michigan best places to visit

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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

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 to the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary .

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 May 8, 2024 in Things to Do in Michigan & Places to Visit

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Resources: Michigan.org , State Parks

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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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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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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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20 of the Absolute Best Places to Visit in Michigan

10/05/2021 by Emily Becker 2 Comments

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

Table of Contents

Cities & Towns

20. detroit.

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

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

-READ NEXT-

22 Spectacular Things to do in Detroit, Michigan

19. South Haven

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

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

16 Amazing Things to do in South Haven, Michigan

18. Traverse City

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

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

30 Wonderful Things to do in Traverse City, Michigan

17. Grand Rapids

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

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

16. Kalamazoo

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

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

15. Mackinac Island

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

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

14. Manistee

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

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

13. Harbor Springs

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

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

12. Frankenmuth

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

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

11. Ann Arbor

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

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

10. Marquette

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

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

9. De Tour Village

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

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

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

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

7. Copper Harbor

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

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

6. Charlevoix

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

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

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

National & State Parks

5. sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore.

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

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

4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

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

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

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

3. Isle Royale National Park

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

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

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

2. Keweenaw National Historical Park

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

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

1. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

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

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

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

About Emily Becker

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

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Manas Patil says

10/06/2021 at 1:56 am

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

ali ahmed says

10/12/2021 at 9:16 am

very beautiful places to visit in this place.

21 Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Written By: Sherry Trautman

United States

Updated On: February 8, 2024

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Detroit

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

2. Charlevoix

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

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

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

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

3. Relax on Mackinac Island

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay on Mackinac island

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

Things to do

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

4. Grand Rapids

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

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

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

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

5. Traverse City

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

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

Tours and Where to Stay

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

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

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

6. Discover Shipwrecks and Fossils in Alpena

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

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

7. Frankenmuth – Fried Chicken and Christmas Wonderland 

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

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

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

8. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

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

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

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

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

9. Rockport State Park

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

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

10. Photograph Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

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

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

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

11. Sand Dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

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

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

Where to Stay

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

12. Rafting Adventure in East Jordan 

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

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

13. Sand Dunes of Silver Lake

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

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

14. Midland’s Record-Breaking Canopy Walk

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

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

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

15. Relax and Explore East Tawas 

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

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

16. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

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

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

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

17. Holland

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

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

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

18. Isle Royale National Park

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

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

19. Ann Arbor

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

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

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

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

20. Lansing

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

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

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

21. Kalamazoo

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

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

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

23. Bay City

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

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

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Fall in love with Michigan

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

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

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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About Sherry Trautman

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

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

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20 Best Places to Visit in Michigan

May 8, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored 3 Comments

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Michigan, then this is the article for you!

When you visit Pure Michigan, you can expect to find a ton of gorgeous nature spots to visit from amazing lakeshores to forests.

This is one of the best places to be one with nature as there are so many things to do in Michigan.

If you prefer city life, then Michigan has plenty of that to offer as well. If small-town vibes are more your speed, you have plenty of Michigan vacation spots to choose from.

No matter where you plan to travel in Michigan, you are in for a treat! This Midwest state is full of so many interesting attractions.

Now, let’s get started on this list of the best places to go in Michigan!

There are so many fun things to do in Kalamazoo , making it one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

This lively city is found in southern Michigan, a couple of hours from large cities like Detroit and Chicago .

If you love visiting museums, then Kalamazoo should be on your Michigan bucket list. You can learn about the past at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum.

Look to the sky at the Aerospace and Science Museum.

If you are interested in classic cars, you can see over 300 at the Gilmore Car Museum. Visit the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts to see a ton of great art pieces.

Kalamazoo also has a bunch of beautiful parks and nature preserves. There are great shopping and dining opportunities as well.

Where to Stay: Charming Kalamazoo Bungalow

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has some of the best beaches in Michigan . If you are wanting really relaxing, water-based vacation, then this is one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

The National Lakeshore also includes South and North Manitou Islands. There are over sixty miles of coastline here with amazing golden sand. These Lake Michigan beaches are great for chilling in the sun.

The water is perfect for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. If you visit in the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

There are thirteen hiking trails on the mainland that add up to over 100 miles. The trails have a mix of scenery including overlooks, wildflowers, sand dunes, and forests.

Where to Stay: Adorable, Farmhouse Style Home

Fallasburg Covered Bridge Is One Of The Coolest Places To Visit In Michigan

Michigan has a few great covered bridges, and Fallasburg Covered Bridge outside of Lowell is one of the best. This 100-foot wooden, brown bridge was built in 1871.

This is one of the last vehicle-driven covered bridges in the state and is a great place for taking rural photos in Michigan.

If you want to learn more about the time when this bridge was built, you can drive through the old Fallasburg Village. The village includes a one-room schoolhouse, house museums, a cemetery, and more.

You can create a Michigan road trip itinerary to see even more covered bridges.

Where to Stay: Superior Loft

Frankenmuth Is One Fo The Best Places To Visit In Michigan

Frankenmuth is a quaint town with Bavarian roots. The German culture comes through in the architecture, shops, breweries, and restaurants.

Visit during the summer for the annual Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival. You will feel as if you are in Germany as you watch costumed performers and listen to polka music. Doesn’t that sound like fun?

Frankenmuth is also one of the best places to visit in Michigan during Christmas. The town is home to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the largest Christmas store in the world. While the store is open year-round, it is more magical in the winter.

There are also a ton of light displays throughout town during December. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride downtown.

Where to Stay: The Historical Franklin House

Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is the perfect place for a romantic getaway . Found in Lake Huron, this island is full of natural beauty and Victorian buildings.

The only way to get to the island is by boat or plane, and there are no cars on the island. Instead, you will get around by walking, bicycling, or riding in a horse-drawn carriage.

You will have fun shopping in the historic downtown or hiking and kayaking in Mackinac Island State Park. There are a ton of beautiful places to stay here as well.

Where to Stay: Lakeside Mackinac

Marquette Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In Michigan

Head to the Upper Peninsula to visit Marquette on the shores of Lake Superior. This was once an important area for the iron ore industry and the town is full of history.

Take time to visit the Marquette Maritime Museum and the DeVos Art Museum. Walk the Lakenenland Sculpture Park to see over 100 sculptures made from scrap iron.

If you want to enjoy some of the nature that surrounds Marquette, you can climb Sugarloaf Mountian, scuba dive at the Marquette Underwater Preserve, or hike to Dead River Falls.

Don’t forget to take a photo of the Marquette Harbor Light and the Lower Harbor Ore Dock.

Where to Stay: Sweet Little Home

Crisp Point Lighthouse

Since Michigan is surrounded on almost all sides by the Great Lakes, it makes sense that there are a ton of lighthouses in the state.

Lighthouses are one of the coolest places to visit in Michigan, especially for photographers.

Crisp Point Lighthouse is one of the best lighthouses in Michigan . This structure is found on the southeastern end of the UP near Whitefish Point.

This beautiful lighthouse began operation in 1904 and was officially decommissioned in 1993. While most of the other buildings have been destroyed, the lighthouse itself still stands.

The lighthouse was once inaccessible by car, but a road now leads to the remote location. There is also a visitor’s center.

There is also a beautiful historical lighthouse in Sault Ste Marie.

Where to Stay: Superior’s Treasure Cabin

Traverse City

Traverse City is one of the prettiest places to visit in Michigan. You will have fun shopping in the cute downtown, taste testing at breweries and wineries, and relaxing in nature.

This town is also famous for its cherries. If you can time your Michigan vacation right come in July for the annual National Cherry Festival.

Even if you do not visit them, Traverse City restaurants make use of the local delicacies.

