family road trip michigan

The Ultimate Michigan Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Days In The Great Lakes State

This post contains affiliate links, for which I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase.

Sharing is caring!

Offering access to four of the five Great Lakes, so much space that you’ll never feel crowded and glorious weather all summer, a Michigan road trip is the perfect getaway! But with plenty of things to do and see spread across the state’s two peninsulas, it can be tricky to put it all together.

Thanks to the help of some expert locals, we were able to craft the best Michigan road trip itinerary for our family trip. I’ve shared all our details below (including some things I would skip or change) so that you can get started planning your own amazing Michigan summer vacation!

Quick Overview

Days 1:  Arrive in Detroit or Grand Rapids Days 2-3:  Northern Lower Peninsula Days 4:  Mackinac Island Days 5:  Eastern Upper Peninsula Days 6-8:   Munising Days 9-10:   Houghton

You can use this itinerary as a general guide, but feel free to modify it to suit your needs. It would be easy to expand this to a two week summer road trip itinerary by continuing south to Chicago at the end for a few days before you return home, as we did. Chicago offers much better flights than the small airports in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan anyway!

If you’re pressed for time, consider taking Houghton off the itinerary and departing from Marquette (45 minutes from Munising) or Green Bay (3 hours from Munising).

Of course you can always reverse the order of this Michigan road trip itinerary if it’s more convenient for you.

Michigan Road Trip Logistics

• Our family did almost exactly this itinerary, departing from our home in Columbus Ohio. We did it as a loop, heading down to Chicago for several days after leaving Michigan. It would have been slightly faster to double back and head down via the Lower Peninsula – but where’s the fun in that? For those who live outside of the area, you’ll want to price out several combinations of flight and rental car options. The most convenient airport to start you off is Grand Rapids, followed by Detroit. If you choose either of those, you’ll probably need a one-way car rental and can look at dropping off and flying back from Houghton (CMX), Marquette (MQT) or even Green Bay (GRB). Alternatively, it’s easy enough to do the whole road trip as a loop beginning and ending in Chicago – you’d just have one long day of driving on either end.
• The first part of this itinerary is pretty fast-paced, and that’s in part because the Upper Peninsula is the star of the show but it’s far from most decent sized airports. One option to minimize short stays is to drive straight from the Detroit or Grand Rapids airport to Mackinaw City (4 hours) the day you arrive and start off with two nights on Mackinac Island. You could then extend your time in the eastern UP to two nights to explore slower.
• I strongly recommend that you book far in advance if you’re planning a summer trip to Michigan. I locked down all of our accommodations eight months in advance but there were still some places where our options were limited because we were late to the party.
• To save big on your accommodations, grab this credit card ASAP. We got it after we had already booked our hotels but it would have covered two of them and saved us a lot of money!
• Many areas of the Upper Peninsula are remote and quite undeveloped. There are pockets – especially along Lake Superior – where you won’t have cell phone service. I recommend that you use the Google Maps app to download the map above for offline use, which you’ll need to do when you have WiFi. Alternatively you may want to have a map like this one available to you. We had a paper map with us in one of our guidebooks but unfortunately there were some inaccuracies.
• If you’re driving your own car, bring a cooler and ice packs to keep a supply of water, snacks and lunch foods on hand. We did lots of picnic lunches, as restaurants are sometimes sparse and almost always more expensive than they would be elsewhere. We opted to book hotels that included breakfast for simplicity and to start our days faster, but you can also throw in some yogurt, cereal and shelf-stable milk if you plan to stay in vacation rentals.
• Each State Park charges is $11 per car for admission. We chose to buy the $39 non-resident annual pass at the first State Park we visited to give us flexibility and contribute to the upkeep of these beautiful sites. If you’re planning a Michigan roadtrip on a budget, you can map your itinerary to decide what’s right for you.

10 Day Michigan Road Trip Itinerary

Time to get into the details of our 10 day Michigan summer road trip itinerary!

1 Day in Detroit (or nearby)

Most people embarking on a Michigan road trip will start in the Lower Peninsula, with Detroit being the typical starting point thanks to the presence of the state’s largest airport. To get your bearings once you fly in, spend the night in Detroit or the nearby college town of Ann Arbor.

If you’re arriving early enough in the day and prefer to focus more time on the charming hamlets further north, you can skip this part and drive straight north – it’ll take you about four hours from Detroit to Petoskey or one of the nearby communities along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Things to do in Detroit

• The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation – This neat museum has a little bit of everything, from Presidential limousines and the actual bus Rosa Parks refused to leave to an exhibit focused on math and illusions.
• Ford Rouge factory tour – Want to see how cars are made? Sign up for a Ford factory tour! Production only occurs on weekdays before 2pm (earlier is better) so time your visit accordingly.
• Motown Museum – Learn all about the history of Motown and see where the hits were made! We’ve tried to go twice and been foiled both time – be sure to reserve your tickets when they become available three weeks in advance.
• Enjoy Ann Arbor – Stop into quaint Ann Arbor to explore its vibrant, hip Main Street. If you’re really lucky you’ll be there for the Ann Arbor Art Fair , which is the largest juried art fair in the US. We had a great time and bought some fun art from a variety of artists! Don’t miss lunch at Zingerman’s Deli , and consider calling in your order the night before to avoid long lines at this deservedly iconic spot.

Where to stay in Detroit

• Near The Henry Ford: The Henry, Autograph Collection or Hampton Inn Dearborn
• Downtown Detroit: Detroit Foundation Hotel
• Ann Arbor: Exhibit A2

2 Days in Northern Lower Peninsula

If you’re looking to start off your Michigan vacation with some relaxation, head to the northwest edge of “the Mitten” to kick things off. Folks here refer to Lake Michigan as “big lake” but routinely enjoy plenty of activities on the numerous small lakes dotting the region.

Things to do in Northern Lower Peninsula

Your time here doesn’t need a huge to-do list to be honest. Depending on where you stay, you could easily pass a few days lounging on the beaches of Lake Michigan, kayaking on a smaller lake (since the big lake is too rough) and enjoying ice cream and slices of Americana in the many cute towns around the area like Petoskey, Charlevoix and Harbor Springs.

In case you prefer some more specific adventures check out thse fun things to do in the area:

• Boyne Mountain – This ski resort transforms into an adventure center in the summer, boasting zip lines, the “world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge”, chairlift rides, horseback riding and more.
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – This picturesque Federally protected land is a favorite of many in the region. There are incredible 450 foot high bluffs and plenty of dunes to run around on and slide down.
• Torch Lake – You’d be forgiven for seeing photos here and thinking it’s the Caribbean thanks to the crystal clear shallow waters. There’s no real beach here though, you’ll want to enjoy the lake either by boat or swimming near the sandbar where the water is warmest.

Where to stay in Northern Lower Peninsula

Exactly where to stay depends on what you want to do, how far in advance you book and whether you prefer a hotel or a vacation rental (but note that many of these have a one week minimum in the busy summer season). Your drive time to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace will also depend on where you stay in this area.

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Petoskey – While there’s no great view here, it’s conveniently located for access to the adorable towns of Petoskey, Charlevoix, Harbor Springs and more.
• Inn at Bay Harbor – The most luxurious property in the region, with an amazing lakeside location, spa, golf and more.
• Stafford’s Bay View Inn – Sweet b&b right on the lake filled with a combination of homey yet classy charm.
• Torch Lake vacation home – If you’re excited about the warm, turquoise waters of Torch Lake or Sleeping Bear Dunes, grab this vacation home that’s just a 5 minute walk from the shore! It’s also a quick drive to the town of Bellaire, which has plenty of shops and restaurants.

Restaurants around Northern Lower Peninsula

There are a million restaurants in the area to try, but my biggest tip would be to pick spots by the water for the evenings (and bring a sweater).

• Barrel Back Restaurant – Great views and good food on Walloon Lake. This is on the second floor, so if you can get a window table you’ll be warm while enjoying the scenery!
• Pier Restaurant – Dockside dining in Harbor Springs, with an emphasis on locally-caught fish and seafood.
• Symon’s General Store – Perfect lunch stop for custom deli sandwiches in Petoskey, either to eat at the picnic tables in the adjacent park or to take to nearby Petoskey State Beach.
• American Spoon – This Michigan fruit preserve company has stores located in many towns along the Michigan coast, but if you go to their Petoskey location (next to Symon’s) you can enjoy those preserves made into delicious gelato!

1 Day on Mackinac Island

Many Michiganders look to Mackinac Island (pronounced “Mackinaw”) as a way to step back in time. The island has been a sacred gathering space for the local Indigenous communities since long before French fur traders arrived in the 1600s. Without a bridge to connect Mackinac to the mainland ever , much of the island’s historic character has been maintained.

Access remains by boat and on-island transportation is restricted to horses, bikes, occasional mobility scooters for those with physical challenges, and personal snowmobiles in the winter. Even golf carts are (supposed to be) relegated to golf courses.

You’ll reach the island by ferry, and can take either Star Line or Shepler’s. I’ve heard recommendations for both and I really don’t think it matters which one you take, though Shepler’s is a little less expensive. Both companies offer departures from Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula) and St. Ignace (Upper Peninsula) – if you get to the area early in the morning, you may opt for St. Ignace so that you’re crossing the Mackinac Bridge in low traffic.

You’ll save a few dollars by purchasing in advance online if you’re positive about your departure location, and if you’re visiting as a group or family look for the 3-4 packs of tickets for real savings. Shepler’s offers free day parking at both ports but you’ll have to pay for overnight parking with both companies at both locations.

Some visitors opt to bring their own bikes to Mackinac Island on the ferry, which is understandable because rentals are $50-60 for 4 hours! For most visitors just biking the loop with some stops (more info on that below) 2-3 hours should be sufficient. But if you’re bringing your own bike or trailer prepare to pay around $20 for its ferry ticket in addition to yours.

Since we had several weeks worth of gear in our van and only planned for one night on the island, we each brought a backpack for our overnight needs. The front desk of the Chippewa Hotel was kind enough to store them for us while we went biking.

Things to do on Mackinac Island

• Bike around Mackinac Island – There’s a perfect 8 mile loop around Mackinac Island that brings you to stunning rock formations, beautiful stone beaches, historic sites and more. It’s a can’t-miss activity if you’re physically able! We spent just over two hours looping the island, including leisurely stops in several places, trekking up the steep stairs to Arch Rock and getting ice cream at British Landing. There are several rental companies right at the dock when you get off the ferry and they’re all about the same. We found a wide selection of high-quality adult and kids bikes, plus trailers and tag-a-longs for younger kids (or less confident riders). Be sure to dip your toes in Lake Huron!
• Mackinac Island carriage tour – If you aren’t able to cycle or prefer not to, hop on a carriage operated by the world’s largest horse and buggy livery! The scenic carriage tours visit many of the island’s main attractions including Arch Rock, the Grand Hotel, the butterfly conservatory and Ford Mackinac. At the Fort this tour offers a “hop-on hop-off” option, which is the only way to visit For Mackinac without climbing a massive hill.
• Fort Mackinac – Perched high above the harbor, the 18th century Fort Mackinac still stands sentinel over the town below. It was constructed during the American Revolution and much of it remains largely as it was. There are plenty of fascinating things to do here in the span of an hour or two: attend one of many demonstrations throughout the day including cannon firing, check out the infrastructure that supported soldiers’ daily lives and even read the stories of officer’ families who were stationed there over time.
• Mackinac town historic sites – When you purchase a combo ticket for For Mackinac, you’ll also have access to several historic buildings in the town below. There are interesting for the stories they tell as well as demonstrations of life on the island during and shortly after the colonial period. We enjoyed both the blacksmith demonstration as well as the cooking demonstration.
• Butterfly House – We didn’t have time to visit either of the butterfly conservatories on Mackinac Island, but yes there are two! Based on recommendations I’ve received, I’d head to Butterfly House if time allows. It offers 1800 square feet of tropical gardens housing myriad butterflies and other interesting insects and is located just east of town – you’ll be only a block away as you head out to cycle around the island’s loop.

Where to stay on Mackinac Island

It can be tricky to find places to stay on Mackinac Island for just one night in the summer! Many properties have a two night minimum because it’s peak season and the island has strict zoning laws so you won’t find many true vacation rentals.

• Pontiac Lodge – If you plan to spend 2 nights on Mackinac Island, consider the much-loved Pontiac Lodge. It’s in the heart of town, walking distance to plenty of restaurants, shops and sites.
• Mission Point Resort – This b&b on the outskirts of town looks lovely and offers a variety of room sizes, and without the fanciness of The Grand Hotel. But it still doesn’t come cheap, so be sure to check prices before you commit.
• Sunset Condominiums – We stayed at this “condotel” right near Woods Restaurant and let’s say that it wasn’t our favorite place. Despite not being cheap (compared with non-Mackinac pricing) it really wasn’t great. No AC (or working bug screens), paper thin walls, very tired furnishings… but the upside is that it was one of the only places on the island I could book for one night, even eight months in advance.

Restaurants on Mackinac Island

You’re unlikely to find much “budget” dining (or anything else) on Mackinac due to both its popularity as a tourist destination as well as the expense and logistical challenges of island life.

• The Pink Pony – This 75 year old restaurant is so iconic that it’s basically the first thing you’ll see as you pull into the harbor, with the pink umbrellas fronting the Chippewa Hotel coming into view. It offers solid food and refreshing drinks. It also offers long lines (particularly when there’s a yacht race coming on to the island) so you might consider putting your name down as soon as you arrive on Mackinac and then going to do something else – we went for a bike ride around the island after storing our larger backpack with the helpful front desk at the hotel. Don’t miss the gift shop and free fudge samples as well!
• Woods Restaurant – This lodge-like outpost of The Grand Hotel sits on the far side of the island near Sunset Rock. Attire is a little less formal than at the Hotel itself (since you’ll either be trekking on dirt roads or riding in a horse-drawn carriage to get there) but you’ll still find ladies in dresses and some men in summer suits. We dined on the patio, which is lovely and charming. The food at Woods Restaurant is good but not life-changing (which you might expect at the price point). I would say it’s a “go for the experience” type of restaurant. Apparently there’s a duck pin bowling inside to enjoy while you wait but our otherwise excellent server didn’t mention it to us or our kids. Speaking of kids, in addition to a children’s menu they can do a child portion of some main dishes if you arrive early enough. If you plan to dine at Woods Restaurant, be sure to call a few days in advance to reserve a table at your preferred time. We opted to eat on the early side and then enjoy the sunset afterward (though the typical Michigan cloud cover didn’t oblige).
• Doud’s Market – If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to get food on Mackinac Island, Doud’s is a good choice. There’s an ample selection of snacks, breakfast and even pizza. If you visit their “Market & Deli” location near Shepler’s ferry they have sandwiches as well. We popped in and grabbed yogurt and muffins to eat while we waited for a morning ferry back to the mainland and it worked out perfectly.

1 Day in the Eastern Upper Peninsula

Once you cross the “mighty Mac” (aka Mackinac bridget), the largest single-span suspension in the western hemisphere, you’ll arrive in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Many people blast through this area and head straight to Munising, but I think it offers enough fun things to do that it’s worth staying the night.

Things to do in the eastern Upper Peninsula

• Tahquamenon Falls State Park – This is the star of the show! These are the biggest waterfalls in Michigan and some of the largest in the eastern half of North America (though we’ve seen some very impressive ones in Niagara Falls , Finger Lakes and Quebec in the last year as well). The Upper Falls can be viewed from an accessible viewing area above or from a viewing platform that’s down a length set of stairs – but worth the walk if you can do it. We spent most of our time at the Lower Falls and you probably will too! Put on your swimsuit or water-friendly clothes and shoes and prepare to get wet. Lower Tahquamenon Falls is a great place for sure-footed adventurers to feel the cascades up close. You can either rent a rowboat or take the boardwalk out to the island in the middle of the river, where you’ll find visitors of all ages splashing and having fun. Do be careful, as there are some slippery patches of stone. One of the first things you’ll probably notice is the color of the water: it’s a rich brown, earning the site the nickname “Rootbeer Falls”. Just know that the water at Tahquamenon Falls is clean enough to swim in! The color is caused by tannins from nearby tree bark leeching into the water.

• Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum – This fascinating, well-done museum shares the tragic histories of some of the thousands of ships that have met their end in this treacherous part of the Great Lakes region. The experience is equal parts memorial, story-telling and an opportunity to learn about marine archeology. You can easily spend several hours exploring the complex, which also includes the historic lightkeeper’s quarters which share the human side of the site. Allow 2-3 hours to explore the entire museum, including a video about the SS Edmund Fitzgerald.

• Whitefish Point – Right behind the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is the beautiful beach at Whitefish Point. It has a nice sandy stretch and then a rocky entry as is typical of Lake Superior beaches. This is the perfect place to practice your stone skipping! I recommend wearing a swimsuit or water-friendly clothing along with some sort of water-friendly footwear, as it’s a shame not to enjoy the relatively warm shallow water here.

• MI Dog – This awesome sled dog training facility is the perfect place to go if you’re on a Michigan road trip with kids! Owner Laura Neese is a long-distance musher and she opens her kennel up to visitors in the summer. It was a wonderful opportunity to learn more about dog sledding and the close relationship between a musher and her team, and also cuddle some adorable husky puppies! We visited another small kennel in Alaska with the kids and it turns out they even know each other. We had originally planned to visit a roadside animal attraction in Newberry, but read some upsetting information on how the animals are treated. If that’s on your radar, please be sure to research it thoroughly.

Where to stay in the eastern Upper Peninsula

I’ll be totally honest that we didn’t like where we stayed in Newberry, but everything in Paradise was booked eight months in advance or required a multi-night stay.

• Tahquamenon Suites Lodging – Simple but clean accommodations in an excellent location in Paradise! Just 15 minutes from both the falls and Whitefish Point. This hotel does have a two night minimum, so it’s only an option if you’re planning a slower pace in this area.
• Americas Best Value Inn Tahquamenon Country – If you’re just staying one night in the eastern UP, congrats… this is where you’ll be staying unless you decide to camp. It was “fine” but not a place we would have voluntarily stayed for a second night.

3 Days in Munising

Munising is one of the major highlights of the Upper Peninsula. There are so many things to do in Munising itself and in the surrounding area that you could easily extend your visit here to a fourth day.

We spent our arrival day and all of the following day exploring Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the next day in and around Manistique and then visited the sites in and around Marquette en route to our next stop. That UP itinerary worked very well!

Get more details: Awesome Things to do in Munising MI: A Road Tripper’s Guide

Things to do in Munising

• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – These iconic rainbow-hued sandstone cliffs are the biggest draw to Munising and should be at the top of your Upper Peninsula bucket list!
• Sand Point beach – Sand Point offers warm water and beautiful sunsets, plus a convenient location close to town.
• Pictured Rocks boat tour – To get a close up look at the cliffs, take a trip with Pictured Rocks Cruises . If the weather looks good, I recommend taking the last classic cruise that’s before the sunset cruise for brilliant colors and views in both directions.
• Kitch-iti-kipi – The “big cold spring” at Palms Book State Park is stunning! As you go across on a rope-propelled raft, you’ll see fish and wreckage below all the way to its 40ft depth. Plan to leave Munising first thing in the morning, as the drive is just under an hour and lines get long after lunch.
• Manistique – This cute town near Kitch-iti-kipi offers a warm, calm Lake Michigan beach at ThompsonRogers Roadside Park. You can visit the lighthouse in town as well.
• Lakenenland – Awesome privately owned but publicly accessible sculpture garden. Artist Tom Lakenen transforms scrap material into large-scale, interactive art. Wear your good walking shoes because you’ll be getting a lot of steps in!
• Marquette – For a totally different vibe, head to this quirky college town for lunch and a stroll on your way to Houghton. It’s also home to the iconic red Marquette Harbor Lighthouse.
• Sugarloaf Mountain – One of the best hikes in the Upper Peninsula. It’s about a 1.5 mile loop, but covers around 1,000 feet of elevation (some of that is on graded trail and some is on stairs). I’d rate it “moderate” and family-friendly. The views from the top are simply stunning!

Where to stay in Munising

• Holiday Inn Express Munising – Lakeview – We stayed here and it was excellent! If you book a balcony room (as we did) you can actually see Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore from you room. There’s a huge indoor pool, a lovely patio looking out to Lake Superior and rooms for up to six people!
• Roam Inn – If you’d rather stay in town, consider Roam Inn. It’s upstairs from the excellent Tracey’s restaurant, which is the perfect place to enjoy a high-end dinner while admiring the colorful sky over Lake Superior. Roam Inn offers rooms for two or four people.

Restaurants near Munising

• Tracey’s – As I mentioned above, this is the place to be for fine dining in Munising. Be sure to reserve a patio table shortly before sunset and grab a cocktail while you wait for your dinner to arrive.
• Pictured Rocks Pizza – Grab a top-quality pie to go and enjoy it as the sun goes down at nearby Sand Point beach. If it’s already dark, you can take advantage of their large turf patio to hang out on a summer evening over pizza and a soda.
• Frosty Treats – Fantastic sundaes in the heart of Marquette!
• Clyde’s Drive In – Burger lovers will have a great time at the Manistique outpost of this UP favorite. The food is delicious, fresh and affordable. There’s even a “Jr. Burger” for those with a smaller appetite, which ran us $3.45 in 2023.

2 Days in Houghton

Houghton is as far north as you’ll stay on this Upper Peninsula Michigan road trip, and it’s so far north that my cell phone welcomed me to Canada while we explored the Keweenaw Peninsula!

If you’re able to add an extra day to your Michigan summer itinerary, consider doing it here and taking a day trip to Isle Royale National Park – you can go by seaplane directly from Houghton or by ferry from Copper Harbor (there’s also a ferry from Houghton but it’s far too long to be practical for a day trip).

Get more details: 6 Unforgettable Things to do in Houghton, Michigan

Things to do in Houghton

• Quincy Mine tour – This is an excellent tour of a massive copper mine complex, but it also gives you a fascinating look at the Keweenaw Peninsula’s rise and fall over the 20th century. This site is part of the Keweenaw National Historical Park, and you’ll see the impressive above-ground facilities in addition to taking a lengthy walk in the mine. Best for kids 8+.
• Adventure Mining Company – This is another option for a mine tour near Houghton Michigan, but with optional “thrill” experiences for teens and adults.
• Chutes and Ladders playground – Massive climbing and slides playground along the waterfront in downtown Houghton.
• Brockway Mountain Drive – This scenic road between Silver River Falls and the village of Copper Harbor offers great scenic lookouts that don’t require any hiking. Just keep your eyes peeled for the very obvious places to stop.
• Agate Beach – This pretty spot just west of Copper Harbor is the perfect place to go hunting for agates and other beautiful rocks.
• Astor Shipwreck Park – This lovely beach park is just outside the bounds of Fort Wilkins Historic State Park. It’s an awesome place to relax and enjoy views of the Copper Harbor lighthouse as you wrap up your epic Michigan roadtrip!

Of course there are also tons of hiking trails in the area if you’re looking for active exploration!

Where to stay in Houghton

• Hampton Inn & Suites Houghton – We had a solid stay at this hotel, though there’s not a whole lot that sets it apart other than a generous breakfast spread in a really pleasant room (which isn’t always the case with simple chain hotels).
• Holiday Inn Express Houghton-Keweenaw

Restaurants near Houghton

• Harbor Haus – A delicious dinner in Copper Harbor for the last night of your Michigan UP road trip! It’s not cheap, and you’ll want to make a reservation a few days in advance.
• Milly’s Hancock – Great pizza spot in Hancock
• Keweenaw Co-Op Market & Deli – Perfect lunch stop thanks to their awesome sandwiches at the deli counter in the back

What to Pack for a Michigan Road Trip

There are a few things you’ll definitely want to pack for a summer road trip in Michigan. We brought these and found them very helpful!

• A paper map  – Some of these areas, particularly Upper Peninsula, don’t have great phone service. I suggest downloading maps to use offline in the Google Maps app, but also bringing  this paper map  as backup.
• A cooler  – This route covers about 1,000 miles so there are plenty of days when you’ll wind up driving around mealtime! We were really happy to have  this adorable (and effective) cooler  and  these serious ice packs  (2 of the XL size) with us for picnic lunches, quick hotel breakfasts and snack breaks. Everything stayed cold when we needed it to and the cooler has enough organization to consolidate paper plates, utensils, paper towels and even a bottle opener. We also brought collapsible silicone containers , which were helpful for snacks, blueberry picking and even sandwiches.
• Summer clothing (mostly)  – We were able to get away with almost exclusively summer clothes. In addition, we each brought one pair of jeans, one pair of hiking pants, a long sleeve t-shirt and a fleece or sweatshirt. Thankfully it’s a pretty easy trip to pack light for.
• Water-friendly shoes – While I’m personally not a fan of Keens, something along those lines is ideal footwear for a summer trip to Michigan. Once you leave the lower peninsula, most of the beaches have rocky entries and you’ll really appreciate having something protecting your feet. If you like Keens, you may be able to use them as your only footwear!
• Bug repellant – We had fewer bug challenges than we feared, but in general you’ll find plenty of mosquitos in northern Michigan. Bring insect repellant wipes for easy application when you know you’ll be outside for a long time.
• National Parks passport – The perfect way to remember your Michigan road trip is by getting stamps in your National Parks passport ! Opportunities include Pictured Rocks, Sleep Bear Dunes, Isle Royale, Keweenaw NHP and more. Just bring your passport inside any visitors center and use the provided stamps.

Still planning? Pin this for later!

What to read next

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Interactive Map Regions
• Upper Peninsula
• Northern Michigan
• Mid Michigan
• Southwest Michigan
• Southeast Michigan
• Battle Creek
• Copper Harbor
• Drummond Island
• Frankenmuth
• Grand Haven
• Grand Rapids
• Harbor Springs
• Houghton Lake
• Isle Royale
• Leelanau Peninsula
• Mackinac Island
• Mackinaw City
• Mt. Pleasant
• Sault Ste Marie
• Silver Lake
• South Haven
• Traverse City
• Michigan Events By Month
• Michigan Renaissance Festival
• Grand Rapids Lantern Festival
• Herbalist Festivals/Events
• Michigan Music Festivals
• Frankenmuth Flower Festival
• Blakes Lavender Festival
• Michigan Mushroom Festivals
• Plymouth Ice Festival
• Michigan Blueberry Festivals
• Polar Express Train
• Christmas Lights
• Rochester Christmas
• Meadow Brook Hall Christmas
• Kris Kringle Market Rochester
• Downtown Detroit Christmas
• Dow Gardens Christmas Walk
• Canterbury Village
• Live Nativity
• Christmas Events
• Midland Santa House
• Christmas Trains
• Silver Bells In The City
• Huckleberry Train
• Detroit Tree Lighting
• Christmas Towns
• Christmas Markets
• Rochester Christmas Lights
• Greenfield Village Holiday Nights
• Frankenmuth Christmas
• Indoor Water Parks
• Reindeer Farms
• Snow Tubing
• New Years Eve
• Nordic Fire Festival
• Frankenmuth Snowfest
• Tip Up Town Festival
• Michigan Holiday Events
• Michigan Tech Winter Carnival
• Valentines Events
• Michigan Valentines
• Pure Michigan Events
• St. Patrick's Day
• Easter Events
• Maple Syrup Festival
• 2024 Tulip Festival
• Festival Planner
• Interactive Maps
• Best Restaurants
• Holland Breweries
• Top 10 Things To Do
• Mackinac Island Lilac Festival
• Michigan Lavender Festival
• Great Lakes Bay Invitational
• KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship
• Grand Prix Detroit
• Cherry Festival
• Michigan Fireworks Displays
• 4th of July Events
• St Joseph Fireworks
• Bay City Fireworks
• Detroit Fireworks
• South Haven Fireworks
• Frankenmuth Events
• Ann Arbor Art Festival
• Michigan Air Shows
• Hot Air Balloon Festivals
• Coast Guard Festival
• Woodward Dream Cruise
• Detroit Autorama
• Metro Cruise Grand Rapids 28th Street
• Apple Festivals
• Michigan Fairs
• Corn Maze Farms
• Detroit International Auto Show
• Oktoberfest
• Labor Day Weekend
• Halloween Events
• Detroit Haunted Houses
• Grand Rapids Haunted Houses
• Fall Train Rides Color Tours
• Haunted Houses
• Elk Viewing
• Fall Festivals
• Turkey Farms
• Mackinac Bridge Walk
• Thanksgiving Day Parade
• Michigan Harvest Calendar
• U Pick Farms
• Asparagus Farms
• Apple Farms
• Blueberry Farms
• Cherry Farms
• Honey Farms
• Cider Farms
• Uncle Johns Cider Mill
• Lavender Farms
• Flower Farms
• Peach Farms
• Pumpkin Farms
• Raspberry Farms
• Strawberry Farms
• Sunflower Farms
• Zoos & Aquariums
• Binder Park Zoo
• Detroit Zoo
• Michigan Petting Zoos
• Wilderness Trails Zoo
• Sea Life Aquarium
• Shipwreck Museum
• Detroit Art Museum
• Henry Ford Museum
• Mackinaw Maritime Museum
• Huron Lightship Museum
• Greenfield Village

Motown Museum

• Michigan Farming-Agriculture
• Flint Institute of Arts
• Lumbermans Monument
• Meadow Brook Hall
• Fort Gratiot Lighthouse
• Japanese Tea Ceremony
• Michigan Capital
• Heidelberg Project
• 6 Top Getaways
• Lake Huron Day Trip
• Private Jet Flying
• Best Scenic Road Trip Grand Rapids To UP
• 7 Top-Rated Michigan Vacation Ideas
• Michigan Map
• Best Places to Stay on The Beach
• Luxury Home Rentals
• Vacation Rentals in Michigan
• Sleeping Bear Dunes Road Trip
• Traverse City Hotels
• Midland Hotels
• Mackinaw Island Hotels
• Frankenmuth Hotels
• Inn At Bay Harbor
• Things to do in Winter
• UP Road Trip
• UP Waterfalls Road Trip
• Michigan U Pick Farms
• Michigan Travel Guide Map
• Drive In Theaters
• Dow Gardens
• Ford Model "T" Plant Tour
• Ford F150 Factory Tour
• Tour the Capital
• Fisher Building Tour
• Interesting Places in Michigan
• USS Edson Ship Tour
• Castle Farms Tour
• Alden B Dow Home Tour
• Guardian Building Tour
• Dark Sky Parks
• Kitch Iti Kipi
• Northern Lights
• Mushroom Houses Charlevoix
• Midland Canopy Walk
• Best Michigan Small Towns
• Worlds Largest Cherry Pie
• Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
• Michigan Tunnel of Trees
• Epic Michigan Fall Tour
• Fall Activities
• Fall Colors in Michigan
• Haunted Places In Michigan
• St Ignace Car Show
• Frankenmuth Car Show
• Fall Color Map
• Eben Ice Caves
• Tahquamenon Falls in Winter
• Winter Festivals
• Kitchiti Kipi in Winter
• World of Winter
• Ski Resorts
• Tubing in Michigan
• 8 Winter Getaways
• Frankenmuth in Winter
• Winter Interesting Places
• Michigan Ice Skating Rinks
• Ice Skating Detroit
• Mackinaw City In Winter
• Frozen Waterfalls
• Michigan Sleigh Rides
• Hot Air Balloon Rides
• Battle Creek Field Of Flight
• Hiking Trails
• Find Yooperlite Rocks
• Tahquamenon Falls State Park
• Shiawassee Wildlife Refuge
• Kensington Metropark
• Arcadia Dunes
• Oval Beach Saugatuck
• Boardman Lake Trail Hike
• Largo Springs
• Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
• Pictured Rocks
• Kalamazoo Hiking Trails
• Tannery & Memorial Falls
• Seney National Wildlife Refuge
• Fossil Hunting
• Munising Falls
• Wagner Falls
• Sleeping Bear Dunes
• Silver Lake Dunes
• Michigan Botanical Gardens
• Ludington State Park
• Saugatuck Dunes State Park
• Michigan National Parks
• Southwest Michigan Golf Courses
• Great Lakes Loons Baseball
• Detroit Auto Show
• South Haven Lighthouse
• Point Betsie Lighthouse
• Michigan Diners, Drive In's and Drives
• Best Michigan Pizza
• Michigan Drive Ins
• 5 Insane Michigan Restaurants
• Best Michigan Burger
• 9 Insane Restaurants in Michigan
• Midland Michigan Restaurants
• Kalamazoo Restaurants
• Best Alpena Restaurants
• Midland Coffee Shops
• Farm to Table Restaurants
• Detroit Diners Drive Ins and Dives
• Michigan Cat Cafes
• Best Frankenmuth Restaurants
• Superman Ice Cream
• Michigan Pasty
• French Bread
• French Toast
• Green Smoothie
• Strawberry Pie
• Strawberry Shortcake
• How to Freeze Blueberries
• How To Freeze Strawberries
• Valentines Restaurants
• Michigan Thanksgiving Dinner
• Michigan Christmas Dinner
• Culinary Schools
• Michigan Breweries
• Best Grand Rapids Michigan Breweries
• Michigan Winery's
• Michigan Wines
• Outlet Malls
• Michigan Hats
• Michigan Experience Gifts
• e-Bikes & Michigan Rules
• Michigan Gifts
• Michigan Themed Gifts
• Michigan Gift Baskets
• Made in Michigan
• Adventure Gifts For Guys
• Valentine Gifts
• Best Pants for Cold Weather
• Michigan Necklaces
• Best Camelbak
• Bronners Frankenmuth
• Best Raincoats for Women and Men
• Holland Shopping
• Travel-MI Blog
• Things To Do Michigan
• 7 Day Michigan Itinerary
• Carriage House at the Harbor
• Northern Michigan Kayaking
• Things to Do Frankenmuth
• Things To Do Saugatuck
• 17 Interesting Places
• Best Golf Courses Michigan
• Things To Do Traverse City
• Things to See in Detroit
• Things To Do Belle Isle
• Things To Do Mackinac Island
• Things to Do Detroit
• 7 Holland Incredible Places
• Insane Michigan Places
• Adventure Travel
• Motorsports
• Snowmobiling Marquette
• Michigan Snowmobiling
• Paintball Parks
• Edmund Fitzgerald Wreck
• Travel-MI Authors
• Author: Sherry Trautman Bio
• Author: Chris Trautman Bio

Accessibility

• Contact us! Let's keep in touch!

