18 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Michigan

4. Holland State Park Beach

This Lake Michigan beach instantly won me over with its endless stretch of soft golden sand, sparkling blue waters perfect for swimming, rolling dunes, and the iconic bright-red lighthouse standing proudly at the channel — it felt like pure coastal charm!

I drove about an hour north from Silver Beach County Park to reach it, and once there the sunny, family-friendly vibe made me want to stay all day. I swam in the refreshing lake, snapped photos of Big Red, hiked up the Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk and saw incredible panoramic views, and paddled across Lake Macatawa by kayak and paddleboard (thanks to the handy rentals right on site)!

• Location: Western Michigan, on the Lake Michigan shoreline in Holland
• Location Map
• Size: 142 acres
• Wildlife: Shorebirds, gulls, ducks, small mammals in dune areas
• Holland State Park Website

My favorite highlights…

• Camping overnight at the Beach Campground – waking up to the gorgeous views of the lake and nearby dunes with a scent of pine in the salty-fresh was an awesome experience!

5. Historic Gaslight District, Petoskey

I thought Petoskey was gorgeous with its ornate Victorian-era buildings, brick-lined streets glowing under vintage-style gas lamps, and postcard-perfect views of Little Traverse Bay.

A scenic 25-minute drive north along US-31 from Charlevoix brought me to the heart of downtown, which felt quaint yet elegant with a strong old-world charm. I spent the afternoon browsing unique gifts at Grandpa Shorter’s, enjoying a cozy meal at Chandler’s, gazing at stunning bay views from Pennsylvania Park, and then staying two blissful nights at the beautifully located 4-star Inn at Bay Harbor. It was very charming place but I found the boutique prices were a little higher than other small towns in the state.

• Location: Northern Lower Peninsula, on Little Traverse Bay in Lake Michigan, northern Michigan
• Location Map
• Population size: Around 5,800 residents

My personal highlights… 

• Shopping for quirky souvenirs in Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts – I especially loved the locally found fossilized coral pieces (known as Petoskey stones) which had been transformed into unique gifts and jewelry and the store’s own line of delicious caramel corn!

6. Lake Michigan

This sprawling freshwater inland sea wowed me with its endless sandy beaches, hidden pebble coves, dramatic dunes like Sleeping Bear, historic lighthouses, charming lakeside towns, and sparkling blue waters—it felt like the ultimate Great Lakes escape!

After a 2.5-hour drive north from Ludington State Park, I reached Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which struck me as expansive, refreshing, and perfectly laid-back. I spent an outdoor-focused four days climbing the famous Dune Climb, hiking over to South Manitou Island, touring Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and unwinding on the soft sands of Michigan Beach Park.

• Location: Western edge of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula (the lake is so vast it borders Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana)
• Location Map
• Size: 22,400 square miles, depth up to 923 feet
• Wildlife: Lake trout, salmon, white-tailed deer, piping plovers

My favorite highlights…

• Staying in the clean and modern apartment in 116 Edgewater Inn – I loved the outdoor swimming pool and how they were near the famous Mushroom Houses designed by Earl Young and the boutique and wine bar lined Bridge Street! 

7. Isle Royale National Park

I thought Isle Royale was truly breathtaking with its wild Lake Superior shoreline, pebble beaches, dense evergreen forests, sparkling inland lakes, and striking historic lighthouses.

From Copper Harbor, I took the seasonal 3.5-hour ferry and instantly loved the isolated, off-the-grid feel—locals told me it was impossible to reach in winter thanks to harsh weather. I stayed three nights at the stunningly-located Rock Harbor Lodge, hiked the Greenstone Ridge Trail and saw gorgeous panoramic views, dived the intriguing SS America shipwreck, and explored the atmospheric Rock Harbor Lighthouse.

• Location: Lake Superior, far northwestern part of the state.
• Map Location
• Size: 73,000 acres, 42 miles of shoreline
• Wildlife: Wolves, moose, foxes, snowshoe hares, bald eagles, peregrine falcons

My favorite highlights…

• Diving the incredibly clear waters to see the wreck of SS America which sank in 1928 – I was amazed by how intact the ship still was — with its railings, winches, and pilot house eerily preserved!

8. Ludington State Park

Framed by golden sands, rolling dunes, tranquil forest trails, and the striking Big Sable Point Lighthouse, I thought Ludington State Park was one of Lake Michigan’s most beautiful lakeside spots.

A 2-hour drive north from Holland State Park Beach along scenic US-31 brought me to this peaceful, nature-focused park with classic lakeshore vibes. I spent the day swimming at the breezy family-friendly Lake Michigan Beach, hiking the pretty Lost Lake Trail, photographing the striking Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and paddleboarding across calm Hamlin Lake.

