✓ Tours & Activities ✓ Tours & Activities
You might think you need to travel far for excitement, but Michigan is here to surprise you. As your home state or a destination for your next trip, it offers an incredible variety of attractions and activities.
With more coastline than any other contiguous state in the USA, Michigan is a paradise for water lovers and beach enthusiasts. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a native looking to explore more, this list will help you plan your perfect trip.
From natural wonders to cultural attractions, Michigan has something for everyone. Its unique geography creates distinctive landscapes and recreational opportunities. You’re in for a treat when you explore the best things to do in this amazing state.
Discovering Michigan’s Natural Beauty
Michigan’s diverse landscapes offer a wealth of natural beauty, from the towering sand dunes to the crystal-clear waters of the Great Lakes. The state’s unique geography provides a wide range of opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-visit destination, featuring some of the most breathtaking views in Michigan. The towering sand formations rise 450 feet above the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan, providing both visual splendor and physical challenge.
Pictured Rocks National Seashore
Pictured Rocks National Seashore along Lake Superior showcases dramatic multicolored sandstone cliffs that have been sculpted by water and weather over thousands of years. The vibrant mineral-stained rock formations create a natural art gallery that’s best viewed from the water during summer boat tours or kayaking expeditions.
Both of these natural wonders are part of Michigan’s connection to the Great Lakes, which shape the state’s unique landscapes and provide countless recreational opportunities. The area surrounding these national lakeshores offers hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, including forests, dunes, and beaches, making them perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Exploring Michigan’s Iconic Islands
Michigan’s iconic islands are a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and exciting activities waiting to be discovered. As you explore these islands, you’ll find a unique blend of relaxation and adventure.
Mackinac Island: A Step Back in Time
Mackinac Island is a car-free haven that offers a step back in time. With no cars allowed, you’ll explore the island on foot, by bicycle, or by horse-drawn carriage. The charming downtown area features Victorian architecture, fudge shops, and boutiques that have been delighting visitors for generations.
The island’s peaceful atmosphere and 19th-century charm make it a truly distinctive experience. You’ll enjoy the scenic views of Lake Huron and the surrounding landscape.
Isle Royale National Park
Located in Lake Superior, Isle Royale National Park is a remote and untouched wilderness area. The park offers hiking and boat trips, as well as opportunities to spot moose, wolves, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
With over 165 miles of hiking trails and no modern conveniences, Isle Royale provides a true escape from civilization. You’ll experience the pristine nature and serenity of this unique island.
Michigan, United States: Best Things to Do in the Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is a treasure trove of natural wonders, waiting to be explored. This region is home to some of the state’s most spectacular attractions, distinctly different from what you’ll find in the Lower Peninsula.
Tahquamenon Falls
Tahquamenon Falls, often called the “Root Beer Falls” due to their amber color from cedar tannins, is Michigan’s largest waterfall with an upper falls spanning 200 feet wide with a 50-foot drop. The falls are spectacular in any season, but winter transforms them into a magical frozen wonderland that fewer visitors get to experience.
Kitchi-iti-kipi Spring
Kitchi-iti-kipi, Michigan’s largest freshwater spring, pushes 10,000 gallons of crystal-clear water per minute through its sandy bottom, creating a mesmerizing turquoise pool. Visitors can observe the spring from a self-operated observation raft that glides across the water, allowing you to peer down 40 feet to the bubbling sandy bottom.
The Upper Peninsula is also home to the stunning Pictured Rocks shoreline, best experienced from the water on a cruise or kayak tour. With Lake Superior as its backdrop, this region offers a unique and unforgettable experience. You can visit these natural wonders in a single day if you’re ambitious, making the Upper Peninsula a must-visit region for any comprehensive Michigan trip.
Must-Visit Cities in Michigan
You can explore the best of Michigan by visiting its top cities, which offer a mix of culture, history, and entertainment. Michigan’s cities are filled with world-class attractions, delicious food, and exciting activities that showcase the state’s diverse character.
