Best Places to Visit in Michigan

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

1. Detroit

You cannot have a list of the best things to do in Michigan without including the Motor City of Detroit. Detroit is Michigan’s largest city and has much more to offer than just cars and Motown (although those are notable too). The city features a vibrant art scene with attractions like the Detroit Institute Of Arts Museum and the Heidelberg Project.

While visiting, don’t miss out on the museums. From the Motown Museum and the Detroit Historical Museum to the Henry Ford Museum, you can learn all about Detroit’s heyday while exploring Corktown and the East Market for a glimpse into the city’s culture.

Where to Stay in Detroit

• The Marriott at the Renaissance Center is located directly on the People Mover, ensuring a good central location in one of the 7 towers of the Renaissance Centre.
• Doubletree Suites by Hilton – Enjoy a stay in historic Fort Shelby, near notable landmarks such as the Fox Theatre and Detroit Opera House.

2. Charlevoix

Did you know you can see your own little slice of Hobbiton in Michigan? Charlevoix is not just a fantastic base in Northern Michigan, it’s also home to distinctive mushroom houses designed by renowned architect, Earl Young.

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

Start with a guided tour of the charming homes resembling mushrooms, search for Petoskey stones at Fisherman’s Island State Park, and take a tour of Castle Farms, a historic attraction boasting a model railroad and hedge maze.

3. Relax on Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is an idyllic destination for adventurers, dreamers, and lovers. For transportation, only horse-drawn carriages, walking, and bicycles are allowed, contributing to a relaxed atmosphere.

Paddle along the beautiful waters or indulge in creamy Mackinac Island Fudge. Before heading to the island, take a moment at Bridge View Park for a photo of the iconic Mackinac Bridge, the fifth-longest suspension bridge worldwide.

Where to Stay on Mackinac Island

A great place to stay is The Grand Hotel, known for its historical significance and majestic amenities.

Things to Do

• Rent a bicycle to explore the island, which is eight miles around.
• Climb the 207 steps to Castle Rock for stunning views.
• Learn the history of the island at Fort Mackinac.
• Visit the Butterfly House.
• Tour the Grand Hotel and its lavish gardens.

4. Grand Rapids

If you’re into microbrews, a visit to Grand Rapids is a must. Boasting over 80 craft breweries, Grand Rapids has earned the nickname “Beer City USA.”

Besides beer, the city is home to fantastic art galleries and shopping, making venues like the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park worth your time. For outdoor enthusiasts, paddle along the Grand River Heritage Trail.

5. Traverse City

Traverse City is the Cherry Capital of the World, ideal for wine tasting, kayaking, and biking. Known for producing forty percent of the U.S. tart cherry crop, it’s a must-stop during a Northern Michigan road trip.

Snap a fun photo in front of the World’s Largest Cherry Pie Pan or enjoy an ice cream flight at Moomers. Visiting in July allows you to experience the National Cherry Festival, attracting over 500,000 visitors annually.

6. Discover Shipwrecks and Fossils in Alpena

Alpena is situated on the Thunder Bay Marine Sanctuary in Lake Huron, home to over 200 shipwrecks. While there, consider a glass-bottom boat tour for an unforgettable view of these sunken treasures.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Alpena region offers exceptional hiking and biking trails at Island Park and Rockport State Park.

7. Frankenmuth – Fried Chicken and Christmas Wonderland

Frankenmuth can easily capture your heart with its Bavarian-themed charm. Famous for its covered bridge and horse-drawn carriage rides, it’s a top tourist destination in Michigan.

Don’t miss out on Zehnder’s famous fried chicken or shopping for handmade ornaments at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store.

8. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls State Park features stunning waterfalls, often compared to a mini Niagara Falls. It’s a popular spot for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors, with two entrances to explore.

9. Rockport State Park

For the adventurous spirit, Rockport State Park offers the chance to discover a rock quarry and rare fossils dating back 400 million years. Perfect for hiking and cycling enthusiasts!

10. Photograph Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most picturesque areas in Michigan. It offers breathtaking views for both summer and winter activities, including hiking, kayaking, and cross-country skiing.

11. Sand Dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-see, presenting stunning views, hiking trails, and opportunities to photograph the vast dunes.

Where to Stay

• Consider staying at a vacation rental close to Empire Beach, or check out Sugar Beach Resort Hotel directly on the beach of East Grand Traverse Bay.

12. Rafting Adventure in East Jordan

Rafting, tubing, and kayaking fans will love the clear rapids of the East Jordan River, situated in the heart of Michigan’s wilderness.

13. Sand Dunes of Silver Lake

For thrill-seekers, consider a dune buggy adventure in Silver Lake where you can rent vehicles to explore the towering dunes.

14. Midland’s Record-Breaking Canopy Walk

Experience the Nation’s Longest Canopy Walk at Dow Gardens, weaving through a red pine forest, offering a unique vantage point of the treetops.

15. Relax and Explore East Tawas

Tawas Point State Park provides activities year-round including kayaking, paddleboarding, and winter exploration opportunities.

16. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

For a remote experience, visit the Upper Peninsula’s Porcupine Mountains, offering over 60,000 acres of wilderness for hiking and skiing.

17. Holland

Holland, nicknamed the “Tulip City,” celebrates its Dutch heritage through stunning architecture and events like the Tulip Time Festival.

18. Isle Royale National Park

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior offers backcountry hiking and outdoor activities.

19. Ann Arbor

The charming downtown of Ann Arbor is filled with boutique shops, delightful restaurants, and the interactive Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum for family fun.

20. Lansing

A visit to Michigan’s capital, Lansing, offers a glimpse into its history at the Michigan State Capital building and the Michigan History Center.

21. Kalamazoo

Kalamazoo, home to Western Michigan University, features attractions like the Kalamazoo Valley Museum and beautiful Nature Center.

23. Bay City

Bay City, located on Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron, is perfect for exploring the USS Edson and enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.

Map of the Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Fall in love with Michigan

These are some of the best places to visit in Michigan. When exploring this vibrant state, make sure to venture outside of Detroit and discover all the amazing attractions the Great Lake State has to offer.

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