Here in Michigan, we take our road trips pretty seriously. The Wolverine State offers so much in the way of natural beauty, local businesses, and midwestern charm that it seems only fitting to hop in the car and explore every square mile. If you’re up for what promises to be an unforgettable adventure, we’ve put together a road trip that will take you to some of the most beautiful waterfalls and best wineries in Michigan.

The itinerary is over 700 miles of pure Michigan beauty, but don’t worry — we’ve pinpointed some great places to stay along the way so you can safely pace yourself and make the most of your adventure. Just be sure to get an early start, as the first leg of our trip will take you to no fewer than four gorgeous Upper Peninsula waterfalls before you’ll check into your room at a conveniently-located Best Western property in Michigan. Ready to get started on this unforgettable road trip in Michigan? Let’s go!

1. Bond Falls
Bond Falls, Haight Township, MI 49912, USA
Sandra J / 500px / Getty Images
The first stop on this wine and waterfalls tour is the iconic Bond Falls. Located in southern Ontonagon County, this beautiful cascade is created by the middle branch of the Ontonagon River, which tumbles over rocks and creates the most stunning spectacle. The waterfall is approximately 50 feet tall and twice as wide. If you plan to see the falls on foot, the loop trail is approximately one mile long.

Curious about what to expect at Bond Falls? Check out this jaw-dropping video c/o YouTube User M Live:
2. Laughing Whitefish Falls
Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park, Rock River Township, MI 49885, USA
Paul Lehman / Google
Considered by many visitors to be the most beautiful waterfall in Michigan, Laughing Whitefish Falls is truly bucket-list-worthy. This mesmerizing waterfall can be found within Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park, a recreation area of nearly 1,000 acres. The waterfall is surrounded by old-growth trees, providing an immersive experience in nature. Best of all, it's just 0.5 miles to get there from the parking area.
3. Munising Falls
Munising Falls, Munising, MI 49862, USA
Google Maps
The next waterfall on our itinerary takes us into Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Munising Falls makes a dramatic 50-foot drop over a sandstone cliff. Visitors should note that compared to other waterfalls on this list, the amount of water flow is relatively small. The scenery, however, is positively spectacular. You'll reach the waterfall by following a quarter-mile paved walkway.

As you can see in the YouTube video c/o Michigan Rocks, this waterfall is absolutely magnificent in person!
4. Miners Falls
Yuqi Zhao / Google
Not far from Munising Falls, Miners Falls is another Upper Peninsula waterfall worth checking out. This striking waterfall is accessible via a 0.6-mile gravel pathway that leads to stairs to an overlook. You'll want to bring your camera with you for this one!

After exploring so many waterfalls in one day, you can stay the night at the Best Western Saulte Ste. Marie or the Best Western Harbour Pointe Lakefront, both conveniently located along the route!

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5. Mackinaw Trail Winery Tasting Room
Mackinaw Trail Winery Tasting Room, 180 S Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701, USA
Jeff Lepley / Google
One of the best parts of traveling in Michigan is the chance to experience some incredible local businesses, and Mackinaw Trail Winery is one such example. It's here that you'll find a laid-back setting perfect for tasting some Michigan-made wine. And for those in the mood for something else, this tasting room venue also offers microbrews.

Need a place to stay after enjoying this first winery? Best Western Plus Dockside Waterfront Inn or Best Western River Terrace make for excellent options.
6. Ocqueoc Falls
Ocqueoc Falls, Ocqueoc Township, MI 49759, USA
Dan Pokriefka / Google
Michigan's Lower Peninsula doesn't have much in the way of waterfalls, but there is one exception: Ocqueoc Falls. Accessible via US-23, this beautiful landmark has a little something for everyone. It's here that you can enjoy a network of hiking trails and places to picnic.
7. Bonobo Winery
Bonobo Winery, 12011 Center Rd, Traverse City, MI 49685, USA
Bonobo Winery / Google
Next up on our trip is another local winery you'll love: Bonobo Winery. It's over three hours from Ocqueoc Falls, but it's absolutely worth the journey. To break up the drive, you can spend the night at the Best Western Gaylord. Bonobo Winery describes itself as a "social gathering place" where visitors from all over can kick back and relax. After so many waterfall excursions, you'll have earned a good break! This boutique winery near Traverse City is positively beautiful. Plus, their offerings of red and white wine will impress just about any wine enthusiast.

