Michigan, meaning “large lake,” offers over 3,200 miles of shoreline and breathtaking wilderness. Explore this scenic Midwest state with its inland waterways, towering dunes, ancient forests, and vast lakes. Here are some of my favorite spots I’d love to share…
1. Mackinac Island and Arch Rock
This car-free island charmed me with its sugar-sand and pebble beaches, turquoise waters, forested trails, towering limestone Arch Rock, and elegant Victorian buildings overflowing with flowers.
A 40-minute drive from Petoskey to Mackinaw City, a quick 20-minute ferry ride, and suddenly I was on a car-free island where time seemed to slow, wrapped in a romantic, old-world atmosphere.
I spent four blissful days at the super-cute Island House Hotel, biking the 8.2-mile Shoreline Trail, exploring Fort Mackinac, sipping afternoon tea at the historic Grand Hotel, hiking to Arch Rock, unwinding on British Landing Beach, and indulging in handmade fudge at Murdick’s.
- Location: Northern part of the state between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas in Lake Huron
- Location Map
- Population size: Around 500 year-round residents
My favorite highlights…
- Seeing fudge being made then sampling the incredible fudge in the shops located on the island. I highly recommend the delicious Maple Syrup fudge at Murdick’s Fudge Shop!
2. Tahquamenon Falls
Framed by lush emerald forest and misty river vistas, I loved how this stunning duo of amber-colored waterfalls roared with raw power, exuding a wild, dramatic, and untouched beauty.
A 1 hour 20 minute journey from Cut River Bridge State Roadside Park took me through peaceful forested backroads to my cozy base at Tahquamenon Suites Lodging.
My afternoon was a whirlwind of hiking the River Trail between the Upper and Lower Falls, rowing a rental boat for an up-close look at the Lower Falls, and taking in sweeping views from the Upper Falls Overlook.
- Location: Upper Peninsula, within Tahquamenon Falls State Park, east of Paradise
- Map Location
- Size: Park spans around 50,000 acres
- Wildlife: Black bears, white-tailed deer, beavers, river otters, bald eagles
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the Tahquamenon Suites Lodging – I loved how they were only minutes away from the falls, how the huge spots were spotless and the super convenient self check-in using a door code sent by text!
3. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
This breathtaking 42-mile span of Lake Superior dazzled with its rainbow-hued sandstone cliffs, massive sand dunes, shallow caves, rock arches, sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, forested backdrops, and the photogenic Au Sable Light Station.
I carried on 2 hours west from Crisp Point Lighthouse to Munising when I stayed for two nights in the charming Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The area felt remote, adventurous, and awe-inspiring.
I split my days between kayaking below the Painted Cliffs, hiking to Chapel Falls via the Chapel Loop Trail, visiting Au Sable Light Station, and lounging on Sand Point Beach.
Locals told me that in winter, this spot transforms into a playground for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and even ice climbing!
- Location: Upper Peninsula, along the Lake Superior shoreline near Munising
- Location Map
- Size: 73,000 acres, 42 miles of shoreline
- Wildlife: Black bears, foxes, snowshoe hares, bald eagles, peregrine falcons
My personal highlights…
- Going scuba diving in the clear waters of Lake Superior and seeing the wreck of the The Smith Moore an old steamer which sank in 1889 – which was an extraordinary sight!
4. Holland State Park Beach
I loved this Lake Michigan beach for its endless soft golden sand, backdrop of rolling dunes, shimmering blue swimming waters, and the eye-catching Big Red Lighthouse.
I drove one hour north along the Lake Michigan shoreline from Silver Beach County Park to reach Holland’s sandy beach and striking red lighthouse. I loved its sunny, relaxed, and family-friendly and its touch of coastal charm.
My day was filled with beach swims, Big Red Lighthouse photos, a hike up the Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk, and paddleboarding and kayaking across Lake Macatawa.
My favorite highlights…
- Camping overnight at the Beach Campground – waking up to the stunning views of the lake was a beautiful experience!
5. Historic Gaslight District, Petoskey
Famed as one of Michigan’s top shopping spots, I loved its Victorian-era buildings with ornate facades, brick-lined streets lit by vintage-style gas lamps, and postcard views over Little Traverse Bay.
