While Detroit and Mackinac Island tend to steal the spotlight when planning a Michigan getaway, the Great Lakes State offers countless destinations that deserve attention – from quiet lakeside towns to charming forest hideaways, each bringing its own slice of Midwestern charm without the tourist crowds.
From cozy beach communities to historic urban centers, here are 18 places across Michigan worth exploring, whether you’re seeking waterfront adventures or a peaceful retreat into nature’s backyard.
Mackinac Island
Stepping onto Mackinac Island feels like traveling back to a simpler time, where cars are banned and horse-drawn carriages clip-clop down the streets. Located between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, this charming island sits like a jewel in Lake Huron’s waters. Victorian buildings line the main street, while the smell of fresh fudge wafts from local candy shops that have been perfecting their craft for generations. The grand Hotel Mackinac stands proudly on the highest point of the island, its massive front porch – the longest in the world – offering sweeping views of the Straits of Mackinac. Bicycle paths wind around the island’s eight-mile perimeter, leading visitors past limestone bluffs, hidden coves, and the iconic Arch Rock formation that rises 146 feet above the shoreline.
Interesting Fact:
Ever wondered what life would be like without cars? On Mackinac Island, motorized vehicles have been banned since 1898, so the only ways to get around this charming Michigan retreat are by horse-drawn carriage, bicycle, or your own two feet – making it feel like you’ve stepped right back into the late 1800s.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
When it comes to Michigan’s natural wonders, Sleeping Bear Dunes stands in a league of its own. This 35-mile stretch of sandy coastline rises dramatically from Lake Michigan’s blue waters, with dunes towering up to 450 feet high. It’s a place where visitors trek up golden slopes, some at a 45-degree angle, just to be rewarded with endless views of the Great Lakes and nearby Glen Lake. The park isn’t just about climbing dunes though – hidden within its 71,000 acres are dense forests, quiet inland lakes, and abandoned farm buildings that tell stories of the region’s past. While the steep climb up the dunes isn’t for everyone, those who make the journey often find themselves sliding back down with childlike joy, creating memories that last far beyond their visit.
Detroit’s Riverfront
Looking for a prime spot to experience Detroit’s reinvention? The Detroit Riverfront has become the heart of the city’s outdoor scene, stretching for 3.5 miles along the water with parks, plazas, and paths to explore. This former industrial area now welcomes visitors with the RiverWalk – perfect for cycling, jogging, or simply watching boats cruise by on their way to the Great Lakes. You can join locals at special events in Hart Plaza, let kids splash in the fountain at Mt. Elliott Park, or grab a bite at one of the waterfront restaurants. The best part? You might catch a glimpse of Canada right across the river, making this spot a unique place where two countries share the same waterway.
Grand Rapids
Michigan’s second-largest city, Grand Rapids sits along the Grand River about three hours west of Detroit. Like many Midwestern cities, it has deep industrial roots and a rich beer-making heritage that continues today through its numerous craft breweries. But what sets Grand Rapids apart is how it’s embraced art in unexpected places. Just walk downtown and you’ll spot massive sculptures and murals around every corner – remnants of the city’s annual ArtPrize festival. Because of its history as a furniture manufacturing hub, you’ll find beautiful old factories converted into trendy restaurants and vintage shops, while the Frederik Meijer Gardens showcase both nature and art across 158 acres of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Traverse City
If you want to experience the best of Michigan’s natural beauty and food scene, Traverse City should be at the top of your list. Located along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, this charming city is known as the “Cherry Capital of the World” and hosts the famous National Cherry Festival each July. Beyond cherries, you’ll find miles of sandy beaches, rolling vineyards producing award-winning wines, and the lovely Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore just a short drive away.
