Michigan is beautiful all year round, even though our weather can range between Polar Vortex and easy-breezy from one day to the next. If you’re looking for a trip where you can visit places where you won’t have to worry about whether you'll need a swimsuit or a parka, then you need to check out these unique Michigan day trips. And we've compiled the perfect list: long enough to whet our wanderlust appetite, but short enough that we don't have to check the seven-day forecast to plan ahead. Here are a few of our favorite low-commitment MI day trips, no matter where you live.
1. Lake of the Clouds
The view alone should justify a stop at Lake of the Clouds in Ontonagon County in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. This gorgeous 60,000-acre state park is a stop you definitely won’t want to miss. It’s truly one of the hidden gems in Michigan!
2. Detroit museums
Detroit is a cultural treasure trove, complete with the Motown Museum (pictured above), the Detroit Institute of Art or the Michigan Science Center. Check out this list of great Detroit museums to visit.
3. Quincy Mining Company
The Quincy copper mines are near Hancock, Michigan. Take one of their many guided tours, and learn a little bit about the industrial history here in Michigan.
4. Windsor, Ontario
Take a quick transnational trip to Windsor, where you can travel north of the border to Canada. You may have to cross the border, but with the varied spread of amazing things to see and do, you’ll love every minute in our northern neighbor’s city.
5. Short's Brewing Company
Short's Brewing Company in Bellaire, Michigan is one of Michigan's most popular beer makers and worth a trip. Michigan craft beer doesn’t get any better than this awesome spot! Read more about their current offerings and tap room.
6. Michigan's Adventure
Looking for a thrill? Michigan's Adventure has you covered with arguably the best roller coasters in the state. As the largest water and amusement park in the state, this is one of the most fun places to visit in Michigan! Check out their hours of operation so you can plan your next trip.
7. Holland State Park
Take in some of Lake Michigan's beach culture at Holland State Park. Holland State Park has plenty of trails to stroll on, sugar sand beaches, and beautiful lighthouses. You’ll love to spend the day exploring at this beautiful spot.
8. Hipster Beach, Belle Isle
Detroit hipster types swear by this secret spot, which becomes inundated by springtime. Belle Isle has a ton of wonderful things to see, so bring a picnic and enjoy the views from one of the many beautiful spots on this little hidden gem in Detroit.
9. Henry Ford Museum
A National Historic Landmark in Dearborn, this ode to landmark moments in U.S. history are recreated here. It’s also a National Landmark, and filled with fascinating history. Be sure to check out their hours of operation so you know the perfect time to visit!
10. Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark
Here in Michigan, we don't let the at time treacherous weather get in the way of our water park fun. As Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark, there’s plenty of ways to have fun in this amazing indoor adventure park. 88,000 square feet holds seven waterslides, four pools, and ten restaurants!
11. Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth is not just for Christmas. This German-theme town is great for food, beer and taking in a bit of European culture. The entire town is filled with fun all year long! And don’t forget to try one of their world famous pint sized chicken dinners.
12. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
This destination is location in Grand Rapids Township and is a 158-acre botanical garden and outdoor sculpture park. This mind blowing park will get you outside and immersed in the most beautiful gardens, and among the flowers and sculptures. When you plan a visit, don’t forget to hit the kid’s gardens!
13. Mackinac Island
This iconic resort area covers almost 4 square miles in land area in Lake Huron. Note, be sure to leave your car behind, as the island is vehicle-free. You’ll love exploring this beautiful town and everything it has to offer. Book a night at one of their spectacular bed and breakfasts, and relax as you enjoy this unique experience in Michigan.
Have you ever experienced any of these unique MI day trips? What did you think? Hopefully, by now you are inspired to get out of the house to explore some of our favorite road trip destinations. Please tell us how your trip goes, and if you know of someplace you think we should add, let us know and say something in the comments below.
If you’re looking for more fun things to explore in Michigan, make sure you check out this list of fun day trips in Michigan.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