Following US-31 north from my previous stop at Charlevoix for 25 minutes along a stunning shoreline, I arrived in Petoskey’s downtown—quaint, elegant, and touched with old-world charm.
My afternoon was a mix of shopping for unique gifts at Grandpa Shorter’s, quirky kitchenware at Zany Kitchen, dining at Chandler’s, admiring bay views from Pennsylvania Park, and ending the day with a two-night stay at the stunningly located 4-star Inn at Bay Harbor.
- Location: Northern Lower Peninsula, on Little Traverse Bay in Lake Michigan, northern Michigan
- Location Map
- Population size: Around 5,800 residents
My personal highlights…
- Shopping for quirky kitchenware in the Zany Kitchen shop and unique souvenirs in Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts. I especially loved the cute locally made gifts they had.
6. Lake Michigan
One of North America’s five Great Lakes, it wowed me with endless sandy beaches, hidden pebble coves, dramatic dunes like Sleeping Bear, charming lakeside towns, historic lighthouses, and sparkling blue waters!
I drove 2 hours 30 minutes north from Ludington State Park into Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Once here it felt expansive, refreshing, and laid-back with an awesome coastal getaway feel.
Over four relaxing days, I tackled the Dune Climb at Sleeping Bear Dunes, hiked South Manitou Island, toured Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and wandered Chicago’s Navy Pier.
- Location: Western edge of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, bordering Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana
- Location Map
- Size: 22,400 square miles, depth up to 923 feet
- Wildlife: Lake trout, salmon, white-tailed deer, piping plovers
My favorite highlights…
- Staying in the clean and modern apartment in 116 Edgewater Inn – I loved the outdoor swimming pool and how they were near the famous Mushroom Houses designed by Earl Young and the boutique and wine bar lined Bridge Street!
7. Isle Royale National Park
This remote Lake Superior island wowed me with its untouched pebble beaches, dense evergreen forests, sparkling inland lakes, and historic lighthouses standing like solitary sentinels along its wild shoreline.
From Copper Harbor, I took the seasonal ferry (3.5 hours) out to remote Isle Royale in Lake Superior, I loved its isolated, wild, and tranquil with a true off-the-grid atmosphere. I heard from locals that it was almost almost entirely inaccessible during the winter months due to harsh weather conditions!
I spent three nights at the beautifully located Rock Harbor Lodge, hiking the Greenstone Ridge Trail for sweeping island views, diving the SS America shipwreck off Washington Harbor, and visiting Rock Harbor Lighthouse.
- Location: Lake Superior, far northwestern part of the state.
- Map Location
- Size: 73,000 acres, 42 miles of shoreline
- Wildlife: Wolves, moose, foxes, snowshoe hares, bald eagles, peregrine falcons
My favorite highlights…
- Diving the incredibly clear waters to see the wreck of SS America which sank in 1928 – I was amazed by how intact the ship still was — with its railings, winches, and pilot house eerily preserved!
8. Ludington State Park
Framed by golden sands, rolling dunes, tranquil forest paths, and the eye-catching Big Sable Point Lighthouse, I thought this lakeside park was a beauty!
I drove 2 hours north from Holland State Park Beach along scenic US-31 to Ludington’s lakeside park and lighthouse, where peaceful, nature-focused charm met classic lakeshore vibes.
My day was filled with a swim at Lake Michigan Beach, a hike along the Lost Lake Trail, snapping photos of Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and paddleboarding on Hamlin Lake.
- Location: Western Michigan, between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake near Ludington
- Map Location
- Size: 5,300 acres
- Wildlife: White-tailed deer, beavers, turtles, bald eagles
My favorite highlights…
- Camping overnight at Pines Campground which I found located in shaded forest near Hamlin Lake and has a short trail leading straight to the beach – it was awesome to fall asleep and wake to the distant sound of waves!
9. The Crisp Point Lighthouse
This remote 58-foot lighthouse was a standout—its tall white tower capped with a red lantern stood alone on a rugged Lake Superior shore where crashing waves met wide sandy beaches and untouched forest.
An hour’s drive west from Tahquamenon Falls on remote rural roads brought me to a secluded, picture-perfect spot with a touch of wild ruggedness.
My two-hour visit included climbing the lighthouse and gazing at panoramic lake vistas, enjoying a picnic at the tables, and snapping shoreline shots from the sandy beach.