• Location: Western Michigan, between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake near Ludington
• Map Location
• Size: 5,300 acres
• Wildlife: White-tailed deer, beavers, turtles, bald eagles
• Ludington State Park Website

My favorite highlights… 

• Camping overnight at Pines Campground which I found located in shaded forest near Hamlin Lake and has a short trail leading straight to the beach – it was awesome to fall asleep and wake to the distant sound of waves!

9. The Crisp Point Lighthouse

I thought Crisp Point Lighthouse was a real standout—this remote 58-foot 1904 tower, capped with a red lantern, rose above a rugged Lake Superior shoreline where crashing waves met sandy beaches and thick, untouched forest.

An hour’s drive west from Tahquamenon Falls along remote rural roads brought me to this secluded, picture-perfect spot with a wild, rugged edge. I spent two hours climbing the lighthouse to still glistening lake views, picnicking by the sandy shore, and snapping photos along the long beach.

• Location: Upper Peninsula, Lake Superior shoreline between Tahquamenon Falls and Pictured Rocks
• Map Location
• Height: 58 feet
• Wildlife: Wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, beavers, great blue herons
• The Crisp Point Lighthouse Website

My favorite highlights…

• Having a picnic at a table near the base where I just sat, ate, and gazed up at its striking red lantern and the incredible wild shoreline where waves crashed very atmospherically against the sandy beach! 

10. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Known as the “Porkies,” this 1944-protected wilderness wowed me with its ancient forests, dramatic ridgelines, glittering waterfalls, and stunning Lake Superior vistas.

After a 2 hour 50 minute drive west from Presque Isle Park, I based myself at the nearby AmericInn by Wyndham Silver City (which was just a six minute drive away) and the park felt wonderfully wild, remote, and untamed. Over two days I hiked the scenic Escarpment Trail, climbed the towering Summit Peak Observation Tower, explored the historic Carp Lake Mine ruins, and photographed the stunning Lake of the Clouds.

• Location: Northwestern Upper Peninsula along Lake Superior
• Map Location
• Size: 59,000 acres
• Wildlife: Moose, black bears, red foxes, bald eagles
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park Website

My personal highlights…

• Exploring the fascinating ruins of the slightly creepy Carp Lake Mine located in the park – it was a surreal experience stepping and feeling the sudden shift from sunlight to chilling darkness!

11. Silver Beach County Park

With its golden sands, historic red-and-white South Pier Lighthouse, and lively lakefront complete with picnic pavilions and the vintage Silver Beach Carousel, I thought Silver Beach County Park was a true gem!

It was the first stop on my Michigan road trip—I flew into Chicago O’Hare, drove 1 hour 45 minutes east to the waterfront The Inn at Harbor Shores, and found a beach buzzing with family-friendly energy and nostalgic lakeside charm. My afternoon was spent swimming and sunbathing, strolling the scenic South Pier to the iconic North Pier Lighthouse, riding the whimsical Silver Beach Carousel, and ending the day with sunset views at the playful Whirlpool Compass Fountain

• Location: Southwestern Michigan, in St. Joseph on Lake Michigan
• Location Map
• Size: 27 acres
• Facilities: Restrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, grills, playground, and splash pad
• Wildlife: Gulls, shorebirds, small lake fish
• Silver Beach County Park Website

My favorite highlights…

• Hunting for antiques and vintage items in downtown St. Joseph afterwards, I loved browsing quaint antique stores filled with weathered lake-themed décor, cool retro signs, mid-century glassware, and old travel postcards.

12. Yankee Springs State Park

Often overlooked, Yankee Springs charmed me with its glacially carved hills and lakes, hardwood forests, peaceful shores, and the unusual Devil’s Soupbowl, a striking depression left by retreating glaciers.

After an 8-hour drive south from Isle Royale, I reached this rustic inland park near Middleville, which felt quiet and refreshingly off the beaten path. I hiked the wooded Hall Lake and rugged Devil’s Soupbowl Trails, kayaked across sparkling Gun Lake with park rentals, and spent the night in a cozy cabin with gorgeous waterfront views.

• Location: Lower Peninsula, Barry County, southwestern Michigan 
• Location Map
• Size: 5,200 acres
• Wildlife: Wild turkeys, white-tailed deer, beavers, great blue herons
• Yankee Springs State Park Website

My highlights… 

• Staying overnight at the Yankee Springs Long Lake Outdoor Center and Cabins – it was an awesome experience waking to mist over the lake, hearing morning loon calls, and sipping locally roasted Madcap Coffee Company coffee on my porch! 

13. Cut River Bridge State Roadside Park

I had to include Cut River Bridge—this soaring steel span crossed a dramatic gorge with panoramic Lake Michigan views and tranquil forest trails tucked below.

After returning from Mackinac Island, I drove 50 minutes west along US-2 into the Upper Peninsula and found a spot that felt scenic, quiet, and delightfully hidden. I spent the afternoon walking the bridge and seeing breathtaking vistas, hiking the shaded Gorge Trail, and pausing at the roadside overlook for an Instagram-worthy view.

