Best Sightseeing in Michigan
If you’re wondering about the best sightseeing in Michigan, you’ve come to the right place. Here you’ll find tips on how to plan your Michigan vacation, from Frankenmuth to Grand Rapids, from Mackinac Island to the Grand River Heritage Trail. And don’t miss a visit to the University of Michigan, where you can see an array of works of art. For something a little bit different, you can check out the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and Grand Rapids Zoo.
Frankenmuth
If you are looking for the best places to see and explore while in Michigan, consider visiting Frankenmuth. The Frankenmuth Architectural Museum highlights the German roots of the area, while the Military and Space Heroes Museum displays medals, flight gear, and military equipment. Frankenmuth Heritage Park has event pavilions and zip lines. The city is also home to Frankenmuth Aerial Park. While visiting Frankenmuth, you should try zip lining if you’re feeling adventurous.
Another place to go for sightseeing in Frankenmuth is the Bavarian Belle Riverboat, which is operated by the royal family and features tours of the town. You can board this riverboat for a one-hour tour that showcases the city’s history and culture. You can also rent the boat for private events. In addition to enjoying the sights and sounds of Frankenmuth, you can try some of the local cuisines, including fried chicken and pork.
The German Christmas bells can be heard for miles, and they’re quite pretty. The bells were imported from Germany, and are located in Buena Vista Township. Visit the town’s farmers’ market for traditional German food and holiday cheer. At the end of the day, you’ll be able to sample the local cuisine and drink in a cozy atmosphere. You’ll be glad you did! Make sure to eat something special while you’re here!
The Frankenmuth Winery has long been a popular destination for tourists in the area. The town has several locations across Michigan, and the Frankenmuth branch has a beautiful tasting room and shop. If you’re interested in trying out the local wines, you can take a tour of the winery’s facilities. This is the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine and sample a variety of local wines.
Grand Rapids
For foodies, there are a number of options for the best sightseeing in Grand Rapids, Michigan. At the Downtown Market, you can sample authentic Detroit barbecue, Vietnamese cuisine, and more. You can also savor catch-of-the-day dishes at a fish market. It’s all free, and there are over 200 venues in the area. For art lovers, there’s also the Meijer Sculpture Park, where you can see Chihuly sculptures and enjoy special holiday events.
The Grand Rapids Art Museum is another great place to see a variety of art forms. The museum is located in a beautiful LEED Gold-certified building and contains over 6,000 pieces of artwork. The galleries are divided into two main categories: permanent and temporary exhibits. You can also visit the museum’s impressive library and archive. If you’re a fan of modern art, you should definitely visit the museum.
A great way to get around the city is by public transportation. The city’s public transportation, known as “The Rapid,” has routes throughout the city. Its buses are clean, reliable, and have an easy-to-understand map. All stops are clearly marked and have routes and operating hours. You can also check the online bus schedule to plan your trip. There are a variety of routes and options, so it’s not hard to find the best option for you.
Founders Brewing is another place to enjoy the local craft beer scene. The brewery has an extensive lineup of brews, including their signature Nitro draft series and barrel-aged KBS flavored stout. The brewery also offers seasonal offerings, occasionally limited releases, and even a limited release. If you want to experience Michigan’s largest city without sacrificing its charm, Grand Rapids is an ideal place to visit.
Grand River Heritage Trail
If you’re looking for the best sightseeing in Michigan, then you’ve come to the right place. This unique heritage route includes both large and small cities. From charming small towns to modern urban centers, this route embodies the unique culture and history of the state. And it’s guaranteed to leave you inspired and filled with memories. If you’re not familiar with the Grand River Heritage Trail, it’s the oldest railroad line in the country and has a long and interesting history.
This 28-mile route connects Suttons Bay to Traverse City and is perfect for sightseeing. Visitors can also enjoy winter activities along this route. Other activities that are fun to do while out on the trail include hiking, mountain biking, and ATV use. The trail connects to the Marquette Multi-Use Path and continues to Kawbagam Road in Chocolay Township. It also has a beautiful beach.
The Grand River Heritage Water Trail includes three distinct sections. Each section features its own committee and alliance to plan and improve the Grand River water trail. The Upper and Middle sections are working together to make the trail a great and sustainable destination for visitors. The Lower section has its own plans and objectives, including identifying access points, evaluating potential waterway hazards, and preserving historic points of interest. If you are a history buff, you’ll definitely enjoy the experience!
