for trail maps and equipment rentals, including bikes and snowshoes). Travelers recommend Bird's Eye Park for relaxing lake activities such as a beach, boardwalk and splash pad for kids. In town, a visit to the Village Green public square is a must for shopping, strolling and immersing yourself in the community culture. On Saturdays during the summertime, the adjacent Port Austin Farmer's Market draws big crowds to purchase produce, crafts, flowers and snacks from more than 50 local vendors. The nearby Beachcomber Motel gets repeat guests who come for the lakeside swimming pool and private beach.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Michigan
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Michigan
• The Top Ski Resorts in Michigan
• The Best Hotels in Detroit
• The Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago
• The Best Hiking Trail in Every State
• The Best Places to Hike in North America
• The Top Things to Do in Ohio
• The Top Things to Do in Wisconsin
• The Top Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells

Tags: Travel , Michigan Vacations , Midwest Vacations , US Vacations

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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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

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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.

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.

Touropia Travel

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10 Best Places to Visit in Michigan

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on February 4, 2024

Nestled in the heart of the Great Lakes region, the Midwest state of Michigan lies in the north of the Untied States on the border with Canada . Home to more than 12,000 lakes and more beaches than the country’s entire Atlantic coastline, it’s made up of two large peninsulas and several scenic and secluded islands.

While the state is dominated and defined by its wealth of waterways, much of it is coated in endless forests and wilderness.

Map of Places to Visit in Michigan

As such, there are loads of great outdoor activities to be enjoyed, with hiking, camping and sailing all popular due to the sublime scenery. Dotted about its two peninsulas are some incredible towns and cities, and its cultural capital of Detroit is one the most captivating places to visit in Michigan.

10. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Centered around the wonderful waterfalls after which it is named, Tahquamenon Falls State Park lies in the north of the state on Michigan’s untouched Upper Peninsula. Mostly made up of fantastic forests and woodlands, it is set not far from the sparkling waters of Lake Superior.

Meandering amid the towering trees is the Tahquamenon River, which boasts the park’s two most spectacular sights – the Upper and Lower Falls. While the former spans over 60 metres in width and plunges 15 metres down a steep overhang, the latter is a sensational series of small cascades that swirl around an idyllic and isolated island.

While hiking along the riverbanks and taking photo after photo of the fabulous falls is very popular, the state park is also a great place to go fishing and canoeing. In addition to this, many people camp overnight to better enjoy the stunning scenery and increase the likelihood of catching a glimpse of the moose, black bears and bald eagles that inhabit the park.

Set on the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, the small city of Holland lies on the Lower Peninsula, not far from Grand Rapids. Founded by Dutch Americans, ‘The Tulip City’ is a very popular place to visit in Michigan due to its unique heritage and the wealth of beautiful bulbs lining its picturesque parks and windmill-dotted gardens.

While both Veldheer Tulip Gardens and Windmill Island Gardens have lots of lovely flowerbeds for visitors to enjoy, the Holland Museum offers a fascinating look at Dutch history and culture in the States. At the Dutch Village theme park, there are traditional buildings to wander around, with a clogs factory, windmill and costume museum also on offer.

The best times to visit Holland are in May, when the terrific Tulip Time Festival takes place, and December, when it hosts a charming Christmas market. On top of its wonderful waterfront and delightful downtown packed full of Victorian buildings, the city also has excellent beaches and watersports for visitors to try out.

8. Saugatuck & Douglas

Situated just to the south of Holland are the twin towns of Saugatuck & Douglas, which lie at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River next to Lake Michigan. Having almost merged into one, the two adjacent settlements are now one of the glittering Gold Coast’s most popular resort areas due to their lively yet laidback vibe and friendly and welcoming nature.

Dotted about town are more than a dozen exquisite art galleries for visitors to check out, as well as eclectic shops and waterfront restaurants. Cosy BnBs also abound, while breathtaking beaches such as Oval Beach lie nearby. In addition, Holland and Grand Rapids aren’t too far away if you want to explore a little further afield.

Long popular with the Midwest’s LGBT community, the towns also attract families and boaters from Chicago and Detroit. While they can get crowded at weekends and during the summer months, Saugatuck & Douglas are well worth checking out.

7. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The first National Lakeshore founded in the United States, Pictured Rocks is located along the Upper Peninsula’s breathtaking Lake Superior shoreline. Named after the colorful sandstone cliffs lining its rugged coastline, it is home to spectacular rock formations, waterfalls, and caves.

Stretching more than 20 kilometers, the craggy cliffs impressively tower up to 60 meters, with phenomenal views out over the lake. Hidden away among its diverse landscapes are wondrous waterfalls such as Munising Falls and Sable Falls, while hiking trails weave their way through all the outstanding nature.

One of the best ways to see the stunning sea caves, rock arches, and kaleidoscopic cliffs from up close is to go kayaking or boating on the lake. Scuba diving is also popular; shadowy shipwrecks lie beneath the waves while many people also visit the park in winter to go cross-country skiing or snowmobiling. In addition, Grand Sable Dunes has some epic dunes for you to check out.

6. Isle Royale National Park

Encompassing not only Isle Royale but hundreds of small islets and their surrounding waters, this wonderfully wild national park lies in the northwest of Lake Superior, right on the border with Canada. Established in 1940, it protects lots of sublime scenery and is particularly known for its large populations of moose and timber wolves.

Due to its secluded setting, the park receives relatively few visitors; as such, you’ll often have its thick forests, rugged ridges and scenic shoreline completely to yourself. Camping is a delight as you immerse yourself in the untouched and unspoiled nature with wildlife sightings almost inevitable.

Besides hiking along its innumerable paths and trails, visitors can enjoy fishing and canoeing on its myriad of mesmerizing lakes and streams. For an unforgettable adventure experience, you can’t beat the Isle Royale archipelago and its fabulous fauna and flora.

5. Traverse City

Located in the north of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Traverse City lies nestled away at the end of the long, natural harbor of Grand Traverse Bay. Divided in two by the Old Mission Peninsula, the beautiful bay boasts lovely landscapes, with Lake Michigan not far away.

While the city suffers a bit from urban sprawl, it is a very pleasant place to spend some time. Besides the spectacular Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, there are plenty of charming towns and wonderful wineries dotted about the Leelanau Peninsula for visitors to explore, with a wealth of outdoor activities on offer.

Known as the ‘Cherry Capital of the World’, Traverse City is home to a handful of great breweries and historical sights. Dennos Museum Center houses excellent exhibitions on Inuit art. One of the best times to visit is in July, when the National Cherry Festival’s parades and contests take place.

4. Grand Rapids

The second-largest city in the state, Grand Rapids lies in the west of Michigan on the banks of the Grand River. Founded at the site of what used to be a set of roaring rapids, the historic furniture-making center is now primarily known for its burgeoning craft brewery scene.

Dotted around town are about 25 brilliant breweries to try out, and many exquisite eateries and restaurants have sprung up in recent years. Besides its drinking and dining scenes, Grand Rapids also has a couple of museums worth checking out, such as the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, which looks at his life and achievements.

Over the years, the city has built up an impressive collection of public artworks, with some superb exhibitions and installations to be found at the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. On top of all this, Grand Rapids has one of the largest urban historic districts in the States to explore, with countless architectural styles on show at Heritage Hill.

3. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

One of the most popular and picturesque places to visit in the state, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in the northwest of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Encompassing everything from dramatic dunes and beautiful beaches to wind-swept waterways and isolated isles, it will delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Established in 1970, the National Lakeshore protects some diverse landscapes, with countless species of fauna and flora found within its confines. While its immense dunes hugging Lake Michigan’s scenic shoreline are the undoubted highlight, its verdant forests and reflective streams and lakes lend themselves perfectly to all kinds of outdoor activities.

Besides hiking, swimming and kayaking, many people enjoy camping in the park due to the lovely scenery; North and South Manitou Island are home to some great campsites. In addition, there are some interesting abandoned farms and villages for visitors to check out.

The second-largest city in the Midwest after Chicago , Detroit is a major cultural center that has long been widely feted for its contributions to art, architecture and music. After having suffered decades of neglect and decay, ‘The D’ is once again buzzing as new developments, businesses and attractions breathe life into its skyscraper-dotted streets.

Long synonymous with urban decline and crime, a glut of renovations and revitalization projects has seen everything from art galleries and coffee shops to hotels and offices occupy what were once derelict buildings. Add in its astounding array of Art Deco architecture, its wonderful waterfront, and large and lively theater district – and Detroit is a fabulous place to visit.

While superb street art and world-class museums such as the Detroit Institute of Arts can be enjoyed during the day, at night, visitors can delve into its edgy and energetic music and nightlife scenes. With so many alluring sides, Michigan’s creative and cultural capital is not to be missed out on.

