Sun out, tunes on, windows down, snacks acquired—it’s time for a road trip.
Summer means getting out and exploring, and Michigan has more than enough opportunities for you to do just that. You could visit one of the many other West Michigan towns for a quick day trip, or rent a BnB for a mini vacation. Or pack a bag and make the journey up north, whether it’s to Traverse City, Petoskey or across the bridge.
Here are just a few of our ideas for where to travel in the pleasantly peninsular Mitten State.
Kalamazoo/Portage
Wherever you live in West Michigan, Kalamazoo is a relatively short drive away, without being too close to home (unless, of course, you live in Kalamazoo). This makes it the perfect spot for a day trip or quick vacation. There’s a thirst-quenching array of cocktail bars—such as Stamped Robin, Dabney & Co. and Green Door Distilling—as well as beloved breweries like Bell’s, One Well, Brewery Outré and Wax Wings, not to mention Territorial over in Battle Creek. Then you have top-tier eateries, like Principle, Brick + Brine and Roca on the higher end, with Cairo offering a taste of Egypt and Crow’s Nest serving up a legendary breakfast.
While you’re in town, you should make sure to take advantage of Kalamazoo’s first-class art scene. The Gilmore brings the best pianists in the world to town, while Barn Theatre recruits across the nation for acting talent—and its season runs through the summer, as does the local Farmers Alley Theatre (both of which are often praised by Revue’s own theater critic). Head to the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts for fascinating exhibitions like Ink Rhapsody: The Art of Lingnan Masters in Hong Kong. And if you’re seeking nature, the West Lake Nature Preserve, Bishop’s Bog Preserve and Eliason Nature Reserve are all nearby, and together offer hundreds of acres of beautiful scenery to enjoy, including rare plants and protected animal species. If you’ve ever wanted to see a flying squirrel in person, this might be your chance.
The Lakeshore
While we certainly don’t mean to suggest every town along Lake Michigan is the same or even similar, they are all within driving distance of each other and share one crucial thing in common: The beach.
Furthest south on our list, St. Joseph is a great place to start, thanks to its own vibrant arts scene, including the entirely free Krasl Art Center (home to over 41 sculptures) and its annual Art Fair on the Bluff (July 11-13 this year), along with the Box Factory for the Arts, a former factory now used as a multi-use arts facility.
If you’re a beer lover, head south on 196 for some brewery hopping at the fantastically fun Watermark Brewing, the boldly innovative Transient Artisan Ales, and the always iconic Greenbush Brewing. Or, you can head north to South Haven (home to 10 public beaches), which has its own brews, including South Haven Brewpub, Three Blondes Brewing and Harbor Light Brewery.
Then, you can head up to Holland for a town filled with charming history. Stroll the brick-paved sidewalks of the vibrant downtown, where tulip motifs and Dutch gables frame boutique shops, cozy cafés, and art galleries. Springtime visitors flock to the world-famous Tulip Time Festival, but Holland shines year-round with the 8th Street Shopping District and attractions like Nelis’ Dutch Village and Windmill Island Gardens, the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the U.S.. Not to mention the sandy stretches of Holland State Park, where Big Red Lighthouse offers a postcard-perfect sunset. For drinks, visit New Holland, Brewery 4 Two 4 and Obstacle No. 1.
Then there’s Grand Haven, a quintessential lake town, with the liveliest beach around, a boardwalk of tasty treats, and an iconic red lighthouse at the end of a long and picturesque pier, bordered by huge ships coming in and out of port. Each evening in summer, the city comes alive with the Musical Fountain’s dazzling water-and-light show choreographed to music. First-time visitor? Your bucket list includes Pronto Pups (worth the wait), Odd Side Ales, Grand Armory Brewing and the delightfully weird Unicorn Tavern.
Further north is the ever-blossoming Muskegon, which continues to develop its downtown with quality breweries like Unruly, Muskegon Brewing and Pigeon Hill—which also owns SOCIBOWL, a restaurant, indoor beer garden and duckpin bowling alley—along with, frankly, a lot of great cannabis. If you’re not looking to indulge any vices for some reason, edify yourself at the historic USS Silversides Submarine Museum, the newly expanded Muskegon Museum of Art, and the beautifully restored 1930s Frauenthal Center. Oh, and if you somehow have never visited Michigan’s Adventure, ignore everything else we said and go do that first.
Lansing
Lansing, our very own capital city, offers a blend of political history, cultural attractions, and college-town energy. Start your visit at the Michigan State Capitol, where you can take a free guided tour beneath the soaring cast-iron dome. Just a short drive away, the Michigan History Center and the Impression 5 Science Center (voted #1 children’s museum in the United States) offer engaging experiences for history buffs and families alike. On the east side, East Lansing hums with Spartan spirit thanks to Michigan State University—don’t miss a walk through the MSU Broad Art Museum, with its striking modern architecture, or a peaceful stroll through the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden.