Another thing people come to Traverse City for is the amazing beaches . The town is found at the point of Grand Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan and there are many smaller lakes around it.

No matter where you go, you will find awesome, sandy beaches where you can relax and play.

Where to Stay: Downtown Traverse City Condo

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

If you want to visit one of the best waterfalls in Michigan , then you need to go to Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

This gorgeous state park is found on the UP and is made of nearly 50,000 acres of woodlands.

Tahquamenon Falls is made up of two parts. The Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River with a 50-foot height and a width of over 200 feet.

It is just under a half-mile paved walk to the Upper Falls.

The Lower Falls are small but just as beautiful. The hike to the Lower Falls is a scenic, four-mile hike along the river. This is really one of the best vacation spots in Michigan.

Where to Stay: Sunrise Cottage

Crystal Mountain Ski Resort

One of the best vacation spots in the winter is a Michigan ski resort . There are many to choose from in the state and you are sure to have fun zipping down the slopes.

Crystal Mountain Ski Resort is an hour from Traverse City and is a great, family-friendly destination.

There are 58 different slopes for all skill levels. Whether this is your first time skiing or you are an expert, you will have a blast.

The resort is open year-round and even if you do not like skiing, you can have fun here. There are restaurants, a spa and fitness center, a waterpark, and a golf course.

Where to Stay: Laughing Moose Lodge

The Automotive Hall Of Fame in Detroit Is One Of The Top Michigan Tourist Attractions

If you are looking for some things to do in Detroit , you will not be disappointed. There are plenty of cool Michigan attractions here, none better than the Automotive Hall Of Fame.

Detroit is known as the Motor City so it only makes sense to visit this museum while in town and learn about automotive history.

This Hall of Fame was established in 1939 and honors people in the motor vehicle industry.

There are many exhibits that cover all sorts of historic innovations and moments in automotive history.

If you are interested in engineering or classic cars, then this is one of the best places to visit in Michigan.

Where to Stay: Downtown Detroit Loft

Lansing is the capital of Michigan and is a must-see city in the state. Start your trip here by visiting the Michigan State Capitol building.

It was built in 1879 and is a beautiful National Historic Landmark.

Visit the Michigan History Center to learn about the complete history of the state.

If you want more history, head to the Turner-Dodge House & Heritage Center or the Meridian Historical Village.

Lansing also has a lot of pretty parks, tasty breweries, and fun events throughout the year.

Where to Stay: Little Loft of Adventure

Yes, there is a town in Michigan named Christmas and of course, it is one of the best places to visit in Michigan during the holiday season.

This small UP town has a population of only around 400, but they know how to make the most of their town’s name. It is hard to miss the giant, 35-foot tall Santa Claus cut-out.

If you visit in the winter, you can enjoy snowmobiling, ice-fishing, and cross-country skiing. Summertime can be spent at one of the campgrounds and exploring the water by kayak or boat.

Where to Stay: Elf House

Castle Rock

We’ve already mentioned a lot of epic places to visit on Michigan’s Upper Peninsula , and Castle Rock is yet another one.

This natural rock stands around 200-feet in the air, providing amazing views of Lake Huron, St. Ignace, and Mackinac Island.

This is believed to be the oldest lookout point in the state and it is easy to see why. There are viewing binoculars at the top to help you see everything.

It costs only $1 to climb the 171 steps so it is definitely one of the most budget-friendly places to visit in Michigan. There is also a gift shop if you want to pick up a souvenir.

Where to Stay: The Blue Bliss

Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in Michigan . This Lake Superior island is a secluded place to spend time in nature.

This is one of the best places to visit in Michigan if you are looking for an outdoor adventure. You will have so much fun here kayaking, hiking, backpacking, scuba diving, fishing, and more.

The only way to the island is by boat or plane. You can take a ferry from either Houghton or Copper Harbor on the Michigan side or from Grand Portage or Grand Marais on the Minnesota side.

Where to Stay: Eagle Harbor’s House on the Hill

New Buffalo

New Buffalo is found on Lake Michigan about an hour and a half from Chicago. This small town is part of Harbor Country, one of the best vacation spots in Michigan.

There are a ton of different options for fun activities in New Buffalo. Try to win big at the Four Winds Casino Resort.

Take a tour of some of the Michigan wineries and breweries in the area for a romantic day out. A sunset cruise is also super romantic.

If you want something a little more family-friendly, there are plenty of parks and beaches to check out. Kids will love picking up a tasty ice cream at Oink’s Dutch Treat which has a thirty-five-year history.

Where to Stay: Beach-Themed Cottage

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

If you want ideas for weekend getaways in Michigan , you cannot go wrong with a trip to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

This is one of the most beautiful, natural places to visit in Michigan and needs to be added to your bucket list right now!

Spend time here kayaking among the amazing rock formations, touring the Au Sable Lighthouse, or taking a ranger-led hike.

In the winter, the lakeshore becomes a wonderland of snow and ice. If you are daring, you can go snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or ice climbing.

There are also amazing curtains of ice to photograph.

With all these options to choose from it is easy to see why this is one of the best Michigan vacations spots to visit.

Where to Stay: Polish Flats

South Higgins Lake State Park

South Higgins Lake State Park is a fantastic place for camping in Michigan . If you love sleeping within peaceful and scenic nature, then this park is for you.

This is one of the biggest camping areas in the state and it is no wonder why so many people choose to vacation here.

The campground is tucked between big Higgins Lake on one side and little Marl Lake on the other.

Higgins Lake is spring-fed and known for its super clear water. This is a great place to swim or launch a boat. There are also wooded trails here.

Where to Stay: Higgins Lake Cottage

Hiawatha National Forest Is One Of The Amazing Places To Visit In Michigan

If you are looking for the most magical places to visit in Michigan for fall foliage , then Hiawatha National Forest is for you!

This is 890,000 acres of undeveloped woodland and shoreline on the UP.

There are six historic lighthouses to discover, beaches for swimming and fishing, and pretty hiking trails.

This is also a good place to spot wildlife, including Canada lynx, bald eagles, grey wolves, owls, and more.

In fall, the leaves are a fiery color before the snow turns the landscape into a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. Skiing, snowmobiling, and more can be done here.

Where to Stay: Eagle’s Retreat

Holland Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In Michigan

Holland is one of the most adorable small towns in Michigan . As you can probably tell from its name, this town is rich in Dutch heritage which comes through in the architecture, shops, and restaurants.

If you visit in spring, you will be blown away by the millions of tulips during the Tulip Time Festival.

You can visit the Windmill Island Gardens to see the 250-year-old De Zwaan Windmill from the Netherlands.

Nelis’ Dutch Village is an awesome place to bring the kids, and you will feel as if you are in the Netherlands as you check out the specialty shops and cool attractions.

Holland State Park is a great beach area, too.

Holland is one of the cutest beach towns in Michigan!

Where to Stay: The 1896 Gatehouse

Packing List For Visiting The Best Places In Michigan

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when visiting places in Michigan. It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves are  the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when discovering the best places to visit in Michigan.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

And the replaceable carbon filte r ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. then this   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

There is no doubt that there are a ton of amazing places to visit in Michigan.

There are a ton of great things to do in Bay City Michigan . Add that popular beach city to your itinerary too!

Writing the perfect Michigan itinerary will not be hard when there are so many great attractions throughout the state to amaze you.

Reader Interactions

December 14, 2021 at 1:46 am

A good place to eat when going to Pictured Rocks in Munising is The Dog Patch. Excellent food and excellent service.

December 15, 2021 at 9:04 pm

Thank you for this recommendation!

