15 Best Attractions in Michigan For Your Bucket List

There are so many great attractions in Michigan to check out on your next Midwest trip.

The Great Lakes State has something for everyone no matter your interests.

Throughout the state, there are also a lot of museums on unique topics, historic buildings, and gardens that will make you feel as if you are in a different country.

With so many fun tourist activities in MI, you need to add this state to your bucket list! There are many chances for fantastic weekend getaways in Michigan.

Whether you are looking for a long vacation or just a short-day trip in Michigan, there is something on this list for you to enjoy!

Let’s dive into the best places to visit in Michigan!

15 Best Attractions in Michigan For Your Bucket List

Michigan History Center

One of the best things to do in Lansing is the Michigan History Center.

This thorough museum walks visitors through the complete history of the state from the native Anishinaabe people to the present time.

With five floors and over 25 permanent exhibits, there is so much to see here. There are maps, photographs, documents, artifacts, vintage cars, murals, and more.

The costumed interpreters help to bring the stories to life.

The gift shop is a great place to pick up a Michigan-themed souvenir.

If you love learning about local history when you travel, you will agree this is one of the top attractions in Michigan!

Where to Stay in Lansing:
Mid-Range Hotel: Hyatt House Lansing-University Area.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Isle Royale National Park

If you want to visit one of the best national parks in Michigan, catch a ferry or seaplane to the remote Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior.

This is a fantastic place for hiking, kayaking, photography, and even scuba diving!

Take a ranger-led tour to learn more about this slice of untouched nature. There is also a three-hour Keweenaw Waterway Cruise perfect for all ages.

Since the island is so undeveloped, it is a great place for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye open for moose, foxes, wolves, snakes, and many types of birds.

If you are looking for one of the most epic places for camping in Michigan, this is it! You can enjoy backcountry camping or stay in a cabin.

This national park is one of the best nature attractions in Michigan.

Detroit Institute of Arts

There are so many fun things to do in Detroit! One of the top sites for art lovers is the Detroit Institute of Arts.

With over 65,000 works in more than 100 galleries, there really is so much to see at this world-class museum. The pieces cover most of human history from the earliest civilizations to today.

There are many art styles to admire such as paintings, sculptures, drawings, and photographs, all from around the world and representing different cultures.

Grab something to eat or drink at Kresge Court or Café DIA. Don’t forget to check out the shop on your way out.

This museum is just one of many great attractions in Detroit.

Where to Stay in Detroit:

Luxury Hotel: The Godfrey Detroit, Curio Collection By Hilton.

Check Rates: Booking.com

The Henry Ford Complex Is One Of The Most Popular Attractions In Michigan

Just outside of Detroit in Dearborn is the Henry Ford, a 250-acre museum complex with three sites to explore.

This is the ideal place to spend an afternoon for anyone interested in American history and culture.

There are so many interesting things to do in Dearborn MI.

Start off at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation where you can walk through American history with over 26 million artifacts.

The giant collection includes the seat Abraham Lincoln was sitting in when he was killed, a test tube allegedly holding Thomas Edison’s last breath.

And artifacts from movements such as Civil Rights and Women’s Suffrage.

Other notable vehicles here include the bus Rosa Parks was arrested on in 1955, an Oscar Mayer Wienermobile, the first car built by Henry Ford in 1896.

And some presidential vehicles including the 1961 Lincoln Continental that John F. Kennedy was riding in when assassinated.

The Greenfield Village with seven historic districts is made of famous buildings brought from around the country.

You can see the Wright Brother’s bicycle shop, Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park laboratory, Henry Ford’s birthplace, and many other historic homes and buildings.

Take a ride in a real Model T, explore working farms, and watch artisan demonstrations. Grab something to eat at one of the restaurants or buy a treat at the Sir John Bennett Sweet Shop.

Lastly, take a Ford Rouge Factory Tour. In the truck plant, you can see how the Ford F-150 is assembled. There are five parts to the experience including a great vehicle gallery.

Clearly, this is one of the best places to visit in Michigan!

Where to Stay in Dearborn:
Luxury Hotel: The Henry, Autograph Collection. Check Rates: Booking.com

Michigan State Capitol Building

The Michigan State Capitol Building in Lansing is a must-see attraction for locals and visitors alike.

The grand building opened in 1879 as the state’s third capitol building. It stands 267 feet over a pretty lawn with flowers and trees.

The state capitol building is one of the best free attractions in Michigan with self-guided and guided tours offered throughout the week.

Admire the amazing hand-painted decorative art, learn about Michigan’s history, and even see the legislature meet for a session.

If you are interested in either history or architecture, this is one of the top Michigan landmarks for your visit.

Where to Stay in Lansing:
Mid-Range Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Lansing Downtown.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

For another of the best national parks in the Midwest, plan to spend time at the gorgeous Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore!

