Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Michigan. #Top Attractions

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Get a glimpse of the marvels of Michigan. Check out our curated list of the best things to do in Michigan and the best places to visit in Michigan below. As a Web 3.0 travel startup, Wondrous Drifter aspires to make a huge impact on the world.

Welcome to Michigan, a state so close to Canada that it’s impossible to tell the difference.

In Michigan, the 5th-most affordable state in the US, you may indulge in the most basic pleasures without breaking the bank. By area, it is the 11th-largest state in the United States; it boasts a variety of intriguing activities, events, festivals, beautiful landscapes, and spectacular natural wonders.

Michigan is an excellent destination for a relaxing Midwestern getaway. Moreover, there are many activities to choose from throughout the year, regardless of the season.

Michigan is a fascinating place to visit, with everything from the majestic dunes on the state’s western coastlines to the metropolitan outskirts of Detroit. The sights and experiences of each site are distinct, and they change with the seasons as well.

Traverse City is a great place to go sledding in the winter, and the Upper Peninsula is a frozen wonderland. Ann Arbor and Grand Rapids come to life in the spring when the city’s cobblestone streets are lined with cafes and restaurants offering outside patio eating.

Summertime in Michigan means visiting Mackinac Island for a retro vacation and cooling off in Lake Michigan’s crystal clear waters. Take a picturesque drive through Upper Michigan in fall to catch a glimpse of autumn’s shifting colors.

From scenic to romantic to exciting, the state has a wide variety of options for travelers. Discover the top places to go in Michigan with our comprehensive guide. Michigan has a lot to offer.

DeYoung Natural Area

DeYoung Natural Area, Michigan
DeYoung Natural Area is one of the best places to go in Michigan

Michigan has a lot to offer history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. It’s possible to blend the finest of both worlds, from long-standing lighthouses to abandoned buildings in the woods.

One of Michigan’s best-kept secrets is a farmstead route that provides tourists an insight into the local agricultural history and spectacular natural scenery. What a pity you didn’t see this lovely place sooner.

Beautiful Traverse City, Michigan, is home to the DeYoung Natural Area.

It’s safe to say that DeYoung Natural Area should be on your list of potential picnic spots. There is something for everyone in this 191-acre utopia.

This delightful circle hike offers stunning views of the farmstead and pleasant vistas of tranquil streams and pastures. Consider bringing your camera along just in case.

Don’t forget to include this historic farmstead loop and the surrounding natural environment on your bucket list of things to do while in the Great Lakes State. This place will quickly win you over.

Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island, Michigan / Mary McGuire | Mackinac / Flickr

Visiting a small resort town for the weekend and wondering what it’s like to live there is a common occurrence? Over the years, we’ve had the good fortune to live in many of the most famous and unusual resort communities in the United States.

However, no matter how hard we try, we’ve never been able to find a vacation destination where cars are prohibited. In this Michigan town, you can witness life without a car.

With a year-round population of over 600, Mackinac Island is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Located on the shores of Lake Huron, this is an excellent destination for those who just need a break from the commotion of daily life.

Take a break from your daily routine and explore some of Mackinac Island’s best sights and attractions.

There’s no denying that Mackinac Island is one of the most gorgeous spots in Michigan.

Beautiful hiking routes and horse-drawn carriages are waiting for you when you arrive on land.

Visiting Mackinac Island can be an exhilarating experience that will take you back in time.

Michigan’s Mackinac Island has long been a popular tourist destination.

Planning a road trip for your vacation in the United States? Consider visiting the tourist attractions in Central USA here at things to do in Central USA. Have fun exploring all 50 states.

Holland City

Holland City, Michigan
Holland City, Michigan / Amarnath / Flickr

Got your passport stolen or misplaced? Don’t have the funds to travel across the country or over the world? Relax: A city in Michigan makes you feel like you just stepped off a plane to New Zealand.

