Found 11 blog entries tagged as Michigan road trips.

If you have to pick between Michigan’s two national lakeshores, you are not choosing between good and better. You are choosing between two great but very different experiences. Sleeping Bear Dunes delivers warm-water beach days, easy overlooks, and small-town charm you can wander on foot. Pictured Rocks answers with painted cliffs, waterfall hikes, and a true inland-sea vibe on Lake Superior. As a Metro Detroit local who road-trips north all year, here is the most useful head-to-head you will find, with the specifics that actually help you plan.

The quick answer

  • Best for families and first timers: Sleeping Bear Dunes

  • Best for epic scenery and adventure: Pictured Rocks

  • Closest to Metro Detroit: Sleeping Bear Dunes

  • Warmest swim: Sleeping…

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Michigan’s tourism industry isn’t just about summer vacations and weekend getaways; it’s a powerhouse economic engine for the state. A new report reveals that in 2024 Michigan attracted record numbers of visitors and dollars, translating fun and leisure into serious economic growth. From the shores of the Great Lakes to the streets of Detroit, tourism is boosting businesses, creating jobs, and even helping fund community services through tax revenue. This article breaks down the latest findings in a conversational, insider tone, the kind of perspective you’d get from a lifelong Michigander who’s watched this growth firsthand. Let’s dive into how Pure Michigan adventures are paying off for our local economy and what it means for families and communities…

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Michigan’s history isn’t just in textbooks, it’s built into the bricks of our theaters, the timbers of our lighthouses, the machinery of our factories, and the cobblestones of our waterfront towns. From the industrial pulse of Detroit to the windswept shores of the Upper Peninsula, every corner of the Mitten tells a story. Some places shaped our country’s industries. Others hold the memory of communities that thrived, fought, and adapted through centuries of change. This guide brings you 50 of the most remarkable historical sites in Michigan, spots that locals love, visitors seek out, and every Michigander should experience at least once.

If you’re craving even more must-visit spots beyond our historical picks, check out our ‘Michigan Bucket List: Top…

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Ask ten Michiganders where "Up North" begins, and you’ll get twelve different answers. Some point to a highway exit. Others name a favorite lake town. A few insist it doesn’t start until you cross the Mackinac Bridge.

But that's what makes the idea of "Up North" so special: it's both a destination and a feeling.

It’s the first time you see more pine trees than power lines. It’s the moment traffic clears and the air smells like wood smoke and water. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, pulling up to a lakeside cabin, or just passing a handmade pasty sign on the side of the road, the experience is universal: you’ve left the grind behind and entered the best version of Michigan.

Still, there are some clear turning points. If you’ve ever driven north…

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There’s nothing quite like discovering a hidden gem in your own backyard, especially when that backyard spans the two peninsulas of Michigan. One such gem is Kitch-iti-Kipi, a spring so enchanting that the Ojibwa people nicknamed it the “Mirror of Heaven.” Tucked away in the lush forests of the Upper Peninsula (U.P.), Kitch-iti-Kipi is a place many Metro Detroiters have heard whispers about but few have experienced firsthand. Imagine crystal-clear emerald water where giant trout glide over ancient sunken logs, and you can peer 40 feet down as if looking through glass. For lifelong Michiganders and curious families alike, this natural wonder is a must-see that truly lives up to the hype.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes Kitch-iti-Kipi so magical,…

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There’s a place in Michigan so enchanting that even lifelong residents speak of it with awe. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P.) feels like a world apart – a land of towering pine forests, sparkling waterfalls, and charming small towns frozen in time. The moment you cross the majestic Mackinac Bridge and head north, you enter a realm of natural beauty and nostalgia that families and seasoned travelers cherish. Even the folklore here is larger-than-life – campfire tales speak of Paul Bunyan and Hiawatha canoeing through “root beer”–colored falls, and sometimes the Northern Lights themselves dance overhead. It’s no wonder many consider the U.P. “God’s Country,” a place where everyday worries melt away amid untouched wilderness. Whether you’re planning a…

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Living in Michigan offers endless culinary adventures, but few experiences rival the simple joy of biting into a perfectly grilled burger at a classic drive-in. Whether you're a lifelong resident or considering moving to Michigan, exploring the Upper Peninsula’s iconic drive-in burger spots should be at the top of your bucket list. From nostalgic roadside stands to hidden gems loved by locals, these burger joints are absolutely worth the drive—and each delivers a uniquely delicious taste of the Great Lakes State.

Southeast Michigan
West & Central Michigan
Northern Michigan
Upper Peninsula

Miller's Bar, Facebook

Southeast Michigan: Metro Detroit & Beyond Burger Royalty

Arguably Metro Detroit’s most acclaimed burger. Redcoat Tavern has been an…

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Nestled in the Straits of Mackinac between Michigan’s peninsulas, Mackinac Island is a beloved getaway that feels frozen in time. This charming island draws over a million visitors each year with its horse-drawn carriages, historic forts, and famous homemade fudge. It’s a place where cars have been banned since 1898, so the only traffic jams you’ll encounter are bicycles and horses. Visiting Mackinac Island is like stepping back to a simpler era, and a little insider knowledge goes a long way in making the most of your trip.

Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, Facebook

In this guide, we’ve compiled 15 essential “Do’s” and 15 “Don’ts” for visiting Mackinac Island – consider these your ultimate Mackinac Island tips and things to know before visiting. From…

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**Updated September 10, 2025


Michigan is brimming with charming small towns that offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, local culture, and friendly vibes. From the wilderness of the Upper Peninsula to the beachy havens of the Lower Peninsula, these pint-sized destinations prove you don’t need a big city for a big experience. Whether you’re planning weekend getaways in Michigan or an epic road trip, our guide now covers 26 of the best small towns in Michigan, 11 in the Upper Peninsula and 15 in the Lower Peninsula , that capture pure Michigan charm. Each town has its own unique attractions: think waterfall hikes, historic downtowns, cozy festivals, and maybe even a pasty or some fudge. So grab a cup of coffee (or a craft beer) and let’s explore…

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What exactly is it about Michigan that grabs hold and doesn't let go? Whether it's the first time feeling the refreshing splash of the Great Lakes or savoring cherished seasonal traditions, the Mitten State has a knack for becoming unforgettable. Sure, residents often gripe about the relentless winters and roads peppered with potholes, but leave the state, and even these quirks become fond memories. Those who've moved away often find themselves reminiscing about all the small details and local charm that once seemed ordinary. For anyone lucky enough to still live in Michigan—or anyone contemplating a move—here are 25 iconic experiences you'll undoubtedly miss if you ever leave.

1. The Great Lakes and Sandy Beaches

Michigan is blessed with…

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