Detroit: Motor City Renaissance
Detroit, once the automotive capital of the world, is experiencing an exciting renaissance. Revitalized neighborhoods, a thriving arts scene, and historic buildings being transformed into trendy spaces make it a must-visit. The city is home to world-class institutions like the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Henry Ford Museum.
Traverse City: Cherry Capital
Traverse City, known as the Cherry Capital, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban amenities in northern Michigan. The city’s charming downtown is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and breweries. Every year, it hosts the famous National Cherry Festival, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage.
Ann Arbor: College Town Charm
Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan, combines intellectual energy with Midwestern charm. The city is known for its exceptional food scene, independent bookstores, and cultural attractions. It’s a great place to experience the rivalry between the University of Michigan and Michigan State.
Other notable cities in Michigan include Grand Rapids, which has transformed into an art and beer lover’s paradise. Each of these cities offers its own unique character and attractions, making them essential stops on any comprehensive tour of the state, and you can find plenty of exciting experiences on your list.
Outdoor Adventures Across the Great Lakes State
With its unique geography, Michigan provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities that showcase its natural beauty. Surrounded by four of the Great Lakes, the state offers a diverse range of landscapes that cater to all interests and ages.
Kayaking and Water Sports
Michigan’s extensive water trails and lakeshores make it an ideal destination for kayaking and other water sports. You can explore the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, kayak along the Lake Michigan shoreline, or take a guided tour to discover the state’s hidden gems.
Hiking and Biking Trails
The Upper Peninsula offers some of the most scenic hiking trails in the Midwest, including the North Country Trail, which traverses rugged terrain with spectacular views of Lake Superior. In the fall, the forests transform into a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold foliage, attracting nature photographers from across the country.
Michigan’s outdoor adventures are not limited to water sports and hiking. You can also explore the state’s many biking trails, visit the Boyne Mountain resort for thrilling mountain zip lines, or try the SkyBridge Michigan for a unique yoga experience on a 1,200-foot suspension bridge.
Winter Wonderland Activities
When snow blankets Michigan, the state reveals a tranquil yet adventurous side, perfect for planning a winter trip. The Upper Peninsula is particularly inviting, with its vast snowy landscapes offering a range of exciting activities.
Dog Sledding in the Upper Peninsula
Experience the thrill of dog sledding in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, an adventure that lets you explore the state’s snow-covered forests with the help of skilled sled dogs. Companies like Nature’s Kennel offer guided trips, ranging from short excursions to multi-day adventures.
Skiing and Snowshoeing
Michigan boasts over 40 ski areas across the state, catering to all skill levels, from family-friendly hills to challenging resorts with terrain parks. Additionally, snowshoeing provides a peaceful way to explore Michigan’s snow-covered state and national parks, with many visitor centers offering rentals and guided tours.
As winter transforms Michigan into a wonderland, visitors can enjoy a variety of cold-weather activities. The state’s winter festivals, ice sculptures, and sleigh rides are just a few ways to experience the magic of the season. For a unique experience, consider visiting the ice caves along Lake Superior, which form spectacular frozen formations under the right conditions.
Unique Michigan Experiences
Michigan is a treasure trove of unique experiences waiting to be discovered. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, the Great Lakes State has something for everyone.
Driving the Tunnel of Trees
Driving the famous M-119 Tunnel of Trees, especially during fall color season, offers one of the most scenic road trip experiences in northern Michigan with stunning views of Lake Michigan through a canopy of maple and beech trees.
This narrow, winding 20-mile stretch between Harbor Springs and Cross Village takes you through a natural tunnel formed by trees that meet overhead, creating a magical corridor that changes with the seasons.
Hunting for Petoskey Stones
Hunting for Petoskey stones along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron has become a beloved Michigan pastime and a unique way to connect with the state’s prehistoric past.
These distinctive fossils, formed from ancient coral that lived in the warm seas covering Michigan 350 million years ago, are now Michigan’s state stone and can be found nowhere else in the world.