[…] Great Lakes Bay Region is the ideal choice for this as it covers 6 cities along Lake Huron. From Saginaw to Bay City, you can visit many amazing cities with your partner on this romantic getaway. […]

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12 Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Whether your tastes run more toward outdoor adventures, sports and recreation or music, culture and the arts, Michigan wows visitors of all stripes with a diverse range of offerings to enjoy. Here’s a solid dozen of the best destinations all across the state to consider including on your Michigan travel itinerary.

The Motown Museum

If you’re a Motown fan (and really, who isn’t?), make a pilgrimage to Detroit and immerse yourself in the stories of this legendary recording studio. Hot on the heels of its 60 th anniversary in 2019, Hitsville U.S.A. packs a world-class musical experience into its surprisingly humble Grand Boulevard setting. Founded in 1985, the museum is currently in the middle of a major campus expansion project that will bring its total footprint up to 50,000 square feet, updating the existing spaces and adding innovative new features. The list of illustrious artists who’ve passed through these hallowed halls reads like a who’s who list of music history, including the Supremes, the Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson, and the Jackson 5. Standing in Studio A, you can still hear echoes of the iconic songs that defined the Motown era. Strike your own “Stop in the Name of Love” pose by the sign out front.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Road trippers from across the Midwest visit—and revisit—Sleeping Bear Dunes at the northwestern tip of the Michigan mainland to drink in the stunning natural scenery from way up on high. The 7.4-mile Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive loop reveals peeks of pristine Glen Lake through deep forest, but the sight of Lake Michigan as it comes into view from the 450-foot-high overlook is the one that will truly take your breath away. Elsewhere within the expansive park site, challenge your leg muscles on the Dune Climb, canoe the Crystal or Platte rivers, and bike the multi-use Heritage Trail from one of a handful of trailheads stationed throughout the park. While you’re there, cruise on up M22 to Leland’s historic Fishtown village, where you can hunt for Petoskey stones on the beach. 

Mackinac Island

Take a step back in time by crossing the Mighty Mac bridge between the upper and lower Michigan peninsulas and then catching a ferry over to beguiling Mackinac Island. No need to worry about bringing a car; motor vehicles are strictly forbidden on the island, preserving a sense of tradition that harks back to long-ago days of leisurely strolls, easy bike journeys, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Surrounded by the picture-perfect waters of Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is home to a spectacular display of seasonal blooming lilacs, the gorgeous historic Grand Hotel with the world’s longest front porch (memorialized in the 1980 cult classic “Somewhere in Time” starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour), the Revolutionary War-era Fort Mackinac, award-winning restaurants and fudge shops that still make delicious candy the old-fashioned way. 

The Big House

Big Ten college football fans should plan to visit Michigan in the fall to cheer on the Wolverines at the Big House in Ann Arbor. With a seating capacity of more than 107,601, the stadium holds rank as the biggest venue of its kind in the entire country, and the third-largest in the world, trailing only behind North Korea’s May Day Stadium and the Motera Stadium in India. Can’t get there for a game? Guided tours of the stadium are offered year-round, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the field, the press box, the locker rooms, and other intriguing nooks and crannies. Afterward, order up a gut-busting, soul-satisfying Reuben or pastrami sandwich at Zingerman’s Deli. 

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Chase some waterfalls across the Upper Peninsula; there are more than 300 beauties to observe here! Defined by stunning beaches and lakes, this north-border section of the state is famous for its outdoor recreation, from breathtaking hikes, snowmobiling adventures, and thrilling bike trails to horseback riding, camping, skiing, golfing, and winter ice climbing. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Northern Lights. Tahquamenon Falls State Park proposes 50,000 acres to explore studded with picturesque cascades. The photogenic Upper Falls are nearly 50 feet and 200 feet across, making them the biggest in the state.

Traverse City

Life is sweet in the Cherry Capital of the World. The Caribbean-blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay invite guests to enjoy seasonal sporty pursuits like boating, swimming, paddle-boarding, and kayaking. At the same time, the idyllic local terrain feeds orchards, wineries, and a booming culinary scene. Check out tasty snacks and dishes at Little Fleet, a corner-sited group of stationary food trucks; feast on a slice of the signature offering at the Grand Traverse Pie Company for dessert; and propose a toast with a cherry whiskey-based cocktail at the Traverse City Whiskey Co. Stillhouse. 

Perched on the banks of Lake Michigan, pretty Holland lives and breathes its namesake heritage with windmills, gardens, wooden shoes, Delft pottery, authentic fare, and other Dutch treats. Tulip Time in May is the most popular time of year to visit if you want to see the flowers in bloom. Still, this friendly town buzzes year-round with a series of festivals and activities that include farmers markets, outdoor summer concerts, the annual Latin American United for Progress (LAUP) Fiesta, art fairs, beachfront fun, parades, and the Dutch WinterFest.

Grand Rapids

The fine arts are alive and well in Grand Rapids, one of Michigan’s most thriving cultural scenes spanning museums, theater, music, dance, and spoken word performances. The international ArtPrize competition in the fall attracts a whopping 400,000 attendees to town to admire and appreciate entries displayed at venues all across the city. In the meantime, visitors can explore the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, the Grand Rapids Art Museum, the Grand Rapids Public Museum, the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum all year long. 

The Iron Belle Trail

Saddle up your bike or lace up your hiking boots to explore the longest state-designated trail in the country. The Iron Belle Trail offers two paths to follow starting from the northernmost trailhead in Ironwood, both concluding at a southern terminus in Belle Isle, Detroit, an ambitious 1,259-mile hiking route that includes the North Country National Scenic Trail and the 774-mile bike trail. All told, the 48 counties you’ll discover along the way reveal a diverse cross-section sampling of some of the best scenery, food, and amenities Michigan has to offer. 

The Henry Ford

For an immersive look at the Motor City’s proud automotive culture and a whole lot more, plan on allotting at least one full day to cover the grounds at the Henry Ford in Dearborn. Between the Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, and the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, this comprehensive facility offers three distinct visitor experiences on its expansive 250-acre campus. A few museum highlights include the Rosa Parks bus, Presidential motorcade vehicles, various planes, trains, automobiles, race cars, and a circular Dymaxion house. Greenfield Village brings history to life with 80 acres of recreated 19th-century structures and four working farm sites. Wrap things up with a nuts-and-bolts look at how the iconic Ford 150 truck takes shape from factory floor to showroom.

South Haven

Its location just across the Indiana state line makes South Haven an attractive, easily accessible introduction to Michigan’s string of western beach towns for travelers driving in from points south. Highlighted with sugary sand beaches, wineries, family-friendly parks, golf courses, inland lakes, craft breweries, maritime attractions, bike trails, and restaurants, South Haven holds all the trappings of an ideal long weekend. 

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Another Upper Peninsula treasure, this Lake Superior stretch near Munising features 42 miles of unique natural landscapes and water views rooted in multi-hued sandstone cliffs, soaring dunes, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. Hike through the northern woodlands, canoe the clear waters of the deepest Great Lake, camp in the rustic backcountry, and test your ice climbing legs in the winter. Must-see spots and photo ops include the Chapel Rock formation and Chapel Falls, Grand Portal Point, Miners Castle, Lovers Leap, Munising Falls, and the East Channel Lighthouse.

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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

Susan Montgomery / Shutterstock

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

Gary Richard Ennis / Shutterstock

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

Richard Westlund / Shutterstock

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

EQRoy / Shutterstock

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

ehrlif / Shutterstock

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

Northern Way of Life / Shutterstock

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

NicoleTaklaPhotography / Shutterstock

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

Rudy Balasko / Shutterstock

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

Barbara Kalbfleisch / Shutterstock

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

Artsy Shot Photography / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What’s even better is that admission is free.

21. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

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

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

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

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

You can also see very well-crafted sculptures.