While you’re in Grandville, you might want to rent a bike and ride along the Beeline trail. This path connects the two cities by crossing a road. While the trail is part of the road, it’s well-protected by berms. It’s possible to rent a bike for your tour, and many innkeepers will store your bike for you while you’re not using it.
Mackinac Island
This picturesque resort town is located in Lake Huron along the Straits of Mackinac. Approximately 80 percent of the island is a state park. Its terrain is a mix of forests, limestone rock formations, and sea caves. Visitors can explore its historic ambiance and natural features. There are no cars on the island, which makes it a great place to go for hiking or exploring on foot.
For a taste of history, the fort in the town of Mackinac is a must-see attraction. Built during the American Revolution, the fort remained an active military fort until 1895. Visitors can experience period-themed children’s games and hear a daily cannon blast. There are also plenty of things to do on the island. However, some businesses have temporarily closed due to global health and safety concerns.
The wildlife museum features a variety of butterflies and insects. There are numerous species of beetles and cockroaches in this zoo. There are even Madagascan hissing cockroaches and turtles. You can even buy mementos at the museum’s gift shop. Another historic attraction on the island is the Round Island Lighthouse, built in 1890 and used to save many ships.
Another great place for sightseeing in Michigan is Mackinac Island. While there are no automobiles, you can ride a horse and buggy to the island’s historic sites. A horse-drawn carriage ride along the island’s shoreline will provide you with a scenic view of the lake. A bike rental is another great option. As a bonus, there are plenty of restaurants on the island.
Traverse City
When to visit: If you are a fan of beautiful scenery and water activities, Traverse City is a great place to go. The city is located in the northwest part of Michigan and offers a variety of activities in all seasons. In winter, ski resorts and Fat Biking are popular, while water sports and golf courses are popular throughout the year. Traverse City is also a great place to go if you’re looking for something different.
The city features several point-to-point bike paths around downtown. You can ride a bike along the paved path to the nearby town of Sutton Bay. You can also take the Vasa Pathway, which stretches over state forest land and offers challenging terrain for hikers, mountain bikers, and joggers. The Boardman Lake Trail is another popular route and includes a boardwalk over the Boardman River.
If you’re looking for something more outdoors, Traverse City State Park is a great place to visit. This 47-acre site has several hiking and biking trails, as well as areas for fishing and boating. In the fall, this region hosts a National Cherry Festival. This festival features over 150 events throughout the city, including an apple picking contest and apple pies. Families can spend the day exploring the many outdoor activities available in the area.
You can spend your afternoon hiking the Vasa Pathway or taking a stroll along the Boardman Lake Trail. Both routes provide beautiful scenery and are great for exercise. Don’t forget to stop at Doug Murdick’s Fudge, which has a famous giant box of fudge on its roof. The city is also home to several art galleries and other shops. It’s hard to go wrong with Traverse City!
Places to Visit in Michigan
There are many places to visit in Michigan. If you’re wondering what to do and see, read this. Here are some tips for exploring the most popular destinations. Explore Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Saugatuck, Mackinac Island, and more! You’ll be glad you did! And don’t miss the chance to take a boat ride on Mackinac Island! We’ve rounded up our favorite attractions in Michigan.
Grand Rapids
With its four distinct seasons, Grand Rapids, Michigan is a great destination for your next vacation. The city has eclectic live entertainment and solid outdoor recreation. Its determined arts scene includes the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. There’s also a thriving brewing industry and more than 80 breweries along its Beer City Ale Trail, which has been hailed as one of the best in the country.
When it comes to the cost of living, Grand Rapids is relatively affordable. The average annual income is lower than the national average, and housing costs are lower than the national median – despite rising housing prices. This means that Grand Rapids residents spend less money on the basics, such as groceries, utilities, and health care. This makes it a great place for young families with children. And while it is not as affordable as some other U.S. cities, Grand Rapids’ affordability is a huge selling point for attracting new residents.
Sculpture off the Pedestal is an outdoor exhibition of public sculpture that features works by 13 world-renowned artists. This public-private partnership includes financial support from the National Endowment for the Arts, educational support from the Michigan Council for the Arts, and contributions from private donors and volunteers. Aquinas College is a private religious school and is located in Grand Rapids. Several public institutions offer free education in the area.
