Wineries dot the Old Mission Peninsula, including the well-known and well-loved wineries like Black Star Farms and the magnificent castle in the country known as Chateau Chantal. The town is in the Allegan State Game Reserve, a haven for fishermen, boaters, hikers, and swimmers. You've got 32,500 acres of pure . By Elizabeth Rhodes Updated on September 30, 2022 Fact checked by Elizabeth MacLennan Midland Michigan Is One of Our Favorite Michigan Winter Getaways Michigan Winter Getaways - Midland Michigan Midland Michigan offers great photography, skiing, hiking and exploring in the winter. Complimentary continental breakfast and valet parking are included. Every 4th of July, the city comes alive with parades, fireworks, fun runs, and more. While here, travelers can take part in a variety of activities, including hiking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, fishing and scuba diving (Isle Royale is home to ten major shipwrecks). Follow us to discover the best spots in Michigan to Stay, Play, Eat and Beach! Author Anietra Hamper spends time traveling in Michigan to some of the main cities and hidden surprises that make for great weekend getaways. Blue is the dominant color in Michigan, a state hugged by four out of five Great Lakes. As a megalopolis, youve got a diverse mix of things to do between the citys restaurants, bars, cafes, nightclubs, and museums. This is an excellent place to visit for craft beverage lovers because there are many craft breweries and wineries in the Traverse City area. The area is defined by its mining roots with the Mohawk Mining Company that settled here in the late 19th century. Live Like Royalty at the Amway Grand Plaza, Curio Collection by Hilton Hotel - Grand Rapids. Monday - Open 24 hours. Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, making it a marvel of Michigans natural landscape, much like Pictured Rocks. Visit Michigan wineries. Stay at Benjamins Beaver Creek Resort when you visit Gaylord with your family. One of the highlights in St. Ignace is Castle Rock, a stunning natural geological formation of limestone that is the subject of many photographs. Bay City is known for its aquatic playground at Bay City State Park. Vote for your favorite destination below to help decide next year's list. Its an old-world B&B stocked with fine wine and an ideal place for wine lovers. Get to the heart of Detroit culture atMotown Museum, admire art masterpieces atDetroit Institute of Arts, see Federal architecture atCorktown (the citys oldest neighborhood), and explore the endless culinary offerings and non-stop attitudeof energetic Downtown Detroit. For an even more authenticexperience, take an old-schoolhand-cranked Saugatuck Chain Ferry across the Kalamazoo River. For an unforgettable visit to Bellaire you can go in August and take part in the Annual Rubber Ducky Festival, an event that has become synonymous with the town. Highlight: Tap into your inner child while climbing the towering dunes over Lake Michigan. Igloo Reservation Times: 12pm-2pm; 2:30pm-4:30pm; 5pm-7pm; 7:30pm-9:30pm. Sample some homemade fudge, visit Fort Mackinac, play around with water sports, or go horseback riding on Mackinac Island. If you are looking for a romantic weekend getaway in Michigan, then look no further. Your quest for a more active weekend getaway should steer you to Ann Arbor, where sports and culture reign supreme. Enjoy the local vendors, artists, culinary expressions, and the history of the neighborhood. More than a dozen waterfalls are in the area, ranging from small but beautiful cascades to jaw-dropping cascades from cliff sides, including some of Michigan's best waterfalls. "url": "https://www.tripstodiscover.com", Facebook 3) Or at Sparrow Market in Ann Arbor. The small village of Bellaire has boutique shops and galleries that are nice to peruse. There are several lighthouses near Munising, which are great to photograph, and underwater diving excursions to explore the shipwrecks and sea caves. Get to the top of Mount Baldhead nearby for the best vistas over this charming Michigan corner. 1. By The New York Times Staff July 19, 2023. Were passionate about sharing the beauty of Michigan with you. Be aware that the park closes during winter, and bikes are not allowed. Discover the best things to do in this charming northern Lake Michigan resort town. Its convenient location, within an hour of Detroit, makes Ann Arbor a perfect day trip for anyone in southeast Michigan. The seven-mile drive takes you past 12 scenic spots with some of the best views of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Glen Lake. While Detroits industrial grittiness and automotive prowess (and subsequent decline) may pop up immediately when you think of this Midwest state, it offers much more. When you are looking for a destination to plan Michigan romantic getaways, Mackinac Island usually tops the list. Located in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula, its probably most well-known for its production oftart cherries and holds the record for being the largest supplier of this sour fruit in the U.S. Traverse City celebrates