Knowing that there is a Holland, Michigan might conjure up ideas of the Netherlands, and you wouldn’t be far wrong.

Known initially as Amsterdam, this city was created by Dutch immigrants.

Even though it isn’t one of the most populated cities in Michigan, it nevertheless has a lot to offer and good sightseeing options.

Attending a concert by the Holland Symphony Orchestra or the Kruizenga Art Museum are two excellent ways to soak up the city’s culture.

There are various beaches in Holland where you may have a relaxing day at the shore.

Water sports on Lake Michigan are also an option.

A visit to Holland, Michigan, reveals the importance of the cultural contributions made by numerous early settlers to the formation of modern-day America.

If you’re looking to see some lesser-known parts of Michigan, this is a great location to stop.

Traveling to Michigan? Get the most out of Michigan with our carefully curated travel guides. Visit the best things to do in Grand Rapids and the best things to do in Ann Arbor in Michigan!

Gaylord Town

Gaylord Town, Michigan
Gaylord Town is one of the best places to go in Michigan

Who says traveling to Europe requires hundreds of dollars in plane tickets? However, those who live in Michigan can take advantage of the many European-inspired towns that have sprung up around the state. One of them is the Gaylord Town.

Visitors to one such location can get a taste of Swiss culture and charm without having to leave the state of Michigan. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, visit Michigan’s Little Switzerland.

Gaylord has a population of little over 4,000 full-time residents, yet it delivers a powerful punch. The lovely history of the town is a huge draw for both tourists and residents.

Gaylord, Michigan, is renowned as an “alpine village” throughout the state, so you’ll see a lot of chalet-style architecture and Swiss-inspired elements in the city. It’s much more magical in the winter.

It’s not just the building that bears a Swiss influence. One of the city’s most popular cultural events is Alpenfest, each year in honor of Pontresina, Switzerland’s sister city.

The streets of Gaylord come alive with Swiss culture during this annual celebration in the summer. There is a lot to enjoy in traditions like burning the Boogg, a figure depicting the trials and difficulties of life.

Whether you come to Gaylord for a quiet weekend in the dead of winter or for the annual Alpenfest, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with the town’s inexhaustible Swiss beauty.

If you are going on a road trip to Michigan, check out our travel guides on the best things to do in Kalamazoo and the best things to do in Traverse City. Make your Michigan vacation an unforgettable one!

Ready Player One Arcade

Ready Player One Arcade, Michigan
Ready Player One Arcade is one of the best places to go in Michigan

Did you know that you can travel back in time to Detroit with only a few tokens? Yes, you read that right! Arcade games from the 1980s and 1990s can be found at Ready Player One, an arcade bar filled with retro games. The atmosphere and cocktails at this establishment are a win-win for visitors.

A hidden gem in the center of Detroit, the Globe Tobacco Building’s basement is home to the arcade. One of the best-kept secrets in the city.

You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you walk through the door. I’m sure you’ll see some games you haven’t played in years. As you remember, they’re still a blast.

Many tasty drinks are available at the bar. You don’t have to settle for a juice box like you did as a youngster — they have enhanced drink pouches that can keep you going for hours. Purple Power Punch, Mango Sunrise, and Sonic Blue are just a few flavors you can choose from.

Those who enjoy playing pinball in movies will find enough to enjoy in Ready Player One. Many enticing solutions are available. What you need are a cup of joe and a few tokens.

Stafford’s Pier Restaurant

Stafford's Pier Restaurant, Michigan
Stafford’s Pier Restaurant is one of the best places to go in Michigan

An excellent dinner shared with loved ones is always special, but taking in the scenery while dining is genuinely memorable. Michigan has the good fortune to be surrounded by some of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders and picturesque vistas, whether looking out over a Great Lake or taking in the beauty of a forested landscape.

If you’re ever in Michigan, there’s a lovely restaurant where you can eat delicious meals while taking in breathtaking views.