Michigan’s Architectural Wonders
From iconic bridges to whimsical houses, Michigan’s architectural landscape is diverse and intriguing. You can explore the state’s most impressive structures, each with its own unique character and history.
Mackinac Bridge
The Mackinac Bridge is an engineering marvel that spans five miles across the Straits of Mackinac, connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. This iconic suspension bridge, known as “Mighty Mac,” offers breathtaking views of the meeting point of Lakes Michigan and Huron.
Charlevoix’s Mushroom Houses
In Charlevoix, you’ll find the enchanting Mushroom Houses, designed by self-taught architect Earl Young. These fairy-tale buildings feature whimsical organic designs with undulating rooflines and stone walls, making them appear to have grown naturally from the earth.
Both the Mackinac Bridge and Charlevoix’s Mushroom Houses are must-see architectural landmarks in Michigan, showcasing the state’s creative spirit and diverse heritage.
Cultural Attractions and Museums
You can experience the best of Michigan’s culture by visiting its numerous museums and art institutions. The state is home to a diverse range of cultural attractions that showcase its rich history, art, and innovation.
Henry Ford Museum
Located in Dearborn, the Henry Ford Museum is a large museum complex that takes place both indoors and outside. It’s a National Historic Landmark and focuses on a wide range of objects and artifacts from American culture and history. You can see a large number of vintage cars, the bus on which Rosa Parks famously refused to give up her seat, and the chair in which Lincoln was sitting when he was assassinated.
Detroit Institute of Arts
The Detroit Institute of Arts houses one of the most significant art collections in the United States, with over 65,000 works spanning from ancient times to the contemporary era. The museum is home to the Beaux-Arts building, which features over 100 galleries. You can see works by famous artists such as Degas and Cezanne, as well as Diego Rivera’s “Detroit Industry” murals.
In addition to these world-class museums, you can also visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art in Ann Arbor, which offers another exceptional cultural experience. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids is another must-visit attraction, where you can spend a day exploring exhibits about Michigan’s only president. These cultural institutions offer perfect indoor activities to end your trip or provide respite during inclement weather, making them essential additions to any Michigan cultural tour.
Michigan’s Food and Drink Scene
Experience the best of Michigan through its vibrant food and drink culture, featuring cherries, wines, and fudge. Michigan’s culinary identity is deeply rooted in its agricultural bounty, with cherries being a star product. The state’s food scene is a reflection of its natural beauty and the creativity of its people.
Cherry Products and Wineries
Michigan is known as the Cherry Capital of the World, producing over 75% of the tart cherries in the United States. The Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor is a must-visit, offering a vast array of cherry products, from salsas and syrups to chocolates and wines. You can indulge in cherry wine tasting and enjoy a meal at their Grand Cafe.
Mackinac Island Fudge
No trip to Michigan is complete without trying the famous Mackinac Island Fudge. Shops like Ryba’s Fudge and Murdick’s produce fresh batches daily, creating a sweet aroma that fills the island’s main street. Watching fudge being made is part of the experience, as skilled confectioners work their magic on marble slabs.
Historic Sites Worth Visiting
As you explore Michigan, you’ll discover a wealth of historic sites that are worth visiting. The state is home to numerous landmarks that showcase its rich history, from colonial-era settlements to significant historical museums.
Colonial Michilimackinac
Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City offers a fascinating glimpse into Michigan’s early European settlement. This reconstructed 18th-century fort and trading post is situated in a strategic area where Lakes Michigan and Huron meet. Visitors can explore thirteen reconstructed buildings and watch re-enactments from the American Revolution and the era when the British occupied the village.
Michigan History Center
The Michigan History Center in Lansing provides a comprehensive overview of Michigan’s development from prehistoric times through the automotive revolution and beyond. The center features interactive exhibits that showcase Michigan’s role in national events, housed in an architecturally significant building in the heart of the city.