Isle Royale National Park
Ever spotted a moose wading through crystal-clear waters? It’s just another day at Isle Royale National Park, a remote island wilderness floating in the cool waters of Lake Superior. This car-free paradise, accessible only by boat or seaplane, offers visitors a chance to disconnect from the modern world and explore 165 miles of rugged hiking trails. The park is home to a fascinating wolf and moose population, making it a living laboratory for scientists studying predator-prey relationships. From May to October, you can camp under starlit skies, paddle along rocky shorelines in a kayak, or stay at the historic Rock Harbor Lodge, where the only traffic noise comes from lapping waves and calling loons.
Frankenmuth
Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth sits about 90 minutes north of Detroit and feels like a slice of Germany planted in the heart of the Midwest. You’ll find yourself surrounded by half-timbered buildings and the smell of fresh pretzels wafting through the streets. The town’s German roots run deep – it was founded by Lutheran missionaries in 1845, and that heritage is still very much alive today. Walking down Main Street, you’ll hear traditional German music playing from shop speakers and see servers in dirndls and lederhosen at local restaurants. The town is perhaps most famous for Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, and the chicken dinners at Zehnder’s and Bavarian Inn that have been drawing visitors for generations.
Holland
Many travelers head to Holland, Michigan for its famous Tulip Time Festival in May, but this Lake Michigan shoreline town offers much more than just spring blooms. The area boasts eight miles of sandy beaches along Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa, making it a prime spot for swimming and water sports during summer months. Dutch culture runs deep here – from the authentic DeZwaan Windmill at Windmill Island Gardens to the traditional Dutch architecture downtown. In winter, the heated sidewalks of the shopping district keep visitors cozy while they explore local shops and restaurants, and the nearby ski resorts provide opportunities for downhill adventures. No matter when you visit, you’ll find Holland’s mix of Midwestern charm and European heritage creates an inviting atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
Ann Arbor
My first visit to Ann Arbor was during a crisp autumn weekend in 2019. Home to the University of Michigan, this college town sits along the peaceful Huron River about 45 minutes west of Detroit. The downtown area centers around Main Street and State Street, where local bookstores, coffee shops, and indie music venues create a laid-back atmosphere. The iconic “Big House” – Michigan’s football stadium – dominates fall Saturdays when 100,000+ fans fill the streets in a sea of maize and blue. Beyond the campus buzz, you’ll find the charming Kerrytown district with its year-round farmers market and the winding trails of the Nichols Arboretum, where spring brings thousands of blooming peonies. The city’s creative spirit shows up in unexpected places, from tiny fairy doors hidden around downtown to the ever-changing graffiti alley off Liberty Street.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
If you enjoy chasing waterfalls, you need to visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Located about 75 miles north of the Mackinac Bridge, this 50,000-acre park is home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi – the Upper Falls, which spans 200 feet across and drops nearly 50 feet, giving the water its distinctive root beer color from the natural tannins in the cedar swamps upstream.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Of all the natural wonders in Michigan, none capture the imagination quite like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. This 42-mile stretch along Lake Superior showcases colorful sandstone cliffs that rise up to 200 feet above the water, creating a natural gallery of red, orange, and cream-colored rock faces. Visitors can explore the shoreline by kayak, cruise boat, or hiking trail, getting up close to unique formations like Miners Castle and Chapel Rock. It’s not just about the cliffs though – the park offers year-round adventures from summer beach walks to winter ice climbing. Those who make the journey to this remote corner of the Upper Peninsula discover a landscape that feels more like an artist’s canvas than a Great Lakes shoreline.
Saugatuck
Tucked away on Michigan’s western shore, Saugatuck is the kind of small town that makes you want to slow down and stay awhile. This artsy lakeside community has been drawing visitors for generations with its mix of sandy beaches, independent galleries, and laid-back charm. Walking through downtown, you’ll find yourself popping into local shops, grabbing ice cream, and watching boats drift by on the Kalamazoo River. The town is especially known for Oval Beach, where Lake Michigan’s waters meet pristine dunes that feel more like an ocean coast than a midwest shore. It’s a place that attracts both creative types and beach lovers, where you can spend your morning browsing art studios and your afternoon taking a historic hand-cranked ferry across the harbor.
