Things To Do In Michigan
Michigan Vacation Guide
To many, things to do in Michigan might be defined by everything from cars from Detroit to college football rivalries, but anyone who has spent real time here knows it offers so much more. This is a state full of surprises, from the stunning shoreline of the Great Lakes to vibrant cities and charming small towns in between. If you’re ready to experience the hidden corners and unforgettable things to do in Michigan, the Midwest Association of Independent Inns is your go-to resource, offering local insight to destinations not just across Michigan, but across the entire Midwest Region.
It’s true that Michigan is known as the Great Lakes State, with the most freshwater coastline of any state in the country. But the water is just one piece of Michigan’s story. Outdoor enthusiasts will find things to do in Michigan in every season, whether it’s hiking through lush forests in summer, chasing fall colors along scenic byways, skiing in winter, or exploring spring wildflower trails. Add in an impressive arts scene, rich history, and a thriving culinary culture, and you’ll discover what we already know: There’s an endless list of exceptional things to do in Michigan year-round.
Whether you’re looking for big adventures or romantic weekends, Michigan has it all. Of course, a memorable getaway calls for memorable accommodations, and that’s where Michigan’s Bed and Breakfasts shine. Each stay at one of our member Bed and Breakfasts offers an authentic, welcoming experience that connects you to the local character and charm of this diverse state. Choose to travel with the Midwest Association of Independent Inns and let every trip to Michigan open the door to something extraordinary.
Things To Do In Michigan
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Outdoor Enthusiasts
Michigan is a true playground for outdoor lovers, with endless things to do. Spend your days biking along miles of scenic trails that weave through forests and charming small towns. Explore Michigan’s vast State Parks, and don’t miss National Parks like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Chasing waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula is a must, where hundreds of cascades create some of the most breathtaking backdrops in the Midwest.
Getting out on the water is one of the best things to do in Michigan. Head to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for a kayaking adventure along dramatic cliffs and colorful rock formations, or paddle the calm stretches of the Au Sable River. With its abundance of lakes and rivers, Michigan is also a dream for anglers, offering everything from trout and salmon to bass and walleye. Wherever you go, outdoor adventure is never far away in Michigan.
Food & Drink
As self-described gourmands, digging into the local culinary scene is one of our favorite things to do in Michigan. Michigan is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage and farm-fresh produce, which means every meal here is inspired by the land. From hearty breakfasts at our Inns to locally sourced dining experiences, food lovers will find plenty to savor.
The state also boasts a thriving brewery scene that has gained national recognition, from innovative breweries in Grand Rapids, often called Beer City USA, to long-established favorites that have shaped Michigan’s brewing legacy. If wine is more your style, you’ll be delighted to know there are more than 150 wineries across the state, with vineyards stretching from the shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas.
In between every outdoor adventure or city exploration, you’ll discover plenty of local flavors to enjoy. Michiganders take pride in their food culture, and we can’t wait to share it with you.
Arts & Culture
If the only thing you knew about Michigan was that it put the world on wheels with its automotive legacy, you’d be missing out on some of the best things to do in Michigan. Our state is rich with culture, history, and art, offering experiences that go far beyond the factory floor. Architecture fans can admire the mid-century brilliance of Alden B. Dow at his Home & Studio, while museum lovers will find world-class collections at the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Grand Rapids Art Museum, and smaller gems scattered across the state.
Beyond the galleries, Michigan’s cultural landscape shines through historic sites, vibrant music festivals, and innovative theater performances. Whether you’re exploring Motown’s roots in Detroit, stepping back in time at Greenfield Village, you’ll quickly see there’s no shortage of fantastic things to do in Michigan.
Best Time to Visit Michigan
There’s no right or wrong time of year to visit Michigan. With four seasons of engaging activities, the best time to visit Michigan is truly whenever you have the time. Each season brings its own unique activities and attractions, always with plenty of things to do in Michigan. If we had to choose just one season to highlight, though, fall stands out.
Fall in Michigan is spectacular, with vibrant color tours stretching through the Upper Peninsula, scenic drives along the Lake Michigan shoreline, and charming towns hosting apple orchards and harvest festivals. The crisp air makes it the perfect season to enjoy hiking, wine tasting, or a scenic weekend getaway surrounded by fiery fall foliage.
