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16 Best Islands in the Great Lakes to Discover

February 26, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored 3 Comments

There are a ton of beautiful islands in the Great Lakes perfect for a Midwest vacation!

Whether you are wanting a resort hotel for a romantic weekend or a place crisscrossed with scenic Midwest hiking trails , there are perfect Great Lakes islands for you!

These islands are fun places to visit at any time of the year depending on what you want out of your trip.

In spring, there are flower festivals and farms of blooming lavender. Summer is a great time for swimming and water sports.

Come in experience fall in Minnesota and see the leaves popping in gorgeous colors and avoid the summer crowds.

Winter will give you the opportunity to visit stunning ice caves and try winter sports.

There are some of the best islands in the Great Lakes!

Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, Michigan , is one of the most popular islands in Lake Huron. It is located between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas near where Lake Huron and Lake Michigan touch.

This pretty island can be reached by a 15-minute ferry or by flying.

Visiting this Great Lakes island is like stepping back in time to the Victorian age. There are no cars on the island, so you can get around by foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage.

Admire the Victorian buildings, shop at specialty stores, and soak in the small town charm. If you want pure relaxation, you can stay at the Grand Hotel or go to one of the spas in town.

Mackinac Island State Park offers a place for hiking and viewing amazing rock formations. There are also a couple of historic forts to visit.

Drummond Island

Drummond Island is the“Gem of the Huron” and is actually the seventh-largest lake island in the world. It is found at the tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula next to the Canadian border.

The ferry ride is ten minutes and allows you to bring a vehicle. It’s a pretty neat Michigan day trip, and once you arrive, you can spend time exploring nature and having thrills.

This Great Lakes island is popular with ATV and ORV enthusiasts who want to race along the 100 miles of off-roading trails.

If you are more into water adventures, you can kayak the Drummond Island Heritage Water Trail.

You will find cool coves and barrier islands along the way. The DeTour Passage Underwater Preserve also has a ton of shipwrecks if you want to go scuba diving.

Isle Royale

Isle Royale National Park is one of the best islands in the Great Lakes for escaping into nature. If you love incredible hikes and backpacking to primitive campsites, then plan a trip here.

Isle Royale is close to the northeastern tip of Minnesota and Canada, but it is technically part of Michigan. You can take the ferry from four different locations, two in Minnesota and two in Michigan .

The remoteness of the island is what adds to its appeal. You are so far from the real world and can become one with nature. Have fun hiking in Michigan , boating, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

This is also one of the best places for scuba diving in the Great Lakes. Some of the best intact shipwrecks are found in these waters.

Beaver Island

Known as America’s Emerald Isle, Beaver Island is an area of bliss on Lake Michigan. You can fly in or save money by taking the ferry. It is a two-hour boat ride with beautiful views of the water.

This 13-mile long island has an interesting history involving Mormonism and Irish immigrants, but today it is a place to relax off the shore off the shores of Michigan .

In warm months, spend time hiking, visiting the beach, Michigan camping , and stargazing. If you visit in winter, you can go cross country skiing or snowshoeing. You might also spot the Northern Lights!

You can also visit museums, shop, photograph lighthouses, or try out some pubs and breweries.

Grand Island

Off the shore of Munising, Michigan, you will find the pretty Grand Island. With only a five-minute ferry ride, this is one of the more easily accessible islands of the Great Lakes.

Grand Island is part of the Hiawatha National Forest and is a nature lover’s dream on Lake Superior, the biggest Great Lake.

There are multiple hiking and mountain biking trails with lengths varying from two to twenty miles.

If you want a serene beach day, there are many Michigan sandy beaches where you can swim or soak in the sun. You can also rent a kayak and explore the water and rock formations.

If you are looking for something really epic for your Great Lakes itinerary, then come to Grand Island in the winter when the caves become sheeted in ice. It is an amazing and unique sight to see!

Overall, this is an awesome island of the Great Lakes to visit year-round!

Manitou Islands

North and South Manitou Islands are part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and are some of the best islands in Lake Michigan. The ferry to both leaves from Leland, MI, and takes about an hour and a half.

North Manitou is the more natural of the two islands, making it a great place for fishing and birdwatching. It is one of the really unique places to visit in MIchigan.

Many birds stop here on their migration and some nest here as well. You can explore a historic village, sand dunes, and rugged bluffs.

On South Manitou, you will find another historic village dating back to the 1830s. At the visitor’s center, you can learn about the entire history of the island.

If you want really great views of the island, climb to the top of the 100-foot tall South Manitou Island Lighthouse. The hiking trails will take you through old forests and to pebble beaches.

Les Cheneaux Islands

Les Cheneaux Islands, meaning “The Channels” in French, are the best islands on Lake Huron for a resort vacation. It is a wonderful place for a Midwest romantic getaway.

This area is made of 36 small islands and there is so much to do. Take time to Les Cheneaux Historical Museum and the Les Cheneaux Maritime Museum.

A lighthouse cruise is a great activity for couples. Kayaking and sailing are also really popular.

If you visit in August, you can attend the Les Cheneaux Islands Antique Boat Show & Festival of the Arts.

The event has been happening since the ’70s and is the largest antique wooden boat show in the world.

what a really fun Michigan road trip this would make!

South Bass Island

Moving on to epic places to visit in Ohio , you can find the Bass Islands in Lake Erie, the shallowest Great Lake. South Bass Island is a super popular tourist destination, drawing people in from all over to one of the coolest places to visit in the Midwest .

There is so much to do in Put-In-Bay the charming town found here offering shops, restaurants, lighthouses, and museums. Head to the top of Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial for awesome views.

Visit South Bass Island State Park for scenic hiking, biking, and camping in Ohio . There are two ferry lines that run to South Bass Island.

Middle Bass Island

Next, Middle Bass Island is just north of South Bass and is less developed. Middle Bass Island State Park is a beautiful place for an island escape in the Midwest.

The wildflowers here are so amazing that French explorers called it the Isle des Fleurs. Enjoy hiking and biking trails to see the beauty of the land.

You can explore by water as well by renting kayaks or paddleboards. Kayaks will give you access to East Point Nature Preserve which is a great place for birdwatching.

One of the biggest attractions on Middle Bass is the historic Lonz Winery. This museum will teach you about the vineyard’s rich history that started with German immigrants in the 1850s.

With so many amenities, it is no wonder this is one of the best places to visit in Ohio.

Gibraltar Island

Gibraltar Island is small compared to many of the other islands in the Great Lakes on this list, but this 6.55 acre-island is still worth a day trip. It is only open to the public during summer tours.

Known as the “Gem of Lake Erie,” this island is found just off the coast of Put-In-Bay. If you love visiting historic sites, you will want to book the tour here.

There are many historic buildings and geological sites on the island. One of the coolest attractions is Cooke Castle, a Victorian-Gothic mansion built in 1865. You can’t go inside, but the architecture is gorgeous.

Kelleys Island

To get to Kelleys Island, take the 20-minute ferry from Sandusky. This is the largest island in Ohio and offers plenty of fun and unique things to do.

Historically, the island was used for wine production, and you can still enjoy a glass at one of the wineries. The Monarch Winery and Butterfly Box has a beautiful greenhouse and monarch butterfly farm.

If you want to experience one-of-a-kind natural features, visit the Glacial Grooves Geological Preserve in Kelleys Island State Park. These are the largest accessible glacier grooves in the world.

This pretty state park also has hiking trails , a beach for swimming, kayak rentals, and campgrounds.

Apostle Islands

The Apostle Islands consist of 22 islands on the northern tip of Wisconsin. They are some of the most beautiful islands in Lake Superior.

The largest is Madeline Island, which is the only one not part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Tourism is huge here with people coming to hike, bike, and sail. There are also museums to visit.

Taking a sightseeing cruise of the Apostle Islands is a really cool thing to do in Wisconsin . It will allow you to see many lighthouses and iconic rock formations. You can also kayak along the rocks and caves.

This is also another awesome place for scuba diving in one of the coolest islands in Great Lakes with shipwrecks from the 1800s.

Washington Island

Another of the best islands in Wisconsin is Washington Island in Door County . When you take the ferry here, you will be met with beautiful landscapes.

If you visit in July and August, you might catch a whiff of lavender on the breeze. The largest lavender farm in the Midwest is found here.

The Fragrant Isle Lavender Farm is a gorgeous place to walk around. Check out their shop for an assortment of lavender-scented bath and body products.

You can also have fun exploring beaches in Door County , hiking trails, and parks.

If you love museums, take time to visit the Washington Island Farm Museum, the Jackson Harbor Maritime Museum, the Historic Island Dairy, and the Jacobsen Museum.

Chambers Island Is One Of The Beautiful Islands In The Great Lakes

Chambers Island is another island in Door County found in Green Bay. To get to the island, you will need to either book a charter or take your own boat. It is about a 45-minute journey.

Once you reach the island, you can enjoy nature and history. Wisconsin hiking trails weave through the wilderness and the beaches of Wisconsin act as a perfect place for a summer picnic. There is also an inland lake where you can fish.

The biggest attraction on the island is the Chambers Island Lighthouse. This squat lighthouse was built in 1868 and the grounds can be toured in the summer. It is a beautiful place to take pictures.

Northerly Island Is One Of The Coolest Islands In The Great Lakes

Northerly Island is part of Chicago, Illinois , and is a great reprise from the city. It is technically more of a peninsula with a harbor on one side and Lake Michigan on the other.

There are plenty of fun things to do at Northerly Island Park. This park is not just devoted to nature, but art and entertainment as well.

The Adler Planetarium is an awesome place for kids and adults alike to learn about science and the stars. There are high-tech shows and interactive exhibits to wow the whole family.

There is also a path around the planetarium that provides panoramic views over the water of downtown Chicago. This skyline walk is a great place for city photography!

Watch a concert at the outdoor amphitheater or visit 12th Street Beach for a peaceful afternoon on the water. Kids will have fun playing in the sand and swimming.

The island is also full of gardens, outdoor sculptures, memorials, and Illinois hiking trails . The natural area is a great place for birdwatching.

Thousand Islands Is One Of The Coolest Islands In Lake Superior

The Thousand Islands region has some of the best islands in Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. They are scattered among New York State and Canada, all ranging in size.

Interestingly, there are actually closer to two thousand individual islands, and they are spread over a fifty-mile span.

The tiny Just Room Enough Island is the smallest inhabited island in the world and holds a single house.

The Thousand Islands are a beautiful place to kayak and boat from island to island as you take in the natural scenery and historic sites. You can also take a sightseeing cruise.

As you explore the region, you will enjoy lighthouses, art and history museums, hiking trails, and even some castles. In the fall, the trees turn fiery and are perfect for leaf-peeping.

Packing List When Visiting Great Lakes Islands

If you are searching, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly when packing for visiting the islands in the Great Lakes.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when visiting the islands of the Great Lakes.  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. You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

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

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.

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 Insta-worthy selfies while discovering island getaways in the US.

I never much believed in using packing cubes when traveling. That is until I tried them. Now I am hooked. These are the exact cubes I use to stay organized when I pack for a trip!

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 your adventures and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car. Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  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.. during long hours of visiting the islands in the Great Lakes. No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great. And it comes in many different colors.

No matter which of the Great Lakes you visit, there are amazing islands to explore. No matter your interests, there are Great Lakes islands you will love.

While many of the islands of the Great Lakes focus on the wilderness, many are developed with cute, small towns and resort vibes.

If you are planning a Great Lakes getaway, make sure to check out some of the islands!

Reader Interactions

March 2, 2023 at 11:57 pm

Several years ago I saw a picture of a resort on one of the Great Lakes, but it wasn’t Mackinac Island, that had a beautiful hotel with some cabins right on the water in a relatively remote area but can’t remember where it is! One of the attractions was the Northern Lights. Can you help me find this beautiful place as my husband and I have had a hard year as far as health goes and this place seems to be calling us!!

March 13, 2023 at 7:23 pm

Hi Patricia, Sounds like a wonderful place for a vacation. Honestly, being from Ohio, I do not know anywhere on the Great Lakes one can view the Northern Lights. If you happen to find out the place, please come back and let us know!

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Visit these 5 islands on the Great Lakes

Published may 30, 2019.

The Great Lakes encompass about 35,000 islands in total, which formed during the end of the last glacial period in the Great Lakes Basin. Uneven glacial erosion led to certain areas having higher hills which became the Great Lake islands we know and love today.

The islands are a home to many people, a refuge for wildlife, and a spectacular place to take in the natural beauty our lakes have to offer.

Here are five of the most spectacular islands in the Great Lakes that you won’t want to miss:

Apostle islands, lake superior.

The Apostle Islands are made up of 22 separate islands on Lake Superior in the state of Wisconsin. The islands are known for their beautiful boreal forests and picturesque beaches. Madeline Island is the largest, and it’s a popular destination for hiking, biking, boating, scuba diving, and swimming.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you may wish to explore the caves on Madeline Island, Sand Island, or Devils Island.

If birdwatching is more your speed, try to spot herring, ring-billed gulls, double-crested cormorants, great blue herons, and cliff swallows, all of which nest in the area. As you can guess by their names, Gull and Eagle Islands are particularly good islands for birdwatching , and are home to 88% of the lakeshore's breeding herring gulls.

Beaver Island, Lake Michigan

Beaver Island is the largest island in Lake Michigan , Michigan, and it may be the one for you if you’re fond of wildlife. It’s such a hotspot for plant and animal life that it is the site of the Beaver Islands State Wildlife Research Area, which studies shoreline animal, bird, and plant life.

In addition to hosting a variety of wildlife, Beaver Island is a great place to rent a cottage, camp, golf, bicycle, hike, boat, fish, and shop.

It takes about two and a half (beautiful) hours by ferry to reach Beaver Island from the shore, but once you’re there, you can journey to the three neighbouring Islands as well: High, Garden, and Hog Island.

Manitoulin Island, Lake Huron

Manitoulin Island in Lake Huron is the largest freshwater island in the world . It also contains the largest lake on an island in a lake (Lake Manitou) and the largest island in a lake on an island in a lake (Treasure Island in Mindemoya Lake in Manitoulin Island). So that means… there’s an island on a lake on an island on a lake… it’s lake-ception!

This destination has lakes, rivers, beaches, and forests, as well as dramatic cliffs, and caves. Manitoulin Island the perfect getaway for hiking, biking, boating, and swimming.

Other points of interest are Mishibinijima Private Art Gallery and Bridal Veil Falls. Manitoulin Island can be reached by ferry, airplane, or by car via the Little Current Swing Bridge.

Pelee Island, Lake Erie

Pelee Island, Ontario is is the largest island on Lake Erie and the southernmost populated point in Canada. It also has one of the mildest climates in Canada, and is known for its vineyards and wineries that date back to the 1860s.

Soak up the culture at one of Pelee Island’s historic churches or lighthouses, quaint shops, its museum and cultural heritage centre, or at The Stone & Sky Music & Arts Series (which hosts concerts, spoken word, live performance, and visual arts).

Pelee Island is also a wonderful place for geocaching, biking, hiking, and camping. Situated on two major migratory bird routes, it is also an ideal spot for birdwatching .

Thousand Islands, Lake Ontario

The Thousand Islands in Ontario and New York are actually comprised of 1,864 islands on the Saint Lawrence River . Common activities on many of the Islands are swimming, fishing, and boating. The Islands also host freshwater shipwreck diving, many museums, and two castles.

Big Sandy Bay Management Area on Wolfe Island is the place to go for nature watching. Species in the area are protected and no motorized vehicles are allowed. If you’re a history buff, check out Fort Haldimand on Carleton Island, which was built in 1779 during the American Revolutionary War.

There’s no need to travel far for a relaxing or exciting island experience. The Great Lakes have you covered.

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The 9 coolest islands in the great lakes.

S tand at the edge of any of the Great Lakes, and it seems almost as if North America has five more oceans right in the middle of the continent. The cold blue waters are as relaxing and exciting as any coastal destination during the summer with the added bonus of hundreds of populated islands just a short ferry ride away, each with its own special character. Most are heavenly for hiking , watersports, hunting, and fishing. But others have wild parties, wineries, and magical ice caves. Whatever your pleasure, here are the nine coolest islands in the Great Lakes.

Photo: Luke.Travel /Shutterstock

1. South Bass Island, Ohio — Lake Erie

They call South Bass the “Key West of the North,” which might seem like it’s setting the party bar pretty high. But spend a weekend at Put-in-Bay and you’ll feel like you need a vacation from your vacation. Hit up an epic daytime pool party at spots like The Islander Inn and MIST, then stay out all night at the bars along the waterfront. If drinking your body weight in well vodka isn’t on your preferred itinerary, the island is also home to the world’s largest geode at the Heineman Winery , which also makes some pretty solid red and white blends. South Bass is popular among day-trippers from northern Ohio, so lodging can be tricky. But it’s the best island party you’ll find in the Great Lakes.

Photo: Michael Deemer /Shutterstock

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan — Lake Michigan

The Grand Dame of Great Lakes islands is Mackinac (pronounced exactly the same as Mackinaw) where no cars are allowed and horse-drawn carriages are still a legitimate mode of transportation. The centerpiece of the island is the stately Grand Hotel , where the longest outdoor porch in the world serves as the perfect place for sipping an evening cordial at twilight. The rest of the island is a time warp to a different century, with pastel Victorian homes lining the streets. Plus it’s home to the iconic Pink Pony bar, so even though the nightlife is minimal, it’s still got a ton of character.

Photo: Mark Baldwin /Shutterstock

3. Isle Royale, Michigan — Lake Superior

One of the least-visited national parks in America, this big rock of wilderness hosted a hair over 28,000 visitors last year — for good reason. Getting here requires a three-hour boat ride or 45-minute seaplane flight, which sounds simple until you look up the pricing. But if you’re into untamed northern wilderness, it’s worth every penny. Moose are aplenty here as the Isle Royale is home to the longest-running predator-prey study in America, examining involvement with the island’s wolves. It also has almost-deserted trails through dense fir and spruce trees where visions of the water can be seen through the branches. There’s one lodge here — the Rock Harbor Lodge — and though again not cheap, it’s worth it if isolation makes your vacation.

Photo: Thomas Barrat /Shutterstock

4. Beaver Island, Michigan — Lake Michigan

Nicknamed “America’s Emerald Isle,” the largest island in Lake Michigan sits a short ferry ride from Charlevoix and is known for its abundance of nature and wildlife. The name doesn’t refer to the green trees that cover the island but rather refers to the massive amount of Irish immigrants who chose to settle here. Its most fascinating aspect, however, is its earlier history when it was home to a Mormon set known as the Strangites. This sect of followers of Joseph Strang had a sort of religious monarchy here for about eight years until Strang was killed by said followers, and other communities pushed them out. Make a stop at the Old Mormon Print Shop Museum to learn the whole bizarre story. Beyond that, wildlife conservationists have kept this island pretty untouched, and it’s become one of the top hunting and fishing destinations in wilderness-heavy Michigan.

Photo: John McCormick /Shutterstock

5. Grand Island, Michigan — Lake Superior

It seems odd to suggest that anyone go to Michigan in the winter for anything other than a hockey game or a Bob Seger concert, but the ice caves along the shore of Grand Island are some of the most spectacular feats of nature one can see in colder months. The blue-and-green crystalline caves seem almost artificial in their precision and require a treacherous journey across a bay in Superior to reach. Even if you’re not into frozen fun, Grand Island can be just as beautiful in the summer, full of pebble-lined beaches along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore . If you want to go, though, plan ahead. This slice of mild-weathered paradise only allows 10,000 visitors per year.

Photo: Antler Photography /Shutterstock

6. Manitoulin Island, Ontario — Lake Huron

This massive island covers over 1,000-square miles and is one of the world’s largest islands situated in a lake. It’s like its own geographical region, with four rivers and 100 lakes, which have islands within an island. The best view of it all is on the Cup and Saucer trail, where seven miles of trail roll along 200-foot cliffs with sweeping vistas of the island. Manitoulin is also full of beaches and lakes, with plenty of deep wilderness kayaking and wildlife encounters. Getting here can be part of the adventure, as well, given that along with ferry and airplane service you can reach the island via the historic Little Current Swing Bridge.

Photo: SF photo /Shutterstock

7. Pelee Island, Ontario — Lake Erie

Here’s some bar trivia: Over half of the states in the US lie north of this island, the southernmost populated point in Canada. You’ll pass it on a ferry ride from Sandusky, Ohio, to South Bass Island; it’s hard to miss since it’s the largest island in the lake. The weather here is very un-Canadian, though, and the warm weather has made it a surprising destination for wine tasting. It sits at a similar latitude as Rioja, Porto, and Tuscany, and the largest estate winery in Canada is located here at the 550-acre Pelee Island Winery . Its mid-continental location also makes it a popular spot for migratory birds, and the birders who love them. Fall and winter bring loads of pheasant hunters, as well.

Photo: Jean Faucett /Shutterstock

8. Apostle Islands, Wisconsin — Lake Superior

It’s hard to nail down just one of the 22 islands that make up the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, though the largest one — Madeline — makes a good jumping off point to explore the others, full of golden-sand beaches backed by deep-green forests. But any trip to the Apostle Islands has to include boat trips to the sea caves. These stone cliffs are some of the most fascinating formations in America, and nearby you’ll find the lakes’ best scuba diving in caves underwater. If you’re into thick wetsuit diving, the Apostle Islands also have some notable shipwreck dives, plus eight lighthouses and 240 species of migratory birds.

Photo: Wolfe Island Music Festival

9. Wolfe Island, Ontario — Lake Ontario

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The best islands in the Great Lakes

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written by Jen Billock

updated 08.07.2019

The Great Lakes comprise the largest body of fresh water on the planet and more than 35,000 islands are found in the water system. Not all are inhabited and some aren't much more than a single rock jutting out of the lake with a lighthouse on it – but the inhabited ones provide the perfect opportunity for a weekend getaway. Here's our list of the best islands in the Great Lakes.

