4 Star Places To Visit in Michigan, United States (50)
4.0Birch Run Premium Outlets(594 reviews) - Still Lots of Stores Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Factory Outlets
Located 90 miles north of Detroit and just minutes from Frankenmuth, Birch Run Premium Outlets is the largest outlet center in the Midwest, attracting shoppers from all over Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and southwestern Ontario, Canada. Birch Run Premium Outlets is located off I-75, the main artery to Northern Michigan, which serves as a popular destination for resorts, camping, fishing, wine tasting, golf courses and more. Local Shop & Stay packages are available.See more..
4.5Dow Gardens(573 reviews) - Canopy Walk: a hidden gem! Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Gardens
Originally established in 1899, as a home for Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow and family, the 110-acre Dow Gardens now welcomes thousands of guests per year. Visitors are invited to leave the pathway and explore the uniquely-designed landscape, take a tour of the historic Pines Home, participate in one of many hands-on educational programs, and discover beautiful art and music in a relaxed setting. Dow Gardens is comprised of an Estate Garden, Exploration Garden, and Whiting Forest, which is home to the nation’s longest forest canopy walk.See more..
4.5Warren Dunes State Park(568 reviews) - Florida beach vibes near Chicago area. State Parks
Quick spontaneous 3 hr road trip from central IL to relax on a beach. $10 to get in to the park. Hung out on the beach watching the waves roll in on a beautiful hot summer day. It wasn't too packed which made it comfortable. Plenty of parking available. Food truck on site or bring your own cooler. I climbed a 260 foot dune, felt good to reach the top and admire the view from above. You can also hike in the woods which is a whole different vibe than the beach front.See more..
4.0GM Renaissance Center(561 reviews) - An amazing array of Tall Buildings ! Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers
Multi-towered skyscraper is the tallest building in Detroit that features an observation tower on the 72nd floor.See more..
4.5Petoskey State Park(560 reviews) - Beautiful Spot for Petoskey and Charlevoix stone searching! State Parks
This place is so beautiful there really are no words to describe it. From the stones piled up along the shoreline, to the white pines in the background, to the icy-cold waters of Lake Michigan, it really is such a wonderful place. We spent most of our time looking for Charlevoix and Petoskey stones. You could spend hours and hours looking for stones here. We would recommend that you bring some shoes for walking on the stones because doing it barefoot hurts! Crocs or flip-flops would be best! We ended up coming back a second time during our stay in Petoskey because this state park was so beautiful! On our second day, we had a picnic along the lake shore on a sand dune and even though it was a colder fall day, we still thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Please be sure to stop here and soak up all the beauty!See more..
4.5The Great Escape Room(550 reviews) - Fun 16th Bday party Wednesday: 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
The Great Escape Room is a real-life room escape game in Downtown Royal Oak. The adventure is based on online escape games in which you are locked in a room with a series of clues and puzzles that must be solved in order to exit the room. It is part scavenger hunt and part puzzle game. Teams of up to 10 will work together to solve the puzzles and escape within a 60 minute time limit.See more..
4.5Binder Park Zoo(545 reviews) - Very unique and fun! Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Zoos
I enjoyed this trip a lot. some of the food stands are overpriced, but the zoo is very interactive and fun! we did go near the colder months, so not many animals came out. will definitely come back in the summer though!See more..
I was trying to find a place to review the city beach specifically, but I can not, so I will leave my review here. We, like so many others, skipped the State Park, and drove just a minute down, and visited Grand Haven City Beach. There was plenty of parking and the beach was full, but not crowded. The beach is literally a few steps from the parking area. Aside from the frigid water, you would think you were in Florida. It was beautiful. The beach was really clean and a great place to spend a few hours. We were ready for a beach vacation and a six-hour drive sounded a lot more appealing than a fourteen-hour drive, so Michigan it was! We packed our cooler and some towels and camped out. We did get in the water a couple of times, but only briefly. We absolutely loved our trip to Grand Haven overall, so we will definitely keep it in mind for future trips!See more..
