7-Day Eastern Michigan Coast Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Murray, KY to Ann Arbor, MI — Arrival & Exploration

Morning: Depart from Murray, KY early in the morning and begin your journey northward. Expect a scenic drive as you cross into Michigan.

Afternoon: Arrive in Ann Arbor and visit University of Michigan Campus and the Matthaei Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a casual lunch downtown.

Evening: Check into your hotel and explore Downtown Ann Arbor with its vibrant nightlife and local dining options.

Day 2: Ann Arbor to Flint — Historic and Cultural Sights

Morning: Drive to Flint, MI and visit the Flint Institute of Arts and The Whiting theater for some culture.

Afternoon: Explore the Genesee County Parks or the Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad for outdoor fun.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in downtown Flint and stay overnight locally.

Day 3: Flint to Port Huron — Lakeside Relaxation

Morning: Travel to Port Huron, located along Lake Huron's shoreline. Stroll the Blue Water Bridge and take in the river views.

Afternoon: Visit the Thomas Edison Depot Museum and walk along the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse.

Evening: Relax by the waterfront area with dinner overlooking the lake and stay overnight.

Day 4: Port Huron to Lexington — Lake Huron Beaches

Morning: Drive further north to Lexington, MI, known for its pristine beaches on Lake Huron.

Afternoon: Spend the day relaxing on Huron County Nature Center & Wilderness Arboretum and swim at Lakeside Beach.

Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a lakeside restaurant and overnight in Lexington.

Day 5: Lexington to Traverse City — Scenic Drive and City Exploration

Morning: Embark on a scenic drive along the shoreline to Traverse City. Enjoy the views and stop at scenic overlooks.

Afternoon: Explore Downtown Traverse City and visit Grand Traverse Commons and vineyards nearby.

Evening: Dine locally and relax in the charming city atmosphere overnight.

Day 6: Traverse City and Sleeping Bear Dunes

Morning: Head to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Hike and climb the dunes for stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Afternoon: Spend time on Glen Arbor beach and explore local shops.

Evening: Return to Traverse City for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 7: Traverse City to Murray, KY — Return Home

Morning: Begin your journey back south, stopping along the way for sightseeing or breaks as needed.

Afternoon: Continue driving, enjoying the scenery of Michigan and Indiana.

Evening: Arrive back in Murray, KY, ending your trip.

Time and Cost Estimates

• University of Michigan Campus & Matthaei Botanical Gardens: 3 hours, $0
• Flint Institute of Arts & Whiting Theater: 4 hours, $15
• Port Huron Blue Water Bridge & Thomas Edison Depot Museum: 3 hours, $10
• Lakeside Beaches & Huron County Nature Center: 4 hours, $0
• Scenic Drive & Vineyard Tours in Traverse City: 5 hours, $30
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: 6 hours, $0
• Food, Accommodations, Gas (Estimates): $800
• Total Estimated Cost: ~$855

Tips

If you have more time, consider extending your visit to include additional outdoor activities or exploring more towns along Lake Michigan. To shorten the trip, focus on key locations such as Traverse City and Lakeside Beach, reducing driving time and overnight stays.