Michigan, which means “massive lake,” provides over 3,200 miles of shoreline and breathtaking wilderness. Discover this scenic Midwest state with its inland waterways, towering dunes, historic forests, and huge lakes. Listed below are a few of my favourite spots I’d like to share…
1. Holland State Park Seashore
Positioned close to the town of Holland, this protected Holland State Park spans round 140 acres and is crammed with pristine pure magnificence together with huge lakes, lush forested areas, beautiful dunes and a historic lighthouse.
Though its its the lengthy huge, family-friendly sandy Holland State Park Seashore which is my favourite half. Positioned on the shore of Lake Michigan, it’s a beautiful spot with calm waters and incredible alternatives for swimming, boating, tenting, picnicking, enjoying volleyball or simply merely stress-free.
When right here, I extremely suggest photographing the long-lasting and really hanging Massive Pink Lighthouse, renting a kayak, jet-ski or paddleboard and exploring the waters, climbing the sand dunes after which watching a chic sundown!
My favourite highlights…
- Visiting close by Holland whereas staying which is a metropolis with an interesting Dutch heritage I beloved the the distinctive windmills and the gorgeous gardens crammed with tulips!
- Tenting in a single day on the Seashore Campground which had beautiful views of the lake.
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2. Mackinac Island and Arch Rock
This car-free resort island positioned in Lake Huron covers greater than 4 sq. miles between Michigan’s Higher and Decrease peninsulas.
It has an attention-grabbing previous with a diversified historical past that dates again 1000’s of years however right now it’s a preferred vacationer resort lined with thick forests, attention-grabbing limestone formations, sandy seashores and nineteenth century historic structure and picturesque harbors full with gently bobbing boats.
Don’t miss the fascinating Fort Mackinac, the charming and historic Grand Hotel which is dwelling to the world’s longest porch (and unbelievable coastal views) and exploring the wonderful climbing trails.
One of many trails, the Arch Rock Path lead me to my favourite pure sight on the island, Arch Rock. The pure limestone arch that reaches 146 toes above the bottom and for my part it’s an absolute should see on the island and really photogenic!
My favourite highlights…
- Seeing fudge being made then sampling the unbelievable fudge within the outlets positioned on the island. I extremely suggest the scrumptious Maple Syrup fudge at Murdick’s Fudge Store.
- Renting a motorcycle at Ryba’s Bicycle Rental for simply $9 a hour after which exploring the scenic looped bike path which took me spherical the entire island seeing beautiful lake and limestone rock views alongside the way in which!
- Eating on tasty gluten-free tacos on the cute Seabiscuit Cafe.
3. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
Positioned in Grand Rapids, I really like visiting this tranquil spot because it’s a ravishing and really effectively saved family-friendly public backyard with attention-grabbing instructional programmes and unbelievable artwork within the type of fashionable sculptures by famend artists (together with Henry Moore and August Rodin) which mix seamlessly into the panorama!
Masking 158 acres, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park incorporates a zen-like Japanese backyard full with an ornate teahouse, nature trails, shade gardens, a youngsters’s backyard, a 15,000-square-foot tropical conservatory, heirloom orchards and a farm backyard (which grows greens and herbs), in addition to the various assortment modern sculptures and a calendar of cultural occasions.
My private highlights…
- Seeing native musicians play on the Ayers Basement Techniques Tuesday Night Music Membership which is a held on a big stage within the grounds throughout the summer season months.
- Photographing my favourite sculpture “The American Horse” which is a big 24-foot-tall bronze horse by acclaimed artist Nina Akamu.
4. Mount Bohemia
Mount Bohemia is a wild and rugged spot which throughout the winter provides some distinctive and difficult snowboarding for extra skilled skiers and snowboarders – with critical backcountry terrain, two chairlifts and rustic lodging.
Positioned within the Keweenaw Peninsula, within the Higher Peninsula it’s a shocking magnificence spot in each summer season and winter however in winter the out of doors adventurists descend eager to sort out the deeply lined and ungroomed runs and really steep slopes.
In the course of the winter months its a scenic paradise and is definitely one of many snowiest spots within the Midwest. I additionally love visiting throughout the summer season and exploring the scenic climbing trails, going kayaking and swimming within the close by calm waters of Lac La Belle Lake after which staying in a single day in a cute a yurt!
My favorite highlights…
- Enjoyable within the Scandinavian-style out of doors sauna which is positioned right here!
- Going zipling on the Mount Bohemia Zip Line Tour the place I noticed unbelievable birds-eye-views of Lac La Belle Lake in addition to the thick forests.
5. Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore
Positioned on the shore of Lake Michigan within the state’s Higher peninsula, this can be a beautiful protected gem within the type of an unbelievable lakeshore that runs for 42 miles and covers greater than 73,000 acres.
