I have always loved visiting Michigan. Making a “must-see” list pushed me out of my comfort zone and took me to some of my favorite spots in the state. These places, ranging from well-known landmarks to secret gems, have helped me understand how beautiful and varied Michigan is.
Each person’s list will be different, but I think you should check out these seven places to see if they belong on yours.
The Ledges | Big Ledge
The sandstone rocks of The Ledges are unlike any other place in Michigan. Outdoor lovers should go there. Fitzgerald Park is great for families because it has a playground, bathrooms, and paths that are kept in good shape. Oak Park has beautiful views and is the best place to go rock climbing for a more natural experience.
Geologists are amazed by these sandstone layers that are more than 300 million years old. As you walk along the trails, you can really feel how they connect you to the natural past of Michigan.
It only takes a short drive to get to The Ledges from Lansing. The state capitol is close enough that your stay will be complete. In the morning, enjoy the beauty of these cliffs, and then in the afternoon, enjoy Lansing’s restaurants and sights. It’s the best way to have fun in both the outdoors and the city.
The garden at Fayette Historic State Park
The past and natural beauty of Fayette Historic State Park make it very interesting to visit. One of our favorite places is the overlook walk, which has a stunning view of the harbor and whole town.
After seeing everything from above, walking through the well-preserved buildings of this iron-smelting town from the 1800s is an interesting look into Michigan’s industrial past.
You should stop at this park if you’re going north or west in the Upper Peninsula. It’s worth your time to look around.
National Lakeshore of Pictured Rocks | Munising
Pictured Rocks is one of the most famous places in Michigan, and it’s easy to see why. It’s different on land and sea, which is why I’ve explored it both ways. On land, there are amazing hikes and views, and my personal best is Log Slide. The rivers in the area are just as beautiful.
You have to see Pictured Rocks from the water to fully appreciate its steep rocks and bright colors. It’s a totally different view that brings out the beauty of this unique place.
Empire State Park Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of the best things about Michigan, and I’m always amazed by it. These hikes are amazing. My personal favorites are Pyramid Point and Empire Bluff, which have stunning views of Lake Michigan.
At stop #9 on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, the view of Lake Michigan is unbeatable.
If you’re in Michigan, you have to go to this place, whether you want to do the famous dune walk or just take in the amazing views.
Dow Gardens and the Canopy Walk through Whiting Forest | Midland
Many people don’t know about this place, but it should be on everyone’s Michigan dream list. The Whiting Forest Canopy Walk is the longest in the country. It’s amazing to walk 40 feet above the forest floor.
Dow Gardens is just as amazing. It’s fun to visit all year long, thanks to programs like the butterfly show and seasonal displays. One of our favorites is this place, which is both calm and lively.
Turnip Rock | Austin
Discover a secret gem called Turnip Rock. You can only get there by boat, but the trip is well worth it. You’ll feel good about yourself and get a great view of the Thumb Coast when you kayak out to this unique rock creation.
I love this place very much because it inspired me to discover more of the Thumb area, where I fell in love with its fascinating history and beautiful scenery. It serves as a reminder of how one journey can lead to many more.
Park in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness | Ontonagon
The Porcupine Mountains, or “Porkies” as people love to call them, are full of beautiful nature and exciting things to do. I’ve been to this amazing park in both the summer and the fall, which are two of its most beautiful times of the year.
Everyone who comes to the park must see the Lake of the Clouds view. From that spot, you can see the forest and the water below in a way that takes your breath away. It’s easy to see why this is one of Michigan’s most famous sights.
Along with the well-known overlooks, the Union Mine Trail is one of my favorite Michigan walks. Along the Union River, this short but enjoyable hike takes you through peaceful forests and past mine sites in Michigan. Along the path, informative signs talk about the park’s history as a copper mine. These signs give you a look into the lives of the miners who worked here in the 1800s. It has just the right amount of natural beauty and historical background to make it a memorable experience.
The Porkies have something for everyone, whether you want to hike, camp, or just enjoy the views.
This is why I love living in Michigan
I learned to appreciate Lake Michigan’s beauty by growing up on it, but planning trips to see the rest of the state has led me to real gems I might not have found otherwise. Michigan never fails to amaze and move me, from the sandstone cliffs of The Ledges to the colorful beaches of Pictured Rocks.
I would love to hear about the places you think everyone should see in Michigan. That’s what makes exploring this state so fun: everyone has a different path.
7 Michigan Places Everyone Should Visit in Their Lifetime.