There are 35 miles of shoreline on the mainland plus North and South Manitou Islands to explore. These are some of the best islands in Michigan to explore.

If you want a day on the water, there are plenty of great beaches in Michigan but some of the best are found here! The untouched national lakeshore is just so pretty!

Have fun swimming, sunbathing, playing in the sand, kayaking, canoeing, and camping. There are also over 100 miles of hiking trails with amazing views.

If you are looking for one of the best things to do near Traverse City, you can come here to immerse yourself in nature!

If you want a fun beach day, this national park is one of the top Michigan tourist attractions for you!

Book Here: Traverse City: 6-Hour Tour of Sleeping Bear Dunes

Boyne Mountain Resort

Book a stay at Boyne Mountain Resort and enjoy amazing amenities as well as some top skiing in Michigan!

Located in Boyne Falls, this resort is one of the best places to stay in the state at any time of the year. There are always events and things to do here for the whole family.

This beautiful resort in Michigan is huge with many accommodations including lodges, villas, and cabins. No matter where you stay, though, you will be in the lap of luxury.

The property features a spa, salon, wellness center, outdoor pools, an indoor waterpark, golf courses, a zipline, hiking trails, bike rentals, and so much more!

You can also find jaw-dropping views from the SkyBridge Michigan, the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge. This is one of the top things to do during fall in Michigan!

Of course, in winter the top Michigan attractions are the ski slopes! There are 415 skiable acres with 63 downhill runs.

Whether you are new to skiing and snowboarding and want to take lessons or are ready to conquer the slopes, you will have an epic time here!

Other winter in Michigan activities include snow tubing, ice skating, and cross-country skiing.

A stay here is one of the most romantic getaways in Michigan but it also makes a fun family vacation!

Book Here: Boyne Mountain Resort

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

If you are planning a Michigan road trip, make sure to add the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to your list!

This unique landscape is a nature lover’s dream. The sandstone cliffs, arches, sand dunes, and waterfalls are sights to behold! You’ll see why this is one of the best things to do in the UP.

See it all on a boat cruise or kayak tour. Go swimming at one of the beaches and scuba dive at the Alger Underwater Preserve.

Don’t forget to check out the Au Sable Light Station which dates back to 1873. It is a 3-mile round-trip hike to the light. Climb to the top for awesome views of Lake Superior.

This is also one of the best places for camping in the Midwest! There are three pretty campgrounds to choose from.

Where to Stay Near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore:
Mid-Range Hotel: North Star Hotel Pictured Rocks.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Fisher Building

The Fisher Building in Detroit is a gorgeous example of Art Deco architecture. The 30-story skyscraper was completed in 1928 and was named a National Historic Landmark in 1989.

Even if you are not usually an architecture fanatic, you cannot help but admire the beautiful interior. There is a reason it is called “Detroit’s Largest Art Object.”

Inside, you will be amazed by the marble-filled facade; hand-painted, vaulted ceiling; mosaics; and bronze detailing. The building has been restored to keep everything in pristine condition.

You can take a free tour of the building to learn more about its history and art.

Here you will also find the Fisher Theatre which is one of the oldest live theaters in the city. Check upcoming events to book a ticket for plays, musicals, concerts, and other performances.

There are also many clothing boutiques, stores, cafes, and a salon in the Fisher Building.

Whether you are interested in architecture or just want to do some shopping, this historic building is one of the best attractions in Michigan!

Book Here: Detroit: Architectural Beauty and Hidden Gems Walking Tour

Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland

During Christmas in Michigan, you need to drop by Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth. This is the largest Christmas store in the world!

While it is open year-round, it is especially festive during December. The store opened in 1945 and sells everything you need to decorate for the season.

Browse thousands of trees, lights, ornaments, and decorations. Personalized and hand-painted ornaments make a special addition to your family tree.

All of Frankenmuth is full of holiday cheer during Christmastime with snow covering the Bavarian-style buildings and amazing light displays.

This is one of the cutest small towns in Michigan.

Where to Stay in Frankenmuth:
Mid-Range Hotel: Marv Herzog Hotel.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Mackinac Bridge Is One Of The Most Popular Attractions In Michigan

Known as the “Mighty Mac,” the Mackinac Bridge is an engineering marvel that connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan.

This is one of the must-see attractions in Michigan if you are traveling to the UP.

This is the longest suspension bridge in the Western Hemisphere at just under five miles. The bridge has been allowing people to travel over the Straits of Mackinac since 1957.

There is a small toll to cross the bridge, but it is the best way to travel between the two peninsulas. You will also love the views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.

If you want to photograph the bridge, there are parks on either side where you can find fantastic views.