A haven for each nature lovers and out of doors adventurists, the uncrowded space is crammed with colourful sandstone cliffs, big sand dunes, shallow caves, rock arches, sandy seashores, forests, fairly waterfalls and even an Instagram-worthy lighthouse, Au Sable Mild Station.
In addition to being extremely scenic I really like that it has a great deal of actions on supply too together with glorious climbing trails (which you’ll be able to see the waterfalls on a lot of them), kayaking, boating, paddleboarding and tenting.
In the course of the winter it provides cross-country snowboarding, snowmobiling, and even mountaineering!
My private highlights…
- Going scuba diving within the clear waters of Lake Superior and seeing the wreck of the The Smith Moore an previous steamer which sank in 1889 – which was a rare sight!
- Seeing the beautiful 60-foot Chapel Falls which I discovered on the finish of the scenic Chapel Loop Path.
- Going for a picnic and a swim on the sandy Sand Level Seashore whereas gazing on the beautiful views of Lake Superior.
6. Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is likely one of the 5 Nice Lakes within the nation and types the whole western boundary of the Decrease Peninsula of Michigan and is bordered by a few different states, together with Wisconsin, and Indiana.
In addition to being big (its 22,400 sq. miles and 923 toes deep), it’s additionally a shocking place with areas of outstanding magnificence and loads of leisure actions which pulls households, nature lovers and out of doors adventurists. There’s tons to do right here together with crusing, climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, tenting and even scuba diving ship wrecks.
Stunning sandy seashores adorn its shoreline good for stress-free, swimming and boating and its dwelling to round twenty small islands and nationwide and state parks which encompass the lake. There’s additionally a minimum of 102 lighthouses!
My favourite highlights…
- Climbing and tenting in a single day on the rugged South Manitou Island, I additionally beloved the scenic lighthouse it has right here.
- Exploring the towering sand dune at Sleeping Bear Dunes Nationwide Lakeshore.
- Discovering a number of the lake’s greatest spots when staying in Chicago which is positioned on the shores I beloved Navy Pier the bustling, iconic, and scenic spot; Oak Avenue Seashore which provides a serene, upscale city oasis and the full of life North Avenue Seashore.
7. Yankee Springs State Park
This under-the-radar magnificence spot is sprawling 5,200-acre park is in a protected state-managed space in Yankee Springs Township in Barry County close to the small cities of Middleville and Hastings.
It’s crammed with pristine, unspoilt surroundings lined in lakes, forests, and distinctive geological options like Satan’s Soupbowl, a function shaped by glacial exercise 1000’s of years in the past.
I really like the country and the way uncrowded it feels and for my part, it’s the proper vacation spot for nature lovers in search of someplace somewhat extra off-the-beaten monitor.
In addition to miles of scenic climbing and mountain biking trails ready to be explored there are nice alternatives for swimming within the lakes, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, fowl and wildlife recognizing and there are over 220 campsites to select from in addition to two cabins.
My highlights…
- Going boating on the scenic Gun Lake (there are leases obtainable right here).
- Staying in a single day on the Deep Lake Rustic Cabins, though the facilities have been very primary it got here with unbelievable lake views and made an incredible different to tent tenting.
8. Pere Marquette Park
That is one other beautiful and comparatively uncrowded hidden gem. Pere Marquette Park is positioned on the northernmost finish of Lake Michigan, which covers a 2.5-mile space owned by the town.
It’s a protected seashore park spanning over 27 acres dwelling to an extended sandy seashore, volleyball courts, picnic areas, eating places, playgrounds, a delegated swimming space with lifeguards (in season), and a picturesque lighthouse.
The seashore is surf-raked every day throughout the summer season season and there’s beautiful sunsets to be seen within the night.
Interesting to households and couple’s in search of a singular date spot, in addition to extra energetic sorts who love watersports as there’s masses on supply right here. You possibly can go kiteboarding, paddle-boarding, crusing, jet-skiing and windsurfing.
My favourite highlights…
- Having a picnic by the South Pier which was a peaceable and scenic spot.
- Photographing the historic Muskegon South Pierhead Mild.
9. The Crisp Level Lighthouse
Positioned within the state’s Higher Peninsula, it stands at 58 toes excessive and was first lit up in 1904. It’s fantastically preserved and I extremely suggest happening a guided tour right here the place you’ll be able to see beautiful lake views from very excessive up!
My favourite highlights…
- Taking photographs of the hanging lighthouse for my Instagram gallery.
- Having a picnic at a desk close to the lighthouse so we might simply sit, eat and stare upon it!