For a great place to stay in this lovely region of Michigan, check out Best Western Plus Traverse City.
8. Valley Mist Vineyards
Valley Mist Vineyards, 2498 N M33, Rose City, MI 48654, USA
Country Corner Winery-Valley Mist Vineyards / Facebook
Valley Mist Vineyards is a small-town winery with a lot to offer. Semi-sweet white wines, sweet white wines, dry red wines, and sweet red wines all await you inside this one-of-a-kind tasting room. And the best news of all? Tastings are free! You will, of course, be tempted to purchase a bottle after experiencing all that this local spot has to offer.

You'll have quite a drive ahead of you, so be sure to stop over for the night at Best Western Plus of Birch Run.
9. Black Fire Winery
Black Fire Winery, 1261 E Munger Rd, Tecumseh, MI 49286, USA
Angelique Robinson / Google
Our trip concludes with a visit to Black Fire Winery. Tucked away in a picturesque rural setting, this winery is the perfect place to reflect on your waterfall and winery road trip. The moment you arrive, you'll feel welcomed as though you were a local. Sample all kinds of quality Michigan-made wine and perhaps even rent a private igloo to share with your loved ones.

Need one last place to stay the night? There are plenty of Best Western properties near Detroit, such as the Best Western Woodhaven Inn.

What are your thoughts on this waterfall and wineries road trip in Michigan? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you! And don’t forget to find the closest Best Western property near you for a convenient and restful place to stay as you travel.

Looking for more amazing wineries in MI? Our state is one of the best wine-growing regions in the country!

More to Explore

Wineries in Michigan

Sarah M. | February 14, 2023

Are there many wineries in Michigan?

There are! As evidenced in the above road trip to the best wineries and waterfalls in Michigan, our state is blessed with an abundance of vineyards and wine regions that are every oenophile's dream come true. The splendor of #PureMichigan extends far beyond its pristine lakes and isles, with the Great Lakes State home to a burgeoning wine country worthy of any oenophile's attention. Within the state, 55% of Michigan’s wine grapes are grown in the Traverse City region. The Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas are designated as American Viticultural Areas, in fact; together, the 40+ wineries throughout the area make up what's commonly known as the Traverse Wine Coast. Some must-visit vineyards in Michigan include:

  • Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn. This impossibly picturesque place offers a taste of French-inspired charm right in the Great Lakes State. You’ll wonder if you’ve been swept away to the vineyards of Italy when you arrive at Chateau Chantal Winery, which sits on the Old Mission Peninsula and remains proud of its status as one of Michigan’s's oldest wineries. Through the end of October, you can enjoy the fall colors surrounding the winery and set aside some time to taste the unique beverages produced on-site.
  • Mari Vineyards. This MI winery and vineyard has a stunning, 31,000 square feet facility that's straight out of the Old Country.
  • Black Star Farms. This locale in Suttons Bay sits among some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable, and you’ll be enamored as soon as you arrive. With two wineries, tasting rooms, an on-site restaurant, equestrian facilities, and even an inn, there’s truly something here for everything. You’ll be especially charmed by Black Star when it’s cloaked in the beauty of fall foliage.
  • Robinette’s Apple House and Winery. Perhaps you’ve visited Robinette’s in the fall to pick up a few apples or sip on a cup of cider, but did you know that this Grand Rapids favorite also features an on-site winery? With over 20 wines and hard ciders available, you’re sure to find your new favorite fall beverage when you stop in at this delightful day trip destination in Michigan.
  • Cherry Creek Cellars. Tucked away in an amazing 1870 schoolhouse, this winery is absolutely one-of-a-kind. Using old world wine-crafting methods, Cherry Creek produces some of the most delicious and satisfying tastes imaginable, and you’ll want to take home a bottle of each variety. The surrounding land is stunning, and this is one autumn excursion you’ll certainly never forget.

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