• Location: Northwestern Mackinac County, Upper Peninsula, along US-2 near Lake Michigan
• Location Map
• Wildlife: Songbirds, small mammals, deer

My highlights…

• I loved how there I felt a faint sway when walking across the pedestrian path on the bridge — it was little vertigo-inducing, but unforgettable at the same time!

14. Presque Isle Park

I thought Presque Isle Park was stunning with its black volcanic cliffs, quiet pebble and sand coves, dense old-growth forest, and a quaint stone pavilion overlooking Lake Superior’s endless blue.

A 1 hour 15 minute drive west from Pictured Rocks brought me to Marquette’s peaceful peninsula, which felt immersed in nature with just the right touch of rugged charm. My afternoon was spent driving the scenic Presque Isle Loop, watching daring cliff jumpers at the dramatic Black Rocks, relaxing at peaceful Sunset Point, and spotting interesting wildlife along the lakeshore.

• Location: central Upper Peninsula on the Lake Superior shore
• Location Map
• Size: 323 acres
• Wildlife: White-tailed deer, raccoons, snow geese, bald eagles
• Presque Isle Park Website

My favorite highlights…

• Watching the cliff jumpers (who were braver than me!) in the Black Rocks area – I loved how the jagged black volcanic rocks contrasted with the shimmering turquoise waters! It was a very photogenic spot!

15. Mount Bohemia

Mount Bohemia surprised me in summer with its rugged slopes, sweeping Lake Superior and Lac La Belle views, rustic lodges, snug yurts, and untouched backcountry landscapes.

Just 25 minutes south of Copper Harbor along Lac La Belle Road, I based myself at the cozy Aqua Log Cabins Resort, where the whole area felt adventurous, rustic, and wonderfully off the grid. My day was filled with summit trail hikes, paddleboarding on secluded Lac La Belle, zip-lining through the canopy, and unwinding in the outdoor sauna (my favorite!). Locals also told me that in winter it transforms into one of the Midwest’s snowiest, most challenging backcountry ski destinations.

• Location: Northern Keweenaw Peninsula, Upper Peninsula
• Location Map
• Size: Ski area covering over 500 acres
• Wildlife: Black bears, moose, foxes, bald eagles
• Mount Bohemia Website

My favourite highlights…

• Relaxing in the Scandinavian-style outdoor sauna located here – I loved the scent of fresh cedarwood and stepping outside afterwards to cool off in the very fresh mountain air while gazing at the views over Lac La Belle!

16. The University of Michigan

Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan impressed me with its grand Gothic and Beaux-Arts buildings, leafy quads, seasonal gardens, and lively campus vibe.

After a 2-hour drive southeast from Frederik Meijer Gardens, I arrived in Ann Arbor and found the campus scholarly yet welcoming with rich historic charm. I explored the gothic Law Quadrangle, climbed the towering Burton Memorial Tower, strolled the lush Matthaei Botanical Gardens, and relaxed on the Diag’s sprawling green lawn.

• Location: Southeastern Lower Peninsula, in Ann Arbor
• Location Map
• Population size: Ann Arbor has around 123,000 residents
• University of Michigan Website

My personal highlights…

• The Diag which was a buzzy central green space where students sprawled on blankets, played frisbee between classes, and a even street musician strummed guitar under the shade of a towering oak – it was a vibe!

17. Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park

With its colorful blooms, tranquil and fragrant Japanese Garden and teahouse, tropical conservatory, and striking large-scale sculptures, I thought Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park was a true gem.

A 45-minute drive northwest from Yankee Springs brought me to Grand Rapids, where the gardens felt artistic, peaceful, and inspiring with a touch of cultural elegance. I spent the afternoon wandering the serene Japanese Garden, admiring striking outdoor sculptures, exploring the lush Tropical Conservatory, and enjoying the fragrant blooms in the Michigan Farm Garden.

• Location: Grand Rapids, western Lower Peninsula
• Location Map
• Size: 158 acres
• Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park Website

My personal highlights… 

• The sculptures – my favorite was the “The American Horse” a huge 24-foot-tall bronze horse by acclaimed artist Nina Akamu. It was so intricate, it almost looked alive to me!

18. Copper Harbor Trails

After a 3-hour drive from the Porkies to the Keweenaw Peninsula’s tip, the trails felt adventurous, raw, and full of wilderness beauty. I hiked the picturesque Keweenaw Point Trail for its calm lake views, admired the sprawling panoramas from Brockway Mountain, and watched riders fly down the thrilling Flow mountain biking trail.

• Location: Northern Keweenaw Peninsula, Upper Peninsula
• Map Location
• Size: Trail network spanning dozens of miles
• Wildlife: Black bears, moose, bald eagles, loons

My favorite highlights…

• Seeing world-class riders handle razor-sharp switchbacks, rugged rock drops, and narrow wooden boardwalks with such ease was nothing short of jaw-dropping!