Lake Huron: Manitoulin Island for First Nations Tourism

Lake ontario: the thousand islands for history, lake michigan: beaver island for hunting and fishing, lake erie: south bass island for late-night revellers, lake superior: rabbit island for artists.

Manitoulin is largely undiscovered territory for modern travellers because it's difficult to get to without a car or boat, but it’s totally worth the effort. Six small reserves with names like Kagawong, M'Chigeeng and Sheguiandah dot the shores of this island and are the best places to find out more about Canada ’s First Nations people.

Canada’s most famous First Nations theatre group, De-Ba-Jeh-Mu-Jig (meaning “storyteller”), are based in Wikwemikong and do performances of native legends during summer.

The island is also unique for the small reddish hawberries that grow wild along its shores. Early settlers ate the berries in winter as a last-remaining food source – today, residents born on Manitoulin refer to themselves as “haweaters” as if it’s some secret club.

© Jen Eden/Shutterstock

This isn't just one island, but an archipelago of 1864 dots of land straddling the Canada-US border on the north-eastern exit of Lake Ontario into the St Lawrence River. The islands span fifty miles from the lake into the river, with dozens of waterfront towns (and even some cities) and restaurants.

The Thousand Islands have a rich history – they were a battleground for the War of 1812, an early 1900s playground for the rich and famous, and have always been a hub of maritime activity. This history is celebrated in the many museums, castles and mansions across the islands. If you're looking for a hands-on experience, take part in one of the re-enactments or living history demonstrations that overtake Sackets Harbor Battlefield during the summer.

© Elena Elisseeva/Shutterstock

Beaver Island's history is unique: it began as a strong Mormon settlement with 300 followers of the Strangite sect, the Mormons who chose to follow James Strang instead of Brigham Young. The Strangites weren't necessarily welcomed, and after Strang's death in 1856, mobs from nearby communities drove the settlers off the island. So then the Irish fisherman came – earning Beaver Island the nickname "America's Emerald Isle". They were quickly followed by droves of outdoor-loving tourists and now the island is a hotspot for fishing and hunting.

The Beaver Island Wildlife Club has been active for more than 70 years working to preserve and maintain the wildlife and its habitat. In addition to many available deer, wild turkey, and small game for hunting, the island is known for excellent fly-fishing and a robust supply of smallmouth bass, carp, and walleye.

© Thomas Barrat/Shutterstock

Party-lovers rejoice: you have your place in the Great Lakes, too. South Bass Island is home to one of Lake Erie's largest entertainment destinations, the town of Put-in-Bay. Beer Barrel Saloon claims to have the longest uninterrupted bar in the world, seating 160 people on its stools, and the Round House has great live bands daily. There's a reason it's called the "Key West of Lake Erie," and it's not just because of the sun-kissed sands.

South Bass Island © SF photo/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

This small island once belonged to a Swedish fisherman but was recently purchased by New Yorker, Rob Gorski, and turned into a thriving artists' colony. Gorski, an emergency room doctor, found the island on CraigsList. At the time, it only held the remains of a cabin, but Gorski saw more. Now the island has a shelter, a kitchen, and a sauna, and attracts artists from across the world to live in the wild wooded space and let Lake Superior's moods influence their art.

Gorski hopes to eventually open an office and studio space in nearby Calumet, Michigan, to showcase the work of the island's artists for locals and visitors interested in the robust art scene in the Upper Peninsula.

Explore of this area with the Rough Guides Great Lakes Snapshot . Compare flights , book hostels and hotels for your trip, and don’t forget to purchase travel insurance before you go.

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7 Best Great Lakes Destinations for an Unforgettable Vacation

Posted by Keith Langston April 21, 2023 Updated April 26, 2023

We research, evaluate and select travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

No, they’re not oceans…though collectively they are the largest body of freshwater in the world and are one of Earth’s most important ecoregions.

But the Great Lakes aren’t just ecologically important, they’re also beautiful, and their shorelines have everything from sand dunes to forested cliffs, small towns, massive cities, and even roller coasters. A visit to the region can be as big and thrilling or as quaint and peaceful as you want.

What all the destinations on this list have in common are beautiful lake views that stretch for hundreds of miles. You might not be on the Pacific or Atlantic, but a journey to America’s “Third Coast” is just as stunning and spectacular. Here’s seven destinations along the Great Lakes you need to check out.

1. Sandusky, Ohio

Located in northern Ohio on the shores of Lake Erie, Sandusky is a name that many people probably aren’t familiar with…but for anyone who loves roller coasters or theme parks, the town is instantly recognizable for its award-winning amusement park, Cedar Point . Built on a small peninsula jutting out into the lake, Cedar Point is ranked number 4 for most coasters in the world, clocking in with 16. It’s also known for its record-breakers since every single coaster in the park broke some kind of record when it opened, becoming the longest, fastest, steepest, or most looping.

But what really makes the park unique is its location. Because you’re on a thin peninsula, the top of every roller coaster gives you a bird’s-eye view of Lake Erie and you can see miles upon miles of water in every direction. On a clear day, you can even see Canada across the lake from some of the taller coasters.

Not a fan of thrills and chills? Why not pop up a tent at Cedar Point’s lakefront campground or chill out in the lazy river at Castaway Bay ? Or, if you really need an escape, Sandusky is a launching point for many of the ferries that take you out to the Lake Erie islands .

2. Traverse City, Michigan

Located in the northwestern tip of the Lower Peninsula, Traverse City is a secluded little hideaway on Lake Michigan that’s often visited by celebrities and politicians who need an escape from their busy lives. The town is known for being a culinary and artistic haven with lots of great vineyards, breweries, galleries, and local theaters.

But the town really lights up during its festivals. Documentarian Michael Moore created the Traverse City Film Festival , which showcases documentaries and indie films. Movies that have screened at the festival include Little Miss Sunshine, Grizzly Man, and The Babadook, among others. It draws in major Hollywood stars and gives locals and visitors a chance to get an early viewing of the year’s top films.

Michigan is also known for its cherry industry, so every summer the town holds the National Cherry Festival . Parades, concerts, and even an air show all compliment a week of binging on all things cherry – from cherry soda to cherry pancakes (with cherry syrup of course), to cherry pie, muffins, cookies, cakes, and more. And don’t arrive thinking it’s just some small-town fair. This event is huge and draws in crowds from around the world.

3. Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Hailed as the “Malibu of the Midwest”, Sheboygan has a surprisingly virile surf community who will head out into Lake Michigan searching for waves every month of the year, even in the dead of winter. The town became so famous for its surfing that a character in the animated surf film Surf’s Up was even inspired by two real Sheboygan residents. Check out EOS downtown for surf gear or to sign up for lessons.

But Sheboygan has so much more to offer than just gnarly waves, including an incredible museum that focuses on midwestern artists, the Kohler Arts Center and Preserve , and a stunning botanical garden, the Bookworm Gardens .

If you’re looking for a place to stay, the Blue Harbor Resort is the town’s most notable spot. Located right on the beach, the resort has an indoor water park, an arcade, and nightly bonfires with s’mores. During the warmer months, you can even walk right out the door and go for a swim.

Related Read:   7 Enchanting Treehouse Rentals in Wisconsin

4. Niagara on the Lake, Ontario

For a surprisingly well-rounded vacation, head to the small town of Niagara on the Lake in Ontario, or Youngstown, New York, which sits just across the river. Both towns overlook Lake Ontario and have historic forts that were important during the War of 1812. In Niagara on the Lake, there’s Fort George , and in Youngstown there’s Old Fort Niagara, which is part of the larger Fort Niagara State Park .

On the Canadian side, Niagara on the Lake has turned into a pretty impressive wine region and both towns are just 18 miles north of Niagara Falls , so if you want to visit the falls, but don’t want to pay the destination’s premium prices, stay at the gorgeous Queen’s Landing or Pillar and Post in Niagara on the Lake instead.

5. Door County, Wisconsin

With apple picking, iconic lighthouses, historic shipwrecks, deliciously charming small towns, hiking trails, epic fishing, fantastic museums, and even a surprising number of fairytale-looking churches, like the Boynton Chapel , which is hidden in the woods and looks straight out of a storybook…Why wouldn’t you visit  Door County ?

Located on Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula, the entire county puts you within arm’s reach of water on either side and gives you a wide variety of activities. Visit the bustling towns of Sturgeon Bay or Sister Bay and discover the area’s boutique shops and local restaurants, or head out to Newport State Park or Peninsula State Park to check out the vast wilderness the state is known for. No matter where you go, the county is sure to impress.

6. Marquette, Michigan

The biggest town in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Marquette is a bit of an oddball. Despite being a small city with a population of under 21,000 residents, Marquette is surprisingly progressive and has a great food and arts scene as evidenced by its bustling downtown that’s loaded with local restaurants and shops. Marquette also has a plethora of museums, like the DeVos Art Museum , Marquette Maritime Museum , and the Marquette History Center .

And naturally, sitting right on Lake Superior, the town is an outdoorsman’s paradise. With tons of fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and an emerging SUP scene, locals love getting out on the water, and the lake is a big draw for visitors as well. But land-lovers, fear not. You can get spectacular views of the lake while hiking through Presque Isle State Park .

7. Grand Marais, Minnesota

Another Lake Superior town, Grand Marais in Minnesota is a secluded little lakefront village, and it’s also one of the northernmost towns in the Lower 48. Whether you want to go camping , stay in lakeside cabins , or harbor-front villas , Grand Marais has a bit of everything.

For a town of just 1,300 residents, Grand Marais also has a robust local theater and massive art scene thanks to the Grand Marais Playhouse , which puts on shows throughout the year, and the  Grand Marais Art Colony  which offers classes and events. You can also find local galleries like Siverston  if you stroll through downtown.

But the real reason people visit is for the region’s gorgeous scenery. Rolling green hills lead down to the deep blue waters of Lake Superior, and the coastline is dotted with lighthouses. If you’re lucky, you might even spot moose, black bears, and the elusive lynx. Heading inland, hiking is also popular at Pincushion Mountain and Fall River, named after its majestic waterfall.

Explore More in the Midwest

10 Refreshing Michigan Swimming Lakes for a Summertime Dip

10 Best Hiking Trails at Devil’s Lake State Park

7 Idyllic Cabin Rentals in Michigan with Hot Tubs

8 Best Scenic Drives in Michigan for Dashboard Eye Candy

10 Romantic Getaways in Wisconsin for the Ultimate Retreat

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Seen in: Michigan , Midwest , Minnesota , Ohio , Travel , Wisconsin

Posted by Keith Langston

Keith Langston is a travel and entertainment writer who is constantly torn between having adventures and playing video games. He’s written for publications like Insider, Lonely Planet, and Entertainment Weekly, among others. You can find him hiking the tea fields of Longjing, swimming beneath waterfalls in New Zealand, or eating cookies while playing Xbox.

Stay in touch with him on Instagram @KeithFromOhio .

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Travel Destinations

Top 10 islands to explore in the great lakes.

The Great Lakes present miles of isles to explore. More specifically, over 35,000 hilltops of land rose above the waterline of the Great Lakes Basin during the last ice age. Today these islands, many of which are only reachable by boat, add the appeal of destinations within a destination. Plus, each of the five Great Lakes boasts its own personality, as do these lake-based islands. Some offer an incredible natural wilderness perfect for scouting on foot or paddling around by kayak, while others are home to resorts with five-star services ready to nurture an incredible vacation. Here are 10 of our favorites and the scoop on what to see, experience and enjoy.

LAKE SUPERIOR

Stockton Island

Toes in the sand are easy at the largest island in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Nature is the call to visit, and the sand here figures in both beauty and entertainment. Most notable is a scenic sand bridge (called a tombolo), lined with pine forests, lagoons and dunes, that connects Presque Isle Point to the rest of the island. Start a visit at the boat docks near the Point, where a park ranger-manned visitor’s center is open in the summer. You find a few exhibits, information on the 14 miles of hiking trails and camping how-tos. Don’t miss Julian Bay Beach to the east of the Point, which is home to the “barking sands.” In the right weather conditions, the wind blowing over the sand sounds like the baritone bark of a dog. Companies on the mainland offer sightseeing cruises to Stockton and the other 21 Apostle Islands that lie off Wisconsin’s Bayfield Peninsula.

Where to Dock: Apostle Islands Marina

Grand Island

Located only a half-mile off mainland Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, it’s the striking scenery — sandstone cliffs, hardwood forests and pristine beaches that gives this 21-square-mile National Recreation Area its grandiose name. The Grand Island Ferry Service offers a two and a half- to three-hour bus tour over the island’s gravel roads in the summer. Otherwise, hiking and biking, with mountain bikes available for rent, are the only ways to get around. Boaters can cruise to the island’s north shore and see the two-story, brick-built Grand Island North Lighthouse. Dating to 1856, its perch atop a 175-foot cliff makes the light the highest above sea level in America. Docks or marinas are not available, but anchoring is permitted and best in Trout or Murray Bays.

Where to Dock: Munising Bayshore Marina

LAKE MICHIGAN

Beaver Island

Fly, ferry or float your boat to the largest island in Lake Michigan. At 54 square miles and a year-round population of nearly 600, you can enjoy plenty of creature comforts as well as flora and fauna. Several shops, galleries, a toy museum, a maritime museum, restaurants and a brewery are all within walking distance of the main harbor. Two marinas are here, too. “We have many Beaver Island natural assets, including plentiful sand dunes, beaches and wetlands. We’re also called the Dark Sky Island. Our 32-mile distance from the mainland in Charlevoix means no light pollution. Many evenings, the northern lights appear to put on a show,” says Paul Cole, director of the island’s Chamber of Commerce. The 42-mile Beaver Island Water Trail is ideal for adventure kayakers to circumnavigate, with opportunities for beach camping along the way.

Where to Dock: Beaver Island Municipal Marina ‍

Chambers Island

A tour of the Chambers Island Lighthouse, not normally open to the public, is available each June and October as part of Wisconsin’s Door County Lighthouse Festivals. The four-hour tour departs from the town dock in Fish Creek, on the Door Peninsula six miles away, and entails a four-mile, round-trip hike to the light. Docents describe the history of the 1868-built light, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beyond this, regular ferry service does not run to the island, located in Green Bay, an arm off Lake Michigan. “Chambers Island is mostly private, but the Door County Land Trust protects 900 acres,” tells Jen Rogers, media manager for Destination Door County. “You can take your boat for the day and dock at the public dock. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sandy beach, bike the unpaved roads or hike the trails.”

Where to Dock: Menominee Marina

North Manitou Island

Take a walk back in time on your own or join the Leelanau Historical Society (in Michigan’s mainland town of Leland) for its annual day-trip, narrated tour to this 22-square mile island a dozen miles offshore. The historic and mostly uninhabited village sits steps away from the public dock. See the U.S. Life-Saving Station, a National Historic Landmark that dates to the late 1800s. Walk down Cottage Row, summer homes built for wealthy Chicagoans. Historians say that the Blossom Cottage, built in 1894, is the early work of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Beyond this bygone civilization, the rest of North Manitou is a wonderful wilderness. It’s part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You find hiking trails, rustic campsites and good bass fishing in inland Lake Manitou.

Where to Dock: Leland Township Marina

Mackinac Island

Star of many movies, like the 1980s romantic drama Somewhere in Time starring Christopher Reeve and Jane Seymour, this four-plus square mile island and its focal point Grand Hotel definitely offers A-list features. Mackinac was named the Best Island in the Continental United States in Travel + Leisure’s 2022 World’s Best awards. This national landmark’s attraction is its slow pace owing to a ban on motor vehicles in favor of horse-drawn carriages and bicycles. “The island is home to Fort Mackinac, a Revolutionary-era fort, natural rock formations, world-famous Mackinac Island fudge, diverse dining, unique shopping and entertaining nightlife,” invites Steph Castelein, the events and marketing manager at the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau. Arrive by ferry or flight, or dock your yacht at the public marina where many of the 80-slips are available for transient use.

Where to Dock: Mackinac Island State Harbor

Drummond Island

At 134 square miles, this is the second largest freshwater island in the United States. More than 1,000 residents live here, with vacationers swelling the population each summer. Accommodations span from resorts to B&Bs, plus restaurants, shops, parks, a nature preserve and a wildlife refuge. Boating-friendly is a big yes. “Drummond offers the amazing setting of dozens of smaller offshore islands and locations where you can stay either on the hook or at one of the island’s marinas,” says Tom Gibbons at the Drummond Island Tourism Association. Particularly, “The North Channel, hugging the island’s northern shoreline, offers special destination points like the Fossil Ledges, Marble Head and Pilot Cove, the latter of which you can pull up for a shore lunch and throw a fishing line in the water.” Some people are so taken by the beauty, Gibbons adds, that they boat around all 142 miles of Drummond’s shoreline.

Where to Dock: Drummond Island Yacht Haven

South Bass Island

Quaint paints a mental picture of the vibe on this tiny 3.7-mile-long by 1.5-mile-wide island, reached by a 20-minute ferry ride from Port Clinton, OH. In fact, the village of Put-In-Bay is often described as the Key West of Lake Erie, with its fun and funky bars, restaurants and shops. The destination especially comes alive for its annual Pyrate Fest, June 23-25, 2023. Parades, cannon firing demonstrations, a bar crawl, cardboard boat race and the Best Pirate Costume Contest bolster the fun. BYOB (bring your own boat). Public docks and private marinas offer many places to tie up. “Rent a golf cart and take a ride to the top of Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial. It’s a can’t-miss experience,” says Mark Mathys, on behalf of the Put-In-Bay Visitors & Convention Bureau.  

Where to Dock: Miller Marina

Kelleys Island

Eat, drink and merrily boat to this 4.4-mile destination, the largest of the American Lake Erie islands. By ferry, it’s only four miles north of Marblehead and 12 miles from Sandusky, both in western Ohio. Or dock at places such as Dockers, the Casino or West Bay, and go ashore for a bite to eat. A short distance away on the island’s south coast is the Crooked Tree Vineyard, with its handcrafted vintage wines and tasting room open from May to September. “Visitors should also check out our state park, the famous glacial grooves, history museum and sculpture garden,” says Joseph Sugalski, executive director of the Kelleys Island Chamber.

Where to Dock: Seaway Marina or Portside Marina

LAKE ONTARIO

Association Island

Once home to a General Electric execs retreat, a YMCA summer camp and a training center for the 1976 U.S. Olympic sailing team, this 65-acre island sits at the tip of the Stony Point peninsula in New York’s Thousand Islands. It’s connected to the mainland by a two-lane causeway, thus making it the perfect surf and turf vacation destination. Arrive by boat, tie up in the 60-slip marina and rent a deluxe cabin. Or drive over and park your RV lakefront. A general store, swimming pool, playground and dog park add to the enjoyment. “You can also schedule an excursion through our on-site fishing charter, take advantage of pontoon boat and kayak rentals, or grab a meal at the Black Catte,” says Neal Gulkis, Sun Communities’ public relations manager.

Where to Dock: Association Island RV Campground & Marina (with campground reservations only)

Want to Stay In the Loop?

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Dan Welldon

The Great Lakes

Don't be fooled by all the corn. Behind it lurks surfing beaches and Tibetan temples, car-free islands and the green-draped night lights of the aurora borealis. The Great Lakes takes its knocks for being middle-of-nowhere boring, so consider the moose-filled national parks and Hemingway, Dylan and Vonnegut sites to be its little secret.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Wrigley Field

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Museum of Science & Industry

The MSI is the largest science museum in the Western hemisphere and a place to completely geek out. Highlights include a WWII German U-boat nestled in an…

Art Institute of Chicago

The second-largest art museum in the country, the Art Institute houses a treasure trove from around the globe. The collection of impressionist and…

Henry Ford Museum

The Henry Ford Museum contains a fascinating wealth of American culture. It’s comprised of two parts: the indoor Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation,…

Eastern Market

One of the oldest and largest year-round bazaars in the United States, Eastern Market draws Detroiters of all types to its six-block spread of wares…

Millennium Park

There's free admission to Millennium Park, the playful heart of the city. It shines with whimsical public art, both permanent and temporary exhibits, and…

Willis Tower

Willis Tower is Chicago's tallest building (and one of the world's loftiest). Breathe deeply during the ear-popping, 70-second elevator ride to the 103rd…

Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum houses some 30 million artifacts and includes everything but the kitchen sink – beetles, mummies, gemstones, Bushman the stuffed ape –…

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The Great Lakes and beyond

July 23, 2021

Looking for some of the most beautiful travel destinations in the Great Lakes Region? The Great Lakes are home to harbor towns, soft sand beaches, rugged cliffs and waterfalls. These 15 Great Lakes destinations make for a perfect getaway!

why this blog?   hi there! My name is Maddy, and I’ve lived most of my life in the Great Lakes Region, working as an outdoor adventure guide & guidebook writer. I grew up in Michigan, spending almost every summer and many winters at my Grandparents cabin in the woods in Northern Michigan. After college, I began working as an adventure guide on Lake Superior! I’m so excited to show you around some of the beautiful places in the Great Lakes!

Best Great Lakes Travel Destinations

The Midwest is often overlooked as a travel destination, but the Great Lakes Region is a true hidden gem. Sometimes called the “third coast” or “north coast”, the Great Lakes mark the US-Canadian Border. Here, you can find rugged cliffs, waterfalls, beaches, and more!

The Great Lakes Region is the perfect travel destination for outdoor lovers, a relaxing getaway, or anyone looking for off-the-beaten-path adventure. Here, I’ll focus on Lake Superior and Lake Michigan destinations. Here’s a breakdown of where to travel in the Great Lakes region:

Note: This post contains affiliate links! That means if you choose to make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you.

