We love Michigan. From the hustle and bustle of the big cities to the peaceful quiet of Up North and the Upper Penninsula, there’s so much to do and see but here are a few activities every family should experience in the Great Lakes State. 

Dow Gardens & Whiting Forest (Midland)

Explore nature in mid Michigan at the Dow Gardens and take a walk along the nation’s longest canopy walk, 1,400 feet long, soaring up to 40 feet above the ground.

Michigan’s Adventure (Muskegon)

Plan a day or a weekend at Michigan’s largest amusement park. Ride roller coasters, go to the water park or slow things down at Funland Farm and don’t miss the newest addition – Camp Snoopy!

Tahquamenon Falls (Sault Ste Marie) 

Experience the beauty of nature in the UP. Michigan’s second-largest state park trails the Porcupine Mountains along the majestic Lake Superior.

Headlands Dark Sky Park (Mackinaw City)

Cuddle up on the sandy shore and see the stars (and satellites) like never before at one of the first Dark Sky Parks in the world! When in Mackinaw, be sure to visit Mackinac Island for fudge and a horse drawn carriage ride.

Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park (Grand Rapids)

Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Parks includes Michigan’s largest tropical conservatory; five indoor theme gardens; outdoor gardens, nature trails and children’s garden.

Sleeping Bear Dunes (Glen Arbor)

Shaped by glaciers thousands of years ago, the diverse terrain and ecology of the dunes is a sight to see. On the coast of Lake Michigan the park offers year round activities for families.

Torch Lake (Kalkaska County)

If you can’t swing a Caribbean vacation, take a road trip for the next best thing. Lounge on the shores of Michigan’s largest inland lake and enjoy the crystal clear waters.

Michigan State Capitol  (Lansing)

Take a tour of where laws have been made in Michigan since 1879 and explore the Capitol Building in the state’s capital.

The Henry Ford  (Dearborn)

Henry Ford is the most prominent Michigander and his legacy lives on at The Henry Ford Museum complex. Learn about the history of innovation at the museum, go back in time at Greenfield Village and see how the world is put on wheels during the Rouge Factory Tour.

Downtown Detroit

Detroit IS a destination! Home to 4 major league sports, world-class museums and entertainment venues, a beautiful and walkable riverfront, special events throughout the year and an ever changing skyline – Michigan’s largest city is a must-visit.

Save The Date

There are hundreds of festivals and special events in Michigan but here are a few you definitely want to experience.

• Tulip Time Festival (Holland): May 7 – 15
• Bavarian Festival (Frankenmuth): June 9 -12
• National Cherry Festival (Traverse City): July 2-9
• ArtPrize (Grand Rapids): September 16 – October 3
• America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (Detroit): Thursday, November 24

Photo credit: Flickr

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