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    Home » Recipes » Lifestyle

    Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots

    Published: May 30, 2018 · Modified: Jun 14, 2021 by Jeni · This post may contain affiliate links ·

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    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.

    I might be biased, but I think Michigan makes the perfect summer vacation destination. If you've never traveled to Michigan before, you might be wondering why should you visit this Midwest state.

    My guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots will show you that Michigan should be at the top of your bucket list.

    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.

    Discover the natural and diverse beauty of Michigan.

    Dip your toes into Lake Michigan, kayak in the largest great lake, go blueberry picking, or enjoy a glass of Michigan wine.

    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.

    Discover the natural and diverse beauty of Michigan. Dip your toes into Lake Michigan, kayak in the largest great lake, go blueberry picking, or enjoy a glass of Michigan wine.

    mackinac island

    It is no surprise that Mackinac Island was recently named the hottest summer destination spot by TripAdvisor.

    Mackinac Island is one of my favorite travel destinations.

    It is just so magical and charming. If you haven't had the chance to visit, now is the time to start planning your summer trip!

    Mackinac Island Travel TipsFerry ride over to Mackinac Island.

    Mackinac Island is an 8 mile long island located between the lower and upper peninsulas.

    A short ferry ride is the only way to get to the island.

    Mackinac Island Travel Tips #michigan #travelLots of great shops and restaurants on Mackinac Island.Biking around Mackinac Island is the best way to see the whole island! Bring your own bike or rent one and enjoy the breathtaking views! #michigan #travel #midwest

    read more: 5 awesome things to do on Mackinac Island.

    Mackinac Island Kayak Tour: a fun activity that is a must do on Mackinac Island! Great Turtle Kayak Tours do an amazing job! #mackinac #michigan

    Mackinac Island is also pet-friendly! Mission Point Resort offers dog-friendly accommodations!

    Mission Point Resort: A Dog-Friendly Oasis. The resort offers a Pooch at the Point Package for your dog!

    Read more: MISSION POINT RESORT: A PET-FRIENDLY OASIS

    Great Lawn located at Mission Point Resort in Mackinac Island

    pictured rocks

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan.

    Located in the Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks offers waterfalls, a gorgeous shoreline, miles of hiking trails, and beaches.

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan. Located in the Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks offers waterfalls, a gorgeous shoreline, miles of hiking trails, and beaches.

    The unique landscape and ecosystem can be explored by hiking, camping, and kayaking.

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan. Located in the Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks offers waterfalls, a gorgeous shoreline, miles of hiking trails, and beaches.Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan. Located in the Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks offers waterfalls, a gorgeous shoreline, miles of hiking trails, and beaches.Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan. Located in the Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks offers waterfalls, a gorgeous shoreline, miles of hiking trails, and beaches.
    If you aren't feeling very adventurous, I highly recommend taking one of the Pictured Rock Cruises. This is a great way for the whole family to experience Pictured Rocks.

    Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan. Located in the Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks offers waterfalls, a gorgeous shoreline, miles of hiking trails, and beaches.Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan. Located in the Upper Peninsula, Pictured Rocks offers waterfalls, a gorgeous shoreline, miles of hiking trails, and beaches.

    grand rapids

    Of course I had to include my own city on this list. I may be biased but I think Grand Rapids is a great place to visit, especially in the summer.

    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.
    If you are a craft beer enthusiast, you are in luck. Grand Rapids, also known as Beer City USA, is home to some incredible breweries.

    Some of my favorites include: Founders, Brewery Vivant, Jolly Pumpkin, and The Mitten. I highly recommend going to The Mitten Brewing Company for a beer and their famous pizza flight.

    Vegan Pizza at the Mitten Brewing Co. located in Grand Rapids, MI.A Craft Beer and Vegan Food Guide to Grand Rapids, Michigan guide.
This guide will tell you where to find all the best vegan food & craft beer in Grand Rapids.

    Read more: Craft Beer and Vegan Food Guide to Grand Rapids, Michigan

    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.
    Grand Rapids is also known for art. Exploring Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is the perfect way to spend a summer day. 

    The whole family will love exploring the indoor and outdoor gardens and sculpture galleries.

    You'll also find public art throughout the city. Be sure to check out the new iconic LOVE sculpture by Robert Indiana. You'll find the iconic sculpture located on Louis Campau Promenade in downtown Grand Rapids.

    Love by Robert Indiana located in downtown Grand Rapids.

    saugatuck

    Saugatuck, Michigan is located along the shores of Lake Michigan. Saugatuck is a well known artsy beach town that has something for everyone.