What to pack for Great Lakes Adventures:

Summers on the Great Lakes can be chilly, particularly in June and early July! Pack for a variety of weather conditions. I recommend…

• A lightweight, long hiking pant. I use  this pair  from Kuhl or this budget-friendly pair from REI. I wear a women’s size 8 short and have found that both of these pairs are both flattering & functional!
• A fleece. Any fleece will do, but I really love my  Patagonia Synchilla
• Wool baselayers. Five years of heavy paddling and my  Smartwool baselayers  are the only wool baselayers I’ve had that have really stood the test of time. The basic REI stuff lasted about a season, my Icebreakers top also didn’t really last long. 
• Study hiking boots. I like my  Bridger Mids.  Working in outdoor retail I literally never had anyone try on these shoes and not buy them. Pair with  Darn Tough  hiking socks. 
• A puffy jacket. It can be cool even in the summer along the coast, especially evenings. My partner Andy (also a wilderness guide) swears by the  Patagonia Nano Puff . I like my  Helly Hansen Liftloft . 
• A Tent:  Read my budget tent recommendations here!
• A day hiking pack: I love my  Perimeter 35L , made by local (to me!) Two Harbors company Granite Gear. I was gifted this pack a few years back and it’s still my go-to day pack.
• Sleeping Bag: Check out the  Nemo Disco  down sleeping bag for the perfect comfortable set up for chilly nights. Pair with a comfortable sleeping pad .
• A raincoat. I love the  Moss Raincoat from Helly Hansen ; It’s affordable, cute, and super durable.

1) The Sleeping Bear Dunes

Ever wanted to watch the sunset 400 feet above Lake Michigan? Or swim in crystal clear, salt-free water? Look no further than Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Located on the edge of Lake Michigan, the Sleeping Bear Dunes have some of the best hiking trails in the Midwest. Between bike trails and beaches, the Sleeping Bear Dunes are one of the best travel destinations in the Great Lakes.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is great place for families! Beaches like North Bar Lake Beach provide easy access to both Lake Michigan and a smaller warm lake, and there are many easy hikes in the Sleeping Bear Dunes .

When visiting the Sleeping Bear Dunes, pack a lunch! While there are plenty of trails, there are very few restaurants in the area. The few restaurants will be crowded and have long wait times. There are several campgrounds within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, including DH Day Campground and the Platte River Campground. Book your campsite in advance online at Recreation.gov .

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is home to some of the best Great Lakes beaches, like Esch Road Beach pictured above. If you’re wondering where to travel in the Great Lakes region, make sure Sleeping Bear is near the top of your list.

Read: 25 Best Things to do in the Sleeping Bear Dunes

2) leland, michigan.

Tucked away in the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula, Leland has beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan, hiking trails, wildflowers, and crystal clear water. One of the best harbor towns in the Grand Lakes, Leland is home to the adorable riverside Fishtown.

Historic Fishtown is a great place to walk the docks, and eat local smoked fish. My favorite Fishtown activity is to have a small picnic on the docks and watch for fish in the Leland River below, then head out to the Clay Cliffs for a quick hike.

Leland is a perfect Great Lakes travel destination, with similar beaches to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, beautiful hiking trails, but somewhat crowded. While summer is the busiest and traditionally beautiful month, visit in the fall to avoid the crowds.

3) Traverse City, Michigan

Located at the base of the Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is the cherry capitol of Michigan. If you’re looking to get Up North and looking for an exciting place to base camp for the week, Traverse City is the Great Lakes summer vacation spot.

In town, you can walk, bike, or swim right on the harbor. Traverse City is also home to several awesome breweries with delicious food, including North Peak Brewing Company , Rare Bird Brewpub , and The Shed Beer Garden .

Traverse City is surrounded by great hiking and paddling options on all sides. From Traverse City, it’s easy to day trip to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, Leland, Torch Lake, or the Manistee National Forest. After a long day on the trails, head up to the Mission Point Lighthouse for a perfect sunset.

For 54 pages of hiking, secret swimming holes, campsites, overlooks, beaches, and more, download the Exploring Michigan eBook

4) torch lake, michigan.

Torch Lake is best known for its Caribbean blue waters. At 19 miles long and 2 miles wide, Torch Lake offers endless potential for boaters, fishermen, and water lovers.

The most popular spot on Torch Lake is located at its southern end. The best spot on Torch Lake is the Torch Lake sandbar, which can only be accessed by boat. Here, the water’s of Torch Lake hover between six feet and six inches deep, making it the perfect spot for swimming! Nearby public access can be found on the Torch River, or at various other spots on the Chain of Lakes.

Be especially careful on Torch Lake! Unsurprisingly, the area is as popular as it is beautiful. When paddling and swimming on the lake, lookout for careless boat drivers. If you are in a motorized boat, watch for swimmers with extra care.

While Torch Lake itself is a dream to swim in, did you know Torch Lake is just one in a chain of beautiful lakes? Elk Lake is also a beautiful spot to visit and get away from the crowds, and Lake Skegemog has beautiful wildlife. Torch Lake is just a few miles away from the Lake Michigan shoreline, and Barnes Park Campground is a perfect place to pitch a tent.

When you’re visiting Torch, be sure to check out town of Bellaire, Michigan. Bellaire’s Short’s Brewing Company is my favorite brewery in the state! Nearby, you can go for a peaceful paddle on the crystal clear Grass River. The Bellaire area is also home to great hiking, skiing, and mountain biking . Between tropical water and beautiful trails, the Torch Lake area is a must see Great Lakes destination.

Check out the ultimate all-season guide to Bellaire, Michigan!

5) the pictured rocks.

Ever dream of colorful cliffs and clear water? While Lake Michigan has soft sand dunes, Lake Superior has rugged cliffs, long hiking trails, and remote sea kayaking routes.

The Pictured Rocks are a bucket list item for any traveller. This national lakeshore has both family friendly hiking trails and more difficult treks. Near the lakeshore, you can find massive sandstone cliffs with waterfalls into the lake. Hike through the forest for more waterfalls and wildflowers, or take a swim in ice cold Lake Superior.

In the Pictured Rocks you can swim, take a boat tour of the cliffs, sea kayak, hike, and more. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is the perfect Great Lakes summer vacation destination for families and hardcore hikers both.

Note: Sea kayaking on Lake Superior can be incredible dangerous! Risks include fog, large waves, and hypothermic water temperatures. Read more about the risks of sea kayaking Lake Superior here .

Read: 30 Best Things to do In the Pictured Rocks!

6) the keweenaw peninsula.

When most people flock to the Sleeping Bear Dunes or Pictured Rocks for their summer vacation, why not head farther north? The Keweenaw Peninsula of Michigan is a beautiful and off the beaten path Great Lakes destination for travelers looking for adventure!

In the Keweenaw Peninsula, you can find beautiful sand beaches, rugged mountain biking trails, waterfalls, hiking trails, and more! For guided sea kayaking tours or mountain biking expertise, visit the Keweenaw Adventure Company located in Copper Harbor, Michigan.

Pictured above is Bete Gris Beach and Wetlands Preserve , a beautiful spot for a swim in Lake Superior.

Overall, the Keweenaw Peninsula is the perfect place for anyone wondering where to travel in the Great Lakes to beat the crowds and have an adventure.

7) Ashland, Wisconsin

Located at the end of the Chequamegon Bay, Ashland is a great compromise between a small Great Lakes harbor town and a small vibrant city. Ashland is the perfect Great Lakes summer vacation spot for families looking for both great access to the outdoors and a variety of things to do in town.

Pictured above is one of the many cascades in Copper Falls State Park, only a half hour drive from Ashland.

From Ashland, Wisconsin, you have easy access to day trip to the Apostle Islands, Copper Falls State Park , Pattison State Park, and Amnicon Falls State Park . Ashland is the perfect spot for anyone looking to see as much of Wisconsin’s Northwoods as possible in a short amount of time.

8) Bayfield, Wisconsin

If you’re seeking a sleepy Great Lakes harbor town with sailboats, islands, and beautiful hiking, visit Bayfield, WI. Bayfield is a small but charming town right in the shores of Lake Superior. In recent years, Bayfield has gained popularity as a sea kayaking destination . But there’s more to do in Bayfield than paddle!

From Bayfield, head over to Madeline Island for adventures in cliff jumping. Drive out to the Lakeshore Trail on the mainland during a bad weather day to experience the full power of Lake Superior.

Visit Lost Creek Falls in Cornucopia for a nearby, family friendly hike. Overall, Bayfield is a perfect Great Lakes summer vacation spot for people of all ages.

Check out 30 things to do while visiting Bayfield, Wisconsin

9) the apostle islands wilderness.

Just outside of Bayfield, you can find one of the most overlooked wilderness areas in the Midwest. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is home to 21 wilderness islands in Lake Superior!

A trip through the Apostle Islands will take you far from mainland and out into the heart of Lake Superior. Explore sea caves, beaches, crystal clear water, and observe wildlife. In my opinion, Stockton Island is the best island in the Apostles. But you don’t have to take it from me! Start planning that overnight sea kayaking trip for yourself!

The Apostle Islands are not a beginner level sea kayaking trip! All paddling in the Apostle Islands requires safety equipment, knowledge of Lake Superior weather patterns, and sea kayaking experience. Read kayaking safety on Lake Superior here . To book a guided day sea kayaking trip or an overnight adventure in the Apostle Islands, visit Lost Creek Adventures .

Especially beautiful in August, the Apostle Islands Wilderness is a bucket list Great Lakes destination. If you’re wondering where to travel in the Great Lakes Region for maximum adventure and solitude, head to the Apostle Islands.

Check out 30 Best Things to Do in the Apostle Islands & Bayfield

10) two harbors, minnesota.

On the Minnesota side of Lake Superior, Two Harbors is a great spot to basecamp on the North Shore. Visit the iconic Castle Danger Brewery and watch the Great Lakes ships come and go from the Two Harbors Lighthouse.

After your time in town, head north along Highway 61 towards Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park.

Gooseberry Falls is one of the best ADA-accessible places to experience the North Shore of Minnesota. In addition to some of the most family friendly hiking trails, Gooseberry Falls State Park also has some of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in Minnesota.

While Gooseberry has waterfalls, Split Rock Lighthouse is just slightly farther north and has incredible views of the rugged Lake Superior Shoreline. Split Rock is the perfect place for a picnic on your way farther north!

Love FREE detailed hiking & trail guides? Want detailed road trip advice, links to incredible campsites, and more? Join the  Hello Stranger Newsletter  for outdoor advice from your favorite paddling guide/indie outdoor writer (me!)

11) tettegouche state park.

Another incredible spot along the North Shore is Tettegouche State Park with massive cliffs and waterfalls! Tettegouche is one of the most popular North Shore photography locations and for good reason. There are four different waterfalls in Tettegouche State Park, and multiple incredible overlooks.

Although the park is busy, you can still find solitude on some of the more difficult trails and Superior Hiking Trail Spurs. My favorite spot in Tettegouche State Park is Palisade Head (pictured above).

12) Grand Marais, Minnesota

Are you searching for the best harbor town in the Great Lakes? Look no further than the sleepy coastal small town of Grand Marais. Between Lake Superior and the Boundary Waters, Grand Marais is one of the best Great Lakes summer vacation spots.

While in Grand Marais, spend your day hiking some of the great trails in the area, out on one of the many local lakes, or just exploring town!

While most people only visit Grand Marias in the summer, this town is a perfect all season getaway. With cross country skiing and frozen waterfalls in the winter, leaf peeping in the fall, waterfalls in spring, and an idyllic summer, it doesn’t get much better than Grand Marais.

Read about the best winter adventures in Grand Marais!

13) the gunflint trail.

After leaving Grand Marais, take a trip up the Gunflint Trail into the heart of the Boundary Waters. The Gunflint Trail is a road that winds past inland lakes deep into the Boundary Waters Wilderness.

While most people head into the BWCA to canoe, there’s more to do than paddle! Hike one of the many trails along the Gunflint Trail, fish some of the inland lakes, or watch a lakeside sunset.

The Gunflint Trail and BWCA are connected to Lake Superior both in watershed and culturally. The Anishinabee/Ojibwe people once guided French fur traders through the Boundary Waters, along the Lakes and then out to Lake Superior. Eventually, this journey led to Montreal.

Although today the BWCA and Lake Superior are mostly seen for their recreational value, these areas still have cultural and ancestral ties to the Anishinabee People.

Hike the best hiking trails along the Gunflint Trail

14) grand portage, minnesota.

Located on the land of the Grand Portage band of Anishbabee/Ojibwe, Grand Portage is a beautiful place to learn about the history and culture of Lake Superior. Visit Grand Portage National Monument , one of the only US National Parks run by an Indigenous Tribe (Grand Portage Ojibwe) and the park service together.

Grand Portage has beautiful hiking trails, the largest waterfall in Minnesota, incredible views of Lake Superior, and the incredibly unique and valuable Grand Portage National Monument.

15) Isle Royale National Park

Perhaps the single best Great Lakes travel destination, Isle Royale National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the Great Lakes. Here, you can see wolves, moose, foxes, eagles, and more.

Isle Royale is an isolated National Park 18 miles from the nearest mainland. The island can only be reached by boat or plane, and is home to some of the best backpacking trails in the Midwest.

Isle Royale is perfect for people looking for the ultimate Great Lakes adventure. The island is closed in the winter months due to inaccessibility, but Isle Royale makes for the perfect backcountry summer vacation.

Check out a detailed guide to visiting Isle Royale National Park

Love exploring the midwest and great lakes region check out these midwest adventure ideas.

• Read about 9 Incredible Michigan Road Trip Ideas
• Explore the best winter travel destinations in the Midwest!
• Check out the most beautiful Midwest Summer Vacation Spots!

free resources like this one are made possible by paying subscribers of the  Hello Stranger Newsletter .  Join the newsletter today to connect with thousands of like-minded adventurers and get gritty and honest adventure stories delivered right to your inbox (aka read my diary).

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Finding Fun in Michigan & Beyond

6 Amazing Great Lakes Islands to Explore

The Great Lakes contain over 35,000 islands, and many of them are uninhabited. However, a select few draw sailors and visitors from all over North America during the brief summer tourist season. Here are six of our favorite islands on the Great Lakes.

Island-Hopping on the Great Lakes

When you think of island- hopping, your mind turns to swaying palm trees, seaside tiki huts, and white-sand beaches. However, with over 35,000 islands, the salt and shark-free Great Lakes have some of the most inviting and unique chances for island exploring anywhere in the world. Some of these magnificent island destinations are only accessible by boat or floatplane, while others offer regularly scheduled ferry services. Here are five choice island destinations to explore.

Great Lakes Islands – #1 Apostle Islands

This is a group of 22 islands in Lake Superior, with the largest being Madeline Island. All the islands except for Madeline are part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

The islands are internationally known for their beautiful sea caves that are created when Lake Superior freezes in the winter. Madeline Island is inhabited year-round but is only accessible by boat or plane. It is a camping and hiking paradise and has a golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones.

The Apostle Islands are a well-known sailing and cruising destination in the Great Lakes with many gunk-hole spots to anchor and explore.

Great Lakes Islands – #2 Isle Royale National Park

This is Michigan’s only national park, located in northern Lake Superior. It is also the most remote national park in the lower 48! Considered the ideal destination for serious hikers and paddlers, it has established trails, rustic campsites, and shelters.

The two major embarkation points to an Isle Royale adventure are Rock Harbor on the northern end of the island and Windigo on the southern tip. The park has a lodge and cottages at Rock Harbor for those who want to experience the park without camping.

The park is considered the least-visited national park due to its remoteness. Ferry and seaplane service is available from Houghton and Copper Harbor Michigan as well as Grand Portage, Minnesota.

Original Cabins Can Still Be Seen on Isle Royale If you hike or paddle around the north end of the island, you will see some of the last private cottages still allowed on the island. These have been passed down from generation to generation but are slowly being phased out. Some cabins and boathouses have been left to nature to slowly fade away.

Great Lakes Islands – #3 Beaver Island

The largest island in Lake Michigan, this island has a ferry service from Charlevoix so you can bring your car and tour its 55 square miles. Known for its beaches and hiking trails, its remoteness draws those looking for an adventure off the beaten path.

Beaver Island was, for a brief time, considered a kingdom of sorts for the Strangite Mormon Church in 1850. The “kingdom” ended in 1856 with the assassination of its leader—John Strang. Today, the island is a year-round tourist and vacation destination. The island also has the nickname “America’s Emerald Isle,” as so many of its full-time residents are of Irish descent.

Great Lakes Islands – #4 Charity Island

Big Charity Island sits in the middle of Saginaw Bay about halfway between Tawas and Caseville. An excellent fishing area, it was known as a resting spot for Native Americans crossing the bay and as a source for chert from which to make arrowheads.

This is one of the Michigan Islands with a lighthouse that guards the north shore and Explorer Charters offers visitors transport to the island from Caseville during the summer season. Visitors can tour the restored lighthouse and enjoy gourmet dining while watching the sunset over the bay.

Great Lakes Islands – #5 Drummond Island

This is the largest inland island in the United States, and at 249 square miles, there is a lot to do. It’s a true paradise for sportsmen and sailors.

For sailors, this island guards the famous cruising grounds of the North Channel. De Tour Village is considered a must-do stop for provisions and fuel before venturing into the wilds of northern Lake Huron.

The biggest draw of this island is sport fishing. Charter captains can take you on the hunt for large lake trout and salmon. The other unique activity is exploring the numerous backwoods trails on ATVs.

Great Lakes Islands – #6 Manitou Islands

Located in northern Lake Michigan, North and South Manitou Island is part of an island chain that extends north to the Straits of Mackinaw. These islands are a part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with almost their entire area available for hiking, camping, and exploration. Outside the small village, the 15,000 acres of North Manitou Island is considered a wilderness area. The island is home to numerous species of hawks and eagles.

The Legend of the Sleeping Bear and Manitou Islands

The two islands are associated with one of the most famous Native American myths in the northern Great Lakes. Long ago a great famine had spread over the land. Longingly, a mother bear and two famished cubs walked the shore on the Wisconsin side, gazing wistfully across the great lake toward Michigan, which in those days was the land of plenty.

Hunger overcame their timidness and the bears hurled into the lake out toward the Michigan side. As they got closer and closer to the Michigan shore, the mother bear’s encouragement urged on the weary cubs. When finally, within sight of the land of plenty, the mother’s heart broke when she saw one of the baby cubs sink and drown. With the remaining cub, she struggled to reach the shore. After two miles of slow wearisome swimming, the second of her beloved cubs also perished.

The mother bear finally reached the beach, alone, she crept to the top of a giant sand dune to watch for any sign of her cubs. As she gazed, two beautiful islands slowly rose to mark the watery graves of the cubs. Heartbroken and alone, the mother bear gave herself to the great spirit, wishing to join her cubs.

Seeing the lifeless mother bear without her cubs, The Great Spirit Manitou, who had created the two islands to mark the spot where the cubs disappeared, turned to the Michigan shore and created a massive solitary dune to cover and forever symbolize the faithful mother bear. The North and South Manitou islands and massive Sleeping Bear sand dunes remain today as a remembrance of this fantastic story for all to enjoy.

Related Exploring of the Great Lakes

Exploring Caseville Harbor – While it seems that all the festivities of Cheeseburger in Caseville are happening up on Main Street there is an entire crowd of Parrot Heads in the harbor. Caseville is blessed with several marinas and all of them shift into high gear during the festival. Many of the marinas coordinate with decorations and festivities.

Harbor Beach – Upbound Port of Call – As the world’s largest freshwater man-made harbor, the port of Harbor Beach Michigan is an ideal stopping point for sailors making their way up the shore of Lake Huron. With its protected port and town that’s steps away from the Marina, Harbor Beach offers sailors and boaters a welcome break and an ideal provisioning point.

Fun in Tawas – A Boaters Fun Spot – As the world’s largest freshwater man-made harbor, the port of Harbor Beach Michigan is an ideal stopping point for sailors making their way up the shore of Lake Huron. With its protected port and town that’s steps away from the Marina, Harbor Beach offers sailors and boaters a welcome break and an ideal provisioning point.

Taste Test these Five Michigan Wines – We are always looking for local options. Michigan winemaking has come a long way. Check these delicious Michigan wines for your next BBQ or party.

Malcom Mott

Malcom Mott is our junior editor and contibrutes outside publications to various sites at Thumbwind Publications. He is also editor at AITrueReview.

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Great Lakes cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

The Great Lakes probably isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of cruising. But in recent years, the region has grown enormously as a cruise destination — and for good reason. Touring the Great Lakes by ship is by far the easiest way to see a wide range of the area's attractions — from vibrant cities to natural wonders — in a single trip.

When planning Great Lakes cruises, you have many things to consider: when to go for the best Great Lakes cruise experience, which cruise line is best suited to your travel style, the best Great Lakes cruise ports to visit and which shoreside activities you want to prioritize. It's not the kind of trip you want to throw together at the last minute, especially since the best fare deals typically go to organized travelers who book early.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here, The Points Guy offers up a guide to everything you need to know about planning a sailing in the Great Lakes.

Why cruise the Great Lakes?

The Great Lakes region may not be a bucket list destination on the scale of Alaska or Antarctica. But it has a lot to offer — more than many people may realize.

Along the banks of the five lakes that are at the core of the region — Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan and Lake Superior — you'll find some of Middle America's greatest cities, charming small towns, historic sites and wonders both natural and human-made. Plus, there are the lakes themselves, which together are roughly the size of the U.K. and make up the largest freshwater ecosystem on the planet. Accounting for 21% of all the world's fresh water, they truly are a marvel.

All this can be seen via an overland trip, of course, and many people explore the Great Lakes region by car or on motorcoach tours. But the region is so sprawling — the Great Lakes touch eight U.S. states and the Canadian province of Ontario — that logistically it's almost impossible to experience the area in a broad way on a single trip without going by ship.

On a single Great Lakes cruise, you can see the world-class architecture and museums of Chicago, take a carriage ride through the carless streets of Mackinac Island, Michigan, and gaze upon the splendor that is Niagara Falls along the New York border — all without having to get behind the wheel of a car or unpacking and re-packing your suitcase more than once.