1. Mackinac Island

Set in the sparkling Straits of Mackinac, which separate Lake Michigan from Lake Huron, the lovely island of the same name has long been a popular tourist destination. Lying between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, it was once an important port in the North American fur trade and was fought over numerous times by the British and Americans.

Nowadays the island is noted for its myriad of amazing Victorian-era buildings, of which the Grand Hotel is its undoubted star attraction. Around its atmospheric old ferry port, visitors can find an array of historic shops and restaurants, and no visit is ever complete without trying its famous fudge. In addition, it has plenty of magnificent nature and parkland to explore, with hiking, biking and horse-drawn buggy rides all popular activities .

Although it is car-free, Mackinac Island can get very crowded at weekends and during the summer months due to its popularity. To get a real feel for it, it is therefore worthwhile staying in one of its historic inns, cosy BnBs or even the glamorous Grant Hotel itself so that you can walk around its pretty and picturesque streets in peace.

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April 15, 2021 at 8:31 am

Best State in the Union! Yes we have more coastal miles than all states except Alaska. We have more inland lakes and streams than all states but Alaska. We have beautiful sand filled beaches and beaches that are rocky and those with cliffs. We are the Mitten state!

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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.

Thomas Barrat / Shutterstock

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

Shriram Patki / Shutterstock

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

Doug Lemke / Shutterstock

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

AJKamps / Shutterstock

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

JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock

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

Laurent Fady / Shutterstock

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

Kenneth Keifer / Shutterstock

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

Mike Osinski / Shutterstock

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

Pictureguy / Shutterstock

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

Atomazul / Shutterstock

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

AngelSchwai / Shutterstock

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

Randall Vermillion / Shutterstock

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

Wigwam Jones / flickr

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

John McCormick / Shutterstock

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.

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2023 Michigan Travel Guide + Interactive Map of Over 43 Destinations, Cities, Vacation Ideas and Things to Do in Michigan! 

By Sherry Trautman

The Ultimate 2023 Michigan Travel Guide | By Sherry Trautman | Traveling Michigan

This travel guide is the most in depth, accurate and fun vacation planner on the internet!

Are you a tourist or a life-long Michigander looking for great Michigan destinations, ideas, attractions and vacation ideas? This guide is for you!

Check it out!  We've got...

• Michigan cities with ideas of the best things to see and do
• Interactive map of Michigan: Easily choose your destination and region!
• Colorful photos to inspire your vacation
• Best places to visit in Michigan
• Great Michigan day trips or getaways
• Unique places to visit in Michigan
• Awesome vacations for families, solo or couples
• Top tourist spots, towns and cities

Where will your Michigan travels take you this year?

How to Use This Michigan Travel Guide

Hi! We are Sherry and Chris!

We spent three years organizing this continually updated Michigan Travel guide and planner with the goal of helping you plan (or spark inspiration) for your next vacation or road trip. 

Are you ready?  Grab your camera and your party pants as things are about to get sporty!

Which Colorful Box Describes You Below?

Michigan Travel Guide Interactive City Map

We created this easy  Interactive Michigan Travel Guide Map  as a visual aid to help you choose a region and then a destination.  See how to use the map below.

Helpful Michigan Map Tips:

• Click on the plus and minus in the left corner to zoom in or out of the map.
• Click on the icons for a link to more information, photos and tips .
• Click on the map to drag and move it to view surrounding areas.
• In the map Header, click on the rectangle in the upper left of the map to see a menu of all the Michigan cities. Click on anything that looks interesting to see where it is on the map. To hide the menu, click the rectangle in the header. 
• In the Header, click on the "square" icon in the upper right side to expand the map for better viewing. 

Keep scrolling for quick links to specific Michigan cities!  

Want Quick Links to Michigan Cities and Destinations?

•  Mt. Pleasant
• Saint Joseph
•  Sleeping Bear Dunes 
• Whitefish Point
• Old Mission Peninsula

Love Camping or Michigan Festivals?

This Michigan Travel Guide has this too!

• Best KOA Campgrounds
• Delicious  Camping Food Ideas  by Camping Enthusiasts!
• Camping Food Hacks
• Current Michigan festivals and events by month

Exciting Michigan Cities, Vacations Destinations, Ideas, Landmarks and Things to Do

Get more inspiration, photos, landmarks and ideas from these popular tourist cities. Includes northern Michigan/Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Discover the Wonders of Alpena

10 Amazing Destinations in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Art Fair is a massive world renown art fair that takes over downtown Ann Arbor each  July ! I go every year as it's incredibly inspiring and festive!

• Also check out Graffiti Alley in downtown Ann Arbor Michigan

Unexpected Surprises in Battle Creek!

Wander, Shop and Explore Bay City

If you are visiting Battle Creek, be sure to stop by Binder Park Zoo , as it is truly one of the best zoos in Michigan!

We love the freely wandering peacocks, trolley to Africa and the open viewing of so many animals.  

Secret Mushroom Houses in Charlevoix

Top Things to See in Cheboygan

See the very cool Mushroom or Hobbit houses in Charlevoix!  Plus more fun in Charlevoix !

Explore Copper Harbor

Top Things to Do in Detroit + Day Trips  

Top 10 Interesting Places In Michigan   

• Hidden locations in Michigan
• Inspiring images to get you traveling!
• Ever been on a pull across river fairy? Climbed Mount Baldhead?

Grab your camera and your party pants as things are about to get sporty!

US News and World Report listed many of these cities as the " Best Places to Visit in Michigan ."

Surprising Hidden Spots in Houghton  

The Party's in Houghton Lake!

“Travel isn’t always pretty. It isn’t always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that’s okay. The journey changes you; it should change you. It leaves marks on your memory, on your consciousness, on your heart, and on your body. You take something with you. Hopefully, you leave something good behind.” – Anthony Bourdain

Isle Royale National Park  is a remote island cluster in Lake Superior  where  moose and wolves roam free . 

Top Things to Do in Kalamazoo

The Ultimate Lansing Day Trip

Explore Leland "Fishtown" 

The Ultimate Guide to Mackinaw City

Click here for the free  Mackinac Island Guide to Everything

Be sure to check out:

• Things to Do on Mackinac Island
• Where to Stay on Mackinac Island  
• Mackinac Island's Hidden Spots!

*TIP: Be sure to use the interactive Michigan Map to see what other cities are close by on your trip so you can maximize your Michigan vacation!

Midland Michigan  

• Tridge (shown left)
• Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest
• Chippewa Nature Center  
• City Forest  

Top Things to Do in Beautiful Port Huron!

Tour the Huron Lightship in Port Huron!

Did you know that Conde' Nast named Saugatuck on their  "Top 25 Beaches in the World? "  Here's more ideas to get you going--> A Guide to Saugatuck

Oh, Did you Hear Screaming?  It's Just Us Careening Down Silver Lake Sand Dunes!

The  Silver Lake area  feels like it's own world...or planet for that matter.  Once you arrive, you'll forget about everything else.  

If you love gettin' a little crazy  on the dunes and love beaches, this place is definitely for you! 

Plan Your Next Michigan Vacation to St. Joseph!

Traverse City is Paradise for Cherry and Wine Lovers!

Visit Michigan's Upper Peninsula

• Best Hiking in the Upper Peninsula
• Tahquamenon Falls
• Upper Peninsula Road Trip
• Upper Peninsula Waterfalls
• Tannery and Memorial Waterfalls
• Kitch-iti-kipi

Michigan's Festivals and Events By Month

We love attending tons of Michigan festivals and events each year!  

We work hard to keep them updated for every month of the year!

We hope this Interactive Michigan Map with awesome Michigan Cities and Towns was helpful in your Michigan Travel and Vacation Planning!

• 6 Luxury Hotels in Michigan!
• The Future of Private Jet Flying and Charters

Pin This Michigan Travel Guide!

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TravelingMichigan

View this post on Instagram If you haven't visited Saugatuck, here's why you need to add this lake town to your spring or summer bucket list. . *Ever been on a Chain Ferry? *Experienced a Duck Boat? *Wheezed, sweated and dragged your carcass to the top of Mt. Baldhead? YEAH, it 's that awesome. *Can you say beaches? *Wandered along a riverwalk with melty ice cream? *What about screamed your head off on a dune ride? . Didn't think so. HOP TO IT. See our crazy a$$ adventures on my bio! (can I say ass or will everyone unfollow us?) I would be sad. ; ( . . . #saugatuck #saugatuckdouglas #saugatuckmi #saugatuckmichigan #thegreatlakesstate #michiganderthreads #onlyinmichigan #Michigan #puremichigan #greatlakesstate #travelingmichigan #michiganders #mittensmitten #michiganaddict #onlyinmichigan #mittenlove #thingstodoinmichigan #michiganoverboard #michigan_wanderlust #capuringmichigan #michiganunsalted #puremichigan #michiganphotographer #michigan_lovers_photos #beachtowns #photooftheday #travel #travelphotography #familytravel A post shared by Michigan Travel+Food Adventure (@travelingmichigan) on Apr 15, 2019 at 1:18pm PDT

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About the Lead Author | Sherry Trautman

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Our Words of Wisdom: “Never follow anyone else’s path. Unless you’re in the woods and you’re lost and you see a path, then by all means follow that path.”

