4 Exciting Places in Michigan Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2026

With 2026 on the horizon, it is the perfect time to look ahead to Michigan’s most exciting travel stories. From cultural milestones to new places to enjoy the outdoors to art exhibits, there is so much to discover in the Wolverine State. If you are planning a trip, check out these four exciting places to visit next year in Michigan.

1. Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids is the place to be in 2026, boasting several projects that will enhance its cultural landscape and connection to the Grand River. Lyon Square, a public space along the Grand Rapids Riverwalk, received a major remodel this year. Don’t miss its debut as a venue for immersive light shows at World of Winter in 2026, the largest free winter festival in the U.S. For more art, check out an exhibition of Dale Chihuly’s work at the renowned Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park starting in May. 

This spring, the Grand Rapids Public Museum is set to reopen after a $50 million expansion, including the restoration of the 1928 Spillman Carousel. Along the river, the new 12,000-seat Acrisure Amphitheater will host a grand opening in May, and construction will begin to add rapids back into the Grand River. Even if you only have a few hours in Grand Rapids, there are so many fun ways enjoy the city.

2. Traverse City

The Cherry Capital of the World will celebrate a sweet milestone in July for the 100th anniversary of the National Cherry Festival. The festival began in 1925 as the “Blessing of the Blossoms” and has grown to draw 500,000 people each year to Traverse City to celebrate. The centennial Cherry Festival will include live performances, carnival rides, and local food—with a cherry on top.

3. Ann Arbor

The charming college town of Ann Arbor has a new public space to enjoy along the Huron River. Opened this fall, Broadway Park West is a 7-acre riverfront park with a direct path to downtown. The former industrial site has transformed into a community gathering place featuring green space, trees, and paved trails. Future development will include an event pavilion and ice ribbon.

4. Detroit

Things are always moving in the Motor City, and Detroit will celebrate cultural milestones throughout the city in 2026. The Heidelberg Project, the beloved outdoor art installation in the McDougall Hunt neighborhood, will mark its 40th anniversary. The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) will celebrate 20 years in Midtown with exhibitions from artists Carole Harris, Martha Mysko, and Olayami Dabls. The Motown Museum’s ongoing $75 million expansion project will wrap up in October, featuring a new building for exhibits, recording, performance, and a cafe. If you are planning a visit, this one-day Detroit road trip can help you make the most of your time.

From new public spaces to cultural milestones, there is plenty to experience in Michigan in 2026. If you're feeling inspired to book a trip to the Great Lakes State, try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.