When I first planned my trip to Michigan, I honestly didn’t know what to expect. But from the moment I arrived, I was amazed by how much this state has to offer. Whether you’re into city adventures, small-town charm, peaceful lakes, or outdoor fun, Michigan has something for everyone.
I spent time exploring vibrant cities like Detroit, relaxing by the shores of the Great Lakes, hiking through the forests of the Upper Peninsula, and even riding in a horse-drawn carriage on Mackinac Island. Every place had its own vibe, and each stop gave me a new reason to love this state.
In this guide, I’ll share my favorite things to do in Michigan — all based on my own experience. If you’re planning a trip, or just curious about what this beautiful state is like, I hope this helps you enjoy it as much as I did.
Explore Detroit – Music, Art, and Comeback Energy
Detroit surprised me in the best way. I had heard about its tough past, but being there, I could feel the energy of a city that’s rebuilding itself with pride. If you visit Michigan, Detroit should definitely be on your list.
One of my favorite stops was the Motown Museum, where I got to stand in the very studio where legends like Stevie Wonder and The Supremes recorded their music. It gave me chills! If you love music, this place is a must-see.
I also spent time at the Detroit Institute of Arts, which has an incredible collection of paintings and sculptures. Even if you’re not a big art fan, it’s hard not to be impressed by the giant mural by Diego Rivera that covers an entire room.
Downtown Detroit is full of cool places to walk around. I visited Eastern Market, a huge open-air market with fresh food, local art, and live music. It was a fun place to explore, grab a bite, and feel the local vibe.
Detroit is a city full of stories, and during my trip, I could tell it’s writing a new one — one of creativity, hard work, and heart. It’s not just a place to visit, it’s a place to experience.
Relax by the Great Lakes
One of the best parts of my trip to Michigan was spending time by the Great Lakes. I had no idea how huge and beautiful they were until I saw them in person. Honestly, it felt like being by the ocean — only with fresh water and fewer crowds.
I spent a few peaceful days along Lake Michigan, especially near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The beaches were soft, the views were stunning, and the sunsets were some of the prettiest I’ve ever seen. I even climbed one of the tall dunes — it was a workout, but totally worth it for the view at the top.
There were also plenty of fun things to do by the lake. I tried kayaking for the first time, and it was both relaxing and exciting. On another day, I just laid back on the beach with an ice cream cone and enjoyed the breeze.
Places like Traverse City, Holland, and Grand Haven have beautiful lakefronts with boardwalks, lighthouses, and little shops to explore. Each town had its own charm, and I loved hopping from one to the next during my road trip.
Take a Trip to Mackinac Island
Visiting Mackinac Island was like stepping back in time. The moment I got off the ferry, I noticed there were no cars anywhere — just bikes, horses, and carriages. It made everything feel peaceful and charming, like a real-life postcard.
One of my favorite things to do on the island was just riding a bike around the edge of it. There’s a scenic 8-mile trail along the shore, and it gave me amazing views of Lake Huron and the famous Mackinac Bridge in the distance.
I also explored Fort Mackinac, a historic military fort with beautiful views and interesting stories from the past. If you like history, it’s a great spot to visit.
And of course, I couldn’t leave without trying the famous Mackinac Island fudge. Every shop smelled like chocolate and sugar, and I may have bought more than I needed — but no regrets!
The whole island had a relaxing, old-fashioned feel. Whether I was walking through the cute downtown shops or just sitting on a porch with a lake view, I felt completely at ease. If you want a quiet, scenic getaway in Michigan, Mackinac Island is the perfect place.
Discover the Upper Peninsula (U.P.)
If you love nature, peace, and wide-open spaces, you’ll fall in love with Michigan’s Upper Peninsula — just like I did. It’s a part of the state that feels wild, untouched, and full of adventure.
One of my favorite places in the U.P. was Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. I took a boat tour to see the colorful cliffs rising right out of Lake Superior, and the view was absolutely stunning. The water was so clear and bright blue — I had no idea Michigan could look like that.
I also visited Tahquamenon Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the Midwest. The sound of the rushing water and the quiet forest all around made it a perfect place to relax and take it all in.
Driving through the U.P. was an adventure on its own. The roads wind through dense forests, and I often saw deer and even a bald eagle. I stopped at a few roadside shops and cafes, where the people were friendly and the food was homemade and hearty.
If you enjoy hiking, camping, or just getting away from the crowds, the Upper Peninsula is a must-see. It felt like I had discovered one of Michigan’s best-kept secrets.
Experience Fall Colors and Scenic Drives
Michigan in the fall is something truly special. When I visited in October, the trees were bursting with bright reds, oranges, and yellows — it honestly looked like a painting.
One of the best parts of my trip was driving through the Tunnel of Trees along M-119, near Lake Michigan. The road is narrow and winding, with tall trees arching overhead, and the views are breathtaking. I stopped at small shops and overlooks along the way, and it was the perfect way to enjoy the season.