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

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

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

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

Children two and under get in for free.

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

23. Colonial Michilimackinac

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

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

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

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

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

There are 16 different recreated buildings at Colonial Michilimackinac.

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

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

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

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

24. Kalamazoo

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

This city was first settled in 1829.

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

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

Family fun can be had in great amounts in Kalamazoo.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

25. The Henry Ford Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. The Outdoor Discovery Centre

Outdoor Discovery Center

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

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

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

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

You can also enjoy several miles of walking trails.

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. Sugarloaf Mountain

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

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

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

The main challenge of the hike is the steep incline.

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

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

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

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

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

Address: County Road 550, Marquette, MI, USA

28. Great Lakes Bay Region

Craig Sterken / Shutterstock (Bay City)

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

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

They all have their own personality and fun attractions.

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

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

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

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

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

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

29. Windmill Island Gardens

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

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

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

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

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

The gardens themselves rank among the loveliest Michigan attractions.

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

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

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

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

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

30. Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

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

This is part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

31. Hiawatha National Forest

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

Specifically, you should check out Hiawatha National Forest .

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

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

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

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

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

There are also cabins available for rent and many campgrounds.

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

Address:  Manistique, MI 49854, United States

32. Soo Locks Boat Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

33. Manistee

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rent a boat and yourself feel so wonderful and free.

34. Holland State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are also two places to go camping.

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

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

35. Ford Rouge Factory Tour

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

36. Petoskey Area

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

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

It rivals some of the prettiest places near Michigan.

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. Keweenaw Peninsula

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

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

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

The Keweenaw Peninsula is part of the Upper Peninsula.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Near Houghton, MI 49931, USA

38. Detroit Eastern Market

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Farming is integral to the midwest and its economy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

39. Escanaba

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.

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

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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16 Best Things to do in Michigan

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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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12 Best Lake Michigan Beaches With White Sand, Rolling Dunes, and Stunning Views

These sandy shores in the Midwest are perfect for a summer getaway.

With more than 1,600 miles of shoreline touching the states of Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin, Lake Michigan is home to many beautiful sandy beaches. The region has been nicknamed the "Third Coast" of the United States after the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Several islands and connecting rivers add to its beauty.

Water temperatures are chilly, especially in the northern area, and rarely top 73 degrees, even in summer. Lake Michigan's western and northern beaches are rocky, while its southern and eastern beaches offer some of the largest lake dunes in the world due to prevailing winds from the west.

Many Lake Michigan beaches are located in national, state, and county parks with excellent facilities for visitors. Beach towns, lakefront resorts, cabins, campgrounds, historic inns, and hotels provide a wide variety of places to stay. We've rounded up a dozen of the best Lake Michigan beaches, some of which welcome your furry companions.

Oval Beach, Saugatuck, Michigan

Oval Beach is the main beach in Saugatuck, one of the best small towns for a getaway in Michigan . Visitors can enjoy restaurants, theater, and shopping after a day on the sand. Set along the southeast shore of Lake Michigan near the Saugatuck Harbor Natural Area and Kalamazoo River, the beach offers clean white sand, rolling dunes, and natural beauty. Restrooms, concession stands, parking, and a picnic area are available. There's a strict no-dogs, no-alcohol policy, and visitors should be aware that the parking lot fills early on summer weekends.

Ludington State Park, Ludington, Michigan

Located midway along Lake Michigan's eastern shore, Ludington boasts 28 miles of sandy beaches. Some of the best strands sit within the 5,300-acre Ludington State Park between Hamlin Lake and Lake Michigan. The park offers beaches on both lakes, as well as ponds, sand dunes, marshland, forest, and the historic Big Sable Point Lighthouse . While you're in Ludington, check out the city's largest beach, Stearns Park , which has free parking and Wi-Fi as well as wheelchair-accessible walkways from the parking lot to the water. Nearby, Buttersville Park is a dog-friendly beach featuring campgrounds, a picnic area, a playground, restrooms, and a pavilion.

Indiana Dunes National Park, Porter, Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Park offers 15 miles of beaches and an ideal setting for swimming, birding, kite flying, hiking, and exploring. Located on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, the park includes nearly a dozen beaches with parking lots. Most of the beaches are open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and offer restrooms and drinking water. At West Beach , there are showers and lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Leashed pets are permitted year-round except at the West Beach swimming area during the summer season.

North Avenue Beach, Chicago, Illinois

North Avenue Beach is one of Chicago's most popular beaches thanks to its golden sand and stunning views of the city and Lake Michigan. Its unique white-and-blue beach house, resembling a sleek ocean liner, features a restaurant, ice cream cafe, restrooms, and rental facilities for bicycles, kayaks, paddleboards, Jet Skis, beach chairs, umbrellas, and more. Swimming is permitted only during the beach season (Memorial Day through Labor Day) when lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. in designated areas. Dogs, alcohol, and smoking are not permitted. There are plenty of things to do in Chicago after a day at the beach, including visiting museums, dining at restaurants, or catching a Cubs game at Wrigley Field.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire, Michigan

Spanning more than 70,000 acres, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the best places to visit in Michigan , according to locals. This 35-mile-long stretch of Lake Michigan's eastern shoreline boasts the largest freshwater dune system in the world. The park has at least seven beaches, including Platte Point Beach , where the Platte River flows into Lake Michigan and the waters merge. Beach fires are permitted only on mainland Lake Michigan beaches between the water's edge and the first dune. Leashed pets are permitted on certain beaches, but some are closed in spring and summer to protect the nesting areas of the Great Lakes piping plovers, a protected endangered bird species.

Silver Lake State Park, Mears, Michigan

The 3,000-acre Silver Lake State Park features nearly three miles of shoreline and about 2,000 acres of dunes, forests, hiking trails, and campgrounds. It also has a popular 450-acre off-road vehicle area, the only one of its kind east of the Mississippi River. Four-wheel ATVs and other vehicle rentals are available from several local companies, and from mid-May through October, Mac Wood's Dune Rides offers a 40-minute dune tour in a dedicated section of the park. The pristine lakefront beach features soft sand and calm waters for swimming and wading. Boat launches and fishing are available at several of the park's beaches. The 1874 Little Sable Point Lighthouse hosts summer concerts, and visitors can climb the tower for stunning views of the forest, dunes, and lake.

Petoskey State Park, Petoskey, Michigan

Situated on the northeastern shore of Lake Michigan in the Little Traverse Bay area, Petoskey State Park offers a mile-long sandy beach, hiking trails, picnic facilities, volleyball courts, and a playground. Kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes are available to rent, and during summer, concessions sell ice cream, camping items, and souvenirs. A favorite activity at the beach is searching for Petoskey stones , the state stone of Michigan. They are actually fossils of an ancient form of coral, and the stones are prized for their beauty and unique markings that show best after the stone is hand polished. Leashed pets are welcome in the park, but are not permitted along the lakeshore in an effort to protect the habitat of the endangered piping plovers. Two historic Inns, The Terrace Inn and Stafford's Bay View Inn , are reminders of the area's history. Be sure to stop by the taproom at Petoskey Brewing Company , housed in a building dating back to 1898.

North Beach, Racine, Wisconsin

On Lake Michigan's western shore, just north of downtown Racine, North Beach features 50 acres of soft sand with a playground, volleyball courts, and a snack bar. There's live music, lifeguards, and free parking from mid-June through Labor Day. A wheelchair mat extends to the shoreline so everyone can enjoy the beach. North Beach is open year-round from 6 a.m. until 10 p.m. During the swimming season (June through August), lifeguards are on duty from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Pets aren't permitted on the beach. Wind Point Lighthouse is open for tours and Racine boasts historic architecture, farmers markets, boutiques, and restaurants.

