10 Amazing Places You Can Go On One Tank Of Gas In Michigan

You love a good road trip, but let’s face it, the cost of gas can be a deterrent from embarking on an adventure. We get it. In fact, that’s precisely why we’ve mapped out the perfect road trip – one that can be completed on one tank of gas. And, yes, it is a conglomerate of the very best road trips in Michigan, so this trip will offer you a taste of local life.

This Michigan day trip takes us through northern Michigan all the way to the Thumb (or vice versa). So if you live Up North or near Lake Huron or you’re trying to maximize your weekend travel plans, this may be the trip for you. This day trip in Michgan takes about eight hours to complete and spans 399 miles. We did some digging and learned that the average tank of fuel will take you between 300-500 miles before hitting empty. Of course that depends on the model of your car. SUVs and trucks will guzzle gas, while compacts or hybrids will get you further for less. Take a look at our Google Maps itinerary.

Let’s get started!

Google Maps

Flickr/Bailwick Studios

Whether you're taking a stroll by the bay, dining at one of the award-winning eateries, or checking out the nearby vineyards, Traverse City has you covered.

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Charlevoix, MI 49720, USA

John Menard/Flickr

Lots of family-friendly recreation opportunities in Charlevoix, mostly involving the water.

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Petoskey, MI 49770, USA

Michigan Municipal League/Flickr

With quaint shops, a small town atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and access to Walloon Lake, Petosky makes for a great stop.

Mackinaw City, MI 49701, USA

James Marvin Phelps/Flickr

Here is the last stop before you cross the Mighty Mac and head into Yooper territory.

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Rogers City, MI 49779, USA

Fotos By B/Flickr

Dubbed "Nautical City," you'll appreciate Rogers City for its many parks and trails near the water.

Alpena, MI 49707, USA

cmh2315fl/Flickr

Plan your trip just right to make it to Alpena at night, when you can view the galaxy at Rockport State Recreation Area - an official dark sky preserve.

Tawas City, MI 48763, USA

adaenn/Flickr

The Tawas Bay area is an outdoors person's paradise: perfect for hiking, kayaking, catching lake fish. And the city of Tawas itself has that charming, old time feel.

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Bay City, MI, USA

renny67/Flickr

You'll love downtown here. It's filled with cute little shops and eateries, and it's situated right next to the river.

Caseville, MI 48725, USA

Redi-Rock International/Flickr

Known for its sandy beach and marina, you'll also love the Cheeseburger Days festival every summer.

Port Austin, MI 48467, USA

Derek A Young/Flickr

And we finally come to Port Austin, which rests right on the Thumb... Another lakeside known especially for its farmers market - one of the largest in the state.

Itching to hit the road yet? You should be, because these destinations make for the very best road trips in Michigan. What are you waiting for? Call up the buddies and make your plans for next weekend, or tag them in the comments to start planning your adventure now.

Can’t get enough of local adventure? We don’t blame you! if you’re on the hunt for more Michigan road trip ideas, tou’ll want to visit historic landmarks in Michigan. If you’re baffled on how to pack for a longer trip like this, be sure to check out our ultimate road trip packing guide.