Michigan, which means “giant lake,” affords over 3,200 miles of shoreline and breathtaking wilderness. Discover this scenic Midwest state with its inland waterways, towering dunes, historical forests, and huge lakes. Listed here are a few of my favourite spots I’d like to share…
1. Holland State Park Seashore
Positioned close to the town of Holland, this protected Holland State Park spans round 140 acres and is crammed with pristine pure magnificence together with broad lakes, lush forested areas, beautiful dunes and a historic lighthouse.
Though its its the lengthy broad, family-friendly sandy Holland State Park Seashore which is my favourite half. Positioned on the shore of Lake Michigan, it’s a stunning spot with calm waters and implausible alternatives for swimming, boating, tenting, picnicking, taking part in volleyball or simply merely stress-free.
When right here, I extremely suggest photographing the long-lasting and really putting Huge Pink Lighthouse, renting a kayak, jet-ski or paddleboard and exploring the waters, climbing the sand dunes after which watching a chic sundown!
My favourite highlights…
Visiting close by Holland whereas staying which is a metropolis with an enchanting Dutch heritage I beloved the the distinctive windmills and the gorgeous gardens crammed with tulips!
Tenting in a single day on the Seashore Campground which had beautiful views of the lake.
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2. Mackinac Island and Arch Rock
This car-free resort island situated in Lake Huron covers greater than 4 sq. miles between Michigan’s Higher and Decrease peninsulas.
It has an fascinating previous with a assorted historical past that dates again 1000’s of years however right this moment it’s a well-liked vacationer resort coated with thick forests, fascinating limestone formations, sandy seashores and nineteenth century historic structure and picturesque harbors full with gently bobbing boats.
Don’t miss the fascinating Fort Mackinac, the charming and historic Grand Resort which is residence to the world’s longest porch (and unimaginable coastal views) and exploring the superb climbing trails.
One of many trails, the Arch Rock Path lead me to my favourite pure sight on the island, Arch Rock. The pure limestone arch that reaches 146 ft above the bottom and for my part it’s an absolute should see on the island and really photogenic!
My favourite highlights…
Seeing fudge being made then sampling the unimaginable fudge within the outlets situated on the island. I extremely suggest the scrumptious Maple Syrup fudge at Murdick’s Fudge Store.
Renting a motorcycle at Ryba’s Bicycle Rental for simply $9 a hour after which exploring the scenic looped bike path which took me spherical the entire island seeing beautiful lake and limestone rock views alongside the best way!
Eating on tasty gluten-free tacos on the cute Seabiscuit Cafe.
3. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park
Positioned in Grand Rapids, I really like visiting this tranquil spot because it’s an exquisite and really nicely saved family-friendly public backyard with fascinating instructional programmes and unimaginable artwork within the type of trendy sculptures by famend artists (together with Henry Moore and August Rodin) which mix seamlessly into the panorama!
Masking 158 acres, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park incorporates a zen-like Japanese backyard full with an ornate teahouse, nature trails, shade gardens, a youngsters’s backyard, a 15,000-square-foot tropical conservatory, heirloom orchards and a farm backyard (which grows greens and herbs), in addition to the various assortment modern sculptures and a calendar of cultural occasions.
My private highlights…
Seeing native musicians play on the Ayers Basement Methods Tuesday Night Music Membership which is a held on a big stage within the grounds through the summer time months.
Photographing my favourite sculpture “The American Horse” which is a big 24-foot-tall bronze horse by acclaimed artist Nina Akamu.
4. Mount Bohemia
Mount Bohemia is a wild and rugged spot which through the winter affords some distinctive and difficult snowboarding for extra skilled skiers and snowboarders – with severe backcountry terrain, two chairlifts and rustic lodging.
Positioned within the Keweenaw Peninsula, within the Higher Peninsula it’s a shocking magnificence spot in each summer time and winter however in winter the out of doors adventurists descend eager to deal with the deeply coated and ungroomed runs and really steep slopes.
