3-Day Road Trip Itinerary: Explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Beyond

Day 1: Discover Kitch-iti-kipi

Manistique, Michigan on October 18, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Upper Crust

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Upper Crust, known for their mouth-watering crepes and fresh local coffee.
Head east toward Kitch-iti-kipi using US-2 E, a scenic route that showcases the beauty of the Upper Peninsula.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Kitch-iti-kipi

Explore Michigan’s largest natural spring, Kitch-iti-kipi, where you can take a glass-bottomed boat tour over the crystal-clear waters and learn about its fascinating ecosystem.
Drive approximately 30 minutes from The Upper Crust straight to Palms Book State Park, where Kitch-iti-kipi is located.
USD7, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fish Market

Enjoy a delightful seafood lunch at The Fish Market, famous for its fresh catch and picturesque water views.
Make a quick 15-minute drive back towards Manistique.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Drive to Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Prepare for a scenic 1-hour and 15-minute drive to one of Michigan’s most iconic state parks famous for its stunning waterfalls.
Head north on US-2 W and then take M-123 N for the last leg to the falls.
USD0, 1.25 hours

3:30PM

Explore Tahquamenon Falls

Wander through the lush park trails, capturing breathtaking views of the Upper and Lower Falls, and maybe even take a brief hike.
Follow the trails leading from the parking lot, which are well-marked.
USD5, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub

Dine on craft beers and hearty meals with a view of the river at the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub.
Located conveniently within the park, just a short walk from your last activity.
USD30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Check-in at a local hotel

Settle into your cozy accommodation nearby and rest for the night in preparation for a day at Pictured Rocks.
Find lodging in nearby Newberry for convenience.
USD100, 1 hour
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Day 2: Pictured Rocks Adventure

Munising, Michigan on October 19, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brownstone Inn

Fuel up for an exciting day ahead with a classic breakfast at The Brownstone Inn, with options like fluffy pancakes and local omelets.
Head directly from your hotel to the restaurant in Newberry.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Enjoy the picturesque ride approximately 1 hour to Munising, where excitement awaits in Pictured Rocks.
Take M-28 W for a beautiful drive to the national lakeshore.
USD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Pictured Rocks Cruises

Embark on a stunning boat cruise to view the dramatic cliffs and waterfalls that make Pictured Rocks famous.
Board the cruise from the Munising Wharf, near the visitor center.
USD45, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Fish Cafe

Recharge after your cruise with a wholesome lunch at The Fish Cafe, known for its fish tacos and fresh slate of daily specials.
Take a short walk back into Munising for lunch.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Pictured Rocks Visitor Center

Learn about the geology and history of the area at the Pictured Rocks Visitor Center, where exhibits will enrich your experience.
A quick 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from the restaurant.
USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive to the Mackinac Bridge

Travel toward the historic Mackinac Bridge, taking a scenic 1 hour and 30 minutes through Michigan's beautiful landscapes.
Head south on US-41 until reaching the bridge.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Walk the Mackinac Bridge

Experience this engineering marvel firsthand by walking across the bridge, taking in panoramic views of the Straits of Mackinac.
Access the bridge pedestrian walk from the viewing area at the bridge's start.
USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Legs Inn

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Legs Inn featuring Polish fare with an incredible view over Lake Michigan.
Take a short drive from the bridge area into Cross Village.
USD35, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Check into a local lodge

Settle in for the night at a lodge near the bridge, enjoying the light and atmosphere of the area.
Find lodging in nearby St. Ignace or Mackinaw City.
USD120, 1 hour
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Day 3: Sky Bridge and Departure

Mackinaw City, Michigan on October 20, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Pancake Chef

Start your final day with a sweet breakfast at The Pancake Chef, where you can indulge in pancakes and fresh fruit.
Drive a short distance to Mackinaw City.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Mackinac Sky Bridge

Head over to the Mackinac Sky Bridge for stunning aerial views of the surrounding region, a must-visit highlight before departure.
Take the short drive from your breakfast spot to the Sky Bridge entrance.
USD10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Fort Michilimackinac

Dive into historical adventures at Fort Michilimackinac, where you can learn about the heritage of the area through guided tours and demonstrations.
A quick 10-minute drive from the Sky Bridge.
USD12, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Doud's Market

Grab a delightful lunch at Doud's Market, famous for sandwiches and fresh local produce for food on the go.
Just minutes away in Mackinaw City.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Take one last stroll along the shoreline

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shores of Mackinaw City to soak in the fresh air and farewell views of the Great Lakes.
Access the waterfront area directly from the city center.
USD0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Begin your journey home

Reflect on your incredible journey as you head back home or to your next destination after an enchanting experience in Michigan.
Plan your route back, taking M-119 or I-75.
USD0, Variable
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