    Whether you like shopping, admiring a vibrant art scene or spending the day at the beach, you’ll love the charming quaintness of this West Michigan beach town.

    A travel guide on what to see, do and eat in Saugutuck, Michigan. Saugatuck, Michigan is located along the shores of Lake Michigan. Saugatuck is a well known artsy beach town that has something for everyone. Whether you like shopping, admiring a vibrant art scene or spending the day at the beach, you'll love the charming quaintness of this West Michigan beach town.
    Saugatuck is a charming place for a summer weekend getaway. Saugatuck is a well known artsy beach town that has something for everyone.
    Saugatuck is a well known artsy beach town that has something for everyone.

    read more: SAUGATUCK, MICHIGAN DAY TRIP: WHAT TO SEE, DO AND EAT

    holland

    Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, discover the charming town of Holland. From white sandy beaches, small-town charm, to hiking the trails and picking your own fruit, Holland offers something for the whole family.

    Lake Michigan is great for swimming, boating, and paddling.  Spend the day at one of the five public Lake Michigan beaches in Holland.

    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.
    If you happen to  be visiting during blueberry season, head to one of Holland's u-pick blueberry farms. Picking blueberries is one of my favorite summer activities. If you don't feel like picking yourself, many of the farms sell already picked blueberries.

    Blueberry picking in Holland, Michigan
    Picking blueberries in Holland, Michigan

    ludington

    From outdoor adventures, family fun, to a relaxing romantic getaway, Ludington offers something for everyone.

    Ludington, Michigan Winter Getaway: What to See, Do and Eat: a travel guide on what to see, do and eat in Ludington, Michigan during the winter.  #michigan #travel #ludington
    Explore 18 miles of trails at the Ludington State Park. Enjoy a hike on one of the eight marked trails. You'll find the Big Sable Point Lighthouse, a favorite hiking destination in the park.

    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.
    Grab a drink at one of Ludington's craft breweries.

    Ludington, Michigan Winter Getaway: What to See, Do and Eat: a travel guide on what to see, do and eat in Ludington, Michigan during the winter. 

    read more: 3 Must-Visit Craft Breweries in Ludington, Michigan

    pentwater

    Located on the white sandy fresh water shores of Western Michigan, you'll find the charming town of Pentwater.  You'll find one of the most beautiful State Park public beaches in Pentwater.

    This is the most popular reason to visit during the warm summer months. You'll love the white sandy beach, sand dunes, and fresh water.

    Located on the white sandy fresh water shores of Western Michigan, you'll find the charming town of Pentwater. Located on the white sandy fresh water shores of Western Michigan, you'll find the charming town of Pentwater. 
    Watching the sunset on the beach is the best part about summer in Michigan.

    Located on the white sandy fresh water shores of Western Michigan, you'll find the charming town of Pentwater. Located on the white sandy fresh water shores of Western Michigan, you'll find the charming town of Pentwater. 

    greenfield village

    Located in Dearborn, Greenfield Village is the perfect place to spend a summer day. Throughout the season, you'll find different events. My absolute favorite summer activity is to attend Salute to America.

    Listen to the Detroit Sympony Orchestra play while you enjoy a picnic with family and friends. It is the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July.

     Listen to the Detroit Sympony Orchestra play while you enjoy a picnic with family and friends. It is the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July.
     Listen to the Detroit Sympony Orchestra play while you enjoy a picnic with family and friends. It is the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July. Listen to the Detroit Sympony Orchestra play while you enjoy a picnic with family and friends. It is the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July. Listen to the Detroit Sympony Orchestra play while you enjoy a picnic with family and friends. It is the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July.

    grand haven

    Known as Coast Guard City, U.S.A., Grand Haven is a favorite summer travel destination to visit. You’ll find a wide range of fun activities to do.


    Soak up the sunshine and enjoy a beach day at the Grand Haven State Park. The park offers a sandy beach and views of the iconic pier and lighthouse.

    A guide on the best things to do in Grand Haven, Michigan. #Michigan #travel
    Watching the sunset along the pier is the perfect way to end your day in Grand Haven.

    Watching the sunset along the pier is the perfect way to end your day in Grand Haven.

    Read more: things to do in Grand Haven, Michigan.

    traverse city

    And of course, I had to include one of my favorite places, Traverse City. Even though I have talked about Traverse City quite a few times on the blog, I still wanted to include it on my guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots.

    Ice wine is often called the "Nectar of the Gods." With one taste, you'll see why it gets that name. #wine #traversecity
    Traverse City is a beautiful place to visit, especially in the summer. Explore the beaches, hike the sand dune, or enjoy a glass of wine at one of wineries.