When do cruises go to the Great Lakes?

The Great Lakes cruise season is a short one, due mostly to the weather. With winters being cold and snowy in the region, cruise lines stick to the warmer months of May to September for Great Lakes sailings.

The weather isn't the only limiting factor. The cruise season in the Great Lakes is also limited in its length by the opening and closing of the St. Lawrence Seaway — the system of locks, canals and channels that connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean. Cruise vessels that operate in the Great Lakes can't access the region until the locks on the St. Lawrence Seaway open for the summer, something that typically happens the last week of March. They need to be out of the Great Lakes before the St. Lawrence Seaway closes for the winter (typically in December).

Great Lakes cruise weather can be chilly at the start of the season, with low temperatures in the 40s in May in some areas and highs in the 60s. It warms up considerably by July and August, with high temperatures in the 70s and 80s.

When you want to go will depend on which activities you want to do, how you feel about cool weather and the price. Cruises at the beginning of the Great Lakes cruise season in May are generally a bit less expensive than those in June, July, August and September.

Best Great Lakes itineraries

A relatively small number of ships sail in the Great Lakes during any given year. But, even so, they offer a wide range of Great Lakes itineraries. Some of the ships that operate in the region will alternate between three or even four different routes during the short summer season, giving you lots of choices.

Lengthwise, you'll find Great Lakes voyages ranging from seven to 15 nights. Some of the sailings travel across all five of the Great Lakes. Others focus on just three or four of the interconnected bodies of water. Some of the ships also offer sailings that combine travel on one or more of the Great Lakes with a passage through the St. Lawrence Seaway. In some cases, these latter trips include travel all the way to Montreal.

The diversity in Great Lakes itineraries extends to their start and end points. A large percentage of all Great Lakes cruises begin or end in Chicago, Milwaukee or Toronto. But there also are Great Lakes sailings that begin or end in Thunder Bay, Ontario; Duluth, Minnesota; Montreal and Detroit.

In most cases, Great Lakes sailings are one-way trips. You'll start in, say, Toronto, and work your way west to Chicago — or vice versa.

Some Great Lakes itineraries only include stops at relatively small towns such as Midland, Parry Sound and Little Current in Ontario; and Muskegon, Marquette and Houghton in Michigan. Others mix in calls at some of the bigger cities of the Great Lakes region, notably Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, Cleveland and Toronto. On longer sailings, vessels often will overnight in such places as Green Bay, Wisconsin, and Thunder Bay.

Car-free Mackinac Island at the top of Michigan is a common stop on Great Lakes voyages, as is Niagara Falls, which sits between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario.

Pro tip: If your Great Lakes cruise begins or ends in Chicago, Milwaukee or Toronto, add a pre- or post-cruise stay of a night or two in the cities to see them in more depth.

Best Great Lakes cruise lines

Most of the world's biggest cruise lines — including Royal Caribbean , Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line — can't operate in the Great Lakes because their ships are too big to enter the region through the St. Lawrence Seaway. This has turned the Great Lakes into an exclusive zone for a handful of smaller cruise operators that focus on very small vessels.

The two main players in Great Lakes cruising are Viking (a newcomer in 2022) and Pearl Seas Cruises. Each has one vessel devoted to the region (Viking Octantis and Pearl Mist, respectively).

Both cater to a generally older crowd, which is the main market for Great Lakes cruises. Viking's itineraries have the most outdoorsy options, while Pearl Seas Cruises offers trips with a lot of small-town stops.

Two more lines that occasionally operate sailings in the region are German line Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and France-based Ponant. Tour organizer Smithsonian Journeys also occasionally offers Great Lakes sailings using chartered Ponant vessels.

All of the above lines operate ships in the Great Lakes that carry fewer than 400 passengers. Some carry as few as 202 passengers. In general, the vessels are intimate and relatively high-end, with pricing to match.

As a rule, Great Lakes sailings don't come cheap. For example, seven-night Viking sailings in the region start at $5,995 per person.

Things to do in the Great Lakes

As noted above, the Great Lakes offer a wide mix of attractions and experiences. During a Great Lakes cruise, you might find yourself climbing aboard the bus where Rosa Parks took a stand at the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit on one day and kayaking through the wild marshlands of Point Pelee, Ontario, the next.

Of the two lines operating in the Great Lakes, Viking has the greatest focus on outdoorsy stops such as Point Pelee (a tiny sandspit that juts into the northwestern corner of Lake Erie and is famous as a stopover for migratory birds). Some of Viking's sailings include a call at Alpena, Michigan — the gateway to a National Maritime Sanctuary, where passengers can kayak past shipwrecks in shallow waters. Another destination that Viking visits, Silver Islet, Ontario, brings the opportunity for a trail walk through Ontario's 94-square-mile Sleeping Giant Provincial Park — a rocky, forested park named for a long line of mesas that resemble a giant lying on its back.

The city-oriented stops that Viking and the other lines make, such as visits to Milwaukee or Chicago on Lake Michigan, give you time to explore the urban sensibility of the region. Brew-town Milwaukee offers the chance to explore the city's craft beer and brewing scene or to take a walking tour to the city's many outdoor sculptures. Chicago is famous for its world-leading architecture (which you can see on walking and boat tours), its Magnificent Mile lined with more stores than you've probably ever seen in one place and its world-class cultural institutions.

Then there are stops at quieter places such as Mackinac Island, where your sightseeing might include an excursion by horse-drawn carriage to historical sites. Of the three main lines operating in the Great Lakes, as noted above, Pearl Seas Cruises focuses the most on the region's small towns, with fewer stops at bigger cities.

One thing that all three of the main lines operating in the Great Lakes have in common is that they include tours during at least some stops and sometimes every stop in their base fares. Pearl Seas Cruises and Viking are particularly known for including lots of shore excursions in their base fares.

Included tours are part of what you're paying for when you pay the high prices noted above. So you can go off on your own in any of the places these ships visit. But you might just have a no-extra-charge outing including many of the highlights of each place already planned for your voyage.

Best Great Lakes cruise ports

The best Great Lakes cruise ports include the handful of relatively big cities in the region, such as Chicago, that are loaded with cultural sites, nightspots and restaurants, as well as charming small towns such as Holland, Michigan. Great Lakes cruises also bring days that are all about getting up close to wonders both natural and human-made — from towering Niagara Falls to the engineering marvel that is the Welland Canal.

Thunder Bay, Ontario

Known as "Canada's Gateway to the West" because it's the final navigational point on the Canadian side of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is one of Ontario's most vibrant cities and a center for art and culture. It's also a hub for outdoorsy pursuits including mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking and angling, as it's nestled within boreal forests.

Great architecture and cultural institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago — along with lots of nightlife, shopping and world-class dining — make Chicago the premier city destination in the Great Lakes region. Many Great Lakes cruises begin or end in Chicago, with some including an overnight in the city, allowing time to explore. Don't miss a stroll down the Magnificent Mile and a sightseeing boat ride on the Chicago River (a great way to get an overview of the city and see some of its architectural gems).

Wisconsin's biggest city is often surprisingly delightful to first-time visitors, home as it is to a Santiago Calatrava-designed art museum with a world-class collection, a Harley-Davidson Museum that our sister site Lonely Planet has dubbed "badass" plus stylish eating and shopping enclaves. Settled by Germans in the 1840s, "Brew City," as it's known, also is a mecca of sorts for beer lovers — and not just because it's home to the original Miller Brewing Company complex, which is open daily for tours. You'll also find lots of craft breweries that you can visit on your own or as part of a tour, and you can tour (and drink at) the original Pabst Brewery.

Holland, Michigan

As the name suggests, Holland is a little bit of The Netherlands transported to the Americas. Settled by Dutch immigrants in the 1800s, it's home to the annual Tulip Time Festival, which takes place every May, and offers up such Holland-themed attractions as Windmill Island Gardens, where you'll find a working Dutch windmill, canals and dikes. Holland's downtown is a charmer with cobblestone sidewalks and more than 100 specialty shops, breweries and restaurants.

Sault Saint Marie, Michigan

Located at the northeastern edge of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Sault Saint Marie is the site of the Soo Locks, a marvel of engineering that connects Lake Superior to Lake Huron. The locks themselves are the big attractions in Sault Saint Marie — head to the observation deck at Soo Locks Park to watch freighters passing by and learn more at the Soo Locks Visitor Center.

But there are other allures, including the Museum Ship Valley Camp. It's a retired Great Lakes freighter (named Valley Camp) that you can climb into and explore. In addition to touring the living quarters for its 29-person crew, you'll find a 20,000-square-foot maritime museum in its cargo hold with exhibits on the sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald and more.

Mackinac Island

The Jewel of the Great Lakes has been a summer getaway for Midwesterners since the Victorian era and it retains much of its Victorian-era charm. The iconic attraction on the island is the 135-year-old Grand Hotel , with its seemingly endless, rocker-lined front porch (the longest in the world). Afternoon tea in the hotel's parlor, or a game of croquet at its Tea Garden, are among Mackinac Island's allures. Tours in a horse-drawn carriage are another popular pastime; cars are banned on the island, leaving horse-drawn carriages as one of the main ways of getting around, along with bicycles. When visiting, don't miss Fort Mackinac, which dates to the 1700s.

Niagara Falls

Located on the short waterway between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, Niagara Falls is one of the world's most spectacular waterfall complexes (it's actually three waterfalls, not one) with a flow rate greater than any other waterfall in North America and a vertical drop of more than 160 feet. Visitors can take it in both from viewing areas on land and from a tour boat.

Note that Great Lakes cruise vessels don't travel directly on the 36-mile-long strait that connects Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, which is known as the Niagara River (lest they go plunging over the falls). Instead, they use the Welland Canal — another marvel of engineering and an attraction in its own right.

Motor City should probably be called Museum City, as it's home to a wonderful array of museums worth a visit, from The Detroit Museum of Art and the Motown Museum to the Charles H. Wright Museum of African-American History. Passengers on Great Lakes cruises will find that stops in Detroit often revolve around an included visit to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, a sprawling history museum complex that is home to the limousine that President Kennedy was in when he was assassinated, George Washington's camp bed, Buckminster Fuller's prototype Dymaxion house, the bus on which Rosa Parks was arrested and countless other rare artifacts.

When to book a Great Lakes cruise

The best time to book a Great Lakes cruise is right when a cruise line first opens bookings on that sailing, often more than a year in advance. You'll have your pick of itineraries and cabins and often the best fares.

Because the Great Lakes has such a short season with a limited number of ships, sailings in the region are often in high demand and people plan early. Newcomer Viking, notably, has told TPG it has seen brisker sales this year for its Great Lakes trips than sailings to Antarctica — one of the world's ultimate bucket list destinations.

If you wait to book, you're not entirely out of luck. Cruise lines often run sales in the fall or in the early months of the year (a period known in the cruise industry as "wave season" ). You can take advantage of discounted fares and other perks. Some of the most desirable cabins might be sold out; being flexible about your sail date or itinerary can help.

In general, waiting until the last minute is not the best idea, unless you live in a gateway city such as Chicago, Milwaukee or Toronto and don't need to book flights. While some less preferred sail dates or cabin categories may have availability a few months out, spurring cruise lines to drop rates, you might have trouble finding affordable airfare and pre- or post-cruise hotel accommodations that do not eat up your cruise savings.

What to bring on a Great Lakes cruise

When it comes to packing for a Great Lakes cruise, your mantra should always be: dress in layers. It can be chilly in the morning in the more northerly parts of the Great Lakes, particularly at the start of the Great Lakes cruising season, but then warm up fast.

If you're planning to do some outdoorsy pursuits, such as kayaking or hiking, be sure to bring appropriate activewear. And don't forget to pack a rain jacket, if not a complete rain gear outfit, including a wide-brimmed waterproof hat, rain pants and waterproof shoes or boots.

Also, and this is critical: Don't forget your passport. Many of the places you'll visit in the Great Lakes will be in the United States and do not require a passport. But every Great Lakes cruise includes at least a few — and sometimes many — stops in Canada, where a valid U.S. passport, passport card or NEXUS card is required to enter if you're a U.S. citizen.

Bottom line

There's a lot to see and do in the Great Lakes region, and it's hard to argue that there's a better way to see and do it than on a cruise. Cruise vessels departing from such cities as Chicago and Toronto can take you to all of the highlights of the region — from the breweries of Milwaukee to thundering Niagara Falls — in a single trip. That's something that you'll be hard-pressed to accomplish any other way.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

Great Lakes Road Trip: The Ultimate Itinerary

Ready for an adventure in Traverse City that will take your breath away? Look no further than the Great Lakes Road Trip! Picture this: five interconnected freshwater lakes, each more stunning than the last, forming a region of awe-inspiring beauty. From sandy beaches to rugged cliffs, this road trip offers a diverse range of landscapes just waiting to be explored. Don’t miss the chance to hike along the Mackinac Bridge and explore the beauty of Saginaw Bay.

But it’s not just about nature’s wonders; the Great Lakes region, including Saginaw Bay and Mackinaw City in Michigan, is also home to vibrant cities like Detroit bustling with life and culture. Along your journey, you’ll have the chance to discover charming towns and iconic landmarks in these areas that will leave you in awe.

The Great Lakes Road Trip awaits – are you ready?

Planning the Perfect Great Lakes Itinerary

Research and plan your route to maximize your time and experiences..

So, you’ve decided to embark on a great lakes road trip, starting in Duluth and ending in Traverse City. That’s fantastic! But before you hit the open road, it’s crucial to do some research and plan your itinerary. After all, you want to make the most of your time and create unforgettable experiences along the way. Don’t forget to mark Traverse City as a must-see map stop on your drive.

Start by familiarizing yourself with the various destinations around the Great Lakes region for your road trips. From bustling cities like Chicago and Toronto to charming small towns like Traverse City and Mackinac Island, there is an abundance of places waiting to be explored. Consider what interests you the most – whether it’s vibrant city life, outdoor adventures, or historical landmarks – and tailor your route accordingly. Don’t forget to include a map stop in Duluth and visit Sturgeon Bay along the way.

Once you have a general idea of where you want to go, use a map stop to dive deeper into each town. Look up popular attractions, local events, and hidden gems that might not be well-known but are worth a visit. Take note of any specific activities or sights that catch your eye so that you can include them in your itinerary. Make sure to plan your stops accordingly, considering the hour and minutes it will take to get from one destination to another.

To maximize your time on the road trip itself, consider factors such as the driving distances between locations and traffic conditions. While it’s tempting to cover as many miles as possible, remember to allow for enough minutes in each place to truly immerse yourself in its unique atmosphere without feeling rushed. Stay mindful of the map stop and make the most of your journey.

Consider visiting during summer for optimal weather and outdoor activities.

When planning a road trip in Duluth, timing is everything – especially when it comes to breakfast. The summer months (June through August) offer the best opportunity to enjoy pleasant temperatures and a wide range of recreational opportunities within minutes of Duluth. Stop by our map stop to find the best breakfast spots in town.

During this time of year in the US, you can soak up the sun on beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan or Lake Erie in Duluth. Enjoy water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding amidst stunning natural landscapes. Hiking trails come alive with vibrant colors, and national parks in Duluth offer breathtaking views. You can also indulge in fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water’s edge. Don’t forget to make a map stop for breakfast!

Apart from the weather, summer brings a vibrant energy to the Great Lakes region. Festivals and events in Duluth are in full swing, showcasing local culture, music, and cuisine. From food festivals celebrating fresh seafood to art fairs displaying unique creations, there is always something happening that will enhance your road trip experience. Make sure to stop by a map stop for breakfast before exploring all that Duluth has to offer.

Allocate enough time to explore each destination thoroughly.

One of the keys to a successful great lakes road trip is allowing yourself ample time at each destination on the map. While it may be tempting to cram as many stops as possible into your itinerary, rushing through places will only leave you feeling unsatisfied and exhausted. Make sure to plan for a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventures.

Instead, embrace a slower pace and allocate enough time to truly immerse yourself in the wonders of each location. Take leisurely walks along scenic waterfronts or explore charming downtown areas filled with boutique shops and cozy cafes. Engage with locals and learn about their stories and traditions – they often hold hidden insights that guidebooks might miss. Don’t forget to include a map stop at Lake Superior, one of the great lakes in the US.

Remember to stop and eat during your journey around Lake Superior. Leave room on your map for spontaneous detours and extra days in places that capture your heart. These unplanned moments often become cherished memories long after the road trip ends.

Take advantage of local resources for recommendations on attractions and accommodations.

While guidebooks and online research provide valuable information when planning a great lakes road trip, don’t underestimate the power of local knowledge. Once you arrive at your chosen destinations, tap into the expertise of locals who can offer insider tips on must-see attractions and hidden gems off the beaten path. Additionally, having a map handy will help you navigate and ensure you don’t miss any important stops along the way.

Strike up conversations with friendly residents at local cafes or seek recommendations from hotel staff who know their cities like the back of their hands. They can suggest lesser-known spots that showcase the true essence of each destination – from quaint family-owned restaurants to breathtaking viewpoints that aren’t listed in guidebooks. Don’t forget to consult a map for directions to the stops around Lake Superior.

Consider visiting eat visitor centers or stop tourism offices upon arrival. These resources are often filled with brochures, maps, and knowledgeable staff who can provide up-to-date information on events, attractions, and accommodations. They might even offer discounts or special deals that can enhance your road trip experience without breaking the bank.

Pack essentials such as comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera.

Now that you have your itinerary and map planned and are ready to stop at each destination, don’t forget to pack the essentials for a great lakes road trip. Here are a few must-haves to ensure you’re fully prepared for whatever adventures come your way.

• Comfortable Shoes: When you eat your way through the map, stopping at various locations, it’s important to have comfortable footwear. Opt for sturdy walking shoes or sneakers that will keep your feet happy throughout the journey.

Chicago: Beaches, Art, and Baseball

Chicago is a city that offers an incredible variety of experiences for visitors. From miles of sandy beaches along Lake Michigan’s shoreline to world-class art museums and thrilling baseball games, there are plenty of opportunities to eat, stop, and explore the city using a map.

Enjoy Miles of Sandy Beaches

Chicago may not be the first place that comes to mind to eat, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the city’s stunning coastline along Lake Michigan. With miles of sandy beaches, Chicago provides the perfect summer escape to stop and relax.

One of the most popular beach spots in Chicago is North Avenue Beach, a must-stop destination. Here, you can stop and soak up the sun while enjoying breathtaking views of the city skyline. The beach also offers various activities such as volleyball courts and bike rentals, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. So don’t miss the chance to stop by and enjoy all that North Avenue Beach has to offer.

If you’re looking to eat in a more laid-back atmosphere, head over to Oak Street Beach. This hidden gem is nestled between high-rise buildings and offers a tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Relax on the soft sand or stop to take a refreshing dip in Lake Michigan’s crystal-clear waters.

Immerse Yourself in World-Class Art

Art enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise when exploring Chicago’s renowned museums. The Art Institute of Chicago stands out as one of the finest art museums in the United States. Visitors can eat and stop at this cultural institution, which houses an extensive collection spanning thousands of years. It showcases masterpieces from around the globe.

As you eat and stop wander through its halls, you’ll come face-to-face with iconic works like Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.” Take your time to appreciate each brushstroke and immerse yourself in artistic brilliance.

For those looking to eat contemporary art experiences, visit The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA). Located just steps away from downtown Chicago, MCA hosts cutting-edge exhibitions that push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of art. From thought-provoking installations to experimental performances, this museum is a must-stop for modern art enthusiasts.

Catch a Baseball Game

Chicago is a city that breathes baseball. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking to stop for an authentic sports experience, catching a game at either Wrigley Field or Guaranteed Rate Field is an absolute must.

Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is a nostalgic and charming place to stop and eat. As you step into the stadium, you’ll be transported back in time to the golden era of baseball. The atmosphere is electric, with passionate fans singing “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” during the seventh-inning stretch.

On the South Side of Chicago, you’ll find Guaranteed Rate Field, where the Chicago White Sox play their home games. This modern ballpark offers state-of-the-art amenities and fantastic views from every seat. Join in on the cheers and chants as you witness America’s favorite pastime played at its finest.

Indulge in Iconic Chicago Cuisine

No visit to Chicago would be complete without savoring its iconic cuisine. Eating deep-dish pizza and hot dogs are culinary staples that have become synonymous with the city’s food culture.

Giordano’s and Lou Malnati’s are two legendary establishments that locals swear by. Sink your teeth into layers of gooey cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and buttery crust for a taste sensation like no other.

For hot dog lovers, Portillo’s is an institution not to be missed. Sink your teeth into their famous Chicago-style hot dog piled high with toppings like mustard, onions, relish, tomatoes, pickles, sport peppers, and celery salt – all served on a poppy seed bun. It’s a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Explore Millennium Park’s Famous Cloud Gate Sculpture

No trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to Millennium Park. At the heart of this urban oasis lies the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as “The Bean.” This iconic stainless-steel structure has become a symbol of the city and offers a unique photo opportunity.

As you walk around The Bean, marvel at its reflective surface that distorts and mirrors the surrounding skyline.

Indiana Dunes National Park: Natural Beauty and Recreation

Indiana Dunes National Park is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. From awe-inspiring sand dunes to lush forests, this national park in Indiana promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Indiana Dunes National Park’s sand dunes and forests.

Prepare to be mesmerized by the breathtaking landscapes that await you at Indiana Dunes National Park. Towering sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a picturesque backdrop against the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan. As you hike through these rolling dunes, you’ll find yourself surrounded by stunning vistas at every turn.

The park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, there’s a trail for everyone. These scenic paths offer panoramic views of Lake Michigan, allowing you to soak in the beauty of one of North America’s Great Lakes while being immersed in nature.

Hike scenic trails that offer panoramic views of Lake Michigan from towering dunes.