Traverse City
If you’re a beach lover, Traverse City, Michigan has many beaches to choose from. You’ll find sand and water sports on Lake Michigan, but you can also take in the local cherry blossoms. During the warmer months, the city is congested with people enjoying the beach and splash pads. The city is also home to the National Cherry Festival, which brings visitors from all over the world. There are numerous parks throughout Traverse City to enjoy the great outdoors, whether it’s a hiking, biking, or watching the sunset.
The history of Traverse City begins with Native Americans, who were here long before wine tours and paddleboarding. The area’s first settlers were the Ojibwe and Ottawa tribes. In the 18th century, the first permanent settlement was named Grand Traverse, but this name changed with the arrival of Europeans. In 1847, a man from Illinois bought land along the Boardman River, where he built a sawmill. The sawmill’s success at attracting new settlers led to a post office, and the city was officially named Grand Traverse City. Eventually, the post office changed the name to Traverse City.
Cherry farms are also located in the region, and the Traverse City airport is nicknamed the “Cherry Capital.” In fact, 74 percent of the nation’s tart cherries are grown in the state. During the Cherry Festival, the city celebrates its tart cherries and their cultivation. Bob Sutherland, the owner of Cherry Republic stores, runs a group of shops in the city called the “Cherry Republic.”
Saugatuck
When planning your trip to Saugatuck, Michigan, it’s important to keep the following things in mind: The city has plenty of things to do for both the young and old. The city offers many things to do, from exploring the historic downtown area to visiting several museums. It also has a thriving arts community, which is often the focus of local events and festivals. Those who enjoy the outdoors may find the city’s waterfront a relaxing place to spend the day. The quaint downtown district is also home to several unique shops, including Wine Sellers, which sell quality wines at an affordable price. In addition, Saugatuck boasts over a dozen art galleries and small independent shops, and scenic views from boat tours. You’ll want to check out Mount Baldhead and the Kalamazoo River if you’re visiting Saugatuck.
The downtown area of Saugatuck is compact and full of unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. The downtown district has a unique vintage feel, and there are countless opportunities to buy great gifts and souvenirs. If you’re looking for something unusual, check out the locally owned boutiques and artisan stores, including Camp Willow and Glick’s. You can also buy an interesting gift at one of the town’s many craft stores, including Lucia’s World Emporium and Urban Found. You can even get a unique souvenir at Tuck’s of Saugatuck, or choose an unusual gift at Swell Times.
Mackinac Island
A sweeping lakeshore and dramatic limestone outcrops are just some of the attractions you’ll find on Mackinac Island. You can spend the day walking, biking, cross-country skiing, or even riding horseback around the island. You can even take a sightseeing cruise if you’re not feeling up to biking or hiking. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own bikes, but bicycles can be rented on the island.
For those who love history, Mackinac Island is home to several haunted places. You can visit the Post Cemetery, where you’ll find American and British soldiers from the War of 1812. If you’re feeling more adventurous, head over to Mackinac Island Cemetery, where you’ll find only cemetery plots for local residents. You can also explore historic sites throughout the island. If you’re interested in exploring the island’s history, you should check out the Mackinac State Historic Parks.
Arch Rock is a popular attraction on Mackinac Island, attracting tourists for more than 150 years. You can take a bike trail to get an up-close look at the arch or hike around the island with interpretive signs. You can also take a Native American Cultural History Trail, which features six pull-outs with informative signs explaining the Indigenous history. And don’t forget to stop at British Landing, where there are bike repair stations and restrooms.
Manitou Islands
North and South Manitou Islands are located in Lake Michigan. North Manitou Island is an island that is almost eight miles long and four miles wide with approximately 20 kilometers of shoreline. North Manitou Island is the larger of the two islands and is located northwest of South Manitou Island. Both islands are accessible by ferry. North Manitou Island is a popular vacation spot, especially with its sandy beaches and quaint shops and restaurants.
There was no indigenous population on the Manitou Islands when Europeans arrived in Michigan. In fact, the first human settlers were French explorers and fur trappers. As the islands didn’t have much mineral wealth, they were largely exploited for logging and fishing. Ultimately, this left only the pretty beaches and ruins of ancient settlements. And today, people still visit the Manitou Islands to enjoy the beaches, fishing, and wildlife.