Spring and summer offer just as many unforgettable things to do in Michigan, with opportunities to enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, and biking across Michigan’s diverse landscapes. Summer days can get warm, making a refreshing swim in the Great Lakes or one of the state’s many inland lakes a must. It’s also the season of outdoor festivals, farmers’ markets, and long golden evenings by the water.
When winter arrives, Michigan transforms into a snowy playground. Skiing and snowboarding at Boyne Mountain or Crystal Mountain, cross-country skiing on groomed trails all over the state, snowmobiling through pine forests, or cozy evenings spent by the fire are all part of the season’s magic. With so many adventures waiting year-round, it’s easy to see why so many travelers come back to Michigan year after year.
Winter in Michigan
Spring in Michigan
Summer in Michigan
Fall in Michigan
Top Destination Cities in Michigan
It would be impossible to pick just one favorite thing to do in Michigan, just as it would be impossible to choose a single favorite city. Michigan is home to vibrant urban centers like Detroit and Grand Rapids, along with charming towns such as Holland, Marquette, and Petoskey, each offering its own unique character. No matter where you go, you’ll find something worth discovering.
That said, a few destinations in Michigan truly stand out and deserve a spot on your travel itinerary. From cultural hubs to lakeshore retreats, these cities and towns highlight the very best of what the state has to offer. Along the way, you’ll also find some of the top-rated Bed and Breakfasts in Michigan, giving you the perfect place to relax after your adventures.
Traverse City
Often called the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City is one of Michigan’s most popular vacation spots. It’s beloved for its wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, sandy Lake Michigan beaches, and vibrant food scene.
The city is also a gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is one of the most iconic things to do in Michigan and has been ranked among the most beautiful places in America. Summer in Traverse City is prime for water activities and festivals, while fall brings spectacular color tours and wine harvest events.
Mackinac Island
If you’re looking for old-world charm, there’s no better place to visit in Michigan than Mackinac Island. Step back in time on this charming island, where cars are replaced with horse-drawn carriages and bicycles. The island is renowned for its Victorian architecture, breathtaking views of Lake Huron, and historic landmarks such as Fort Mackinac.
Visitors also flock to taste the world-famous Mackinac Island fudge, stroll along the waterfront, and stay in charming inns and hotels. It’s a true bucket-list destination in Michigan, especially in summer and fall.
Saugatuck
Welcome to Saugatuck on Michigan’s Art Coast, one of the state’s most creative cities. Downtown Saugatuck is full of boutiques, art studios, and cozy cafés, making it perfect for a relaxed couple’s weekend.
Just outside town, Oval Beach has been named one of the best beaches in the country, offering wide sandy shores and beautiful views of Lake Michigan. Don’t miss Saugatuck Dunes State Park, where hiking trails lead through rolling dunes to quiet stretches of beach. Add in the local wineries, breweries, and excellent dining, and you have one of Michigan’s most beloved getaways.
Our Collection of the Best Hotels, Inns & Bed and Breakfasts in Michigan
With so many incredible destinations across Michigan, deciding where to go can feel like a challenge. The good news is that finding the best places to stay in Michigan is simple when you choose from our trusted network of Bed and Breakfasts. Each property in our collection is unique, yet they all share a commitment to exceptional hospitality that makes every stay memorable. From Detroit to Grand Rapids and Traverse City to Marquette, you’ll discover outstanding accommodations that elevate your Michigan getaway.
Our Bed and Breakfasts in Michigan span a wide variety of styles and experiences. You’ll find everything from chic urban retreats to cozy lakefront homes, historic estates to rustic cabins, working farmsteads to boutique inns perfect for weddings or special celebrations. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or even a solo business trip, our inns provide the ideal setting. As you plan your travels, seek the unique with us and book your stay at one of Michigan’s top-rated Bed and Breakfasts.
