Top Destinations for a Weekend Getaway in Michigan

Spend your weekend wandering the back roads of this serene farming locale. Climb the dunes at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore before visiting the Old Mission Peninsula. The vibrantly colored trees in the fall are irresistably alluring.

Enjoy the thrills of downhill skiing at Petoskey. The area boasts a number of snowboarding and ski runs guaranteed to give you a good winter's day out. After your excursion, retreat to one of the nearby resorts for fine dining and a variety of other relaxing amenities.

Satisfy your artsy side in culture-rich Grand Rapids. Public art displays, great food, and a host of galleries and museums set a vibrant, relaxing tone here. Experience the best of a diverse music scene at some of the numerous venues in town.

Visit this town for a history-themed weekend and delve into Michigan’s rich past. At the corner of Franklin and Second Streets is the birthplace of the Republican Party. There's many historical buildings, monuments, and green spaces such as Washington Park, dedicated to historical events like the Civil War.

To experience the best of sports and culture, look no further than the college town of Ann Arbor. The University of Michigan plays a large part in the local community in offering athletic events, theatre, musical events, and museums. The many restaurants, cafes, and shops evoke the youthful spirit of the area.

Whitefish Point is a hotbed for some of the nation’s largest gatherings of hawks and eagles. Join other vacationers in the migration count and watch as the birds follow the peninsula’s curving shoreline. The nightly owl banding sessions in the spring, summer, and fall are a sight to behold.

On a clear day, the Instagram-worthy views at the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park seem to last forever. Marvel at the sweeping views of Lake Superior, with the stunning sunsets here crowning it all.

If you want to experience natural beauty, history, and a bit of romance, check out Mackinac Island. Grand Island offers outdoor experiences like camping and mountain bike rides, while rustic Drummond Island features four-wheeling trails and a mix of local wildlife.

Visit the Keweenaw Peninsula and explore the storied history of the nation’s copper boom. Tour the underground depths, where miners once extracted the abundant deposits of iron and copper ore.

For a look at one of the Great Lakes' main industries, head to the locks in Sault Ste. Marie. Climb a spotting tower for panoramic views, or take a boat tour to get closer to the passing freighters that are a mainstay here.

Michigan’s numerous local beaches are a big draw, especially in the warmer months. Don't forget items like your swimsuits, beach towels, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses, and water bottles.

Pack comfortable footwear for strolling the streets of the communities you visit. Bring along hiking shoes for the numerous scenic hiking trails.

Dress in relaxed attire for activities such as hiking, wine tours, and zip-lining. A few pairs of versatile jeans, shorts, and T-shirts will come in handy, especially in the summer. Remember to have warmer layers such as waterproof coats for the colder months.

For a two-wheeled adventure, bring some helmets and other cycling apparel such as saddlebacks and frame bags.

You'll want to capture the unforgettable sights and moments of your Michigan vacation. A camera with plenty of memory space for films and photos is key, plus a charger to keep things running.