Detroit's crown jewel, the Fox Theatre, has played host to some of the biggest names in show business and holds its ground as one of the top-grossing theaters of its size in the nation.See more..
I was looking for a different spot for my wife to photograph the straits and the Bridge. This is a beautiful park with amazing views. There is some historical markers there also. It was February and 11 degrees but still beautiful. I can only imagine what it would look like in the summer.See more..
4.5Wagner Falls(516 reviews) - Don’t miss this gem Waterfalls
Loved this place! Such a beautiful atmosphere and water fall. The walk down is so peaceful and beautiful. The woods around the boardwalk have a variety of colorful mushrooms to photograph, if you keep a sharp eye for them. One of our favorite places.See more..
4.5Somerset Collection(503 reviews) - Lovely shopping Mall, but devoid of shoppers Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Shopping Malls
Huge, but dying, shopping mall. The Somerset Collection Mall is split in two with high end stores on one side, then across the bridge the stores for the rest of us. The Mall was not busy and the shop prices were generally high. Visited the food court for lunch, but the standard of the food was low (most of it got binned).See more..
4.5Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room(500 reviews) - Gorgeous views, oh, and the wine is good, too :) Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards
Chateau Chantal is a unique development that combines a winery, vineyards, bed and breakfast, residence, six private home sites, and winding roads, all of which combine to create an experience in Northern Hospitality. The 65 acre site sits high atop a ridge 12 miles north of Traverse City, Michigan on the beautiful and historic Old Mission Peninsula. Chateau Chantal crafts many styles of wine, allowing the grape to dictate the style. The location’s unparalleled views and outstanding staff play host to B&B activities, cooking classes, wine education opportunities, Tapas Tours, conferences and meetings, small weddings, and friendly regional wine events.See more..
4.5Eastern Market(492 reviews) - First time here in over 50 years and was pleasantly rewarded for the trip back in time Wednesday: Flea & Street Markets
We shepherd Eastern Market's rich history to nourish a healthier, wealthier, and happier Detroit. Since it began in the 1800s, Eastern Market has gradually become a cornerstone, nourishing its residents by providing fresh and nutritious food throughout Southeastern Michigan. In more recent years, Eastern Market Partnership has built an infrastructure around the market to support our unwavering mission to enrich Detroit--nutritionally, culturally and economically. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, our goal is to maintain Eastern Market's: * Authenticity * Development Equity * Connectivity * Density * DiversitySee more..
4.0Detroit Downtown(480 reviews) - Detroit in all is glory past, present, and future! Neighborhoods
4.5Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum(478 reviews) - Best Children's Museum! Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Children's Museums
Everyone gets creative in this interactive science and technology museum, featuring engaging exhibits in subjects like psychology, the media and health.See more..
I've attended Piston and Red Wing events here and have been impressed with the ease of access, security, event staff etc. Everyone has been helpful and happy. The pregame and half time entertainment at the Pistons game has been excellent. I have only done the Gondola seating and highly recommend it if you are not scared of heights. Just make sure you sit in row 1 of not row 2. Row 1 is right on the glass to view down. Row 2 are high top seats which are more comfortable but if someone is in row 1 in front of you you will have an obstructed view. Food and beverage choices are vast but expensive. Bathrooms are abundant and clean. I suggest pre-booking parking to save because it can get pricey the closer you park to the LCA. Free Xfinity WiFi (just enter a bogus email). I have and will return.See more..
We came here to see the sun set on a warm July evening and were not disappointed. The sun going into Lake Michigan created gorgeous colors. The walk to the lighthouse was newly redone in early 2020 and was safe, clean, and lined with big rocks to protect you from the waves. We were able to take great pictures of the setting sun. On the beach, the bathrooms were clean and private, a perfect place to relieve yourself during COVID-19.See more..