7 Day Michigan Itinerary: An Epic Adventure Through the Great Lakes State

By Sherry Trautman

7 Day Michigan Itinerary | An Epic Adventure Through the Great Lakes State| By: Chris Trautman |  Travel-Mi.com  | Published: April 23, 2023

Embarking on a 7 day Michigan itinerary is like diving into a treasure chest of exciting adventures and jaw-dropping natural beauty. The Great Lakes State beckons you to explore its lively cities, pristine beaches, and everything in between.

Kick-start your escapade in the bustling city of Detroit , where you can marvel at the automotive world's wonders at the Henry Ford Museum and savor the city's scrumptious culinary scene. Traverse City , a true cherry and vineyard haven, is a must-visit destination during your 7 day Michigan itinerary. Indulge in delightful wine tasting experiences and treat your taste buds to farm-fresh delicacies at local eateries.

As you continue your jaunt, the mesmerizing Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore awaits your arrival. With its majestic sand dunes and crystal-clear waters, this natural wonder will leave you breathless. Immerse yourself in Michigan's nautical history by visiting one of its many iconic lighthouses, like the picturesque Grand Haven South Pierhead Light .

No Michigan adventure is complete without a visit to the magical Mackinac Island . Traverse the island's charming trails on foot, by bike, or in a horse-drawn carriage.

Finally, put a cherry on top of your 7 day Michigan itinerary by venturing north to the captivating city of Marquette. Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette offers outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike a treasure trove of experiences. Explore the city's historic downtown, hike to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for breathtaking views, or relax on the sandy shores of Presque Isle Park , creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Are you ready? LET'S GO!

The Ultimate Michigan Road Trip: 7 Day Itinerary and Interactive Map

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

Day 1: Detroit – Unleash Your Inner Motorhead

The Henry Ford Museum

Where: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124

Immerse yourself in Detroit's automotive legacy by exploring the fascinating exhibits at The Henry Ford Museum .  Also, Greenfield Village is located next door, and is an open-air living history museum that transports visitors back in time by showcasing America's rich historical and cultural heritage. 

Spread across 80 acres, the Greenfield Village features over 100 authentic, historic buildings, including Thomas Edison's laboratory, the Wright Brothers' bicycle shop, and Henry Ford's birthplace.

Visitors can explore the carefully preserved structures, interact with costumed interpreters, and participate in hands-on activities that provide a glimpse into the daily lives of Americans in the past. From vintage car rides to working farms, Greenfield Village offers an immersive, educational experience for history enthusiasts and families alike.

Where: 2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208

Get your groove on at the Motown Museum, where the infectious beats of legendary musicians still resonate through the halls.  Visit "Hitsville U.S.A." (nickname given to Motown's first headquarters and recording studio) to see the actual apartment Berry Gordy lived in during the label’s earliest days., See the original recording equipment and famous Studio A.

Belle Isle Park

Where: 2 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

Bask in the urban oasis of Belle Isle Park , offering a delightful fusion of nature, culture, and recreation.  You can walk the beach, visit the incredible Belle Isle Aquarium and observatory, or snap photos of the scenic James Scott Memorial Fountain. 

Detroit Art Institute

Where: 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202

We absolutely love the Detroit Art Institute!  You can spend the entire day exploring their 100 galleries spanning 658,000 square feet! Oh and you can also get your coffee fix in their lovely cafe!  

• KEEP READING : Grab our HUGE guide of all things Detroit! From Museums to Restaurants, this Detroit Michigan Travel Guide has it all. 
• Explore Detroit's Diners, Drive-ins and Dives!

Day 2: Ann Arbor – The Quintessential College Town Experience

University of Michigan Campus Tour

Where: Main entrance is located at 500 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109

Discover the architectural splendor and vibrant atmosphere of the University of Michigan's stunning campus. There are several museums on campus such as the Kelsey Architectural Museum that we just love to visit. 

Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum

Where: 220 E Ann St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Ignite your curiosity at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, an interactive playground for inquisitive minds. 

Nichols Arboretum

Where: 1610 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Wander through the lush, verdant landscape of Nichols Arboretum, a tranquil sanctuary for nature enthusiasts.

Ann Arbor Art Museum

Where: 525 S State St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109

Plan to spend a few hours perusing the incredible art at the Ann Arbor Art Museum!  Chris has a big grin the photo above!

State Street District

There is no specific address for the district, but it is located between South University Avenue and William Street, and from State Street to the west to Ingalls Mall to the east.

Experience the lively pulse of Ann Arbor's State Street District, a hub of eclectic shops, eateries, and entertainment.  It's a super busy place during the Ann Arbor Art Fair in July.  OH, and be sure to check out Graffiti Alley for a completely new art experience!

• KEEP READING: Grab our in-depth Ann Arbor Visitors Guide !

Day 3: Grand Rapids – The Artful Heart of Michigan

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525

Delight in the extraordinary fusion of art and nature at the enchanting Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Grand Rapids Art Museum, 101 Monroe Center St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Behold the diverse and captivating collections showcased at the esteemed Grand Rapids Art Museum.

Downtown Market Grand Rapids, 435 Ionia Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Satisfy your epicurean cravings at the bustling Downtown Market, a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts.

Grand Rapids Public Museum, 272 Pearl St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

Travel through time at the Grand Rapids Public Museum , offering a glimpse into Michigan's storied past.

Day 4 of our 7 Day Michigan Itinerary: Traverse City – A Wine Lover's Paradise

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, 9922 Front St, Empire, MI 49630

Marvel at the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sleeping Bear Dunes , where towering dunes meet crystal-clear waters. 

• KEEP READING : Be sure to check out our EPIC Sleeping Bear Dunes Guide which cover hiking trails, scenic outlooks, a map and things to do.

Traverse City Wine Tour

Popular wineries that offer tours and tastings include Chateau Chantal, Mari Vineyards, and Bowers Harbor Vineyards.

Embark on a vinous voyage through Traverse City's esteemed wineries, sampling the finest local libations.

• KEEP READING : Grab our HUGE Traverse City Things To Do Guide and our guides for the Leelanau Peninsula and the Old Mission Peninsula !

Fishtown Leland, 203 E River St, Leland, MI 49654

Stroll through the charming, historic Fishtown Leland , a quaint fishing village offering unique shops and eateries.  We love walking over the scenic dam and shopping all along Main Street. 

Clinch Park Beach, 111 E Grandview Pkwy, Traverse City, MI 49684

Unwind on the sandy shores of Clinch Park Beach, a serene lakeside retreat perfect for basking in the sun. You can also rent kayaks to explore the calm waterways. 

Day 5: Mackinac Island – A Step Back in Time

Mackinac Island Ferry Ride 

The Mackinac Island Ferry departs from several locations, including Mackinaw City and St. Ignace , both located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula .

The exact address of the departure point depends on which ferry company you choose to use. Some popular ferry companies include Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry, Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry, and Arnold Mackinac Island Ferry.

Sail under the Mackinac Bridge to the enchanting Mackinac Island , an awe inspiring journey and picturesque haven where time seems to stand still.

Grand Hotel, 286 Grand Ave, Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Marvel at the opulence of the iconic Grand Hotel, a living testament to the island's storied past. You can pay a small fee and tour the grounds of this majestic hotel. 

Fort Mackinac, 7127 Huron Rd, Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Explore the historic Fort Mackinac, where the echoes of 18th-century life still linger.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour

Horse-drawn carriage tours depart from several locations on Mackinac Island, including downtown Mackinac Island and the Grand Hotel. The exact address of the departure point depends on which tour company you choose to use. Some popular tour companies include Mackinac Island Carriage Tours, Grand Hotel Carriage Tours, and Gough Carriage Tours.

Experience the island's timeless charm from the comfort of a horse-drawn carriage, the perfect way to explore its scenic beauty.

• KEEP READING : Grab our Mackinac Island Tour Guide!

Day 6: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Mother Nature's Masterpiece

Miners Castle, Miners Castle Rd, Munising, MI 49862

Gaze upon the striking  Miners Castle  formation, one of the many awe-inspiring sights at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Pictured Rocks Boat Tour ,  100 City Park Dr, Munising, MI 49862

Embark on a boat tour to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty and grandeur of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore . We absolutely LOVED this cruise!  You will see such incredible scenery all along the way.

Chapel Rock and Beach, Chapel Beach Rd, Munising, MI 49862

Hike to the iconic Chapel Rock and Beach, where nature's splendor unfolds before

Day 7: Marquette – Upper Peninsula Adventure Marquette, 7 Day Michigan Itinerary Wrap Up

Maritime Museum, 300 N Lakeshore Blvd, Marquette, MI 49855

Begin your final day in Michigan by visiting the Marquette Maritime Museum, where you'll learn about the region's rich maritime history and get a glimpse of the iconic Marquette Harbor Lighthouse.

Presque Isle Park, 1201 N Lakeshore Blvd, Marquette, MI 49855

Next, explore the serene Presque Isle Park, a nature lover's paradise with stunning views of Lake Superior, picturesque trails, and abundant wildlife.

Northern Michigan University, 1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI 49855

Take a stroll around the beautiful campus of Northern Michigan University, home to impressive architecture, lush green spaces, and a lively student community.

Downtown Marquette Blackrocks Brewery, 950 W Washington St, Marquette, MI 49855

Spend the afternoon in downtown Marquette, where you'll find a unique blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and a vibrant arts scene.

End your Michigan itinerary on a high note with a visit to Blackrocks Brewery, a local favorite that offers a variety of handcrafted brews in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere.

And there you have it!

With this 7-day Michigan itinerary , you'll experience the diverse beauty, charm, and excitement that the Great Lakes State has to offer. From the bustling streets of Detroit to the rugged wilderness of the Upper Peninsula, there's truly something for everyone in Michigan. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to create unforgettable memories on your whirlwind tour of this incredible state!

About the Lead Author | Sherry Trautman

Thanks for stopping by.

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

"Sherry & Chris"

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

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

JOIN OUR NETWORK Join our newsletter of Michigan Explorers!

Share social.

When you wish destinations came with a 30 second trailer so you can see what you’re getting yourself into.  

If you whine and are nice, IM us and we will tell you if you are truly screwed or not. 

Where Do You Want To Start Your Next Adventure?

Disclosure Policy

Privacy Policy

Disclaimer Statement 

"We improve our products and advertising by using Microsoft Clarity to see how you use our website. By using our site, you agree that we and Microsoft can collect and use this data. Our privacy policy statement  has more details."

Sponsorship

Our Gallery

Travel- MI. com 

2014 N Saginaw Rd

Midland, MI 48640

©  Copyright Travel-mi.com 2018-2024

• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Exciting Cities
• Food And Drink
• Outdoor Adventures
• Where To Stay
• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

12 Fun Michigan Road Trips For your Bucket List

October 10, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored

Are you thinking about taking a road trip through Michigan?

Then take a look at this list full of fun and unique Michigan road trips because there are so many fun things to do in Michigan!

I am from the Midwest, and Michigan is one of my favorite Midwestern states to visit.

It’s a state that has so much to offer, from varying landscapes to cute small towns and even amazing food.

If you have been thinking about exploring Michigan, then you’ll love all the different Michigan road trip options on this list!

There is truly something for every type of traveler on here, and I think you’ll quickly find yourself packing for your next road trip in Michigan.

So, let us take a look at 12 fun Michigan road trips for your bucket list!

12 Fun Michigan Road Trips For Your Bucket List

Southwest michigan road trips.

• Battle Creek

Start your Southwest Michigan road trip adventure in the town of Battle Creek.

Battle Creek is known as Cereal City because it is the birthplace of Kellogg’s.

The town also has a great Natural History Museum and Planetarium, a Kingman Museum, and the Leila Museum.

Next head to the town of Kalamazoo.

It is a University town and there are so many things to do in Kalamazoo!

You’ll definitely want to head to the Air Zoo. The Air Zoo is home to vintage planes that are all named after animals, many of which were used in WWII.

The Air Zoo also has fun aviation-themed rides and flying simulators.

After exploring Kalamazoo, finish your road trip to Southwest Michigan in Paw Paw.

Paw Paw is the Easternmost town in Michigan’s wine country.

While there, do a winery tour at one of the many local wineries and reflect on your fun Midwestern road trip.

Visiting The Upper Peninsula Is One Of The Epic Michigan Road Trips

• Mackinac Bridge
• Kitch-iti-kipi
• Porcupine Wilderness State Park
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

The Upper Peninsula is one of my favorite places in Michigan to explore and this is one of the best Michigan road trips to explore the area.

Start your road trip by crossing the Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula.

Once you’ve crossed the Mackinac Bridge, you’ll be in the Upper Peninsula, so head on to Kitch-iti-kipi.

Kitch-iti-kipi is an amazing freshwater spring in Michigan. It has clear blue waters that you can see directly into.

From there, continue to Porcupine Wilderness State Park. It’s a great place to get out and it has some of the best hiking in Michigan!

Continue on to attractions in Marquette , the biggest city in the Upper Peninsula.

Grab something to eat, stroll through the shops, and enjoy views of Lake Superior.

End your Michigan road trip at Pictured Lakes Nation Lakeshore, one of the best National Parks in Michigan .

If you decide to travel to the UP there are so many things to do in Sault Ste Marie!

Lighthouses Of Michigan Road Trips

• Big Red Lighthouse
• Point Betsie Lighthouse
• Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
• Sturgeon Point Lighthouse

You can find some of the coolest lighthouses in the Midwest in Michigan.

Begin your road trip at the Big Red Lighthouse, one of Michigan’s most iconic lighthouses.

Big Red is a visitor favorite and is so cool to admire.

Then head to Point Betsie Lighthouse, which is known as a marker of the Manitou Passage.

Built in 1858, the 36-foot lighthouse is open to visitors daily.

From the top of the lighthouse, on clear days, you can see Sleeping Bear Dunes, which are 14 miles away.

Continue on to the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. Built in 1890, it’s another one on this road trip in Michigan that is open daily for visitors.

Finish your Lighthouses of Michigan road trip at the Sturgeon Point Lighthouse.

It is a charming lighthouse that was originally built in 1869 and is a great way to end your trip.

There are so many comfy cabins in Michigan if you plan to extend your trip!

