3-Day Road Trip Itinerary for Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan

Day 1: Explore Marquette

Marquette, MI on October 18, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Donkers

Start your day at this local favorite known for its homemade breakfast items and nostalgic decor.
Located downtown Marquette, easily walkable.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Presque Isle Park

Enjoy the stunning views of Lake Superior and the beautiful fall colors during a morning stroll through this picturesque park.
A short 10-minute drive from Donkers.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Oredock Brewing Company

Savor a delicious sandwich and craft beer while overlooking the marina.
Only a 5-minute drive from Presque Isle Park.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Maritime Museum

Dive into the maritime history of the Great Lakes and learn about shipwrecks and maritime trade.
Just a 3-minute drive from the brewery.
USD10, 1 hour

2:45PM

Hiking at Sugarloaf Mountain

Take a short hike to the top for panoramic views over the splendid autumn landscape.
A 15-minute drive from the museum.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive to Munising

Hit the road to Munising as the evening descends, preparing for Pictured Rocks adventures.
Approximately a 1-hour drive from Sugarloaf Mountain.
USD10 (gas), 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at East Channel Brewing Company

Relax with dinner featuring local seafood and artisan pizzas representative of the area's flavors.
Located in Munising, just minutes from your accommodation.
USD25, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check into Hotel

Settle in at your hotel in Munising, preparing for tomorrow's excursions.
Your pre-booked hotel within Munising.
USD150 (average nightly rate), 1 hour
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Day 2: Pictured Rocks Adventure

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI on October 19, 2024

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a day of adventure.
Onsite at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Paddleboarding at Pictured Rocks

Experience the stunning cliffs up close by paddleboarding along the shoreline, providing a unique perspective of the vibrant rock formations.
Meet at the rental station located at the national lakeshore entrance.
USD40 (rental), 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Hiking the Lakeshore Trail

Hike along the scenic Lakeshore Trail and capture breathtaking views of the multicolored cliffs and waves lapping against the rocks.
Access the trail from the paddleboarding location.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sandpoint Grill

Refuel with hearty burgers and salads, while enjoying views of the lake.
A short drive away from the trailhead.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Boat Tour of Pictured Rocks

Embark on an unforgettable boat tour to witness the magnificent formations and waterfalls from the water's perspective.
Board at the designated tour dock in Munising.
USD45, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel to freshen up after a day of exploration.
Return to your accommodation, a 10-minute drive.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Brownstone Inn

Enjoy a local-cooked dinner featuring specialties that highlight the region’s flavors.
Located conveniently close to where you're staying.
USD30, 2 hours

9:00PM

Evening at the Hotel

Wrap up your evening relaxing at your hotel or take a stroll along the lakeshore under the stars.
Onsite or along Munising’s lakeshore.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 3: Explore Munising

Munising, MI on October 20, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Doghouse

Start the day with a delicious breakfast burrito or a classic omelet at this beloved local diner.
Within Munising, a short drive from the hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Munising Falls

Admire the picturesque Munising Falls and take a brief hike in the surrounding area to enjoy more natural beauty.
Just a 5-minute drive from the diner.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Chocolate Cove

Satisfy your sweet tooth at this charming shop offering a variety of locally made chocolates and candies.
5-minute drive from the falls.
USD15 (average spending), 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Alger Falls

Next, travel to the nearby Alger Falls for more stunning views and a quick photo opportunity.
A 15-minute drive from the chocolate store.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fish Basket

Enjoy freshly caught fish and chips or a crispy fish taco at this casual joint known for its local seafood.
A quick 20-minute drive back to Munising.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Final Visit to Pictured Rocks

Take a last stroll along a trail of your choice, embracing the natural beauty of this mesmerizing area one more time.
Back to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, a 15-minute drive.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive Back to Marquette

Begin your journey back to Marquette to return your rental car and conclude your road trip.
Approximately a 1-hour drive.
USD10 (gas), 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Landmark Inn

Savor your final dinner at this historic hotel serving exquisite cuisine reminiscent of Marquette's charm.
Located in downtown Marquette.
USD35, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Departure or Overnight Stay

Decide to either catch your flight home or stay one more night enjoying Marquette.
Based on your travel arrangements.
Varies, Varies
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