10. Historic Gaslight District, Petoskey
Petoskey is an enthralling and picturesque metropolis positioned on the shores of Little Traverse Bay in Lake Michigan within the northern a part of the state crammed with historic structure and attention-grabbing cultural scene. It additionally makes an incredible base for exploring the lake and all it has to supply.
My favourite a part of the laid again city is the Petoskey Gaslight District which has the repute of being top-of-the-line locations to buy within the state. It’s crammed with attention-grabbing unbiased shops, upscale boutiques, distinctive items, artwork galleries, charming eateries and cafes and fantastic eating places.
I completely love the pure fuel lighting which strains the road identical to it did way back, including to the district’s allure and likewise the views of Little Traverse Bay too.
My private highlights…
- Searching for quirky kitchenware within the Zany Kitchen store and distinctive souvenirs in Grandpa Shorter’s Items. I particularly beloved the regionally made items that they had.
- Eating at Chandler’s – a restaurant which had upscale American delicacies made with regionally sourced elements. Their freshly made California Rolls have been divine!
11. Silver Seashore County Park
This can be a much-loved park positioned in St. Joseph, alongside the shores of Lake Michigan which households, {couples} and out of doors lovers can’t appear to get sufficient of. The truth is it’s some of the standard seashore locations within the southwest area of the state.
In addition to being dwelling to an extended, huge sandy seashore there’s plenty of actions on supply right here together with swimming in the summertime (there’s a lifeguard on responsibility right here too), in addition to boating, crusing, kayaking, paddle-boarding, volleyball and scenic walks. Alternatively you’ll be able to simply chill out on the seashore, which is my favourite factor to do right here!
There’s additionally grills obtainable for barbecue, picnic tables, a pavilon you’ll be able to rent for particular occasions, and for kids a splash pad, the vintage-style Silver Seashore Carousel and the interactive Whirlpool Compass Fountain.
- Location: Southwest of the state
My favourite highlights…
- Taking a romantic sundown stroll alongside the South Pier and seeing beautiful views of each the lake and the hanging St.Joseph North Pier Lighthouse.
- Trying to find antiques and classic objects within the close by city of St.Jospeh which is dwelling to many quaint vintage shops.
12. Presque Isle Park
This tranquil magnificence spot is positioned alongside the shored of Lake Superior in Marquette. It’s a shocking peninsula crammed with over 323 acres of protected pure magnificence and attracts nature lovers and folks looking for out of doors adventures.
Its dwelling to glorious climbing trails, scenic drives, bicycle trails, untouched forests, sandstone cliffs, rocky outcrops, just a few secluded coves and sandy seashores.
There’s additionally alternatives for wildlife and fowl watching (white-tailed deer, racoons, snow geese and bald eagles stay right here)
My favourite highlights…
- Watching the courageous cliff jumpers within the Black Rocks space. The realm has distinctive surroundings with volcanic rocks contrasting with the intense blue waters of the lake.
- Climbing the straightforward paved two mile Presque Isle Loop which took me previous cliffs and exquisite sandy seashores.
13. Lower River Bridge State Roadside Park
Positioned alongside Freeway 2 in Mackinac County within the state’s Higher Peninsula close to the small group of Naubinway. This engaging protected space is dwelling to thick forests, climbing trails and views of Lake Michigan.
The most important attraction right here although is the hanging 641 toes lengthy metal bridge which was constructed in 1974 crosses the Lower River gorge and the distinction between this and the park’s pure magnificence is basically one thing particular! It’s a photographer’s dream!
My highlights…
- Parking in loads close by after which taking a really scenic stroll alongside the bridge. There’s a pedestrian path alongside the aspect and two most important view factors – the views listed below are critically jaw-dropping and somewhat vertigo-inducing on the similar!
14. The College of Michigan
This fantastic architectural landmark is likely one of the most prestigious public analysis universities within the nation and a preferred vacationer attraction.
Positioned in Ann Arbor, the College of Michigan was based in 1817 and covers practically 780 acres on its central campus. It has over 600 important buildings, greater than 45,000 college students, and practically 7,000 educational personnel. Many well-known individuals, together with former U.S. President Gerald Ford and quite a few billionaires, have attended the college.
It’s a formidable spot with an attention-grabbing mixture of Gothic, Beaux-Arts, and fashionable types and so they’re tremendous welcoming to guests too. I took a self-guided tour right here and so they supplied maps so it was simple to discover independently.
I like to recommend not lacking the spectacular buildings of the Regulation Quadrangle, Hill Auditorium, Burton Memorial Tower, Rackham Graduate College. Additionally the Botanical Gardens and Arboretum which has fairly trails, vegetation and gardens.
My private highlights…
- Exploring Ann Arbor after the college which has a youthful vibe with fantastic eating places, attention-grabbing bookstores, unbiased outlets and quaint cafes.
