7-Day Eastern Coast of Michigan Drive and Explore

Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Lansing

Morning: Arrive in Lansing and settle into your accommodations. Start your day with a visit to Michigan State Capitol, marveling at its architecture and history.

Afternoon: Explore the Michigan History Center to learn about Michigan's heritage, then enjoy shopping at local stores downtown.

Evening: Relax with dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll through Downtown Lansing.

Day 2: Lansing to Ann Arbor

Morning: Drive east to Ann Arbor, stopping at Matthaei Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush gardens and nature trails.

Afternoon: Visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art, then explore local shops and boutiques downtown.

Evening: Dine at a cozy restaurant and enjoy the vibrant campus atmosphere.

Day 3: Ann Arbor to Detroit

Morning: Head to Detroit, stopping en route at Detroit Botanical Garden for a peaceful morning walk.

Afternoon: Explore the The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village to immerse yourself in American history and innovation.

Evening: Experience Detroit’s lively dining scene downtown or along the riverfront.

Day 4: Detroit to Port Huron

Morning: Drive north toward Port Huron, stopping at Bayfront Park for scenic views of the river and lake.

Afternoon: Visit the Port Huron Museum to learn about local history and maritime heritage.

Evening: Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy dinner with a view of Lake Huron.

Day 5: Port Huron to Sarnia & Surroundings

Morning: Cross into Canada to Sarnia, exploring Canatara Park and its gardens.

Afternoon: Visit local shops or take a walk along the Sarnia waterfront promenade.

Evening: Return to Port Huron for dinner and relaxation.

Day 6: Port Huron to Flint & Shopping

Morning: Drive southwest to Flint, visiting Stepping Stones Falls for garden views and a scenic outdoor experience.

Afternoon: Spend time shopping at the Genesee Valley Center and visit the Flint Institute of Arts.

Evening: Enjoy local cuisine and unwind in Flint’s downtown area.

Day 7: Return & Departure

Morning: Head back to Lansing or your departure city, reflecting on your journey along Michigan’s eastern coast.

Afternoon and Evening: Complete travel arrangements, with optional last-minute shopping or sightseeing if time permits.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Michigan State Capitol - 1 hour - $0
• Michigan History Center - 2 hours - $0
• Matthaei Botanical Gardens - 2 hours - $10
• University of Michigan Museum of Art - 1.5 hours - $0
• Detroit Botanical Garden - 2 hours - $8
• Henry Ford Museum & Greenfield Village - 4 hours - $25
• Bayfront Park and Waterfront - 1 hour - Free
• Port Huron Museum - 1.5 hours - $10
• Canatara Park - 1 hour - Free
• Shopping at Genesee Valley Center - 2 hours - Varies
• Dinner and dining experiences - 7 nights - $350
• Total Estimated Cost: approximately $150

Tips

To extend your trip, consider adding visits to more remote gardens or historical sites along the coast. If you're short on time, focus on the highlights such as Detroit and Port Huron. Adjust the number of days based on your pace and interest in shopping or cultural activities.