Growing up in Michigan, I always knew there was something special about the state, but I never knew just how special until I left. Each time I come ‘home’ I’m reminded of the beauty around every corner.
In the decade since I started exploring The Great Lakes State, I’ve explored nearly every corner & peninsula, from Copper Harbor to Port Austin. Before my blog turned to various corners of the world, it was a Michigan-based blog. My job was finding the best places to visit in Michigan, and now I’m sharing them all with you!
Best Places to Visit in Michigan
1. Leelenau Peninsula
Famous for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Traverse City, and endless wineries, the Leelanau Peninsula has it all. During the day, hike to Pyramid Point and enjoy wine tasting at stops such as Good Harbor Vineyards, Leelanau Wine Cellars, or Willow Winery. Enjoy dinner in Fishtown (Leland) before heading to Empire Beach for sunset. Whether visiting for a week or a weekend, soak up Northern Michigan and enjoy every moment.
Where to stay:
2. Keewenaw Peninsula
Located in far northern Michigan, the Keweenaw Peninsula is the best place in the state to disconnect, relax, and soak up Pure Michigan beauty & sites. Head up in late September/early October for some of the best fall colors in the country. Take a drive to the top of Brockway Mountain for sunset or enjoy a beach day along the red beach of Hunter’s Point Park. There are plenty of cottages, lakeshore hotels, and rustic cabins to rent for a week or a weekend. The shores of the Keweenaw Peninsula along Lake Superior are special, and once you visit you’ll understand why.
Where to stay:
Lake Fanny Hooe Resort and Campground
3. Mackinac Island
If you’ve done any research on the best places to visit in Michigan, you’ve likely already heard of Mackinac Island. The island is located in Lake Huron between the Upper and Lower Peninsula. Cars are restricted on the island, meaning that the only transportation methods are by horse & carriage, bikes, or walking. Stay at the Grand Hotel, a resort frequented by past presidents & celebrities. Take a bike ride around the island, grab some Mackinac Island Fudge, or a cocktail at the Pink Pony. The best time to visit is May or September, when crowds have dwindled but the weather remains favorable.
Where to stay:
4. Detroit
After decades of harsh judgment and decay, Detroit is back! I’ve been saying for years that Detroit will soon become the Seattle of the east. If you were to be placed in the middle of St. Martius Square in downtown Detroit and asked what city you were in, you’d probably guess something like Chicago or Denver. The city offers world-class sports arenas, art markets, not-to-miss Detroit-style pizza, and so much more. The next time you visit Michigan, don’t knock Detroit!
Where to Stay:
5. Ludington
On the ‘sunset coast’ along Lake Michigan, Ludington is a common vacation spot for those living in Michigan. The town offers miles of soft, sandy shoreline for the perfect beach day. Choose from staying at a lakefront hotel or campground, or head out of town to a cozy cabin in Manistee National Forest. The town is famous for producing some of Michigan’s best ice cream, so grab a scoop (or two!) at House of Flavors before hiking out to Big Sable Point Lighthouse for sunset (3 miles round trip).
Where to stay:
Ludington State Park
6. The Porcupine Mountains
Typically the words ‘Michigan’ and ‘mountains’ don’t generally go together, but there is a small mountain range located in the western Upper Peninsula. It is the best spot in the Midwest to view fall colors. In the summer, the area offers hiking, backpacking, and stunning beaches along the coast of Lake Superior. Nearby is the Copper Peak Ski jump, which can be climbed to the top for a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding area.
Where to stay:
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