8 Great Road Trips to Take in Michigan
Michigan's natural beauty, delightful little towns, and fascinating cultural heritage lure travelers with the promise of spectacular road trips. The state offers picturesque shores along the Great Lakes and miles of breathtaking beaches to national parks. Between the exquisite coastline of Lake Michigan and the vibrant autumn foliage in the northern regions, each journey reveals something unique about Michigan's rich history.
Michigan offers a perfect mix of urban excitement and natural beauty. From the lively cities to the peaceful countryside, the state has plenty to explore. Hike the rugged trails to waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula, or relax by the crystal-clear lakes and sandy shores of the Lower Peninsula. Here are eight road trips to help you discover Michigan’s best spots.
Grand Rapids To Silver Lake
This 1 hour 15 minute journey takes you from inland Michigan to the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. It passes through some notable small towns with unique attractions. After 37 miles of driving, stop in the delightful village of Muskegon to explore naval heritage at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum. This since-defunct World War II sub exhibits numerous artifacts about the conflict while paying homage to the men and women in uniform. While refueling in Whitehall, enjoy a hearty brunch at Gary's Restaurant, known for their pancakes and cinnamon rolls.
The journey proceeds through the charming town of Shelby, located in Oceana County. Here, you can take a breather and enjoy the easygoing atmosphere before heading to Silver Lake State Park. This stunning park offers acres of towering sand dunes and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Grand Rapids To St. Joseph
If you are frustrated by the bustle in Grand Rapids, this brief road trip to the waterfront village of St. Joseph is the perfect escape. It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the adventure kicks off in the quaint Dutch village of Holland. Stop to sample unique local heritage at the Holland Museum by browsing a collection of historic Dutch art, 20th-century paintings, and hundreds of cultural artifacts before amazing at the colorful tulips and rustic windmill at the Veldheer Tulip Gardens.
Further along in Saugatuck, discover a bubbly arts community by watching a play or film at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, then sit for a chicken sandwich or shrimp taco at Wicks Park Bar & Grille. As you approach your destination, take one last detour in South Haven for a glimpse of fascinating nautical history at the Michigan Maritime Museum. Besides examining rare artifacts and relics, you can hop aboard a 19th-century replica ship to know how it felt to sail on the legendary Friends Good Will.
Grand Rapids To Battle Creek
One hour is all you need for this easygoing drive through the heart of Michigan, offering a chance to traverse several small-town gems. At the 16-mile mark of the journey, take a break to check out the town of Wayland. Wayland is recognized for its charming downtown, featuring historic buildings, murals, local eateries, and a vibrant atmosphere. You can also reconnect with nature at Gun Lake Park. This 4-acre oasis boasts a sandy, 450-foot beach and shaded picnic areas to enjoy soothing water views.
Visit Gull Meadow Farms in Richland to unwind with fun farm activities, including weaving through a 5-acre corn labyrinth and petting farm animals. Finally, you can wrap up your expedition by delving into rare history by exploring the Historic Adventist Village in Battle Creek. This recreated 19th-century village shares fond memories from the Victorian Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Grand Rapids To Petoskey
Tourists with time to burn will appreciate the almost 3-hour drive to Petoskey as one of the best road trips to take in Michigan. Numerous attractions dot the route, including Newaygo State Park. Perched on 20-foot embankments above Hardy Dam Pond along the Muskegon River, the park offers a serene escape. There are forested campsites, an 18-hole disc golf course, and a boat ramp. The park also borders the Manistee National Forest, providing access to hiking trails, hunting grounds, and more.
The drive also passes the shores of 2,500-acre Lake Mitchell, inviting kayaking excursions on the calm lake waters. Remember to take in the engineering marvel of SkyBridge Michigan in Boyne Falls. Ride a cable car to its 118-foot-high pedestrian bridge for an adrenaline-inducing aerial walk and sweeping Boyne Valley views.
