For those of us who live in the Great Lakes State, it can be easy to take the beauty of Michigan for granted. But out-of-state visitors might feel overwhelmed by the wide array of attractions to see throughout the region — after all, Michigan is overflowing with gorgeous natural and manmade spots! If it’s your first time here in the Great Lakes State, be sure to see these 12 amazing places.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes
Flickr/Rod You could spend hours staring out at stunning Lake Michigan views from the lookouts at Sleeping Bear Dunes, which offer a little something for everyone. Travel along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, journey down (and back up) the dunes themselves, or simply marvel at the beauty of Michigan’s natural splendor.
- Belle Isle
Flickr/Iván Chaar-López This Detroit gem has so much to offer. Whether you’re exploring the free Belle Isle Aquarium, checking out plant life within the Whitcomb Conservatory, or snapping photos of the Motor City skyline, you’ll find something to love during your journey to Belle Isle.
- Leelanau Peninsula
Flickr/Craig Piersma Wine lovers will be in heaven with a visit to Michigan’s gorgeous Leelanau Peninsula, which houses over 20 wineries and some of the most magical shoreline views imaginable. You might wonder if you’ve been swept away to the rolling landscapes of Tuscany as you make your way through the region.
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Flickr/Adventures On Wheels Venture to the Upper Peninsula for a boat tour of Pictured Rocks, which boasts vibrant turquoise waters and some of the most surreally beautiful views in the state. Whether you opt for a shipwreck tour, a hike along the shoreline, or a quiet night in Munising, there’s something in this area that you’ll simply adore.
- Mackinac Island
Flickr/Jasperdo This popular destination is one of Michigan’s most famous attractions, and it’s easy to understand why. Take a ferry to the island and rent a bike to get around — there are no cars on Mackinac! From historic forts to natural wonders, there’s something here to keep every member of the family occupied.
- Frankenmuth
Flickr/Ken Lund This charming town is a classic Michigan destination, and you simply must visit during your maiden voyage to the Great Lakes State. Walk through its Bavarian-themed downtown area, indulge in all things Christmas at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, or grab a chicken dinner at Zehnder’s. What’s not to love?
- Ludington State Park
Flickr/Tom Gill While it would be impossible to list out each and every one of Michigan’s amazing state parks, Ludington is undoubtedly worth mentioning. This gorgeous spot along Lake Michigan features a little bit of everything: soft sand, a towering lighthouse, and plenty of space to unwind along the beach. Oh, and did we mention that it’s completely breathtaking?
- Saugatuck
Flickr/Michael Lehet The tiny town of Saugatuck is an ideal spot for visitors seeking a quaint atmosphere and plenty of shopping. Make your way through this lovely community’s many downtown stores, stroll along the boardwalk to catch pretty views of the Kalamazoo River, or visit one of the area’s art galleries. There’s no better place to unwind and spend quality time with loved ones.
- Tahquamenon Falls
Flickr/George Thomas Who doesn’t love a beautiful waterfall? Make a stop at Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, which boasts breathtaking scenery, a gorgeous series of hiking paths, and — of course — some of the most lovely flowing water imaginable. This spot is a nature-lover’s paradise.
- Traverse City
Flickr/Michigan Municipal League Film festivals, great eats, and incredible natural scenery… what more could you ask for? You’ll find all of this and more in Traverse City, which has long stood as one of Michigan’s most delightful destinations. If you time your visit right, you might even have a chance to explore the city’s annual Cherry Festival, which is overflowing with sweet activities and attractions!
- The Sunrise Coast
Flickr/Josh Grenier If you’re a morning person, Michigan’s Sunrise Coast is the ideal mini road trip destination for you. Wake up early and enjoy gorgeous sunrises along the coast of Lake Huron — whether you choose to watch from Alpena, East Tawas, or all the way up in Mackinaw City, you’ll catch some of the most lovely views imaginable.