Waterfalls Of Michigan Road Trip

• Potawatomi Falls
• Manabezho Falls
• Miners Falls
• Tahquamenon Falls

There are so many beautiful waterfalls in Michigan and this road trip hits a lot of the best ones.

Begin your scenic drive in Michigan at the Potawatomi Falls. It is right near the Wisconsin border and part of the Black River Scenic Byway.

Continue on to Manabezho Falls, which can be found in Porcupine Wilderness State Park. It is one of the coolest state parks in Michigan .

From there, head to Miners Falls.

Miners Falls can be found at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

These falls may be difficult to get to as there are 77 steps that lead to the viewing platform. But if that sounds doable, they are worth the effort.

Finish your Michigan waterfalls road trip at the Tahquamenon Falls, which is one of the largest waterfalls East of the Mississippi.

The falls are absolutely stunning and make a great last waterfall on your road trip.

Michigan Road Trips For Natural Wonders

• Turnip Rock
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

This is one of the more unique Michigan road trips because its all about the diverse landscapes that you can find in the state.

Start by admiring the Turnip Rock in the small lakeside town of Port Austin.

You can kayak out to the unique rock formation to get a closer look, or admire it from the shore.

From there, head to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

The cliffs along the lakeshore are beautiful and you’ll find a ton of unique rock formations as well as great hiking trails.

Continue on to Kitch-iti-kipi, a large natural freshwater spring in the middle of the Upper Peninsula.

You can take a floating dock to the middle of the spring to get a better look at its depths.

Finish your Natural Wonders of Michigan road trip at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a beautiful lakeshore that is a great way to end your adventure.

Covered Bridges Of Michigan Road Trips

• Fallasburg Covered Bridge
• Ada Covered Bridge
• Holz-Brucke Bridge

The Michigan Covered Bridges Trail is one of the best Midwest road trips .

Begin your road trip at the Fallasburg Covered Bridge. At 100 feet long, it has been a popular local site since 1871.

From there, head to the Ada Covered Bridge.

The Ada Covered Bridge carries foot traffic over the Thornapple River to Bronson Street.

The first bridge was built in 1867 but unfortunately burned down in the 1970s. Since then, it has been lovingly rebuilt.

End your Covered Bridges of Michigan road trip at the Holz-Brucke Bridge.

The bridge is outside of the iconic town of Frankenmuth and is actually fairly new. It was built in 1980 but quickly became a tourist staple.

Michigan Road Trips For Foodies

• Rose’s Fine Food
• Frita Batidos
• Black Star Farms

You’ll begin your Michigan Foodies Road Trips at Rose’s Fine Food, one of the coolest restaurants in Detroit.

While there, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast fresh house-made bread, garlicky greens, and amazing fresh pastries.

Next head to restaurants in Ann Arbor where you can grab lunch at Frita Batidos. It is a hamburger restaurant that has a Cuban twist.

On the entire menu, you’ll find American diner staples with Cuban influences. Like chorizo burgers, black beans, and coconut milk milkshakes.

Continue on your road trip in Michigan to HopCat, a Grand Rapids restaurant.

HopCat is known for its craft beers and gourmet bar bites.

Finish the Michigan road trip at Black Star Farms in Sutton’s Bay. It is a great place to sample the local wine while you explore the extensive grounds.

If you are interested in food then this is one of the best Michigan road trips for you.

Ghost Towns Of Michigan Scenic Drives

• Lake Linden

Many of the ghost towns of Michigan are old mining towns that were left abandoned after the mining industry in the area dried up.

The first stop on your Michigan road trip is Laurium.

Laurium was originally named after an ancient Greek mining town. It is not completely abandoned, but with under 2,000 occupants, it is practically empty.

Next on your Michigan scenic drive is Lake Linden.

Lake Linden was the site of a copper ore processing plant outside of the town of Calumet.

It’s now on the National Register of Historic Places.

End your road trip in Hubbell, which was once a thriving mining town. Now, there are less than 900 occupants in the long-abandoned town.

Small Towns Of Michigan Road Trip s

• Frankenmuth

There are so many small towns in Michigan , and this road trip takes you to some of the best ones.

Begin your Small Towns of Michigan road trip in Frankenmuth.

Frankenmuth is known as ‘Little Bavaria’ and is full of charm. You’ll find great food, unique shops, and so much more as you stroll down the streets.

This is one of the best places to experience Christmas in Michigan.

Next, head to Chelsea. If you have time, make sure you check out a play at the local theater and peruse the cute shops in the downtown district.

From there travel to Saugatuck where you can check out one of the many local art galleries, sample some fresh fudge, and admire the boats in the harbor.

End your Michigan road trips in Frankfort a cute beach town. You’ll find rows of Victorian homes, beautiful lake views, and so much more.

Fall Foliage In Michigan Scenic Drives

• Hiawatha National Forest
• Fayette Historic State Park
• Palms Brook State Park

One of the best Michigan road trips is the Fall Foliage Road Trip.

For some of the best views of fall foliage, start your scenic Michigan drive in the Hiawatha National Forest.

The National Forest is over 890,000 acres and is the best place to view fall foliage during the peak season.

Next up is the Fayette Historic State Park where you can enjoy the fall leaves while exploring one of Michigan’s oldest smelting towns.

Its a really unique way to admire the fall foliage in Michigan.

You’ll finish your road trip at the Palms Brook State Park.

There you’ll find tons of hiking trails, and the famous Kitch-iti-kipi spring. Fall in Michigan is so beautiful!

Huron Shores Heritage Route

• Tawas Point State Park
• Dinosaur Gardens
• Presque Isle

The Huron Shores Heritage Trail makes for a great Michigan scenic drive and road trip.

In the charming small town of Standish, you’ll start your drive on the trail.

From there, head to Tawas Point State Park.

While you’re there, you can explore the hiking trails, swimming, and even a lighthouse.

Continue your scenic Michigan drive with a stop at the Dinosaur Gardens.

The Dinosaur Gardens is a fun roadside attraction with over 25 dinosaur statues.

It is a great place to stop and take a selfie and a fun place to make some unique memories.

Finish your exploration of the Huron Shores Heritage Route at Presque Isle.

There you can tour two lighthouses, admire the boats in the harbor, and find great places to eat and shop.

New Buffalo To St. Joseph On The Red Arrow Highway

• New Buffalo

There are so many things to do in New Buffalo . It is also the starting point of Michigan’s Red Arrow highway.

From there, head to check out the attractions in St. Joseph , a super cute small town in Michigan.

St. Joseph is known as one of the best beach towns in Michigan , so it’s worth a stop.

Continue on to Albion, where you can learn about the local history by touring a house museum.

In Jackson, you’ll finish your scenic drive in Michigan on the Red Arrow Highway.

Jackson has a great downtown scene, historic buildings, and great restaurants and shops. It’s the perfect stopping point for your road trip in Michigan.

Packing List For Your Michigan Road Trips

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Michigan, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when during your scenic drives in Michigan. 

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

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

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

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

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

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 so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies with all those nature shots while on your road trips in Michigan.

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

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

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

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

You can find  filter replacement s here. 

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car. Then this  collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you.

Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when on your Michigan road trips. No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

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

Michigan road trips are so varied and unique, it is difficult to select just one. If you decide to travel to the UP there are so many things to do in Sault Ste Marie!

I hope you enjoyed seeing some of my favorite road trips through this great Midwestern state.

Have you gone on any of these road trips, or any that are similar?

If not, is there one that is really calling to you?

I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Reader Interactions

[…] is one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids Michigan as part of a Michigan road trip to learn about our 38th President and the First […]

8 must-do road trips in Michigan

Apr 28, 2023 • 7 min read

Hit the highway on a road trip around beautiful Michigan © Peter Griffith / Getty Images

Michigan doesn’t have to work hard to make its case for being a mighty American road trip destination.

The state is home to more beaches than the entire Atlantic seaboard, it’s bordered by four of the five Great Lakes, and more than half of the state’s land is blanketed by forest.

Toss into the mix some towering sand dunes, isolated lake islands and scenic byways, plus a dash of roadside allure (Covered bridges! Lighthouses! Kitschy historic downtowns!), and you have an indelible blueprint for a classic road trip.

Here are eight of our favorite Michigan road trips to get your motor running.

1. Driving around Michigan's "Mitten"

Best road trip for exploring the Upper Peninsula Detroit–Detroit; 987 miles

Pull on your best driving gloves; this road trip is the big one. Speaking of gloves, Michigan's Lower Peninsula is nicknamed “the Mitten" because of its distinctive shape (look it up – it makes more sense when you see it on a map), and threading along its outer edges on this epic drive takes in some of the state's best natural scenery.

Heading out of Detroit  and following the coast clockwise, you'll skirt the extensive shorelines of Lake St Clair, Lake Huron and Lake Michigan, the latter of which is home to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, one of only three protected lakeshore areas in the country and the perfect spot to spend a night under canvas.

Road trippers who prefer a cozy B&B to a night in the wild needn’t stress, though. The route brims with lakeside villages and towns, including St Joseph, Tawas City, Harbor Springs, Petrosky, Traverse City, Elberta, Ludington, and Douglas, all with attractions and charm to warrant a pause of a night or two. Once well rested, finish off the journey by climbing the cloud-kissing sand dunes at Warren Dunes State Park , 15 miles northeast of the Indiana border. Tower Hill, the park's tallest dune, stands at a whopping 240ft.

2. The Gold Coast

Best road trip for beaches and shoreline Saugatuck–Mackinaw City; 366 miles

Appropriately named the Gold Coast , Michigan's 300-mile western shoreline is a sun-kissed stretch of golden beaches and wind-whipped sand dunes. Together, the M-22 Scenic Drive and US-31 run the length of it, hugging the Lake Michigan coast from the beautiful resort town of Saugatuck to the end of the line 293 miles north in Mackinaw City, which is actually a village that's home to an 18th-century French fort.

Along the way, the meandering stretch of road passes storybook orchards and vineyards, snug harbors, Victorian mansions, Hemingway haunts and slow-paced, accommodation-rich beach towns.

Planning tip: Looking for Michigan's best beaches ? Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Fifth Avenue Beach in Manistee and Good Harbor Bay Beach south of Leland are great spots for a quick dip in summer.

3. Michigan in the middle

Best road trip for seeing Michigan old and new Detroit–St Joseph; 206 miles

Lengthy shorelines commandeer the lion's share of travel adventures in this state, but Michigan's middle ain't too shabby, either, offering a cultural rewind of sorts, from new and improved Detroit to a bygone era in St Joseph.

Begin in the storied metropolis of Detroit, where iconic American brands Ford, Chrysler and Motown built a city that has rebranded itself in the last decade, emerging from years of economic decline like a hipster phoenix. Enjoy the fruits of formerly abandoned buildings turned distilleries, breweries, cafes, galleries and boutiques before heading west on I-94 to Ann Arbor, a college town home to the University of Michigan.

Next up on the route is Battle Creek, boasting southwestern Michigan's only natural history museum, located within a massive 72-acre arboretum. Continue on to Paw Paw, where you can dabble around the edges of southwest Michigan wine country, before reaching St Joseph, on the shores of Lake Michigan, where the famed Silver Beach Carousel twirls amid an antiquated era of refined amusement.

4. Taking it slow in Harbor Country

Best road trip for a short shore drive Michiana–Sawyer; 17 miles

For a taste of Michigan's western shoreline without the commitment of a 300-mile trip, the eight charming beach towns that make up Harbor Country , on the southern end of the coast, offer an adventure in miniature.

Along the shore, golden sands, picturesque marinas and handsome hamlets pepper the route from Michiana, mere steps from the Indiana border and only an hour from downtown Chicago, to Sawyer, the northernmost Harbor Country community. Highlights along the way include the region's largest public beach in New Buffalo, one of Michigan’s largest organic distilleries (Journeyman in Three Oaks), Michigan's most-awarded and longest-running winery (St Julian Wine Company in Union Pier) and a surplus of antique shops, artsy boutiques, fine-dining restaurants and preserved Americana charm.

Planning tip:  You can drive the route in a mere 22 minutes, but that's not the point – this is a leisurely road trip of discovery.

5. Upper Peninsula lighthouses

Best road trip for lighthouse spotting Munising–Escanaba; 513 miles

Few items feature prettier on a postcard than a well-preserved lighthouse, and no state boasts more of these maritime icons (129!) than Michigan. (Maine sits humbly in second place with 80 lighthouses.) Michigan's Great White North, the Upper Peninsula  features 40 or so of these nautical towers, most built in the 1800s, of which a dozen or so are open for tours.

This counterclockwise adventure begins with the Munising Range Lighthouses at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and follows the peninsula's edge east, south and back west to Escanaba, where both the Peninsula Point Lighthouse (1866) and Sand Point Lighthouse (1867) are open for tours and tower climbs.

Along the way, don't miss preserved gems such as the Au Sable Light Station (also in Pictured Rocks), Crisp Point Lighthouse in Paradise (which has sat beautifully on Lake Superior’s ominously named Shipwreck Alley since 1904), the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point Lighthouse, and the views on offer atop the Point Iroquois Lighthouse in Brimley.

6. River Road National Scenic Byway

Best road trip for nature Oscoda–Hale; 26 miles

Extending westward from Lake Huron into the Huron–Manistee National Forests, the River Road National Scenic Byway affords an opportunity to drive into the natural wonders of Michigan's interior. 

Hugging the Au Sable River, once a vital route for transporting giant white pine from the forest to Lake Huron's sawmill towns, this family-friendly road trip takes in riverside campgrounds, scenic outlooks, monuments, historic sights, hiking and cross-country ski trails.

Planning tip: Learn more about the area's logging history at Lumberman’s Monument Visitor Center.

7. Sunrise Coast

Best road trip for scenic views Au Gres–Mackinaw City; 179 miles

Lake Michigan tends to hog most of the headlines, but Lake Huron is perfectly content in its position as the quiet underdog to the east, offering those who choose the Huron Shores Heritage Route a long list of wineries, lighthouses, art galleries, marine sanctuaries and, of course, spectacular sunrises.

This road trip begins in Au Gres, the gateway to Michigan's sunrise side, before jutting straight north paralleling some 200 miles of shoreline along US-23 all the way to Mackinaw City, where ferries can be caught to tranquil Mackinac Island. 

Besides the postcard-perfect day breaks, worthwhile stops include Charity Island Lighthouse, Tawas Point State Park (boasting one of eastern Michigan's best beaches), Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary (the Great Lakes' only marine sanctuary) and Cheboygan, home to wineries, breweries, lighthouses and endless small-town charm.

8. Tunnel of Trees

Best road trip for forests Harbor Springs–Cross Village; 16 miles

Michigan's historic M-119 scenic route, otherwise known as the Tunnel of Trees, is a narrow ride along a stunning bluff overlooking Lake Michigan that sits under a canopied thatch of hardwoods and evergreens. 

In addition to the outstanding forested vistas in all directions, openings in the patchwork reveal spectacular water views over the lake. Beyond the scenery, the route dishes up small-town charisma in spades, including old-timey general stores, farms offering provisions, vineyards, breweries, artist boutiques, studios, galleries and a wealth of historic diversions. You can stretch this road trip out a little on each end as well, tacking on the charming town of Petoskey (with cozy B&Bs, spas and golf), ten miles south of Harbor Springs, and Wilderness State Park (beaches and hiking trails), 16 miles north of Cross Village.

Planning tip: This route is at its most colorful and brilliant in fall, when prisms of light fight for space through breaches in the lush foliage, but each season has its highlights.

This article was first published Aug 27, 2021 and updated Apr 28, 2023.

Explore related stories

Apr 14, 2024 • 8 min read

Take in the true scope of the continental USA by setting out in an RV or camper. Here are 10 states you’ll want to add to your itinerary.

Apr 27, 2022 • 6 min read

Apr 14, 2022 • 7 min read

Dec 25, 2021 • 5 min read

Jul 4, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 4, 2024 • 13 min read

May 9, 2024 • 9 min read

May 3, 2024 • 12 min read

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Sep 16, 2023 • 7 min read

6 Breathtaking Scenic Drives in Michigan

When you think of Michigan , two things usually come to mind – the Great Lakes and the beautiful scenery.

There are so many different types of terrain and landscapes to explore in Michigan, from forests and lakes to dunes and farmland. And what better way to experience all of this than by taking a road trip?