this fact by throwing an annual National Cherry Festival in July. Frankenmuth is one of the top-rated destinations in Michigan, perfect for thoselooking to recharge and experience something different, even if only for a weekend. If youre looking for a cheap getaway in Michigan, this city is here to offer its services. The area has a rich history of being one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the United States. Sunday - Open 24 hours. History 15. West Michigan is a beer haven, with breweries dotted throughout, but Grand Rapids has plenty of the favorite Michigan beers at places like Grand Rapids Brewing Company, Atwater Brewing Co., or Founders conveniently within the city. This is one of the most romantic weekend getaways in Michigan where you can spend time beside Lake Huron. } There are plenty of pristine beaches to choose from. You will forget that you are in Michigan. Frankenmuth is a popular historic city most known for its historic German attractions and where Christmas is a year-round theme. Take a weekend trip to Tecumseh for another lovely example of small-town America. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Many are located in between main cities to take advantage of the natural landscape while still keeping you close to the urban scene. Here are ten of the most ideal spots in Michigan to spend a three (or four! Michigan has incredible outdoor experiences, like climbing the sand dunes at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, tackling the downhill slopes at some of the ski resorts, or kayaking and swimming near some of the beaches on Lake Erie and Lake Huron. Spend your weekend wandering the back roads, and stop at a sidewalk cafe. Potter Park Zoo is another city highlight inviting you on a tour ofthreatened and endangered animals where you can see everything from snow leopards and penguins to tigers. However, deciding where to go in Michigan is a far trickier question, as there are so many worthwhile attractions here. You can either choose a horse-driven carriageor embark on a cycling journey around the island. Finally, visit the magnificentFrederik Meijer Gardens with Rodin sculptures and pretty landscaping. Roadside Attractions 12. Once on Mackinac, visitors can taste some of its world-famous fudge, tour historical sites like Fort Mackinac and explore the island's state park, which covers more than 80% of the island. Plan an idyllic escape to revel in fall's colorful splendor. Being a northern Michigan town, the charm and beauty of Petoskey in all seasons is stunning and there is plenty to do in the area. And then theres Isle Royal, holding a proud record of being the least-visited national park in the contiguous United States. For fresh air, head to scenicHolland State Park on Lake Michigan with its magnificent Ottawa Beach, a campground, and the iconic red Holland Harbor Lighthouse nearby. There are many cool sights to see and exciting things to do. Allegan is an ideal weekend getaway in Western Michigan for outdoor lovers. You can spend part of your getaway exploring this unique part of the Upper Peninsula with a mine tour at the Delaware Copper Mines and visiting the Central Mine Museum Complex. Pleasant, MI, The Cultured Biker: Mixing Biking & the Arts in Bentonville, AR, Touring New York by Water Using the NYC Ferry System, 24 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Grand Rapids, MI, Top Attractions & Things to Do on Mackinac Island, MI, The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, best Christmas markets in the United States, Sleeping Bear Dunes Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum, The Father Marquette Mission Park and Museum of Ojibwa Culture. Port Austin is a jewel of the Great Lakes Bay Region at the tip of Michigans thumb along at the mouth of the Saginaw Bay and is one of the best getaway destinations on the Lake Huron coast. From perfectly manicured golf courses that you can play in the summer to the ski slopes in the winter, Bellaire is a small town with a lot of activities available that balance well with the slower pace during your downtime. While the University of Michigan is a gorgeous and esteemed place to explore, there's more to Ann Arbor than a stunning campus and lots of study locales. First and foremost, Grand Rapids has become the ultimate beer destination in recent years. A must-see in Midland is Dow Gardens, where spring blossoms are stunning in the 110-acre botanical gardens. It is wise to start your visit at The Father Marquette Mission Park and Museum of Ojibwa Culture to find out more about the Indigenous people of the area. Enjoy the parks and monuments dedicated to some of the most significant events in US history. What cities are under three hours from Chicago by car? Family-Friendly Trip Ideas Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities in Michigan Highlight: The 200-foot tall geological wonder of Castle Rock with panoramic views over Lake Huron. Kids love the Impression 5 Science Center, filled with lots of interactive exhibits and fun. "dateModified": "2023-05-09", 10 Best Weekend Getaways From Chicago Waterfalls, wildlife, and lots of small-town charm await. Walking along the Detroit River, enjoying an ice cream cone on Mackinac Island or touring the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor are . Highlight: A yesteryear vacation complete with horse-drawn carriage rides and historic elegant hotels. 