blog - Summer in Michigan

Where to See Sunflowers in Michigan: Top Farms and Photo Spots

Michigan’s sunflower season is short, bright, and absolutely worth planning around. From Lake Superior sunsets behind golden blooms in the Upper Peninsula to kid-friendly mazes and u-pick bouquets downstate, the state’s farms deliver a burst of color right when summer is hitting its stride. Bloom windows vary by region and weather, fields often open or close with a few days’ notice, and photo policies can change by the weekend. The goal here is simple: help families and savvy locals pick the right field, show up prepared, and leave with great photos and even better memories.

Below you’ll find a quick-compare snapshot, then a region-by-region breakdown of Michigan’s best sunflower farms and festivals. Every listing includes practical details, insider…

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The Best Affordable Michigan Beach You’ve Never Heard Of

Families in southeast Michigan who have trekked to the Upper Peninsula will tell you: the long, long drive is absolutely worth it. Tucked along Lake Superior’s coast, in a region most downstaters only dream about each summer, lies a hidden gem that’s both stunning and surprisingly gentle on the wallet. We’re talking about Twelvemile Beach – a pristine stretch of sand in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore that was recently crowned the most affordable beach destination in the entire country. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Up North getaway that won’t break the bank, this low-cost Michigan beach should top your summer travel list.

Want a full list of the best U.P. waterfalls? Check out our Michigan's Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip

Pictured Rocks…

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25 Biggest and Best Fireworks Shows in Michigan for Summer 2025

There is nothing quite like a Michigan summer night. The breeze off the lake. The hum of cicadas. The scent of grilled burgers lingering in the air. And then, just when the sky turns that deep shade of navy, the fireworks begin.

Whether you're a die-hard Fourth of July fan, a parent planning the perfect family night, or someone who simply wants to catch the biggest and best fireworks shows in Michigan this summer, this is the guide you didn't know you needed but will absolutely be glad you have.

From Lake Michigan beach towns to Metro Detroit parks and Upper Peninsula gems, here are 25 Michigan fireworks displays that deserve a spot on your summer calendar.

From local festivals to fireworks nights, there’s so much happening—like the many summer…

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Exploring Metro Detroit: Top Things to Do in July

If you're living in Metro Detroit or even just moving to Metro Detroit, July is one of the best months to dive headfirst into the region’s vibrant summer scene. From massive art fairs and outdoor concerts to fireworks shows and family festivals, Metro Detroit transforms into a celebration of culture, community, and entertainment. Whether you’re planning weekend getaways, looking for family-friendly events, or searching for can’t-miss concerts, this month is packed with experiences that highlight the area’s rich diversity and unmistakable summertime energy. With something happening in nearly every corner—from historic celebrations in Clawson and Dearborn to world-class headliners at Little Caesars Arena and Pine Knob—July offers the perfect mix of…

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Fun Under the Sun: Family-Friendly Picnic Spots in Metro Detroit to Enjoy the Sunshine

There’s nothing quite like a sunny afternoon in Metro Detroit, birds chirping, grills sizzling, and families laughing under shady oaks or lakeside breezes. Whether you're packing PB&Js for the little ones or planning a full-blown feast with friends, Southeast Michigan is packed with incredible picnic spots that are perfect for relaxing, reconnecting, and soaking up those golden rays.

From scenic island parks to wide-open spaces with playgrounds, trails, and splash pads, here’s a handpicked list of family-friendly picnic spots that locals love — and newcomers need to know about. So grab your blanket, pack the cooler, and discover where Metro Detroit families go when the sun comes out to play.

Addison Oaks County Park and Campground (Leonard, MI),…

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Mackinac Island Named Best Summer Travel Destination for Third Year in a Row

MACKINAC ISLAND, MI — If you’ve ever stood on a bluff at Fort Holmes, fudge in hand, watching the sun sink into Lake Huron, then this won’t come as a surprise. For the third consecutive year, Mackinac Island has been crowned the No. 1 Best Summer Travel Destination by the USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Awards. And for those of us living in Metro Detroit? We already knew it was a national treasure—now it’s just official.

With its car-free streets, Victorian charm, jaw-dropping natural beauty, and rich history, Mackinac isn’t just a destination—it’s a ritual, a legacy, a rite of passage for Michiganders. Especially for families across Metro Detroit, the island is the backdrop to countless summer memories, and its recent three-peat honor is the perfect…

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Metro Detroit Movies in the Park: Free Family-Friendly Flicks Under the Stars

There’s nothing quite like a warm summer evening spent outdoors with your family, a cozy blanket, and a beloved film lighting up the night sky. Whether you’re already living in Metro Detroit or moving to Metro Detroit and looking for ways to explore your new community, this region offers an incredible lineup of free, family-friendly movies in the park all season long. From scenic waterfronts and downtown greenspaces to spacious suburban fields and iconic public venues, local parks across the metro area are turning into open-air theaters, hosting movies under the stars that are perfect for kids, teens, and grown-ups alike. This guide breaks down all the best summer movie nights happening across Metro Detroit in 2025—so you can plan ahead, pack your snacks,…

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Experience Metro Detroit’s Best-Kept Secrets: Public and Private Garden Tours

Metro Detroit is truly in bloom during summer 2025, and there’s no better way to savor the season than by exploring its garden tours and green spaces. From private garden walks in charming neighborhoods to the best public gardens in Metro Detroit open daily, the region offers a colorful array of family-friendly summer events for nature lovers. These tours and gardens aren’t just about pretty flowers – they’re community traditions, some decades old, that bring neighbors together and welcome visitors to experience the beauty of Metro Detroit’s neighborhoods. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or simply looking for fun things to do in Detroit this summer, this guide will walk you through the must-see Metro Detroit garden tours, both private and…

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