Best Michigan Festivals and Events
From cultural celebrations to agricultural harvests, Michigan’s festival calendar is packed with exciting events. Whether you’re planning a road trip or just looking for something to do, there’s always something happening in the Great Lakes State.
Traverse City Cherry Festival
The Traverse City Cherry Festival is a beloved event held every year in July, attracting over 500,000 visitors. This week-long celebration features parades, air shows, concerts, and countless cherry-themed foods and activities. If you’re planning to attend, be sure to check the Cherry Festival website for updated information on dates and tickets.
Tulip Time in Holland
Tulip Time in Holland is another popular festival, transforming the city into a slice of the Netherlands each May. Millions of tulips bloom throughout the city, accompanied by traditional Dutch dancers in authentic costumes and cultural performances. For the latest dates and information, visit the Tulip Time website.
Michigan’s festivals are a great way to experience the state’s culture and heritage. From the National Cherry Festival to Tulip Time, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget the Lilac Festival on Mackinac Island, which takes place every June and is a treat for the senses.
Unique Shopping Experiences
From bustling markets to quaint, historic villages, Michigan’s shopping scene is as varied as it is exciting. You can explore the state’s rich cultural heritage through its diverse shopping destinations.
Detroit’s Eastern Market
Detroit’s Eastern Market is a must-visit destination, offering a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique crafts. As the largest historic public market district in the United States, it covers 43 acres and serves as both a commercial hub and cultural gathering place for the city.
Fishtown in Leland
Fishtown in Leland offers a charming shopping experience in a historic fishing village. You can browse through weathered fishing shanties, now converted into quaint shops, and enjoy scenic waterfront views. It’s a perfect place to find unique Michigan-made products.
Where to Stay: Unique Accommodations
Michigan’s diverse landscape is matched by its diverse accommodation options, ranging from historic hotels to modern glamping sites. Whether you’re looking for luxury, adventure, or a mix of both, Michigan has something for everyone.
Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island stands as an icon of elegance with its impressive 660-foot front porch overlooking the Straits of Mackinac. This historic hotel, built in 1887, maintains traditions like afternoon tea and five-course dinners, offering guests a glimpse into the grandeur of America’s Gilded Age.
Tiny Houses and Glamping Options
For those seeking more unconventional accommodations, Michigan offers a surprising number of tiny houses available for short-term rentals. Additionally, glamping options have exploded across the state, with luxury tent accommodations available from blueberry farms to vineyard properties.
Planning Your Michigan Adventure
To make the most of your Michigan adventure, it’s essential to plan ahead, considering the state’s distinct seasons and transportation options. Michigan offers a diverse range of experiences across both the Upper and Lower Peninsula, making it a great destination for a road trip or a relaxing getaway.
Best Times to Visit
Michigan is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique attractions and experiences. Summer is perfect for beach activities and water sports, while fall brings spectacular color tours and harvest festivals. Winter transforms the state into a snow sports paradise, and spring brings beautiful blooms and waterfalls at their peak flow.
Getting Around the State
Getting around Michigan typically requires a car, as public transportation between cities is limited. However, regional airports in Grand Rapids, Traverse City, and Marquette can help reduce driving time. You can plan your trip as a loop from Detroit or Chicago, crossing between peninsulas via the Mackinac Bridge or taking a ferry from Mackinaw City to explore both regions of this diverse state.
Conclusion
As you plan your trip to Michigan, you’ll discover a world of exciting experiences. Michigan offers an incredible diversity of experiences that rival destinations around the world, from pristine island getaways like Mackinac Island to vibrant city explorations.
The best things to do in Michigan change with the seasons, making it a destination worth visiting multiple times to experience its full range of offerings. This comprehensive list provides a starting point for planning your Michigan adventure.
Michigan’s unique geography creates experiences you simply can’t find elsewhere, from hunting for Petoskey stones to driving through tunnels of trees along the way. With its rich history, natural beauty, and welcoming Midwestern hospitality, Michigan is a top destination for travelers.
The above is subject to change.
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