"Sherry & Chris"

We're Sherry and Chris the founders of one of Michigan's most comprehensive and Top Travel Blogs!

Sherry Trautman is a seasoned business owner and a multifaceted content creator, deeply entrenched in the world of travel in Michigan. With her extensive background in writing, editing, photography, marketing, website design, web mastering, social media, and publishing, she is the driving force behind the acclaimed Michigan Travel site "Travel-mi.com." A lifelong Michigander, Sherry's journey began in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan led her to St. Joseph during her formative years, and further to Kalamazoo for her higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Design and Fine Art from Western Michigan University. Her career initially blossomed in Battle Creek, where she contributed significantly to aviation, marketing, and the art industry. In 2018, Sherry, alongside her husband Chris, embarked on a passionate endeavor with the inception of Travel-MI.com. This venture was not just a business but a full-time commitment to exploring and celebrating the diverse landscapes and communities of Michigan. Together, they tirelessly traverse the state, curating unique experiences, capturing stunning visuals, and weaving engaging narratives that showcase Michigan's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty. From her early experiences in different Michigander locales to her extensive professional background, Sherry's life and work epitomize a deep-rooted expertise in Michigan travel, making her an authoritative voice in this niche.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Michigan (MI) » 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Michigan

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Michigan

Originally a French interpretation of an indigenous tribe’s word meaning “large water,” the name Michigan fits this state perfectly. The only state to be comprised of two peninsulas, it is one of the most popular boating destinations in the United States, and with coastlines that stretch along 4 of the 5 Great Lakes, there is plenty to do in Michigan for both beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Take a break from your busy life and disconnect a little. Whether you travel on your own or take a travel partner, take advantage of small town charm and do some shopping, or relax and enjoy nature or a beachfront view!

Check out our list of the 15 best small towns to visit in Michigan for those of you wanting a break from city life or to reconnect with nature.

1. Saugatuck, Michigan

Transformed from a lumber town and port on the Kalamazoo river into an art colony and tourist destination in the late 1800s, this town continues to charm people of all walks of life. Take a stroll and peruse the art galleries, or walk down to the harbor. Spend an afternoon checking out the offbeat shopping opportunities, sneak in a nap on Oval Beach, or take a tour of the Kalamazoo River on the Saugatuck Chain Ferry, which starts at Wick’s Park and goes through the town side of the river. Don’t forget about the many art or music festivals offered throughout the year! If you’re more of an outdoorsy person, check out the view on Mount Baldhead, the Saugatuck Dune State Park or  Allegan State Game Area nearby.

There are plenty of bed and breakfasts, such as the Bayside Inn, offering cozy accommodations, so why not take a trip and relax while also getting a peek into the deeply rooted artistic creativity of this historic lakeside town.

2. Frankenmuth, Michigan

Founded by German Lutheran immigrants in the 1800s, this town is known for its old-fashioned European ambience. Maybe Europe is closer than you think: Franconian-inspired architecture distinguishes Frankenmuth from other midwestern towns. Go for a weekend trip and wander through the Bavarian-style streets. Treat yourself to a few nights away and cross the covered Holz Brucke Bridge (Holz Brucke means wooden bridge in German).

Heritage Park, located off of Weise Street, hosts many festivals and community activities throughout the year. Keeping true to their German roots, Frankenmuth is home to the World Expo of Beer every May, a non-profit beer festival, as well as a more traditional Oktoberfest in October. Or, acquaint yourself with Bavarian culture at the Bavarian Fest, started in 1959. Sample a variety of German foods and desserts, and wash it all down with some beer. An ideal getaway for the German-enthusiast or architecture buff, Frankenmuth is worth the visit.

3. Copper Harbor, Michigan

Located on Lake Superior, Copper Harbor was once a bustling port community, home to one of the more successful and modern copper mines in the 1800s. Nowadays, the harbor is only used for recreational purposes and for a ferry connected to the Isle Royale National Park. Take a walk down to the harbor mouth and see the scenic Copper Harbor Lighthouse, or visit the Fort Wilkins Historic State Park, a former frontier army base that has been restored in recent years.

This historical gem is ideal for both beach and nature lovers. Enjoy the harbor view or venture out of Copper Harbor to explore the surrounding nature at either the Isle Royale National Park or Fort Wilkins. Copper Harbor also offers great biking and hiking trails and a birding festival for wildlife enthusiasts.

4. Hillsdale, Michigan

An idyllic college town and home to Hillsdale College, Hillsdale is nestled into the green, rolling hills of South Central Michigan, at the Indiana and Ohio borders. Known for Hillsdale College founded in the mid 1800s and lauded for its excellent liberal arts programs and political influence, the town offers more than just a bustling university environment: Victorian homes line its beautiful streets, while downtown Hillsdale boasts several cute cafes for the over-caffeinated college students or the tired tourist as well as many eateries and bar/grills.

After strolling through downtown and enjoying the Victorian architecture, check out the historic courthouse or college. Take a hike along the Baw Beese Trail, which passes through Hillsdale and ends at Sandy Beach Park. Enjoy an afternoon at Baw Beese Lake, or rent a bike and continue further along the perimeter of the lake. Take in the more relaxed pace of life and unwind for a few days.

5. Petoskey, Michigan

Located in Northern Michigan and rich in history, this region was first inhabited by indigenous peoples. Petoskey, originally from the language of the Odawa people, means “where the light shines through the clouds.” Originally purchased by an Odawa chief under the Treaty of Washington, westerners started trickling in during the 1800s, first missionaries, then pioneers. As a fun fact, Petoskey has a high quantity of ‘petoskey stones’, the state stone of Michigan.

Explore the cute downtown attractions or the surrounding areas if you are taking a well-deserved escape from humanity. An excellent destination for nature lovers, spend some time at Petoskey State Park, a great location to camp and found on Little Traverse Bay. Other camping options are Camp Pet-O-Se-Ga oarr Wilderness State Park. Enjoy the chance to get away to a town with such a fascinating history. Offering  waterfront views, great nature opportunities, and a rich history, Petoskey is waiting for your visit.

6. Tecumseh, Michigan

Tecumseh is located on the River Raisin, southwest of Detroit. Originally founded in the early 1800s, Tecumseh draws visitors for its famous railroad museum the Southern Michigan Railroad Society, as well as antiquing enthusiasts drawn to the local, amazing, antique dealers. When tired out from your day of perusing unique antiques, relax at one of the many cafes and fine dining establishments located in town. Visit the Antique Street Fair and Flea Market and see what treasures you uncover. For those brave enough to endure the cold, it also hosts the Ice Sculpting Festival in January. If autumn is more your season, check out the Appleumpkin festival in October. Enjoy autumn colors at this fall harvest festival and check out the handmade arts and crafts.

Explore the downtown area with all of its shops and restaurants, or relax at the Hidden Lakes Botanical Gardens and have a glass (or two) at Petamere Winery before continuing your shopping. There are a few bed and breakfasts that will take care of your accommodations during your stay so you can focus on what is important, relaxing and shopping.

7. Cadillac, Michigan

Originally a logging community named Clam Lake, Cadillac is a great destination in northwest Michigan. A perfect getaway for a nature lover, venture outdoors for hunting or fishing at Mitchell State Park. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails, as well as swimming in Lake Mitchell or Lake Cadillac.

If you are not looking for an outdoors adventure, take a stroll around the downtown shopping areas or visit the Wexford County Historical Society and Museum. Get some insight into how people used to live and farm in the area, or attend one of the many events and festivals often hosted here. Finally, for some good ole fun, spend a day at the Adventure Island, Cadillac’s family- friendly amusement park. Good for any and all ages, Cadillac suits people of all interests and pursuits.

8. Mackinac Island, Michigan

If island life is more your style, why not take a trip to Mackinac Island? Located on Lake Huron, this was a key island position for fur traders and a former Odawa settlement. The entire island is a National Historic Landmark and huge efforts have been made to preserve it, including a ban on almost all motorized vehicles.

The island is full of diverse terrain and wildlife: a marine state park, forest, limestone formations, varied and assorted birds, and a beautiful coastline. Treat yourself to a night at the resort, enjoy the diverse architectural style, and visit the downtown shopping and restaurant areas. A virtual blast back to the past, enjoy the tranquility and try some of their famous fudge made right there on the island. If you’re looking for a place to disconnect from modern, everyday life, this would be it.