Another beautiful drive I took was through the Huron-Manistee National Forests. The peaceful roads and colorful forests made the whole experience feel calm and refreshing. I rolled down the windows, played some music, and just soaked it all in.
I also found that many towns in Michigan celebrate fall with festivals, pumpkin patches, and cider mills. I stopped at one near Grand Rapids where I got to drink fresh apple cider and eat warm donuts — it was a perfect fall day.
If you’re planning a trip in the autumn, Michigan is one of the best places to see fall colors. Just bring a camera, because you’ll want to remember every minute of it.
Enjoy Winter Sports and Snowy Fun
I didn’t think I’d enjoy the cold, but winter in Michigan completely changed my mind. If you visit during the snowy months, you’ll find tons of fun things to do — especially if you like outdoor adventures.
I tried skiing for the first time at Boyne Mountain, and even though I fell a few times, it was a blast. There are ski resorts all across northern Michigan, and many of them offer snowboarding, tubing, and lessons for beginners like me.
One of the coolest things I did was snowshoeing through a quiet forest in the Upper Peninsula. The snow-covered trees, the fresh air, and the total silence made it feel magical. I also saw people ice fishing and riding snowmobiles — winter here is definitely active and exciting.
If you’re more into cozy experiences, Michigan has that too. I stayed at a cabin near Traverse City, warmed up by the fire, and watched the snow fall outside. I even visited a winter festival where there was live music, hot drinks, and ice sculptures.
Michigan knows how to make the most of winter. Whether you want to be out on the slopes or inside with a cup of cocoa, you’ll find your kind of fun here.
Visit Small Towns and Local Festivals
Some of my favorite moments in Michigan didn’t happen in big cities — they happened in small towns where the pace was slower, the people were friendly, and everything felt more personal.
One town that really stood out to me was Frankenmuth, often called “Michigan’s Little Bavaria.” The streets were filled with cute buildings, cozy shops, and amazing food. I had the best chicken dinner at Zehnder’s, and I couldn’t leave without checking out Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland — the biggest Christmas store I’ve ever seen!
I also loved visiting Petoskey, a charming town along Lake Michigan. It’s known for its stone-covered beaches and historic downtown. I spent an afternoon walking through bookstores, sipping coffee, and just enjoying the laid-back vibe.
Michigan is also home to lots of local festivals throughout the year. I stumbled upon a cherry festival in Traverse City, where everything — from the pies to the sodas — was cherry-themed. There was music, crafts, and a great community feel.
Whether it’s a fall harvest festival, a summer art fair, or a winter celebration, Michigan knows how to throw a good party. If you time your visit right, you might just find yourself dancing to live music, tasting homemade treats, and making memories in a town you didn’t even know existed.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with family? Michigan has so many fun and easy things to do that kids and adults alike will enjoy. I took a trip with my family, and we found plenty of activities that kept everyone happy.
In Detroit, we visited the Detroit Zoo, where my kids loved seeing the animals and riding the carousel. It’s a great place to spend a day outdoors, especially if the weather is nice.
For a more hands-on experience, we stopped by the Michigan Science Center. It’s full of interactive exhibits that made learning fun for my kids — and honestly, I enjoyed it too!
If your family loves nature, places like Silver Lake Sand Dunes are perfect for all ages. We spent hours climbing dunes, splashing in the water, and even trying dune buggy rides, which was a hit with the older kids.
On Mackinac Island, biking around without any cars felt safe and exciting for the whole family. Plus, everyone enjoyed the fudge!
No matter what your kids are into, Michigan has family-friendly options that made our trip easy, fun, and full of memories.
Final Travel Tips
After spending time exploring Michigan, I picked up a few travel tips that really helped make my trip smoother and more enjoyable.
First, weather in Michigan can change quickly, so I always packed layers. Even in summer, it’s smart to bring a light jacket, especially near the lakes or in the Upper Peninsula.
If you plan to visit popular spots like Mackinac Island or Sleeping Bear Dunes, try to go during weekdays or early in the season to avoid crowds. Michigan is beautiful year-round, but some places get busy during summer and fall.
Renting a car is almost a must. Public transportation isn’t great outside big cities, and many of the best places — like small towns and nature spots — are easier to reach by car.
I also recommend trying local food everywhere you go. From fresh fish along the lakes to cherries in Traverse City, Michigan’s food scene added a delicious flavor to my trip.
Finally, don’t rush. Michigan has so much to offer that taking your time really helps you enjoy each place. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, history, or just relaxing by the water, there’s something here for you.
Conclusion
Visiting Michigan was an experience I’ll never forget. From the lively streets of Detroit to the peaceful shores of the Great Lakes, and from the charming small towns to the wild beauty of the Upper Peninsula, this state truly has it all.
I loved discovering new places, tasting local foods, and enjoying the changing seasons. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, Michigan offers something special for every traveler.
If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unique experiences, I highly recommend adding Michigan to your travel list. Trust me — once you visit, you’ll want to come back again and again.
