bigtravelbuzzMichigan is a state located in the Great Lakes region of the United States. It is known for its natural beauty, including the Great Lakes, sand dunes, and forests. It is also home to several large cities, including Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor. Here are some things to know before you visit Michigan:
Climate: Michigan has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm and humid, while winters can be cold with heavy snowfall in some parts of the state.
Outdoor activities: Michigan is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can go hiking, fishing, boating, camping, and skiing in the state’s many parks and recreational areas.
Lakes: Michigan is known as the Great Lakes State because it borders four of the five Great Lakes. Lake Michigan is the only one entirely within the state’s borders, and it is home to many beautiful beaches.
Food: Michigan has a diverse food scene, including unique dishes like Coney dogs, pasties, and cherry pie. The state is also known for its craft beer and wine.
Sports: Michigan is home to several professional sports teams, including the Detroit Tigers (baseball), Detroit Lions (football), and Detroit Pistons (basketball).
Museums: Michigan has many museums worth visiting, including the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library.
Mackinac Island: This historic island located between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas is known for its Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and fudge shops.
University of Michigan: The University of Michigan is one of the top public universities in the United States and is located in Ann Arbor. The campus is beautiful and offers many cultural and educational opportunities.
Urban areas: Michigan’s largest cities, including Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor, offer many cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and music venues.
Travel: Michigan is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Major airports include Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport and Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids.
Places to Visit in Michigan
Michigan is a state with a diverse range of attractions, from natural wonders to cultural hotspots. Here are some of the top places to visit in Michigan:
Mackinac Island – This historic island is located between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and is known for its Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and fudge shops.
Sleeping Bear Dunes – This beautiful area along the Lake Michigan shoreline features towering sand dunes, stunning vistas, and pristine beaches.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – This stunning stretch of Lake Superior shoreline is known for its towering cliffs, sandstone formations, and crystal-clear water.
Detroit – Michigan’s largest city is home to several cultural attractions, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Motown Museum, and the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.
Grand Rapids – This vibrant city is known for its craft beer scene and art museums, including the Grand Rapids Art Museum and the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park.
Ann Arbor – Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor is a vibrant college town with a thriving arts and culture scene.
Holland – This charming town on the shores of Lake Michigan is known for its Dutch heritage, including windmills, tulip festivals, and wooden shoe dancing.
Traverse City – This picturesque town is located on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay and is known for its wineries, beaches, and outdoor activities.
Frankenmuth – This small town is known for its Bavarian-style architecture, traditional German food, and world-famous Christmas store, Bronner’s.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park – This beautiful state park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula features two impressive waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic vistas.
Best Time To Visit Michigan
The best time to visit Michigan depends on your interests and preferences. Michigan experiences all four seasons, with cold winters and warm summers. Here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit Michigan based on activities and weather:
Summer (June to August) – This is the most popular time to visit Michigan, especially for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and boating. Temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, and there are numerous festivals and events throughout the state.
Fall (September to November) – Michigan is known for its stunning fall foliage, particularly in the Upper Peninsula. This is also a great time for apple picking, cider tasting, and other fall activities. Temperatures range from the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit.
Winter (December to February) – Michigan’s winter season is perfect for skiing, snowmobiling, and other winter sports. Temperatures can range from below freezing to the low 30s Fahrenheit.
Spring (March to May) – Spring is a great time to visit Michigan for budding flowers and warmer temperatures. It’s also a great time for birdwatching, as many species migrate through the state. Temperatures range from the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit.
Overall, the best time to visit Michigan is during the summer months if you’re interested in outdoor activities and festivals, and during the fall for the beautiful fall foliage.
Things to Do in Michigan
Michigan has a wide range of things to do and see, from natural wonders to cultural attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Michigan:
Explore the Great Lakes – Michigan is home to four of the five Great Lakes, and there are numerous opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and beachcombing.
Visit Mackinac Island – This historic island is located between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas and is known for its Victorian architecture, horse-drawn carriages, and fudge shops.
Tour the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village – Located in Dearborn, this museum complex showcases the history of American innovation and industry.