- Marquette
Flickr/Scott Wagner Adventurous types will have a blast in Marquette, the most populated city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Sip on a beer or two at Blackrocks Brewery, marvel at unbeatable views of Lake Superior, or simply stroll through the community’s charming downtown sector. Every Michigan visitor will find something to enjoy in Marquette and its stunning surrounding areas.
We want to hear from you, fellow Michiganders! Did we leave any of your favorite must-see spots off our list? Share your suggestions for first-time visitors in the comment section below.
Flickr/Rod
You could spend hours staring out at stunning Lake Michigan views from the lookouts at Sleeping Bear Dunes, which offer a little something for everyone. Travel along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, journey down (and back up) the dunes themselves, or simply marvel at the beauty of Michigan’s natural splendor.
Flickr/Iván Chaar-López
This Detroit gem has so much to offer. Whether you’re exploring the free Belle Isle Aquarium, checking out plant life within the Whitcomb Conservatory, or snapping photos of the Motor City skyline, you’ll find something to love during your journey to Belle Isle.
Flickr/Craig Piersma
Wine lovers will be in heaven with a visit to Michigan’s gorgeous Leelanau Peninsula, which houses over 20 wineries and some of the most magical shoreline views imaginable. You might wonder if you’ve been swept away to the rolling landscapes of Tuscany as you make your way through the region.
Flickr/Adventures On Wheels
Venture to the Upper Peninsula for a boat tour of Pictured Rocks, which boasts vibrant turquoise waters and some of the most surreally beautiful views in the state. Whether you opt for a shipwreck tour, a hike along the shoreline, or a quiet night in Munising, there’s something in this area that you’ll simply adore.
Flickr/Jasperdo
This popular destination is one of Michigan’s most famous attractions, and it’s easy to understand why. Take a ferry to the island and rent a bike to get around — there are no cars on Mackinac! From historic forts to natural wonders, there’s something here to keep every member of the family occupied.
Flickr/Ken Lund
This charming town is a classic Michigan destination, and you simply must visit during your maiden voyage to the Great Lakes State. Walk through its Bavarian-themed downtown area, indulge in all things Christmas at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, or grab a chicken dinner at Zehnder’s. What’s not to love?
Flickr/Tom Gill
While it would be impossible to list out each and every one of Michigan’s amazing state parks, Ludington is undoubtedly worth mentioning. This gorgeous spot along Lake Michigan features a little bit of everything: soft sand, a towering lighthouse, and plenty of space to unwind along the beach. Oh, and did we mention that it’s completely breathtaking?
Flickr/Michael Lehet
The tiny town of Saugatuck is an ideal spot for visitors seeking a quaint atmosphere and plenty of shopping. Make your way through this lovely community’s many downtown stores, stroll along the boardwalk to catch pretty views of the Kalamazoo River, or visit one of the area’s art galleries. There’s no better place to unwind and spend quality time with loved ones.
Flickr/George Thomas
Who doesn’t love a beautiful waterfall? Make a stop at Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, which boasts breathtaking scenery, a gorgeous series of hiking paths, and — of course — some of the most lovely flowing water imaginable. This spot is a nature-lover’s paradise.
Flickr/Michigan Municipal League
Film festivals, great eats, and incredible natural scenery… what more could you ask for? You’ll find all of this and more in Traverse City, which has long stood as one of Michigan’s most delightful destinations. If you time your visit right, you might even have a chance to explore the city’s annual Cherry Festival, which is overflowing with sweet activities and attractions!
Flickr/Josh Grenier
If you’re a morning person, Michigan’s Sunrise Coast is the ideal mini road trip destination for you. Wake up early and enjoy gorgeous sunrises along the coast of Lake Huron — whether you choose to watch from Alpena, East Tawas, or all the way up in Mackinaw City, you’ll catch some of the most lovely views imaginable.
Flickr/Scott Wagner
Adventurous types will have a blast in Marquette, the most populated city in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Sip on a beer or two at Blackrocks Brewery, marvel at unbeatable views of Lake Superior, or simply stroll through the community’s charming downtown sector. Every Michigan visitor will find something to enjoy in Marquette and its stunning surrounding areas.
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