Let’s be real: donuts are one of the greatest creations mankind has ever produced. Whether you’re a fan of all things chocolate, fruit-filled delights, or something in between, there’s truly nothing better than digging into a carefully crafted donut when your sugar cravings strike. If you’re a Michigander with an intense love for donuts, you’ll have the time of your life following this epic donut trail to some of the best donuts in Michigan.
1. Holy Moly Donut Shop, Detroit
Known for crazy combos and a funky aesthetic, you can literally have your cake (donut) and eat it too at this delightful donut shop in Detroit! Pro tip: go off-script at Holy Moly and order a loaded cinnamon roll. Yum!
2. Sweetwater’s Donut Mill, Kalamazoo
To access the next leg of your delicious journey, you’ll have to make a two-hour drive, but trust us when we say that the car time will pay off. After all, you’ll want to give your stomach some space to make room for more tasty treats! When you arrive at the original Sweetwater's location on Stadium Drive, you’ll find a 24-hour shop that features a drive-thru and inventive flavors galore. From classics like cake donuts with sprinkles to unique flavors like Snickers, there’s plenty to indulge in. Pro tip: Order the Donut of the Week... whatever it is, you won't be disappointed!
3. Donutville, Holland
Next, head up the Lake Michigan shoreline to the coastal city of Holland, which houses one of the state’s most underrated donut shops. Donutville might not catch your eye from the outside, but trust us when we say that there’s magic waiting here. This enduring locale seems unchanged by the hands of time, offering a decidedly modest interior paired with donuts that will absolutely amaze your taste buds.
4. Groovy Donuts, Lansing
Drive eastward toward Michigan’s capital region and stop at Groovy Donuts in East Lansing, a vibrant and welcoming spot that prides itself on offering "peace, love, and donuts." The eats here are prepared daily with care and attention to detail, so you can be certain that you’ll leave with a smile on your face. In fact, this groovy little hotspot specializes in fun, funky, and custom treats that are just as fun to ogle as eat! You’ll even find gluten-free and vegan donuts on the menu here, so everyone can appreciate this stop along the trail.
5. Donna’s Donuts, Flint
Next up is Donna’s Donuts, a Flint gem that has kept sugar fiends satisfied since 1962. Guests rave about the shop’s friendly service, freshly made deliciousness, and timeless charm. While the decidedly old-school vibe is one draw, the eatery’s fantastic confections are the real star of the show: flavorful, well-frosted and filled, and affordable baked donuts are the name of the game here. It really doesn’t get much better than this.
6. Almont Baking & Donut Co, Almont
Round out your adventure with a stop at Almont Baking & Donut Co., a lovely café that serves a variety of fantastic baked goods in addition to out-of-this-world donuts. This family-owned spot prides itself on offering a sense of community to all who stop by, which is only enhanced by its time-tested recipes, cozy vibe, and small-town appeal. Top it all off with a hot cup of coffee or a sweet roll before heading home for the evening.
Have you visited any of these unforgettable Michigan donut shops while satisfying your sweet tooth? Share your favorite locales and flavors with us by leaving a Facebook comment. Now, what are you waiting for? Round up the family, hop in the car, and get ready to indulge!
Note: Because this is intended to be a day trip, we can’t include donut shops from every region of the state. If there’s a particular shop that you’d like to see featured in a future article, fill out our official nomination form! Maybe we'll have to take on a Michigan donut trail road trip encore!
Next, want to keep the fun times rolling but aren't sure where to go? This epic Michigan road trip is perfect for when you can't decide what part of the Mitten State you want to visit.
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