Michigan is a state with a diversified geography and rich cultural history. The vibrant city of Detroit, well-known for its car sector, music culture, and sports teams, is located in the southeast. The Detroit Institute of Arts and the Motown Museum offer tours of the city’s extensive past, while Comerica Park and Ford Field are great places to watch sporting events.
For those seeking natural beauty, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula offers an abundance of stunning landscapes. From the crystal-clear waters of Lake Superior to the rocky cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the U.P. is a paradise for nature lovers. Tourists may go on hikes in the Porcupine Mountains’ woods, kayaking around the Apostle Islands, or camp in one of the area’s numerous state parks.
The state is home to some of the best beaches in the country, stretching for miles along Lake Michigan’s shore. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, located on the northwest coast of the lower peninsula, is a must-see for its towering dunes and breathtaking lake views.
With a distinct cuisine that honours the state’s rich cultural background, Michigan is also a foodie’s delight. Visitors can indulge in a Coney dog, a Detroit-style pizza, or sample local craft beer and wine at one of the state’s many breweries and wineries.
To help you make the most of your time in Michigan, we’ve compiled a bucket list of must-see and must-do experiences in the state.
Natural Attractions
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a natural wonderland with stunning vistas and abundant wildlife. The region’s star attraction is Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. Visitors can explore the lake’s pristine shores and crystal-clear waters and take a kayak, or canoe for an adventure.
Another must-see attraction in the Upper Peninsula is Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a stunning landscape of towering cliffs, colorful sandstone formations, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can hike along the park’s many trails, take a guided boat tour, or simply enjoy the stunning views from one of the many overlooks.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on the lower peninsula offers a different kind of natural beauty. The park’s towering dunes and sweeping vistas have earned it the title of “The Most Beautiful Place in America” by Good Morning America. Visitors can hike along the dunes, take a scenic drive along the park’s shoreline, or simply relax on one of the park’s many beaches.
Urban Attractions
Michigan’s urban attractions offer a glimpse into the state’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Detroit, in particular, has a vibrant history and a wealth of attractions for visitors to explore.
Sports fans will also find plenty to do in Detroit, with two major league sports teams calling the city home. Visitors can take in a game at Comerica Park, home of the Detroit Tigers, or Ford Field, home of the Detroit Lions.
In addition to sports, Detroit visitors can try their luck at online casinos. Since online casinos in Michigan state are legal, this has a growing online gambling market, with more than $42 million in revenue reported in the first full month of online gaming in January 2021. With the convenience of playing from home, visitors can enjoy the excitement of casino games while taking a break from exploring the city’s many attractions.
The Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the city’s most popular cultural attractions, featuring an impressive collection of over 65,000 works of art from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries, attend special events, and participate in educational programs.
The Motown Museum, located in the heart of Detroit, offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the legendary Motown record label. The museum features exhibits on the label’s founders, its many famous artists, and the cultural impact of Motown on American music.
Beaches and Water Activities
Michigan’s beaches and water activities allow visitors to cool off and relax in the sun. With miles of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan and the state’s many beaches, there is no shortage of places to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the water.
Michigan’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, with clear blue waters and soft sand. Visitors can enjoy a day at the beach, exploring the dunes and swimming in the lake. Famous beaches include Grand Haven State Park, Warren Dunes State Park, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
For those who prefer a more active water experience, Michigan’s waterways offer plenty of kayaking, paddle boarding, and other water sports opportunities. The Apostle Islands, located in Lake Superior, is a popular destination for kayaking and paddleboarding, offering stunning views of the lake and its many islands.
Michigan is also home to many pristine lakes, perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Visitors can dip in one of Michigan’s many inland lakes, such as Torch Lake or Higgins Lake, or explore the Great Lakes, including Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Michigan’s historical and cultural attractions offer visitors a chance to learn about the state’s rich heritage and vibrant artistic community. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums and galleries, there is no shortage of things to see and do.
Mackinac Island is one of Michigan’s most popular destinations, offering visitors a glimpse into the state’s rich history. The island is home to the iconic Mackinac Bridge, a Michigan landmark that spans the Straits of Mackinac and connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Visitors can explore the island’s many historic buildings and museums, take a horse-drawn carriage tour, or simply enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the auto industry and other aspects of American culture. The museum’s extensive collection includes automobiles, aviation artifacts, and other technological innovations. Visitors can also explore the museum’s exhibits, attend special events, and participate in educational programs.
Michigan is a state that caters to a diverse range of interests and age groups with its vast array of attractions and experiences. If you are an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast or enjoy exploring urban attractions, Michigan has something to offer everyone. The state’s Upper Peninsula showcases breathtaking natural beauty, while the vibrant city of Detroit provides a bustling urban atmosphere. With its unique blend of offerings, Michigan is an essential destination that should be on every traveller’s bucket list.