On East Bay Street in Harbor Springs, you’ll find Stafford’s Pier Restaurant.

As a gateway to the gorgeous Little Traverse Bay entrance on Lake Michigan’s western shore, Harbor Springs is a favorite vacation spot for locals and visitors alike.

You can enjoy the area’s landscape while tucking into a delicious meal at Stafford’s Pier Restaurant. One of the area’s oldest and most recognizable landmarks dates back to the pre-Prohibition era.

Enjoy your meals while taking in the view of the nearby yacht basin, where you can see boats making their way into Lake Michigan from the marina. In every season, there is a bounty of nature’s splendor.

For a truly memorable dining experience, visit Stafford’s Pier Restaurant in Harbor Springs, Michigan. No matter how often you return, there’s always something new to discover.

Address: 102 E Bay St, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, United States

When you make travel plans to visit Michigan, you cannot miss out on Detroit! Check out our travel guide on the best things to do in Detroit in Michigan!

Montrose Historical and Telephone Pioneer Museum

Montrose Historical and Telephone Pioneer Museum, Michigan
Montrose Historical and Telephone Pioneer Museum is one of the best places to go in Michigan

Setting foot inside a quirky and educational museum is always a blast, whether or not you’re a history lover in the traditional sense. Usually, when we think of museums, we think of high-priced artwork or spectacular fossils, but one museum in the Great Lakes State stands out in the most wonderful way possible. If you’re looking for a fun family excursion in Michigan, check out the entertaining telephone museum.

Small-town Montrose is home to the historical and telephone pioneer museum.

With loved ones in mind, this unique museum should be on your list of must-see attractions. By the time you leave here, you’ll be brimming with a wealth of new information.

The museum has a low-key appearance on the outside, so it might not capture your attention. A truly remarkable collection of telephones and phone accessories from all eras may be found inside.

You’ll witness phones dating back to the late 1800s in the on-site exhibitions when telephone technology was still in its infancy. Even the most up-to-date landlines will be impressive to younger guests.

Visit the Montrose Historical and Telephone Pioneer Museum the next time you’re searching for a unique family outing. This breathtaking location is calling you to come and explore it.

Address: 144 Hickory St, Montrose, MI 48457, United States

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan / Kate Ter Haar/ Flickr

The indescribably beautiful landscape may be seen on every mile of Lake Superior’s beaches. For those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, this is the place to go. Land of lakes, forests, and shores that allow you to see many different ecosystems may be found in this area.

Campers, hikers, and tourists will enjoy their time at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

As a geology lover, you’ll like witnessing how iron, manganese, and copper contribute color and vitality to the earth, even via inanimate objects.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a far-flung destination in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, but it is well worth the extra work it takes to get there.

The park, as a whole, has 42 miles of coastline, but the cliffs are the real draw here.

In addition to these painted cliffs, the shoreline also offers spectacular arches, caverns, and exciting formations famous for exploring by boat or kayak during the summer and on foot during the winter.

In addition to these painted cliffs, the shoreline also offers spectacular arches, caverns, and exciting formations famous for exploring by boat or kayak during the summer and on foot during the winter.

It’s an excellent place for folks who want to sit back and enjoy the landscape rather than engage in physical activity.

Aunt Candy’s Toy Company

Aunt Candy's Toy Company, Michigan
Aunt Candy’s Toy Company is one of the best places to go in Michigan

If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing, look no further. Whether you’re eight or eighty, there’s nothing better than walking into a bright toy store. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the Great Lakes State is a place that attracts visitors of all ages. This excellent toy store in Michigan has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a souvenir, a gift, or a specific item.

Rockford, a suburb of Grand Rapids, is home to one of the finest candy stores – Aunt Candy’s Toy Company.

Whether you’re strolling through the neighborhood or driving by, you can’t help but notice this prominent business. On the other hand, Aunt Candy has a bright yellow exterior that will entice you.