Through the winter months its a scenic paradise and is definitely one of many snowiest spots within the Midwest. I additionally love visiting through the summer time and exploring the scenic climbing trails, going kayaking and swimming within the close by calm waters of Lac La Belle Lake after which staying in a single day in a cute a yurt!
My favorite highlights…
Enjoyable within the Scandinavian-style out of doors sauna which is situated right here!
Going zipling on the Mount Bohemia Zip Line Tour the place I noticed unimaginable birds-eye-views of Lac La Belle Lake in addition to the thick forests.
5. Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore
Positioned on the shore of Lake Michigan within the state’s Higher peninsula, this can be a beautiful protected gem within the type of an unimaginable lakeshore that runs for 42 miles and covers greater than 73,000 acres.
A haven for each nature lovers and out of doors adventurists, the uncrowded space is crammed with colourful sandstone cliffs, enormous sand dunes, shallow caves, rock arches, sandy seashores, forests, fairly waterfalls and even an Instagram-worthy lighthouse, Au Sable Gentle Station.
In addition to being extremely scenic I really like that it has a great deal of actions on supply too together with glorious climbing trails (which you’ll be able to see the waterfalls on a lot of them), kayaking, boating, paddleboarding and tenting.
Through the winter it affords cross-country snowboarding, snowmobiling, and even mountaineering!
My private highlights…
Going scuba diving within the clear waters of Lake Superior and seeing the wreck of the The Smith Moore an outdated steamer which sank in 1889 – which was a unprecedented sight!
Seeing the beautiful 60-foot Chapel Falls which I discovered on the finish of the scenic Chapel Loop Path.
Going for a picnic and a swim on the sandy Sand Level Seashore whereas gazing on the beautiful views of Lake Superior.
6. Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is likely one of the 5 Nice Lakes within the nation and types the whole western boundary of the Decrease Peninsula of Michigan and is bordered by a few different states, together with Wisconsin, and Indiana.
In addition to being enormous (its 22,400 sq. miles and 923 ft deep), it’s additionally a shocking place with areas of outstanding magnificence and loads of leisure actions which attracts households, nature lovers and out of doors adventurists. There’s heaps to do right here together with crusing, climbing, kayaking, paddleboarding, tenting and even scuba diving taking a look at ship wrecks.
Stunning sandy seashores adorn its shoreline good for stress-free, swimming and boating and its residence to round twenty small islands and nationwide and state parks which encompass the lake. There’s additionally at least 102 lighthouses!
My favourite highlights…
Mountaineering and tenting in a single day on the rugged South Manitou Island, I additionally beloved the scenic lighthouse it has right here.
Exploring the towering sand dune at Sleeping Bear Dunes Nationwide Lakeshore.
Discovering a few of the lake’s greatest spots when staying in Chicago which is situated on the shores I beloved Navy Pier the bustling, iconic, and scenic spot; Oak Avenue Seashore which affords a serene, upscale city oasis and the full of life North Avenue Seashore.
7. Yankee Springs State Park
This under-the-radar magnificence spot is sprawling 5,200-acre park is in a protected state-managed space in Yankee Springs Township in Barry County close to the small cities of Middleville and Hastings.
It’s crammed with pristine, unspoilt surroundings coated in lakes, forests, and distinctive geological options like Satan’s Soupbowl, a characteristic fashioned by glacial exercise 1000’s of years in the past.
I really like the country and the way uncrowded it feels and for my part, it’s the proper vacation spot for nature lovers in search of someplace slightly extra off-the-beaten monitor.
In addition to miles of scenic climbing and mountain biking trails ready to be explored there are nice alternatives for swimming within the lakes, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, hen and wildlife recognizing and there are over 220 campsites to select from in addition to two cabins.
My highlights…
Going boating on the scenic Gun Lake (there are leases obtainable right here).