Warren Dunes State Park, Sawyer, Michigan

The beautiful Warren Dunes State Park protects three miles of Lake Michigan's southeastern shoreline. The park's 1,500 acres also include forests, hiking trails, campsites, cabins, and massive sand dunes. Visitors enjoy climbing the dunes and gliding down them on sand boards, as well as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Equipment rentals and food concessions are available during the season from mid-May through Labor Day. Hang gliding from the dunes, with approved permits, is another popular activity. Leashed dogs are welcome in the park's campgrounds, trails, and boardwalk, plus a pet-friendly section of the beach. Three walkways between the sidewalk and the shore provide wheelchair access, and beach wheelchairs are available from the ranger station. Paved roads and boardwalks in the campground also offer wheelchair access. The park is open year-round, and each season boasts natural beauty, wildlife, and things to do.

Holland State Park, Holland, Michigan

Holland State Park on Lake Michigan's eastern shore features two white-sand beaches, campgrounds, a playground, concessions, and equipment rentals. At Tunnel Park , a concrete tunnel cuts through a sand dune to provide access to Lake Michigan for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The park offers beach volleyball, barbecue grills, restrooms, and a children's playground with a dune climb and stairway. Dogs are permitted in some areas in keeping with the park's guidelines . At Kirk Park, there's a sandy beach along Lake Michigan with high bluffs, dunes, hiking trails, restrooms, a horseshoe pit, a deck, picnic tables, and grills. There's an off-leash dog beach accessible year-round using the south beach stairs. Michigan's most photographed lighthouse, Big Red Lighthouse , has a history dating back to 1870 and is best viewed from a wheelchair-accessible boardwalk in the park.

Silver Beach County Park, St. Joseph, Michigan

Silver Beach County Park sits at the mouth of the St. Joseph River on Lake Michigan's southeast shore. It features a clean, wide, sandy beach, modern restrooms, outdoor showers, a playground, picnic tables, volleyball courts, and seasonal concessions. Lifeguards are on duty from early June to mid-August, and the swimming season typically runs from July to September. The park is open year-round from dawn to dusk, and there's a daily parking fee. Leashed pets are permitted on sidewalks, but they're not allowed on the beach. During summer, beach wheelchairs are available at no cost on a first-come, first-served basis, and kayaks and paddleboards can be rented at the south end of the park. South Pier is popular for fishing as well as beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the North Pier Lighthouse . Nearby, visitors can enjoy St. Joseph's restaurants, boutiques, and wineries.

Rosewood Beach, Highland Park, Illinois

The only swimmable beach in Highland Park, Rosewood Beach is a community gem. A major renovation project completed in 2015 restored the shoreline and created a boardwalk, park, nature trail, restrooms, concession stand, and a stunning glass interpretive center. Nature-focused programming, volleyball courts, and equipment rentals are available. Public swimming runs between Memorial Day and Labor Day, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. daily, conditions permitting. Dogs are not allowed on Rosewood Beach, but nearby Moraine Park is dog-friendly and includes picnic areas, a sculpture garden, and walking trails to the beach.

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Mackinac Island in Michigan named No. 1 ‘Best Summer Travel Destination' by USA Today

It's the second year in a row the "car-free" island has won the award, by francie swidler • published may 23, 2024 • updated on may 23, 2024 at 1:37 pm.

The No. 1 best summer travel destination is in the Midwest, according to a new list.

Mackinac Island , in Lake Huron, between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsula has been voted the "No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination" in USA Today's "10Best" Readers' Choice awards for 2024.

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According to editors, the list was curated by an "expert panel" that selected their "must-see places for a summer vacation."

After that, readers voted on their favorites to determine the top 10 winners.

"Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac," the Island's No. 1 entry reads. "This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock."

According to a spokesperson, it's the second year in a row the destination has earned the top spot.

“Earning this top honor for the second year in a row demonstrates just how special of a place Mackinac Island is to many people,” Mackinac Island Mayor Margaret Doud said in a statement. “I want to thank our island community for their unwavering commitment in creating unforgettable experiences for our guests and extend my gratitude to the all the individuals near and far who voted for Mackinac Island.”  

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The Island has also won previous USA TODAY 10Best awards, including landing the No. 3 spot on the list's Best Fall Travel Destinations for 2023.

One other midwestern destination also made the summer list for 2024: Door County, in Wisconsin , came in at No. 7.

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"It's hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine," the entry for Door County reads. "Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination."

The full list of 10 locations can be found here .

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7 Most Idyllic Towns To Visit This Summer In Michigan

These small Michigan towns are the perfect destinations for culture, nature, and fun this summer.

• Michigan boasts four Great Lakes coastlines ideal for peaceful summer getaways.
• Michigan's small, scenic towns offer coastal beauty similar to famous beach towns.
• Mackinac Island, Saugatuck, Frankenmuth, Petoskey, Charlevoix, Munising, and Empire are the top idyllic spots in Michigan.

Michigan has coastlines along not one, not two, not three, but four different Great Lakes. Thanks to this prime real estate, Michigan is an ideal destination for peaceful summer vacations and fun trips to unexplored areas in the American Upper Midwest region. In fact, Michigan is one of the country's most underrated destinations for memorable and relaxing summer vacations.

When most people think of the state of Michigan, they probably picture the big city of Detroit or college towns like Ann Arbor. However, the large, scenic landscapes of Northern Michigan, not to mention the entire Upper Peninsula, have overlooked wonders of their own, including some of the most beautiful spots in Michigan that fly under the radar .

Michigan's small, scenic towns are great destinations for summer vacations. For many residents of the Midwest, America's coastal regions are a bit too far away to make for an affordable trip, so ocean destinations are out of the question. But Michigan's ample shoreline along the Great Lakes provides much of the same aesthetic as America's famous beach towns on the East and West Coasts, all while being much more accessible for residents of the American Interior.

While Michigan is chock-full of great destinations for travel, these small towns are some of the state's most idyllic spots for summer vacations.

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7 mackinac island, michigan's small-town island paradise.

"Island destination" is probably not what most people think of when they think of Michigan, but Mackinac Island and its town of the same name are nothing if not trendsetters. And given Michigan's status as the premier destination for Great Lake vacations, what better place could one visit than an island in the Great Lakes?

Mackinac Island lies in the Straits of Mackinac, a narrow waterway between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron that separates Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Given this important geographic location, it should be no surprise that the island and its town played a major role in US history.

As such, history buffs can pay visits to preserved historical forts, like Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes , which date back to the American Revolution and War of 1812, respectively. Today, visitors to the island will find a peaceful, picturesque small town framed by a beautiful Great Lakes coastline, large docks, and classic townhouses and streets.

Mackinac Island is one of Michigan's best destinations for sailing, and those who wish to stay on land can also explore the island by horseback. The island also features many fun events and festivals during the summer. In June, visitors can experience the annual Lilac Festival , which celebrates the famous flower and its importance to the island.

In August, visitors can stop at the delectable Fudge Festival , which celebrates the island's status as "Fudge Capital of the World" (and get some tasty treats while they're there!). Mackinac Island is also a great place to visit on the Fourth of July !

6 Saugatuck

The art coast of the great lakes.

Sitting on the shores of Lake Michigan in a cozy western corner of the state, the Michigan town of Saugatuck is an ideal destination for travelers who want to combine natural beauty with a unique artistic flavor.

Saugatuck first came to prominence in the 19th Century, when its prime location made it a popular spot for artists and eccentrics. During. As artists and eccentric types migrated to the town, Saugatuck became a haven for the broader Arts and Crafts Movement of the late 1800s when this part of the state became known as the " Art Coast of Michigan ."