One highlight of your visit to Indiana Dunes National Park is undoubtedly the opportunity to hike along its magnificent trails. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure through diverse ecosystems, ranging from tranquil forests to sandy beaches.

For those seeking a challenge, the 3 Dune Challenge is a must-do. This demanding trail takes you up three towering sand dunes, rewarding your efforts with breathtaking vistas overlooking Lake Michigan. Feel the thrill as you conquer each ascent and revel in the sense of accomplishment when reaching the summit.

If you prefer a more leisurely stroll, opt for one of the shorter trails like Cowles Bog Trail or West Beach Trail. These paths wind through lush woodlands teeming with wildlife, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting along the way.

Engage in various recreational activities such as swimming, kayaking, or birdwatching.

Indiana Dunes National Park isn’t just about hiking; it also offers a plethora of recreational activities to keep you entertained. Cool off on a hot summer day by taking a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan. The park’s pristine beaches provide the perfect setting for swimming and sunbathing, allowing you to relax and unwind amidst nature’s beauty.

If you’re up for an adventure on the water, grab a kayak and paddle along the shoreline. Explore hidden coves, discover secluded beaches, and marvel at the unique rock formations that dot the coastline. Kayaking offers a different perspective of the park and allows you to get up close with its natural wonders.

For those with an interest in ornithology, Indiana Dunes National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. With over 350 species recorded within its boundaries, this area attracts bird enthusiasts from all over. Grab your binoculars and spot colorful migratory birds as they make their way through this important stopover site during their annual journeys.

Picnic amidst picturesque landscapes while enjoying the sounds of nature around you

Take advantage of Indiana Dunes National Park’s scenic picnic areas to enjoy a delightful meal surrounded by nature’s serenity. Spread out your blanket on lush green grass or find shade under towering trees as you indulge in delicious food with family and friends.

As you savor your meal amidst picturesque landscapes, listen carefully to the symphony of sounds around you. The chirping of birds, rustling leaves, and gentle waves crashing against the shore create a soothing ambiance that enhances your dining experience. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature while creating lasting memories.

Delve into the park’s rich biodiversity by spotting rare plants and wildlife species.

Indiana Dunes National Park is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal species. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for rare and unique flora that thrive in this ecosystem. From delicate wildflowers to towering trees, each plant contributes to the park’s vibrant tapestry of life.

Wildlife enthusiasts will also be delighted by the chance to encounter various animal species. Keep your camera ready as you may spot white-tailed deer gracefully roaming through the forests or catch a glimpse of a red fox darting across a meadow. The park is also known for its diverse bird population, making it a haven for avian enthusiasts.

Exploring Lake Michigan’s Shoreline: From Milwaukee to Traverse City

Wander through milwaukee’s historic third ward district.

Milwaukee, located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, is a vibrant city that offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. One of the must-visit areas in Milwaukee is the Historic Third Ward district. This neighborhood seamlessly blends old-world charm with trendy shops and restaurants, making it a perfect starting point for your Great Lakes road trip.

As you wander through the streets of the Historic Third Ward, you’ll be captivated by its unique architecture and rich history. The area was once an industrial hub but has since transformed into a lively arts and fashion district. Explore the numerous boutique shops that line the streets, offering everything from local designer clothing to handmade crafts.

When hunger strikes, indulge in the culinary delights offered by the district’s diverse array of restaurants. Whether you’re craving gourmet cuisine or looking for a casual bite to eat, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds here. Don’t forget to sample some local craft beer while you’re at it – after all, Milwaukee is known as the “Brew City” for a reason!

Visit Holland: A Charming Town with Dutch Heritage

Continuing north along Lake Michigan’s shoreline brings you to Holland, Michigan – a town renowned for its Dutch heritage and picturesque beauty. Every spring, Holland comes alive with vibrant colors during its annual Tulip Time Festival. Stroll through rows upon rows of blooming tulips and immerse yourself in this delightful celebration of Dutch culture.

Apart from its tulips, Holland offers much more to explore. Take a leisurely walk along Windmill Island Gardens and admire De Zwaan, an authentic Dutch windmill dating back to 1761. Step inside this iconic landmark to learn about its fascinating history and enjoy panoramic views from atop.

For those interested in history and art, visit Nelis’ Dutch Village, a living museum that recreates the Netherlands of the 1800s. Experience traditional Dutch architecture, watch wooden shoe carving demonstrations, and even try your hand at cheese making. It’s an immersive journey into Holland’s past that both adults and children will enjoy.

Discover the Stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

No Great Lakes road trip would be complete without a visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore near Traverse City. This natural wonder stretches along Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline and offers breathtaking views of towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

Embark on a hike through the dunes to fully appreciate their grandeur. As you ascend to the top of one of these majestic sand mountains, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch for miles. Don’t forget to bring your camera – this is a photographer’s paradise!

After exploring the dunes, cool off with a refreshing swim in Lake Michigan or simply relax on one of its sandy shores. The beaches here are some of the best in the region, providing ample opportunities for sunbathing, picnicking, or building sandcastles with your loved ones.

Explore Grand Rapids: A Haven for Craft Beer Enthusiasts

As you make your way back south along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, make sure to stop by Grand Rapids – a city known for its vibrant craft beer scene and thriving arts community. With over 80 breweries scattered throughout the city and its surroundings, Grand Rapids has rightfully earned its reputation as “Beer City USA.”

Take a brewery tour and sample an array of unique brews crafted by local artisans. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and everything in between, there’s something for every beer enthusiast here. Many breweries also offer delicious food pairings to enhance your tasting experience further.

Beyond beer, Grand Rapids boasts an impressive art scene. Visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where you can admire stunning outdoor sculptures set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. The city is also home to several art galleries and museums, showcasing a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums.

Admire Picturesque Lighthouses Along Lake Michigan’s Shoreline

As you drive along Lake Michigan’s shoreline during your great lakes road trip, keep an eye out for the picturesque lighthouses that dot the coast. These iconic structures not only serve as navigational aids for mariners but also add charm and character to the landscape.

Mackinac Island: A Step Back in Time on Lake Huron

Discover the victorian charm and horse-drawn carriages.

Welcome to Mackinac Island , a picturesque gem nestled in the sparkling waters of Lake Huron. This car-free island takes you on a delightful journey back in time with its enchanting Victorian charm and horse-drawn carriages. As soon as you step off the ferry from Mackinaw City, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a bygone era during your great lakes road trip.

Imagine strolling through streets lined with impeccably preserved 19th-century buildings, adorned with colorful flowers cascading from window boxes. The island’s captivating architecture will transport you to a simpler time when life moved at a more leisurely pace. Take your time to explore the quaint shops and boutiques that offer unique treasures and souvenirs.

Uncover History at Fort Mackinac

One of the highlights of visiting Mackinac Island is immersing yourself in its rich history. Make sure to visit historic Fort Mackinac, perched high on a bluff overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. This well-preserved fort played a strategic role in American history during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.

As you wander through the fort’s grounds, knowledgeable guides dressed in period costumes will regale you with fascinating tales of military life from centuries past. Explore the barracks, officer’s quarters, and artillery displays while gaining insights into this pivotal chapter of American history.

Embrace Nature’s Beauty on Scenic Trails and Coastline Walks

Mackinac Island offers an abundance of natural beauty waiting to be discovered. Rent a bicycle or take a leisurely stroll along one of the island’s many scenic trails that wind through lush forests and offer breathtaking views of Lake Huron. Feel the gentle breeze caress your face as you meander along tree-lined paths surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

For a more coastal experience, embark on a walk along the island’s shoreline. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters of Lake Huron as they lap against the sandy beaches. The rhythmic sound of waves crashing against the shore will soothe your soul as you immerse yourself in the island’s serene ambiance.

Indulge in Famous Fudge and Culinary Delights

No visit to Mackinac Island is complete without indulging in its world-renowned fudge. Treat yourself to a delectable assortment of flavors from one of the island’s many charming shops. Watch as skilled confectioners meticulously craft each batch, using time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations.

In addition to fudge, Mackinac Island offers a delightful array of culinary delights. From fresh seafood caught in nearby waters to locally sourced ingredients that enhance every dish, you’ll find an abundance of options to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you choose to dine in a cozy waterfront restaurant or savor a picnic on one of the island’s scenic overlooks, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Soak in Breathtaking Views from Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf

Prepare to be awestruck by Mackinac Island’s natural wonders—Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf. These iconic landmarks offer panoramic views that will leave you breathless. Head towards Arch Rock, where nature has sculpted an impressive limestone arch standing 146 feet above Lake Huron. Gaze out over the vast expanse of water below and marvel at nature’s artistry.

Another must-visit spot is Sugar Loaf, a towering rock formation rising dramatically from Lake Huron’s depths. As you stand atop this geological wonder, take a moment to soak in the awe-inspiring vistas stretching out before you—a perfect blend of sparkling blue waters merging with endless skies.

Mackinac Island beckons you to immerse yourself in its timeless allure. Whether you’re exploring the island’s historic sites, savoring its culinary delights, or simply basking in the beauty of Lake Huron, this enchanting destination promises an unforgettable journey back in time. So hop on a ferry, leave your worries behind, and let Mackinac Island cast its spell upon you.

Discovering the Upper Peninsula of Lake Superior: Cliff Shorelines and Wilderness

Marvel at pictured rocks national lakeshore ‘s dramatic cliffs along lake superior’s shoreline..

Imagine standing at the edge of a breathtaking cliff, gazing out at the vast expanse of Lake Superior. This is exactly what awaits you at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The towering sandstone cliffs that line the shoreline are an awe-inspiring sight to behold. These majestic formations have been sculpted by centuries of wind and waves, creating a natural masterpiece that will leave you speechless.

To fully appreciate the beauty of Pictured Rocks during your great lakes road trip, take a scenic boat tour along the coast. As you cruise through crystal-clear waters, you’ll be treated to up-close views of the vibrant sandstone formations. From Chapel Rock with its iconic tree growing atop it to Miner’s Castle with its impressive turrets, each cliff has its own unique charm. The colors are simply mesmerizing – from deep reds and oranges to striking blues and greens – as if nature itself has turned these rocks into an artist’s palette.

Immerse yourself in nature by hiking through pristine forests and cascading waterfalls.

The Upper Peninsula is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities to connect with nature. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the many trails that wind through pristine forests and alongside cascading waterfalls. One such gem is Tahquamenon Falls State Park , home to one of Michigan’s largest waterfalls. As you hike through this enchanting park, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and serenaded by the soothing sounds of rushing water.

The highlight of Tahquamenon Falls State Park is undoubtedly the Upper Falls, where thousands of gallons of water cascade over a 200-foot-wide precipice every second. The sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder will leave you in awe. For a more secluded experience, venture further into the park to discover the Lower Falls. Here, you can rent a rowboat and paddle along the river, immersing yourself in the peacefulness of the surroundings.

Visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park, home to one of Michigan’s largest waterfalls.

No great lakes road trip to the Upper Peninsula would be complete without a visit to Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Located in Paradise, Michigan, this natural wonder is sure to leave a lasting impression. As you approach the park, you’ll be greeted by dense forests teeming with wildlife. The air is crisp and fresh, invigorating your senses as you step out of your car.

Make your way to the main attraction – the magnificent Tahquamenon Falls. This awe-inspiring waterfall spans over 200 feet across and drops nearly 50 feet into the river below. The sheer power and beauty of this spectacle are truly captivating. Take a leisurely stroll along well-maintained trails that offer breathtaking views of both the upper and lower falls. If you’re feeling adventurous, hike down to the riverbank for an up-close encounter with nature’s raw power.

Experience true solitude while exploring remote areas like Isle Royale National Park .

For those seeking solitude and untouched wilderness, look no further than Isle Royale National Park . Located in Lake Superior off Michigan’s northwest coast, this remote island offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and immerse yourself in nature’s embrace. With no roads or vehicles on the island, getting there requires taking a ferry or seaplane from either Houghton or Copper Harbor.

Once on Isle Royale, prepare for an adventure unlike any other. Explore pristine forests filled with towering trees and vibrant wildflowers. Hike along rugged trails that lead to hidden coves and secluded beaches where you can dip your toes in Lake Superior’s crystal-clear waters. Keep an eye out for wildlife sightings – from moose and wolves to foxes and otters, the island is teeming with fascinating creatures.

Cleveland and Buffalo: Vibrant Cities on Lake Erie

Explore cleveland’s cultural scene.

Looking for a road trip that combines vibrant cities with stunning lake views? Look no further than the Great Lakes region, where you’ll find the perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Start your adventure in Cleveland, Ohio, a city known for its thriving cultural scene.

One must-visit attraction in Cleveland is the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Immerse yourself in the history of rock music as you explore exhibits dedicated to legendary artists and iconic moments. From Elvis Presley to The Beatles, this museum showcases the evolution of rock ‘n’ roll and its impact on popular culture.

If art is more your style, head over to the Cleveland Museum of Art. With an extensive collection spanning thousands of years, you can admire works from renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. Take your time strolling through the galleries and let the masterpieces inspire you.

Delve into Buffalo’s Architectural Heritage

Continuing your great lakes road trip along Lake Erie, make a stop in Buffalo, New York. This city is not only famous for its chicken wings but also boasts a rich architectural heritage. One architectural gem you shouldn’t miss is Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin D. Martin House.

Step back in time as you explore this Prairie-style masterpiece designed by one of America’s greatest architects. Marvel at the intricate details and innovative design elements that have made this house an icon in American architecture. Guided tours offer fascinating insights into Wright’s vision and his influence on modern design.

Savor Delicious Cuisine

No road trip is complete without indulging in some mouthwatering cuisine along the way. In Cleveland, make sure to visit West Side Market, a food lover’s paradise since 1912. Here you’ll find an incredible variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more. Grab a bite to eat from one of the many vendors and savor the flavors of Cleveland.

Buffalo, on the other hand, is synonymous with its famous chicken wings. Head to one of the city’s iconic chicken wing joints and experience the true taste of Buffalo. Whether you prefer them mild or blazing hot, these crispy wings are sure to satisfy your cravings. Pair them with a cold beverage and immerse yourself in the local sports culture.

Enjoy Lake Erie’s Waterfront

As you make your way along Lake Erie during your great lakes road trip, take some time to enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds you. In Cleveland, visit Edgewater Park for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Feel the breeze off the lake as you walk along sandy beaches and take in panoramic views of downtown Cleveland.

In Buffalo, don’t miss out on Buffalo Harbor State Park. This waterfront park offers a perfect blend of nature and urban charm. Take a relaxing walk along the marina or rent a kayak to explore Lake Erie from a different perspective. With picturesque views of downtown Buffalo, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and soak up the serene atmosphere.

Catch Live Performances

Both Cleveland and Buffalo have vibrant performing arts scenes that cater to all tastes. In Cleveland, head over to Playhouse Square, one of the largest theater districts in the country outside of New York City. From Broadway shows to ballet performances and concerts, there’s always something happening here.

Buffalo boasts its own historic theater district centered around Shea’s Performing Arts Center. Step inside this beautifully restored venue and be transported back in time with its stunning architecture and opulent interiors. Catch a live performance ranging from touring Broadway productions to classical music concerts.

The Great Lakes road trip offers an incredible mix of cultural experiences, culinary delights, and natural wonders. From exploring museums dedicated to rock ‘n’ roll history in Cleveland to immersing yourself in Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece in Buffalo, there’s something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create unforgettable memories along the shores of Lake Erie.

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Niagara Falls: Majestic Wonder between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario

Witness the awe-inspiring power of niagara falls from various viewpoints..

Niagara Falls is undoubtedly one of nature’s most magnificent creations. Standing at the edge of the falls, you can feel the raw power and beauty that this natural wonder possesses. From every angle, you are treated to a breathtaking spectacle that will leave you in awe. Whether you choose to view it from the American side, take a Great Lakes cruise by, or venture across to Canada, there are numerous vantage points that offer different perspectives on this majestic display.

On the American side, head to Prospect Point Observation Tower for an up-close and personal encounter with the falls. As you ascend to the top, prepare yourself for a jaw-dropping panorama of cascading water and mist-filled air. The observation deck provides an unparalleled view of both American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, allowing you to witness their thunderous descent firsthand.

For a unique perspective, take a stroll along Luna Island. This small piece of land sits between Bridal Veil Falls and Horseshoe Falls, offering an intimate encounter with these powerful forces of nature. Feel the mist on your face as you stand just yards away from where millions of gallons of water crash down each second.

If you cross over to Canada, don’t miss out on Queen Victoria Park. This beautifully landscaped park allows visitors to enjoy unobstructed views of Horseshoe Falls while surrounded by vibrant floral displays. Find a spot on one of the park benches or spread out a picnic blanket as you marvel at the grandeur before your eyes.

Take a thrilling boat ride on the Maid of the Mist to get up close to the falls.

To truly experience Niagara Falls in all its glory during your great lakes road trip, embark on an exhilarating adventure aboard the Maid of the Mist boat tour. Donning your iconic blue poncho, prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey into the heart of the falls. As the boat navigates the swirling waters, you’ll feel the mist on your face and hear the thunderous roar of the cascading water.

The Maid of the Mist takes you as close as possible to both American Falls and Horseshoe Falls, allowing you to witness their immense power from an entirely different perspective. You’ll be in awe as you witness millions of gallons of water crashing down before your eyes, creating a spectacle that words simply cannot do justice.

This iconic boat tour has been operating for over 150 years, providing visitors with an up-close encounter with Niagara Falls like no other. It’s a thrilling experience that will leave you with lifelong memories and a newfound appreciation for nature’s grandeur.

Explore Niagara Falls State Park and enjoy scenic hiking trails and picnic areas.

Niagara Falls State Park is a true gem nestled amidst the natural wonder of Niagara Falls. Spanning over 400 acres, this park offers visitors an abundance of recreational opportunities while showcasing stunning views of the falls. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on one of the park’s scenic trails to immerse yourself in its beauty.

For a leisurely stroll, choose the easy-grade trail along Three Sisters Islands. This picturesque pathway takes you through lush greenery and provides magnificent views of all three falls: American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Take your time to savor each step as you soak in nature’s splendor.

If you’re seeking more adventure, opt for the Great Gorge Railway Trail. This moderate-level hike winds along the Niagara River Gorge, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Marvel at towering cliffs, observe unique flora and fauna, and revel in nature’s tranquility away from bustling crowds.

After exploring the trails, find a cozy spot within Niagara Falls State Park for a delightful picnic surrounded by natural beauty. Spread out a blanket near Luna Island or choose one of the designated picnic areas scattered throughout the park. Indulge in a leisurely lunch while listening to the sounds of rushing water and feeling the gentle mist on your skin.

Experience the vibrant nightlife and entertainment options in Niagara Falls, Canada.

When night falls, Niagara Falls transforms into an enchanting wonderland filled with vibrant lights and pulsating energy. Head across the border to Canada and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere that awaits you.

Begin your evening by exploring Clifton Hill, a bustling street lined with restaurants, attractions, and entertainment venues. This vibrant strip is often referred to as “the street of fun” for good reason. From arcades and haunted houses to wax museums and mini-golf courses, there’s something for everyone here. Let your inner child run wild as you indulge in games, laughter, and endless excitement.

For those seeking a more refined experience during their great lakes road trip, Niagara Falls offers an array of wineries where you can savor exquisite wines produced from locally grown grapes. Take a guided tour through picturesque vineyards or opt for a wine tasting session to discover new flavors and expand your palate.

Road Tripping through Canada: Watertown, NY to Ontario

Cross the border into canada at thousand islands bridge near watertown, new york..

Ready for an exciting adventure? Hop in your car and get ready to cross the border into Canada during your Great Lakes road trip! Starting from Watertown, New York, you’ll make your way to the Thousand Islands Bridge. This picturesque crossing is not only a gateway to Canada but also offers breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and its countless islands.

As you drive across the bridge, take a moment to soak in the beauty surrounding you. The emerald waters below and lush greenery on both sides will leave you in awe. It’s like stepping into a postcard!

Drive along scenic routes like Ontario’s Great Lakes Waterfront Trail or Trans-Canada Highway.

Once you’ve crossed into Canada, it’s time to hit the road and explore all that this beautiful country has to offer. One option is to follow Ontario’s Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, which stretches over 3,000 kilometers along Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. This scenic route will take you through charming towns, stunning beaches, and vibrant cities.

If you’re up for a longer journey, consider driving on the Trans-Canada Highway. This iconic road spans across the entire country and offers diverse landscapes along the way. From rolling hills to majestic mountains, each province has its own unique beauty waiting to be discovered.

No matter which route you choose, be prepared for jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. You’ll witness sparkling blue waters, towering cliffs, and dense forests that make every mile worth it.

Visit charming Canadian towns like Kingston, Toronto or Niagara-on-the-Lake along your journey.

One of the highlights of any great lakes road trip through Canada is exploring charming Canadian towns along your route. Take a detour from your main drive and venture into places like Kingston, Toronto or Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Kingston, known as the “Limestone City,” is a historic gem with its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Stroll along its waterfront, visit Fort Henry to learn about Canada’s military past, or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this picturesque town.

Next up is Toronto, Canada’s largest city and a vibrant metropolis that offers something for everyone. From iconic landmarks like the CN Tower to world-class museums such as the Royal Ontario Museum, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this bustling city. Don’t forget to indulge in some delicious food from diverse cuisines while you’re here!

Another must-visit destination is Niagara-on-the-Lake, located near the famous Niagara Falls. This quaint town is known for its wineries, charming shops, and beautiful gardens. Take a leisurely stroll through its streets, sample local wines at vineyards, or catch a play at the renowned Shaw Festival Theatre.

Explore Toronto’s iconic landmarks such as CN Tower and Royal Ontario Museum.

