Michigan, meaning “large lake,” is filled with over 3,200 miles of stunning shoreline and wow-inducing wilderness. I spent a month exploring this scenic Midwest state in July and I’ve made a list of the places that really stole my heart…
1. Mackinac Island
This car-free island completely charmed me with its sugar-sand and pebble beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, pine-scented forest trails, dramatic limestone Arch Rock, and flower-draped Victorian buildings. After a short drive to Mackinaw City and a breezy 20-minute ferry, I felt like I’d stepped back in time into a wonderfully romantic, old-world escape!
I spent four blissful days at the super-cute Island House Hotel, biking the 8.2-mile Shoreline Trail, exploring the historic Fort Mackinac, taking afternoon tea at the elegant Grand Hotel, hiking to the Insta-worthy Arch Rock (my photo is above), unwinding on the quiet British Landing Beach, and indulging in Murdick’s highly decadent fudge. I have to admit it was pretty busy with day-trippers in downtown during my summer visit, so I’d suggest coming in spring or fall if you prefer fewer crowds.
Location: Northern Michigan, in Lake Huron | Size: small island (around 4 square miles) | Vibe: romantic with Victorian-era charm
My favorite highlights…
- Seeing fudge being made then sampling it at Murdick’s Fudge Shop – the velvety Maple Walnut, the intense Double Chocolate Espresso and sweet-tart Mackinac cherry chocolate were my favorites!
2. Tahquamenon Falls
Framed by gorgeous emerald forest and atmospheric misty river vistas, I loved how Tahquamenon Falls – a stunning pair of amber-colored waterfalls roared with raw power and exuded a wild and dramatic beauty!
It took me about 1 hour 20 minutes from Cut River Bridge along peaceful forested backroads to my cozy base at Tahquamenon Suites Lodging, and I spent a full day exploring. I hiked the gorgeous River Trail between the Upper and Lower Falls, rowed a little rental boat right up close to the Lower Falls, and soaked up the views at the Upper Falls Overlook, where I stood close enough to feel the rumble of the water and the cool spray splashing across my face!
Location: Michigan’s Upper Peninsula within Tahquamenon Falls State Park | Size: Upper Falls ~200 ft wide, 50 ft drop | Vibe: wild with a peaceful, back-to-nature feel
My personal highlights…
- Staying at the Tahquamenon Suites Lodging – I loved how they were only minutes away from the falls, how the huge spots were spotless and the super convenient self check-in using a door code sent by text!
3. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
This 42-mile stretch of Lake Superior completely dazzled me — rainbow-striped sandstone cliffs, hidden caves, natural arches, sandy beaches, tumbling waterfalls, a backdrop of thick forest and a remote and adventurous vibe all made it one of the most spectacular places I came across on my road trip!
After a 2-hour drive west from Crisp Point Lighthouse, I based myself at the charming Roam Inn in Munising for two nights. I kayaked beneath the imposing Painted Cliffs, hiked the picturesque Chapel Loop to Chapel Falls, dived in chilly Lake Superior, toured the photogenic Au Sable Light Station, and then unwound on peaceful Sand Point Beach. Locals told me it was just as magical in winter, when ice climbing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling take over the landscapes.
Location: Northern shoreline of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula along Lake Superior | Size: ~42-miles | Vibe: wild, rugged, and dreamily scenic | Wildlife: Black bears, foxes, snowshoe hares, bald eagles, peregrine falcons
My personal highlights…
- Going scuba diving in the clear waters of Lake Superior and seeing the wreck of The Smith Moore – an 1889 steamer lying eerily intact with its railings, winches, and sections of the wooden deck still visible!
4. Holland State Park Beach
This Lake Michigan beach located in Holland State Park 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: Lake Michigan shoreline near Holland in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula | Size: ~142-acres | Vibe: classic and family-friendly
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: Petoskey on the shores of Little Traverse Bay, Lower Peninsula | Size: compact shopping district with 170+ boutiques, cafés, and galleries | Vibe: charming, old-world and storybook-pretty
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: Central United States, bordered by Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana | Size: ~22,400 sq miles | Vibe: vast, calm, and ocean-like
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: Remote island cluster in northwest Lake Superior, Upper Peninsula | Size: ~894 sq miles | Vibe: true off-the-grid, back-to-nature wilderness feel | 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: Lake Michigan shoreline between Ludington and Hamlin Lake in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula | Size: ~5,300 acres | Vibe: classic Great Lakes outdoorsy escape | Wildlife: White-tailed deer, beavers, turtles, bald eagles
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 The 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: Remote Lake Superior shoreline, Upper Peninsula | Size: 58-ft | Vibe: atmospheric and remote with a wild, end-of-the-earth feel
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” the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park 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: Western Upper Peninsula | Size: ~60,000 acres | Vibe: wild, remote, and timeless | Wildlife: Moose, black bears, red foxes, bald eagles
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: St. Joseph, Southwest Michigan (eastern shore of Lake Michigan) | Size: ~2,400 feet of beachfront, 40+ acres of parkland | Vibe: classic Midwestern beach-town fun | Wildlife: gulls, terns, migratory shorebirds | Facilities: Restrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, grills, playground, and splash pad
My favorite highlights…
- Hunting for antiques and vintage items in downtown St. Joseph afterwards, I loved checking out the 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 State Park 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: Barry County, Southwest Michigan | Size: ~5,200 acres | Vibe: rustic, woodsy, and adventure-friendly | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, foxes, coyotes, owls, and migrating songbirds
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: Mackinac County, Eastern Upper Peninsula (along US-2 near Lake Michigan) | Size: small roadside park | Vibe: scenic, windswept, and a little dramatic | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, porcupines, hawks
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: Marquette, Northern Upper Peninsula (Lake Superior shoreline) | Size: ~323 acres | Vibe: rugged, windswept, and wonderfully wild | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, red foxes, porcupines, hawks, owls, and migrating songbirds
My favorite highlights…
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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: Keweenaw Peninsula, Northern Upper Peninsula | Size: ~585 skiable acres | Vibe: hardcore, backcountry-style | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, snowshoe hares, porcupines, and the occasional black bear
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: Ann Arbor, Southeast Michigan | Size: ~3,200 acres across Central, North, and South Campuses | Vibe: scholarly, energetic, and culturally rich
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, West Michigan | Size: ~158 acres | Vibe: serene, art-meets-nature | Wildlife: songbirds, ducks, turtles, butterflies, frogs, and friendly garden squirrels
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: Keweenaw Peninsula, Northern Upper Peninsula | Size: 35+ miles of interconnected singletrack | Vibe: remote and rugged | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, black bears, bald eagles, and migrating songbirds
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!
Wow! This is a really wonderful location. And I love it, as well as the cool images.