24 Things to Do in Michigan & Best Places to Visit

Is Michigan on your list of states to visit this year? If not, it should be! This Midwestern state is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, as well as a wide range of things to see and do.

From exploring charming small towns to visiting stunning natural attractions, there is something for everyone in Michigan. To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of Michigan’s best places.

TL;DR

• Most significant landmark – Lake Michigan
• Best park – Isle Royale National Park
• Best free activity – Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum
• Best activity for kids – Henry Ford Museum
• Best activity for adults – Motown Museum of Detroit
• Best food – Mackinac Island fudge and Detroit-style pizza
• Best nightlife – Downtown Ann Arbor
• Best all-around accommodation – Graduate Ann Arbor Hotel

Best Places to Visit in Michigan & Things to Do

1. Downtown Ann Arbor

Regarding the best places to visit in Michigan, downtown Ann Arbor undeniably tops the list. This college town is home to a collection of things to see and do, from shopping and dining to arts and culture.

The Ark is a music venue with live music for over 300 nights yearly. The Blue LLama Jazz Club is another music venue with live music every night. It is known for combining a love of food with a love of music into one of the Midwest’s most unique and exciting dining and listening experiences. The Grotto, Lofi, and Old Town Tavern are also excellent choices for music.

Ann Arbor is also home to several parks, like the Ann Arbor City Park and the Huron Riverfront Park. Check out the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum if you’re after kid activities. This museum is perfect for families and features interactive science, art, and history exhibits. For a unique Ann Arbor experience, join a scavenger hunt tour around the city. You’ll learn all about the city’s history and see some of its most distinguished and memorable landmarks.

Suppose you’re looking for a place to rest your head near all of the action. In that case, the Graduate Ann Arbor Hotel, located right next to the University of Michigan campus, is an excellent option, while the Sheraton Ann Arbor is another in the heart of downtown. No matter your interest, you’ll find something to do in downtown Ann Arbor.

2. University of Michigan Museum of Natural History

Address: 1105 N University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109

The University of Michigan Museum of Natural History is one of the best things to do on the university’s campus. This museum is home to several changing exhibits, featured exhibits, virtual exhibits, and interactive spaces. Including a planetarium, an anthropology museum, and a natural history museum.

The UN/EARTH exhibit explores science and art from a mile underground. In the museum’s Collection Cases, museumgoers check out the rotating exhibits highlighting the university’s extensive research collections in paleontology, botany, zoology, and more.

The museum’s featured exhibits include Evolution: Life Through Time, where you will journey through four billion years of life on Earth to learn how the first organisms changed our world and how evolution connects all living things. Other featured exhibits include Exploring Michigan, Under the Microscope, People and the Planet, Measuring Time and Space, Prehistoric Whales, and more.

The planetarium at this museum is a must-see. The star theater is one of the largest in the world. The planetarium offers several shows throughout the year and several other public programs, including family nights and summer camps.

3. Fort Mackinac

Address: 7127 Huron Rd, Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Fort Mackinac is a National Historic Landmark and a former British and American fort on Mackinac Island in Michigan. The defense is now a historic site and museum which tells the story of Mackinac Island and its military history. Those checking out Fort Mackinac can explore the fort’s slew of buildings and learn about the island’s strategic importance during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.

The fort is also home to special events, like reenactments and living history programs. On tour through Fort Mackinac, you’ll learn about Mackinac Island’s British and American military history.

All fourteen buildings in the fort are restored and open to the public. They have period settings highlighting the building’s particular function or a themed exhibit. Special exhibits include Mackinac, An Island Famous in These Regions, which presents the entire history of Mackinac Island; Military Medicine at Mackinac: 1780-1895, which explores medical care at the fort and changing 19-century medical practices; Kids’ Quarters, which features hands-on displays and interactive games, and several more.

Fort Mackinac has varied hours depending on the time of year, so be sure to check their hours of operation and admission rates when planning your trip.

4. Palms Book State Park

Palms Book State Park is a great place to visit if you’re searching for outdoor things to do in Michigan in the summer. This 388-acre state park is a publicly-owned nature reserve, one of Michigan’s most visited attractions.

The focal point of Palms Book State Park is the Kitch-iti-kipi or Big Spring. This freshwater spring is one of the largest in the state and one of the world’s most substantial freshwater springs. The spring is the park’s highlight, but there are also several hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The park has clean, modern restrooms and even a gift shop.

With so much natural beauty to enjoy here, Palms Book State Park is a great place to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Michigan on a budget and want to get outdoors.

