Michigan is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes in every direction. Its stunning coastline is dotted with white sand beaches, massive dunes, and vibrant sandstone cliffs, where historic lighthouses still remain after decades.
During the summer, you can travel from Detroit to South Haven, learning about the intriguing history along the way. There are many cultural and historical places in Michigan, from Henry Ford to Motown. As the weather cools, enjoy the gorgeous fall foliage and snowy scenery as Michigan’s little villages become increasingly lovely.
1: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
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Aside from Alaska, Michigan holds the distinction of having the longest shoreline of any state in the United States. This National Lakeshore is an important component of this vast coastline. The lakeshore, which spans 35 miles and contains 450-foot bluffs, was established in 1970 to protect the magnificent but vulnerable shoreline.
Sleeping Bear Dunes, formerly voted the most beautiful site in the United States, can be explored in a variety of ways. Hiking pathways such as the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, which weaves through the deep forest on its way to breathtaking vistas, are hidden behind the dunes and high bluffs.
2: Mackinac Island
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The sound of horseshoes clip-clopping on Mackinac Island’s ancient pavement has a unique quality. Mackinac Island, once the home of the Odawa people and subsequently a fur trade center and a colonial military base, has evolved into a must-see attraction while staying car-free.
On the lovely Lake Huron, you’ll have the chance to ride in a horse-drawn carriage around the Midwest’s Cape Cod. Travel through the Old Town to find streets lined with Victorian-era architecture, which are now home to charming cafes and romantic restaurants. Also read Best Things to Do in Curacao.
3: Detroit RiverFront
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Making your way to the Detroit RiverFront is a terrific way to get your steps in while seeing Detroit. Stroll along the Detroit River while taking in breathtaking views of the city skyline on the 3.5-mile RiverWalk.
The asphalt walkway is gentle on the legs and ideal for cyclists. The western terminus of the trail begins at the Renaissance Center on the RiverFront, which houses GM’s headquarters. Along with the Cullen Family Carousel, you’ll have access to shopping, entertainment, and dining.
4: Isle Royale National Park
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Isle Royale National Park is a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve and a remote and car-free natural world. The park has several islands that are all clustered around the center Isle Royale. The only way to begin your experiences here is to arrive by boat or seaplane.
You may explore the Isle Royale National Park along many pathways once your feet are back on solid land. Each depicts a world sculpted by the Ice Age, complete with abundant lakes, rivers, and deep forests teeming with life. Otters, moose, and wolves, as well as a variety of predatory birds, are frequently seen.
5: Saugatuck Dunes State Park
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Saugatuck Dunes State Park features a magnificent coastline, massive dunes, and lush woodlands along an isolated portion of Lake Michigan. While it’s typical for guests to relax on the white sands of the beach in the warm summer sun, there’s much to see and do.
Dunes that have grown to reach over 200 feet tall can be found along the park’s 2.5-mile shoreline. This has 13 miles of hiking trails that exhibit the lush forests where birds flock during the summer months. Also read Best Things to Do in Las Vegas.
6: South Haven Lighthouse
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The South Haven Lighthouse, which was built around the turn of the twentieth century, has long possessed a magical aura that has enchanted visitors. The crimson lighthouse sparkles under its beacon at the end of an elevated catwalk packed with lamp posts at night. It promises to be an awe-inspiring spectacle, whether the stars shine brightly above or the sky is dark.
The lighthouse is composed of cast iron, which has been shown to be durable enough to withstand the swells of Lake Michigan for over a century. The raised walkway was built primarily so that the lighthouse keeper could still go to the lighthouse in the event of a storm.
7: Motown Museum
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The Motown Museum, located in downtown Detroit, was founded in 1985 to honor the city where the genre was formed. The museum, housed in a historic studio, tells the story of Motown from its humble origins to its most famous songs.
Explore a range of exhibits that feature historic antiques, apparel, and memorabilia from some of Motown’s most famous figures. Motown has recently expanded to ensure that it can not only maintain but also promote the past and future. Through training and its many live events, the museum is currently assisting in the development of musical opportunities.
8: Kal Haven Trail
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The Kalhaven Trail connects South Haven and Kalamazoo for more than 30 miles along an old railroad bed. The Pure Michigan Trail allows you to walk (or ride) through some of Michigan’s most lovely little communities while learning about the state’s history.
You’ll pass through gorgeous meadows and wide farmlands on your way to Lake Michigan before entering through the forest. Although there are some accessible sections, the trail is hard-packed and not paved. When you have heavy snow, you can complete the trail on cross-country skis or a snowmobile in the winter. Also. read Best Things to do in Anchorage.
9: Holland State Park Beach
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The Holland State Park Beach, which overlooks the beautiful Lake Michigan, is the place to go in the summer. Enjoy a seemingly endless lakefront just outside of Holland, where you’ll have plenty of space to relax in the sun.
Throw the football around and play corn hole in the sand, or go out on the lake using the boat ramp. Within the state park, fishing is also permitted. Many trails that skirt on the lake’s edge if you’re looking for more dry land adventures.
10: Michigan State Capitol
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The beautiful Michigan State Capitol, designed by Elijah Myers and built-in 1879, is still a site of governance and well worth a visit.
The Michigan State Capitol was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1992, following extensive renovations. The structure has one distinguishing element that sets it apart from the majority of previous capital structures. That being its magnificent cast-iron dome, which is best appreciated from the expansive grounds. Today, you can either explore the iconic structure on your own or join up for a fascinating guided tour that takes you behind the scenes of one of the state’s most important structures.