You’ll instantly revert to your childhood self as soon as you step foot on the premises. Aunt Candy’s is stocked to the gills with amusing knickknacks that appeal to people of all ages, interests, and socioeconomic backgrounds.

Not only that, but everyone at Aunt Candy’s is warm and accommodating. It’s simple to see why this shop places so much emphasis on fostering a sense of community.

If you’re looking for new places to shop in Michigan, don’t forget to check out this fantastic toy store. At Aunt Candy’s, there’s a lot of fun to be enjoyed around every corner.

Address: 63 Courtland St, Rockford, MI 49341, United States

Jump Station

Jump Station, Michigan
Jump Station is one of the best places to go in Michigan

Looking for a place to bounce your worries away? Look no further!

Mt. Pleasant’s Jump Station can be found at 2422 E Broomfield Rd.

If you’re looking for a unique way to spend a day, go no further than this indoor trampoline and inflatable park. Everyone in the family will enjoy themselves here.

No matter what day of the week it is, you can visit the Jump Station.

Try your hand at dodgeball with the family in the freestyle section, or get some huge air by jumping into a foam pit. Even toddlers and children under the age of 12 are welcome to join in on the fun.

Concessions are available at the Jump Station to keep visitors fueled up during their time there. A great choice for parties and other events, as well.

Head to the Jump Station if you’re looking for a way to let off some steam while having fun with friends and family. As though you’ve been transported back in time to when you were 7 years old.

Belleville’s DeBuck’s Sunflower Farm

Belleville's DeBuck's Sunflower Farm, Michigan
Belleville’s DeBuck’s Sunflower Farm is one of the best places to go in Michigan

Immersing oneself in a field of brightly colored sunflowers is truly one magical experience. The brightly colored flowers, which bloom throughout the summer and early fall, are almost impossible not to grin at. In the Great Lakes State, there’s a little family farm where you may stop for pictures, buy a flower, and have a memorable day outside.

Belleville’s DeBuck’s Sunflower Farm can be found at 50240 Martz Rd.

You won’t be able to get enough of this stunning location. Regardless of how many times you come, there’s always something new to be amazed by here.

This family-run location has more than 14 acres of sunflowers for visitors to enjoy. While at DeBuck’s, it’s easy to get lost in a fantasy world.

Numerous more seasonal blooms can be seen among the farms of more than two-dozen sunflower types. When you visit, don’t forget to bring your camera; the view is breathtaking.

Take a trip to DeBuck’s Farm for the Sunflower Spectacular, where 10 football fields’ worth of sunflowers await you. It’s possible you won’t want to leave.

Stone Bridge Nature Trail

Stone Bridge Nature Trail, Connecticut
Stone Bridge Nature Trail, Connecticut / James St. John / Flickr

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life by visiting a Michigan park. The Great Lakes State has a wide variety of hiking trails to select from, ranging from paved paths to rocky trails in the Upper Peninsula.

In a single route, you’ll find a spectacular mix of whimsicality and natural splendor. Go on a hike to Michigan’s charming bridge to nowhere if you’re up for something new.

Located in Detroit’s Rouge Park, the Stone Bridge Nature Trail is accessible through Joy Road.

The Stone Bridge Nature Trail is just.7 miles long, but it’s a gorgeous circle that’s excellent for a leisurely stroll through the park’s 1,181 acres of flora and footpaths.

You can take the whole family out for a walk on the beginner-friendly trail without worrying about overworking the kids. Regardless of the time of year, this area never ceases to awe and delight visitors.

You’ll emerge from Stone Bridge Nature Trail with a unique combination of tranquility and renewal in your soul. Does it get much more surreal than this after you’ve just walked across Michigan’s Bridge to Nowhere?

Hancock’s Peterson’s Fish Market

Hancocks's Peterson's Fish Market, Michigan
Hancocks’s Peterson’s Fish Market is one of the best places to go in Michigan

If you enjoy the flavor of well-prepared fish, Michigan is a great place to visit. The fact that our state is located right next to the Great Lakes makes us an ideal place for scrumptious seafood and all of its accompanying delicacies.