9. South Haven, Michigan

At the mouth of the Black River and Lake Michigan, South Haven has long been a bustling shipping community because of its port, and is now also a popular destination for tourists because of the beautiful harbor and beaches. But it’s not all just water-based: logging was also formerly popular here and the deforested areas continue to be used as farmland and vineyards. South Haven also is home to a well-known Maritime museum for the sailors, so check out the marina or The Michigan Maritime Museum. If you want to stay active and outdoors, there is the Kal-Haven trail that is popular with bicyclists and snowmobilers.

Regardless of your preferred pastimes or the time of year of your visit, everyone will be charmed by the town activities: pick your own fruit in the summertime, visit the yummy blueberry festival, or take a hayride and drink some cider at a local pumpkin farm. End your nights out on the town at the quality restaurants or enjoying the music festivals and live theatre offered year-round.

10. Paradise/Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan

A tiny township at the shore of Lake Superior, near the eastern point of Whitefish Bay, Paradise is a gateway to the spectacular Tahquamenon Falls. A perfect, rural getaway for outdoor lovers, visit for a peaceful trip to get reacquainted with Mother Nature. Visit the historic Whitefish Point Lighthouse, one of the first of its kind on Lake Superior, and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum to better understand the historical significance of this lighthouse.

Take some time to explore the spectacular scenery around Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Unspoiled beauty is begging to be explored. Make sure to visit both the upper and lower falls and walk along the Tahquamenon River. Boat and canoe rentals are also available, as are miles of hiking trails. You can stay overnight at a campsite or return to Paradise for in-town lodgings.

11. Traverse City, Michigan

Located in the north, Traverse City offers diversion and activities year-round. A perfect town for foodies, check out the many upscale restaurants this town has to offer. Be sure to visit their wine trails, wineries and microbreweries beforehand though, to find the perfect pairing for your food craving. A perfect way to end the tasting tours is to visit one of the festivals or music performances downtown.

Walk off the libation and food at one of the many hikes surrounding Traverse City, or explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Nap on the beach, try your hand at biking or fishing, and when you’ve recharged a bit, head back into town to top off your stay with another great culinary or shopping experience. Rinse, sleep, and repeat.

12. Charlevoix, Michigan

Between the western end of Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan, Round Lake, at the center of the town, runs into a channel that drains into Lake Michigan and this lake access makes Charlevoix a crux for major boating traffic in the area. Regardless of its strategic importance, this was a one stoplight town until a second stoplight was installed in the 1980s, adding authenticity to its small-town feeling.

This quaint sentiment is preserved in the town dubbed locally as “Charlevoix the Beautiful.” Tucked between two lakes and green forests, there is plenty to keep you busy in the heart of downtown: walk along the canal, play a few rounds of golf at the local courses. Be sure to spend some time in nature and check out Charlevoix Lake and Beaver Island, or stay in town and visit the local fruit orchards, Crooked Tree Arts Center, or the many parks and art galleries downtown.

13. Ludington, Michigan

Built at the mouth of the Pere Marquette River where it meets Lake Michigan, Ludington is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Michigan. Surrounded by Lake Michigan, Hamlin Lake and many other smaller lakes, this is an ideal trip for those who love to sail or fish, or do any water activities. Visit the nearby Ludington State Park, Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness or Manistee National Forest to hike or relax away from modern life.

Back in town, enjoy participating in a local tradition and walk down to the Ludington Lighthouse to watch the passenger ferry between the town and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, the SS Badger, come back home each evening and catch the sun as it sets over Lake Michigan. Learn something new for that next trip to the beach and stop in at the Children’s Sandcastle Museum. Stop by in the summer to attend the West Shore Art League’s Art Fair, run the Lakestride Half Marathon, or check out their many other attractions that run all year.

14. Marshall, Michigan

Marshall, Michigan has been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places for its well-preserved examples of 19th century American architecture and boasts one of the largest National Historic Landmark Districts. Deeply rooted in American history, Marshall has played a role in turning points in history such as the Underground Railroad when the townspeople helped to protect families of runaway slaves from slave catchers.

Take a walk through history in their historic downtown and visit any of their 8 museums. Don’t miss the famous Honolulu House, built by a former justice of the Michigan Supreme Court. Or, put your feet up and have a drink at the Dark House Brewery, known for its seasonal and experimental brews. If the nostalgia for the past still carries over, try the Backroads Saloon for a cool drink and continue to reminisce about the “good old days”.

15. Colon, Michigan

Colon is located in Southern Michigan and flanked by two lakes, Long Lake and Palmer Lake. Many have speculated over its name: whether it has something to do with English grammar or if it is really named after Colon, Panama. Regardless of the origin of its unique name, Colon becomes even more intriguing when you realize that it is called the the “Magical Capital of the World.””. Home to the Abbott Magic Company, it is also the burial grounds for many famous musicians such as Harry Blackstone, Sr.

Come visit if you’re an aspiring magician and check out the weekly magic performances or the MagiCelibration Magic Festival. Magicians or common folk alike will enjoy all the magical fantasy and the 4-day “Abbott’s Magic Get Together” magic convention. Even the locals embrace the magical reputation: the local high school mascot is a white rabbit wearing a black top hat and many of the shops downtown incorporate the word “magic” into their names.

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Michigan:

• Saugatuck, Michigan
• Frankenmuth, Michigan
• Copper Harbor, Michigan
• Hillsdale, Michigan
• Petoskey, Michigan
• Tecumseh, Michigan
• Cadillac, Michigan
• Mackinac Island, Michigan
• South Haven, Michigan
• Paradise/Tahquamenon Falls, Michigan
• Traverse City, Michigan
• Charlevoix, Michigan
• Ludington, Michigan
• Marshall, Michigan
• Colon, Michigan

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13 Best Small Towns in Michigan for a Charming Midwest Getaway

From wineries and arts to beaches and outdoor recreation, these small towns in Michigan have something for everyone.

Michigan truly has it all, from exciting cities to gorgeous natural wonders to plenty of watery delights along its Great Lakes coastline. Among its wealth of offerings, this Midwestern state also boasts a slew of charming towns on its two peninsulas. These pint-sized destinations — each with a population under 10,000 — are brimming with beautiful views, charming hotels, and family-friendly outdoor adventures.

If you're planning a trip to the Wolverine State, here are the 13 best small towns in Michigan.

With a population under 500, Leland packs a big tourism punch for such a small town. Located on Michigan's pinky and straddling two beautiful bodies of water — Lake Leelanau and Lake Michigan — this coastal gem shines all year long. Check out Fishtown, home to historic fishing shanties that now house cool small businesses. (Tip: Don't miss the life-changing sandwiches at Village Cheese Shanty in this area or the scenic ferry trip to the Manitou Islands.) Nearby, visitors can find great souvenirs at Leland Gal and sample locally grown wine from the Leelanau Peninsula at Verterra Winery .

Copper Country is a can't-miss part of Michigan, and Calumet is a great base for exploring the region. This small Michigan town is located about 30 miles southwest of Copper Harbor at the very tip of Keweenaw Peninsula, famed for its rugged beauty and Lake Superior shores. The wild Upper Peninsula is renowned for its outdoor adventure offerings, and this destination certainly delivers hiking trails and craggy coastline aplenty. Don't skip Keweenaw National Historical Park , which pays homage to Calumet's storied copper mining age.

New Buffalo

About 70 miles from downtown Chicago , New Buffalo is part of the upscale southwestern shore towns of Harbor Country, sometimes called "the Hamptons of the Midwest." Those looking to imbibe can check out nearby wineries on the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail — New Buffalo is its southern terminus. This small beach town offers stunning Lake Michigan views, so get out on the water with New Buffalo Sailing Excursions or Third Coast Paddling . Alternatively, consider checking out the massive public beach. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the marshy wetlands and boardwalk hikes at Galien River County Park .

Mackinac Island

One of Travel + Leisure readers' favorite islands in the continental U.S. , this "Jewel of the Great Lakes" rests in Lake Huron, between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas. A beyond-charming, car-free spot, Mackinac Island has been a tourism destination for decades. While here, experience Gilded Age elegance at the Grand Hotel , a National Historic Landmark. Guests can enjoy an architecture walk through the West Bluff cottages or a themed lecture with the on-staff historian. While in town, consider sampling some of the famed Mackinac Island fudge (on its own or in ice cream form). Travelers can also experience a sunrise paddle with Great Turtle Kayak Tours , a welcome alternative to the island's bustling bike path.