    Hiking the Empire Bluff Trail at Sleeping Beat Dunes

    Read more: Top things to do in Traverse City. 

    I hope that this guide has inspired you to put Michigan on your Summer travel bucket list! There are so many other great ideas of the state to explore too!

    Happy Travels! Jeni

    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots. Discover the natural and diverse beauty of Michigan. Dip your toes into Lake Michigan, kayak in the largest great lake, go blueberry picking, or enjoy a glass of Michigan wine. #Michigan #summer #travel #Midwest #PureMichigan #Beach #getaway #Lake #Beer #nature #kayaking #mackinac #picturedrocks #holland #saugatuck
    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots. Discover the natural and diverse beauty of Michigan. Dip your toes into Lake Michigan, kayak in the largest great lake, go blueberry picking, or enjoy a glass of Michigan wine. #Michigan #summer #travel #Midwest #PureMichigan #Beach #getaway #Lake #Beer #nature #kayaking #mackinac #picturedrocks #holland #saugatuck #grandrapids

    A guide to the Best Michigan Summer Vacation Spots. Discover the natural and diverse beauty of Michigan. Dip your toes into Lake Michigan, kayak in the largest great lake, go blueberry picking, or enjoy a glass of Michigan wine. #Michigan #summer #travel #Midwest #PureMichigan #Beach #getaway #Lake #Beer #nature #kayaking #mackinac #picturedrocks #holland #saugatuck

     

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Janet

      June 13, 2018 at 1:54 am

      WOW what a great roundup post on Michigan. i want to visit every spot! NICE photos too.

      Reply
    2. Kim

      June 13, 2018 at 3:04 pm

      Pinning this one! I've got a road trip through Michigan coming up and you mention quite a few of my stops. Can't wait!

      Reply
    3. Kelly Ratcliff

      June 13, 2018 at 8:31 pm

      oh my gosh- all these pictures make us want to hop in the car and drive straight to Michigan!

      Reply
    4. Cheryl @ O the Places We Go

      June 17, 2018 at 2:16 pm

      Michigan is one of my favs! Love all these suggestions.

      Reply
    5. Vicki

      June 18, 2018 at 1:25 am

      I'm saving this for a future road trip! It's hard to believe we live so close (in Wisconsin), and haven't visited most of these! Looks like I'm starting to plan next summer's trips! Thanks-

      Reply
    6. Lindsay @ Let Me Give You Some Advice

      June 18, 2018 at 6:09 pm

      What a great list! Makes me wish I had every weekend free for the summer (and a private plane to get me to all these places quickly!) There's nothing better than a Michigan summer!

      Reply
    7. Kristin

      June 26, 2018 at 5:10 pm

      great photos! i need to get out to pictured rocks, it looks so beautiful there.

      Reply
    8. Cadry

      June 29, 2018 at 4:34 am

      Wow, I can tell from your pictures that Michigan really is stunning! Other than layovers in Detroit and a trip to Ann Arbor when I was in 6th grade, I haven't spent any time in Michigan. I noticed that Detroit was named one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the country. Any thoughts on it?

      Reply
      • Jeni

        July 09, 2018 at 11:37 am

        I need to make a trip out to Detroit! There are so many vegan restaurants to visit in the city. There are also some amazing restaurants outside the city. Michigan is a beautiful state and definitely worth a visit!

        Reply
    9. Vickie

      January 12, 2019 at 8:30 pm

      I am visiting Michigan for the first time. I want to spend 4 days each in two different locations. I was thinking Munising and Traverse City. Thoughts?

      Reply
      • Jeni

        January 13, 2019 at 4:29 pm

        Both of those are great locations for your first visit to Michigan! Traverse City is one of my favorite places to visit. You'll have a very scenic drive from Traverse City to Munising. Pictured Rocks in Musing is a great spot of visit during the summer. I highly recommend doing the Pictured Rocks Cruise. It is a great way to see them. And if you are into hiking, definitely plan on doing so hiking! I think that 4 days in both locations will allow you to see what each place has to offer! If you have any specific questions, feel free to send me an email at [email protected].

        Reply
    10. Natalie

      July 02, 2019 at 2:23 pm

      I am planning a long weekend trip to Michigan with my boyfriend for the end of July. We want to get as much as a Tropical beach experience we can in Michigan. What do you recommend? I want to add we are not yet 21.

      Reply

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    Hi, I'm Jeni—the food blogger, recipe developer, and photographer behind Thyme & Love. I'm a busy mom would loves creating memories in the kitchen and traveling to new places.

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