You’ll get the freshest and most flavorful seafood in Michigan at this seafood restaurant. You’ll be able to catch and eat fish right from the water.

Hancock’s Peterson’s Fish Market may be found off US-41 in the nearby town of Peterson.

For those who find themselves wandering throughout the Upper Peninsula, this seafood hotspot is a must-stop. There is no better location to get fresh, delicious fish than Peterson’s.

Customers may feel good about supporting a local business because the market and its related take-out restaurant are owned by the same family. Since 1992, the Petersons have owned and operated their lovely market in the heart of the city.

They only use fish that have been caught and transported directly from the lake. Whether you’re looking for smoked or fresh-caught alternatives, there’s something for everyone here.

Visit Peterson’s Fish Market the next time you’re in the Upper Peninsula in quest of some of the finest seafood you’ve ever had. You’ll be glad you made the trip.

Address: Franklin Mine, MI 49930, United States

The Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel, Michigan
The Grand Hotel is one of the best places to go in Michigan

If you enjoy history and travel, chances are you’ve already seen some of the state’s most famous landmarks. Moreover, our region is home to a wide variety of historical attractions that attract visitors of all ages, from long-standing restaurants to fascinating museums to educational parks and more.

For a truly memorable lodging option, one well-known and historic hotel in Michigan should definitely be on your visit itinerary.

Grand Avenue, Mackinac Island’s main thoroughfare, is where the Grand Hotel is located.

A trip to this undervalued vacation spot with the whole family is sure to be memorable, whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning frequently. The TreeHouse, after all, acts as both an indoor play area and a dining establishment.

It is impossible to leave without checking out the on-site playground, which covers an impressive 9,000 square feet. Even adults can join in the fun, as long as they don’t mind getting their hands dirty.

Plan a trip to Chelsea TreeHouse and Restaurant with your family if you’re looking for a fun way to burn off some steam. There’s always something new to discover around every bend.

Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix

Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix, Michigan
Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix, Michigan / Deb Nystrom / Flickr

If you’ve ever wanted to visit the fictional town of Hobbiton, you don’t even have to leave the country. The lovely hamlet of Charlevoix, Michigan, has its own collection of mushroom cottages that transport you immediately to Middle Earth. 

Whether you’ve always dreamed of visiting a real-life Middle Earth or simply enjoying the comforts of a quiet retreat, this Michigan hobbit house is sure to make you happy. When planning your next holiday in the state, consider this quaint and unique rental on your list of possibilities.

If you’ve ever been to Charlevoix, you may have seen Earl Young’s architectural designs. Young’s so-called “Mushroom Houses” may be found all over the region, and they’re a lovely sight.

Each of the houses is full of eccentricity and levity, but one, in particular, will transport you to the world of the hobbit. Half House is the affectionate moniker given to it.

All of Charlevoix’s best attractions are just a short walk away, from the beach to the shops and restaurants. Instantly enamored while renting with VRBO.

Remember to put this wonderful Great Lakes Statehouse at the top of your list the next time you find yourself thinking about a truly spectacular trip! 

Address: 304 Park Ave, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States

Enchanted Treehouse

Enchanted Treehouse, Michigan
Enchanted Treehouse is one of the best places to go in Michigan

You want to get away from it all, but you don’t know where to go? The Great Lakes State has much to offer everyone, from the habitual tourist to the more casual adventurer. One of Michigan’s most enchanting treehouses allows visitors to relax in awe of the state’s natural beauty while savoring the state’s shoreline. Take a seat and get ready for the ride of your life.

Between Holland and Grand Haven, you’ll find the Enchanted Treehouse, a vacation rental.

You’ll fall in love with this destination when you’re ready for a vacation full of natural splendor, quality time with your loved ones, and peace and quiet like no other. Get ready to really unwind.