Located on the scenic shores of Lake Huron on Michigan's eastern side, Tawas City is home to approximately 1,800 residents. This escape is ideal for travelers seeking tranquility, with a mix of small-town charm and outdoor offerings. Tawas City visitors can enjoy a stroll along the pier, take a wine and hops trail tour , and soak in the natural beauty of Michigan's Sunrise Coast at nearby Tawas Point State Park , which has been called "the Cape Cod of the Midwest" because of its peninsular location.

Grand Marais

Though not as well-known as its Minnesotan cousin of the same name, Grand Marais is another waterfront town on Lake Superior. A true gem of the Upper Peninsula, this historic village encompasses more than 50 miles of Great Lakes shoreline. Highlights range from waterfalls and lighthouses to hiking and biking trails. Grab an epic photo at one of the best scenic spots on Lake Superior — the Log Slide overlook at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore — and learn about lighthouse history at the Light Keeper's House Museum .

Another hot spot in western Michigan, Saugatuck has something for everyone, with six beaches, a thriving art scene, and breweries. This small town is part of the "art coast" of Michigan. Regional highlights include the Saugatuck Center for the Arts , Waterfront Invitational Art Fair , and Ox-Bow School of Art . Stop into Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions for thoughtful farm-to-table fare or the James Beard-nominated Southerner , which, true to its name, serves up Southern hospitality and cuisine.

An old Hemingway haunt, Petoskey is one of the best small towns in Michigan and the entire Midwest . Quintessential activities include hunting for Petoskey stones (actually fossilized coral) at Petoskey State Park , exploring Michigan's AVA region, and sampling local preserves at beloved American Spoon . Consider a stay at Hotel Walloon , which takes its name from the nearby lake and was voted the best resort in the Midwest of 2023  by T+L readers.

Munising is the gateway to the Upper Peninsula's most-visited sites: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and the Hiawatha National Forest . Adventure seekers will appreciate the endless opportunities for kayaking, hiking, camping, ice climbing, chasing waterfalls , and more. This town of less than 2,000 is also noteworthy for its pasties , a Michigan delicacy; Lake Superior whitefish tacos at The Duck Pond Eatery & Beer Garden ; and local sips from ByGeorge Brewing Co.

Only accessible by boat or plane, this small town on Beaver Island — the largest island in Lake Michigan — is a bit of a challenge to reach. Still, it's well worth a visit, thanks to the iconic Beaver Island Harbor Lighthouse and Beaver Island Marine Museum . Consider an overnight stay at the Beaver Island Retreat , one of the most incredible glamping spots around, and grab a delicious bagel breakfast sandwich from Dalwhinnie Bakery & Deli the following day.

Visitors to Empire will find panoramic coastline views, immersive trails, and dark skies for stargazing. It lies in the center of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , which is known for having the highest bluffs in all of Lake Michigan, rising 450 feet above the glistening blue waters. Hike the short Empire Bluff Trail through the beech and maple forest for epic views, or rent a paddleboard or kayak from Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak . For those who prefer to sightsee from the comfort of their vehicle, the well-marked Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive provides an excellent overview of the area.

Frankenmuth

For a place packed with Bavarian hospitality, look no further than the small town of Frankenmuth. While this destination is a popular stop in the winter, thanks to its charming Hallmark holiday-movie feel, Frankenmuth offers year-round attractions, too, including eclectic shopping, historical attractions, and outdoor adventures. Come summer, consider the sprawling zip lines and aerial ropes course at the Frankenmuth Aerial Park . Fall brings Oktoberfest , a classic German beer celebration. In the wintertime, shop at the ChristKindlMarkt , inspired by Europe's famous Christmas markets . Spring, meanwhile, is ideal for reflecting on the past at the Frankenmuth Historical Museum .

St. Ignace may be best known for its ferry access to Mackinac Island, which connects the Upper Peninsula to the popular tourist hub. But this tiny destination has a bevy of historic attractions , stunning beaches, and outdoor fun, too. Unique experiences are plentiful, like shipwreck scuba diving in the Straits of Mackinac and checking out the sights from the stunning Castle Rock viewpoint . Hikers can also access the North Country Trail , one of just 11 National Scenic Trails.

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Michigan tourist attractions

Michigan City Tourist Attractions: Exploring the Best Sights and Activities

Short answer: Michigan City Tourist Attractions

Michigan City, located in the state of Indiana, offers numerous tourist attractions. Prominent sights include the Indiana Dunes National Park, Washington Park and Zoo, Lighthouse Outlet Mall, Blue Chip Casino, and the Old Lighthouse Museum. Visitors can also enjoy recreational activities like boating, fishing, and hiking in this vibrant city on Lake Michigan’s southern shore.

Exploring Michigan City: Top Tourist Attractions and Must-See Destinations

Exploring Michigan City: A Delightful Journey through Top Tourist Attractions and Must-See Destinations

Welcome to the captivating world of Michigan City, where every corner is an invitation to discover its rich history, natural wonders, and vibrant culture . Whether you’re a curious traveler or a local looking for exciting experiences close to home, this charming city has plenty to offer. So fasten your seatbelts as we embark on a memorable journey through some of Michigan City’s top tourist attractions and must-see destinations.

1. Stunning Indiana Dunes National Park: Prepare to be awe-struck by the breathtaking beauty of Indiana Dunes National Park. With 15,000 acres of pristine sand dunes, lush forests, and shimmering beaches along Lake Michigan’s shore, this national park offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures and serene relaxation. Explore the network of hiking trails, take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on the sandy shores while soaking in the glorious views.

2. The Historic Lighthouse Museum: Immerse yourself in the maritime heritage of Michigan City by visiting the iconic Old Lighthouse Museum. Built-in 1858, this historic landmark stands tall as a testament to navigation history on Lake Michigan. Step inside and explore fascinating exhibits that showcase artifacts from shipwrecks, lighthouse keepers’ stories, and glimpse into the region’s maritime past. Don’t forget to climb up to the top for panoramic views that will leave you breathless.

3. Washington Park Zoo: Calling all animal lovers ! Make your way to Washington Park Zoo – a hidden gem nestled within Michigan City’s scenic surroundings. From playful monkeys swinging from trees to majestic lions prowling their domain, this zoo houses over 90 species waiting for you to discover them all. Take a leisurely stroll through beautifully landscaped pathways as you witness creatures from around the world up close.

4. Blue Chip Casino: If you’re feeling lucky or simply seeking a night of entertainment, head to Blue Chip Casino. This vibrant hub offers endless possibilities with its exciting gaming options, top-notch live entertainment, and a variety of dining choices. Whether you’re testing your luck at the slot machines or enjoying a thrilling game of poker, Blue Chip Casino guarantees an evening filled with excitement and unforgettable memories.

5. Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets: Attention shoppers! Prepare for an unforgettable retail therapy experience at Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets. Indulge in some much-deserved retail therapy as you peruse through renowned brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Coach, and many more. With over 120 stores offering incredible discounts, this open-air shopping destination is perfect for finding that one-of-a-kind treasure at a bargain price.

6. Michigan City Mainstreet Association: For those seeking an authentic local experience and a chance to support small businesses, a visit to the Michigan City Mainstreet Association is a must. Stroll along the charming streets lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, cozy cafes, and delectable restaurants offering flavors from various cuisines . Discover handmade crafts by talented artisans or savor locally sourced culinary delights – this vibrant downtown area has something for everyone.

In conclusion, Michigan City invites wanderers from all walks of life to embark on an unforgettable journey through its top tourist attractions and must-see destinations. From stunning natural wonders to captivating historical sites and vibrant city life – every corner promises a discovery worth cherishing. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and let Michigan City enchant you with its beauty and charm

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Michigan City: Unveiling its Hidden Gems and Famous Landmarks

Heading: Explore the Charm of Michigan City: Unveiling Hidden Gems and Iconic Landmarks

Introduction: Welcome to the beautiful Michigan City, a hidden gem nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan. This enchanting city is brimming with rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the must-visit attractions and lesser-known treasures that will help you make the most of your visit to this Midwestern paradise.

1. Discover Serenity at Washington Park: Start your exploration by immersing yourself in the tranquility offered by Washington Park. Spanning over 120 acres, this picturesque park boasts scenic trails, pristine beaches, playgrounds for children, and even a zoo! Marvel at towering sand dunes or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Washington Park Zoo, where you can get up close and personal with fascinating animal species from around the world .

2. Indulge in Retail Therapy at Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets: Shopaholics rejoice! Michigan City is home to one of Indiana’s premier shopping destinations – Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets. With over 100 stores offering designer brands at discounted prices, this retail haven is sure to satisfy all your fashion cravings. From high-end labels to popular household brands, you’ll find everything here.

3. Immerse Yourself in History at Old Lighthouse Museum: Step back in time as you explore the Old Lighthouse Museum located on Washington Park grounds. Housed within an actual lighthouse built in 1858, this museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that depict maritime history and illuminate its significance to the region’s development. Climb up to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Michigan.