- Location: Southwest Lower Peninsula, Barry County
- Map Location
- Size: 5,200 acres
- Wildlife: Wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, beavers, great blue herons
My favorite highlights…
- Having a picnic at a table near the base where I just sat, ate, and gazed up at its striking red lantern and the incredible wild shoreline where waves crashed very atmospherically against the sandy beach.
10. Porcupine Mountains State Park
Known as the “Porkies,” this vast 1944-protected wilderness impressed me with ancient forests, dramatic ridgelines, glittering waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas across Lake Superior’s endless shimmer!
I drove 2 hours 50 minutes west from Presque Isle Park to my nearby base Mountain View Lodges which were only a mile away from the entrance. The park felt wild, remote, and untamed with a true back-to-nature feel!
My two-day adventure here included hiking the Escarpment Trail, climbing to the Summit Peak Observation Tower, exploring the Carp Lake Mine ruins, and photographing the stunning Lake of the Clouds.
- Location: Northwestern Upper Peninsula along Lake Superior
- Map Location
- Size: 59,000 acres
- Wildlife: Moose, black bears, red foxes, bald eagles
My personal highlights…
- Exploring the fascinating ruins of Carp Lake Mine which are located in the park.
11. Silver Beach County Park
With its golden-sand shoreline, historic red-and-white lighthouse on the South Pier, and a lively lakefront complete with picnic pavilions and the vintage Silver Beach Carousel, I discovered that this park was a gem!
This place was actually my first stop on my Michigan road trip, I flew into Chicago O’Hare, drove 1 hour 45 minutes east to The Inn at Harbor Shores, and made my way to St. Joseph’s beach, which buzzed with family-friendly energy and old-school lakeside charm!
My afternoon was filled with a swim and sunbathe on the main beach, a walk along the South Pier to the North Pier Lighthouse, a spin on the Silver Beach Carousel, and a sunset from the Whirlpool Compass Fountain.
- Location: Southwestern Michigan, in St. Joseph on Lake Michigan
- Location Map
- Size: 27 acres
- Faculties: Restrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, grills, playground, and splash pad
- Wildlife: Gulls, shorebirds, small lake fish
My favorite highlights…
- Hunting for antiques and vintage items in downtown St. Joseph afterwards, I loved browsing quaint antique stores filled with weathered lake-themed décor, cool retro signs, mid-century glassware, and old travel postcards.
12. Yankee Springs State Park
An often overlooked beauty spot, it managed to charm me with glacially carved hills and lakes, hardwood forests, tranquil shores, and the unique Devil’s Soupbowl, created thousands of years ago by retreating glaciers.
After an 8-hour southbound drive from Isle Royale National Park, I arrived at this peaceful inland park near Middleville, which felt quiet, rustic, and off the beaten path.
I hiked the Hall Lake and Devil’s Soupbowl Trails, kayaked on Gun Lake using the park’s rentals, and stayed overnight in a rustic cabin with stunning waterfront views.
- Location: Lower Peninsula, Barry County, southwestern Michigan
- Location Map
- Size: 5,200 acres
- Wildlife: Wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, beavers, great blue herons
My highlights…
13. Cut River Bridge State Roadside Park
I loved this unique roadside spot where a soaring steel bridge crosses a green gorge, offering panoramic Lake Michigan views and tranquil forest trails below.
After returning from Mackinac Island and Arch Rock by ferry, I drove 50 minutes west along Highway US-2 into the Upper Peninsula to this dramatic bridge viewpoint. It felt scenic, quiet, and slightly dramatic with a hidden-gem feel!
My afternoon here included a walk across the Cut River Bridge for panoramic lake and gorge vistas, a shaded trek along the Gorge Trail below, and a photo stop at the roadside overlook.
- Location: Southeastern Upper Peninsula, Mackinac County
- Location Map
- Wildlife: Songbirds, small mammals, deer
My highlights…
- I loved how there I felt a faint sway when walking across the pedestrian path on the bridge — it was little vertigo-inducing, but unforgettable at the same time!
14. Presque Isle Park
I thought this forested peninsula was stunning—black volcanic rock cliffs, quiet pebble and sand coves, dense old-growth woods, and a quaint stone pavilion with sweeping views of Lake Superior’s blue expanse.
