26 Exciting Things to Do in Michigan in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

If you were to ask me which Midwestern states are my favorites, Michigan easily tops my list. Between the friendly faces, incredible natural wonders, the beautiful seasons, and historic cities, there is so much to love—and see and do—in the Great Lakes State.

To help satisfy my adventurous side this coming year, I've compiled a handy list of 26 amazing things to do in Michigan in 2026. While some are pretty popular tourist attractions, others are hidden gems that locals return to time and time again. Which will you be adding to your bucket list? Read on to find out.

1. Hike Mosquito and Chapel Falls Trail - Munising

One of my favorite things to do in Michigan is take a nice, long hike. In 2026, I want to conquer the 10-mile loop trail to the most beautiful waterfalls in Michigan. There are stunning views of Lake Michigan along the way, and a gorgeous beach to sink your toes in the sand. It's no wonder the Mosquito Falls & Chapel Falls Trail is Michigan's most popular hiking trail.

2. Dine at Amore de Roma - Detroit

This coming year, I can't wait to eat at Amore de Roma, the single oldest family-run restaurant in Michigan. Indulge in all the classics, from baked lasagna to tortellini, pasta, fettuccine, chicken, beef, veal... You name it, Amore de Roma's got it, and it's amazing. Since its opening in 1890, the staff has been serving up the most authentic dishes. Just be sure to make a reservation, as this spot is quite popular.

3. Stay at This Riverfront Cabin - Baldwin

Nestled right along the shores of the Pere Marquette River, known as a "National Wild and Scenic River," in the town of Baldwin, is this amazing vacation home rental. The two-bedroom Craftsman cabin is perfect for groups and has comfy furnishings, a tandem kayak, a canoe, and fishing poles (this river is known for fishing). It's one of the most unique stays in Michigan to visit in 2026.

4. Celebrate Winter - Michigan

Winter in Michigan is an amazing time of year. Yes, it gets quite cold, but that's part of the charm. The folks who live here are used to it, being pretty hardy and celebrating the season despite the chill. I love celebrating here with awesome holiday festivals, ice skating rinks, holiday towns, light displays, and so much more. It's a romantic season, if you ask me, with many opportunities to celebrate.

5. The Best City to Visit in Michigan in 2026 - Detroit

Detroit, Michigan, often gets a bad rap, which is terribly unfair. It's a vibrant city with friendly faces, awesome museums, parks, historic places, and natural wonders. The possibilities for adventure and fun are endless. Some of my favorite Detroit attractions include camping near Blue Heron Lagoon and visiting Calder Dairy for ice cream. This city is much more vibrant than you'd expect—you just need to know where to look.

6. Stay at the Shinola Hotel - Detroit

The gorgeous Shinola Hotel in downtown Detroit is a luxurious stay with all the amenities you could hope for. Enjoy the hotel's gourmet restaurant and bar or visit nearby attractions like Music Hall Center, the Fillmore District, and the Gem Theatre. If you're planning a Detroit trip in 2026, this is the place to stay.

7. Embark on a Day Trip - Michigan

Michigan is the perfect state for a classic day trip. I've made all kinds of day trips across the state, from exploring small towns and parks to immersing myself in natural wonders and more. Some ideas: Wander the pier at the Wawatam Lighthouse, experience a classic drive-in movie at The Cherry Bowl, or take a scenic drive along Lake Michigan.

8. Explore State Parks - Michigan

Michigan is home to 103 incredible state and national parks—exploring them is one of my favorite things to do. Make 2026 the year you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Great Lakes State. If you buy an America the Beautiful pass, you can visit the state's myriad parks and forests at a much lower cost. The first on my list is Tahquamenon Falls State Park (more on this site soon!).

9. Celebrate Spring - Michigan

Spring in Michigan is nothing short of awe-inspiring. I've got a handful of ideas for the best things to do this spring, including visiting otherworldly spring flower blooms at Lakeport State Park to stargazing in the Upper Peninsula or at the Lake Hudson Recreation Area. Everything's blooming and simply beautiful this time of year.

11. Explore Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls - Paradise

The largest waterfall in Michigan is Tahquamenon Falls, which has two parts: Upper Falls and Lower Falls. The surrounding trail and scenery looks like something out of a fantasy novel. You might get a little wet while hiking the 10.2-mile out-and-back trail, so be sure to bring waterproof gear and sturdy shoes, as it's also rated moderately challenging.

12. Take a Spontaneous Road Trip - Michigan

Day trips also often mean road trips, and Michigan is one of the best places to do that. Some of my all-time favorite road trips include cruising along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, the M-22 which hugs Lake Michigan, or a dreamy ride to a nearby lighthouse. A natural wonders-themed road trip is also a must-do. Which scenic drives are you checking off in 2026?

13. Stay at The Inn at Stonecliffe - Mackinac Island

One of the most amazing places in Michigan is Mackinac Island. And the best place to stay while there? The Inn at Stonecliffe. With 47 beautiful rooms, it's not the biggest place around, but it's certainly lovely. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the on-property restaurant or a craft cocktail at the lounge bar. You'll want to book a weekend getaway to this charming island again and again.

