Michigan: Exploring the Great Lakes in 7 Days

  • Day 1: Warren Dunes
    2 hours (114 miles) from Chicago Midway International Airport

    Located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Warren Dunes State Park is home to towering sand dunes, gorgeous beaches, and scenic nature trails. Spend the day hiking, swimming, and soaking up the sun at this beautiful destination.

  • Day 2: Grand Rapids
    1 hour 45 minutes (107 miles) from Warren Dunes

    Grand Rapids is a vibrant city known for its lively downtown area, fantastic food scene, and excellent museums. Visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum to learn about the life of the 38th President of the United States and explore the Grand Rapids Public Museum to discover the history of the region.

  • Day 3: Sleeping Bear Dunes
    2 hours 30 minutes (135 miles) from Grand Rapids

    The Sleeping Bear Dunes are a must-see attraction in Michigan, featuring stunning views of Lake Michigan from atop towering sand dunes. Take the scenic drive along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive or hike the Empire Bluff Trail for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding countryside.

  • Day 4: Mackinac Island
    2 hours 45 minutes (154 miles) from Sleeping Bear Dunes

    A trip to Michigan isn't complete without a visit to the charming Mackinac Island. This car-free island is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture, stunning natural beauty, and famous fudge. Take a bike ride around the island or enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour before indulging in some delicious sweets.

  • Day 5: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
    4 hours (225 miles) from Mackinac Island

    The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore boasts some of the most stunning shoreline scenery Michigan has to offer. Take a hike along the Lakeshore Trail for views of towering sandstone cliffs, beautiful beaches, and sparkling blue waters. Don't miss the chance to take a boat tour to see the rocks from the water.

  • Day 6: Ann Arbor
    5 hours (270 miles) from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

    Ann Arbor is a charming college town that offers a great mix of culture, history, and entertainment. Visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art to see works by world-renowned artists, explore the city's diverse culinary scene, or catch a show at the historic Michigan Theater.

  • Day 7: Detroit
    45 minutes (43 miles) from Ann Arbor

    Finish your trip with a visit to the bustling city of Detroit. Explore the vibrant arts district in Midtown or take a tour of the iconic Henry Ford Museum to learn about the history and innovations of the automobile industry. Don't forget to indulge in some Detroit-style pizza before heading home.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Warren Dunes (1 day, free)
  • Grand Rapids (1 day, $50)
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes (1 day, $10)
  • Mackinac Island (1 day, $75)
  • Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (1 day, $20)
  • Ann Arbor (1 day, $30)
  • Detroit (1 day, $50)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $235

Transportation

You will need a car to explore all of these destinations in Michigan. Be sure to budget for gas and tolls, and factor in driving times between each location.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the Holland Tulip Festival, held annually in May. If you have less time, consider removing the visit to Grand Rapids or Ann Arbor.

Airports

The main airport in Michigan is the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), located in Romulus, Michigan, about 20 miles southwest of Detroit. Other airports include the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) in Grand Rapids and the Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) in Traverse City.

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