Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Budget-Friendly Family Road Trip in Michigan

Viewed by 107 travelers

Day 1: City Exploration in Detroit

Detroit, Michigan on May 24, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Detroit Water Ice Factory

Start your day with some delicious frozen treats at Detroit Water Ice Factory, offering a variety of flavors for a refreshing morning.
Drive from your accommodation to Detroit Water Ice Factory, approximately 15 minutes.
$5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Detroit Institute of Arts

Immerse yourself in art and culture at the Detroit Institute of Arts, housing a diverse collection of artworks including pieces by renowned artists.
Drive from Detroit Water Ice Factory to Detroit Institute of Arts, around 10 minutes.
$15, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Lafayette Coney Island

Enjoy a classic Detroit experience with a Coney dog at Lafayette Coney Island, a local favorite for delicious hot dogs.
Drive to Lafayette Coney Island, approximately 5 minutes from the museum.
$10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Belle Isle Park

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful Belle Isle Park, offering green spaces, gardens, and stunning views of the Detroit River.
Drive to Belle Isle Park, around 15 minutes from Lafayette Coney Island.
$0 (park entrance is free), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Slows Bar BQ

Indulge in some mouthwatering BBQ dishes at Slows Bar BQ, known for its flavorful meats and cozy atmosphere.
Drive to Slows Bar BQ, approximately 10 minutes from Belle Isle Park.
$15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Detroit

Day 2: Grand Rapids Adventure

Grand Rapids, Michigan on May 25, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Wolfgang's Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Wolfgang's Restaurant, offering delicious morning options to fuel your adventures.
Drive from your accommodation to Wolfgang's Restaurant, around 20 minutes.
$10, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Discover the beauty of nature and art at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, featuring stunning sculptures and serene garden landscapes.
Drive to the gardens, approximately 15 minutes from the restaurant.
$20, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Mitten Brewing Company

Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Mitten Brewing Company, known for its craft beers and tasty pizzas in a cozy setting.
Drive to the brewery, around 10 minutes from the gardens.
$15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Grand Rapids Public Museum

Immerse yourself in history and interactive exhibits at the Grand Rapids Public Museum, offering a fun learning experience for all ages.
Drive to the museum, approximately 5 minutes from the brewery.
$12, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at HopCat

Savor a variety of craft beers and delicious comfort food at HopCat, a popular spot for casual dining and relaxing with family.
Drive to HopCat, around 10 minutes from the museum.
$20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Grand Rapids

Day 3: Tranquil Day in Traverse City

Traverse City, Michigan on May 26, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe, known for its tasty omelets and cozy atmosphere.
Drive from your accommodation to The Omelette Shoppe, approximately 15 minutes.
$8, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Discover the natural beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with sandy beaches, scenic trails, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Drive to the national lakeshore, around 30 minutes from the restaurant.
$5, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at The Little Fleet

Enjoy a unique dining experience at The Little Fleet, a food truck hub offering a variety of delicious options for a casual lunch.
Drive to The Little Fleet, approximately 10 minutes from the national lakeshore.
$12, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Grand Traverse Commons

Explore the historic Grand Traverse Commons, home to shops, galleries, and restaurants in a picturesque setting perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Drive to Grand Traverse Commons, around 15 minutes from The Little Fleet.
$0 (free to explore), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Amical

End your day with a delightful dinner at Amical, offering a blend of European and American cuisine in a charming bistro ambiance.
Drive to Amical, approximately 10 minutes from Grand Traverse Commons.
$25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Traverse City
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Michigan

Week Trip — Kentucky & Indiana (departing from Michigan)
Packing List
Michigan Summer Trip with 2 Boys (4 Days)
Packing List
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Michigan Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go