From the shores of Lake Superior to the picturesque forests of the Upper Peninsula, there are endless opportunities for scenic driving in Michigan.

Best Scenic Drives in Michigan

1. sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area. The 35-mile-long route winds along the shores of Lake Michigan, past towering dunes and through birch and pine forests.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife, hike in the sand dunes, and take in views of the lake that will take your breath away.

There are several must-see stops along the way, including the Dune Climb , Sleeping Bear Point, and Empire Bluff. The Dune Climb is a windswept beach where you can search for agates and offers incredible views of the surrounding area (if you can brave the climb!).

Sleeping Bear Point is a beautiful spot for sunset watching and, of course, the Sleeping Bear Dunes themselves – the largest collection of freshwater coastal dunes in the world.

You’ll also want to make sure to stop at one of the many overlooks to take in the breathtaking views, including Lake Michigan Overlook. Trust me; this is one scenic drive you won’t want to miss!

• See why Lake Michigan is one of the most popular US family lake vacation destinations

2. Porcupine Mountains Scenic Byway

Not an official byway by name, the Silver City-Lake Gogebic Loop is about 120 Miles long and takes you through the heart of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park , offering stunning views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests. The drive itself is pretty incredible, but there are also plenty of opportunities to get out and explore.

If you love waterfalls, this is definitely the drive for you. There are several of them along the way, including Little Union Gorge Falls, Nonesuch Falls, Manabezho, Manido, and Nawadaha falls.

The Upper Peninsula is known for its wild beauty, and the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is a great place to experience it. The Park covers more than 60,000 acres of forestland and over 90 miles of hiking trails that wind through the woods.

The park also offers several campgrounds, cabins, and yurts for those who want a more rustic experience. Animal lovers will enjoy the variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, moose, and bald eagles.

You’ll also want to make sure to stop at Lake of the Clouds, an absolutely stunning overlook that offers panoramic views of the area. It’s definitely one of the highlights of the drive!

3. Pure Michigan Byway M-22

This is probably one of Michigan’s most well-known scenic drives, and for good reason – it’s absolutely beautiful. The drive itself is about 120 miles long and takes you along the Lake Michigan shoreline, past forests, and dunes, with several small towns along the way.

One of the best things about M-22 is that there are so many different places to stop and explore. Some of the must-sees include Arcadia Bluffs overlook , Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (mentioned above), Point Betsie Lighthouse, and the small town of Glen Arbor.

Built in 1858, the Point Betsie Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Michigan, and is still in use today. Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers stunning views of the water and surrounding landscapes.

The lighthouse is open to the public and features an informative museum about the area’s history. Climb to the top of the lighthouse, or there are also several nearby hiking trails, perfect for exploring the region’s natural beauty. And in the evening, visitors can enjoy a sunset cruise on one of the lake’s many scenic cruises.

Glen Arbor is a great place to stop for a bite to eat or to do some shopping. There are plenty of cute little shops, as well as art galleries, ice cream parlors, and restaurants. The town also has a beautiful beach where you can relax and enjoy the views.

There are so many different things to see and do along the way that you could easily spend a week exploring everything M-22 has to offer.

4. Tahquamenon Scenic Byway

The Tahquamenon Scenic Byway is a beautiful route that runs along the Tahquamenon River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula through some of the state’s most beautiful countryside.

The byway is about 60 miles long and winds through forests and past lakes, offering stunning views of the river and access to several great hiking trails and picnic areas.

One of the highlights of the drive is Tahquamenon Falls State Park , which features two stunning waterfalls – the Upper Falls and Lower Falls. The Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River and is absolutely breathtaking.

The Lower Falls is a series of smaller waterfalls but is no less impressive. Both are definitely worth a visit! The out-and-back hike to the Falls is about ten miles and moderate in difficulty.

Rainbow Point is a lovely spot located just off the Byway, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch with a view. Rainbow Point gets its name from the colorful rocks that line the shore of the Tahquamenon River. It’s a great place to relax and take in the area’s natural beauty.

5. Sunrise Coast US-23

The Sunrise Coast US-23 in Michigan is a beautiful route that hugs the shoreline from Mackinaw City to Standish. From the Upper Peninsula’s rolling hills to Lake Huron’s sandy shores, this route takes you through some of Michigan’s most stunning scenery.

It’s a popular drive for locals and tourists alike and offers plenty of sightseeing, shopping, and dining opportunities.

One of the Sunrise Coast highlights is the Mackinac Bridge, which spans five miles over the Straits of Mackinac and connects Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

It’s one of the longest suspension bridges in the world and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding countryside. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a ship passing underneath!

Headlands International Dark Sky Park is close to the bridge on 2 miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan beach. This is one of only a handful of parks in the US that has been designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world!

The park has five miles of hiking trails and is also home to several wild native animals, including whitetail deer, bald eagles, coyotes, osprey, wild turkeys, and sometimes you may even see a black bear.

Mackinac Island is another highlight of the Sunrise Coast. This small island is only accessible by ferry, and once you’re there, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

There are no cars allowed on the island, so the only way to get around is by foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage. The island is home to several historical sites, as well as beautiful beaches, forests, and trails.

Further south, stop at picturesque Tawas Point State Park for a dip in the warm shallow waters or to enjoy a picnic lunch while birdwatching.

Tawas Point is a sandy peninsula that juts out into Lake Huron and offers stunning views in all directions. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Michigan.

6. Tunnel of Trees

One of the most iconic drives in Michigan is a 20 miles section of M-119, also known as the Tunnel of Trees. It gets its name from the canopy of trees that arch over the road, creating a tunnel-like effect.

The two-lane road winds its way through the dense forest canopy, offering breathtaking views of the falling foliage and the bright green of the trees in the spring.

The route is popular with cyclists and has been named one of the best cycling routes in the country.

While the majority of the route is through the forest, there are also several small towns along the way where you can stop for a bite to eat or to explore. Here are four things to do along the route:

• Stop in Harbor Springs for lunch at Pond Hill Farm. This working farm has a cafe and winery on site and several fun activities, including a Gnome House Hunt .
• Take a hike at Petoskey State Park and look for Michigan’s state stone of the same name.
• Explore the General Store in Good Hart. This charming store has been in business since 1934 and is full of old-fashioned goodies like homemade jams, whitefish pate, and a wide selection of Michigan-made products.
• Finally, no trip to the Tunnel of Trees would be complete without a stop at the famous Legs Inn . The restaurant is known for its delicious Polish cuisine and its beautiful setting overlooking Lake Michigan. Be sure to try the pierogi!

These are just a few of the many gorgeous drives that Michigan has to offer. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking views, historic sites, or a chance to relax and enjoy nature, you’ll find it all in the Mitten State. Which scenic drive will you take first?

© Family Road Trip 2024

About Family Road Trip

Similar Posts

15 Exciting Things To Do With Kids On A Canberra Family Holiday

A family trip to Canberra might not be the first destination you think of visiting in Australia. But while many often overlook it in favour of its more prominent counterparts like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, the nation’s capital nonetheless has plenty to offer for families seeking an enriching and entertaining experience. Not convinced? Keep reading until the end because this article will showcase what makes this city so appealing for a family to visit. From fascinating museums and outstanding…

8 Bucketlist-worthy Destinations For Your Arizona Road Trip

Home to six national parks, thirty one states parks, and some of the most iconic landmarks in the United States, Arizona is king when it comes to gorgeous scenery. Simply put, the Copper State is a haven when it comes to unparalleled views, especially if desert terrain is what you’re after. If you’re currently in the planning stages of your Arizona road trip itinerary, chances are you’re currently feeling overwhelmed when choosing where to go and what to do…

6 Scenic Drives in Rhode Island Everyone Should Experience

Rhode Island is a small state with a population of just 1.6 million people. It is ranked as the 12th smallest state in the country. However, despite its size, Rhode Island has plenty to offer anyone looking for scenic drives and beautiful places to visit. It’s easy to see why Rhode Island has been named one of the most beautiful states in America. The state has more than 1,000 miles of coastline, which means you can always find a…

8 Magical Winter Vacations in Canada For Families

As the weather gets cooler and we get closer to the end of December, the winter season is on the horizon. Canadian Winters are known for cold temperatures, beautiful snowfalls and a wide variety of winter activities. Winter is one of the best seasons in Canada, as there are so many unique outdoor excursions that visitors can enjoy, including skiing, hiking, snowboarding, and sledding.  If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Canada in winter, then you…

Every Exciting US East Coast National Park to Explore in 2024

The United States has over 420 beautiful and historic national park sites covering almost every state and territory. The crown jewel are the the country’s 63 designated national parks – offering visitors natural beauty with stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and plenty of adventure activities. The best part about them? You don’t need an appointment! Most national parks welcome walk-in visitors (well, mostly drive-in visitors), and many of the east coast national parks of the United States are amazingly free…

Utah Mighty 5 Road Trip Map + 1 Week Itinerary

The Most Incredible National Parks Road Trip in America Breathtaking hikes, expansive landscapes of red-rock formations, and unbeatable adventures in the desert are just a few of the aspects that make a road trip through Utah the insanely magical experience that it is and one of the best American road trips for nature-lovers. If you’re currently in the planning stages of your road trip to Utah, chances are one of the things you’re most excited to do is to…

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Current Issue
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

Best Michigan Road Trips

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.

Traverse City, Mackinac Island, the Upper Peninsula and the beach towns of southwest Michigan are just some of the great destinations to visit in Michigan on road trips for a weekend, a week or more.

Harbor Springs, Charlevoix and Petoskey

These three nearby towns—it's 27 miles from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix, with Petoskey in the middle—each have welcoming downtowns full of boutiques and galleries, plus stunning scenery along Little Traverse Bay, northeast of Traverse City.

Mackinac Island

To be clear, you can't actually drive here—that's one of the charms of this famously car-free island. But you can drive to nearby Mackinaw City or St. Ignace to catch a short ferry ride over. Take carriage tours, explore by bike, visit historic Fort Mackinac and relax on the porch of the Grand Hotel . You can make it a day trip by returning to your ferry stop, or stay in one of the island's many luxury accommodations.

Southwest Michigan Shore

With more than 140 miles of soft sand, almost every beach is the right beach along Michigan's southwest shore. Explore towns like St. Joseph , South Haven , Saugatuck , Holland , Grand Haven and Muskegon for activity-filled state parks, family-friendly attractions and lighthouses all along the way.

Upper Peninsula

You could base a stay in the UP at one of the area's larger towns like Marquette , Sault Ste. Marie or Munising, or plan a road trip that hopscotches across from east to west (the area is about 320 miles wide at a maximum). Expect active adventures at sites like Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park , Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore or Tahquamenon Falls State Park . But you'll find plenty of art, culture and history throughout the UP as well.

Lake Huron Shore

Start your getaway in Alpena or Bay City to explore shipwrecks, lighthouses and Lake Huron beaches on the Sunrise Side of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. In Alpena, see the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center and peer at shipwrecks in Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary ; in Bay City , sail on vintage-looking schooners and relax in the sand at Bay City State Park.

Traverse City

A town of about 16,000, Traverse City sits at the base of Old Mission Peninsula, a long finger that points north into Lake Michigan's Grand Traverse Bay. The lake insulates the land and softens the seasons' rough edges, making this a prime destination for vacationers—as well as fishermen and farmers. Enjoy the bounty of the land at wineries, restaurants and roadside stands; get out on the lake via kayak or sailboat; or head to nearby destinations such as Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for adventures along sand dunes and bluffs.

Grand Rapids

The state's second-largest city, developed around the Grand River, has built a big reputation for culture, cuisine and craft beverages. It's a worthwhile destination on its own, but also less than an hour's drive from southwest Michigan if you're vacationing on the beaches there. See attractions like the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum , Grand Rapids Art Museum and John Ball Zoo —plus any of dozens of breweries in a town that brands itself Beer City U.S.A.

The University of Michigan campus boasts gems such as Matthaei Botanical Gardens and the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History (as well as the University of Michigan stadium, the largest in college football). Explore the city's culinary scene on a food tour or just drop in for a meal at restaurants like MANI Osteria and Bar (artisanal pizza) or one of the legendary Zingerman's family of eateries. The 204-room Graduate Ann Arbor captures Wolverine pride in its decor.

Just over two hours' drive from Detroit and an hour from the beaches of Lake Michigan, Kalamazoo has plenty to entertain the family on a road trip. The Smithsonian Institute-affiliated Air Zoo displays more than 50 aircraft; the Kalamazoo Valley Museum is part science, part history and part children's museum; and at the Kalamazoo Nature Center, 16 trails cover 10 miles of habitats.

Frankenmuth

Visitors see clues to why it's known as Little Bavaria in the town's architecture and dancing wooden figures in the glockenspiel at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and its Castle Shops. Shoppers will also find plenty to like at Frankenmuth River Place Shops and megasize Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland . Toast a day well spent at Frankenmuth Brewery , then settle in at Zehnder's Splash Village Hotel and Water Park or the Bavarian Inn Lodge .

More in Michigan

Check out our guides to other Michigan destinations to help plan your road trips across the state.

Top Things to Do in Detroit

Lansing Trip Guide

Unique Retreats for Overnight Stays in Michigan

Fall Road Trip on Michigan's M-22

Related Articles

If you think you’ve been targeted by a scam, get information and assistance from the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline.

AARP daily Crossword Puzzle

Hotels with AARP discounts

Life Insurance

AARP Dental Insurance Plans

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Labor Day Sale!

Join AARP for just $9 per year with a 5-year membership and get a FREE Gift! 

Get instant access to members-only products, hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine. 

• right_container

Work & Jobs

Social Security

• AARP en Español

• Membership & Benefits
• Members Edition
• AARP Rewards
• AARP Rewards %{points}%

Conditions & Treatments

Drugs & Supplements

Health Care & Coverage

Health Benefits

AARP Hearing Center

Advice on Tinnitus and Hearing Loss

Your Health

What to Know About Vaccines

Brain Health Resources

Tools and Explainers on Brain Health

25 Ways to Get a Flatter Stomach

Scams & Fraud

Personal Finance

Money Benefits

View and Report Scams in Your Area

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide

Free Tax Preparation Assistance

AARP Money Map

Get Your Finances Back on Track

How to Protect What You Collect

Small Business

Age Discrimination

Flexible Work

Freelance Jobs You Can Do From Home

AARP Skills Builder

Online Courses to Boost Your Career

31 Great Ways to Boost Your Career

ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Tips to Enhance Your Job Search

Get More out of Your Benefits

When to Start Taking Social Security

10 Top Social Security FAQs

Social Security Benefits Calculator

Medicare Made Easy

Original vs. Medicare Advantage

Enrollment Guide

Step-by-Step Tool for First-Timers

Prescription Drugs

9 Biggest Changes Under New Rx Law

Medicare FAQs

Quick Answers to Your Top Questions

Care at Home

Financial & Legal

Life Balance

LONG-TERM CARE

​Understanding Basics of LTC Insurance​

State Guides

Assistance and Services in Your Area

Prepare to Care Guides

How to Develop a Caregiving Plan

End of Life

How to Cope With Grief, Loss

Recently Played

Word & Trivia

Atari® & Retro

Members Only

Staying Sharp

Mobile Apps

More About Games

Right Again! Trivia

Right Again! Trivia – Sports

Atari® Video Games

Throwback Thursday Crossword

Travel Tips

Vacation Ideas

Destinations

Travel Benefits

Camping and RV Ideas

Fun Camping and RV Journeys

Exploration

25 Great Ways to Explore

Train Travel

How to Find Great Train Deals

AARP National Park Guide

Travel to Pinnacles in California

Entertainment & Style

Family & Relationships

Personal Tech

Home & Living

Celebrities

Beauty & Style

TV for Grownups

Fall TV Preview

Kevin Costner’s Big Bet

Looking Back

Take Our ’80s Music Quiz

Sex & Dating

7 Dating Dos and 7 Don'ts

Get Happier

Creating Social Connections

Friends & Family

Veterinarians May Use AI to Treat Pets

Home Technology

What's Inside Your Smartphone

Virtual Community Center

Join Free Tech Help Events

Creative Ways to Store Your Pets Gear

Meals to Make in the Microwave

Wearing Shoes Inside: Pros vs. Cons

Driver Safety

Maintenance & Safety

Trends & Technology

AARP Smart Guide

How to Clean Your Car

We Need To Talk

Assess Your Loved One's Driving Skills

AARP Smart Driver Course

Building Resilience in Difficult Times

Tips for Finding Your Calm

Weight Loss After 50 Challenge

Cautionary Tales of Today's Biggest Scams

7 Top Podcasts for Armchair Travelers

Jean Chatzky: ‘Closing the Savings Gap’

Quick Digest of Today's Top News

AARP Top Tips for Navigating Life

Get Moving With Our Workout Series

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

Discover Michigan's Beloved Left Coast on a 4-Day Road Trip

Follow the shore to laid-back beach towns, spectacular sunsets and dune preserves.