When you find yourself in Toronto during your Great Lakes road trip, make sure to explore some of its most iconic landmarks. The first stop on your list should be the CN Tower – an architectural marvel that dominates Toronto’s skyline. Take an elevator ride up to one of its observation decks for panoramic views that will leave you breathless.

Afterward, head over to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) – Canada’s largest museum of art, culture, and natural history. With collections spanning millions of years across various disciplines, it offers a fascinating journey through time and different civilizations.

Whether you’re interested in ancient artifacts or modern art exhibitions, the ROM has something for everyone. It’s a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration waiting to be explored.

Immerse yourself in Canada’s rich history by visiting Fort Henry or Casa Loma.

During your Great Lakes road trip through Canada, take some time to delve into the country’s rich history. Two notable places that offer a glimpse into Canada’s past are Fort Henry and Casa Loma.

Located in Kingston, Fort Henry is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 19th century. Step back in time as you explore this well-preserved fortification, complete with military demonstrations and interactive exhibits. Learn about the lives of soldiers stationed here and gain insight into Canada’s military heritage.

In Toronto, you’ll find Casa Loma – a majestic castle that will transport you to another era. Built in the early 20th century, this architectural masterpiece boasts luxurious interiors, stunning gardens, and breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Green Bay and Bay City: Charming Towns on Lake Michigan and Lake Huron

Experience football fever in green bay at lambeau field, home of the green bay packers.

Are you ready to dive into the heart of football frenzy? Look no further than Green Bay, Wisconsin, where Lambeau Field stands tall as a shrine for die-hard fans of the Green Bay Packers. This historic stadium is more than just a sports venue; it’s an emblem of pride and tradition. As you step foot into Lambeau Field, you’ll feel the electric atmosphere that has been captivating fans for decades.

Imagine being surrounded by seas of green and gold as passionate Packers supporters cheer on their beloved team. The energy is contagious, making every game day a memorable experience. From the iconic Lambeau Leap to the thunderous roar of the crowd after a touchdown, attending a game here is like stepping into another world.

But don’t worry if you can’t catch a live game – there’s still plenty to do in Green Bay! Take advantage of its stunning waterfront along Green Bay itself. Whether you’re an angler looking for your next big catch or simply want to relax on a boat while enjoying the picturesque scenery, this area offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities.

Enjoy outdoor activities like fishing or boating on Green Bay’s waterfront

Green Bay’s waterfront provides not only breathtaking views but also thrilling adventures for nature enthusiasts. If fishing is your passion, grab your tackle box and head out onto the sparkling waters. With an abundance of fish species such as walleye, musky, and smallmouth bass, anglers are bound to have an exciting time reeling in their prized catches.

For those seeking a different kind of aquatic adventure, why not hop aboard a boat? Cruise along the bay while basking in the warm sun and feeling the refreshing breeze against your skin. Whether you’re captaining your own vessel or joining a guided tour, exploring Green Bay’s waterfront by boat is an experience like no other.

Discover maritime heritage at Bay City’s Saginaw Riverfront with its tall ships and museums

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich maritime heritage of Bay City, Michigan. Located on the banks of the Saginaw River, this charming town boasts a vibrant riverfront that showcases its seafaring history. As you stroll along the boardwalk, you’ll encounter majestic tall ships gracefully gliding through the water, their sails billowing in the wind.

To delve deeper into Bay City’s maritime past, visit one of its fascinating museums. The Bay County Historical Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s nautical legacy through exhibits featuring ship models, artifacts, and interactive displays. Meanwhile, the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum allows visitors to explore the USS Edson, a retired naval destroyer that served during the Vietnam War.

Explore unique shops and restaurants in downtown Green Bay or Old City Hall Historic District in Bay City

Both Green Bay and Bay City have something special to offer. In downtown Green Bay, you’ll find a delightful mix of boutique shops and local businesses waiting to be explored. From trendy clothing stores to quaint gift shops filled with one-of-a-kind treasures, there’s no shortage of unique finds here.

Meanwhile, in Bay City’s Old City Hall Historic District, history blends seamlessly with modern charm. This revitalized area is home to an array of specialty shops where you can discover handmade crafts, vintage goods, and artisanal products. After indulging in some retail therapy, satisfy your taste buds at one of the district’s cozy restaurants offering delectable dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Attend festivals celebrating local culture such as Green Bay’s Artstreet or Tall Ship Celebration in Bay City

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture of Green Bay and Bay City by attending their lively festivals during your Great Lakes road trip. Green Bay’s Artstreet festival is a celebration of creativity that transforms the downtown area into an open-air gallery. Stroll through the streets adorned with captivating artworks, listen to live music performances, and engage in interactive art activities.

In Bay City, the Tall Ship Celebration takes center stage, drawing visitors from near and far to marvel at majestic tall ships docked along the riverfront. This four-day event offers a unique opportunity to step aboard these magnificent vessels, interact with crew members, and learn about maritime history firsthand. The festivities also include live entertainment, food vendors serving delicious treats, and captivating fireworks displays.

Unforgettable Memories of the Great Lakes Road Trip

The Great Lakes Road Trip is an adventure like no other. From the stunning beaches and vibrant cities to the breathtaking natural beauty, this journey offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights along the way:

A well-planned itinerary is crucial for making the most of your Great Lakes Road Trip. By mapping out your route and identifying must-visit destinations, you can ensure that every moment counts.

The Windy City welcomes you with open arms. Spend your days lounging on beautiful beaches, exploring world-class art museums, and catching a baseball game at Wrigley Field. Chicago truly has something for everyone.

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Indiana Dunes National Park. With its towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, it’s a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and beach lovers alike.

Embark on a scenic drive along Lake Michigan’s shoreline from Milwaukee to Traverse City. Marvel at picturesque lighthouses, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in charming lakeside towns along the way.

Transport yourself back in time as you step foot on Mackinac Island. With its horse-drawn carriages and Victorian charm, this car-free island is a true gem on Lake Huron.

The rugged beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula awaits you as you explore Lake Superior’s shores on your Great Lakes road trip. From awe-inspiring cliff shorelines to untouched wilderness areas teeming with wildlife, this region is an adventurer’s dream.

Experience the vibrant energy of cities like Cleveland and Buffalo on the shores of Lake Erie. Dive into rich cultural scenes, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, and soak up the lively atmosphere these cities have to offer.

No Great Lakes Road Trip would be complete without a visit to Niagara Falls. Witness the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder as millions of gallons of water cascade down from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario.

Crossing the border into Canada opens up a whole new world of adventure. From charming towns like Watertown, NY to exploring Ontario’s stunning landscapes, you’ll discover hidden gems at every turn.

As you near the end of your journey, make sure to stop by Green Bay and Bay City. These charming towns on the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Remember that this road trip is all about creating memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

What is the best time to embark on a Great Lakes Road Trip?

The best time for a Great Lakes Road Trip is during the summer months when you can enjoy pleasant weather and take advantage of outdoor activities along the lakeshores.

How long does it typically take to complete the entire road trip?

The duration of the road trip can vary depending on your pace and how much time you want to spend in each destination. On average, it takes around two weeks to cover all major highlights.

Are there any camping options along the route?

Yes, there are numerous camping options available throughout the Great Lakes region. From state parks to private campgrounds, you’ll find a range of choices to suit your preferences.

Can I bring my pet on the road trip?

Many accommodations and attractions along the route are pet-friendly, but it’s always best to check in advance. Make sure to plan accordingly and bring all necessary supplies for your furry friend.

Are there any must-try local dishes during the road trip?

Absolutely! Each destination along the Great Lakes Road Trip offers unique culinary experiences. Don’t miss out on trying Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, Michigan’s famous pasties, and Buffalo wings in their birthplace.

Is it possible to rent a car for the road trip?

Renting a car is an excellent option for exploring the Great Lakes region. There are several car rental companies available at major airports and cities along the route.

What safety precautions should I take during the road trip?

It’s essential to practice safe driving habits, follow traffic rules, and be aware of weather conditions during your journey. Make sure to have emergency supplies like water, snacks, and a first aid kit readily available in case of unforeseen circumstances.

• 8 Delightful Towns to Visit in the Great Lakes

The Great Lakes , a region in North America consisting of five freshwater lakes, is home to many beautiful towns that may surprise travelers. With a host of fun commercial locales and interesting natural or historic landmarks that will appeal to all ages, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Each town has something unique to share, whether the lighthouse at Grand Marais or the wineries in Leland. Thus, these towns are some of the best vacation destinations to experience: Lake Superior , Lake Ontario , Lake Huron , Lake Erie , and Lake Michigan .

Grand Marais, Minnesota

Grand Marais is home to around 1,300 residents on Lake Superior's North Shore. It is well known for its delightful landmarks like the Grand Marais Lighthouse, a mainstay for anyone seeking shoreline scenery, and 18th-century lakeshore architecture across the harbor. Nearby, Artists' Point offers a natural escape for tourists with its downtown sunrises and is a famous stop for winter seasons and boating pleasures.

Picnic lovers and hiking enthusiasts can enjoy the Pincushion Mountain Trail System for its mountain solitude and looping trails full of harbor and lighthouse scenery. One can find more delights at Sivertson Gallery, a great stop for memorable local artistry with excellent small rooms full of household antiques and crafts. Similarly, Lake Superior Trading Post offers cute home goods and pottery trinkets that are perfect for souvenirs. After roaming around, those who need a bite can dine at Hungry Hippie Tacos, a satisfying restaurant featuring delightful fish tacos and brisket meals.

Leland, Michigan

A northeastern town along Lake Michigan, Leland is a delightful option for travelers with 400 residents. Most head straight to Historic Fishtown, a lovely fishing village with iconic waterfalls full of jumping salmon and downtown craft and shop locales. Further out, Van's Beach offers sugary sands and local beach delights for travelers wanting Leland River sights or stunning walks near Fishtown. Similarly, South Manitou Island may also be worth the itinerary for calming dunes and pebble beach footholds, with lots of white cedars that have been around for over 500 years.

Those who love wineries can revel at Verterra Winery, an easygoing and delightful winery that hosts the most pleasant locals and award-winning ciders in town. Along with the drinks, anyone craving a good meal may love The Cove for its gourmet seafood cuisine and fishing cabin waterfront ambiance.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island lies along Lake Huron and has around 600 inhabitants. It is a great trip idea for anyone seeking local thrills and cultural delights. Mackinac Island State Park creates a meaningful itinerary with its natural limestone bluffs, sparkling water vistas, and mystical Native American landscapes that would entice anyone to stick around. The Arch Rock is another delightful limestone landmark worth touring, with its unique native Nipissing foundations and shoreline glaciation that make it stand out from the rest.

Nature lovers would love to visit The Butterfly House, a commercial landmark stop full of tropical gardens and hundreds of exotic butterfly species. Meanwhile, history lovers will find lots of education and knowledge at Fort Holmes, an island fortress at the highest point of town with 18th-century military history related to the War of 1812 . Art admirers can check out the Richard & Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, where large exhibits full of cultural photography and Victorian -era garments are always on display. Those who want to experience it all at once can opt for the Mackinac Island Carriage Tours, which offers a splendid horse-drawn carriage tour of the entire island.

Arcadia, Michigan

Located along the Lake Michigan shoreline, Arcadia has much to offer for a small town with only 300 locals. The natural areas shine, and Arcadia Overlook is a featured stop with its delightful lookout climbs and beautiful Lake Michigan sunsets. Nearby, Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve is quite a marvel due to its southern coastal marshes and wetland bird habitats. For a more active experience, one can visit Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club, which boasts golfing enjoyment on a 245-acre windswept lakefront property that makes any tourist feel like a special guest.

Back in town, the Arcadia Area Historical Museum provides local memorabilia and German immigration history as a historical stop for travelers needing a taste of European influence and local marina scenery. For comfort dining, Ketch22 Kafe Food Trailer offers friendly service and the best hamburgers in town. Newcomers needing fancy service can check out The Dining Room, a luxury seating experience with high-class buffets and desserts just as good as the view of the Arcadia Bluffs right outside.

Two Harbors, Minnesota

Two Harbors is a beautiful Lake Superior shoreline town with 3,600 residents. It is a must-see for Agate Bay, a gigantic harbor area where historical iron ore tankers and the nearby Agate Bay Beach are easy finds for waterfront leisure and delights. At Two Harbors Lighthouse Museum, travelers can check out some of the oldest ship artifacts and red brick architecture that may appeal to lighthouse and marine history enthusiasts. Those seeking even more lighthouse delights can tour the nearby Split Rock Lighthouse, where freighters from the past were once guided through stormy waters for half a century.

Outdoor activities are also abundant, and skiiers may find plenty to see at Erkki Harju Ski Trailan essentialey stop for snowy activities and many scenic birch trails. Lakeview National Golf Course is a delightful golf course with enormous beauty and expansive landscapes that allow one to view the North Shore across a vast green field. Before the day ends, tourists should head to Callie's Sweets within Burlington Station to enjoy North Shore fudge treats, gourmet popcorn, and homemade caramel wonders.

Sandusky, Ohio

Sandusky is a delightful coastal town on the Lake Erie shoreline with 24,500 residents. The Merry-Go-Round Museum is a historical and cultural highlight with its carved animal displays and the most amusing carousel for all ages. The Maritime Museum of Sandusky is a historical alternative for anyone seeking piracy and fishing history, as well as fun boat-building workshops. At Follett House Museum, Greek Revivalism, and 19th-century artifacts make it easy to fall in love with this town.

After the historic landmarks, enter the present day at Cedar Point, a 364-acre amusement park with adrenaline-filled roller coasters and amazing lunch buffets that immerse visitors. Lagoon Deer Park is the perfect nature spot for tourists who want to pet farm animals originally from countries all around the globe and enjoy shady fishing spots. For those seeking unique haunted houses and mini-golf sessions in one locale, Ghostly Manor Thrill Center has plenty of newfound delights.

Cobourg, Ontario

A laidback town on Lake Ontario's shoreline, Cobourg is home to 20,500 locals who love historical and natural sights. Cobourg Beach is everyone's best stop in town for an idyllic boardwalk and snack bar that keeps tourists coming back for more. The Cobourg East Pierhead Lighthouse is also an option for scenic marina photography and a pyramidal view of a coastline splendor. At the Cobourg Conservation Area, it is easy to discover more than 29 acres of woodlands and open sports activities with delightful strolling areas nearby.

Back in the town’s street, art enthusiasts adore the Art Gallery of Northumberland, which showcases Canadian modern art and cultural academic presentations. Fans of farmer markets may enjoy Burnham Family Farm Market for the best grocery goods and the happiest locals around.

Alpena, Michigan

On the western coastline of Lake Huron sits Alpena, a small town of 10,000 inhabitants. The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center offers maritime history and shipwreck galleries, making it a worthwhile tourism destination. The Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan is another notable stop, with its delightful space planetarium and cultural state artifacts that have been around for over a century. There is even the historical Thunder Bay Theatre, an entertainment delight for anyone craving evening performances and family-friendly comedy shows.

The Mich-E-Ke-Wis Park is a must-see for Lake Huron shoreline beauty and cozy picnic resting spots, a true delight for casual tourists needing some fresh air. For quiet neighborhood sightseeing and friendly playground conversations, one can also walk around McRae Park.

All of these delightful towns in the Great Lakes are worthy of any travel itinerary. With so many fun and exciting locales and landmarks to witness in person, tourists may find everything they need to have a good time. No matter which town on this list appeals to travelers around the five major lakes of the region, there is always something new and refreshing to look forward to when considering one's next travel plans.

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• Destinations
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Great Lakes Road Trip Itinerary: Travel Guide To Exploring The Region

Experience the splendor of each of the five Great Lakes (Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario) with this ten-stop ~1,300-mile road trip. The Great Lakes, massive freshwater lakes that almost appear to resemble the ocean based on their sheer size, are certain to amaze. This road trip starts in Chicago, Illinois, takes you north up Wisconsin and into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, continues around the peninsula, and then down Michigan, along the northern coastline of Ohio, northeasterly to Niagara Falls, and ends in Toronto.

IN THIS GREAT LAKES ROAD TRIP GUIDE:

• Travel Tips
• Stop 1: Chicago
• Stop 2: Milwaukee
• Stop 3: Green Bay
• Stop 4: Munising / Lake Superior
• Stop 5: Mackinac Island / Lake Huron
• Stop 6: Bay City / Lake Huron
• Stop 7: Detroit
• Stop 8: Sandusky / Lake Erie

Stop 9: Niagara Falls

• Stop 10: Toronto / Lake Ontario
• …and more

Travel Tips and Practicalities

Fly into the Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to start this road trip and fly home via the Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) (assuming you’re ending the trip in Toronto). Finding flights should be easy as both are large airports. If you’re flying home via a USA airport, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) and Niagara Falls International Airport (IAG) are two options. You can  view current flight deals here  and additional hotel options here for any of the destinations we mention below.

Renting a car to navigate this journey will be the most efficient (unless you’re a local or driving long distance), but be prepared for a probable one-way fee. If the fee for dropping off in another country is excessive, consider returning the car in New York and then find other modes of transportation to Toronto and Niagara Falls.

Stop 1: Chicago, Illinois – Lake Michigan

Chicago, set on the banks of Lake Michigan, is an excellent starting point for this road trip. Since this trip is centered on savoring in the Great Lakes, make time to at least walk along the Navy Pier that stretches out over Lake Michigan. Maybe even take a cruise out onto Lake Michigan, and try at least a few of Winetraveler’s selection of must-visit wine bars in Chicago.

If you give yourself more time in this energetic city, soak in the city’s legendary architecture by taking a cruise down the Chicago River and/or strolling down Chicago Riverwalk. Tickets for the cruise can be purchased here . Stroll around Millenium Park, and make it to the iconic modern art sculpture, the Cloud Gate (better known as “The Bean”). Don’t go to Chicago without trying at least one deep-dish pizza from favorites such as Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, and/or Pizzeria Uno.

Soar high up above the city by riding the elevators to the observation floors on the 103 rd floor of the Willis Tower f/k/a Sears Tower (Skydeck Chicago) and the 94 th floor of 360 Chicago (still colloquially referred to as the John Hancock Center).

From Skydeck Chicago, glass cube ledges extend over 4 feet from the edge of the building. It may be a little intimidating to step onto the glass floor from over 100 floors high, but the bird’s-eye view is unique and quite an experience.

The 360 Chicago offers spectacular views of Lake Michigan along with skyline city views. From 360 Chicago, engage in the tilting experience whereby you step onto a glass-enclosed balcony with a moveable platform that tilts downward over the edge of the building for a brief moment. Alternatively or additionally, grab a pricey cocktail at the Signature Lounge on the 96 th floor. While the drinks are on the pricer side, the admission is free and the views are unforgettable (planning to reopen for service on April 9, 2021).

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile is a great hotel for families located in the heart of many of Chicago’s finest attractions. It’s only about ~0.7 miles west of the Navy Pier. The Allegro Royal Sonesta , with an old-style boutique feel, is also a lovely stay within walking distance to many sites.

If you’re hungry for a bratwurst and/or are looking for a lively atmosphere to watch a sports game, stop in at Brat Stop in Kenosha on your way to Milwaukee. Brat Stop has been around since 1961 and is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

While in Kenosha, satisfy your craving to try Wisconsin cheeses with a stop at Tim and Tom’s Cheese Shop . The store displays many refrigerators full of a variety of Wisconsin cheeses, along with sausage, cheesy popcorns, condiments, and more. If you have ever wanted a foam cheese hat or other fun items, you may be in luck here.

Drive ~90 minutes to Milwaukee. 

Stop 2: Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Lake Michigan

Milwaukee is a beautiful city situated along Lake Michigan. Stroll along the lake and around the expansive parks with open fields. Immerse yourself in museums, such as Discovery World (plans to re-open on March 27, 2021), the Harley-Davidson Museum, and the Charles Allis Art Museum (still appears to be closed as of the time of this writing, but hopefully will re-open by the time of your trip). The Milwaukee County War Memorial serves as a memorial to honor Wisconsin’s men and women who served in the U.S. armed forces. Posters along the walls contain pictures of fallen soldiers with notes paper-clipped from loved ones.

Drive ~1 hour 45 minutes to Green Bay.

Stop 3: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay has many options for the whole family, from Lambeau Field, Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame, the National Railroad Museum, botanical gardens, a wildlife sanctuary, an amusement park, a zoo, and much more. Try some wines at the nearby Ledgestone Vineyards & Winery (in-person visits by reservation only until at least Spring 2021).

Winetraveler Tip: Door County is only ~45 minutes from Green Bay. Explore Door County with Winetraveler’s: How to Spend a Few Days in Door County Wisconsin .

For those traveling with kids, the Tundra Lodge Resort Waterpark & Conference Center  has an indoor waterpark and arcade. There’s an on-site restaurant and the lobby features large wooden timbers and a 45-foot stone fireplace. The Lambeau Field is visible from the hotel and is only a 6-minute drive from downtown Green Bay.

Lake Michigan will be visible during a decent portion of the drive. You will pass into Michigan, and through the Escanaba River State Forest and the Hiawatha National Forest. The state of Michigan touches four of the Great Lakes: Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie.

Drive ~3.5 hours to Munising.

Stop 4: Munising, Upper Peninsula of Michigan – Lake Superior

To experience Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on the shores of Lake Superior, getting onto the water is a must. The rocky cliffs stretch for 15 miles along the shoreline. Take a cruise along the incredible rocky shore to admire the brilliantly colored cliffs, sea caves, and pristine beaches. The most popular cruise is ~2.5-hours which takes you ~32 miles roundtrip. Book your cruise here . The size of Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, with a surface area of 31,700 square miles, amazes many travelers. To put its size in perspective, it’s approximately the size of Austria or South Carolina.

The options for outdoor enthusiasts (seasonally dependent in some instances) include hiking, fishing, and hunting (with licenses), kayaking, swimming, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice climbing. The National Park Service’s website lists numerous hiking trails of varying lengths.