2. Here youll also find scenic drives, rugged paths, lush forests, and cultural attractions in the urban areas. The Women's World Cup is underway in Australia and New Zealand, and continues until the final in Sydney on Aug. 20. In Traverse City there is plenty to do, including an abundance of outdoor activity options where the best views of Grand Traverse Bay can be discovered. Go for a stroll along the boardwalk on the St. Ignace waterfront for great views of Lake Huron, and historical markers that tell more about the history of the area, and stop by the Wawatam Lighthouse in the St. Ignace harbor. The time difference between and . Milwaukee, Wisconsin (1 hour, 30 minutes) Madison, Wisconsin (2 hours, 25 minutes) Grand Rapids, Michigan (2 hours, 47 minutes) Peoria, Illinois (2 hours, 41 minutes) South Bend, Indiana (1 hour, 39 minutes) Indianapolis, Indiana (2 hours, 56 minutes) 1) First thing you'll want to do is do some shopping. You have more than 130 commercial wineries to choose from, most set on some of the state's most scenic vistas. Traverse City is the cherry on top of the best cheap weekend getaways in Michigan. Clinch Park 8. Ever since the 19th century,Saugatuck has enjoyed the fame of an artists colony, and today you can find many galleries dotting the cityscape. Couples can take a horse-drawn carriage ride or a wine and chocolate boat tour to add a little romance to the weekend. The spa specializes in hot- and cold-water exposure that rejuvenates the body and mind, followed by relaxation around a bonfire - or at the Log Cabin Bar. The breadth of options will allow you to choose the ones that fit your budget. . This charming community is just a short drive from Petoskey and offers both a lovely downtown shopping area and stunning Lake Michigan beaches. Cleveland. "image": { Add its fantastic location next to Lake Michigans blue expanse, the vibrant restaurant scene, and the abundance of historic architecture and theres no doubt that this is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway in Michigan. Moviegoers in large parts of the United States and Canada would need to drive more than three hours the film's runtime to get to a theater offering the Imax-70mm version of the film. An unforgettable display of pure beauty, the mighty waterfalls descend into the Lake Superior waters alongside otherworldly multicolored rock formations. our latest advice & deals in your inbox! Visitors can also try other winter activities like ice skating, snowmobiling and sledding. Activities: Take a Boat/Cruise Tour, which should cover the Places to Visit. The air is the freshest of the fresh, too. Highlight: Small town scene with galleries, shops, and spas for a quiet weekend. Please use the buttons below to share this post with others. Its just about a two-hour drive from metro Detroit. #16 in Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest. But remember, lifeguards do not patrol the lakeshore's beaches, so vacationers should be careful when getting in Lake Superior's unpredictable waters. The ferries fromMackinaw City andSt Ignace take you to this marvelous Lake Huron island, boasting old forts, historic houses, and unlimited outdoor enjoyment opportunities. Check out this Michigan nature bucket list for more details on gorgeous waterfalls, natural springs, impressive rock formations, and everything in between. Learn more about this charming spot and plan your visit to Mackinac Island now. Where to ride State-designated ORV trails and routes State forest roads Holly Oaks ORV Park Silver Lake State Park ORV Area More places to ride Free ORV Weekends Twice a year, residents and nonresidents legally can DNR-designated routes and trails without purchasing an ORV license or trail permit. Google Maps. Take a picnic lunch and head to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can experience one of northern Michigan's favorite pastimes, climbing the sand dunes. "@context": "http://schema.org", To find that perfect cut of meat for the grill. The small village of Bellaire near Michigan's Chain of Lakes is a tranquil place to enjoy a girlfriends' getaway. Where to Stay: Beautiful resorts in Michigan offer spa and golf getaways. Continue with the Dutch heritage theme by visiting Nelis' Dutch Village, with over 10 acres of a replicated historic Dutch village complete with a theme park, wooden crafted shoes, and decadent pastries to sample. While more than 20,000 people have already bought tickets for Christopher Nolan's " Oppenheimer ," only 19 theaters in the U.S. have the capacity to show the movie as the director . Traverse City is perfect for a couple's getaway, a solo retreat to indulge in farm-to-table delicacies, or a family getaway where you can stay at a resort like Great Wolf Lodge and take advantage of activities that both