- My favourite a part of the buildings was the The Diag, a buzzy central inexperienced house the place college students collect.
15. Ludington State Park
This can be a standard out of doors vacation spot positioned alongside the shores of Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake close to the quaint lakeside city of Ludington. It’s beautiful protected surroundings is crammed with scenic shorelines, lake views, forested areas, sandy seashores, towering sand dunes, attention-grabbing wetlands, winding rivers and marshland.
Journey and nature lovers flock right here particularly throughout the summer season months and profit from the out of doors actions on supply which embrace swimming within the lakes, climbing on the miles of scenic trails, biking, kayaking, paddle-boarding and tubing down the river.
There are a selection of campgrounds for staying in a single day or alternatively choose one of many lodges, motels or hostels in close by Ludington.
My favourite highlights…
- Photographing the hanging black-and-white striped historic Massive Sable Level Lighthouse.
- Watching the unbelievable sundown over Lake Michigan which actually was an Instagram-worthy second!
- Climbing the straightforward two mile looped Misplaced Lake Path which took me alongside the sting of Misplaced Lake and Hamlin Lake for beautiful pure views.
16. Porcupine Mountains State Park
Affectionately often known as the “Porkies” this is likely one of the largest state park’s within the state and what a spot it’s! It’s surroundings is jaw-dropping with wild and rugged hilly terrain, thick forests, waterfalls and beautiful vistas. It’s one in all my private favourite pure areas within the state only for how distinctive the surroundings is right here.
Established in 1944, out of doors lovers flock right here to discover the scenic climbing trails, go swimming, mountaineering, kayaking, wildlife recognizing, paddle-boarding, tenting and becoming a member of the ranger-led nature applications on supply right here.
My private highlights…
- Climbing the statement tower at Summit Peak which had beautiful views of the encompassing forests and Lake Superior. I reached there simply by way of driving to the Summit Peak Scenic Space Parking Lot after which a brief hike.
- Exploring the fascinating ruins of Carp Lake Mine that are positioned within the park.
- Climbing the long-lasting Escarpment Path which runs over the dramatic Escarpment Ridge and provided unbelievable views.
17. Copper Harbor Trails
This unbelievable space is positioned in Copper Harbor, within the northern space of Keweenaw Penisula. It’s identified for its unbelievable system of trails the place world-class mountain bikers come to tackle the difficult terrain (and a few much less difficult – the paths cater for all ability ranges) and its really a part of the IMBA (Worldwide Mountain Bicycling Affiliation) Silver Stage Experience Middle.
It’s additionally dwelling to some glorious climbing trails, and a number of the greatest embrace the Brockway Mountain Path, a 9-mile hike with beautiful views from Brockway Mountain; the Keweenaw Level Path, a 6-mile reasonable hike providing serene forest and Lake Superior vistas; and The Movement, a 3-mile path which wind by means of the forest with light climbs.
The surroundings which the path system winds by means of is really beautiful and consists of dense forests, cliff edges, rock outcrops, the shores of Lake Superior, lake views and beautiful vistas. So I counsel bringing your digicam!
My favourite highlights…
- Climbing the distant Keweenaw Level Path which was a peaceable path the place I noticed beautiful views of Lake Superior and the picturesque Keweenaw Peninsula shoreline.
- Watching the unbelievable world-class mountain bikers right here!
18. Tahquamenon Falls
This magnificence spot is likely one of the state’s standard most pure points of interest! Positioned within the Higher Peninsula inside Tahquamenon Falls State Park, there’s really two falls in complete – the Higher Falls and the Decrease Falls each are critically spectacular and have the repute of being a number of the greatest falls within the nation.
The Higher Falls are 500 toes excessive and circulation with distinctive amber coloured waters and the Decrease Falls are smaller and may be seen 4 miles downstream.
Additionally take your take to discover the remainder of the park as its beautiful and is crammed with glorious climbing trails in addition to nice alternatives for kayaking, canoeing, wildlife and bird-watching.
My private highlights…
- Renting a ship for a better views of the unbelievable falls and getting superb movie footage on the similar time.
- Tenting in a single day in a country backcountry campground positioned within the park.
- Climbing the favored River Path which related each of the unbelievable falls!
19. Isle Royale Nationwide Park
Isle Royale was as soon as voted the least-visited nationwide park, however that’s a disgrace as a result of it has a lot to supply.
Though it’s distant and nearly inaccessible throughout the winter, the park provides cottages to hire to go boating and, better of all, plenty of animals to see, together with wolves and moose.
You possibly can go tenting there, hike or backpack by means of one in all their many trails, and even go to just a few lighthouses. The park is astounding as a result of its waters are good for all actions, and the shoreline and forests aren’t any much less extraordinary.