The Holiday Inn Express Munising – Lakeview , located up on a hill on the shorelines of Lake Superior, offers balconies featuring stunning Lake Superior views. Before retiring to bed, relax on the balcony with a glass of wine and listen to the waves crash against the shore while the light of the moon shines down into the lake. The Duck Pond is a cute little restaurant, just over 2 miles from the hotel, with delicious food and many local beer options.

The Mackinac Bridge connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan. It is ~5 miles long and is one of the world’s largest suspension bridges. Lake Michigan is to the west of the bridge, and Lake Huron is to the east.

Drive ~2 hours down the Upper Peninsula, and continue southward down the iconic and spectacular Mackinac Bridge and to Mackinaw City. From Mackinaw City, take a ~16-minute ferry to Mackinac Island.

Stop 5: Mackinac Island, Michigan – Lake Huron

Be swept away by the charm and history felt at every step on the small Mackinac Island. The fact that no cars are permitted enhances the charm. Modes of transportation include horse-drawn carriage rides, bicycles, and walking. Walk around the island, admire the old-style homes, old churches, tour the Fort Mackinac, shop, dine, and don’t forget to try the fudge. While in Mackinaw City, taste local wines at Mackinac Island Winery .

Stay overnight in Mackinaw City and/or Mackinac Island. If you stay in Mackinaw City, the Best Western Plus Dockside Waterfront Inn is located along the shore of Lake Huron, lakefront balconies are available, and the hotel is within walking distance to the ferry to Mackinac Island. For those staying overnight on Mackinac Island, the historic and elegant Grand Hotel  is an icon.

Drive ~2.5 hours to Bay City. If time management isn’t pressing, drive along US 23 Heritage Route along the Lake Huron shoreline (which would extend the trip by about 100 minutes).

Stop 6: Bay City, Michigan – Lake Huron

Stroll in and out of boutique shops, pretty churches, many parks, over the river via the scenic Saginaw Pier, and walk along Saginaw River via the Riverwalk Trail in the charming Bay City. Ship enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys ships should visit the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship and/or reserve a sailing experience onto Lake Huron aboard the schooners Appledore IV or Appledore V.

The Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Bay City – Riverfront , on the Saginaw River, is conveniently located in the historic downtown area and across the river from the Veterans Memorial Park. The romantic Historic Webster House Bed and Breakfast  offers classic elegance.

Drive ~1 hour 40 minutes to Detroit.

Stop 7: Detroit, Michigan

Make time to explore Detroit, as it is about the halfway point between Bay City and Sandusky. The famous Detroit Zoo, a zoo that extensively uses exhibits without bars, is a great stop. The zoo is home to giraffes (that you can feed!), grizzly bears, polar bears, seals, gorillas, anteaters, rhinos, penguins, wolves, kangaroos, and so much more. The Arctic Ring of Life has a 70-ft. tunnel that passes under a pool for polar bears. Lucky travelers will see a polar bear swim overhead. Seeing a seal swimming is much more likely.

Drive ~2 hours to Sandusky.

Stop 8: Sandusky, Ohio – Lake Erie

Sandusky, situated on the shores of Lake Erie, is best known for the Cedar Point Amusement Park. Cedar Point’s Hotel Breakers  is a luxury hotel located along a soft sandy beach at the shores of Lake Erie and right next to the Cedar Point Amusement Park (plans to re-open in May 2021) and Cedar Point Shores water park. Walk along the beach, the boardwalk, go to the amusement park, sunbathe at the beach, and go swimming. Watch the sunset below the rollercoasters.

Drive ~4.5 hours to Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. If time permits, stop overnight in Cleveland and/or many other places along the Erie shore en route to Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls, the collection of three breathtaking waterfalls that straddle the international border between the Canadian province of Ontario and the US state of New York is spectacular. It’s the world’s fifth-largest waterfall by flow rate. There are many lovely hotels boasting fall-view rooms. The Niagara Falls Marriott Fallsview Hotel and Spa  is a great option. The views of the falls from the rooms are incredible. At night, changing colors of lights project the falling water. Snuggle up with your special someone in your room with a glass of wine and listen to the roaring sound of the waterfalls while watching the night show.

Winetraveler Tip : For those who don’t mind the cold, consider planning your visit during the winter. Many things will be closed for the season, including the Maid of the Mist, but you might get a great deal on a falls-view room.

Easily turn your Niagara stay into a wine tasting vacation with Winetraveler’s Niagara Escarpment (New York) & Buffalo Itinerary: Top Wineries, Restaurants & Hotels .

Drive ~90 minutes to Toronto.

Stop 10: Toronto, Ontario – Lake Ontario

Toronto, a lively city, with much to explore is right along the shores of Lake Ontario. Ride the elevator up to the 114th floor of the CN Tower for floor-to-ceiling views of Lake Ontario, as well as the city. The 113th floor has a small segment of windows on the floor brave tourists can stand, sit, and walk across.

Ripley’s Aquarium is right next door and a great family place. The Casa Loma , a gorgeous gothic-style castle, is not to be missed. Scope out great food and drinking spots while in the city, and of course, Winetravelers should try Ice Wine .  

The Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto  is essentially right across the street from the CN Tower. The Rogers Centre, CN Tower, the railroad museum, Lake Ontario, and Ripley’s Aquarium are all visible from the hotel. The CN Tower is lit up at night with lights that change colors.

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20 Great Lakes Getaways

Midwest Living's experienced editors create best-in-class travel, lifestyle, food, home and garden content you won't find anywhere else. We're loudly, proudly Midwestern, and we're passionate about helping our audience explore and create through award-winning storytelling.

From Minnesota to Ohio, towns along the Midwest's Great Lakes capture the summer vacation spirit. Here are some of our favorite Great Lakes getaways, with tips on exploring each one.

Grand Haven, Michigan

Stroll on a boardwalk dotted with ice cream shops and gaze at an iconic red lighthouse in this quintessential beach town. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• The 48-acre recreation area at Grand Haven State Park has a popular beach plus views of the Grand Haven pier and lighthouse.
• Colorful jets of water dance to music by the likes of Sousa and Led Zeppelin in a 25-minute show on summer nights at Grand Haven Musical Fountain.
• The modern Harbor House Inn overlooks downtown. Homemade treats star at the buffet breakfast and afternoon tea; at night, look for the inn's signature caramel candy.
• Odd Side Ales brews specialty and often-quirky beers (think raspberry wheat, peanut butter stout and bubble gum ale). Enjoy samples in a lounge stocked with board games.
• Three restaurants in one—casual, midrange and fine-dining—make the Kirby House a popular stop.

Saugatuck, Michigan

This Lake Michigan shore town boasts more than 40 art galleries and outstanding beaches. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Long sandy beaches and dunes more than 200 feet tall draw nature enthusiasts, bird-watchers and hikers to Saugatuck Dunes State Park.
• Take thrilling rides up and down the steep dunes bordering Lake Michigan with Saugatuck Dune Rides.
• Oval Beach has been recognized as one of the world's best beaches for its wide, sandy shore and clear water, but be sure to check out other area beaches as well.
• The dining room at Bowdie's Chophouse seats just 25, ensuring an intimate experience at the steakhouse in Saugatuck.
• Saugatuck's Belvedere Inn features 10 guest rooms in a restored 1913 mansion; the window seat in the third-floor Windsor Room invites curling up with a book after a long day at the beach.

Two Harbors, Minnesota

This small town about 27 miles northeast of Duluth provides a base for outdoor exploration along the North Shore. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Grand Superior Lodge & Lake Homes offers lots of family activities, such as ATV rides and kayak tours. Chose from rooms, cabins or lakefront homes.
• Superior Hiking Trail heads all the way north to the Canadian border; stop in the Two Harbors store and office for trail information and recommendations.
• Everyone will tell you to stop for pie at landmark Betty's Pies. Everyone is right.
• Local specialties star at the Vanilla Bean Cafe, where you might have Norwegian crepes with blueberries and raspberries for breakfast, wild rice fish chowder for lunch or pan-fried lake trout for dinner.
• Highlights of Gooseberry Falls State Park (14 miles northeast of Two Harbors) include an outstanding visitors center, waterfalls (pictured) and easy trails. It's one of eight fabulous state parks along the North Shore.

Munising, Michigan

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore steals the show, but this Upper Peninsula town on Lake Superior delivers on other adventures, too. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• On Munising Bay Shipwreck Tours, look up to see a lighthouse or down through glass viewing wells to see shipwrecks.
• Sandstone cliffs streaked by minerals, dunes, beaches, waterfalls and forested shoreline stretch for more than 40 miles in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (pictured) between Munising and Grand Marais.
• Kayak tours with outfitters like Paddling Michigan put things in perspective, with guides leading paddlers under overhangs and past waterfalls.
• A lumber baron's 1896 home has morphed into lodge-like Roam Inn in Munising. Some of the 18 guest rooms offer Lake Superior views.
• Our pasty from Muldoon's Pasties came fresh from the oven with a flaky crust, tender beef and nicely textured veggies. Enjoy your traditional Michigan treat on the porch, on picnic tables on the lawn or to go.

Door County, Wisconsin

Roughly 75 miles long and 10 miles across, the Door Peninsula offers more than 300 miles of shoreline to explore, along with charming small towns such as Ephraim, Fish Creek, Egg Harbor and Sister Bay. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Enjoy Door County islands and waters on a Shoreline Boat Cruise .
• A loyal theater community and enthusiastic summer audiences have made Peninsula Players Theatre an institution for more than 70 years.
• Destinations like Pelletier's (pictured) and White Gull Inn host fish boils, a traditional Door County experience: part dinner, part theater, all delicious.
• The historic Eagle Harbor Inn offers both spacious whirlpool suites in cottages as well as nine bedrooms in a traditional B&B.
• Hiking, biking, boating, swimming, fishing, camping, golf, a nature center and the historic Eagle Bluff lighthouse are among the highlights of Peninsula State Park.

Chesterton, Indiana

This small Lake Michigan town offers easy access to the Indiana Dunes, plus tempting lodging and dining options. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Indiana Dunes State Park (pictured) and the surrounding Indiana Dunes National Park draw visitors with spectacular sand beaches, plus interesting nature trails along the dunes, prairies, woodlands and wetlands.
• Small-town goodness is a main ingredient in all of Red Cup Cafe & Deli's homemade baked items, sandwiches and soups.
• Chesterton's European Market attracts up to 150 vendors offering fresh produce, plants, artisanal breads and more each Saturday from May through October.
• Near the lake, you'll find the amenities of a vacation rental with the flexibility of a hotel at the Dunes Walk Inn.
• Creative burger varieties and delicious desserts make tiny Octave Grill worth multiple visits.

Petoskey, Michigan

Set on a hill above Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey is a postcard-pretty town full of historic cottages and high-end shopping. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• The Little Traverse Wheelway bike trail (pictured) follows the Lake Michigan shore from Charlevoix 26 miles north to Harbor Springs.
• Shop for classic fruit treats at American Spoon.
• Victorian charm at the sprawling Stafford's Bay View Inn draws couples and girlfriends for memorable stays along the shore.
• Housed in a 120-year-old church, Crooked Tree Arts Center has been home to northwest Michigan's cultural development for almost half a century, offering art exhibits, classes, and dance and music performances.
• In Bay Harbor's marina, choose among 60-plus beer varieties in the fun, faux-nautical saloon Knot Just a Bar.

As the gateway to Minnesota's North Shore vacationland, Duluth lures visitors who come for outdoor adventure, the glamour of 1900s-era lumber-boom mansions and breathtaking views of Lake Superior. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Duluth's 135-foot-tall Aerial Lift Bridge (pictured) rises more than 20 times each day for sailboats and skyscraper-length ships traveling between Lake Superior and Duluth Harbor.
• Check out the freshwater critters (gigantic sturgeon, otters, trout) at the two-story Great Lakes Aquarium.
• Historical elegance melds with modern-day luxuries at the A.G. Thomson House Historic Bed and Breakfast , a 1909 Dutch Colonial.
• At Vikre Distillery , Lake Superior water goes into craft products like aquavit, a Scandinavian liquor spiced with cardamom and caraway.
• The beautiful Park Point Beach lies on a sandy swath of land separating Lake Superior from the Duluth harbor. Watch the ore boats come and go or brave the lake's temps and frolic in the water.

St. Joseph, Michigan

This Lake Michigan town is revitalizing many of its historic buildings. Within an easy walk of the beach, downtown St. Joe is a popular spot to while away a summer afternoon. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Catch a concert, learn to draw, or view art at the turn-of-the-20th-century Box Factory for the Arts.
• Head to Schu's for great burgers and potato soup enjoyed with a side of amazing views of Lake Michigan.
• The restored indoor carousel (pictured) at Silver Beach Center brings the charm of a classic amusement park ride to a new generation.
• Caffe Tosi prides itself on good coffee and local produce; we loved the fresh bread.
• Guests at The Boulevard Inn & Bistro enjoy a French-influenced bistro with a spectacular wine list. Some guest suites have lake views.

South Haven, Michigan

Shops and restaurants abound in the historic downtown area, while a paved trail with signs recounting the village's history follows the waterfront to the Michigan Maritime Museum, home of an 1810 replica sloop. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Buy a box of fresh blueberries or pick your own at DeGrandchamp Farms, one of Michigan's largest blueberry farms (pictured).
• Flower gardens surround Yelton Manor B&B, across the street from the beach and within a 10-minute walk to downtown shops and restaurants.
• A few blocks from Lake Michigan, the rehabbed 1920s Victoria Resort Bed and Breakfast features spacious guest rooms, many with whirlpool tubs and fireplaces. Adults only.
• Indulge in sundaes, shakes, malts and waffle bowls at South Haven's throwback Sherman's Ice Cream.
• Sail across the waters of Lake Michigan on Friends Good Will , a replica 1810 square topsail sloop. The ship travels from the Michigan Maritime Museum.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

A short ferry ride transports visitors to famously Victorian and car-free Mackinac Island. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Fort Mackinac and Mackinac Island State Park are part of Mackinac State Historic Parks , a collection of museums and parks in the Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island region.
• Family-owned Mackinac Island Carriage Tours , a century-old company, provides horse-drawn buggies for a leisurely tour of the island.
• Enjoy a waterfront setting, gourmet dining and elegantly appointed lodging at Hotel Iroquois.
• A comfortably casual restaurant, Millie's on Main serves well-prepared, locally sourced cuisine in a bistro setting.
• Stay at-or at least visit-the Grand Hotel (pictured), a glorious Victorian-Era landmark, with its purportedly world's-longest 660-foot front porch overlooking the straits.

Lake Erie shore, Ohio

Sandy beaches, coastal wetlands and a wealth of attractions draw visitors to Ohio's Lake Erie towns and islands. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Cedar Point Amusement Park/Resort (pictured) in Sandusky has a mix of modern thrill rides and old carnival classics.
• Attractions at Kelleys Island include the state park (for the rental yurts and fabulous beach), fishing spots and Victorian B&Bs. By ferry, 20 minutes from Sandusky or Marblehead.
• The bird-watching enclave of Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, 25 miles east of Toledo, has walking trails and observation towers.
• At Put-in-Bay Winery, sample island wines and relax in the wine garden or on the front porch with a view of Put-in-Bay harbor.
• Rent a kayak and explore on your own, or sign up for a tour with Kayak the Bay Ltd. in Put-in-Bay.

Holland, Michigan

This shore town reflects its Dutch heritage in restaurants and attractions. In the spring, Holland hosts one of the nation's largest flower festivals, Tulip Time. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• At Windmill Island Gardens, a 250-year-old working windmill towers above a garden-filled 36-acre island.
• Holland's favorite night spot, New Holland Brewing Company, serves award-winning beers and creatively topped pizzas.
• Eight miles west of Holland, Holland State Park has an expansive beach, great lighthouse views and access to Mount Pisgah's towering sand dune.
• Visitors stop at DeBoer's Dutch Brothers Bakery to pick up fresh breads and buttery kraklingen cookies or to nosh on pigs-in-a-blanket and pea soup.
• CityFlatsHotel, one of the world's LEED-certified hotels, sets a sleek tone, with ecofriendly decor, walk-in showers and tall windows.

Grand Marais, Minnesota

This onetime fishing village between the North Woods and Lake Superior draws both outdoorsy types and a large community of working artists. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Learn basket making, canoe building, knitting and much more at the wonderfully wholesome North House Folk School (pictured). Classes offered year-round.
• Angry Trout Cafe, a little fish restaurant with a big reputation throughout Minnesota, serves fresh, flavorful Lake Superior fish grilled, fried or in chowder.
• Stay in sleek lakeside condos with fabulous Lake Superior views at East Bay Suites.
• Explore the region's Gunflint Trail —a 55-mile-long road running from Grand Marais to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
• Loon Lake Lodge, one of the Gunflint Trail's best-kept dining secrets, serves up classic resort charm and hearty fare in a small dining room.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Lake Superior adventure awaits visitors to this town on the Bayfield Peninsula. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• Explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, a 21-island archipelago in Lake Superior known for its rocky hiking trails, lighthouses and sea caves.
• Snuggle under duvets in all-white rooms with whirlpools and windows facing Lake Superior at the Bayfield Inn.
• Drive to any of more than dozen orchards for fresh fruit, baked goods and locally made products.
• Take the 25-minute ferry ride to Madeline Island, the only Apostle Island not part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Grab a snack in the small town and then head to Big Bay State Park, where trails run along the edge of Lake Superior.
• Enjoy concerts and more at Big Top Chautauqua, a 900-seat canvas tent near the lakeshore.

Charlevoix, Michigan

Families love Charlevoix, an easygoing beach town with a triple lakefront (Lake Michigan, Round Lake and Lake Charlevoix). Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• The surprisingly quiet Fisherman's Island State Park encompasses a swath of Lake Michigan beach outside Charlevoix and is ideal for camping or picnics.
• With curved roofs, deep eaves and cottagey stone walls, Mushroom Houses by native son Earl Young echo the Lake Michigan landscape and look like homes for fairy-tale creatures. Walking tours and self-guided driving tours available.
• Celeste Murdick's Fudge has been creating fudge on Charlevoix's Bridge Street since 1953. Try the classic chocolate.
• Designed by local architect Young, the fieldstone Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites overlooks Lake Michigan in the heart of Charlevoix.
• Relax at East Park's picnic tables, then take a short walk to watch yachts cruise beneath a drawbridge. Check out nearby galleries, boutiques and waterfront bistros.

New Buffalo, Michigan

A standout beach, boutique hotel, and easy access to inland fruit farms and wineries distinguish this Lake Michigan town. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• The waterfront Marina Grand Resort encourages indulgence; enjoy 24-hour Ben and Jerry's ice cream delivery, free beach towels and beachside lounge chairs.
• The lighthouse and grassy dunes at New Buffalo City Beach create a scenic backdrop that makes this stretch of sand a cut above the rest.
• The legendary ice cream shop Oink's Dutch Treat (pictured) is the signature stop when you need a cool retreat from the beach.
• Visitors to Lemon Creek Winery and Fruit Farm (22 miles northeast) can sample wines or enjoy the you-pick apples, berries and peaches.
• Cruise through towns with beautiful beaches, quaint shops and historic attractions along Red Arrow Highway.

Traverse City, Michigan

Visitors will love the bustling, foodie-fueled restaurant scene, as well as sparkling waters and relaxing beaches. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• You'll find public beaches all along the shore, but Clinch Park, a 1,500-foot beach and marina, is just a couple of blocks from downtown.
• Celebrate local ingredients with from-scratch, seasonal dishes at Trattoria Stella (pictured).
• We love the combined luxurious B&B and top-notch winery and vineyard at Chateau Chantal, on the Old Mission Peninsula north of Traverse City.
• Grand Traverse Pie Company serves some of the area's best home-style fruit pies. 5 Among the most popular of the region's many farm markets, Gallagher's Farm Market and Bakery serves up an authentic country experience along with fresh cherries, baked goods and produce.

Alpena, Michigan

One of northeast Michigan's bigger towns, Alpena borders Lake Huron and offers the top-notch Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center as well as a variety of other activities focused on the water. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• A huge menu of healthy, flavorful sandwiches, wraps and salads makes Fresh Palate one of Alpena's best places to eat.
• Explore the rich (and often tragic) history of the Great Lakes' shipping industry at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center (pictured), part of Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
• Put on your explorer's cap and cross a bridge to Island Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, with trails, fishing docks and a surprising amount of wildlife, all in the middle of the Thunder Bay River.
• Hop aboard a glass-bottom boat and let a guide with Alpena Shipwreck Tours take you for a tour of 19th- and early 20-century shipwrecks visible in the crystal-clear Thunder Bay waters.
• At Cabin Creek Coffee, the joe is smooth and rich, but so are the other choices: lattes, chais and specialty drinks. Enjoy one with berry-studded scones.

Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio

Vintage boardwalk fun draws families to the summer resort town of Geneva-on-the-Lake, while the surrounding wine country offers upscale restaurants and fine wines to sample. Five fun experiences to add to your list:

• The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake, a resort near Geneva State Park, has contemporary country-inn appeal. A delightful 2-mile paved path links the lodge to the state park beach.
• Take family vacation to new heights with Lake Erie Canopy Tours & Zipline .
• Patrons at Ferrante Winery and Ristorante sample hearty Italian dishes and wonderful wines made on-site, about 9 miles south of Geneva-on-the-Lake.
• Try to visit South River Vineyard at sunset, when the views are spectacular. About 10 miles south of Geneva-on-the-Lake, this winery is housed in a classic, white-steepled church, where the sun streams into the tasting room through stained-glass windows.
• The Lakehouse Inn Resort , one of the area's only wineries on the lake, features a glassed-in tasting room with great views of Lake Erie, as well as cottages, a B&B and restaurant.

• North America
• Discovering The Great Lakes Which...

Discovering The Great Lakes: Which One Should You Visit?