See the Sleeping Bear Dunes – This beautiful area along the Lake Michigan shoreline features towering sand dunes, stunning vistas, and pristine beaches.
Hike in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – This stunning stretch of Lake Superior shoreline is known for its towering cliffs, sandstone formations, and crystal-clear water.
Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts – This world-renowned museum in Detroit features an extensive collection of art from around the world.
Taste the wine in Traverse City – This picturesque town on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay is known for its wineries, beaches, and outdoor activities.
Ski or snowboard at one of Michigan’s many ski resorts – Michigan has numerous ski resorts, including Boyne Mountain and Crystal Mountain.
Take a scenic drive on the Great Lakes Circle Tour – This 4,600-mile route takes you around all five of the Great Lakes, including Michigan’s stunning coastline.
Visit the Soo Locks – Located in Sault Ste. Marie, the Soo Locks allow ships to travel between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Michigan. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural attractions, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the state, Michigan has something to offer for everyone.
How to get around in Michigan
Getting around in Michigan is easy thanks to its well-developed road network and public transportation options. Here are some of the best ways to get around in Michigan:
Car – Renting a car is a popular way to explore Michigan, especially if you plan to visit multiple destinations or want to take a scenic drive. Major car rental companies are available at airports and in cities throughout the state.
Public transportation – Many cities in Michigan have public transportation systems, including buses and light rail trains. Detroit, for example, has the Detroit People Mover, a light rail system that connects the downtown area with popular attractions.
Ride-sharing services – Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Michigan, especially in larger cities like Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor.
Bike – Many cities in Michigan have bike-sharing programs, and there are also numerous bike trails and bike-friendly roads throughout the state.
Train – Amtrak provides train service to several cities in Michigan, including Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Grand Rapids. The Pere Marquette line, which runs between Chicago and Grand Rapids, is particularly scenic.
Air – Michigan has several airports, including Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, and Bishop International Airport in Flint. These airports provide access to other parts of the country and the world.
Overall, Michigan is easy to navigate by car or public transportation, and there are plenty of options to choose from depending on your needs and preferences.
Where to eat in Michigan
Michigan is home to a diverse culinary scene, offering a variety of delicious and unique dining options. Here are some of the best places to eat in Michigan:
Zingerman’s Deli – Located in Ann Arbor, Zingerman’s Deli is a must-visit for sandwich lovers. They serve up a variety of creative and delicious sandwiches, as well as soups, salads, and pastries.
Selden Standard – This Detroit restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect the freshest available ingredients.
The Cook’s House – Located in Traverse City, this restaurant serves up locally sourced and sustainable cuisine. The menu features creative and flavorful dishes that highlight the best of Michigan’s produce and seafood.
Slows Bar BQ – This Detroit restaurant is known for its slow-cooked barbecue and craft beers. The menu features a variety of smoked meats and classic sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
The Mitten Brewing Company – This Grand Rapids brewery and pizzeria offers a unique combination of craft beer and artisan pizza. The menu features creative pizzas like the “Vietnamese Pork” and “Bacon and Eggs.”
Cherry Republic – Located in Glen Arbor, Cherry Republic is a must-visit for cherry lovers. The store offers a variety of cherry-themed products, including jams, salsas, chocolates, and wine.
These are just a few of the many great dining options in Michigan. Whether you’re in the mood for barbecue, pizza, sandwiches, or something else entirely, Michigan has something to offer.
Famous street stalls in Michigan
Michigan is home to many delicious street food vendors serving up a variety of unique and tasty snacks. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Michigan:
Detroit-style pizza – While not technically a street stall, Detroit-style pizza is a must-try when visiting Michigan. This style of pizza is known for its thick, rectangular crust and toppings that go all the way to the edges. Some of the best places to try Detroit-style pizza include Buddy’s Pizza in Detroit and Loui’s Pizza in Hazel Park.
Hot dogs – Hot dogs are a classic street food in Michigan, and there are many vendors serving up delicious versions throughout the state. Lafayette Coney Island and American Coney Island, both located in Detroit, are two of the most famous hot dog vendors in Michigan.