South Manitou Island is slightly smaller than North Manitou Island and has a land area of only 8.2 square miles. Most visitors visit the island for a day trip, during which they can walk the island and explore its history. There is a ferry service that departs from Fishtown in Leland, Michigan each morning and returns at 4 p.m., so reservations are highly recommended. But don’t forget to buy tickets in advance for the ferry if you plan to visit in the summer.
Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula is a lush forested area in Michigan bordered by three Great Lakes and stretching out from Wisconsin. It is joined to the Lower Peninsula via the famous Mackinac Bridge, which spans the Straits of Mackinac. If you want a relaxing car-free vacation, you should consider going to Mackinac Island, home to the Victorian-era Fort and the iconic 1887 Grand Hotel.
The Upper Peninsula is home to nearly two dozen state parks, including the massive Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The state park features some of the state’s most popular attractions, including Tahquamenon Falls. The region also boasts the largest freshwater natural spring in the country and miles of scenic roads. For nature lovers, the Upper Peninsula is a great jumping-off point for visits to Isle Royale National Park, one of the world’s least-visited national parks. You’ll need to make camping reservations in advance and take a ferry from Houghton to the island’s main harbor.
While visiting the Upper Peninsula, be sure to check out its unique local cuisine. Besides the famous pasty, this delicious meat turnover was brought to the region by Cornish miners. The various types of pasty include venison, chicken, and pork. You can also sample the more modern hamburger or pizza at several restaurants in the region. You’ll find many restaurants that serve pasty varieties as well as a variety of other delicacies, such as potato sausage and cudighi.
Detroit
The city of Detroit is experiencing a resurgence. Despite its dreary history, this vibrant, cosmopolitan destination is relatively inexpensive. Explore its unique neighborhoods and attractions – from upscale shopping and restaurants to sports stadiums, golf courses, and recreational facilities – and you’ll be captivated by the “Motor City’s” vibrant vibe. For a more culturally enriching vacation, consider a stop at one of the city’s museums.
There are countless things to do in the city’s historic downtown core. To really get a feel for the city’s pulse, sign up for a walking tour. These tours last about two hours and offer a chance to meet locals and see the city’s most notable attractions. To add to the fun, many of the tours include free admission and free parking. After the tour, enjoy a drink and a bite to eat, then head to a nearby park or restaurant for live music.
If you love museums, the Detroit Public Library branch is a must-see. Its beautiful interiors make it a cozy spot to read a book or search through its archives. It is worth a visit if you’re looking for an inspiring experience for your family. During the summer, there are often special exhibitions and activities at the museum – currently, it has a painting exhibition by Desiree Kelly. The building’s glass atrium makes it an outstanding choice for a visit to the city.
Things to Do in Michigan
While you’re in Michigan, you can check out the famous Keweenaw Peninsula, fun and scenic place to see, where you can observe farming and nature at the same time. This region is renowned for its agricultural and farming culture, which has played a major role in midwestern economies. You can also visit the Detroit Eastern Market, a beloved landmark in the city for more than a century, to purchase fresh and delicious produce.
Michigan City Farmers Market
The new Michigan City Farmers Market is slated to open on May 1st, 2021. Located on the shoreline of Lake Michigan, this enclosed market will feature locally-grown produce, artisan goods, and more. The market will also feature a two-day food truck festival called Fedder’s Alley, hosted by Michigan City Parks and Recreation. The new market will also offer a variety of food and beverage choices that are both fresh and local.
Grand Rapids
If you’re planning to visit one of the great cities in Michigan, you might want to consider Grand Rapids, which sits on the Grand River just east of Lake Michigan. If you like nature and have a green thumb, you might enjoy visiting the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, which features a tropical conservatory, multiple gardens, and an art collection including works by Henry Moore. Another attraction in Grand Rapids is the Grand Rapids Art Museum, which features Michigan artists. The city’s breweries are also well known.
As a result of its growing economy, Grand Rapids is one of the most affordable cities in the United States. Its cost of living is significantly lower than the national average, and its average annual income is far below that of other major U.S. metros. Housing costs are also below the national average, although prices are rising in this area. This lower cost of living means that residents of Grand Rapids spend less on daily necessities like food, clothing, and health care.