See Related: Best Tourist Destinations in the World

5. Holland

Conveniently located halfway between Detroit and Chicago, Holland is a great place to stop on a road trip through Michigan. The town has several Dutch-themed attractions, including the United States-only authentic, working Dutch windmill. Vacationers can also learn about the town’s history at the Holland Museum or stroll through Tulip Time Festival Park.

Of course, no visit to Holland would be complete without trying some of the town’s famous Dutch food. Stop by a local bakery for a fresh-baked pastry or enjoy a traditional meal of stamppot and kroketten at one of the town’s Dutch restaurants.

Holland is also a great place to shop for Dutch-themed souvenirs. You’ll find everything from wooden shoes to Delft pottery. Also, check out the Dutch Heritage Collection at the Holland Area Arts Council. The collection features work by local artists inspired by Dutch culture. The best time to visit Holland is during the town’s annual Tulip Time Festival.

The festival occurs in early May and celebrates Dutch culture with various events, including parades, concerts, and dance performances. Holland’s delightful and photographic town is a great place to visit any time of year.

6. Motown Museum of Detroit

Address: 2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208

Motown Museum is a global tourist destination for music and history fans. It celebrates the authentic story of Motown from its humble beginnings to its emergence as the “Sound of Young America” and beyond. The museum brings together fans, people, and ideas from different generations.

Motown Museum has several uniquely curated programs, including the Lyric Project, which is a two-week workshop where students will be immersed in songwriting and music production, the Ignite Summer Camp, which is a day program for high school singers and songwriters, the Spark Summer Camp, which is the same program for younger kids, as well as several others.

The museum hosts events throughout the city, such as Amplify: The Sound of Detroit Finale and Motown Mic: The Spoken Word Competition. Motown Museum is an excellent place for a quality tour, and you can book guided tours directly through the museum’s website.

The museum transports you into an era of musical magic. From the second you walk through the door, you’ll be greeted with the voices of Motown and a profound sense of history and significance.

7. Traverse City

Traverse City is an underrated city and an oft-overlooked Michigan gem. The city is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and is known for its sensational natural scenery and nectarous cherries. There are many things to do in Traverse City, including visiting the Dennos Museum Center, touring the Grand Traverse Bay, or exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Want to see Traverse City from a different perspective? Take a sunset sail cruise along the bay and enjoy the views of the city and its surroundings as you sip on some cocktails. One of the best ways to see the city is on a food or wine tour, where you can sample some of the best Traverse City offers.

Are you looking for things to do in Traverse City with kids? There are plenty of options. Visit the Children’s Zoo at Michigan State University or ride on the Little Traverse Wheelway. For something unique, check out the Traverse City Record-Eagle, where you can tour the newspaper’s facilities and learn how the news is made.

And if you’re interested in things to do in Traverse City during winter, the city doesn’t disappoint. Visit the Michigan ice caves, cross-country skiing at the Leelanau State Park, or ride the Traverse City Trolley.

See Related: Best Midwest Road Trips

8. Lake Huron

Lake Huron is one of the five Great Lakes in the northeastern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. The lake is a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike. The lake is a popular canoeing, kayaking, swimming, boating, and fishing destination in the summer. And in the winter, the lake is a delightful place to go ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.

Depending on your and your family’s interests, there are several ways to enjoy what the lake offers. But one of the more unique ways is to take a boat tour. Numerous companies offer boat tours around Lake Huron, and you’ll get to see some of the gorgeous landscapes in Michigan.

9. Windmill Island Gardens

Address: 1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI 49423

Windmill Island Gardens is a great place to visit with kids and toddlers. This public park has several attractions, including a playground, petting zoo, and carousel. The park’s highlight is the Dutch windmill, over 250 years old. Visitors can tour the windmill and climb to the top for a great park view. Windmill Island Gardens is a great place to spend a day and is one of the best things to do in Michigan in the summer.

The park is open daily from April through October, and there is an admission fee. However, if you’re visiting Holland during Tulip Time (the first week of May), admission to the park is free.

Windmill Island Gardens is a great place to visit and is one of the best things to do in Michigan in the summer. This public park is perfect for a day trip with family or friends.

10. Lake Michigan

Address: 615 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49686

What list would this be if it didn’t include one of the five Great Lakes? Especially if that lake had the name “Michigan” in it. As the only Great Lake in the United States, Lake Michigan is unsurprisingly a popular tourist destination for those looking to enjoy time by the water.