Polish food – Michigan has a large Polish population, and there are many street stalls serving up traditional Polish cuisine. One popular option is Polish Village Cafe in Hamtramck, which serves up pierogies, kielbasa, and other Polish specialties.
Fish tacos – The Fish Tacos from Mariscos El Nayarit, located in Lansing, are a must-try when visiting Michigan. This popular street stall serves up fresh seafood tacos with a variety of toppings.
Ice cream – Michigan is known for its delicious ice cream, and there are many street stalls serving up scoops throughout the state. Moomers Homemade Ice Cream in Traverse City is a popular choice, offering a variety of unique flavors like Lavender Honey and Cherries Moobilee.
These are just a few of the famous street stalls in Michigan. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, hot dogs, or something else entirely, Michigan has something to satisfy your cravings.
Where to stay in Michigan
Luxury accommodation
Michigan has many luxurious accommodations to choose from. Here are some of the top options:
The Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island – This historic hotel has been welcoming guests since 1887 and offers luxurious amenities such as a full-service spa, multiple restaurants, and stunning views of Lake Huron.
The Townsend Hotel, Birmingham – Located in the upscale suburb of Birmingham, this hotel features elegant rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and a fitness center.
The Inn at Bay Harbor, Bay Harbor – This waterfront hotel offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and luxurious amenities such as a full-service spa and golf course.
Amway Grand Plaza, Grand Rapids – This historic hotel features elegant rooms, multiple restaurants, and a full-service spa.
Mission Point Resort, Mackinac Island – This resort offers a variety of accommodations, including rooms in the historic main building and private cottages. Guests can enjoy multiple restaurants, a full-service spa, and access to the island’s many outdoor activities.
These are just a few of the many luxurious accommodations available in Michigan. Whether you’re looking for a historic hotel or a modern resort, there are many options to choose from.
Where to stay in Michigan
Budget accommodation
Michigan offers many options for budget-friendly accommodations. Here are some of the top options:
Motel 6, various locations – With multiple locations throughout Michigan, Motel 6 offers affordable rates and basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV.
HI-USA Hostels, various locations – The HI-USA Hostels in Michigan offer affordable dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms and common areas. They are a great option for travelers on a budget who want to meet other travelers.
Super 8, various locations – Super 8 offers affordable rates and basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, and cable TV. They have multiple locations throughout Michigan.
Red Roof Inn, various locations – Red Roof Inn offers affordable rates and basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi and cable TV. They have multiple locations throughout Michigan.
Airbnb, various locations – Airbnb offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations throughout Michigan, including private rooms and entire apartments or houses.
These are just a few of the many budget-friendly accommodations available in Michigan. Whether you’re looking for a motel, hostel, or Airbnb, there are many options to choose from.
Travel Tips Michigan
Here are some travel tips for visiting Michigan:
Plan for the weather: Michigan has a variable climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm clothing and appropriate gear for outdoor activities depending on the season.
Explore the outdoors: Michigan is home to many beautiful outdoor destinations, including national parks, lakes, and forests. Be sure to take advantage of the many opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Try the local cuisine: Michigan is known for its delicious cuisine, including Coney dogs, pasties, and craft beer. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties during your trip.
Visit the cities: Michigan has many vibrant cities to explore, including Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor. Each city has its own unique character and attractions, from museums and galleries to restaurants and nightlife.
Take a road trip: Michigan is home to many scenic drives, including the famous M-22 route along Lake Michigan. Consider renting a car and exploring the state’s many beautiful landscapes and small towns.
Be aware of seasonal events: Michigan hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, the Mackinac Bridge Walk, and the Traverse City Cherry Festival. Check the calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
Consider visiting off-peak: Michigan is a popular destination in the summer, but can be crowded and expensive. Consider visiting in the spring or fall for smaller crowds and lower prices.
These are just a few travel tips for visiting Michigan. With its diverse attractions and beautiful landscapes, Michigan has something for everyone to enjoy.