Michigan

Places to Go:

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes: Located on Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-visit destination in Michigan. The park offers hiking trails, swimming beaches, and stunning views of the lake and dunes.
2. Mackinac Island: This small island in Lake Huron is famous for its horse-drawn carriages, Victorian architecture, and fudge shops. There are no cars allowed on the island, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustle of everyday life.
3. Traverse City: Located on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is known for its wineries, cherry orchards, and stunning scenery. The city hosts the National Cherry Festival every July, which is a must-visit for any cherry lover.
4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Located on Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers stunning views of cliffs, waterfalls, and sand dunes. Visitors can hike, kayak, or take a boat tour to see the best of the park.
5. Ann Arbor: This college town is home to the University of Michigan and offers a vibrant downtown area with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

Things to Do:

1. Go Camping: Michigan has plenty of state parks and campgrounds, offering the perfect opportunity to get back to nature. Some of the best places to camp include Sleeping Bear Dunes, Tahquamenon Falls, and Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
2. Visit a Winery: Michigan has become a top wine destination, with over 150 wineries across the state. Some of the best wineries to visit include Chateau Grand Traverse, Black Star Farms, and Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery.
3. Go Fishing: With over 11,000 inland lakes and miles of Great Lakes shoreline, Michigan is a great place for fishing. Some of the best places to fish include the Au Sable River, Lake St. Clair, and the Detroit River.
4. Attend a Festival: Michigan has plenty of festivals throughout the summer, offering a chance to experience local culture and cuisine. Some of the best festivals include the National Cherry Festival, the Ann Arbor Art Fair, and the Traverse City Film Festival.
5. Visit a Waterpark: Michigan has plenty of indoor and outdoor waterparks, offering fun for the whole family. Some of the best waterparks include Zehnder’s Splash Village, Great Wolf Lodge, and Michigan’s Adventure.

People to See:

1. Gordie Howe: Known as “Mr. Hockey,” Gordie Howe is a legend in the world of hockey. He spent most of his career playing for the Detroit Red Wings and is still revered by fans today.
2. Betty Ford: The wife of President Gerald Ford, Betty Ford was a pioneer in the fight against breast cancer and addiction. She founded the Betty Ford Center in California, which has helped countless people overcome addiction.
3. Motown Musicians: Detroit is the birthplace of Motown music, and many famous musicians got their start in the city. Some of the most famous Motown musicians include Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, and Diana Ross.
4. Ernest Hemingway: Although he was born in Illinois, Ernest Hemingway spent much of his childhood in northern Michigan. He later wrote about his experiences in the area in his memoir, “A Moveable Feast.”
5. Henry Ford: One of the most famous Americans of the 20th century and a true Michigan icon. He was born in a small farming community in southwestern Michigan and went on to become one of the wealthiest and most influential businessmen in the world.

Planning your next extended weekend getaway in Michigan is easy with so many amazing places to go, things to do, and people to see. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing retreat, Michigan has it all. With beautiful beaches, scenic parks, charming towns, and world-class attractions why not start planning your next Michigan adventure today? With so much to explore and discover, you’re sure to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.