4.0Grand Haven Musical Fountain(464 reviews) - A wonderful attraction for the whole family! Wednesday: 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Fountains
An enchanting spectacle of water and lights creatively synchronized to a wide variety of well-known musical selections. Each 25-30 minute show is free and plays nightly at dark from Memorial Day through Labor Day as well as Fridays and Saturdays in May and September.See more..
The Van Andel Arena is a 10,834-seat multi-purpose arena situated in the Heartside district of Grand Rapids, Michigan. After a $75 million construction effort, the arena opened on October 8, 1996 and since has attracted over five million patrons. It is home to the popular Grand Rapids Griffins ice hockey team, the American Hockey League affiliate of the NHL's Detroit Red Wings.As a concert venue, the Van Andel Arena seats about 12,858 for end-stage shows, and 13,184 for center-stage shows. The arena floor measures 85 by 220 feet (26 × 67 m). The arena features 9,886 permanent seats and 44 luxury suites, with the 16 luxury suites in the upper bowl seating 20, and the lower 24 bowls seating 15, and the others at 18. There are approximately 1,298 retractable seats at Van Andel Arena.See more..
4.5Fishtown(453 reviews) - Picturesque village with good restaurants and shopping Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
Fishtown Preservation Society is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization devoted to preserving and protecting the historic fishing village of Leland, Michigan. For more information on what we do, who we are, and our mission, please visit our website or check in on Facebook.See more..
4.5Detroit Historical Museum(451 reviews) - COVID-safe, worth the visit! Wednesday: Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums
The Motor City Exhibition, where visitors see how a Cadillac is assembled, is just one of the many interesting displays at this museum dedicated to telling the story of Detroit.See more..
4.5Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery(443 reviews) - Second and third visit were much more positive Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards
Welcome to Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery. Spanning 155 acres, Brys Estate is the largest contiguous winery estate on Old Mission Peninsula. Opened in 2005, we're a family-run business that crafts wines from our 53,000 vines planted less than a mile from Lake Michigan. The Brys experience includes an old-world tasting room, unique Upper Deck, and a barn-turned-guest house that offers panoramic views of the bay and Old Mission Peninsula.See more..
Lovely beach! Visited in late July. Water was perfect. Water and beach were clean. Sand is soft but it's a little rocky at shore, but soft again in water. Lifeguards seemed attentive; especially to people being in the neighboring harbor when they should not have. Everyone seemed to do a good job of social distancing by 6+feet because of pandemic. Restaurant at start of beach had plenty of food options, such as tacos, turkey sandwich, chips, hummus, walking taco, etc. Also, had Island Club style drinks; virgin pina colada, virgin strawberry daiquiri, etc. Parking lot available. Parking not very big so get there early. Rates were $5/3hrs or $12/all day. I believe there is additional parking in other areas though as I saw many people walking across bridge to beach.See more..
I came to Michigan to visit lighthouses. This one was on my list south of Ludginton. Since I visited Big Sable, my visit would not of been complete without seeing Little Sable. The beach is very nice here. The view is even better. I like the fact the lighthouse is now back to its original brick form. At one time it was a white lighthouse. There is an $8 fee per person to go up. Coupons/discounted passes can be found to lighten the cost. Either way your cash goes to a good cause. Enjoy the adventure, it was sure worth it for me!See more..
4.0Potter Park Zoo(428 reviews) - Small zoo but nice way to spend an afternoon Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Zoos
Visit more than 100 species of animals, many of which are endangered, including Black Rhinos, Siberian Tigers, Red Pandas and Snow Leopards.See more..
4.5Museum Ship Valley Camp(419 reviews) - A must do Museum when you are in the Soo! Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Aquariums
We are open Mid-May to Mid October! For more information click on the website link on Tripadvisor. Retired Great Lakes Freighter with over 100 exhibits on Shipping and Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes. Access into the Engine Room, walk the Upper Deck to see crew quarters and pilot house. 3 levels to tour with ramp system for easy access. Last tickets and entry an hour before closing.See more..