Today, Saugatuck very much retains the unique, artsy vibes that put the town on the map over 100 years ago. Visitors can explore rows upon rows of trendy boutique shops, art galleries, and performing arts venues. Culturally, the town is also one of the major LGBT destinations in the Midwest.

But Saugatuck is not just the arts and culture. This region of Western Michigan is ripe with tranquil natural beauty that will appeal to fans of the outdoors as well. Visitors can make a stop at Saugatuck Dunes State Park and explore gorgeous sand dunes rising along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Another great outdoor destination near the town is Mount Baldhead, a 230-foot-tall dune that provides an excellent view of the surrounding coastline and countryside. Saugatuck also has several fantastic beaches for anyone who wants to cool off during the hot summer days!

10 Beaches On The Shores Of Lake Michigan That Have Us Forgetting About The Ocean

5 frankenmuth, michigan's "little bavaria".

Beginning in the 19th Century, Michigan and the rest of the American Midwest became home to millions of European immigrants. Many towns in this area still feature signs of this European heritage, and nowhere is that more evident than the Michigan town of Frankenmuth . If the town's nickname of "Little Bavaria" was not enough of a hint of the town's vibes, one quick look at its architecture will be.

Visitors to Frankenmuth can experience the aesthetic of a traditional German village without booking a flight to Europe. Much of the town's architecture mirrors authentic Bavarian styles, and throughout the town, visitors can find ample offerings of traditional German food like pretzels, bratwurst, and (of course) German beer.

The town's location along the Cass River also makes it an excellent destination for riverboat tours. Today, visitors can explore the region by riverboat, and even take authentic German-tasting tours out on the water.

Throughout the year, Frankenmuth also hosts plenty to do and see , including numerous festivals that attract thousands of visitors. During the summer, travelers can stop in at the town's famous Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival for a fun celebration of the region's German heritage.

Unsurprisingly, Frankenmuth also hosts a great Oktoberfest celebration each fall and is also a wonderful destination to visit during the holiday season thanks to its traditional German Christmas festivities .

A place to discover the natural beauty of Northern Michigan

The pristine shorelines surrounding the northernmost part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula make for the perfect destination for a relaxing summer vacation on the lake. The best small town for experiencing this part of the state is the resort village of Petoskey and its surrounding areas. Petoskey is the perfect destination for combining the charms of small-town life with the serenity of Northern Michigan's natural beauty.

The Petoskey region has no shortage of great excursions for travelers who want to get out into nature. Petoskey State Park, Bayfront Park, and other parks in the area are all excellent locations for getting out onto a beautiful hiking trail or wandering along the peaceful shores of Lake Michigan .

The town's Skybridge Michigan is the world's longest timber-towered suspension bridge and serves as a great way to take in the natural beauty of the Petoskey forests from above. When the sun sets, the Petoskey area becomes a prime destination for star gazing (not to mention being one of the best places to view the Northern Lights in the lower 48 states).

Summertime in Petoskey features many fun festivals and events, including the month-long Sounds of Summer music festival held from July through August.

14 Picturesque Towns In Michigan You Should Have On Your Bucket List

3 charlevoix, home to lake michigan's stunning shoreline - and lighthouses.

With its picturesque lighthouse, breathtaking beaches, and small-town vibes, the town of Charlevoix might be the Platonic ideal of a small town on North America's Great Lakes. Like Petoskey, Charlevoix is located in Northern Michigan, which, geographically speaking, sits in the northernmost part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula.

Here, Charlevoix is specifically notable for lying between Lake Michigan itself and the smaller Lake Charlevoix, which also happens to be one of Michigan's most beautiful inland lakes. In terms of the town's natural wonders, Charlevoix is the main access point for the scenic Beaver Island, the largest lake island in Michigan.

Charlevoix visitors can also explore the town's natural beauty at Fisherman's Island State Park, Michigan Beach Park, and many other tranquil beaches along the coastline.

Visitors looking for great new additions to their Instagram page can head off to one of the town's many picture-perfect lighthouses set up along the shores of Lake Michigan. This includes the Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse , one of the most scenic lighthouses in all of the Great Lakes.

Spring, Summer, and Fall in Charlevoix also feature tons of fun festivals and events for visitors to enjoy. The most famous of these is the Charlevoix Venetian Festival , an eight-day event held each July that features live music, parades, vendors, carnival rides, and fireworks displays.

The hidden gem of Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Due to its remote location and lower population, Michigan's Upper Peninsula is relatively under-explored compared to the Lower Peninsula. However, these pristine characteristics, combined with the peninsula's stunning scenic beauty, make it the perfect place to explore during a summer trip. And while the Upper Peninsula has scores of idyllic places to visit, the town of Munising is perhaps the best spot for a memorable summer excursion.

Munising's main claim to fame is its proximity to some of the most beautiful natural scenes in all of Michigan. Visitors to the town who appreciate outdoor beauty will want to make a trip (or several) to Pictured Rocks Natural Lakeshore .

This stunning section of the Lake Superior shoreline features vivid cliffs and coves that display unique "painted colors" formed by mineral deposits. Munising is also a gateway to Hiawatha National Forest , which contains gorgeous hiking trails, superb lakeside forests, and breathtaking waterfalls.

Just off the coast of Munising is Lake Superior's Grand Island , a beautiful forested island that is now protected as a National Recreation Area.

One of the most beautiful lakeshores in the United States

Vacationers looking for a quiet, peaceful summer trip immersed in Michigan's sheer natural beauty should consider a trip to the small but memorable village of Empire . Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan on the Northern coastline of the state's Lower Peninsula, Empire is particularly famous for its proximity to the impressive Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .

While many regions of the Great Lakes coastline feature scenic dunes, the Sleeping Bear Dunes are in a class in and of themselves. With crystal-white dunes stretching along Lake Michigan's blue waters as far as the eye can see, combined with blue skies, pristine beaches, and scenic lighthouses, it should come as no surprise that Sleeping Bear Dunes has been called one of the most beautiful places in America.

Despite sitting so close to so much natural beauty, the actual town of Empire also has great attractions for a summer visit. Tourists can spend a day exploring the Empire Area Museum Complex , which features several historical museums detailing the region's rich history and culture.

Empire also hosts several great festivals and events throughout the year. This includes the Empire Heritage Days in October, the Empire Winterfest in February, and the Empire Asparagus Festival in May.

Two Michigan Destinations Named Among The 'Best Places To Visit' In US

2024 is almost halfway over, but there is still plenty of time to travel to destinations that you've always wanted to visit! If your 2024 bucket list has yet to be completed, there are a handful of map dots that you might want to know about! These specific locations are credited for being some of the best places to travel to across the country.

Be it natural beauty, fun for the whole family, or an experience that you cannot get anywhere else in the world, something about the destinations on the list we're going to discuss in this article continue to draw people in and rank as some of the best places to travel to for 2024.

According to a list compiled by World Population Review , the best places to travel to in Michigan this year are the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Tahquamenon Falls State Park where you can find the beautiful Tahquamenon River.

Here's what World Population Review had to say about the best place to visit in Michigan in 2024:

"With over 11,000 lakes, Michigan is a great destination for those who enjoy being on the water. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a beautiful spot along Lake Superior boasting cliffs, waterfalls, and peaceful white beaches. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore was the U.S.'s first national lakeshore in 1966. Visitors can swim, boat, kayak, scuba dive, fish, and hike along the country's largest and deepest lake here. Tahquamenon Falls State Park is the perfect destination for those who want to see relatively untouched woodlands and a cascading waterfall. The Tahquamenon River is home to the Upper Falls, which is 200 feet wide and almost 50 feet high, making it one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi."

