Michigan has something for everyone. There are fascinating cultural attractions within its vibrant cities and many outdoor adventures, such as snowboarding in the most beautiful parts of the state. These are some of the most outstanding places in Michigan.
6 Best Places to Visit in Michigan
1: Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is located in the northern part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and is centered around beautiful waterfalls. Beautiful forests and woodlands surround it, and it is just a short distance from Lake Superior’s sparkling waters.
The Tahquamenon River flows through the forest, passing between the tallest trees. It is home to the park’s most impressive sights, the Upper and Lower Falls. The former is over 60m wide and plunges 15m down a steep overhang. However, the second series of cascades are small and beautiful and swirl around an idyllic island.
The state park offers great opportunities for canoeing and fishing. In addition, many people camp overnight in the garden to enjoy the beautiful scenery and increase their chances of seeing the mosses, black bears, and bald eagles.
2: Holland
Holland, a small city on the Lower Peninsula near Grand Rapids, is situated on Lake Michigan’s scenic shores. Dutch Americans founded Tulip City, a popular tourist destination in Michigan. Its unique heritage and wealth of beautiful bulbs line its parks and windmill-dotted greens, making it a favorite spot to visit.
The Veldheer Tulip Gardens and Windmill Island Gardens offer beautiful flowerbeds to be enjoyed by visitors. However, the Holland Museum provides a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the Netherlands in America. The Dutch Village theme park features traditional buildings, a windmill, and a costume museum.
Holland’s best months to visit are May and December, when there is the wonderful Tulip Time Festival. The city has a charming downtown full of Victorian buildings and a beautiful waterfront. It also offers excellent beaches and watersports that visitors can enjoy.
The Veldheer Tulip Gardens and Windmill Island Gardens offer beautiful flowerbeds to be enjoyed by visitors. However, the Holland Museum provides a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the Netherlands in America. The Dutch Village theme park features traditional buildings, a windmill, and a clogs manufacturer.
Holland’s best months to visit are May and December, when there is the wonderful Tulip Time Festival. The city has a charming downtown full of Victorian buildings and a beautiful waterfront. It also offers excellent beaches and watersports that visitors can enjoy.
3: Saugatuck & Douglas
The twin towns of Saugatuck and Douglas are located just south of Holland. They can be found at the Kalamazoo River’s mouth, next to Lake Michigan. The two towns are almost one. They have a lively, laid back vibe and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
More than 12 art galleries are scattered around town, along with eclectic shops and waterfront restaurants. There are many cozy BnBs and stunning beaches like Oval Beach. Holland and Grand Rapids can be found close by if you’re looking for a more adventurous adventure.
The Midwest’s LGBT community loves the towns. They also draw boaters and families from Chicago and Detroit. Although they can be crowded on weekends and in the summer, Saugatuck & Douglas is well worth a visit.
4: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks, the first National Lakeshore in the United States, was established along the Upper Peninsula’s stunning Lake Superior shoreline. It is named after the spectacular rock formations, waterfalls, and caves that line its rugged coastline.
The craggy cliffs, which stretch over 20 km, tower impressively up to 60m, offering breathtaking views of the lake. Stunning waterfalls like Munising Falls or Sable Falls are hidden among the diverse landscapes. Hiking trails wind their way through the amazing nature.
Kayaking or boating on the lake is a great way to view the amazing sea caves, rock arches, and kaleidoscopic rocks up close. Popular activities include scuba diving. Under the waves, you will find mysterious shipwrecks. Many people visit the park in winter for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Grand Sable Dunes also has some incredible dunes that you can check out.
5: Isle Royale National Park
This national park, which includes not only Isle Royale but also hundreds of islets and the surrounding waters, lies northwest of Lake Superior, just on the border with Canada. It was established in 1940 and protected a lot of stunning scenery. Unfortunately, it is also home to many timber wolves and moose.
The park is secluded and receives very few visitors. This means that you will often have the thick forests, rugged hills, and picturesque shoreline to yourself. It’s a joy to camp in unspoiled, wild nature. Wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed.
Visitors can also enjoy hiking on the many trails and paths, canoeing, and fishing in the numerous streams and lakes. The Isle Royale archipelago, with its amazing fauna and flora, is a must-see for an unforgettable adventure.
6: Traverse City
Traverse city is located in the northern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. It can be found at the end of Grand Traverse Bay’s natural harbor. The beautiful bay is divided by the Old Mission Peninsula and boasts stunning landscapes, with Lake Michigan just a short distance away.
Although the city is subject to some urban sprawl, it’s still a pleasant place to visit. Visitors can explore the Leelanau Peninsula, home to the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. There are also many charming towns and wineries scattered around the peninsula and various outdoor activities.
Traverse City, known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” is home to several great breweries and historical sites. The Dennos Museum Centre has excellent exhibits about Inuit art.
The National Cherry Festival’s parades, contests, and displays are held in July. This is the best time to visit Dennos Museum Center.