Elaine Glusac,

The western edge of Michigan is a summer vacation destination offering often-uncrowded beaches, lovely small towns and some of Michigan's most beautiful scenery. This four-day driving trip includes some highlights in the area, starting from New Buffalo, Michigan, which is only about an hour's drive from Chicago (stop at one of the country's newest national parks on the way, Indiana Dunes) and a little over two hours from Fort Wayne, Indiana. Once you set off, your busiest driving day will be day two, with about 3.5 leisurely hours on the road. End up in Mackinaw City, where you can add to your adventure with a trip to Mackinac Island, where no cars are allowed; leave yours in Mackinaw City and catch a quick ferry.

Day 1: New Buffalo to Saugatuck (90 miles)

Near the border with Indiana, New Buffalo is the gateway to Lake Michigan's “Harbor Country,” a series of beach towns strung together by the Red Arrow Highway and a popular cottage retreat for Chicagoans. Their tastes in food have followed, making the area a great stop for ice cream (Oink's Dutch Treat in New Buffalo), hamburgers (Redamak's, also in New Buffalo, April-October.) and beer (Greenbush Brewing Co. in nearby Sawyer, 10 miles north).

Join AARP for just $9 per year with a 5-year membership and get a FREE Gift!

• How to plan an epic road trip
• Explore Southern Arizona  
• Experience California's Highway 1
• South Carolina adventure
• Scenic Hells Canyon in Oregon
• Washington's San Juan Islands
• Michigan coast
• Art in the Hudson Valley
• Unique Southwest hotels
• Road trip quiz
• Money-saving tips
• 8 travel pros' trip ideas
• Travel news and vacation ideas

In Sawyer, climb the 260-foot sand dunes at Warren Dunes State Park and run back down them to the beach. If that's too busy, head north 10 miles to Grand Mere State Park, with undulating trails through the dune system as well as access to a mile-long beach.

Continue along the Red Arrow to the Blue Star Highway or hop on Interstate 96 roughly 35 miles to South Haven, home of DeGrandchamp Farms, famous for its u-pick blueberry fields in July and August and a good place to get a sense of the fruit-growing bounty of southwest Michigan.

Twenty miles on, sophisticated Saugatuck and its neighbor Douglas comprise Michigan's “Art Coast,” filled with galleries (don't miss local Impressionist James Brandess’ studio and gallery in Saugatuck). For a picnic dinner of charcuterie and local cheese, drive 9 miles southeast to Virtue Cider, which produces cider on a working farm in Fennville.

Where to stay:  For a worthy splurge, overnight at charming Wickwood Inn for pedestrian access to downtown Saugatuck and farm-to-table breakfasts (currently under renovation, the inn reopens in May). Rooms range from about $300 to more than $400 per night, depending on the size. If that’s a bit rich, check out Airbnb or other short-term rental sites, though try to book early (summer is a busy time in these parts). There are also some chain hotels in the area.

Day 2: Saugatuck to Glen Arbor (185 miles)

Take a sunrise hike through the dunes at Saugatuck from Mount Baldhead Park to Oval Beach before hitting the highway (196 to 131) for Holland, 12 miles north. The Dutch-settled town has a popular tulip festival (in May) and a working windmill in Windmill Island Gardens (you can buy the flour it grinds in the gift shop), as well as an 1870-vintage lighthouse known as Big Red at Holland State Park. Pick up picnic fare at DeBoer's Bakery, including Dutch brown bread and double-fried chicken sandwiches.

ARTICLE CONTINUES AFTER ADVERTISEMENT

Take it about 20 miles north to the beach at Grand Haven or the town's 2.5-mile harborside boardwalk, where you can snap photos of its 1839-vintage lighthouse (this is also a great place to rent a bike from Sun Sports Rentals and cycle some of the 20-mile paved Lakeshore Trail that connects Holland and Grand Haven).

Fifteen miles north in Muskegon, drive by the Victorian-era Hackley and Hume historic houses to get a look at the wealth generated a century ago by lumber barons (May-October). Nearby, stroll the Monet Garden, a mini replica of painter Claude Monet's famous garden in Giverny, France, and restock your picnic cooler at the Cheese Lady downtown. Let the guides of Mac Wood's Dune Rides take the wheel over the 2,000-acre dunes of Silver Lake State Park in a 40-minute tour exploring the dune habitat and delivering open-air thrills (May-October).

AARP® Dental Insurance Plan administered by Delta Dental Insurance Company

Dental insurance plans for members and their families

Just north of Manistee, take Motorway 22 to stick to the lake route to catch a picture-perfect sunset as you pull into Glen Arbor for fried smelt and local Vernors sodas at 1934-landmark Art's Tavern.

Where to stay: The Omni Homestead offers a full complement of resort amenities — pool, spa, golf course — as well as a mile of Lake Michigan shore. Rooms start at about $250 a night and up.

Day 3: Glen Arbor to Petoskey (130 miles)

Backtrack six miles to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where the sand dunes rise up to 400 feet above Lake Michigan along 65 miles of shore, for a sunrise dune climb before the sands warm to blistering. The Dune Climb is hearty fun (do try rolling down), but if you're looking for a workout, take the 3.5-mile round-trip Dunes Trail to Lake Michigan.

Reward yourself with all things cherry — this is Michigan's cherry-growing region — from cherry chicken salad to cherry ice cream at the Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor. Continue north on M-22 to explore the Leelanau Peninsula — the divergent pinkie of the mitten that is the shape of Michigan's Lower Peninsula — where cherry orchards mingle with newer vineyards. In Suttons Bay, pick up a bottle of Riesling or Cabernet Franc at Black Star Farms and a wedge of raclette at Leelanau Cheese.

Sixteen miles south, Traverse City is the metropolis of the north, popular for its brewing, arts and outdoor pursuits at the base of Grand Traverse Bay. Indulge your architectural interests by walking among the elegant Victorian homes of the Central Neighborhood and within the sprawling period asylum, now converted into the mixed-use and shop-filled Grand Traverse Commons. The 67-mile drive along U.S. 31 to Petoskey threads the narrows between Lake Michigan and sparkling inland lakes.

Where to stay:  One of the original Great Lakes resorts, the 1899-vintage Stafford's Perry Hotel anchors Petoskey's historic Gaslight District, filled with shops and restaurants, including City Park Grill, hangout of a young Ernest Hemingway. Guest rooms start at about $199 a night.

Day 4: Petoskey to Mackinaw City (70 miles)

Spend a meditative hour searching for Petoskey stones — the unique fossilized state stone — at the downtown break wall on Little Traverse Bay. As you leave Petoskey, you'll drive through a distinctly Victorian cottage settlement known as Bay View, founded in 1875 as a seasonal Methodist community devoted to recreation, education and the arts. Soak in the history on a walk; the community publishes a self-guided walking tour brochure.

Ten miles and Little Traverse Bay separates Petoskey and Harbor Springs, a New England-style resort town filled with shops (take back local preserves from American Spoon). Harbor Springs is the gateway to Motorway 119, a beloved 20-mile lake-skirting road known as the Tunnel of Trees. It delivers you to tiny Cross Village, home of the iconic Legs Inn, a rustic fieldstone lodge filled with driftwood sculptures (June-October). Dine in the lakeview garden on Great Lakes whitefish and Polish classics such as pierogi and kielbasa. Digest over the 30-minute trip north to Wilderness State Park, occupying a windswept peninsula tapering off into Lake Michigan and a great spot to beachcomb.

End your trip at the Straits of Mackinac, about 10 miles east, where lakes Huron and Michigan meet at Mackinaw City, jumping off point for offshore Mackinac Island, where you can't take the car because motor vehicles are forbidden.

Where to stay:  Enjoy the beach at Lake Huron in front of the Hamilton Inn Select Beachfront, where double rooms run from about $80 to $300 a night.

Editor's note: This article was originally published on August 3, 2020. It's been updated to reflect new information. 

Elaine Glusac is a freelance writer in Chicago who regularly contributes to AARP.org and writes the Frugal Traveler column for  The New York Times .

Unlock Access to AARP Members Edition

Already a Member? Login

More on travel

Mountain Adventures Fueled by Great Food

On the Trail of the Mountain Spirits in Southwest New Mexico

Road Trip Planner - How to Prepare for a Long Drive

Or Call: 1-800-675-4318

Enter a valid from location

Enter a valid to location

Enter a valid departing date

Enter a valid returning date

Age of children:

Child under 2 must either sit in laps or in seats:

+ Add Another Flight

Enter a valid destination location

Enter a valid checking in date

Enter a valid checking out date

Occupants of Room

Occupants of Room 1:

Occupants of Room 2:

Occupants of Room 3:

Occupants of Room 4:

Occupants of Room 5:

Occupants of Room 6:

Occupants of Room 7:

Occupants of Room 8:

Enter a valid date

You didn't specify child's age

There are children in room 1 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age for room 1

There are children in room 2 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 2

There are children in room 3 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 3

There are children in room 4 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 4

There are children in room 5 without an adult

You didn't specify child's age in room 5

You have more than 6 people total

Please select a trip duration less than 28 days

There must be at least 1 traveler (age 12+) for each infant in a lap

Enter a valid From location

Enter a valid start date

Please select a Pick Up Time from the list

Enter a valid drop location

Enter a valid drop off date

Please select Drop Off Time from the list

Select a valid to location

Select a month

Enter a valid going to location

Enter a valid from date

Enter a valid to date

Benefits Recommended For You

SAVE MONEY WITH THESE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS

This See-It-All Michigan Road Trip Is Packed With Thrilling, Fun-Filled Family Adventures

By: Author Savannah Walker

Posted on Published: January 3, 2024  - Last updated: January 11, 2024

Looking to jazz up your weekends with a bit of Michigan magic?

Then fasten your seatbelts because we’re about to embark on a thrilling Michigan road trip packed with fun-filled family adventures, thanks to our friend, Randy Olson.

This local lad has crafted a unique road trip map that takes you through both peninsulas, covering 2,098 miles and 43 sites!

He reckons you can do it all in about 40 hours on the road.

So, buckle up, folks, because we’re going to discover the gems of our beloved Mitten state on his epic road trip.

First stop, Alpena.

Now, don’t let the small population of nearly 10,500 fool you.

Alpena is packed with charm, if charm were a utility, they’d have to build extra pipelines!

From shipwreck tours to museums and nature spots, Alpena is a little town with big attractions.

You know, Alpena is like that unexpected dessert you didn’t order but the waiter brings it anyway, and it turns out to be your favorite!

This Midwest gem is a playground for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike.

Here, you can kayak on crystal clear waters by day, stargaze by night, and who knows, maybe even spot a shipwreck or two.

If you’re bringing the kids, wait till they get a load of the dinosaur garden.

Alpena is an all-ages delight, just waiting for you to unwrap it.

Next, we roll into Ann Arbor .

Sure, it’s home to about 114,000 people, but it’s got a small-town vibe that’s as cozy as grandma’s quilt.

And the landmarks?

You’re in for a fairy-sized surprise there!

Bay City , here we come!

They’ve been partying since the 1830s.

This vibrant community of 35,000 is known for its festivals, and did I mention it’s the hometown of a certain star named Madonna?

In Cadillac, you’ll find more than 10,000 friendly faces and a whole lot of trees, hence the nickname Tree City, USA.

It’s a leafy wonderland full of historic landmarks and great places to dine.

Detroit , the heart of Michigan, comes up next.

With its bustling nightlife, iconic auto industry, and rich history, the city is a cultural smorgasbord for its 670,000 residents and visitors alike.

Grand Rapids

We then swing by Grand Rapids , a delightful city that’s brimming with charm.

With around 200,000 residents and landmarks like the Gerald R. Ford Museum, it’s a must-visit on any Michigan tour.

Then, it’s off to Holland , a quaint community of 33,000 residents.

The Dutch influence here is as thick as a stack of pancakes and just as delightful!

And don’t forget to pack a healthy appetite!

You see, Holland is a haven for food lovers.

With its Dutch-inspired bakeries, you’ll find yourself in carbohydrate heaven.

Related : Michigan Family Vacations

Related : Places to Visit in Michigan

Related : Travel Guide for Michigan

And don’t even get me started on the cheese—it’s as if the cows here are on a first-name basis with dairy royalty.

This charming town is perfect for a family getaway—it’s like a slice of the Netherlands, but without the long-haul flight!

Jackson, named after a former president, is next on the list.

This city of 33,500 is famously known as the birthplace of the Republican party and the site of the state’s first prison.

They also have a roller rink that locals rave about.

Kalamazoo , apart from having a name that’s fun to say, is a city with a rich indigenous history.

This vibrant community of 74,000 is the perfect spot to kick back and soak in the local culture.

Then, we head to Lansing, the state capital.

This unique city is rich in culture and has some intriguing stories to tell, especially about the Lake Lansing Amusement Park, which closed in the 1970s.

Ludington , a picturesque town of around 8,000 locals, is next.

Home to the Ludington State Park and Amber Elk Ranch, it’s a feast for the eyes.

Now, if you want an authentic Michigan experience, Mackinac Island is the place to be.

With its charming architecture and no car ordinance, it’s a delightful step back in time.

Manistique, home to around 3,100 residents, is a gem on the shore of Lake Michigan.

Known as “The Emerald City,” this place is a tourist’s dream.

Muskegon, one of the largest cities in western Michigan, is next.

Enchanting with its natural beauty, this city of 38,500 is magical in the winter months.

Petoskey is a small community of 5,700 residents.

It’s known for its state park and Petoskey stones, fascinating fossils that are a real treat for nature lovers.

Port Sanilac

Next, we travel to Port Sanilac, a charming village of just over 600.

The Port Sanilac lighthouse and underwater shipwreck preserve are just some of the landmarks that make this place special.

Sault Saint Marie

Sault Saint Marie, the oldest town in Michigan, is home to a US population of just over 14,000.

But don’t forget to wave to the 73,368 locals on the Canadian side!

South Haven

South Haven is home to fewer than 4,500 residents.

It’s known for its picturesque sailboat tours and the South Haven Lighthouse.

Traverse City

And our final stop, Traverse City , home to nearly 15,000 residents and a whole lot of tart cherries.

Known as The Cherry Capital of the World, this city is a foodie’s paradise.

So, there you have it, folks!

The ultimate road trip through Michigan, perfect for any season.

For the full lowdown of this epic road trip, check out Ronald Olson’s itinerary .

Now, who’s ready to get out there and explore?

And hey, has anyone attempted this trip before?

16 Must-Hit Stops for a Michigan Road Trip

From the lakes to the breweries to the trails..

View 16 places on map

Few states boast the combo of accessible, vast wilderness and modern cities that Michigan does. The Great Lakes State, as Michiganders lovingly call it, is best explored from its seemingly endless shores: 3,288 miles worth of winding roads overlooking these world wonders of the glacial age. Whether you take this ultimate Michigan road trip by bike, car, (or even boat), you will surely be welcomed by humble, big-hearted people delighted to show you the best of our state along the way. We simply ask that you tip your waitstaff, wear a mask, and for gahdssake’s, don’t litter.

Warren Dunes State Park

Starting in lower southwest Michigan, just 20 minutes north of the Indiana border and following Lake Michigan, you’ll start to witness the majesty of this amazing state. One of its greatest claims to fame is beer. Yep. Michigan has awesome beer. We’re snobby (but not like California snobby) about it. Get your first sudsy fix at Greenbush Brewing , grab a snack and maybe a growler to go (locals love the Party Wolf IPA) and head over to Warren Dunes , a 1,952-acre park with 260-foot sand dunes, for a dip in Lake Michigan and a stunning view of the setting sun.