4.5Blue Water Bridge(417 reviews) - Unique twin international bridge Bridges
The Blue Water Bridge is simply stunning for the way it looks and the views across the St. Clair River when crossing the bridge. We crossed the bridge twice over the weekend when driving to and from Toronto during our one day Michigan trip. During our return we saw a ship passing under the bridge. We could not capture the views because there are signs on the bridge not to use one’s cellphone. Not sure if this covers cameras but we preferred to play safe and take no photographs. The parks and other tourist areas under the bridge must be very nice to visit but we left this for another time. Munir D.See more..
4.5Castle Farms(415 reviews) - A place to visit on bad weather day Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Castles
Open year round, Castle Farms is one of Northern Michigan's top historic attractions, as well as one of the Midwest's premier wedding venues. Visitors can stroll throughout the magnificent stone buildings dating back to 1918, and enjoy gorgeous gardens. A variety of museum quality collections featuring castles, antique toys, and royalty memorabilia from around the world are displayed throughout the buildings. The Castle's 1918 Museum showcases items from that time era, plus World War I memorabilia. Children delight in feeding the huge rainbow trout swimming in the Reflection Pond, playing a game of giant chess, or hide-and-seek with the fairies and gnomes dwelling in the Enchanted Forest. Our Self-Guided Tours offer Scavenger Hunt tours for children, too! Everyone loves The Castle's Garden Railroad; with more than 1/2 mile of track and 68 G-scale trains, it's one of the largest in the State. Listed on both the National and State Historic Registries, Castle Farms is a world-class historic property where old world charm and modern-day elegance enchant visitors of all ages.See more..
4.5Butler Street(413 reviews) - Day visit to Saugatuck Points of Interest & Landmarks
The main street of Saugatuck was named for the town's founder, William Gay Butler.See more..
4.5Quincy Mine(412 reviews) - Excellent and informative Quincy Mine tour Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Mines
Very interesting tour of the mine with Allie as a great guide. The tour takes about 90 minutes and costs $35 per person. Reservations are recommended but if you are flexible, you can try to make them in person. There are lots of interesting things on property that are not included in the tour but outside exhibits could use more descriptive signage. It is amazing to listen to how hard these miners worked for a tiny salary with no benefits. NOTE: Bring a light jacket as temperature in the mine is about 42°. The full tour involves going up and down a few short segments of stairs. The ground is often wet with puddles but mostly level. There is some dripping from the ceiling. There are brief episodes of loud noise and total darkness but the guide warns you in advance. You are required to wear a plastic miner’s helmet for the duration of the tour. The gift shop has water available and you are allowed to carry it with you.See more..
4.5Leonardo da Vinci's Horse(406 reviews) - A TRUE Masterpiece of SIZE & SPLENDOR ❤️ Monuments & Statues
The Renaissance mans plans to sculpt a 24-foot bronze horse were never realized until an American sculptor created two models based on da Vincis drawings, one of which graces the Frederik Meijer Gardens.See more..
4.5Bowers Harbor Vineyards(406 reviews) - Nice vineyard on the peninsula for wine tasting Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Wineries & Vineyards
We are a boutique winery located in Northern Michigan on picturesque Old Mission Peninsula. Our cool-climate viticulture experience coupled with our hard work proves to produce superior quality Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and our signature meritage blend the 2896, Langley. A visit to our quaint tasting room will afford you the opportunity to taste our sparkling wines, red wines, white wines, and view the quiet loveliness of Bowers Harbor. Wine tasting is comfortable and inviting at Bowers Harbor Vineyards; no need to be intimidated! Join us in the Bowers Harbor Tasting Room to try the latest Award-Winning wines! - Wine Tasting - Wine by the Glass. We highly recommend reservations.See more..