14. Attend Great Lakes Surf Festival - Muskegon

Muskegon, Michigan, is the unofficial surf town in the state. Every year, it hosts the Great Lakes Surf Festival—a must-see attraction for every Midwesterner. The festival will return for its 8th season in August 2026, with a surf competition, lessons, yoga on the beach, and a kids' play area. It's one of the best summer festival in Michigan by far. Visit the festival website for more information.

15. Swim at Torch Lake - Traverse City

There's no shortage of things to do in Michigan in the summer. It's when locals come out of their shells to enjoy their state's beauty. One of the best ways to celebrate is by taking a classic summer vacation—I recommend near the crystal blue waters of Torch Lake. Its sand and turqouise hues make you feel like you're in the Caribbean.

16. Enjoy Dinner at RyeBelles - Saint Joseph

Ryebelles is a popular spot for date nights, anniversaries, and other special occasions, especially in the summer. The rooftop dining aspect is excellent, too, adding a whole new level of "fancy" to the affair. You can't go wrong with a diverse menu featuring seafood, salads, sandwiches, steaks, and more. It's truly a special spot in Saint Joseph and, admittedly, I'm a little obsessed. This may be one of the best restaurants in Michigan.

17. Visit a Covered Bridge - Grand Rapids

History lovers will delight in visiting this 150-year-old covered bridge in Michigan. The Fallasburg Bridge was built in 1871 and, to this day, is the only bridge still standing here in Grand Rapids. It's also one of three remaining covered bridges in the state where cars can still cross through, too. It's definitely worth a visit to this historical landmark in 2026.

18. Explore a Small Town - Bay City

With a population of just over 32,000, the town of Bay City is almost too big to call a town anymore. It sits on the banks of Saginaw Bay and overlooks the water, with the famed US-23 Heritage Route meandering straight through. There are museums, eateries, restaurants, parks, and just about anything else you could hope for. I can't wait to visit this coming year—it's one of my favorite small towns in Michigan.

19. Stay at a Frank Lloyd Wright Home - Okemos

The Goetsch-Winckler House was designed and built by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1940, and today, you can spend a few nights in it. Set atop a breathtaking knoll in Okemos, and featuring more than 24 floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the home with natural light, this is a vacation home you'll wish you lived in. I sure do, as I'm a huge fan of Wright's work.

20. Explore Wagner Falls - Munising

Wagner Falls is probably one of my all-time favorite hidden gems in Michigan. It's gorgeous, and the brief hike to reach it isn't difficult. A decent portion of the trail is a boardwalk, making it a great kid-friendly trek. You'll wander through the woods alongside Wagner Creek until you reach the cascade, which is easily one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Michigan.

21. See the Mystery Spot - St. Ignace

The Mystery Spot is a strange and delightful roadside attraction in St. Ignace, Michigan. Why is it a mystery spot? For whatever reason, when it was discoverd in the 1950s, equipment wouldn't work properly in the area—it's still a mystery today. I love exploring this area, including the crooked house you can walk through and other odd anomalies. It's strange, disorienting, and... super fun.

22. Celebrate Fall - Michigan

Autumn in Michigan is one of my favorite times of year—especially when the fall foliage is in full swing. The best part has to be the fall festivals and how seriously Michiganders take them. Some notable events include Fall Fest in downtown Holland, the Charlevoix Apple Festival, and the Detroit Fall Beer Festival, all of which are happening in October 2026. Whether you're looking to romp through a pumpkin patch or drink apple cider, our state has it all in the fall.

23. Discover Spooky Ghost Towns - Pere Cheney

Pere Cheney is a very small ghost town in which almost nothing remains, save for the old cemetery. Rumors about the town's history—from being under an old curse to having been built on old Indigenous burial grounds—have carried. Whether you believe the rumors or not, it's still an eerie place. If you're looking for a haunting, yet somehow relaxing, place to visit in 2026, this town is it.

24. Discover a Natural Spring - Upper Peninsula

Looking for an all-new experience in 2026? Why not visit Kitch Iti Kipi, Michigan's largest natural spring. Located within Palms Brook State Park in the Upper Peninsula, the spring's water is placid and calm, and fills the entire area with tranquility. After taking a dip in the cool water, explore the several trails, campgrounds, and viewing spots at the spring—it's the perfect escape any time of year.

25. Hike the Saugatuck Dunes South Trail - Holland

This awe-inspiring, 5-mile loop trail is located right within Saugatuck Dunes State Park, and provides a moderately challenging hike to some of the best beachfront views. Hikers can explore little offshoot trails along the way—some leading to rolling dunes overlooking the lake. It's one the most peaceful places to visit in Michigan.

26. Tour the Air Zoo Museum - Kalamazoo

This coming year, I hope to learn a little more about Michigan's state history. Taking a trip to the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Musuem in Kalamazoo is a great way to do so. The museum is home to more than 100 rare and historic air and space artifacts, as well as flight simulators, rides, a theater, and historical exhibits. It's a great place to bring the whole family—kids will love the hands-on activities.

There you have it: 26 incredible things to do in Michigan in 2026. From natural wonders to historic places, restaurants, parks, and more, there's no shortage of amazing things to do—all year, every year! If you've already started making plans, consider using Only In Your State's itinerary planner to flesh out lodging, dining, and other accommodations.