The Mackinac Bridge connects the cities of St. Ignace and Mackinaw City which each have great things to do including museums and lighthouses in Michigan.

Where to Stay in St. Ignace:
Mid-Range Hotel: Breakers Resort – Lakeside.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

If you are looking for one of the best things to do in Grand Rapids, head to the 158-acre Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

This is one of the most beautiful places to go in Michigan. The site features both indoor and outdoor gardens, walking trails, a library, a cafe, an education center, and many amazing sculptures.

Some of the highlights include a traditional Japanese garden, a huge interactive children’s garden, Michigan’s Farm Garden, and a five-story tropical conservatory.

There are about 300 sculptures both inside and outside. Most are found in the 30-acre sculpture park. See pieces by Auguste Rodin, Edgar Degas, and other artists.

There is a permanent collection and rotating exhibits so you can find something different every time you visit.

In March and April, there is an amazing butterfly exhibit with up to 7,000 tropical butterflies. If you visit in the fall, you will love the colorful chrysanthemum displays and family activities.

There is also an amazing Christmas event celebrating cultures from around the world and showcasing over 300,000 dazzling Christmas lights in Michigan.

This is easily one of the most fun attractions in Michigan for nature and art lovers.

Where to Stay in Grand Rapids:
Luxury Hotel: Residence Inn by Marriott Grand Rapids Downtown.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Visit One Of The Outdoor Attractions In Michigan: Windmill Island Gardens

In the darling town of Holland, the Windmill Island Gardens will make you feel as if you have been transported to the Netherlands.

This Michigan attraction is picture-perfect with rows of colorful tulips and the authentic 125-foot-tall De Zwaan Windmill.

This windmill was brought over from the Netherlands in 1964 and still works to grind wheat into flour today. You can climb to the top to enjoy views of the garden.

You can also see a street organ and a hand-painted, antique carousel. There are a few Dutch-styled buildings, one of which is a great gift shop.

The best time to visit this garden is in spring when the 150,000 tulips are in full bloom. The gardens are open from mid-April through early October.

If you want to enjoy more Dutch heritage in Holland, you should check out Nelis’ Dutch Village, Veldheer Tulip Gardens, and the De Klomp Wooden Shoe & Delftware Factory.

Visit Holland during Tulip Time for one of the best events in Michigan! This Dutch heritage festival is one of the most fun things to do in Michigan!

Where to Stay in Holland:
Luxury Hotel: Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Motown Museum Is One Of The Cool Attractions In Michigan

If you want to learn about Detroit’s music history, you have to pay a visit to the Motown Museum.

The museum is found in the original headquarters and recording studio for Motown Records, which played an important part in African-American history.

The music label was founded in 1959 by Berry Gordy Jr. The studio was used from 1959 to 1972.

Known as Hitsville U.S.A., many great artists recorded here including The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, and the Jackson 5.

The museum is full of a ton of memorabilia, photographs, original instruments and recording equipment, costumes, and more.

If you are a fan of music, a tour here is one of the best activities in Michigan!

Where to Stay in Detroit:
Mid-Range Apartment: Your Cozy One Bedroom Midtown.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Fort Mackinac Is One Of The Best Attractions In Michigan

There are a ton of great things to do on Mackinac Island and one of the best attractions is Fort Mackinac, especially if you are interested in American war history.

The fort was built by the British in 1782 during the Revolutionary War. It was relinquished to the U.S. in 1796. It later played a role in the War of 1812 and was the site of the Battle of Mackinac Island.

Many of the best things to do in Michigan revolve around the state’s gorgeous nature. With 3,288 miles of shoreline and amazing national forests, there is plenty of outdoor recreation to enjoy.

Today, you can visit 14 restored buildings including the post headquarters, soldiers’ barracks, bathhouse, and hospital. There are many exhibits that teach visitors about the history of the fort.

You will love seeing historic demonstrations and people dressed in period clothing. One visitor each day also has the chance to fire a cannon.

After exploring the property, grab a bite to eat at the Tea Room which was established in 1918. Sit out on the balcony for amazing views of the island.

This is one of the best islands in the Great Lakes perfect for a romantic getaway! You will find some of the best attractions in Michigan here.

Where to Stay on Mackinac Island:
Luxury Hotel: Harbour View Inn.

Check Rates: Booking.com

Packing List When Visiting Attractions In Michigan

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Michigan, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.

A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when looking for Michigan attractions.

It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery.

This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone as I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos during your London activities.

You will want to bring your own refillable water bottle with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water when you want it.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc…. No matter the time of day or evening.

This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

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Hopefully, you have found some new unique attractions in Michigan for your next Midwest vacation! The Great Lake State has so much to offer for all types of travelers.

With some many fun places to go in Michigan, you need to plan a trip here.

Next, check out more places for hiking in Michigan!