Spanning 1,640 miles of shoreline in four states (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin), there’s plenty to see and do around the lake. The lake offers miles and miles of sandy beaches to relax on and many restaurants and cafes catering to those looking for a bite to eat.

One of the most popular things to do is take a day sail from Traverse City. Since Traverse lies on the water, it’s the perfect location to set sail and explore Lake Michigan. On this tour, you’ll set sail on a schooner, help with the sailing process (if you prefer), and enjoy the lunch, snacks, and drinks included.

Of course, no trip to this iconic lake would be complete without spending time on one of its many beaches like Sleeping Bear Dunes, Silver Lake Sand Dunes, Grand Haven City Beach, or countless others. With such a long shoreline, and plenty of beaches, each with its unique atmosphere. Whether looking for a tranquil place to unwind or a lively beach town full of things to do, you’ll find it on Lake Michigan.

See Related: Best Pink Lakes in the World to Visit

11. Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

Address: 18335 N Whitefish Point Rd, Paradise, MI 49768

Do you know the story of the S.S. Edmund Fitzgerald, the 729-foot freighter that capsized and sank in Lake Superior in 1975? If not, you’ll learn all about it at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. This museum is located in Paradise, Michigan, and is devoted to commemorating the maritime history of the Great Lakes.

One of the most prominent things to do at the museum tours the Whitefish Point Light Station, a Historic Site on the National Register of Historic Places. The light station is located on a remote point in Lake Superior and is only accessible by boat.

It’s been in continuous operation for 155 years, the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point is open daily from May 1 to October 31, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

See Related: Best Unusual Museums in the U.S.

12. Holland State Park

Address: 2398 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424

Holland State Park is a public recreation area and state park located just outside of Holland in Ottawa County, Michigan. The state park is one of the most popular things to do in Michigan and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.

Holland State Park has two beaches on Lake Michigan and several other hiking trails. The park consists of Lake Macatawa and Lake Michigan and possesses an unimaginable shoreline with nearby dunes and forests. The two beaches at Holland State Park are the park’s focal points. As such, vacationers to the park’s beaches can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, picnicking, and more.

The park has several facilities, including restrooms, a campground, and a picnic area. Holland State Park is an excellent option if you’re looking for photographic sights in Michigan during the spring, summer, or fall.

See Related: Most Beautiful Valleys in the U.S.

13. Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park is located in Lake Superior, off the coast of Michigan. The park consists of one large island, over 400 smaller islands, and a section of the Canadian mainland. Isle Royale is known for its diversified ecosystem, including beavers, otters, moose, wolves, and red foxes.

The island is also home to a medley of plant life, including more than 40 endangered and threatened plant species, such as pearlwort, eastern paintbrush, and yellow mountain saxifrage.

Visitors to the park can enjoy hiking, camping, canoeing, and kayaking—several Ranger-led programs are run by the National Park Service, such as guided hikes and canoe tours.

One of the best ways to experience Isle Royale is to hike the island’s many trails. The park has over 165 miles of trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. You can also extend your hike overnight at one of the park’s backcountry campsites. Try paddling a canoe or kayak around the islands for something different. You can even rent a boat from one of the island’s marinas. Whatever you do, keep an eye out for the park’s wildlife.

Locals say the best time to visit the park is June or early fall to avoid the crowds. However, May, June, and September are great since the weather is cooler, campsites are less crowded, and the bugs aren’t as annoying. Be sure to pack your mosquito repellent, just in case, though.

See Related: Things to Do in Troy, Michigan

14. Michigan History Center

Address: 702 W Kalamazoo St, Lansing, MI 48915

For history buffs visiting Michigan, the Michigan History Center’s flagship museum, the Michigan History Museum, is a must-see. This five-story museum features a collection of interactive exhibits, educational programs, and protected artifacts. The museum covers all things Michigan, from its early inhabitants to its recent history. You’ll find exhibits on everything from the auto industry in their Detroit Auto Exhibit to the Underground Railroad.

In addition to the museum’s many exhibits, the Michigan History Center also offers a variety of educational programs. Museumgoers can take a guided tour or participate in one of the center’s many public events. The Michigan History Center is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission to the museum is free on Sundays for all visitors, so plan your visit accordingly.

See Related: Things to Do in Grand Rapids, Michigan

15. Mackinac Island State Park

Address: 7029 Huron Rd, Mackinac Island, MI 49757

Mackinac Island is a magical place that feels stuck in time. The island has elegant Victorian-style buildings, horse-drawn carriages, and brilliant water views. There is also a medley of things to do, like taking a carriage tour of the island, visiting the Fort Mackinac State Park, or exploring the many shops and eateries. A history tour of the renowned Mackinac Bridge is also praised while on the island.