The Henry Ford Museum
Of all the museums I’ve visited in Michigan, none capture America’s innovative spirit quite like the Henry Ford Museum. This sprawling 250-acre complex in Dearborn houses more than just cars – it’s a celebration of American ingenuity and progress through the ages. You’ll find everything from Rosa Parks’ bus to Thomas Edison’s laboratory, presidential limousines to massive steam locomotives. It’s not just a place to look at old artifacts – the museum brings history to life with interactive exhibits and demonstrations that show how American innovation has evolved over time. Those who spend a day exploring here leave with a deeper understanding of how everyday inventions have shaped our lives.
Lansing
Many visitors come to Lansing as Michigan’s capital city, but this Midwest destination offers much more than just government buildings and political activity. The city sits at the confluence of the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, creating plenty of opportunities for kayaking and riverside walks. The historic REO Town district showcases the city’s automotive heritage, while Michigan State University brings a lively college-town atmosphere to the area. Between catching a Lugnuts baseball game at Jackson Field, exploring the interactive exhibits at the Impression 5 Science Center, or wandering through the beautiful Cooley Gardens, you’ll find plenty to fill your itinerary in this down-to-earth Michigan city.
Did You Know This Fact?
In a quirky twist of history, Michigan’s capital city of Lansing was actually chosen by randomly sticking a pin in a map back in 1847, when state officials needed to move the capital from Detroit. Despite its random selection, Lansing has grown into a city of over 100,000 people and is home to Michigan State University, one of the largest universities in the United States.
Ludington State Park
Many visitors head to Ludington State Park for its 5,300 acres of natural beauty where Lake Michigan meets dense forests and rolling dunes. The park sits between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, offering visitors a mix of waterfront activities and woodland adventures. There are several miles of shoreline to explore, plus hiking trails that wind through the forests and over the dunes. During summer months, the Big Sable Point Lighthouse draws crowds eager to climb its tower, but you’ll find plenty to do here year-round, from cross-country skiing in winter to fishing and camping when the weather warms up.
Petoskey
Step back in time when you visit Petoskey, a charming coastal town on Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay. The historic Gaslight District lets you browse locally-owned shops and cafes housed in Victorian-era buildings, while nearby beaches offer prime spots for hunting the area’s famous Petoskey stones – unique fossils that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Little Traverse Wheelway provides 26 miles of scenic biking and walking paths along the waterfront. In winter, head to the Boyne Highlands or Nub’s Nob ski resorts just minutes away for some of Michigan’s best slopes and terrain.
Marquette
Nestled along the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Marquette blends outdoor adventure with small-town charm. As the region’s largest city, it serves as a gateway to the rugged wilderness that surrounds it. Local mountain biking trails wind through dense forests, while Presque Isle Park offers peaceful walks along rocky cliffs overlooking the great lake. The historic downtown district tells the story of the area’s iron ore mining past through its architecture, with red sandstone buildings housing craft breweries and cozy cafes. In winter, the nearby Marquette Mountain becomes a playground for skiers and snowboarders, while summer brings paddleboarders and kayakers to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior. The city’s waterfront path, lined with old ore docks and fishing boats, offers a perfect spot to watch the sunset paint the sky in shades of pink and orange.
Copper Harbor
I first discovered Copper Harbor during a fall road trip along Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in 2019. Sitting at the northernmost tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, this tiny harbor town feels like you’ve reached the edge of the world. The surrounding area is dotted with thick forests of maple and birch trees, while Lake Superior’s crystal-clear waters lap against rocky shorelines. Fort Wilkins Historic State Park stands guard over the harbor, just as it did in the 1840s during the region’s copper mining boom. The Brockway Mountain Drive offers sweeping views of the harbor below, where you can watch boats bobbing in the water and, if you’re lucky, catch sight of the Northern Lights dancing across the night sky.
