5 Epic Michigan Road Trips!
Pictured Rocks - You have to see it at least once, quite possibly the most beautiful place in Michigan! You can explore by land or by water and each offers a very different and unique view of this beautiful Lake Superior shoreline! My personal favorite and the easiest is to see it from the water by kayak, tour boat or rental! Most of the rentals and tours go out of Munising and will fill up so be sure to pre book! If you have a large group, it can be cheaper to rent your own pontoon and they will give you a map! If you do this, be sure to stop for a swim in the fridged and crystal-clear waters! By land is also stunning as you get a birds-eye view, but a bit more intense! Be sure to check out Miners Castle Overlook, the Chapel Loop and any of the gorgeous beaches.
Harbor Springs - Summer is obviously the busy season in this picturesque town! But they also boast one of our favorite ski hills nearby (Nubs Nob)! So really this small town is great to visit any season! Shop, dine and take in the beautiful views of Little Traverse Bay! Some places to check out: Tom’s Mom’s Cookies, Ivy Boutique, Harbor Wear, Pearson’s Grill and Spirits, Harbor Springs Farmers Market, Harbor Springs Beach.
Traverse City - As the largest city in Northern Michigan, it comes as no surprise that it’s also one of the most visited. Located at the foot of West Grand Traverse Bay, this gem is perfect for any season, but spring, summer and fall are the busiest times. Some places to check out: Sleeping Bear Dunes (about 45 min drive), Bonobo and Bowers Harbor Wineries on Mission Point Peninsula, Red Spire Brunch House, The Cherry Festival, shop local and eat at one of the many restaurants in downtown, hit one of the public beaches located on M-72.
Mackinac Island - Voted #1 summer destination by USA Today for 2024! This needs to be on your bucket list! Nestled between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, its streets are traversed by horse drawn buggy and tons of bicycles! This is the perfect spot to take it all in, relax and enjoy the carefree spirit of the island! Some places to check out: Mission Point Resort, The Greens of Mackinac, Pink Pony, grab a Beer at Doud’s Market and head to the playground, Fort Mackinac, and you MUST bike the island, be sure to check out Arch Rock.
Frankenmuth - Located in Mid-Michigan, this can be a great day trip or even an overnight! This German inspired town also known as “Little Bavaria” is just dazzling, especially at Christmas time! Which is no surprise that it is also home to the world’s largest Christmas store, Bronner’s! Some things to check out: Bronner’s, drive over the covered bridge, eat at Tiffany’s, get a famous chicken dinner at Zhender’s, Shop the RiverPlace shops and be sure to grab a cupcake from Sugar High Bakery. If you're looking for a place to stay, we love Bavarian Inn Lodge!