Bell's Brewery

Heading to the north and inland, Kalamazoo is not to be missed. It’s a fun, medium-sized city filled with great food and entertainment options, thanks in large part to Western Michigan University ’s presence. A visit to Kalamazoo wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Bell’s Brewery , one of Michigan’s oldest, and home to delicious snacks and live music. It’s worth the detour.

Holland State Park

From Kalamazoo, work your way up to Holland and its stunning lakefront Holland State Park , which while not exactly remote, allows you to stock up on your people fix before heading further north. Plus, “Big Red,” AKA the iconic red lighthouse on the sandy lakefront beach here, is the perfect backdrop for a pic.

Grand River Walkway

Turn inland slightly to Grand Rapids, a town that is adored for its dining and beer culture as well as its laid-back pace, yet with all the amenities of a big city. Drop a kayak in the Grand River, which is especially pretty at night with the city lights glimmering over the water. 

Silver Lake State Park

On your way to Ludington, along the lake, don’t miss the chance to stop at one of Michigan’s most beloved “get wild” destinations: Silver Lake State Park ’s sand dunes. With more than 3,000 acres along more than 4 miles of lakefront, this is where folks bring their big trucks and do big truck things. So, if you're into that, go for it. If you’re not, this spot is still remarkable.

Crystal River

It’s hard to say if the coasts get more beautiful as you go further north, or if the lakes just become more of a part of you. Either way, as you meander up toward the Leelanau Peninsula, you’ll pass a number of rivers. A favorite is Crystal River, an absolutely divine stretch of — as the name suggests — diamond-bright waters shimmying their way from Big Glen Lake into Lake Michigan . Experience the river the best way possible, by being in it or on it. Crystal River Outfitters offers 2-3 hour kayak trips, which are stunning during any season. (Yes, winter kayaking. It’s a thing here.)

Traveling northward, you’ll come upon Leland, a charming and quaint fishing town where you can see the Manitou Islands (and even ferry over for the day or to camp in the wilderness) from the centuries-old buildings that house shops and restaurants, known as Fishtown. Grab a burger at the Bluebird Restaurant & Tavern , a favorite locals’ haunt with great beers and fresh-caught fish and chips.

The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

Cruise the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula all the way north to hike at Leelanau State Park and down to Traverse City, one of Northern Michigan’s more “bustling” towns. There are great eats and entertainment in TC, not to mention it’s one of the most beautiful waterfront towns in the US. If you’re up for it, enjoy the fact that Grand Traverse Bay is warmer than Lake Michigan and take a dip. Shopping at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a unique experience, with its labyrinth of hallways that make up what was formerly a mental institution. Local Michigan products and also places to snack and grab a beverage throughout the Commons make it a fun way to spend a few hours or the whole day.

Wilderness State Park

Heading up the winding coast toward Wilderness State Park, you’ll pass through some of Michigan’s most beautiful scenery. Lakes, trees, more lakes, more trees, rivers. Before heading off-grid into the park, get some classic Polish cuisine at Legs Inn in Cross Village. There are cabins along the lake right there to rent for the night if you need a place to rest. Wilderness State Park itself is known for its 26 miles of shoreline, dunes, and wetlands, with accessible hiking trails and some that are more rustic. Camping here is a delight and the stars are so bright that they even built a dark sky park here called Headlands , which boasts incredible night skygazing due to the limited light pollution in the area.

Tahquamenon Falls

The vacant and forest-lined roads of the Upper Peninsula call you up toward Tahquamenon Falls , with a 50-foot drop and up to 50,000 gallons per second of cedar-tinted water pouring over the 200-foot wide falls. Tahquamenon stems from an Ojibwe word, the first peoples of this region, meaning “dark berry” — perhaps in honor of the wild berries that grow abundantly around here in the summertime.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

From the majestic falls, head to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for hiking or swimming at Miner’s Beach. Here you’ll meet Lake Superior, the greatest of the Great Lakes. Along the vibrantly colored sandstone cliffs, you can rent a kayak or take a glass-bottom boat tour that even crosses over shipwrecks, of which there are many remnants in the lakes. Before heading out, return to civilization in Marquette, arguably the UP’s hot spot, and grab a cup of coffee at Dead River Coffee Roasters downtown on the marina. Marquette is a delight to walk around, taking in what is at once a vibrant and tranquil town. Grab a bite to eat at the historic Vierling Restaurant & Marquette Harbor Brewery and enjoy the fresh breezes off Lake Superior.

Quincy Mine

If you’re seeking a peninsula within a peninsula, Keweenaw must be one of the most stunning on Earth. Jutting into the frigid waters of Lake Superior, this is the former home of copper mines that brought more people to northern Michigan at one point than the gold rush did to California. All that hustle is gone now, and places like Quincy Mine remain as historical markers in an otherwise mostly vacant territory. Once you’ve taken in the sites there, stop at Offshore Fish & Chips for fresh Lake Superior whitefish before making your way to the tip of the peninsula, home of beautiful Copper Harbor. There you can take a walk at Hunter’s Point , admiring the agate-lined shore of the great lake and watch the sunset from the top of Brockway Mountain Drive .

Lake of the Clouds

Make your way to the increasingly hilly region of the western UP, home to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park . Here, you’ll find everything from moose, bear, and great hiking to stunning hidden rivers and lakes, a ski run, and even a music festival . At the park, make sure you visit Lake of the Clouds, described in 1850 by scientist J.W. Foster as such: “A remarkable gorge lies ... about two miles south of Lake Superior, and in that distance the ground rises about 1,000 feet. Suddenly the traveler finds himself on the brink of a precipice 500 feet deep, at the base of which lies a small lake, so sheltered and hemmed in by the surrounding mountains that the winds barely ruffle its surface.” It looks just as heavenly as it sounds, promise.

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Alpena is one of northern Michigan’s biggest towns, on the sunrise side of the state. But what’s beneath the surface is what’s truly remarkable about this town. Here, you’ll find Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary , the resting place of more than 100 shipwrecks on Lake Huron. You can take a glass-bottom boat tour or rent a paddle board and glide over the smooth waters where the ruins lie. Brave souls even snorkel and scuba dive here, truly giving a new dimension to Great Lakes travel.

Port Crescent State Park

Whether you’re into angling or paddling, make sure to grab some fresh-made food and cold-brewed coffee at Sunrise Kava Café in downtown Oscoda as you make your way south toward what residents of Michigan (aka, The Mitten) affectionately refer to as “The Thumb.” Here, you can enjoy calm waters at Port Crescent State Park , a great spot for swimming, hiking, bird-watching, and stargazing at the Port Crescent Dark Sky Preserve . In Port Austin, you’ll find great kayaking on the big lake. Try going with Port Austin Kayak for the trip to Turnip Rock , too.

Detroit Institute of Arts

Now you’re close to metro Detroit, the home of most of Michigan’s population and also tremendous cultural offerings and things to do. From the vast collection of modern, traditional, and anthropological works at the Detroit Institute of Arts ; to the vividly colorful street art and relatively new biking, blading, walking, etc., area of the Dequindre Cut ; to the shops and farmers market at Eastern Market ; downtown Detroit has no shortage of entertainment. For food, try local favorite Foran’s Grand Trunk Pub . It’s just down the street from beautiful Hart Plaza , which overlooks Windsor, Ontario’s remarkable waterfront, where people of all walks of life enjoy the flow of the Detroit River.

10 Of The Best Road Trips You Can Take In Michigan

Explore ten exciting road trips in Michigan, each offering unique experiences and destinations.

Written by  

Road trips are a blast no matter where you’re headed, but there’s something undeniably special about exploring your own backyard. The next time you’ve got an urge to hit the road, consider checking out one of these awesome trips throughout the Great Lakes State. Here are 10 of the best road trips in Michigan to take. Get those playlists and road trip snacks ready, because of all the fun stuff to do this summer in Michigan , these might just take the whole cake!

This trip will lead you through all of Michigan’s Most Abandoned Places, everything from a spooky psychiatric facility that’s long abandoned to Detroit’s famous Michigan Central Station. While it’s fun to observe these decaying structures from outside, please remember that trespassing is against the law — so enter at your own risk.

Spread this trip out over a weekend to make sure you have time to explore and admire each and every lighthouse on this dreamy Michigan lighthouse road trip . Marvel at the bright beauty of Big Red at Holland State Park and snap pictures of the gorgeous lighthouse at Sturgeon Point. This is one of the best road trips in Michigan that will utterly charm you.

Take a look at this video of Big Red Lighthouse by @PatmanDroneography :

We all know that Michigan is home to some truly amazing waterfalls, so why not do this amazing Michigan waterfalls road trip . When you follow this route, you’ll have a chance to explore the absolute best of the best. From Bond Falls to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, you’ll be blown away by the elegant yet fierce beauty of these natural wonders on this Michigan road trip itinerary.

Are you in the mood to be spooked? No matter what time of year, visiting these haunted spots on this spooky haunted Michigan tour in the Great Lakes State will certainly send shivers down your spine. Look out for ghosts at the Felt Mansion and head out at night for a chance to see the mysterious Paulding Light. This adventure is not for the faint of heart.

Take a look at this video by @user-ic8ys8gl8z :

Ready to explore the best that Michigan has to offer in the way of natural beauty? It would take ages to see every gorgeous attraction in our state, but this Michigan natural wonders road trip will give you a solid overview. Take a boat tour at Pictured Rocks, peruse Ann Arbor’s Nichols Arboretum, or run down the dunes at Sleeping Bear.

If you’re charmed by quaint covered bridges, the Covered Bridge Trail is the perfect trip for you. From Frankenmuth’s Holz-Brucke Bridge to the Pierce Stocking Covered Bridge at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan is home to some of the country’s most delightful bridges — and you’ll want to see them for yourself.

This sunrise coast road trip follows the Huron Shores Heritage Route, which covers 200 miles of shoreline along US-23. Stop in and stay a while at each town along the way — from Standish to Mackinaw City. The east coast of Michigan is sometimes forgotten in favor of the Lake Michigan shore, so take time out to appreciate the Mitten State’s other amazing coastline.

What could be more delightful than a tour of Michigan’s most picturesque small towns ? We’ve got plenty of them, and they’re just waiting to be explored. Check out a variety of art galleries in Saugatuck, experience Bavarian charm in Frankenmuth, or venture northward to St. Ignace.

History buffs and urban explorers will enjoy this Michigan ghost towns road trip , which takes drivers through a variety of abandoned towns that once played key roles in the copper industry during the 19th century. From Dollar Bay to Mandan, this ghost town tour will awake your inner historian and leave you with an eerie feeling.

Set aside three days for this mouthwateringly epic Michigan restaurant road trip , which will take you to some of Michigan’s most incredible eateries. No matter what type of cuisine you prefer, there’s something for you on this list — and once you check out these incredible restaurants, you’ll certainly be back for seconds. It's one of the most delicious Michigan road trips you can take.

So, there you have it: a few of the very best road trips in Michigan to embark on in the upcoming year. All you need now is a loved one to fill the passenger seat, a map, and a full tank of gas (or a full EV charge). Adventure awaits you - now go explore! Unsure of what to bring along to munch on? Check out our handy road trip snack packing list . You'll never know how you fared without it.

Are you planning on taking any of these Michigan road trips any time soon? Let us know in the comments! If you find yourself needing more adventures, check out some of the best things to do in Michigan in the summer .

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news.

• Northern California
• Southern California
• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia

Thank you for subscribing!

Discover 5 Of Michigan’s Most Iconic Views On This Epic 4-Hour Road Trip

Since I've moved up to the Mitten State, many folks have told me that I'm not a real Michigander until I visit the Upper Peninsula. There are so many things to see in the "hand" portion of the state that I haven't had a chance to get up there yet!

So, I'm listening to them and creating myself an incredible road trip that showcases some of the most iconic views Michigan has to offer. Let me know if there are any other incredible Upper Peninsula views I should add!

1. Log Slide Scenic Overlook - Grand Marais, Michigan

We're starting this road trip off easy - with Log Slide Scenic Overlook near Grand Marais. This is a short, easy hike - as long as you stop at the overlook. Other hikers report that the trip down the dunes to the beach isn't bad, but the climb back up can be a struggle.

We're here for the incredible Michigan views, though, so we're staying at the top of what used to be an actual slide used in the mining industry. While no remnants of the slide remain, visitors can still learn the history of the area via displays along the trail.

The panoramic views at the first stop on our road trip are breathtaking. From this vantage point, visitors can see the Au Sable Lighthouse to the West. If you look East, you'll see the Grand Sable Dunes.

2. Upper Overlook - Munising, Michigan

No matter where you look at each stop on this epic 4-hour road trip, the views are sure to be some of the best you've seen in your life. At Upper Outlook in Munising, you can take in one of the most iconic views in Michigan: Miners Castle.

Another easy hike that you'll want to have your camera ready for, the Lake Superior views at this incredibly scenic stop are simply amazing. Luckily, there are two overlooks at this spot, providing two different, but equally interesting views.

At the upper overlook, you'll be greeted with a picturesque view over the lake to the Miners Castle formation. The other overlook takes you a bit more up close and personal with the famous rock formation, making it easy to snap some lesser-seen photos.

3. Thomas Rock Scenic Overlook - Big Bay, Michigan

Our next stop on this road trip filled with iconic Michigan views is Thomas Rock Overlook. This Upper Peninsula trail is an easy hike, with lots of signs identifying flowers and animals you might see on your journey.

This hidden gem of a scenic view is perfect for those who might have trouble navigating more challenging trails. It's easy, well-marked, with no stairs - only gentle inclines. Bonus: there are lots of benches along the way should anyone in your group need a little rest!

And you'll want to catch your breath before taking in the views from this Upper Peninsula perch, because they will literally take your breath away, particularly in the fall. The highlight of this stop is the stunning view of the Big Bay Point Lighthouse to the North.

4. Bears Den Overlook - Watton, Michigan

Some folks say the walk to Bears Den Overlook is so easy it's "not even a trail at all", making it a perfect entry onto my "easy hike/incredible view" road trip through the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

In addition to wonderful photo opportunities, Bears Den Overlook near Watton, Michigan is also an excellent spot for bird watching. Before moving to Michigan, I couldn't tell you a European Starling from a Chimney Swift, but since living here birding has become one of my favorite pastimes.

The view from this overlook is tree-heavy, looking over Sturgeon Gorge. As you would expect, this is another spot, like most Michigan overlooks, that visitors claim is absolutely gorgeous when the leaves are changing colors in the fall.

5. Lake of the Clouds Overlook - Ontonagon, Michigan

The final stop on this road trip focusing on Michigan's stellar views is the one people tell me about most often: Lake of the Clouds Overlook in Ontonagon, Michigan. Located in the Porcupine Mountains, it is one of the most photographed things in the whole Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

One of the things I love most about this stop is that it is accessible to those using a cane or walker. The accessible trail is longer, but not as steep as the other one.

This is a must-stop on your Upper Peninsula road trip - the views are stunning year-round. Yes, even when the Lake of the Clouds is frozen over - take a look at the photo above!

Well, I am now getting all excited for my sometime-in-the-near-future road trip to see all these iconic views in Michigan. One thing that I did note in all the reviews of these fabulous stops is that they are buggy in the spring and summer months. So I'll be sure to pack a bug net and all kinds of bug spray for protection.

If you take this road trip through the Upper Peninsula, I'd love to hear about your experience. It'll help me better plan my future trip! Tell me about it in the comments!

This Rural Road Trip Will Lead You To Some Of The Best Countryside Hidden Gems In Michigan

Explore Michigan's countryside with a family-friendly rural road trip featuring unique attractions.

Seeking a quiet escape that still provides plenty of fun for the whole family? You might be interested in our rural road trip in Michigan. This route might not highlight our state’s most bustling cities or most famous attractions, but it offers something especially wonderful: the chance to explore the countryside while spending quality time with the people you love. When you’re ready for a laid-back journey, hop in the car and embark on one of the most delightful road trips in Michigan.

Of course, points of interest and starting navigation will vary based on where you live and how much time you have, so make necessary changes by checking out our customizable map of the route. If you’re following our route precisely, we recommend splitting your travel time into at least two days to fully appreciate every attraction on the list.

1. Blake's Big Apple

You might be familiar with Blake's Orchard and Cider Mill in the tiny town of Armada, but Blake's Big Apple is another worthwhile stop – and it’s loaded with quirky charms. Aptly named for the giant apple that sits atop the building, this spot offers everything from U-Pick options on a seasonal basis to market purchases for those who just want to take home some fresh cider, donuts, and other treats. During the Halloween season, the Big Apple is also home to a variety of spooky events, so time your visit accordingly to one of the best country towns in MI.