For a continued list of the best places to visit across the country this year check out worldpopulationreview.com .

• 8 Coolest Towns in Michigan for a Summer Vacation in 2024

Michigan , known for its many lakes and abundance of forests and parklands, is a perfect place to explore and relax in the summer. After a cold, snowy winter in this region of the Great Lakes , what better way to welcome the warmer weather than in a small town in cottage country with a beach, trails to hike on, and many other fun activities to partake in?

Here are 8 of the coolest towns in Michigan to spend your time in this summer. Whether it is an adventure out in nature or a unique cultural experience, there is something for everyone in the "Wolverine State."

Saugatuck is a lakeside town on the eastern coast of Lake Michigan . Many come here throughout the year to see its numerous galleries and the acclaimed Saugatuck Center for the Arts, which hosts theater performances and art shows.

Saugatuck is probably best known for its proximity to Lake Michigan. Oval Beach, consistently ranked among the top beaches in the country, is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and simple beachcombing. For a more adventurous outing, the Saugatuck Dunes State Park features hiking trails through towering dunes and lush wooded areas. Saugatuck also offers water activities such as kayaking on the Kalamazoo River and leisurely cruises on a classic sternwheeler boat.

Explore the history of this region at the Saugatuck-Douglas History Center, which houses various exhibits and a historic schoolhouse that the public can go inside.

On the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula to the far northern reaches of the state sits Marquette. Marquette's expansive waterfront is a highlight, featuring Presque Isle Park, a 323-acre peninsula with scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and unobstructed views of Lake Superior. The park's famous "Black Rocks" are popular for cliff diving and capturing spectacular sunset photos. For something a little less extreme, McCarty's Cove is a popular chill spot for its sandy shores.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous trails for both hikers and bikers, including the Noquemanon Trail Network, which routes through diverse terrains from dense forests to scenic overlooks on the lake. The nearby Sugarloaf Mountain provides a relatively easier hike with rewarding views from its summit.

Downtown, the Marquette Regional History Center provides insights into the area's heritage, from Native American history to the iron mining era that shaped the town. Marquette also has a heritage that is closely tied with breweries and all things beer. Grab a cold one at breweries like Ore Dock Brewing, Black Rocks Brewing, and more.

Cadillac, nestled in the center of northern Michigan, is situated along the shores of Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell. A perfect place for a summer weekend on the water that is not too far from bigger cities like Grand Rapids and Lansing. As you can imagine, this town is perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and spending time outdoors. The Cadillac Pathway, a network of trails, provides excellent hiking, biking, and bird-watching, meandering through dense forests. Kenwood Heritage Park, located on Lake Cadillac, features picnic areas, a sandy beach, and playgrounds, making it ideal for the whole family.

The Wexford County Historical Society Museum downtown is a fun place to learn more about Cadillac's history, from its roots in forestry to its development as a more modern community. The museum is housed in the historic Carnegie Library building.

Golfers come here for the many world-class courses nearby, including the Eldorado Golf Course and the Evergreen Resort, which offers beautiful and challenging courses in the woodlands outside of town.

Frankenmuth

Frankenmuth , often referred to as "Michigan’s Little Bavaria," is famous for its strong Bavarian culture and aesthetic. The iconic southern German-inspired architecture that can be found downtown, especially along Main Street, is where you can explore specialty shops and traditional German restaurants.

A highlight of Frankenmuth is Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store, which offers a festive experience year-round, buzzing with customers even in the height of summer. Frankenmuth is also home to the Bavarian Belle Riverboat along the Cass River, which offers narrated historical tours of the area. Families can enjoy the Frankenmuth Aerial Park, featuring zip lines and climbing courses suitable for various skill levels. History lovers will appreciate the Frankenmuth Historical Museum, which further dives into the town’s German heritage and settlement history.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cass River offers options like paddleboarding and riverboat tours, providing scenic views of the town from its banks.

Ludington, located along the shores of Lake Michigan, is a great place for nature lovers to escape the city. The town's expansive beaches, particularly Ludington State Park, provide plenty of opportunities for swimming and sunbathing. The state park also features extensive hiking and biking trails, a historic lighthouse, and more sand dunes.

Downtown Ludington is a great place to go after a day at the beach. The town’s maritime history is highlighted at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum (conveniently located in the heart of downtown Ludington), which is a place where you can learn and enrich your knowledge of this small port town. The iconic SS Badger, a historic car ferry, is yet another boat you can buy a ticket for a cruise tour on Lake Michigan. For families, Ludington's Waterfront Park features sculptures, playgrounds, and a beautiful marina. The town also hosts numerous summer events, including the Ludington Arts & Crafts Festival and the West Shore Art Fair.

Charlevoix is situated on a narrow bridge of land between Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix , making it a fun place to visit because of its variety of waterfront parks, such as East Park and Michigan Beach Park. All contain idyllic spots for picnics, swimming, and simply enjoying sunsets over the lake on a summer evening. Boaters take advantage of the town’s well-equipped marina too.

Charlevoix’s downtown core is characterized by unique attractions such as the Mushroom Houses, a collection of whimsical homes designed by architect Earl Young. Guided tours can be booked so you can take a look at the architectural significance and history of these fairy-tale-like structures. The Charlevoix Historical Society Museum also offers a glimpse into the town’s history, featuring exhibits on local heritage and maritime artifacts.

Be sure to take a trip out to the nearby Castle Farms, a historic estate with beautifully landscaped gardens, and the Little Traverse Wheelway, a popular bike path along the shoreline.

Glen Arbor is a popular place to stay for visitors going to the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes, with their towering sand formations, are full of breathtaking views and challenging hikes. This town’s proximity to Lake Michigan and Glen Lake also provides everyone who comes here with the ability to enjoy a multitude of water-based activities and beaches to lounge on.

Glen Arbor’s downtown is a hub of local culture, featuring shops, art galleries, and delicious eateries. For a taste of local flavors, the Cherry Republic store is popular for its selection of cherry-themed products, from wines to gourmet foods, made only with the best locally picked cherries.

Port Oneida Rural Historic District is a preserved area showcasing 19th-century farmsteads and historical structures. The district offers guided tours and interpretive trails for you to learn more about this unique area in the north of Michigan's peninsula.

Mackinaw City

At the very northern tip of Michigan's lower peninsula is Mackinaw City , the gateway to the detached upper peninsula. This town also serves as a hub serves as a hub to get to Mackinac Island , with frequent ferry services making it easy to explore both locations. This island is a state park with a mix of natural attractions and historic landmarks dating back to 1780.

One of the city's standout attractions is the Colonial Michilimackinac, an 18th-century fort and trading post turned living history museum. Here, you can witness reenactments, tour reconstructed buildings, and learn about the area’s colonial history. Adjacent to the fort is the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, which is an ideal place to get a view of the Straits of Mackinac and partake in guided tours throughout the area

Take time to check out the nearby Headlands International Dark Sky Park, an excellent location for stargazing and experiencing the wonders of the night sky. The surrounding area offers ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Great Lakes region.

Find Your 2024 Summer Escape in Michigan

From its many pristine beaches to its forested parks, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions, Michigan is a place that just begs to be explored this summer; you just need to know where to look. Hopefully, these 8 towns will provide you with a great starting point to plan your next road trip as the weather starts to get warmer. These are but a few of the potential small towns that you should visit, whether you are a resident or just a visitor in Michigan.

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6 Michigan cities named among best places to live in the U.S.

Six Michigan cities have made the list of the top 150 places to live in America, according to U.S. News & World Report .

The company used an array of factors when determining the best places to live, including crime rates, quality of education, commuter index, housing affordability, weather temperateness, job market and more.

