There’s plenty to be said for exploring newfound destinations and hidden gems here in the Great Lakes State, but no one can deny the delights of visiting some of Michigan’s most iconic locales. After all, we take great pride in our state’s famous attractions, and there’s a reason these areas draw in visitors year after year. Here are nine spots in Michigan that always keep us coming back for more.
1. Sleeping Bear Dunes
The natural beauty of Lake Michigan’s shoreline is on full display at Sleeping Bear Dunes, which never seem to lose their magic. No matter how many times you’ve driven along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive or gazed out upon the seemingly endless water, you’ll always find something new to love here.
2. Mackinac Island
Sure, it’s a bit overrun with tourists during the summer months, but that never stops us from appreciating our beloved car-free island. Horse-drawn carriages, lilacs in springtime, and a sense of unique history make this spot absolutely unforgettable. Not to mention that mouthwatering handmade fudge!
3. Tahquamenon Falls
It’s easy to be mesmerized by the beauty of Tahquamenon Falls. Every Michigander holds a special place in their heart for this one-of-a-kind destination, which seems to appear out of nowhere among forested splendor. No matter how long it’s been since your last journey, a visit to the falls is breathtaking.
4. Michigan’s Adventure
You don’t have to be a kid to enjoy the carnival-like atmosphere of this fun-filled Michigan amusement park. Whether you’re a huge fan of Shivering TImbers or a water park enthusiast, there’s so much to love and experience here. Load up on junk food and hit the rides - you’ll be elated in no time at all.
5. Comerica Park
We Michiganders sure do love our sports, and while many of us still long for the good old days of Tiger Stadium, we’ve still got plenty of appreciation for Comerica Park. After all, there’s no better way to spend a day than with a visit to the ballpark - and we’ll be true-blue Detroit Tigers fans until the day we die.
6. Holland State Park
Big Red Lighthouse is a highlight of this wonderful beach on Michigan’s west coast, and there’s something absolutely charming about spending an afternoon sunbathing along the shores of our beloved Big Lake. Chill out on the soft sand, enjoy a good book, or splash in the refreshing water. No matter how many hours you’ve spent "beaching it," you’ll never get tired of this spot and its amazing sunsets.
7. Michigan State Capitol Building
You likely visited this iconic Michigan destination during a childhood field trip, but it retains plenty of its impressive beauty today. As you gaze up at the rotunda, you’ll be overcome with a sense of history and pride for Michigan’s storied past. Politics aside, there’s just something mesmerizing about this building.
8. Kitch-iti-Kipi
Most of us long to escape from real life now and then, and Kitch-iti-Kipi offers an easy way to do just that. This unbelievably vibrant turquoise spring in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula feels like a fairy tale come true, and it’s easy to see why we keep coming back for more. When you’re searching for a way to connect with the delights of nature, this spot delivers without fail.
9. Frankenmuth
Okay, perhaps we’ve visited Bronner’s a few time too many, but the streets of downtown Frankenmuth simply exude charm. Maybe it’s the European-inspired atmosphere or maybe it’s those famous chicken dinners from Zehnder’s, but there’s something in the air that draws us back to Frankenmuth time and time again. Bavarian beauty is no joke!
Alright, Michiganders: we want to hear from you! Are there any places here in Michigan that you visit time and time again? Leave us a comment and tell us all about your favorite recycled destinations!
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