Staying in a single day on the Deep Lake Rustic Cabins, though the facilities have been very fundamental it got here with unimaginable lake views and made an incredible different to tent tenting.
8. Pere Marquette Park
That is one other beautiful and comparatively uncrowded hidden gem. Pere Marquette Park is situated on the northernmost finish of Lake Michigan, which covers a 2.5-mile space owned by the town.
It’s a protected seaside park spanning over 27 acres residence to a protracted sandy seaside, volleyball courts, picnic areas, eating places, playgrounds, a chosen swimming space with lifeguards (in season), and a picturesque lighthouse.
The seaside is surf-raked each day through the summer time season and there’s beautiful sunsets to be seen within the night.
Interesting to households and couple’s in search of a novel date spot, in addition to extra energetic varieties who love watersports as there’s masses on supply right here. You possibly can go kiteboarding, paddle-boarding, crusing, jet-skiing and windsurfing.
My favourite highlights…
Having a picnic by the South Pier which was a peaceable and scenic spot.
Photographing the historic Muskegon South Pierhead Gentle.
9. The Crisp Level Lighthouse
This historic gem is situated on the distant shores of Lake Superior and for my part it’s remoted scenic location actually provides to its magnificence. Its my favourite lighthouse within the state and I believe its significantly photogenic!
Positioned within the state’s Higher Peninsula, it stands at 58 ft excessive and was first lit up in 1904. It’s superbly preserved and I extremely suggest happening a guided tour right here the place you possibly can see beautiful lake views from very excessive up!
My favourite highlights…
Taking pictures of the putting lighthouse for my Instagram gallery.
Having a picnic at a desk close to the lighthouse so we might simply sit, eat and stare upon it!
10. Historic Gaslight District, Petoskey
Petoskey is a captivating and picturesque metropolis situated on the shores of Little Traverse Bay in Lake Michigan within the northern a part of the state crammed with historic structure and fascinating cultural scene. It additionally makes an incredible base for exploring the lake and all it has to supply.
My favourite a part of the laid again city is the Petoskey Gaslight District which has the status of being probably the greatest locations to buy within the state. It’s crammed with fascinating impartial shops, upscale boutiques, distinctive items, artwork galleries, charming eateries and cafes and superb eating places.
I completely love the pure fuel lighting which strains the road similar to it did way back, including to the district’s appeal and likewise the views of Little Traverse Bay too.
My private highlights…
Looking for quirky kitchenware within the Zany Kitchen store and distinctive souvenirs in Grandpa Shorter’s Presents. I particularly beloved the domestically made items they’d.
Eating at Chandler’s – A restaurant which had upscale American delicacies made with domestically sourced components. Their California Rolls have been divine!
11. Silver Seashore County Park
Like different sorts of parks, Silver Seashore affords one thing for everybody. This contains swimming in the summertime and cross-country snowboarding within the winter, in addition to picnic alternatives, sunbathe, kayak, paddleboard, play volleyball, and stroll by means of one in all a number of walkways.
There are grills for individuals who want to barbecue, and each ingesting fountains and concession stands are for many who want a snack or one thing cool to drink.
There’s additionally an on-site pavilion you possibly can lease for weddings, retirement events, birthday events, and quite a few different particular occasions.
12. Presque Isle Park
Consisting of greater than 300 acres, this park is situated in Marquette and affords lovely scenic drives, untouched forests, sandstone cliffs, rocky outcrops, and some secluded coves and pebble seashores.
If you happen to love nature, that is the place for you as a result of you possibly can get pleasure from crops and animals that embrace greater than 100 species of native crops, raccoons, Canada geese, and white-tailed deer.
You even have entry to quite a few foot trails when you’d prefer to be out within the open to benefit from the surroundings, making this a flexible park.
