Summertime is here in the Great Lakes State, and that means it’s time to get out and enjoy all the incredible attractions Michigan has to offer — both natural and manmade. It’s not always possible to take a long-term vacation, but don’t let that stop you from planning an amazing getaway. Here are 12 incredible day trips you can take here in Michigan.

1. Outdoor Discovery Center
4214 56th St, Holland, MI 49423, USA
TripAdvisor/management
Venture to Holland for a day of learning and natural discovery at this awesome nature preserve and educational center. Get up-close and personal with all sorts of creatures, learn about ecosystems, or simply take a walk through the surrounding trail system with your kiddos. We promise you’ll leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated!
2. Lake St. Clair Metropark
31300 Metro Parkway, Harrison Twp, MI 48045, USA
Facebook/Lake St. Clair Metropark
Beat the heat with a day trip to this one-of-a-kind waterpark and pool situated within the gorgeous Lake St. Clair Metropark. Whether you’re splashing in the waves, walking along the nearby lake itself, or picnicking among the greenery, we can’t imagine a more delightful destination. Read more about Lake St. Clair.
3. Lakenenland
2800 M-28, Marquette, MI 49855, USA
TripAdvisor/MichiganLifer77
If you find yourself near Marquette, this fascinating sculpture park is an absolute must-see. You’ll walk a trail featuring more than 80 one-of-a-kind works of art created out of scrap metal, and the experience is nothing short of whimsical. From the political to the personal, there’s something here to delight every member of the family. Want to learn more? Take a look at our previous piece here.
4. Greenfield Village
20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124, USA
Yelp/David M.
History buffs and curious explorers alike will have a blast at Greenfield Village, a key element of the wonderful Henry Ford museum complex. Ride in a real Model T, marvel at a working blacksmith shop, or mingle with historic re-enactors. You’ll wonder if you’ve stepped into a time machine and landed smack dab in the middle of Michigan’s past. Read more about Greenfield Village.
5. Crystal Mountain
12500 Crystal Mountain Dr, Thompsonville, MI 49683, USA
Facebook/Crystal Mountain
There's no shortage of excitement to be had at this four-season resort in Thompsonville, which offers gorgeous scenery and a wide array of activities. Don’t worry: you don’t have to book a stay at the resort itself to enjoy all that Crystal Mountain has to offer. Take a scenic chairlift ride or zoom down the mountainside on an alpine coaster. You’re sure to have a blast!
6. Michigan’s Adventure
1198 W Riley-Thompson Rd, Muskegon, MI 49445, USA
Facebook/Michigan's Adventure
Roller coasters, water slides, and delicious junk food — what’s not to love? When you spend the day at Michigan’s Adventure, you’ll feel like a kid again, no matter what your age. This amazing waterpark in Muskegon has been entertaining Michiganders for decades, and it’s the perfect place to spend a summer day. There are lots of great options for fun here, including the ever-popular WildWater Adventure.

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7. Manistique
Manistique, MI 49854, USA
TripAdvisor/raraavis17
This Upper Peninsula town truly offers a magical experience for visitors. Explore Kitch-iti-Kipi, a breathtaking natural spring that boasts turquoise waters and stunning views of the forest. Walk along Lake Michigan, do a little shopping, and round out your day trip with a meal at Marley’s Bar & Grill. Does it get much better than this? Learn more about Manistique..
8. Windmill Island Gardens
1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI 49423, USA
TripAdvisor/RedBeard1969
Want to take a trip to Europe without breaking the bank (or using up all your vacation days)? You’re in luck! Head to Holland and make-believe that you’ve ventured to the Netherlands when you stroll through Windmill Island. This fascinating park boasts a real 250-year-old windmill, plenty of wooden shoes, and tulip gardens galore. Find out more by reading our previous feature on Windmill Island.
9. Round Barn Winery
10983 Hills Rd, Baroda, MI 49101, USA
TripAdvisor/management
Who doesn’t love a delicious glass of wine on a warm summer afternoon? If you want to spend your day unwinding with loved ones, look no further than Round Barn Winery. This beautiful locale offers wine tastings, plenty of gorgeous scenery, and friendly service to match. You’ll certainly come home with a bottle or two. Read more about Round Barn Winery.
10. Detroit Riverfront
Facebook/Detroit Riverfront
Don’t let the negative headlines about Detroit fool you: our state’s largest city has plenty to offer visitors young and old. One awesome attraction is the Detroit Riverfront, which is just what its name suggests: a pathway and park area stretching along the banks of the stunning Detroit River. Check out Milliken State Park or try your hand at fishing -- either way, you’ll have a memorable experience. Find out more about the Detroit Riverfront.
11. Calumet
Calumet Township, Calumet Twp, MI, USA
TripAdvisor/OMG1152
This lovely town in the Upper Peninsula boasts a fascinating history and a firsthand look into the copper mining tradition that makes Michigan so unique. While Calumet now houses under 800 residents, it’s overflowing with charm. Check out the Coppertown USA Mining Museum or simply take a stroll through downtown. To learn more, read our previous piece here.
12. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, USA
Yelp/Erika R.
Make the trip to Grand Rapids for a fascinating trip to one of the state’s most unique attractions. Whether you’re exploring a temporary art exhibit, marveling at the botanical gardens, or perusing scores of beautiful outdoor sculptures, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a gorgeous new world. Check out more about Frederick Meijer Gabe; this article.

Have you embarked on any of these wonderful day trips in the Great Lakes State? What was your experience like? We’d love to hear your thoughts and suggestions in the comment section below!

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More to Explore

Best Day Trips in Michigan

Danielle Schwartz | May 01, 2022

What are the most beautiful beaches in Michigan?

There are lots of beautiful beaches in Michigan, and many of them are off the beaten path. Even if you've lived in the Great Lakes State for a while, you may not have gotten a chance to go to all of the best spots. You can enjoy a day trip to the lovely Sand Point Beach to gaze at the lovely Lake Superior and appreciate the gorgeous blue water. This beach is located in the Upper Peninsula, and it's worth a trip even if you're not nearby. Another beach that will be one of your new favorites is Oscoda Beach Park. You won't believe the beauty of the clear water of Lake Huron. We're willing to bet you'll be back again and again!

What is the hottest month of the year in Michigan?

The hottest month of the year in the state is July. It's definitely warm enough to go to the beach or take one of the pretty hiking trails in Michigan. The average high is 82 degrees and the average low is 62 degrees, making July the ideal month for spending lots of time outside. Instead of having to stay inside all day, or only use the gym, you can get lots of fresh air and outdoor exercise in the summer in Michigan. Just make sure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the strong sun this time of year!

How many state parks are in Michigan?

There are 101 state parks in Michigan! With so many incredible nature hikes from which to choose, it can be hard to decide which ones to visit on a warm summer's day. You'll definitely want to see more than one of the areas since their natural beauty varies so much from park to park. One great option to see as many as you can is to take a state park road trip through Michigan to see six state parks in just a few days. These options are lesser-known, so you'll get to take part in experiences that not too many other people have gotten to have.

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