4 Michigan Tourist Spots I Tried To Hate (But Ended up Loving)

Anytime I hear someone talking about Michigan, gorgeous landscapes, an unparalleled industrial history, and underappreciated art always come to my mind. Yet, there are spots throughout the state that tourists may flock to, which can make them less enjoyable or overrated. Some of the items on this list definitely fit that bill. Even if these spots are eye-rollingly typical for an out-of-towner like myself, I adore them—and, hopefully, you will too!

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Empire

I have seen video after video about Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore—but not about the incredible scenery or visitors simply enjoying the space. No, they were about the strenuous climb back up the dunes from the bottom. The videos came with tons of comments criticizing the dunes for being a waste of time or overrated. Don't get me wrong, I have zero desire to climb the dunes (or pay the thousands of dollars to be rescued when I get stranded). Even so, I will never get over the views from the dunes or how special it is to have the world's largest freshwater dune system right here in the Midwest. You don't have to be a peak athlete to enjoy this spot.

2. American Coney Island - Detroit

We had to eat at American Coney Island. That's what my Michigander friend told me when I visited him in Detroit. Yet, even as a Chicago transplant, the last seven years have made me quite dedicated to the standard Chicago dog. That meant a Coney Dog was probably not going to compete—let alone one served in a diner that tourists visit. After eating at this cozy diner in the city, though, my mind was forever changed. If you're visiting Detroit for the first time, you should get a Coney slathered in mustard, meat sauce, and onions (I hold the onions). And you'd better try it at the comfy American Coney Island, which has been serving up dogs since 1917.

3. Grand Hotel - Mackinac Island

Between the gardens and the world's longest porch, tourists stake out the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island like it's going out of style. Even if it's packed, you need to check out this 1887 grand dame hotel. A Victorian era beauty, there's a reason it has been such a beloved institution for so long. It could be packed shoulder to shoulder like New Year's Eve at EPCOT, and I would still adore this spot.

4. B. Nektar Meadery Taproom & Production Facility - Ferndale

I don't like beer—never have and never will. This means I am always a party pooper when my friends want to go to a distillery. Leave it to a Michigan meadery to teach me that not all taprooms are treated equally. If B. Nektar isn't on your radar yet, it should be. This no-frills meadery is a terrific spot for friend hangouts and sampling sweet meads, beers, and ciders just outside of Detroit.

Feeling inspired? Try out the Only In Your State AI Travel Planner before your next Midwestern adventure to make it a little more special.