Michigan Travel Guide: Discover the state’s most beautiful tourist stops

The state of Michigan offers attractions that excite people of diverse interests.

Nature lovers, history buffs, and family fun seekers can all enjoy these must-see places across the state.

While there is much more to see in the state, the following five spots are some of Michigan’s greatest natural attractions:

Before visiting, visitors will want to check the specific attraction’s hours of operation and any travel or reservation requirements.

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Mackinac Island offers residents and travelers alike a quintessential Michigan experience. Recognized as one of the top places to see in the state by US News & World Report, the island is located in Lake Huron and is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

The island is only accessible by ferry, as it follows a car-free policy.

Michigan touches four of the five Great Lakes: Huron, Michigan, Erie, and Superior. (Education Images/Universal Images Team)

Historically, the island served as an important economic and military site, with Fort Mackinac exemplifying its important past. The charming character of the island shines through the carriages and historic architecture.

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Activities for the whole family on the island include leisurely tours, shopping and dining. The island caters to all visitors, whether they are thinking of an overnight stay or a day trip. A trip here is completed by sampling the famous fudge for which Mackinac is famous.

Sleeping Bear Dunes captivates visitors with its prominent sand dunes on the shores of Lake Michigan. In 2011, it won the title of “Most Beautiful Place in America” ​​from “Good Morning America” ​​due to its incredible natural features. The park is considered a natural wonder because of its dunes, which rise 450 feet above the lake.

The lakefront offers a variety of activities including sandboarding, fishing, canoeing, swimming and boating in the summer and skiing in the winter, making it a versatile and exciting destination for all ages.

The state of Michigan is divided into two land masses – the Upper Peninsula and the Lower Peninsula. They connect to the Mackinac Bridge, which is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. (Temporary Files)

Travelers don’t even have to leave their vehicles to enjoy the destination. The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive spans 7.4 miles with 12 designated points that offer panoramic views of the dunes and lake, making the beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes accessible without ever leaving the car.

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Recognized as the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City is a popular travel destination for its crystal clear beaches, hiking trails and abundant water activities, all set against a backdrop of natural beauty. Despite its reputation as a top destination for weekend getaways in the Midwest, it retains a quaint, small-town charm. This city is a favorite destination for those who enjoy local wine and beer offerings and great culinary creations.

The cultural and arts scene is also a popular reason for tourism in Traverse City, with events like the Traverse City Film Festival and the National Cherry Festival drawing crowds from near and far. At the heart of the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsula wine trails, the town is ideally located for visitors looking to sample the region’s famous Rieslings and other cool-climate varietals with a beautiful vineyard setting.

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The historic downtown district offers an abundance of boutiques, cafes and farm-to-table restaurants, presenting visitors with retail and culinary offerings.

Mackinac Island, located in Lake Huron, is a unique no-motor vehicle spot. Transportation options include bicycles, horses, and foot. (Michael Siluk/UCG/Universal Images Group)

Tahquamenon Falls is home to one of Mississippi’s most spectacular waterfalls and is among the largest falls east of the Mississippi River. The park’s main attraction, the Upper Falls, features a dramatic 50-foot drop that spans over 200 feet in width. Meanwhile, Lower Falls includes five smaller waterfalls.

Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring the hiking trails, viewing local wildlife, and camping. Overnight visitors can camp inside the park or stay in nearby lodging.

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The park’s trails offer the opportunity to encounter wildlife such as black bears, coyotes, otters, deer, foxes, hedgehogs, beavers and various birds, Michigan.org notes.

There are many hiking trails throughout the park. The four-mile stretch connecting the Upper and Lower Falls is especially popular with hikers.

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Additionally, the park is dog-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their pets as long as they are on a leash and the leash is no longer than six feet.

Park access requires a day pass or annual state park pass. The ideal time to visit depends on individual preferences for activities. Winter offers opportunities for snowshoeing and fall offers vibrant, colorful foliage.

Outdoor enthusiasts can find a wide range of activities in Michigan, including fishing, boating, hiking and skiing.

Isle Royale National Park, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a short ferry ride away. The ferry route generally starts in Houghton or Copper Harbor, Michigan or Grand Portage, Minnesota.

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this remote island in Lake Superior offers an immersive nature experience perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life and adventure in the great outdoors.

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The island is known for predator-prey dynamics, particularly among the moose and wolf populations, which have been the focus of a long-term ecological study. The park is also home to other wildlife such as foxes, beavers, otters and various species of birds.

Visitors to the park will encounter a picturesque landscape that includes dense forests, commanding views and intricate waterways. With more than 165 miles of hiking trails, the island invites visitors for day hikes or extended backpacking trips, including the Greenstone Ridge Trail, which runs the length of the island.

Visitors must pay an entrance fee to access the park. Anyone planning to camp must secure a permit. The park is open every year from April 16th to October 31st.

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