Mackinac Island has several historical sites, like the Fort above Mackinac and the Grand Hotel. And don’t forget to try the island’s famous fudge. Mackinac Island is the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy some time in nature – and eat fudge.

Mackinac Island is open all year round, but ferry service is limited in the winter months. There are a variety of hotels and vacation rentals available on Mackinac Island if you’d like an extended stay. I recommend Harbour View Inn, located right on the water and offers stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge. Add Mackinac Island to your list for a unique and magical place to visit. It’s an extraordinary place you won’t find anywhere else in the state.

See Related: Best National Parks to Visit in November

16. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

Address: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124

We are calling all car enthusiasts! A visit to the Henry Ford Museum is necessary for anyone interested in American innovation and history. The museum is home to over 12,000 artifacts that tell the story of America’s progress, including the first car ever built in the country.

You’ll also find famous vehicles like the presidential limousines of JFK and FDR and the Wright brothers’ bicycle shop. The museum’s extensive collection of artifacts tells the story of America’s history through innovation.

At the museum, you’ll even find the infamous car that JFK was riding in when he was (*cough* allegedly) assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald! The care was later rebuilt and restored and used frequently by Lyndon B Johnson and Richard Nixon before retiring in 1977.

In addition to cars, the Ford Museum is home to an extensive collection of Americana. You’ll find everything from quilts and furniture to dolls and dishes.

There’s even a section dedicated to Abraham Lincoln, with artifacts like the blood-stained gloves he wore when he was shot. The museum is extensive, so you’ll want to give yourself a lot of time to explore. And don’t forget to hop over to the on-site café for a bite.

17. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Address: 9922 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a glorious stretch of the Michigan coastline along Lake Michigan. Here, you’ll find lush forests, unique plant and animal life, and rocky bluffs tower hundreds of feet above Lake Michigan.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Over 100 miles of hiking trails wind through forests, dunes, and the lake shore. Or take a scenic drive along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive to see the dunes from the comfort of your car.

The lakeshore is also home to various camping sites, both primitive and developed. And if you’re searching for a place to cool off, there are several beaches along the lakeshore where you can swim, sunbathe, and relax.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is open all year round. However, some areas and trails may be closed due to weather conditions. For those wanting to visit Sleeping Bear Dunes for the day, I’d recommend joining a day tour of the park from nearby Traverse City (we’ll get onto that later). A guided tour will ensure you make the most of your time at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore without the hassle of planning your trip.

See Related: Best Beaches in the U.S. to Visit

18. Michigan Science Center 

Address: 5020 John R St, Detroit, MI 48202

Have you ever asked yourself what it would be like to walk on the moon? Or what happens to your food when you eat it? You can find out the answer to these questions and more at the Michigan Science Center. This Detroit landmark is unequaled for a day of family fun. The center features over 250 interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a 4D theater. You can also participate in one of the center’s many public programs, like laser shows and science demos.

One of the most prominent exhibits at the Science Center is The Body: Anatomy in Motion. This exhibit lets you explore the human body through various interactive displays. You can also see how math and science are used in everyday life at the MathAlive! Exhibit.

And be sure to check out the planetarium show for a truly marvelous experience. The center is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays and open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets can be booked online in advance or purchased at the door.

See Related: Best Museums in the U.S.

19. Detroit Institute of Arts

Address: 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202

The Detroit Institute of Arts is home to a boundless collection of more than 65,000 artworks from the earliest civilizations. The museum offers visitors an encounter with human creativity from all over the world.

In addition to the museum’s 100 galleries, it also offers an assortment of educational programs, including resources for teachers, professional development workshops, field trips, guided gallery experiences, a program called Meaning Through Art-Making, and the Teen Arts Council, which gives intends to give a voice and creative outlet to youth.

While in Detroit, consider joining one of the heaps of distinctive tours around the city. We recommend the Detroit architecture walking tour, where participants will learn about the history and architecture of these buildings and get to see them up close.

For my foodies, hop on a tour of Detroit and indulge in some of the city’s best cuisine, like Biggby coffee, Coney Island hot dogs, and Detroit-style pizza. The Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the best things to do in Detroit and is a must-visit for anyone interested in art. With so much to see and do, you’ll want to add this museum to your Michigan travel itinerary.

20. Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum

Address: 1800 N Dixboro Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105

Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum is a must-see for Ann Arbor residents. This large public garden is home to a potpourri of different plant species and countless specialized gardens. Visitors can see the Bonsai and Penjing Garden, the Gaffield Children’s Garden, the Alexandra Hicks Herb Knot Garden, the Perennial Garden, the Medicinal Garden, and much more.

There are several walking trails throughout the gardens, and you can even take a guided tour. The arboretum is also a great place to take a walk or run and is one of the best things to do in Ann Arbor in the summer. And the best part is, it’s completely free.

The Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum is a great place to spend a day looking for things to do in Ann Arbor. If you’re interested in learning more about the plants and gardens, the nursery also offers a variety of educational programs and events. They even offer wedding packages, making it a beautiful place to get married.

See Related: Best Spring Break Destinations for Families

21. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Address: 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525

One of the best things to do in Grand Rapids is visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. This incredible park horticulture display garden has various things to see and do. The gardens feature different themed arrangements, like the Japanese Garden and the Butterfly Garden.

There’s also the remarkable sculpture park with over 200 sculptures by world-renowned artists. And if you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love the Children’s Garden, which features a playground, water features, and more.

In addition to the gardens and sculpture park, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park also offers educational programs, including school, youth & family, and adult programs. Several classes and camps exist for children and their families, including Little Bakers: Afternoon Cookie Time, Creating with Wool: Mini Felted Sculptures, and Let the Sun In: Solar-Dyed Garden Flags.

There are several classes and camps for teens and adults, including Maintaining the Perennial Garden, The Art and Science of Fly Tying, Permaculture for Beginners, Art Journaling, and much more. Be sure to check their class program list for the most up-to-date offerings.

If you’re looking for a unique and beautiful place to visit in Michigan, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is essential.

22. Boyne Mountain Resort 

Address: 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713

This premier Northern Michigan ski resort is perfect for those looking for things to do in Michigan in the winter. The resort offers various activities, including downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more. There are also several other shops and restaurants at the resort so that you can make a day of it.

If you’re researching things to do in Michigan in the winter, Boyne Mountain Resort is a great place to visit. This resort has something for everyone, with various activities, shops, and restaurants.

And if skiing isn’t your thing, the resort also offers golfing, spa, biking, and even ziplining in the summer. All types of travelers can easily find something to do at Boyne Mountain Resort – parents at Boyne Mountain can relax by the pool or at the spa while the kids enjoy the resort’s kids club.

No matter what time of year you visit, Boyne Mountain Resort is a great place to spend a day or two. The resort is open all year round, and each activity has an admission fee. However, the resort offers various discounts and deals if you’re researching things to do in Michigan on a budget. With so much on offer, you’ll never be bored at this Michigan resort.

See Related: Proven Ways to Get Free Hotel Rooms

23. Belle Isle Park

Address: 2 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207

Belle Isle Park is the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy fun in the sun. This Michigan beach is located on Belle Isle, a beautiful island park in the middle of the Detroit River. The park’s beach offers remarkable views of the Detroit skyline and is the perfect place to loosen up and worship the sun. The water here is clean and clear, making it an ideal location for a rejuvenating swim.

Visitors can take advantage of the many free things on Belle Isle, like exploring the nature center, taking a scenic walk through the gardens, or visiting the Belle Isle Aquarium. There is no cost to enter the park as a pedestrian or cyclist, though a recreation passport is required if you plan on driving onto the island.

Many hotel and apartment options are available nearby if you’re thinking of making a weekend out of your trip to Belle Isle. For example, this stunning Belle Isle bungalow is perfect for families or friends.

24. Upper Peninsula

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula region (known by locals as the U.P. – and they as “yoopers”) is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a variety of things to do in Michigan. The U.P. has several attractions, including Mackinac Island, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Tahquamenon Falls.

In the winter, the U.P. is perfect for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. And in the summer, you can enjoy things like camping, hiking, and kayaking. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something to do in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The Upper Peninsula is a great place to visit if you love the outdoors since there are several hiking trails, camping, fishing, and kayaking.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a Michigan destination you can’t miss if you want to get out of the city and spend some time in nature. This national lakeshore has several hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural rock formations.

The Upper Peninsula is also home to several different historical sites. If you’re interested in learning about the history of Michigan, the U.P. is a great place to visit. Mackinac Island is a popular destination for history buffs and tourists alike. This island was once the site of Fort Mackinac, and today it’s a popular place for things to do in Michigan, like horseback riding, biking, and exploring the island’s historic sites.

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