The city has a rich history. It was the first city in Michigan to build streetcars and was the world’s largest urban historic district. This historic district contains more than a thousand homes, many of which date back to 1848. In fact, Grand Rapids’ first neighborhood was built in 1848, and its architecture represents more than 60 different styles. The Meyer May House, which was built by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1908, is also a significant landmark in the area.
Isle Royale National Park
On the western edge of Lake Superior, a cluster of islands makes up Isle Royale National Park, a wild, car-free wilderness. Here, wolves and moose call the islands home. A hike up Greenstone Ridge Trail leads to windigo harbor in the west and Rock Harbor in the east. Diving in the area’s waters is also popular, with shipwrecks and a 19th-century lighthouse.
In 1845, a woman named Angelique and her husband Charlie Mott were left on the island, as hires for a copper miner named Cyrus Mendenhall. They were brought to the island by a schooner and were then hired by the mining company to guard the copper ore until a barge could retrieve it. The barge was to retrieve the ore within three months, so Angelique and Charlie Mott were left with nothing but their bare essentials.
While most of the park is open to the public, you may be unable to enjoy it to the fullest because of unpredictable weather. But don’t let that stop you from having a great time in the forest. While you’re there, you may be surprised by the wildlife you see. The park is home to moose, red squirrels, otters, tortoises, frogs, and red foxes. And don’t forget to look for birds; there is a multitude of species of birds that flourish in the area.
Mount Bohemia ski resort
Located in Keweenaw County, Michigan, Mount Bohemia is the 5th highest point on the Keweenaw Peninsula and the 52nd highest peak in Michigan. With a 1,465-foot elevation, Mount Bohemia is a beautiful ski resort for those who love to explore the outdoors. Whether you want to enjoy the winter wonderland or a quick getaway with friends, Mount Bohemia has something for you.
Located on the Keweenaw Peninsula, Mount Bohemia is an all-inclusive, four-season destination for skiers and snowboarders. The resort has cabins made of 16-20 inch diameter British Columbia Red Cedar logs, and lakeshore units are stone-sided and half-log-style on the inside. For those who prefer to stay in a more rustic style, there are also cottages available that are furnished with kitchen and dining facilities.
The mountain is not the most scenic spot in the Midwest, but the terrain is unique and fun. The terrain here is primarily advanced or expert and is best suited to those with some experience in snowboarding and skiing. For your safety, it’s a good idea to wear ski/board helmets, especially on Voodoo Mountain. Remember that reckless skiing or snowboarding can cause an accident and result in serious injury. The skier responsibility code requires you to be at least intermediate in order to ride at Mount Bohemia.
Those looking for a challenging ski experience will be pleasantly surprised by the mountain’s wide range of terrain. The ski area is home to some of the best natural halfpipes in the country, a 40-foot frozen waterfall cliff jump, steeps, and face shots. Bohemia Mountain’s extreme terrain also features a cat skiing experience on Voodoo Mountain. This mountain is not for beginners and requires a signed waiver before skiing the terrain.
Michigan City Municipal Golf’s North and South Courses
In addition to a beautiful location and friendly staff, the 18-hole Michigan City Municipal Golf Courses offer challenging golf for any skill level. The “North Course” was designed by Ted Meetz and opened for play in 1974. It features a par of 72 and is open from early spring to late fall. Randall L. Durham manages the courses. The golf courses have a total distance of 6,169 yards.
The Michigan City Municipal Golf Courses are easy to find, located off Highway 20 near Roske Street and Springland Avenue. You’ll find the course on the left side of the road. Golf attire is modest, with no jeans, a collared shirt, or athletic shorts. A golf cart is required. Tee times are available seven days a week. Guests can also download or receive the Visitors Guide, which offers ideas for planning a unique trip.
If you want to play golf in a beautiful, affordable venue, the Michigan City Golf Course may be the right place for you. Open from early spring until late fall, this public golf course offers two challenging 18-hole courses. Each course has its own unique features and challenges, including water hazards and doglegs. The golf courses are designed by Ted Meetz and are managed by Randall L. Durham.
The North Course offers a par-72, 18-hole course that plays to a total distance of 6,169 yards. It is a popular course for golfers of all skill levels. It features a variety of terrains, including hills, doglegs, sand traps, and water hazards. You’ll want to dress appropriately for the weather, too. While golfing in Michigan City, you’ll want to dress accordingly.