4. Quench Your Thirst at Local Breweries: Michigan City’s craft beer scene has boomed in recent years, offering visitors a chance to sample some of the finest brews in the Midwest. Pay a visit to local breweries such as Zorn Brew Works and Shoreline Brewery, where you can indulge in unique flavors crafted by passionate brewmasters using the finest ingredients. Experience the warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere that accompanies this thriving beer culture .

5. Lose Yourself in Artistic Expression at Lubeznik Center for the Arts: Art enthusiasts will be captivated by a visit to the Lubeznik Center for the Arts. Located in a historic mansion, this contemporary art center showcases rotating exhibits featuring both local and international talent . Whether you appreciate paintings, sculptures, or mixed media creations, this artistic haven has something for everyone. Attend workshops and seminars conducted by renowned artists or simply wander through the galleries to immerse yourself in creativity.

Conclusion: Michigan City is an irresistible blend of hidden gems and iconic landmarks that deserve your attention when visiting this charming city. From tranquil parks to historical lighthouses, from authentic craft beer to awe-inspiring art centers – there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences awaiting you here. So pack your bags, get ready for an adventure like no other, and let Michigan City unveil its wonders as you make memories that will last a lifetime.

Michigan City Tourist Attractions: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Planning an Amazing Trip

Welcome to the beautiful state of Michigan! Home to stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and a rich history, Michigan has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun-filled trip, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable journey through some of the best Michigan city tourist attractions.

Step 1: Choose Your Base City Michigan is blessed with several incredible cities that serve as great starting points for your exploration . Detroit, nicknamed the Motor City, offers a vibrant urban experience with its world-class museums like The Henry Ford and the Detroit Institute of Arts. Ann Arbor boasts a bustling cultural scene with stunning architecture and prestigious institutions such as the University of Michigan. Grand Rapids is known for its flourishing art and beer scenes, making it an ideal choice for art lovers and craft beer enthusiasts alike.

Step 2: Experience Magical Moments in Lake Michigan’s Beach Towns A perfect summer getaway awaits you at Lake Michigan’s beach towns. Traverse City is famous for its cherry orchards and wineries where you can indulge in delectable treats while enjoying breathtaking views of the lake . For adventure seekers, head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – climb towering sand dunes or kayak along crystal-clear waters .

Step 3: Marvel at Majestic Mackinac Island No trip to Michigan is complete without visiting Mackinac Island. This car-free haven takes you back in time to experience life as it was in the late 19th century. Explore historic sites like Fort Mackinac or rent a bike to leisurely pedal around the island while taking in picturesque views of Lake Huron.

Step 4: Discover Pure Bliss on the Upper Peninsula Crossing over the awe-inspiring Mackinac Bridge leads you to another world – Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (UP). Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore showcases colorful cliffs contrasting against Lake Superior’s vivid blue hues. Immerse yourself in nature by hiking trails, kayaking, or embarking on a scenic boat tour .

Step 5: Unearth Detroit’s Hidden Gems Back in the city, delve into the vibrant soul of Detroit. Explore the revitalized Eastern Market – one of the largest historic markets in the United States – and savor delicious local cuisine . Dive into Motown history at the Motown Museum and discover hits that once rocked the world . Don’t forget to catch a game at Comerica Park or Ford Field if you’re a sports enthusiast!

Step 6: Embrace Ann Arbor’s Cultural Charm Art galleries, theaters, bookstores, and sidewalk cafes galore – Ann Arbor embodies cultural richness . Stroll along Main Street to find unique boutiques or visit charming Kerrytown Market and Shops for fresh local produce. If visiting during autumn , take advantage of Football Saturdays and cheer alongside passionate Wolverines fans at Michigan Stadium.

Step 7: Immerse Yourself in Grand Rapids’ Creativity Known as “Beer City USA,” Grand Rapids will captivate you with its flourishing craft beer scene . While exploring this vibrant city, don’t miss the countless art exhibits throughout downtown and Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park – an oasis where nature is seamlessly blended with stunning sculptures.

With this step-by-step guide to Michigan city tourist attractions, you’ll have an amazing trip filled with unforgettable experiences. From exploring Detroit’s hidden gems to marveling at natural wonders like Sleeping Bear Dunes or Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Michigan has it all! So pack your bags, embrace adventure, and get ready to create lifelong memories in the breathtaking state of Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan City’s Tourist Attractions: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Welcome to our blog post where we dive deep into frequently asked questions about Michigan City’s tourist attractions. We understand that planning a trip can be overwhelming, so we’re here to provide you with everything you need to know before you go. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie looking for unique dining experiences, Michigan City has something special for everyone. So let’s jump right in and explore the wonders this charming city has to offer!

1. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Michigan City? Michigan City boasts a range of captivating tourist attractions that will leave you awe-struck. One unmissable gem is the historic Old Lighthouse Museum, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan. For nature lovers, Washington Park should be on your list – it’s home to beautiful beaches, picnic spots, and even a zoo! Don’t forget about the iconic Blue Chip Casino if you’re feeling lucky and looking for some entertainment amidst dazzling lights and thrilling games .

2. Are there any hidden gems in Michigan City? Absolutely! While the popular attractions are fantastic, exploring hidden gems will add an extra touch of adventure to your trip. Journeying out to Barker Mansion takes you back in time through its stunning architecture and rich history as one of Indiana’s grandest homes. The Pullman National Monument is another hidden treasure where you can learn about the labor movement while discovering beautifully preserved cottages and gardens.

3. What is unique about Michigan City’s dining scene? Michigan City prides itself on offering diverse dining options that cater to all taste buds. For those seeking culinary excellence paired with water views, Bentwood Tavern serves up mouthwatering dishes made out of locally sourced ingredients. Additionally, Shoreline Brewery stands out with its handcrafted beer selection perfect for beer enthusiasts looking for tasty brews .

4. Can I engage in outdoor activities during my visit ? Absolutely! Whether you are into water sports, hiking, or simply embracing nature, Michigan City has got your adventure cravings covered. Indiana Dunes National Park should be at the top of your list if you’re seeking stunning sand dunes and beautiful trails offering breathtaking vistas. Want to explore Lake Michigan? Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard from one of the local outfitters. You can also hop aboard a sailing tour and let the wind carry you as you take in the scenic surroundings.

5. What is the best time to visit Michigan City? The beauty of Michigan City transcends seasons, but summer is undoubtedly when it truly shines. Warm temperatures allow you to fully enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities on offer. During fall, witness Mother Nature’s paintbrush as she turns leaves into vibrant hues around Indiana Dunes State Park. For those who embrace winter wonderlands, snowy months provide an opportunity for cross-country skiing or even ice fishing on Lake Michigan.

In conclusion, Michigan City’s tourist attractions cater to all interests and bring joy to every visitor. From historical landmarks to stunning natural beauty, this city has it all. So pack your bags with excitement and prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey filled with remarkable sights, delicious food experiences, thrilling adventures – everything that makes travel so captivating! Don’t forget to take plenty of photos and make everlasting memories in this hidden gem nestled along Lake Michigan’s shores known as Michigan City!

The Charm of Michigan City: Discovering the Best Tourist Attractions for Culture Lovers, Foodies, and Nature Enthusiasts

Michigan City, located on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, is a hidden gem for culture lovers, foodies, and nature enthusiasts alike. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, delectable culinary offerings, and stunning natural landscapes – this charming city has something to offer everyone.

For culture lovers, Michigan City boasts a plethora of attractions that will leave you captivated and inspired. The Lubeznik Center for the Arts is a must-visit destination, showcasing contemporary art exhibits that push boundaries and ignite creativity. Its modern architecture itself is a work of art! The Barker Mansion is another cultural treasure; step back in time as you explore this luxurious 19th-century mansion and learn about the history of the influential Barker family. And don’t forget to catch a show at the intimate Footlight Players Theater – their performances are sure to leave you entertained and engaged.

Now let’s talk about food! Michigan City offers an impressive array of dining options that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Start your day with a delicious brunch at Sketchbook Café; their locally sourced ingredients and innovative menu will have your taste buds begging for more. Craving some mouthwatering seafood? Visit Bridges Waterside Grille where you can indulge in fresh catches from Lake Michigan while enjoying panoramic views of the marina. And for dessert enthusiasts, stop by Ben’s Soft Pretzels – these warm, buttery delights are an absolute treat !