2. Wilderness Trails Zoo

Next, make your way to Birch Run to mingle with a variety of adorable animals. You don’t have to visit one of Michigan’s larger zoos to appreciate interactions with all sorts of creatures, and this lesser-known spot is proof. There are 56 acres to explore at Wilderness Trails Zoo , where you’ll encounter everything from zebras to camels to tigers and lions. No matter your age, this spot is sure to capture your imagination and add a dose of wild fun to your rural road trip through Michigan.

3. Rosebush Farm Market

Whether you’re hoping to pick up some flowers to spruce up your home, snagging some fresh eats for the road, or simply seeking a quiet stop that promises small-town friendliness, Rosebush Farm Market will delight you. Tucked away along North Mission Road in Rosebush, this is a low-key stop along your rural journey through the state. Gardeners and foodies alike will find treasure here, while others will appreciate the laid-back atmosphere and a chance to stretch their legs.

4. Waldeck Island Nature Preserve

As you continue on the road, you might find yourself longing for a stroll or an opportunity to connect further with the great outdoors. This is where Waldeck Island Nature Preserve comes in! This 11-mile wonderland is decidedly small and underrated when compared to many of Michigan’s other natural areas, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth checking out. Waldeck Island features peaceful trails for adventuring in every season, not to mention access to Stone Ledge Lake. The trails here are appropriate for hikers of all levels, so you can bring along the kids without a care.

5. Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm and Boutique

Whether you’re a shopaholic or an animal lover (or both!), you’ll enjoy visiting Crystal Lake Alpaca Farm and Boutique. This fascinating farm and shop offers the chance to purchase high-quality products made from incredibly soft alpaca wool – if you’re not careful, you might leave with a pile of clothing, scarves, gifts for friends, and so much more. Of course, you can opt out of shopping and simply check out the alpacas and other creatures who call the farm home, but we think you should treat yourself to a sweater or two.

6. Garden Cafe at Pine Hill Nursery

Feeling hungry after all that driving? Venture to the Garden Cafe in Kewadin for an incredibly unique and serene dining experience. This lovely eatery is tucked away within Pine Hill Nursery, so you can double up your garden center visit with a bite to eat. Many of the food served at the cafe is grown on site, so there’s no doubt you’ll enjoy the freshest ingredients around. From sandwiches to wraps to baked goods, you’ll find lots to enjoy as you bask in the calming, nature-centric atmosphere.

7. The House on the Hill Bed and Breakfast

If you’re searching for a dreamy place to rest along your trip to small towns in MI, The House on the Hill in Ellsworth is a natural next stop. There are seven rooms within this countryside cottage, each loaded with charm and warmth. This is your opportunity to unwind in one of Michigan’s most stunning regions and explore more than 50 acres of enchanting land. From hiking trails to vineyards to nearby beaches, there’s so much waiting to be unearthed in convenient proximity to this countryside treasure.

Now that you’ve checked out our rural road trip in MI, you’ve undoubtedly got some inspiration for your next outing. I know that every road trip is a little different, so share your own recommendations and ideas with us by leaving a comment. Or, if you’d like to suggest an attraction for inclusion in a future piece, be sure to complete our official nomination form .

Searching for even more adventure in our awesome state? Be sure to read about this M-22 towns road trip through Michigan and don't forget to pack epic road trip snacks !

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/michigan/m22-towns-road-trip-mi/

All Stories

The stunning top-secret lake in idaho nobody’s ever heard of.

Gem Lake in Idaho's panhandle is a place where you can experience peace and quiet. Just be ready for the challenging hike to reach this special spot.

The Completely Free Botanical Garden Hiding in North Carolina Is a Must-Visit

The admission-free North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill is worthy of a day trip, no matter how long the drive.

The Stunning Top-Secret Hiking Trail in West Virginia Nobody’s Ever Heard Of

Uncover West Virginia’s hidden gem, the Hawk’s Nest Rail Trail—an easy hike with waterfalls, historic bridges, and stunning scenery. Perfect for all ages!

Michigan’s New Glampground Getaway, The Woods, Is Truly One-Of-A-Kind

This brand new luxury campground tucked away in the woods promises to be one of the best glampgrounds in Michigan. Come stay a while!

This Historic Old Tavern In Indiana Has Served Hoosiers Since 1889

If you're curious about all the oldest restaurants in Indiana, you can't miss a visit to Syd's. Since 1889, this old spot's reigned king.

• Grand Rapids/Muskegon
• Saginaw/Bay City
• All Michigan

13 easy out-of-state road trips Michiganders should take this summer

• Updated: Mar. 01, 2021, 9:27 a.m.
• | Published: Mar. 30, 2018, 8:20 a.m.
• Jessica Shepherd | [email protected]

Photo by Cory Morse | MLive.com

No, it isn't summer yet, but why not start planning some day trips and weekend retreats? If nothing else, it's nice to daydream.

Not every summer vacation has to be complicated. You could just get in the car and drive a few hours to an out-of-state destination full of summer fun. Who doesn't love a road trip?

Here are 13 ideas for easy trips to take this summer (or maybe this spring, if you're feeling antsy).

Cedar Point

Where : 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, Ohio

Overview : Cedar Point is the ultimate theme park for those who love rollercoasters. You can also see some shows and enjoy the beach but Cedar Point is most appreciated by the true thrill-seeker.

Highlights :  When Steel Vengeance opens on May 5, 2018, it's going to be the tallest, fastest and longest steel/wood hybrid coaster in the world. Check out what else is new at Cedar Point this year .

Travel time from Ann Arbor : Roughly 2 hours

More info :  cedarpoint.com

Stratford Festival

Where : Stratford, Ontario, Canada

Overview : This renowned festival began in the 1950s as a way to celebrate the works of William Shakespeare. Over the years, the festival has expanded to include other theatrical works alongside the classic Shakespeare plays.

Highlights : This year, shows include Shakespeare's "The Tempest" and "Julius Caesar," as well as other offerings like "The Music Man" and "The Rocky Horror Picture Show."

Travel time from Port Huron : Less than 2 hours

More info :  stratfordfestival.ca

Shipshewana, Indiana

Overview : The town, just south of the Michigan border, is rich with Amish and Mennonite culture and is a hit with tourists.

Highlights : Don't forget to bring your wallet because Shipshewana is known for its auctions, shops and flea market. If you want to give your pocketbook a break, check out the area's theaters, museums and parks.

Travel time from Kalamazoo : Roughly an hour

More info :  shipshewana.com

Photo by Joel Bissell | MLive.com

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

How to get there : Your car and then a huge ferry that lets you cross the beautiful body of water known as Lake Michigan

Overview : Take a trip to Milwaukee. Yeah, you could drive around Lake Michigan to get there but wouldn't it be more fun to drive your car onto a ferry and take a break from road travel while you enjoy the view?

Highlights : The ferry ride is a highlight but there is also plenty to look forward to once it is over. Milwaukee offers culture, nightlife, sporting events and more.

Travel time from Muskegon : The ferry ride from Muskegon to Milwaukee is two-and-a-half hours

More info :  lake-express.com

Photo by Mickey Ciokajlo | MLive.com

3 Floyds Brewing Co.

Where : 9750 Indiana Parkway, Munster, Indiana 46321

Overview : Do you consider yourself a beer aficionado? Have you tried the offerings of 3 Floyds? All the offerings? You had better get to Munster fast, if your answer is "no."

Highlights : The ultimate highlight is what many dub as the world's most wanted beer -- 3 Floyds Dark Lord Russian Imperial Stout. May 19 is Dark Lord Day at the brewery. It is the only day of the year that the special stout is available and you have to buy a ticket to get it.

Travel time from Battle Creek : A little more than 2 hours

More info :  3floyds.com

Photo by Jessica Shepherd | MLive.com

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Overview : There are so many amazing things going on in Pittsburgh. Uniquely located at the convergence of three rivers, Pittsburgh is a low maintenance big city. Wear a flannel and drink an Iron City straight from the can. You don't need to sacrifice comfort here.

Highlights : The views are amazing and getting to the top of the hill is half the fun. If you head to Pittsburgh, you have to take a ride up Mount Washington on the Duquesne Incline or the Monongahela Incline. Once at the top, grab a drink or a bite from an eatery overlooking the city.

Distance from Detroit : Nearly 4-and-a-half hours

More info :  duquesneincline.org

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Where : 4790 West 16th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46222

Overview : Whether watching a race, visiting the museum or taking your turn driving around the track, this is the place for any racing fan.

Highlights : Indianapolis 500, Brickyard Vintage Racing Invitational, Grand Prix and more

Travel time from Grand Rapids : Roughly 4 hours

More info :  indianapolismotorspeedway.com

Wisconsin Dells

Where : Central Wisconsin

Overview : This is the ultimate place to take a family. That is, if your family likes to have fun.

Highlights : The waterparks are the big highlight, considering Wisconsin Dells calls itself the "Waterpark Capital of the World." There are also other amusement parks and gaming to keep the family entertained.

Travel time from Kalamazoo : Roughly 4-and-a-half hours

More info :  wisdells.com

Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Where : South Bass Island, Ohio

Overview : Put-in-Bay is a destination for those who like to let loose. When the weather is warm, area residents flock to the outdoor party destination.

Highlights : The world's longest bar, beautiful water, fellow party animals and lots and lots of golf carts

Distance from Flint : Roughly 2-and-a-half hours by car to Port Clinton, plus a short ferry ride

More info :  visitputinbay.org

The Bruce Grey Simcoe Region

Where : Ontario, Canada

Overview : A large region of Ontario that offers the best of the great outdoors.

Highlights : Kayaking, fishing, golfing, hiking, horse riding, cycling, camping, swimming, waterfalls and so much more

Distance from Port Huron : Between 2 and 4 hours, depending on which part of the region you visit

More info :  brucegreysimcoe.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ℱᎯᏆℐℳᎯ 🌻 (@pinay71)

Hocking Hills State Park

Where : About 50 miles southeast of Columbus, Ohio

Overview : You can explore the caves, gorges, waterfalls and other natural wonders by traveling to this state park nestled in southeast Ohio.

Highlights : Hiking, fishing, canoe rides, horseback riding, ziplining, rock climbing and more

Travel time from Ann Arbor : Roughly 4 hours

More info :  hockinghills.com

Photo by Mark Tower | MLive.com

Niagara Falls

Where : In Niagara Falls, New York and Niagara Falls, Ontario

Overview : This is a popular spot for honeymooners and other couples. It is just a romantic place.

Highlights : The falls are the big highlight, obviously. Take the Maid of the Mist boat tour to get a closer look.

Distance from Port Huron : Roughly 3 hours

More info :  niagara-usa.com

Chicago! Chi Town! The Windy City!

Where : You know where it is.

Overview : It's the third largest city in the U.S. There is so much to do. Whether you go alone, bring your friends, you family or your significant other, you will find plenty of entertainment.

Highlights : Do it all! Eat the pizza, visit Wrigleyville, tour the Art Institute of Chicago, take your picture at Cloud Gate (also known as the bean), see a show at Second City, say "hello" to the animals at Shedd Aquarium. Seriously, do everything you can do in Chicago. DO. IT. ALL.

Distance from Battle Creek : Less than 3 hours

More info :  choosechicago.com

Rather stay in Michigan?

The most beautiful place in each of Michigan's 83 counties

One adorable, quirky shop to visit in each Michigan county

The most unusual place in each of Michigan’s 83 counties

• | Privacy Policy
• | User Agreement

Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement , (updated 8/1/2024) and acknowledgement of our Privacy Policy , and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (updated 7/1/2024).

© 2024 Advance Local Media LLC. All rights reserved ( About Us ). The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local.

Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site.

YouTube's privacy policy is available here and YouTube's terms of service is available here .

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best

Homeschool mom shares how to turn a road trip into an epic field trip

September 5, 2024 // By Jessica Cole

By Jessica Cole September 5, 2024

As a homeschool mom, one thing I enjoy about homeschooling my kid s is the flexibility to travel at almost any time of the year. This past spring, our family took advantage of this by traveling to Austin, Texas, to view the most recent total solar eclipse.

Rather than pay airfare for seven family members, we chose to drive to Texas from our home near Raleigh, North Carolina. Facing 20-plus hours in the car, I decided to make our drive part of the experience, transforming our family road trip into one giant field trip!

We stopped at fun and educational places — museums, tourist attractions, and the like. I learned many lessons along the way. If you're planning a family road trip, here's how to turn it into a memorable field trip.

Advertisement Advertisement

Choose a road trip route that offers variety

Once you identify your ultimate destination (we spent three days in Austin), you'll need to decide on your route to get there. For us, there were three recommended routes with a few hours' difference among them. We decided not to take the most direct route. Instead, we went slightly north to North Carolina and then through Tennessee and Arkansas before arriving in Texas. On the way back, we passed through Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. This way, we were able to stop at more attractions and experience a greater variety of environments — in climate, landscape, wildlife, and culture.

Tie planned stops to family and educational interests

Once I had the general route mapped out, I began searching for things to do and see in each state. First, I considered which attractions hit on areas of interest for members of our family or tied in with something the kids were learning in school. Next, I looked at how far out of the way we would have to drive to reach those points of interest. As a final measure, I considered how long a typical visit would take and made sure the attraction would be open at our desired date and time.

Read several reviews before booking hotels

I booked our hotels through a popular travel site, heavily relying on their star-rating system. As it turns out, I probably should have checked the reviews in more detail and maybe checked reviews from a few different sources. Most of the hotels were a hit, but one turned out to be a real miss.

Consider waiting to make reservations at attractions

While it was helpful to reserve hotels in advance, I didn't reserve tickets to most of the museums and other attractions until the day of our visit. This allowed us some flexibility to trade one stop for an alternative at the last minute.

On the other hand, we would've never gotten into one particular museum if I hadn't made an earlier reservation, so it's important to check each destination for any likelihood of selling out.

Figure out parking ahead of time

Parking in big cities can be challenging, but modern technology makes things easier. Besides looking on a location's website for parking suggestions, you can check your map app for nearby lots. I found Google Maps street view to be especially helpful in determining which lots would work best for us. Some attractions and even cities (street parking) will allow you to reserve parking spots in advance online.

Consider renting a van for your road trip

With five growing kids, my husband and I had been toying with the idea of trading in our minivan for a 12-passenger. Partly with this trip in mind, we took the plunge. The gas mileage isn't great, but the extra room for packing and spreading out is amazing!

Of course, buying a van isn't necessary for most, but it might be worth your money to rent one for a longer road trip.

Pack a suitcase for each day, not each person

When stopping at multiple hotels, packing hacks can simplify the process. Rather than dragging out seven individual suitcases every night, the kids and I pre-picked and packed our outfits into one suitcase for each day, rather than for each person. We then packed bathroom supplies and an extra outfit or two in the kids' backpacks. It made loading and unloading so much easier.

Also, it wouldn't hurt to bring a few dollars' worth of quarters for coin-operated laundry, as I learned when my preschooler accidentally dirtied his favorite blanket!

Factor in time zone changes when planning your road trip

If crossing several states on a fairly tight itinerary, don't forget that you may cross time zones. Overlooking this fact worked in our favor on our way westward, but it led to one late arrival time on a planned activity as we headed back east.

Pack food and save money on dining out

We have several food sensitivities in our family and we rarely eat out, so we packed a ton of food. We bought a good quality cooler and brought a second, more basic one for backup. We refreshed the ice regularly and made sure to stay at hotels with refrigerators/freezers. Although we supplemented with food at a few convenience stops, we managed to avoid dining out at restaurants and saved quite a bit of money.

In the end, we visited some amazing destinations, including the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; the Space Center in Houston, and the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. The only thing I regret is that we didn't have more time to explore some of these places. But, of course, there's always next year!

About Jessica Cole

Jessica is a homeschool graduate and homeschooling mother who contributes to the Home School Legal Defense Association blog. Besides writing, her favorite activities include singing at church, teaching literature and theater at homeschool co-op, and planning escapades that push her routine-oriented husband outside his comfort zone. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and five children.

Read more about Jessica Cole here.

Connect with Jessica via: Website