kids and parents enjoy. Saugatuck. } This is where artists have flocked for many years because of its natural beauty with white beaches, grassy dunes, and incredible sunsets. Between the abundance of local and international artists showcased here and the worlds largest art competition, ArtPrize, Grand Rapids proves itself as a creative hub with plenty of artistic spirit. Home Weekend Getaways in Michigan: Eight Top Spots. Photo credit: Jamie Bartosch. Plan a visit to tour the historic Fort Mackinac and go for tea at the Grand Hotel to see the famous movie backdrop of Somewhere in Time. To complement your themed weekend, plan a stay at the Graduate Ann Arbor, located across from the University of Michigan in downtown Ann Arbor, where the collegiate dcor and tone will make you feel like a college student again. 1. To satisfy your artsy side, plan a themed weekend getaway in Grand Rapids, where the public art, music, and food set a creative mood. Summer is perfect for exploring the towns Gaslight District where the shopping and dining experience is independent and unique. One of the most fun things to do here is to go on a dune ride, which is excellent for the whole family. Petosky offers many types of adrenaline-filled outdoor recreation from ziplining to skydiving. Let's get going. Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely walk to breakfast along the waterfront. Even if you visit other times of the year, Ann Arbor is known for its ongoing festivals and events relating to culture, arts, theater, and history, so you are likely to find one scheduled during your visit. Explore the historic architecture of the Water Street and enjoy the many quaintcafes and eateries. To extend your time on the water, plan a trip on board BaySail's Appledore Tall Ships, where you can enjoy an unforgettable sailing experience and also contribute to the company's conservation efforts for the Saginaw Bay and the Great Lakes. The quaint town of Port Huron is a quiet retreat situated on the St. Clair River, ideal for a romantic getaway weekend or one themed with nautical history. If you live or near Michigan, the call of the wild is hard to ignore, so were sharing eight perfect weekend getaways in Michigan. Susan Montgomery / Shutterstock. The appeal of Traverse City in every season is that it makes the perfect road trip. It sets the scene for your artistic getaway as you explore the three art museums in Grand Rapids, including the incredible Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, and peruse the public art in the city. One of the most inspirational destinations in Michigan,Saugatuck is filled with natural beauty and urban pleasantries. Here are ten of the best road trips in Michigan to take. Chesaning is a small village on the Shiawassee River that is worth a stop for lunch and a stroll through some of the family-owned shops. Traverse City. M-22 and the Leelanau Peninsula. The driver ended up . 1. From the old Victorian charm on Mackinac Island, where life runs at a slower pace, to the breathtaking excitement of running on the sand dunes in the summer along Lake Michigan, and the urban revival of Detroit, every Michigan experience is unique. Horseback riding is a popular activity among tourists and there are plenty of sights to see, including a couple of historic lighthouses and the unique rock formation called Turnip Rock. It has lived through highs and lows, given birth to the Motown genre, developed a distinct techno sound, and reemerged from the industrial decline stronger than ever via a cultural renaissance. Head to the beach for an unforgettable time with your four-legged friend. This island in Midwest is a great way to slow down with your partner and enjoy leisurely walks along the waterfront. Mackinac Island. Remember, the park is open from mid-April through October and offers limited services, so plan accordingly. Recommended Hotel: : Canopy By Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown. You can also spend a day driving the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive route. One of the most gorgeous places to visit in Michigan and home to some of the best beaches in the Midwest, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is an absolute must if you're looking for a natural escape. For a one-of-a-kind weekend that's set against the wild Michigan landscape, plan a trip to the Nordic Spa at Mount Bohemia in the Keweenaw Peninsula. If you find yourself in Port Huron, Michigan on a weekend, one of the must-visit spots is the Blue Water River Walk. To help you decide which spots are right for your next vacation, U.S. News considered factors like number of activities, availability of accommodations and sentiment among travelers to decide the best places to visit in Michigan. If you have not been to Detroit lately, then you have not seen the vibrant transformation of the Motor City, worthy of an action-packed weekend getaway with lots of hotel options in the city's various districts.

New Caney Isd Last Day Of School, How Many Murders In Maine 2023, Convention Center Parking, Employment Pass Malaysia Status, Articles P