Nature enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise when exploring the natural wonders surrounding Michigan City. Washington Park Beach offers sandy shores as far as the eye can see – perfect for sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip in Lake Michigan’s crystal-clear waters on those hot summer days. Take a leisurely stroll along Trail Creek at Friendship Botanic Gardens; this peaceful oasis features enchanting gardens full of blooming flowers and tranquil ponds inhabited by unique wildlife species . For those seeking adventure, check out Indiana Dunes State Park – with its towering sand dunes, scenic trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking, this park promises an unforgettable experience .

But the charm of Michigan City extends beyond its attractions . The warm and welcoming locals will make you feel right at home, adding to the overall allure of this hidden gem on the shores of Lake Michigan. With its perfect blend of culture, culinary delights, and natural beauty – a visit to Michigan City is sure to be an enriching and unforgettable experience.

So whether you’re a culture lover looking for artistic inspiration, a foodie in search of gastronomic delights, or a nature enthusiast seeking adventure – let Michigan City captivate your heart and soul with its unique charm. Pack your bags and get ready to discover the best tourist attractions that this enchanting city has to offer!

Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Vacation in Michigan City: Unlocking the Secrets of its Remarkable Tourist Attractions

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable vacation in Michigan City? Get ready to unlock the secrets of this remarkable destination as we reveal insider tips that will make your trip even more memorable. From stunning natural wonders to fascinating historical sites and everything in between, Michigan City has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and let’s dive into the hidden treasures of this extraordinary city.

One of the must-visit attractions in Michigan City is the breathtaking Indiana Dunes National Park. Spanning 15,000 acres along Lake Michigan’s shores, this natural wonderland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts . Hiking trails wind through lush forests, rolling sand dunes, and pristine beaches, offering endless opportunities for adventure and exploration . Insider tip: For a truly unforgettable experience, head out early in the morning to catch the sunrise over Lake Michigan – it’s a sight you’ll never forget.

If you’re a history buff, you can’t miss a visit to the Old Lighthouse Museum. This iconic landmark has stood watch over Lake Michigan since 1858 and now serves as a museum chronicling its rich maritime history. Take a guided tour to learn about shipwrecks, lighthouse keepers’ lives, and fascinating tales from days gone by. Insider tip: Climb to the top of the lighthouse tower for panoramic views that will leave you breathless.

For those seeking some retail therapy or unique souvenirs, a visit to Washington Park Plaza is essential . This charming downtown area is home to an array of boutique shops, art galleries, and local eateries. Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with Victorian-era buildings while discovering hidden gems at every corner. Insider tip: Keep an eye out for local artisans and craftsmen selling handmade treasures – they make perfect keepsakes from your trip.

No trip to Michigan City would be complete without sampling its culinary delights. Make sure to indulge in some local favorites like Michigan City’s famous thin-crust pizza or savory seafood caught fresh from Lake Michigan. Insider tip: Check out the Farmer’s Market for a wide variety of local, organic produce and delicious treats – it’s a food lover’s paradise .

For the thrill-seekers and gamers, Blue Chip Casino is an absolute must-visit. This Vegas-style casino offers endless entertainment options, from high-stakes gambling to live shows and luxurious spa treatments. Whether you’re feeling lucky or simply want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, this attraction guarantees a good time. Insider tip: Sign up for the rewards program and take advantage of exclusive discounts and promotions.

As your unforgettable vacation in Michigan City comes to an end, remember to take some time to relax and unwind at one of the city’s beautiful beaches. Miles of sandy shores are perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the sound of crashing waves. Don’t forget your sunscreen! Insider tip: If you’re looking for a less crowded beach experience, head to nearby New Buffalo Beach – it’s just a short drive away.

Michigan City truly is a destination that offers something for everyone. From natural wonders to cultural gems and thrilling adventures, this hidden gem has it all. By discovering its secrets with these insider tips, you’ll unlock an unforgettable vacation full of remarkable experiences. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready for the journey of a lifetime in beautiful Michigan City!

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Michigan Governor’s Summer Residence Reviews: Unveiling the Ultimate Vacation Destination

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Letter from the Editor: You love Michigan’s wonders – so expect more great travel coverage this summer

• Updated: May. 01, 2024, 10:24 p.m. |
• Published: May. 01, 2024, 8:00 p.m.

A patrol boat speeds past Miners Castle at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on Lake Superior near Munising, Mich., May 18, 2022. (Garret Ellison | MLive)

• John Hiner | [email protected]

When we launched MLive Media Group in 2012, our unofficial motto was “Follow the audience.” We meant we would cover topics in which our readers showed interest. What we didn’t expect is that we would be literally following our audience.

We quickly found that we followed our audience kayaking at Pictured Rocks or wine tasting in Traverse City or walking under the canopy of trees in the Irish Hills. Our readers led us to understand this is the best place to be for travel.

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As summer nears, state tourism businesses pin hopes on winning more Pure Michigan funding

As Michigan gears up for another summer tourism season, businesses are hoping to cash in on what they expect will be strong demand throughout the state.

On Mackinac Island, visitors will notice numerous changes, including a two-year restoration at the Grand Hotel and the reopening of the Inn at Stonecliffe following a two-year, $30 million, property-wide transformation. In the Traverse City area, four hotels are expected to open in the next year to accommodate additional out-of-town guests in the popular tourist spot along Lake Michigan.

Operators are hopeful the summer season will be better for tourism in the state after emerging from a mild winter that negatively impacted snow-related businesses, particularly ski hills and nearby lodging. Hospitality and tourism leaders, meanwhile, are seeking the funding they say the state’s Pure Michigan campaign needs to keep visitors — and revenue — flowing into the state.

“We have the best state and I know we have the best campaign,” said Justin Winslow, president and CEO of the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association. “We just need to make sure it's in front of as many eyeballs as possible.”

Pushing for promotion funds

Officials with Travel Michigan said earlier this month that results from the state’s Pure Michigan campaign show that travel is on par with pre-pandemic numbers and consistent with national trends. A group of hospitality and tourism leaders would like to keep that momentum going.

Earlier this year, the Michigan Hospitality & Tourism Alliance was formed from a collaboration of statewide and regional organizations seeking to boost funding for the state’s Pure Michigan campaign. The alliance is seeking $50 million for the fiscal year, which would more than triple the current funding.

“We as an industry maybe have become a little more disparate since the pandemic,” said Winslow, a founding leader of the alliance. “We all fought individual battles and had such an existential threat to hospitality, travel and tourism overall. We all went back to our own corners just out of survival instincts. And I don't think we were all communicating what we needed to for the success of all of us overall, and it shows up most notably in what happened to the Pure Michigan budget."

The effort has found some support. On Thursday, the Michigan House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Economic Development, and Lifelong Learning, chaired by Rep. Will Snyder, D-Muskegon, proposed a $40 million budget for Pure Michigan.

Pure Michigan's tourism advertising funding has decreased to about $15 million from roughly $40 million during the past two budget cycles, Winslow said: “That's just far short, I think, of what's necessary to meet the demand out there and the infrastructure that we've created as a state.

“And so I think we're leaving a lot of money on the table for Michiganders by not investing more in the Pure Michigan tourism campaign. And the alliance is trying to create a more unified and hopefully powerful place to make that message heard.”

Earlier this year, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed $20 million for the Make it in Michigan Competitiveness Fund “to build off the iconic Pure Michigan campaign, on top of the $15 million in existing funding for the program, with a focus on talent attraction, labor retention and relocating to Michigan.” It is unclear if any of those dollars would be spent on promotional spending.

The alliance also announced earlier this year the creation of a bipartisan, bicameral “Hospitality & Tourism Caucus" that will work with the alliance to better understand challenges and opportunities impacting the industry. Those members include state Sen. John Damoose, R-Harbor Springs; Sen. Kevin Hertel, D-St. Clair Shores; Rep. Will Snyder, D-Muskegon, and Rep. Nancy DeBoer, R-Holland.

“The travel, tourism and hospitality industry drives the Michigan economy, and nowhere is this more true than in my District in northern Michigan and the Eastern U.P.,” said Damoose, the caucus co-chair, in a statement. “Given the unique challenges faced by this industry in the past several years — from Covid to regulatory burdens — it is critical that legislators come together to help.”

A 2024 SMARInsights Advertising Effectiveness Research for Pure Michigan report released this month showed that Pure Michigan advertising influenced more than 1.5 million leisure trips to Michigan from the national, regional and in-state markets targeted by the campaign. The report showed that out of the $16.9 million spent on advertising in 2023, Michigan saw a return of $9.21 in state tax revenue for each $1 invested.

“I guess it just goes to show that if there’s less advertising, we’ll have to rely on other means to fight for potential business loss,” said Tim Hygh, CEO of Mackinac Island Tourism.

The campaign also has an impact for Metro Detroit, said Christopher Moyer of Visit Detroit, an alliance member: "Every dollar that comes from Chicago to Detroit is one dollar that didn't exist in our economy before but now is here."