The highest city in Michigan was Ann Arbor, and the lowest city in Michigan to make the list was Detroit.

Naples, Fla. came in at the top city in the country, followed by Boise, Idaho, Colorado Springs, Greenville, SC and Charlotte NC.

Below are the rankings for the Michigan cities

No. 19 - Ann Arbor

• Overall Score: 6.6
• Quality of Life: 7.7

No. 45 - Grand Rapids

• Overall Score: 6.4
• Quality of Life: 6.9

No. 90 - Kalamazoo

• Overall Score: 6.1

No. 104 - Lansing

• Overall Score: 6.0
• Quality of Life: 6.2

No. 146 - Flint

• Overall Score: 6.2

No. 149 - Detroit

• Overall score: 4.6

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For a lot of people, buying car insurance is like buying sliced bread. It’s not the most exciting purchase, and the options all seem similar. So thrifty shoppers might simply reach for the cheapest thing on the shelf. But like cheap bread, cheap car insurance may leave you wishing you spent a little more on quality.

“The cheapest is not always the best,” warns Jessica McNally, an agency owner with Goosehead Insurance in Dallas. That’s because there are lots of factors that make up a car insurance company. And while price is one of them, it’s best to look at the bigger picture.

Here’s what to look for when picking the best car insurance company.

1. Choose a financially stable company

The best car insurance companies have plenty of money on hand to pay for customers’ claims. It’s important to check an insurer’s financial stability before buying a policy, especially if it’s a smaller insurer you’ve never heard of.

There are several independent agencies that evaluate the financial strength of insurance companies. One example is A.M. Best. You can use its online search tool to find an insurer’s financial strength rating. Companies with a rating of A or higher are considered to have an excellent ability to pay out customer claims.

2. Check customer satisfaction ratings and reviews

Not every insurer is customer-first. That’s why it’s important to research the customer satisfaction of insurers you’re considering.

You can turn to surveys from companies like J.D. Power to find insurers with the best customer satisfaction scores [0] J.D. Power . Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction Plummets as Rates Continue to Surge, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . Or, if you don’t mind doing a little detective work, you can compare customer complaints against insurers by using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ website . But take other people’s emotionally charged comments about companies or agents you might read online with a grain of salt, McNally advises.

3. Look for convenience

A great auto insurer should offer multiple ways to manage a policy. For example, some insurers allow customers to use a mobile app to file and track claims. But it’s hard to tell how simple it’ll be to file a claim or perform other essential tasks, like paying your premium, before becoming a customer.

Some telltale signs that an insurer will be easy to work with are high mobile app ratings, flexible customer service hours and an easy-to-use website with helpful content. Consider asking a company representative to walk you through the claims process to learn what you’ll need to do if you have to file a claim. And pay attention to how the company communicates with you. "If they don't properly communicate, well, that's a warning sign," says Michael DeLong, a research and advocacy associate for the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America.

4. Pick an affordable company

Car insurance premiums are stretching to record-breaking heights [0] U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS . Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources , and almost half of U.S. consumers shopped for a new car insurance policy in the past year, according to an April 2024 report by J.D. Power [0] J.D. Power . Half of Auto Insurance Customers Currently Shopping for New Policies, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . The best car insurance companies offer competitive rates and a variety of potential discounts.

It’s not hard to get car insurance quotes online from many companies. Make sure you compare the same coverage options throughout the quote-gathering process. And don’t forget to look for car insurance discounts, like breaks for being a good driver, paying your premium in full or driving a new car.

More tips to find the best car insurance

When shopping for the best car insurance, keep the following tips in mind.

Assess your needs. Before buying car insurance, take a moment to reflect on what’s important to you and your family. For example, maybe you prioritize affordability and a well-polished mobile app, but don’t need accident forgiveness .  

Consider small insurers. There are lots of small insurance companies you’ve probably never heard of. These regional insurers may provide lower rates and better customer service than the big companies you see advertised on TV.

Work with an independent agent. While it may be easy to get quotes yourself, independent car insurance agents and brokers can streamline the process. These experts vet companies and compile quotes from small and large insurers on your behalf. Independent agents and brokers can especially come in handy if you have a less-than-perfect driving record and can’t find insurance on your own.

Do your research. Search online for recent mentions of a company in the news before buying a policy, recommends DeLong. If you find a company has lots of recent lawsuits against it, you may want to think twice about signing on the dotted line. “And if they've had to pay out settlements, that's an even bigger red flag,” DeLong says.

Shop around once a year. Make a practice of shopping for car insurance every year — especially if price is important to you. Insurers adjust car insurance rates regularly, so what might have been the most affordable option last year may no longer be a bargain.

On a similar note...

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USA TODAY 10Best

Best of summer 2024: Top things to do and places to visit

May 22, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors May 22, 2024

Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy activities that celebrate getting outdoors — sometimes combined with taking in some entertainment. Some of the most popular things to do include going to a fireworks show, watching a double feature at a drive-in, going for a leisurely hike, learning about sea creatures at an aquarium, enjoying tunes at an outdoor concert series, setting out on a scenic train ride, and, of course, traveling for a summer vacation.

To find the best of these beloved pastimes, USA TODAY 10Best editors and a panel of experts nominated their favorites, then readers voted for their top picks — and the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

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Best Aquarium: Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri

Founded by Johnny Morris, CEO of Bass Pro Shops, his Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium celebrates hunting, fishing, and stewardship of the land and water through over 1.5 miles of immersive galleries featuring 4D dioramas and a 1.5-million-gallon aquarium.

Some 35,000 animals representing over 800 species are on display, including zebra sharks, sea turtles, and freshwater sport fish. Unique to the aquarium is its collection of historic boats used by Ernest Hemingway and Zane Grey.

Full list of winners: Best Aquarium »

Best Drive-In Theater: Skyview Drive-In in Belleville, Illinois

Skyview Drive-In has been part of the Belleville, Illinois, community since 1949. The venue frequently hosts special events like film festivals, live music, and movie nights with Santa. They also have a concession stand on site with hot food like cheeseburgers, fries, hot dogs, nachos, and popcorn.

Full list of winners: Best Drive-In Theater »

Best Hiking Trail: Whispering Cave in Hocking Hills State Park

Whispering Cave is just one of the many hikes in Hocking Hills State Park, which stretches across 2,356 acres. This 5-mile loop is moderately challenging and offers hikers access to a fun swinging bridge, the second-largest cave in the region, and a picturesque seasonal waterfall.

Full list of winners: Best Hiking Trail »

Best Outdoor Concert Series: Hot Summer Nights in Vail, Colorado

The cool mountain town of Vail hosts free outdoor concerts throughout the summer at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater aka The Amp. Bring a picnic and some chairs or blankets and enjoy live bands against the alpine backdrop.

Full list of winners: Best Outdoor Concert Series »

Best Place to See Fireworks: Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois

One of Chicago's secret pleasures is that you can enjoy fireworks at the iconic Navy Pier almost any time of year, including shows twice a week during the summer and when welcoming in the new year with a blast every December 31. In addition to viewing from the pier itself, pyrotechnic lovers can watch the show from charter boats on Lake Michigan, hotel rooftops, Maggie Daley Park, or along Chicago's Lakefront Trail.

Full list of winners: Best Place to See Fireworks »

Best Scenic Train Ride: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Durango, Colorado

The historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad once hauled silver and gold between these two Colorado towns. Today, visitors can hop aboard for this nine-hour round-trip journey through some of Colorado's most impressive scenery, with a stop in Silverton to explore the historic mining town.

Full list of winners: Best Scenic Train Ride »

Best Summer Travel Destination: Mackinac Island, Michigan

Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.

Full list of winners: Best Summer Travel Destination »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.