4.5Tunnel Park(405 reviews) - Nice park, must be fit to climb the dunes... it’s a workout! Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM Parks
Beautiful, clean park and beach. We enjoyed the beach, but the sand dune was a hike to get back up so pack light! Not recommended if you’re out of shape or asthmatic. The dune is quite steep to get back up. Beautiful views once you exit the tunnel, nice clean beach except there was a LOT of algae in the water. We went the 2nd week in July, 2020. Once we went back to our hotel and took our swimsuits off they were full of algae. Overall we had a great time at this park, and we went early, prior to 10am, so entrance fee was waived during that time.See more..
4.5Matthaei Botanical Gardens(400 reviews) - Beautiful and well organized! Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens
A 300-acre garden with a variety of outdoor displays and nature trails for exploring.See more..
4.5DTE Energy Music Theatre(399 reviews) - Awesome Venue! Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Theaters
Awesome concert venue for sure! Tailgating in the parking lot before the Chris Stapleton show was a blast. Paid $25 for VIP parking which shot us out on a private road and we were back to the Quality Inn in Waterford within minutes. The event staff and law enforcement were all friendly and seemed thankful to be back in the concert business. We were through security in 4 minutes. Typical $35 T-shirt merch was available everywhere. Tons of food and drink choices. We paid to sit under the roof, but there is lawn seating too. My only suggestion is to improve the WiFi or phone service as the Ticketmaster app had some issues. We will be back.See more..
4.5Big Sable Point Lighthouse(393 reviews) - Well Worth the Effort to Reach The Impressive Big Sable Lighthouse Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Lighthouses
Though it is a nearly 2 mile walk down a soft sand road, it is well worth the effort to see this impressive historic lighthouse on a beautiful stretch of Lake Michigan. Fortunately on the day we were there, there was an overcast sky and temps were in the low 70’s so it was a pleasant walk. There is no shade on the walk, so be aware that on a sunny, warm day it may become quite uncomfortable particularly if humidity is high. Bring water, a hat, and wear sunscreen! A few days in the summer there is a bus that ferries visitors back and forth so for those who cannot make a 2-mile trek it is worth checking into. The lighthouse is closed on Mondays.See more..
Helpful, friendly and knowledgeable staff. I was shopping in the Gaslight District with a friend and were so glad we went to Cutler’s. We ended up buying AllClad cookware and got a great product at a great price. My husband and I are building a new home in Venice, Florida and I’ll be sure to purchase kitchen and unique decor items from Cutler’s.See more..
4.0The Heidelberg Project(383 reviews) - Go To Detroit Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Art Galleries
Our Mission The Heidelberg Project (“HP”) is an outdoor art environment in the heart of an urban area and a Detroit based community organization with a mission to improve the lives of people and neighborhoods through art. Our Vision The theory of change for the Heidelberg Project begins with the belief that all citizens, from all cultures, have the right to grow and flourish in their communities. The HP believes that a community can re-develop and sustain itself, from the inside out, by embracing its diverse cultures and artistic attributes as the essential building blocks for a fulfilling and economically viable way of life. **download our award winning walking tour app on Itunes and Google Play!**See more..
4.5Black Star Farms(378 reviews) - Pleasant Wine Tasting - Nice Green Hiking Trail Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Wineries & Vineyards
Our unique one-of-a-kind destination is located only 12 miles north of Traverse City, MI on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula. The gorgeous 160-acre estate features vineyards, a luxury Inn, award-winning winery and tasting room, the seasonal Hearth & Vine Cafe, horses, farm animals, and hiking trails.See more..
4.0Tunnel of Trees - M119(374 reviews) - Bucket List Must - Tunnel of Trees Scenic Drives
Beautiful adventure driving thru the Tunnel of Trees just before dusk October 2, 2020. We drove from Cross Village to Spring Harbor. Colorful trees, sunset of Lake Michigan was spectacular, beautiful homes, wildlife grazing in the open fields - this was such a relaxing road trip. Highly recommend. I’m sure it’s something beautiful to experience in every season.See more..
4.5Saugatuck Dunes State Park(366 reviews) - Wonderful Time at the park.. State Parks • Cross-country Ski Areas
The park's 850 acres include a beach, dunes and cross-country ski trails.See more..