I drove 1 hour 15 minutes west from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to Marquette, arriving at a peaceful, scenic spot immersed in nature with a hint of rugged charm.
I spent the afternoon driving the Presque Isle Loop, watching cliff jumpers at Black Rocks, unwinding at Sunset Point, and spotting wildlife along Lake Superior’s shore.
- Location: Northern Upper Peninsula, in Marquette on Lake Superior
- Location Map
- Size: 323 acres
- Wildlife: White-tailed deer, raccoons, snow geese, bald eagles
My favorite highlights…
15. Mount Bohemia
This remote ski and adventure resort surprised me in summer with its rugged slopes, sweeping views of Lake Superior and Lac La Belle, rustic wooden lodges, snug yurts, and wild landscapes that become a winter wonderland.
I drove 25 minutes south from Copper Harbor Trails along Lac La Belle Road to this rugged mountain area and my base at the super-cozy Aqua Log Cabins Resort. The area felt adventurous, rustic, and remote with a wild, off-the-grid feel.
My day at Mount Bohemia was packed—summit trail hiking with sweeping lake vistas, paddleboarding on Lac La Belle, zip-lining the canopy, and relaxing in the outdoor sauna.
I learned from the locals that winter transformed this into one of the Midwest’s snowiest destinations, attracting skiers nationwide to tackle its rugged ungroomed backcountry terrain.
- Location: Northern Keweenaw Peninsula, Upper Peninsula
- Location Map
- Size: Ski area covering over 500 acres
- Wildlife: Black bears, moose, foxes, bald eagles
- Mount Bohemia Website
My favourite highlights…
- Relaxing in the Scandinavian-style outdoor sauna located here – I loved the scent of fresh cedarwood and stepping outside afterwards to cool off in mountain air while gazing at the views over Lac La Belle!
16. The University of Michigan
Founded in 1817, this prestigious Ann Arbor public research university really impressed me with its grand Gothic and Beaux-Arts architecture, leafy quads, vibrant seasonal gardens, and lively campus atmosphere
I drove Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park 2 hours southeast to Ann Arbor to tour the campus. It felt scholarly, vibrant, and full of historic charm!
I toured the Law Quadrangle, climbed Burton Memorial Tower, wandered the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, and kicked back on the Diag’s wide green lawn.
My personal highlights…
- The Diag which was a buzzy central green space where students sprawled on blankets, played frisbee between classes, and a even street musician strummed guitar under the shade of a towering oak – it was a vibe!
17. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
With colorful seasonal flowers, a serene Japanese Garden and teahouse, a rich tropical conservatory, and dramatic large-scale sculptures, this botanical garden and art park I thought this was a true gem!
I drove 45 minutes northwest from the Yankee Springs State Park to Grand Rapids to explore the gardens and art installations. I loved how it felt artistic, tranquil, and inspiring with a touch of cultural elegance.
My afternoon included a stroll through the Japanese Garden, a stop to see The American Horse, a wander in the Tropical Conservatory, and colorful blooms in the Michigan Farm Garden.
My personal highlights…
- The sculptures – my favorite was the “The American Horse” which is a huge 24-foot-tall bronze horse by acclaimed artist Nina Akamu.
18. Copper Harbor Trails
Best known for its elite mountain biking, this trail system impressed me with its attractiveness – its twisting forest trails, rugged cliffside lookouts, peaceful lakeshore sections, and panoramic Lake Superior vistas.
A 3-hour drive from the Porkies took me to the Keweenaw Peninsula’s far tip, where the trails brimmed with adventure, rugged beauty, and a raw wilderness vibe.
From hiking the Keweenaw Point Trail with its peaceful lake vistas to taking in sweeping panoramas from Brockway Mountain and watching skilled riders tackle The Flow mountain biking trail, I really enjoyed my time here!
- Location: Northern Keweenaw Peninsula, Upper Peninsula
- Map Location
- Size: Trail network spanning dozens of miles
- Wildlife: Black bears, moose, bald eagles, loons
My favorite highlights…
- Watching the incredible world-class mountain bikers here – I was in awe about how they navigated sharp switchbacks, rock drops, and narrow wooden boardwalks all with effortless skill!
