It’s no secret that Michigan holds many highlights in regard to the beauty of the Midwest. These highlights can also make for the perfect road-trip vacation. Based on my many experiences around the state, I’ve put together a comprehensive ranking of the top 5 road trip destinations in Michigan!
5. Boyne Mt. Sky Bridge
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Boyne City, MI
While typically known for its skiing in the winter, Boyne Mountain has proved itself worthy of your summer must-see list as well. The 1,200 foot long, 118-foot high bridge offers a panoramic view of Boyne Valley, guaranteeing beautiful imagery all year round.
When your visit to the SkyBridge is over, the trip doesn’t need to end with it! Boyne City’s cozy and welcoming downtown area has lots to offer as well, with restaurants such as the Boyne River Inn, Lake Street Pub, and Cafe Sante. All this in addition to the bordering Lake Charlevoix and nearby Walloon Lake, Boyne City is perfect for anybody looking to have a peaceful getaway in northern Michigan.
One of my personal favorite Michigan memories was going to dinner on Lake Charlevoix after spending the day hiking around Boyne Mountain, and I couldn’t recommend it more to anybody looking for an ideal road trip spot!
4. Grand Haven State Park
Grand Haven, MI
Surrounded by a beautiful city filled with local shops and restaurants, Grand Haven State Park truly has something for everyone. From the relaxing warm summer days to the incredible sunsets on Lake Michigan’s horizon, the beaches of Grand Haven are no joke. With a lively atmosphere in the summer with townsfolk and beachgoers, it is without a doubt that Grand Haven is a must-see family road trip destination.
I visited last summer with my family, and after enjoying the soft-sand beaches, the quaintness of the town and buildings, and the delicious locally owned restaurants, I have nothing but positive words for this beautiful eastern-Michigan getaway!
3. Sleeping Bear Dunes
Leelanau & Benzie County, MI
Nearby to areas for camping or cabins for renting, the counties of Leelanau and Benzie harbor some of the most unbelievable Aeolian landforms in the United States. Reaching up to 460 feet above Lake Michigan’s waterline, the dunes harbor an unmatched view of the great lake, and the space is perfect for picnics, climbing, kids playing, and peaceful relaxation over the water. While pictures do some to capture its breathtaking size and formation, there’s no way to truly experience this absolute wonder other than to see it with the naked eye.
The dunes have been a consistent vacation destination with my family for years now, and yet every time we get to the crest of these powdery marvels of nature, a daze of amazement seems to wash over everybody there, and we waste no time in getting to the water!
2. Pictured Rocks
Alger County, MI
Lake Superior holds some of the clearest and freshest water in the Great Lakes, not to mention its beautiful scenery and fantastic swimming. The more daring types could even venture to go cliff diving into the deep pools that surround these incredible structures, while others could simply observe their astounding beauty. If you’re looking for a fantastic boating location, Pictured Rocks is perfect for you, and if you’ve yet to experience the beauty of the Upper Peninsula, there is no better time than the summer.
The whole area is a wondrous escape to the rustic wonders that lie north of the mitten, and Pictured Rocks is the perfect cherry on top. Alger County has been a consistent destination for my family for several years in past summers. As someone who loves the lake and nature as much as any Michigander, I can only tell you that this area is a must see.
The refreshing, strikingly clear water, the lush greenery, and the incredible sight of these rocks always immerses me and my family in the true Michigan experience. With this, it’s sure that you haven’t seen Michigan in all its glory until you’ve made it to Pictured Rocks!
1. Mackinac Island
Mackinac County, MI
If you spend as many as just a few days in Michigan, you’ll have heard of Mackinac Island. This is why it was essential that it was included on this list! The island is a haven for bikes, scenery, horses, restaurants, and absolutely ZERO cars. Mackinac Island welcomes and encourages activity, as the island is large enough to harbor picture-perfect beach locations, but small enough to bike entirely around in approximately one hour.
One would also be remiss to not mention the famous Mackinac Island fudge, each type packing a unique rich flavor that never fails to keep visitors coming back! In my past visits to Mackinac, I have always found an abundance of appreciation for the pure uniqueness of the whole place, and just hopping off the ferry will provide you with an almost otherworldly experience that truly feels as though you’re brought back to the past. You can stay a day or you can stay a weekend, but whatever you decide, it’s sure to be a time to remember!
We want to hear your opinion. Do you agree with the list and its rankings? Are there any we missed? Let us know in the conversation below!