4.5Hoffmaster State Park(364 reviews) - Beautiful state park with easy access to Lake Michigan State Parks
Wonderful place to camp , relax, hike, and swim in the beautiful Lake Michigan. The sites I’m the front half are definitely better for bigger rigs. The bathrooms are well kept and there are private showers rather than being directly with the toilets. Beautiful hikes that overlook Lake Michigan, access to beach, nice nature center. Just needs a nice camp store that sells souvenirs. Great place to go to year after yearSee more..
4.5Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park(362 reviews) - So fun! Temporarily closed - Closed until May 10, 2023 Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites
Have an Adventure. Witness the power of the creek harnessed to cut timber into lumber at one of the oldest industrial sites on the Upper Great Lakes. On the Adventure Tour, explore the treetops on the Forest Canopy Bridge, soar like an eagle on the 425′ Eagle’s Flight Zip Line, and experience the layers of the forest on the five-story Treetop Discovery Tower. Afterward, take time to explore the natural beauty of Mill Creek State Park, which has more than three miles of groomed hiking trails. This is Mackinac.See more..
4.0Veldheer Tulip Garden(362 reviews) - Good Stop Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens
When in the area this should be on your list of places to see. During this time of year, it is a park in the field next to the store, and have a short walk to the store. They bring in folks by the (multiple) bus loads for shopping and visiting the fields. They were not pouring any molds, or carving any shoes, but they were burning names and dates on souvenir shoes and there was some painting going on. Know it is $15 per to walk to the tulip fields, and it may be a better experience than visiting the Windmill Island Gardens in town - more tulips, and less of a crowd and easier parking and access.See more..
Absolutely wonderful time; no complaints whatsoever. The ship's history is very interesting and is told using photos and info signs throughout. Everything is well maintained, direction signs are easy to follow, and the people were all very friendly. Depending on if you read everything, plan on about an hour on board (for ship geeks, like me, a little longer). The interior is utilitarian, not luxurious (it's an icebreaker, not a cruise ship), so don't expect palatial. Admission is $12 per adult for the self-guided tour, which is a bargain. Overall, a great experience!See more..
4.5Michigan State Capitol(346 reviews) - We have a beautiful State Capitol Government Buildings
Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1992, this building has served as Michigan's seat of state government since its completion in 1879.See more..
4.5St. Joseph Lighthouses(344 reviews) - Gorgeous day for a stroll on the north pier — leading out to both the Inner and Outer Lighthouses. Lighthouses
When the weather is good and you can safely walk out onto the North Channel Pier — you’ll be rewarded for a scenic panoramic view of Lake Michigan and up close images of the two lights that comprise the Saint Joseph Lighthouses. Silver Beach Park is nearby and of course the quaint community of downtown St. Joe with shops and eateries is within walking distance back up on the bluff. Sunsets are spectacular. And the lifestyle of a beachfront town like St.Joe is very addictive.See more..
4.5USS Silversides Submarine Museum(340 reviews) - A neat submarine plus ship you can tour!! Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Speciality Museums
My wife and I had visited the Wisconsin Maritime Museum across Lake Michigan earlier in a month so the opportunity came to visit another submarine from WWII. Unlike the one in Wisconsin this one is can be toured at your own pace without having to worry about people on top of you. There’s a nice Museum with exhibits inside that’s worth seeing before you check out the boats. The submarine is the same model as the one in Wisconsin so it will look familiar if you’ve done that one. The cutter ship adjacent to the submarine is nice to explore to though they are in the middle of restoring it. Be forewarned that in the event of rain the exit hatch may be closed so you will have to come out the way you came in. Not a big deal though!!See more..
Traveling from Detroit to Traverse City we just found this place on a trip advisor search. What a gem! We all enjoyed the village, the friendly people there and a lovely late afternoon train ride. Genesee County should be commended for a wonderful historic park! See more..