Posted in Michigan
January 04, 2017
10 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In Michigan Before You Die
Road trips are a blast no matter where you’re headed, but there’s something undeniably special about exploring your own backyard. The next time you’ve got an urge to hit the road, consider checking out one of these awesome trips throughout the Great Lakes State. Here are ten unforgettable routes to follow.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate


This trip will lead you through everything from a spooky psychiatric facility that’s long abandoned to Detroit’s famous Michigan Central Station. While it’s fun to observe these decaying structures from outside, please remember that trespassing is against the law — so enter at your own risk.


Spread this trip out over a weekend to make sure you have time to explore and admire each and every lighthouse. Marvel at the bright beauty of Big Red at Holland State Park and snap pictures of the gorgeous lighthouse at Sturgeon Point. This is one road trip that will utterly charm you.

Google Maps

Flickr/Jim Liestman
We all know that Michigan is home to some truly amazing waterfalls. When you follow this route, you’ll have a chance to explore the absolute best of the best. From Bond Falls to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, you’ll be blown away by the elegant yet fierce beauty of these natural wonders.


Are you in the mood to be spooked? No matter what time of year, visiting these haunted spots in the Great Lakes State will certainly send shivers down your spine. Look out for ghosts at the Felt Mansion and head out at night for a chance to see the mysterious Paulding Light. This adventure is not for the faint of heart.


Ready to explore the best that Michigan has to offer in the way of natural beauty? It would take ages to see every gorgeous attraction in our state, but this road trip will give you a solid overview. Take a boat tour at Pictured Rocks, peruse Ann Arbor’s Nichols Arboretum, or run down the dunes at Sleeping Bear.


If you’re charmed by quaint covered bridges, this is the perfect trip for you. From Frankenmuth’s Holz-Brucke Bridge to the Pierce Stocking Covered Bridge at Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan is home to some of the country’s most delightful bridges — and you’ll want to see them for yourself.


This trip follows the Huron Shores Heritage Route, which covers 200 miles of shoreline along US-23. Stop in and stay a while at each town along the way — from Standish to Mackinaw City. The east coast of Michigan is sometimes forgotten in favor of the Lake Michigan shore, so take time out to appreciate the Mitten State’s other amazing coastline.


What could be more delightful than a tour of the state’s best small towns? We’ve got plenty of them, and they’re just waiting to be explored. Check out a variety of art galleries in Saugatuck, experience Bavarian charm in Frankenmuth, or venture northward to St. Ignace.


History buffs and urban explorers will enjoy this road trip, which takes drivers through a variety of abandoned towns that once played key roles in the copper industry during the 19th century. From Dollar Bay to Mandan, this ghost town tour will awake your inner historian and leave you with an eerie feeling.


Set aside three days for this mouthwatering adventure, which will take you to some of Michigan’s most incredible eateries. No matter what type of cuisine you prefer, there’s something for you on this list — and once you check out these nine restaurants, you’ll certainly be back for seconds.
So, there you have it: 10 awesome road trips to embark on in the upcoming year. All you need now is a loved one to fill the passenger seat, a map, and a full tank of gas. Adventure awaits you — now go explore!