11 Unmissable Experiences You Must Have In Michigan Before Summer Is Over
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Sophie Boudreau
Author
We know this might be hard to believe, but summertime is nearly halfway through here in the Great Lakes State. Don’t let that deter you from embarking on new adventures, though — there’s still plenty of time to explore all that Michigan has to offer. Here are 11 of our picks for must-have summer experiences over the next month and a half.
If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, chances are good that you appreciate a beautiful hike through Michigan’s wilderness — and it’s impossible to deny the charm of a waterfall. Why not combine both of these passions in one exciting adventure? From Munising Falls to Tahquamenon, Michigan is home to plenty of waterfalls that can be easily accessed by foot. Check out some of our favorite such hikes by clicking here.
Sometimes it can be difficult to please each and every member of the family on a hot summer day. Never fear! Michigan has more than its fair share of places to explore that will appeal to grown-ups and little ones alike. Stroll through the Detroit Zoo, zoom around on rides at Michigan’s Adventure, or step back in time at Greenfield Village. For more ideas, click here.
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Nothing beats a day at the beach, and there’s something truly special about venturing to a quiet lakeside community that’s not entirely overrun with tourists. Here in Michigan, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that — and we recommend the lovely town of Onekama! When you’re searching for a quiet afternoon on the waterfront, this is just the spot for you. Find out more by checking out our feature article on this delightful area.
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Are you an art fanatic? Saugatuck is the ideal spot to spend a few hours on a hot summer afternoon. Stroll through the streets of this tiny town and check out everything from sculptures to murals to lovely gardens. The best part? You’re just minutes away from the shores of Lake Michigan, and the residents of this town are friendly to boot. To learn more about the wonders that await in Saugatuck, click here.
Have you ever wanted to see Michigan from up in the sky? You don’t have to board an airplane to catch a fascinating aerial view of the Great Lakes State. Venture to Crystal Mountain Resort in Thompsonville and check out their one-of-a-kind chairlift rides, which take visitors high above the scenery and end with fun-filled mountaintop concerts. What could be better? For dates and prices, click here.
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Cool waters, a chilly beverage in hand, and plenty of time to sit back and relax: sound like heaven? Well, heaven is within reach when you embark on a day of tubing down one of Michigan’s many lovely rivers. Whether you choose to rent a tube on the Chippewa River or the Platte, we promise that you’ll be treated to the ultimate in laid-back fun. For further suggestions, click here.
Perhaps you’ve never heard of this waterpark, but it will quickly become one of your favorite destinations. Venture to Lake St. Clair Metropark along the shores of — you guessed it — Lake St. Clair and check out their wonderful array of waterslides, pools, and splash pads. No matter what your age, you’ll have a blast cooling off at this exciting Michigan attraction. Want to learn more? Check out our previous feature on this park here.
If you’ve got a day or two to spare, there’s no better destination than Manistique. This gorgeous town has a little something for everyone, but its most famous draw is Kitch-iti-Kipi: a breathtaking natural spring that seems to glow endlessly with an otherworldly turquoise hue. Be sure to bring your camera along — there are countless photogenic spots to explore throughout this community. Want to find out more about Manistique? Check out our previous article by clicking here.
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Spend a summer day unwinding at Petoskey State Park, which stands as one of Michigan’s most unique and beautiful beaches. It’s here that you’ll find unparalleled opportunities to hunt for Petoskey stones — and there’s a childlike wonder in searching for these lovely naturally formed pieces. Regardless of your age, a day at this beach will leave you brimming with glee. Find out more by reading our previous article about Petoskey State Park.
Michigan has plenty of oddly named towns. From Paradise to Climax, there are all sorts of silly and one-of-a-kind monikers to discover throughout the Great Lakes State. One of our favorite destinations is Hell, which plays into its name in the most fun way possible. Grab dinner at a hell-themed restaurant, pose for silly photo-ops, or even take a kayaking trip through Hell itself — what’s not to love? For more on this ultra-unique Michigan destination, click here.
There’s something exceedingly romantic about a lighthouse, especially when it sits high above the water on a rugged bluff. Have you ever wondered what life might be like for a lighthouse keeper? Well, you’re in luck: venture to Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula for the chance to spend the night in one of these fascinating structures. The views will charm and the service is second-to-none. What’s not to love? Find out more here.
Tell us, Michiganders: which of your favorite summertime activities did we leave off our list? Do you have a summer 2017 bucket list to complete? We’d love to hear from you in the comment section below.
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