12 Unforgettable Michigan Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year

No matter what the season, there’s always something to look forward to here in Michigan. After all, we’re surrounded by exciting opportunities and fun destinations on all sides. From natural attractions to man-made wonders, there’s no shortage of awesome destinations to visit here in the Great Lakes State, and you’ll surely want to start planning for your next great outing. Are you ready to explore the state? Whether it’s the middle of winter or the height of summertime, you’ll enjoy checking out the best day trips in Michigan – one for every single month of the year.

Hawk Island Park, 1601 E Cavanaugh Rd, Lansing, MI 48910, USA

Google Reviews/Alpesh Patel

If you’re a fan of winter weather and outdoor fun, you’ll have an absolute blast at Hawk Island Park. This sprawling spot features a 600-foot hill that’s perfect for snow tubing, so be sure to come ready for exhilaration. With several designated lanes and rental tubes available on-site, Hawk Island provides everything you need for a snowy January jaunt. It's one of the most fun things to do in Michigan in the winter.

Riley Park, 33113 Grand River Ave, Farmington, MI 48335, USA

Facebook/Riley Park Ice Rink

Is there anything more romantic than taking to the ice rink with your sweetheart by your side? When February rolls around, celebrate Valentine’s Day by venturing to Farmington, where you’ll find one of Michigan’s most charming rinks. Situated within Riley Park, this 60 by 80-foot space is illuminated by string lights and typically remains open through the end of the month. Whether you're here for a date night or an outing with the whole family, you'll be enamored by the Riley Park Ice Rink.

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Leland, MI 49654, USA

TripAdvisor/woofiedo

If you’re a sucker for history, charm, and friendly faces, there’s really no better place to be than Leland. When you check out the area’s Historic Fishtown, you’ll find a collection of shanties and other buildings that will instantly sweep you back in time. Since the 1850s, this spot has served as a hub for commercial fishing and has drawn in countless tourists in recent decades.

Check out this drone footage of Leland by JWaz Productions:

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Cranbrook House & Gardens, 380 Lone Pine Rd, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304, USA

Google Reviews/Neelima Tulaga

While Cranbrook House and Gardens is decidedly more popular in the summertime, we recommend stopping by during early spring to enjoy a quieter vibe and a genuine sense of serenity. In addition to 40 marvelous acres of outdoor space, Cranbrook also features a magnificent mansion and winding pathways throughout. This is one of the best Michigan day trips you can take.

Windmill Island, Holland, MI 49423, USA

TripAdvisor/Kate Illinois1

May signals the arrival of tulips in Holland, a West Michigan gem that prides itself on Dutch heritage and its annual Tulip Time Festival. One of the city’s most stunning attractions is Windmill Island, which is home to historically-inspired shops, endless rows of vibrant tulips, and a restored 250-year-old windmill called De Zwaan that came to Michigan from the Netherlands all the way back in 1964.

Wawatam Lighthouse, St Ignace, MI 49781, USA

TripAdvisor/PowerTrippers

If you’re planning a day trip to Mackinac Island, June is a fantastic time to schedule it - but we recommend stopping to explore Wawatam Lighthouse before hopping on a ferry across the Straits of Mackinac. Situated over the bridge in St. Ignace, this beacon on the Straits began its journey at a welcome center in Monroe before making its way to Wawatam Park on a truck.

Check out this Wawatam Lighthouse footage by Flashpacking America:

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Whiting Forest, 1809 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI 48640, USA

Google Reviews/Steve Herr

Looking to cool off during those hot July afternoons? You and your family will absolutely love the sprawling Canopy Walk at Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens, which extends among the trees for 1,400 feet. Situated 40 feet above the ground, the Canopy Walk gives way to lovely views of the surrounding area and is sure to enchant all who are lucky enough to experience it.

Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre, 9812 Honor Hwy, Honor, MI 49640, USA

Google Reviews/William Parmley

Round out the warm season with a classic summertime activity: a trip to the drive-in movie! If you’re searching for a unique outing that will add a dash of nostalgia to your August, head to the town of Honor for a show or two at the Cherry Bowl, which first opened its doors back in 1953.

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Besser Natural Area, Presque Isle, MI 49777, USA

Flickr/Brandon C.

September is a great time to start gearing up for the so-called spooky season, so kick things off with a visit to one of Michigan’s most fascinating little ghost towns. Situated within the Besser Natural Area, the ghost town of Bell boomed in the 1880s before being abandoned just 30 years later. Today, eager explorers can check out fragments of the once-bustling town, including a small cemetery and the remnants of a general store.

Agate Falls Scenic Site, M-28, Trout Creek, MI 49967, USA

Google Reviews/Kate Jacobs

When autumn colors start to bloom, there’s nothing better than exploring the great outdoors. Agate Falls is a perfect day trip destination for those who love admiring the many vibrant hues of the fall season while appreciating another one of Michigan’s marvels: the 40-foot waterfall itself. With convenient access and plenty of fresh air, a trip to this spot will make your autumn complete.

Frankenmuth, MI, USA

Flickr/Christopher Woodrich

It’s never too early to kick off your holiday shopping, so use the month of November to venture to the Bavarian-inspired town of Frankenmuth for a lovely outing. This charming community will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a European village with its unique architecture, festive atmosphere, and plethora of cozy shops. Before leaving town, snag a few gifts at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland.

Check out this video of Frankenmuth by Chris Harden:

Canyon Falls, L'Anse Township, MI 49946, USA

Google Reviews/Scott Lindenberg

December might not strike you as the ideal time for a natural adventure, but we’re inclined to disagree. After all, there’s something utterly magical about venturing to "the Grand Canyon of Michigan" when snow falls and ice appears on the water. When you visit Canyon Falls and Gorge in December, you’ll appreciate smaller crowds, a true winter wonderland, and some of the most unforgettable scenery in the state. Just don’t forget to wear your snow boots and bring along your camera!

Have you been lucky enough to embark on any of the best day trips in Michigan? Are there any other awesome attractions here in the Great Lakes State that should have been included on our list? We always love to hear from our readers, so let us know about any other Michigan day trips we should cover by leaving a Facebook comment or filling out our official nomination form. And before you set out on your journey, make sure you have packed everything you’ll need for your road trip.

Seeking outdoor options for your calendar? Check out these 12 marvelous hiking trails in Michigan.
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