13. Minimize River Bridge State Roadside Park
Positioned alongside Freeway 2 in Mackinac County, this park is discovered close to the Minimize River. It has an imposing bridge is 641 ft lengthy and was made out of 888 quick tons of structural metal. The bridge is certainly a surprise, however a close-by set of picket stairs was constructed after the bridge was constructed.
Whereas individuals don’t often use the staircase, it’s nonetheless fascinating due to its age and structure. This can be a good spot to cease and go to whereas on the highway and a fair higher location when you want a spot to calm down for some time.
14. The College of Michigan
Based in 1817, the College of Michigan is situated in Ann Arbor and now covers roughly 780 acres. It has almost 600 vital buildings, greater than 45,000 college students, and virtually 7,000 tutorial personnel.
Many well-known individuals, together with former U.S. President Gerald Ford and 26 dwelling billionaires, attended the college.
The soccer staff is called the Wolverines and is a member of the Huge 10 Convention. This can be a lovely college, and its buildings embrace many traditionally and architecturally distinctive amenities.
15. Ludington State Park
Positioned on 5,300 acres of land, this park is crossed by a stretch of the Huge Sable River and is residence to the Huge Sable Level Lighthouse, which is 112 ft excessive and dates again to the 1870s.
You possibly can swim on Lake Michigan or Hamlin Lake, go tubing on Huge Sable River, and luxuriate in their climbing trails, cross-country snowboarding, biking, and even canoeing.
There are lighthouse excursions and eateries to get pleasure from, so it’s straightforward to see why so many individuals spend the day on the park each time they should escape all of it.
16. Porcupine Mountains State Park
Established in 1944, this park supplies campgrounds, locations to swim and go boating, climbing and backpacking trails, and even rustic cabins for in a single day stays.
One of many park’s most important areas is the Lake of the Clouds Overlook, which has a few of the most beautiful surroundings you’ve ever seen.
Within the nineteenth century, the world was well-known for mining copper, and the whole park now covers greater than 59,000 acres. It’s situated in Ontonagon and Gogebic counties and has an elevation of almost 1,500 ft.
17. Copper Harbor Trails
If you happen to love mountain biking, that is the place you need to be. It’s additionally one of many few 5-star trails within the Midwest, and everybody who has ridden the paths has testified that they deserve each star. Sure, they’re a bit rugged, however they aren’t only for extra skilled riders.
Anybody can benefit from the Copper Harbor Trails, primarily as a result of they’re distant, out-of-the-way, scenic, and enjoyable. Excellent for out of doors fans and everybody else as nicely!
18. Tahquamenon Falls
Not all lovely waterfalls might be discovered with an Web search, and the Yellow Canine River Falls is an ideal instance. To get there, take County Street 510 West from Huge Bay in Marquette County, then park by the small bridge you see.
Subsequent, hike a few half-mile to see these beautiful falls.
Not too removed from the Yellow Canine River Falls are the Huge Pup Creek Falls, which yow will discover just by going slightly farther on CR 510. Each waterfalls are nothing wanting wonderful.
19. Isle Royale Nationwide Park
Isle Royale was as soon as voted the least-visited nationwide park, however that’s a disgrace as a result of it has a lot to supply.
Though it’s distant and virtually inaccessible through the winter, the park affords cottages to lease to go boating and, better of all, numerous animals to see, together with wolves and moose.
You possibly can go tenting there, hike or backpack by means of one in all their many trails, and even go to just a few lighthouses. The park is astounding as a result of its waters are good for all actions, and the shoreline and forests aren’t any much less extraordinary.
20. Log Slide Overlook at Pictured Rocks Nationwide Lakeshore
This overlook is seven miles west of Grand Marais and has a 300-foot-high dune. Its beautiful views embrace Lake Superior and the Grand Sable Banks and Dunes.
A path extends west from the overlook to the Au Sable Gentle Station, and when you comply with that path alongside Lake Superior, it turns into virtually degree with the water.
When you see the water, you will get off the path and luxuriate in swimming or working in your tan on the seaside space!