The Great Lakes – Superior, Michigan, Huron, Ontario and Erie – are the largest group of freshwater lakes on the planet, holding over 20 percent of the Earth’s fresh water along the northern borders of the US and Canada . The lakes encompass 95,160 square miles, formed thousands of years ago after the last Ice Age left behind large bodies of meltwater and glacial landforms. Sometimes called the ‘inland seas,’ the Great Lakes are known for their ocean-like characteristics – strong winds and currents, rolling waves, and distant horizons – and are home to remarkable national parks, wildlife preserves, pristine waters, beautiful beaches, and countless outdoorsy activities.

If you like the great outdoors: lake superior.

The largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior offers 7,340 square miles of pristine natural beauty. Its ideal juxtaposition on the northeast corner of Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin provide lake goers with access to many national forests – including Superior National Forest, Ottawa National Forest, Hiawatha National Forest, and Sault Ste. Marie State Forest Area – with several just a short drive away. The surrounding awe-inspiring landscape makes for the perfect camping trip: expect forested woods, waterfalls, scenic hiking trails, fishing, and vast wilderness. Isle Royale National Park offers kayaking and diving (alongside 450 other islands to explore) and is a wildflower paradise filled with blooming buds, while the sea caves at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is the ultimate kayaker’s dream. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore should not be missed, with its steep, multicolored cliffs and massive rock arches towering over clear and peaceful waters.

Lake Superior, USA

If you’re an adrenaline junkie: Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is an adventure sports haven. From shipwreck diving, fishing, and boating to wind and lake surfing, kiteboarding, parasailing, flyboarding, and kayaking, this lake has no shortage of things to do. And if you catch yourself here in the colder months, thrill-seekers can test their skills at ice luging, ice climbing, ice diving, snow kiting, or ice sailing. There are over 30 state and local parks located on the shores of the lake, and on its many islands as well as many beautiful beaches. Empire Beach, St. Joseph, and Grand Haven State Park Beach boast cool, crystal clear waters, and Silver Lake Sand Dunes are a perfect place to catch some rays after golfing, hiking, boating, or four-wheeling. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, one of the lake’s biggest draws, boasts 65 miles of shoreline and sandy dunes rising 400 feet above the lake, a must-see for first-timers. And should you need a night out on the town, Chicago isn’t far away.

Lake Michigan, USA

If you want to relax: Lake Huron

Booking a week-long stay at the Grand Hotel , made famous in the 1980 film Somewhere in Time, is the ultimate peaceful getaway. Located on the pedestrian-only Mackinac Island, the Grand Hotel offers golfing, swimming, spa services, and horseback riding. But if this isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry – Lake Huron has plenty of beaches to catch some R&R, with the longest shore length of any other Great Lake. Harrisville is claimed to have some of the best beaches in Michigan , while St. Ignace makes for a perfect picnic stop with panoramic views of the architectural marvel, the Mackinac Bridge. Plus, with over 30,000 islands to explore, there’s no question that you’ll find some real estate to park it and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Lake Huron, MI, USA

If you’re a history buff: Lake Ontario

As an outlet to the Pacific Ocean through the St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario has played a key part in American history for centuries. Originally inhabited by Natives, including the Huron and Iroquois tribes, the lake – discovered by Europeans in the early 1600s – was established as a primary hub for trading. Many towns blossomed on its shores as people settled close to the water, and several of these communities are still there today. Rochester is filled with historic neighborhoods and buildings – such as Corn Hill, one of the nation’s best preserved Victorian neighborhoods, and the Susan B. Anthony House – while Oswego provides curious travelers with a detailed history of the 15th-century village at many of its history museums. Cape Vincent is always worth the stop, founded by French explorers and missionaries in the 17th century, before departing to the world-famous Thousand Islands.

Lake Ontario, USA

If you want a little bit of everything: Lake Erie

Lake Erie may be the smallest, but it is mighty. Along the lake’s 100-mile shore, find historic resort towns, lighthouses, and Victorian homes alongside many beautiful beaches. Adventure enthusiasts can revel in the many recreational activities – from biking, fishing, and golfing to canoeing, camping, and horseback riding – while lovers of the outdoors can get their fair share of natural beauty at the many islands and parks, including Presque Isla State Park, Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, and Maumee Bay State Park. Learn about the rich waterfront heritage at the Erie Maritime Museum, or catch a theater performance at the Warner Theater. There’s even wine tasting plus a whole host of breweries . Should you need some downtime, visitors can take advantage of the abundant wildlife by bird-watching, or take in the scenery with a drive down the Great Lakes Seaway Trail. On Kelleys Island , former glaciers have carved long grooves in bedrock, a sight that should not be missed.

Lake Erie, USA

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Which Great Lake is the Best to Visit?

A guide to visiting north america’s great lakes.

North America’s Great Lakes are one of nature’s most majestic wonders and a worthy addition to any travel bucket list. Encompassing more than a fifth of the world’s freshwater supply combined, these five lakes offer impressive landscapes to admire along with countless recreational activities to discover. And with a total of 9,402 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of Great Lakes vacation spots to choose from. 

For the discerning traveler seeking some of the most unique places to stay paired with exceptional experiences, Select Registry has your guide on how to best visit these spectacular nature-filled destinations.   

Experience Lake Michigan

From the urban delights of the Windy City to the tranquil shores of Door County, Wisconsin, an escape to Lake Michigan offers travelers a little bit of everything. For the urban adventurers, Chicago’s gorgeous skyline and bustling lakefront parks and beaches beckon. However, that’s just a fraction of the experiences you’ll find dotted along Lake Michigan’s shores.  

Vacation in Door County, Wisconsin

For a storybook Midwest getaway, vacation in Door County, Wisconsin . Located on a peninsula between Lake Michigan and Green Bay, this Great Lakes vacation spot is known for its delicious fish boils, picturesque lighthouses, and scenic outdoor recreation—including more than 50 public beaches where you can swim, kayak, or even dive to nearby shipwreck sites. 

Travel Tip: Visit during the summertime for peak cherry picking season mid July through mid August at local orchards such as Door County Wildwood Market or Lautenbach's Orchard Country . 

Where to Stay on Lake Michigan

White Gull Inn

For over a century, White Gull Inn has been welcoming guests in the bayside village of Fish Creek, Wisconsin. Featuring 17 elegantly appointed and beautifully renovated rooms and cottages, guests become immersed in the inn’s historic past. A can’t-miss activity, for guests, residents, and visitors alike is White Gull Inn’s traditional outdoor fish boil , serving fresh Lake Michigan whitefish. Started in 1959, this is one of Door County’s oldest fish boils and a beloved community staple. 

Hillside Waterfront Hotel

Escape to lakefront luxury at the historic Hillside Waterfront Hotel in Ephraim, Wisconsin. With waterfront views and private balconies from every room and cottage, relaxation is guaranteed. Guests can easily enjoy all Door County has to offer, including lake access from nearby Peninsula State Park.  

Blacksmith Inn on the Shore

Serenely located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Blacksmith Inn on the Shore in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin invites guests to relax and unwind in its waterfront accommodations, featuring thoughtful amenities including fireplaces, whirlpools, and private balconies. As a member of the Door County Land Trust, guests can expect personalized recommendations on where to hike and enjoy the natural landscapes.

Blacksmith Inn

Experience Lake Huron

With the longest shoreline out of all the Great Lakes, Lake Huron and the 30,000 islands throughout offer travelers a chance to immerse themselves in natural beauty ranging from forests and wetlands to sand dunes and rocky coasts. Bordered by Michigan and Ontario, Lake Huron is the ideal choice for serene retreats surrounded by nature. 

Vacation in Oscoda, Michigan

Located in northern Michigan on the state’s “Sunrise Side,” Oscoda is one of the best places to vacation by Lake Huron. Enjoy a plethora of water activities from the beaches of Lake Huron to the 23-mile AuSable National Scenic River that flows nearby. The accessible pier at Oscoda Beach Park is the perfect spot to bask in scenic views, sunrise strolls, and lake fishing. 

Travel Tip: Don’t skip out on the area’s equally exciting land-based activities. Oscoda offers access to more than 35,000 acres of national forest! Begin your adventure at the Lumberman’s Monument to learn about the state’s logging past. 

Where to Stay on Lake Huron

Huron House Luxury Bed & Breakfast

Nestled on the shores of Lake Huron, Huron House Luxury Bed & Breakfast provides guests with an unforgettable, adults-only getaway. Here, there is no shortage of stunning waterfront views from the cozy fire pits to private hot tubs. For a one-of-a-kind craft lodging experience, make sure to reserve a seasonal beachside igloo where you and your loved one can enjoy a romantic evening under the stars. 

Huron House

Experience Lake Erie

Lake Erie is rich in biodiversity and also the shallowest of the Great Lakes, which makes it a top choice for fishing, boating, and countless other water sports amongst warm waters. When considering places to vacation near Lake Erie, one stands out among the rest for its exciting metropolitan scene. 

Vacation in Cleveland, Ohio

Blend city adventure with relaxing lake days by choosing Cleveland, Ohio as your Lake Erie destination. With lakefront parks and beautiful beaches, relaxation comes easy. Spend a day or two at Euclid Beach Park , which offers nature trails, fishing charters, picnic areas, water sports, and much more across more than 650 feet of sandy shores. When it’s time to explore the city, cultural attractions abound, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Cleveland Museum of Art.

Travel Tip: Fuel up for adventure at the historic West Side Market , where you can sample the best of Cleveland’s culinary scene at more than 100 vendors. 

Where to Stay on Lake Erie

J Palen House

A hidden retreat found in Cleveland’s food and arts district, J Palen House features charming rooms with modern amenities such as spa baths, fireplaces, and private patios. Easily explore nearby attractions including the West Side Market, along with countless options for shopping, dining, and nightlife just minutes away.  

Experience Lake Ontario

Despite being the smallest of the Great Lakes, Lake Ontario offers travelers some of the grandest natural attractions to explore—whether you want to stay in Toronto’s rich cultural scene or in one of the quaint lakeside communities. Attracting more than the outdoor enthusiast, travelers will discover lush vineyards, eclectic downtowns, and of course, the magnificent Niagara Falls. 

Vacation in St. Catharines, Ontario

Cross the border into Canada and discover one of the best cities to experience the splendor of Lake Ontario. Neighboring Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines flourishes with a historic downtown and convenient ways to enjoy its picturesque location, including local hiking trails and parks. Running through the region’s most populous city is the towering and breathtaking Niagara Escarpment that will set the scene for a truly memorable Great Lakes vacation. 

Travel Tip: Ontario is home to an award-winning wine scene, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking a food and wine vacation! Schedule tastings and tours, or plan your visit during the Niagara Grape and Wine Festival in September.

Where to Stay on Lake Ontario

Springbank House

Immerse yourself in the heart of Ontario’s historic district at the Springbank House in St. Catharines. This boutique bed and breakfast is ideally located within walking distance to the vibrant St. Paul Street and only a 20-minute drive to Niagara Falls. Explore the diverse beauty of the area, with personalized recommendations, and find comfort in one of Springbank House’s three modern suites.

Experience Lake Superior

As its name suggests, Lake Superior is the largest of the Great Lakes and is teeming with hidden gems and unique places to experience nature’s finest. Its numerous islands attract the adventurous willing to navigate across blue waters. Explore the Apostle Islands’ sea caves and rock formations or get off the grid at Isle Royale National Park , where you can backpack through wilderness, scuba dive near shipwrecks, or enjoy guided tours on the water. Surrounded by charming cities and lakefront towns, Lake Superior offers a respite to slow down and embrace the beautiful landscapes. 

Where to Stay on Lake Superior

Craft lodging properties.

While there are no Select Registry members located around Lake Superior, discover authentic experiences and local perspectives by searching for craft lodging accommodations. Head to Grand Portage, Minnesota or Copper Harbor, Michigan for the most convenient access to Isle Royale. And if you’re looking for more variety in your Great Lakes vacation, larger cities like Duluth, Minnesota offer an array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

So, which of the Great Lakes is the best to visit? With each lake offering its own unique blend of experiences, from outdoor adventures to cultural escapades, only you can decide. Start planning your Great Lakes vacation to find out. 

Best Places to Stay in Baileys Harbor

Blacksmith Inn On the Shore

Best places to stay in cleveland.

Best Places to Stay in Ephraim

Best Places to Stay in Fish Creek

Best Places to Stay in Oscoda

Best Places to Stay in St. Catharines

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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.

7 Best Midwest Amtrak Routes With Scenic Summer Views

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.

8 Beautiful Lakes Around the World to Plan a Trip to Right Now

Waterside beauty goes beyond the beach..

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Lake Atitlán is one of the many jaw-dropping lakes around the world.

Photo by Lucy Brown-loca4motion/Shutterstock.com

Though beaches get plenty of fame as the summer getaway trip (and there are plenty of beautiful ones ), lakes shine in their variety, ranging from turquoise gems to ones with views of volcanoes and others so salty that they make people float. Plus, they offer a special sense of stillness, and some can even be enjoyed in the winter.

Craving a yacht ride in Italy, or fancy a swim in one of Oregon’s ancient volcanoes? There are more than 100 million lakes to explore across the globe. Here are eight legendary ones to plan a trip around.

1. Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Can something be too good? Brave New World author Aldous Huxley thought so, writing about Guatemala’s Lake Atitlán in Beyond the Mexique Bay : “Lake Como, it seems to me, touches on the limit of permissibly picturesque, but Atitlán is Como with additional embellishments of several immense volcanoes. It really is too much of a good thing.” The immense volcanoes in question—Atitlán, Tolimán, and San Pedro—can be seen with the naked eye and dramatically stand in the background over the lake’s horizon.

At about 1,050 feet deep, the lake is the deepest in Central America. Part of enjoying Atitlán—besides the usual lakeside activities—is exploring the dozen or so towns nearby, each with its own atmosphere. San Marcos, on the lake’s northwestern side, has a reputation for drawing the likes of yogis, while venturing south takestravelers to backpacker hot spot San Pedro La Laguna.

Where to stay: Casa Palopó

• Book now: Casa Palopó

Relais & Châteaux property Casa Palopó was originally a private home before converting into a boutique hotel in 2000. The 15-room property features indigenous Guatemalan artwork on its walls, as well as private terraces to take in the views from the lake’s east side.

The Great Lakes were recognized as one of Afar’s best places to travel in 2023.

Photo by ehrlif/Shutterstock

2. The Great Lakes, United States and Canada

Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—North America’s five Great Lakes create the planet’s largest freshwater system and even landed a coveted spot in Afar’s Where to Go list in 2023 . Travelers have long admired the Great Lakes’ beauty from the shores of beaches like Lake Michigan’s South Haven, but cruises have become an up-and-coming way to experience them. An estimated 20,000 individual passengers are forecasted to come to the region in 2024 (which is more than double the visits compared to a decade ago.)

Don’t just consider the lakes for a summer vacation. Afar contributor and Michigan native Elaine Glusac raves about the offseason : “Winter brings ephemeral ice caves and adaptations such as iceboats, or sailboats on blades.”

Where to stay: Viking’s Great Lakes Cruises

• Book now: Viking’s Great Lakes Cruises

Cruise company Viking offers the opportunity to take an overnight lake cruise on the Great Lakes, offering 348-passenger expedition vessels Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris to explore the region. Sailings all start at seven nights, but travelers can see all five lakes on its 14-night cruise . If you want to stay on land, consider the Grand Hotel in Lake Huron’s Mackinac Island; it’s one of the best historic hotels in the country .

In-the-know beach lovers seek Secret Cove on the Nevada side of Lake Tahoe, where the turquoise water could stand in for the Caribbean.

Photo by Shutterstock

3. Lake Tahoe, United States

Lake Tahoe, on the California and Nevada border, is well-known for its slew of wintertime activities, as it has the highest concentration of ski resorts in North America . Skiers flock to the area in the snow season for beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails , while the snow-capped Sierra Nevada can be admired from a gondola ride. Adventure abounds in the summer as well. Kayaking, relaxing on a sailboat, fishing, and cruising on a paddleboat are just a few ways to enjoy Lake Tahoe in the warmer months .

Where to stay: Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

• Book now: Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe

Featuring a 17,000-square-foot slope-side spa and a stone fireplace in each room, the Ritz-Carlton in Lake Tahoe is one of the best luxury hotels in California . Its ski-in, ski-out access makes it a great base for outdoor adventure, while a temperature-controlled pool makes deckside relaxation a year-round activity.

Gravedona ed Uniti is but one of the Lake Como region’s many unforgettable villages.

Valentina Selva/Italy Tourism

4. Lake Como, Italy

Italy’s Lake Como is famous for its elegance and luxury, gaining affinity from celebrities that include George Clooney and Madonna, who have bought villas on its shores. Located by the Italian Alps in the Northern Italian region of Lombardy, Lake Como stuns with scenery from its shores (or while on a yacht). The only island on the lake, Comacina Island, gives a view of the red-roofed houses on the mainland and can be reached by ferry. Climb to the top of the UNESCO-recognized Sacro Monte di Ossuccio, a sacred mountain on Como’s western shore, to get views of the lakes and the neighboring mountains.

Where to stay: Grand Hotel Tremezzo

• Book now: Grand Hotel Tremezzo

The 84-room Grand Hotel Tremezzo has more than 100 years of history, preserving its Italian neoclassical design from the Belle Époque era. If you decide to dine at Grand Hotel Tremezzo’s La Terrazza Gualtiero Marchesi, hotel CEO Valentina De Santis recommends the saffron risotto , which is topped with a gold leaf.

Crater Lake’s famous body of water is deeper than any other lake in the United States.

Photo by Bill45/Shutterstock

5. Crater Lake, United States

When Mount Mazama erupted around 7,7000 years ago in what today is Oregon, it left a depression that eventually accumulated enough melted snow and rainwater to form a lake. Measuring 1,943 feet deep, Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and the star of Oregon’s only national park. Looking for the perfect view? Drive around the 33-mile Rim Drive , which circles the lake and includes 30 outlooks, or embark on the more than 90 miles of trails that wind around the lake.

Only one trail, the Cleetwood Cove trail , gets you access to a swimming point when it’s open from mid-June to late October. Be sure to brace yourself before a dip in its clear waters, as the lake surface only warms up to a chilly 55 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.

Where to stay: Crater Lake Lodge

• Book now: Crater Lake Lodge

To snag a spot at one of 71 rooms at Crater Lake Lodge, you need to reserve a spot well in advance. Afar writer Amy Bizzarri describes this property as an ideal place to spend a lakeside beach getaway in the summertime: “Cool summer evenings here call for cozying up by the massive stone fireplace in the lodge’s dining room, where locally sourced cuisine showcases the flavors of southern Oregon.”

6. Moraine Lake, Canada

Banff became Canada’s first national park in 1885 , protecting boreal forests and glacier-fed lakes over about 2,500 square miles in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains. One of its lakes is the 120-acre Moraine Lake in Banff’s southwestern portion. Travelers can hike to the lake or visit by shuttle from Lake Louise and get majestic views of Moraine against the Valley of the Ten Peaks. From mid-June to mid-September, Moraine Lake Lodge rents canoes so you can paddle through the lake’s turquoise waters.

There are several hiking trails for exploring Moraine’s different views. Climb the Rockpile Trail for incredible panoramas, or take the three-quarter-mile Lakeshore Trail for an easy trek on its south side. If you want to beat the crowds of Banff when you visit Lake Moraine, try getting an early start. Alternatively, consider some of Banff’s lesser-visited turquoise lakes, like Lake Agnes.

Where to stay: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

• Book now: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Conveniently located in the town of Banff, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is known as the “Castle in the Rockies.” The more than 130-year-old property features a Châteauesque-design and is nestled into the mountains. When you’re not venturing into the lakes of the national park, stay and choose one of the hotel’s adventures, which range from 27 holes of golf to its 40,000-square-foot spa . Near Moraine, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise sits on the shore of another alpine lake that’s equally as beautiful.

The dark color of the Loch Ness is attributed to the soil washed into the lake.

Botond Horvath / Shutterstock

7. Loch Ness, Scotland

Whether or not you’re searching for the serpentine creature (lovingly called Nessie) that lives in Scotland’s Loch Ness, this lake is a must-stop place on a trip to the Scottish Highlands. Swimming isn’t recommended due to its frigid temperatures (water temperatures remain at around 40 degrees Fahrenheit year-round), but companies Cruise Loch Ness and Beastie Boats allow you to explore on a boat. The Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition even has sonar-equipped cruises (if you are actually searching for the creature). Drive up the A82 highway along the lake’s western shore to get to Castle Urquhart, which dates back to the 13th century, for a fantastic view of the dark abyss.

Where to stay: Loch Ness Lodge

• Book now: Loch Ness Lodge

“Loch Ness Lodge is the size of a modern-day castle, with modern amenities to match,” Afar contributor Matt Kirouac writes in his guide to the Scottish Highlands . Loch Ness Lodge has nine rooms, but each is decked out with details like goose-down duvets and flat-screen TVs. Of course, each room also has a view of the lake and the neighboring hills.

In Jordan, you can float in the Dead Sea, which is considered the lowest point on earth.

Courtesy of Visit Jordan

8. Dead Sea, Jordan

Despite the name, the Dead Sea is a lake that sits between Jordan, Israel, and Palestine . It’s a salty one at that, being almost 10 times saltier than the world’s oceans. In fact, the amount of salt in the water makes it so dense that people can easily stay afloat without swimming (objects that are less dense than water will float due to the scientific principle of upthrust ). Bring a pair of goggles—you really don’t want salt in your eye—and enjoy the natural phenomenon. Don’t forget to slap on some local mud before your dip, as it’s reputed to be great for the skin.

Where to stay: Marriott Dead Sea Resort and Spa

• Book now: Marriott Dead Sea Resort and Spa

The 250-room Marriott Dead Sea Resort and Spa has direct access to the Dead Sea. Sitting on the water body’s northeastern shores in Jordan, this property also features indoor and outdoor pools.