Detroit To Benton Harbor
Aerial view of Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
While many Michigan road trips boast shoreline views, this lovely trip goes against the grain. Cutting through the middle of the Great Lakes State as it moves from the bustling Detroit downtown to the laidback village of Benton Harbor. This 2-hour 45-minute journey features exciting detours like the vibrant college town of Ann Arbor, home to the heavenly oasis of Matthaei Botanical Gardens. This 300-acre garden has up to 3 miles of short trails cutting through a display of bonsai gardens, perennials, medicinal plants, and herbs. Proceed to Battle Creek and visit the Underground Railroad Sculpture for a photo opportunity next to the 28-foot-long and 14-foot-high monument.
Consider spending a few minutes in Kalamazoo at the Kalamazoo Valley Museum. Its interactive mix of exhibits delivers a unique perspective of science, history, technology, and other life aspects that connect human beings. Make your final break in Paw Paw to enjoy tasty wines from Warner Vineyards.
Detroit To Bay City
Lasting just under two hours, this fun drive allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of Motor City. Stop off in the notable small town of Rochester Hills. Here, you can shop for all your trip supplies at the Village of Rochester Hills—a large outdoor lifestyle shopping center. Frankenmuth is another must-see destination along the route. It is steeped in German heritage that is well preserved at the Frankenmuth Historical Museum. Besides sorting through a gallery of artifacts and art at the restored 1905 hotel, remember to sample delicious traditional cuisine at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant featuring sauerbraten, schnitzels, and potato cheese puffs.
As the trip draws closer to the end, take a detour in the lively river village of Saginaw. Snap some photos of the architectural alluring French Renaissance Revival-style Castle Museum of Saginaw County History. Also, take a little time to interact with lovely wildlife species, including penguins and kangaroos, at the Saginaw Children's Zoo.
Detroit To Milford
Scenic park in Farmington Hills in early autumn time.
Those with limited time for a day trip can opt for this 45-minute drive to discover some dynamic, small communities outside Detroit. Starting in downtown Detroit, drive about 8 miles to the artsy borough of Highland Park. Attend a fascinating cultural lesson at venues like 333 Midland, a beautiful art center with free admission. This restored factory plant showcases assorted art forms, from sculptures to paintings, by budding and established regional artists.
Follow this up with complete outdoor immersion along the wooded hiking trails through Carpenter Lake Nature Preserve. The 42 acres feature a mix of forests, meadows, and wetlands overlooking the still waters of Carpenter Lake. In Farmington Hills, visit the Zekelman Holocaust Center, the state's largest Holocaust museum, and explore over 700 visual, audio, and written testimonies from victims, survivors, and liberators. Finally, complete the trip at the Milford Historical Society to uncover dynamic heritage about the townspeople.
Lansing To Muskegon
Michigan's state capital can wear down any traveler not used to its fast-paced life, so a trip to Muskegon enables you to relax on the shores of Lake Michigan. This 1 hour 35 minute escapade will take you past Portland, where you can stock up for the road ahead with burgers and sandwiches at Olivera's Restaurant. As you pass through Grand Rapids, use the opportunity to sample its top tourist experiences, such as exploring presidential heritage at the Gerald R. Ford Museum. Inside the rustic building, a vast collection of artifacts, photos, memorabilia, and archives puts the life and times of President Ford in perspective.
Later, enjoy a pint at Ye Old Tavern in Fruitport before winding down the journey at Pere Marquette Park. This sandy enclave on the shores of Lake Michigan has a 2.5-mile beach, picturesque piers, and spectacular lighthouses. It's the perfect place to see an amazing sunset over the water's horizon.
Final Thought
Michigan's sprawling landscapes and vibrant communities make it a prime destination for unforgettable adventures. There is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to enjoy. These road trips in Michigan provide a glimpse into the unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delectable local cuisine that every journey brings to the table. Whether you're seeking a leisurely escape or an adventurous exploration, Michigan's diverse attractions cater to all travelers, inviting you to hit the road and discover the wonders that await.