Traverse City
Traverse City and its surrounding area, including the Leelanau and Olde Mission Peninsulas, could easily have its own issue, if not its own book. You’ll find dozens of fantastic wineries across the region, not to mention world-class breweries and cideries downtown, and so much more.
Start your visit at the historic downtown district, where you can stroll along Front Street and explore unique shops and galleries. Don’t miss a stop at the Dennos Museum Center, which features an impressive collection of Inuit art and rotating exhibitions. For a day outdoors, drive out to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore—climb the towering dunes, hike the scenic Empire Bluff Trail, or drive the breathtaking Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
When it’s time to eat, enjoy farm-to-table dining at The Cooks’ House, known for its seasonal menus highlighting local ingredients. For a casual but delicious bite, try Poppycocks for inventive sandwiches and craft cocktails. If you’re craving fresh seafood, Trattoria Stella inside the historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons offers fantastic Italian dishes with a local twist.
For a taste of local culture and events, time your trip to coincide with the National Cherry Festival in early July, a lively celebration packed with parades, cherry pies, and live music. If you prefer a quieter visit, explore the charming neighborhoods of Old Town or the Grand Traverse Commons, a repurposed 19th-century psychiatric hospital turned into shops, restaurants, and art studios. Outdoor adventurers can bike the TART Trails, kayak on the bay, or take a scenic cruise to experience the area’s natural beauty up close.
Alpena
Alpena is a hidden gem on the Sunrise Coast of Lake Huron, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventure. The Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, located just offshore, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. This sanctuary protects over 200 shipwrecks, and the Glass-Bottom Boat Tour provides a unique opportunity to view these historic wrecks without getting wet. Plus, Alpena is renowned for its stargazing opportunities, with several nearby parks designated as Dark Sky Preserves. Rockport, Thompson’s Harbor, and Negwegon State Parks offer pristine night skies, perfect for observing celestial wonders like the Northern Lights.
Beyond its natural attractions, the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history, featuring exhibits on local wildlife, maritime heritage, and Native American culture. For a taste of local cuisine, Hopside Brewery in downtown Alpena serves up delicious pizzas, burgers, and craft beers in a cozy setting. Visitors can also explore the town’s historic architecture, including the I.O.O.F. Centennial Building, a late Victorian structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Across the Bridge
Crossing the Mackinac means stepping into a world of rugged natural beauty and rich cultural heritage that feels delightfully different from the Lower Peninsula. When planning your trip, prepare for longer drives and fewer crowds—both part of the U.P.’s charm.
The U.P. offers breathtaking landscapes ranging from the iconic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore with its towering colorful cliffs and pristine beaches, to the dense forests and waterfalls around Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Don’t miss a visit to Copper Harbor at the tip of the Keweenaw Peninsula, where you can explore historic mining sites and rugged shorelines.
For us trolls (we live below the bridge, after all), embracing the slower pace and the outdoor-centric lifestyle of the U.P. is part of the experience. Accommodations often lean toward cozy cabins, rustic lodges, and charming bed-and-breakfast inns rather than large hotels, so book ahead, especially during summer and fall. The food scene celebrates local flavors: try fresh whitefish or lake trout at restaurants like The Vierling Restaurant & Marquette Harbor Brewery in Marquette, or indulge in pasties—hearty, meat-and-vegetable pastries that are a U.P. staple—at spots like Muldoons in Munising, Dobber’s in Escanaba or Lawry’s in Marquette. Outdoor activities abound with hiking, kayaking, and fishing in warmer months, and skiing or snowmobiling when winter arrives.
Staff Picks
Sarah Suydam
Visiting Austin Brothers Beer Company in Alpena is always a good choice. On our way up, we love specifically traveling all the way east to take the drive up along the Huron Shores Recreational Heritage Route, which offers scenic views of Lake Huron and all the coastal attractions and historic sites along the way. Remember to make a pit stop at Tony’s Tacos in Tawas City for fresh homemade Mexican food to-go—right on the waters of Shoreline Park.
Maggie Mutch
Manistee’s my favorite escape—long walks on Fifth Avenue Beach, rock hunting at Magoon Park, and a trip into town for shopping and tasty treats.
Kary Moening
My favorite drive is to the Ludington State Beach—absolutely gorgeous, white sand, green tall sand grass, and the bluest water!
Susan Smalley
I love the Tunnel of Trees. Take M-119 from Boyne Highlands to Mackinaw City and a stop at Legs Inn at Cross Village for some traditional Polish food. Yummy, Pierogies and Kielbasa. Riding this route on your bike is an adventure as well.
Kasie Smith
My favorite way to end the summer is a weekend up north in Lake Leelanau. There is nothing like driving around up north and landing in Leland!