Moyer said the requested $50 million is a small fraction of the state’s overall budget — $82 billion for the current fiscal year — and “returns 10X back for communities throughout the state, for small businesses, for union workers, for the hotel workers in the city of Detroit who are part of the Unite Here labor union. They go to work because of visitors.”

Investing in upgrades

On Mackinac Island, businesses are hoping for another strong year when the island opens in May. Among the latest projects is the $30 million transformation of the Inn at Stonecliffe. The property will welcome guests starting in June.

The former mansion, built in 1904, and its 150-acre estate have had numerous uses over the years, including as a ski resort, college and hotel.

The Pulte Family Charitable Foundation took ownership of the property in fall 2022, closed it and restored the mansion, refreshed the summer house and added three three-bedroom cottages and a fourth one-bedroom cottage, said Kevin Doyle, the foundation's chief operating officer.

“All the rooms are kind of a custom bespoke feel,” he said. “In the mansion, there's 16 rooms. Every one of them is different. The summer house, there's 32 rooms. Every floor has a different feel. The mansion is more of a romantic charm feel. And the summer houses is a little brighter family, cheerful feel, if you will.”

The foundation also added a wellness center, two pools, a barbecue pavilion and a four-season event venue overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. The foundation acquired the nearby apple orchard and plans to offer beekeeping lessons and apple picking, Doyle said.

In Grand Traverse County, four hotels are expected to open this year or early next year, including an Avid hotel and a Fairfield Inn, said Trevor Tkach, president and CEO of Traverse City Tourism.

“I think that’s the testament to the commitment and the belief that demand will continue to grow for destinations like Traverse City,” he said. The area held its first International Fireworks Championship in 2023, and will expand this year as a two-day event. Another draw is the nearly 50 wineries in the region.

In Grand Rapids, Doug Small, president and CEO of Experience Grand Rapids, said they are projecting a 1.5% to 3% increase in visitors this year based on a leveling-off of room rates and occupancy: "What I like to say is, 'let's manage expectations.' Because ‘22 and ‘23 were so good … You can't grow that every year. You can maybe maintain it. So we maintain it through this year, or even increase by 1%, that's still a really good year.”

At Brys Estate in Traverse City, Patrick Brys said his family-owned winery is pretty well-staffed for the summer season. The year-round staff hovers around 25 employees. At peak times, the winery employs about 100 people.

The 155-acre property includes a winery, 44 acres of grapes, a guest house and a "secret garden" with 6,000 lavender plants. Business at the winery is up from pre-pandemic levels, with 1,000 daily visitors during peak times.

“People coming up can choose from a lot of different activities as far as wine tasting or specialized wine tours that take people out in the vineyard on stretch golf carts we call our wine wagons,” he said. “Obviously, they can visit our secret garden and lavender operation. And there's picnic areas down there. They can browse a lot of the products that are made from all the distilling of the lavender oils.”

Staffing up for summer

Hiring is also on the minds of tourist destinations and seasonal venues throughout the state. Mackinac Island needs about 5,000 workers on the island every year, Hygh said, with about 1,200 coming to work through H-2B guest worker visa.

“Our members will put an enormous effort in to get by. I think we're going to be fine," he said. "There's nothing that sticks out this year that shows that we would be down, but we continue to just keep advocating and fighting for more H-2B visas. That’s a constant.”

At Rare Bird Brewpub in Traverse City, co-founder Tina Schuett said they are preparing for an influx of visitors as the weather warms. People are drawn to the food and beer scene as well as nearby natural attractions, such as Sleeping Bear Dunes.

To accommodate extra visitors, the pub will expand beyond its year-round staff of 30 to about 40.

“We hire some seasonal staff, usually younger people, high school or college filling some of those gaps that we need just kind of support staff,” Schuett said. “It’s really tricky getting all the staff that we need because everybody in this town is fighting for the same employees and also with COVID we saw a lot of people leaving the industry. "

Schuett’s looking forward to the stressful and exhausting busyness of the summer season, she acknowledged: “It's when we make our money for the year. Our staff love it because they make a lot of money and they do really well.”

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M-91 project begins with detour south of Lakeview

May 06, 2024

LAKEVIEW, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is investing approximately $6 million to rebuild 4.5 miles of M-91 (Greenville Road) from Kendaville Road north to M-46 (Howard City Edmore Road).  Work includes asphalt resurfacing, drainage improvements and culvert replacement.    

County: Montcalm

Highway: M-91 (Greenville Road)

Closest city: Lakeview

Start date: Monday, May 13, 2024

Estimated end date: Early September 2024

Traffic restrictions: M-91 will be closed from just north of Kendaville Road to M-46. Detour heading north: West on Kendaville Road, south on Satterlee Road, west on Coral Road, and north on Gravel Ridge Road to M-46. Southbound M-91 traffic will be maintained via the same detour routes.

Media Contact:

John Richard

MDOT Grand Region Media Representative

[email protected]

616-262-1565

Related News

M-28 ontonagon county resurfacing starts may 15.

BERGLAND, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is investing about $11.4 million to resurface about 20 miles of M-28 from west of M-64 to US-45 in Ontonagon County.

Mackinaw Road bridge demolition at US-10 starts May 10 in Bay County

BAY CITY, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will close the Mackinaw Road overpass and ramps at US-10 as a part of a $32.8 million investment to rebuild westbound US-10 from 7 Mile Road to Bay City.

M-14/I-96 project begins with weekend closure between Sheldon and Newburgh roads in Wayne County

PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) M-14/I-96 project between Sheldon and Newburgh roads is scheduled to begin this weekend, weather permitting.

I-96 bridge maintenance over the GTW Railroad in Eaton County begins Tuesday

LANSING Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will begin maintenance on the westbound I-96 bridge over the GTW Railroad in Eaton County starting Tuesday.

US-2 closed west of Escanaba due to pavement damage

ESCANABA, Mich. - Pavement damage from high water has forced the closure of eastbound and westbound US-2 at Portage Creek west of Escanaba in Delta County.

M-25 lane closures for patching work start May 8 in Bay City

BAY CITY, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will implement lane closures on M-25 (McKinley Avenue/7th Street) from Madison Avenue to Veterans Memorial Bridge in Bay City for concrete patching work.

US-2 Gogebic County resurfacing project starts May 13

MARENISCO, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is investing about $10.3 million to resurface nearly 18 miles of US-2 from Great Lakes Road to Gogebic Station in Gogebic County.

M-35 Gwinn resurfacing project starts May 13

GWINN, Mich. - The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is investing about $517,000 to mill and resurface about 1 mile of M-35 between the west branch of the Escanaba River and Willow Street in Gwinn, Marquette County.

Portage Lake Lift Bridge maintenance May 6-7

HOUGHTON, Mich. - Crews from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) will be performing deck maintenance work on the US-41/M-26 Portage Lake Lift Bridge between the cities of Houghton and Hancock next week.

Pay to enter: Venice becomes the first city to implement a tourist ticket system

Venice became the first city in the world on Thursday to introduce a payment system for visitors in an experiment aimed at dissuading tourists from arriving during peak periods.

However, it isn't the only place in Italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at slowing tourist flows.

Here are some of the initiatives currently in force.

Venice tourist tax

The lagoon city has introduced 5 euros (about $5.35) tickets for day trippers, valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The experiment came into force on April 25, a national holiday in Italy. Tickets will be needed for the following 10 days and thereafter for most weekends until mid-July.

Venice residents, students, workers, and homeowners are exempt from paying or booking a slot. Visitors aged under 14 and tourists with hotel reservations will need to register, but access for them will be free of charge.

Other cities, such as Como, have said they are considering introducing a similar measure but are waiting to see how the Venice initiative works before deciding.

In addition, Venice has said that from June, it will limit the size of tourist groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.

Florence tourist measure

Florence announced in October that it was banning new short-term residential lets on platforms such as Airbnb in its historic center. It also offered three years of tax breaks to landlords of short-term holiday lets who start offering ordinary leases for residents.

The city's famous museum, the Uffizi, offers discounts to people who arrive before 8.55 a.m. and lower prices off-season. To spread out crowds, it also closes at 10 p.m. once a week.

Cinque Terrer overtourism

The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera regularly get swamped with visitors.

To try to reduce the overcrowding at peak periods, the authority which oversees the area said this week it would charge visitors 15 euros (about $16) to walk the most celebrated coastal path. In addition, the path can only be walked in one direction.

Capri tourism measure

The picturesque small island that lies across the bay from the southern city of Naples has doubled its entry fee, which is automatically added to ferry tickets, to 5 euros. The fee will be charged from April 1 to October 1.

Capri, Ischia, Procida, Lampedusa and Linosa changes

These islands have introduced limits, or outright bans, on cars for non-residents during the main tourist season.