The Enchanted Treehouse is nestled in a densely wooded area that provides shade and tranquility throughout the year. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a new universe when you book a stay here.

In addition to its idyllic setting among the trees, this one-of-a-kind edifice is conveniently located near Lake Michigan. Located on top of a dune, the house is ideal for beachgoers.

In need of a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a weekend with your friends, this stunning treehouse in Michigan is the perfect place to stay.

Address: West Olive, MI 49460, USA

Cafe 1923

Cafe 1923, Michigan
Cafe 1923 is one of the best places to go in Michigan

In Michigan, you’ll find a slew of charming little hangouts, each with its personality and style. Here in the Great Lakes State, one unique cafe serves up classic cafe fare in a library-like setting for bookworms. Once you enter, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

It is impossible to top the experience you will have at this hidden gem in the heart of the community. Even if you’re a seasoned traveler, you’ll find a lot to enjoy here.

With its bright and inviting atmosphere, this place will be the perfect place to meet with friends, study, or relax outside the house. In this establishment, you won’t find your average cup of joe.

A library in the cafe is a big draw for customers. Just like the coffee shop, there are cozy seating areas and shelves filled with an eclectic selection of books to peruse.

The on-site library at Cafe 1923 in the Great Lakes State should be on your list of must-see attractions when planning your next visit. Coffee lovers and voracious readers will both adore this location.

Address: 2287 Holbrook Ave, Hamtramck, MI 48212, United States

Jackson Antique and Flea Market Show

Jackson Antique and Flee Market Show, Michigan
Jackson Antique and Flee Market Show is one of the best places to go in Michigan

Ready to shop ’til you drop? If you go to a lively flea market, you don’t have to be looking for a specific item, but you must be prepared to have a good time while searching. You can find a variety of antique exhibits and flea markets throughout Michigan, but one particular location is sure to become a new favorite. Treasure-hunting is a great way to spend a day with some of your most enthusiastic friends.

The following Jackson Antique and Flea Market Show will be held in Keeley Park in Jackson on October 1-2, 2021. The date is still TBD. Located on West Ganson Street, the Jackson Fairgrounds are also known as the Jackson Fairgrounds.

This is a dream come true for those who enjoy hunting for discounts, collectibles, and old items. Shoppers from all around Michigan come to see the event.

More than two decades in business is nothing out of the ordinary for this Jackson treasure. Antiques, vintage apparel, and home furnishings are all available here in various price ranges.

Consider including a visit to the Jackson Antique and Flea Market Show in your fall itinerary in Michigan’s Great Lakes State. The next occasion will be a distant memory when you’ve finished buying.

Riverside Arena

Riverside Arena , Michigan
Riverside Arena , Michigan / Ed Webster / Flickr

Do you remember going to the roller rink as a child? For many Michiganders, roller skating previously offered the ideal balance between physical activity, social interaction, and discovery beyond the house’s four walls. There’s an 80-year-old roller rink in the Great Lakes State that’s worth adding to your bucket list when you’re looking for a dose of nostalgia.

At 36635 Plymouth Rd in Livonia, the Riverside Arena is situated.

When you’re searching for an animated adventure that takes you back in time, go no further than this 1940s-style jewel. For so long, this spot has been a popular one.

Riverside Arena has the most lovely sense of being frozen in time. If you were a frequent visitor here in the past, it would be as if you’ve stepped back in time.

The arena’s interior is a riot of color and vibrancy, perfectly reflecting the venue’s infectious joy. Whatever your level of skating experience, the smooth wooden surface of the rink is welcoming.

When it comes to Riverside Arena, its timeless allure is undiminished. Check out this long-standing spot when planning your next getaway in the state of Michigan.

Is there anything else holding you back from making Michigan your next vacation destination? Visit why visit Michigan at least once in your lifetime here.

Address: 36635 Plymouth Rd, Livonia, MI 48150, United States

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