Looking Glass Beachfront Inn
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1100 South Harbor Drive
Grand Haven, Michigan 49417 - 616-842-7150
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Huron House Luxury Bed & Breakfast
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3124 U.S. 23
Oscoda, Michigan 48750 - 989-739-9255
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The Lamplighter Bed & Breakfast
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602 East Ludington Avenue
Ludington, Michigan 49431 - 231-843-9792
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Dutch Colonial Inn
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560 Central Avenue
Holland, Michigan 49423 - 616-396-3664
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Victoria Resort Bed & Breakfast
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241 Oak Street
South Haven, Michigan 49090 - 269-637-6414
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The House on the Hill Bed & Breakfast
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9661 Lake Street
Ellsworth, Michigan 49729 - 734-536-9162
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Inn of Saugatuck
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447 Butler Street
Saugatuck, Michigan 49453 - 269-857-3325
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Cottonwood Inn Bed & Breakfast
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9583 West Front Street
Empire, Michigan 49630 - 231-326-5535
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Inisfree Estate
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1073 62nd Street
Pullman, Michigan 49450 - 269-236-9700
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Country Hermitage Bed & Breakfast
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7710 U.S. 31
Williamsburg, Michigan 49690 - 231-938-5930
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Vintage Inn at Veritas Estate
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7073 Baseline Road
South Haven, Michigan 49090 - 262-327-3439
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Goldberry Woods
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9902 Community Hall Road
Union Pier, Michigan 49129 - 269-469-9800
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Grey Hare Inn
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1994 Carroll Road
Traverse City, Michigan 49686 - 231-947-2214
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PrairieSide Suites Bed & Breakfast
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3180 Washington Avenue Southwest
Grandville, Michigan 49418 - 616-538-9442
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Lewis House Bed & Breakfast
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324 South Mears Avenue
Whitehall, Michigan 49461 - 844-854-6424
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Maple Cove Bed & Breakfast and The August House
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969 Maple Cove Drive
Leonard, Michigan 48367 - 248-274-4680
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Candlelite Inn Bed & Breakfast
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709 East Ludington Avenue
Ludington, Michigan 49431 - 231-845-8074
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Nahma Pines Cabin B&B
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8664 Ll Road
Rapid River, Michigan 49878 - 906-450-5530
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Canfield House Bed & Breakfast
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4138 Portage Point Drive
Onekama, Michigan 49675 - 231-970-0335
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Himelhoch Bed & Breakfast
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103 North Almer Street
Caro, Michigan 48723 - 989-286-3262
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Castle in the Country Bed & Breakfast Inn
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340 Michigan 40
Allegan, Michigan 49010 - 269-673-8054
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Dapple-Gray Bed & Breakfast
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13640 Michigan 26
Eagle Harbor, Michigan 49950 - 866-909-1233
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Port Austin Bed & Breakfast
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8526 Lake Street
Port Austin, Michigan 48467 - 989-738-0361
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Lexington House Bed & Breakfast
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5712 Main Street
Lexington, Michigan 48450 - 810-359-7134
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The Vine Bed & Breakfast
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1098 Lloyd Road
Dundee, Michigan 48131 - 734-823-5050
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Always a Holiday! Bed & Breakfast
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423 Newman Street
East Tawas, Michigan 48730 - 989-984-5300
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Rōming Roost Bed & Breakfast
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9686 East Otto Road
Suttons Bay, Michigan 49682 - 231-330-3984
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The Sweetwater Sea Bed & Breakfast
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2307 South U.S. 23
Greenbush, Michigan 48738 - 989-820-1005
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Baxter House Bed & Breakfast
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19 North 4th Avenue
Ann Arbor, Michigan 48104 - 734-474-5021
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Raymond House Inn Bed & Breakfast
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111 South Ridge Street
Port Sanilac, Michigan 48469 - 810-622-8800
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Borchers Au Sable Canoe & Kayak
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101 Maple Street
Grayling, Michigan 49738 - 989-348-4921
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A Dove Nest Bed & Breakfast
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4400 Phillips Road
Kingston, Michigan 48741 - 989-683-8404
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Robyn’s Inn
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932 Penniman Avenue
Plymouth, Michigan 48170 - 734-667-3343
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Washington Street Inn Bed & Breakfast
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608 Washington Avenue
Grand Haven, Michigan 49417 - 616-842-1075
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Torch Lake Bed & Breakfast
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4417 Trillium Ridge
Central Lake, Michigan 49622 - 231-599-3400
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Big Bay Point Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast
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4674 County Road KCB
Big Bay, Michigan 49808 - 906-345-9957
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The Hotel Saugatuck
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900 Lake Street
Saugatuck, Michigan 49453 - 269-416-0731
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Frankenmuth Country Bed & Breakfast
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2160 South Gera Road
Frankenmuth, Michigan 48734 - 989-574-7000
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Garden Grove Inn Bed & Breakfast
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9549 Union Pier Road
Union Pier, Michigan 49129 - 269-469-6346
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Historic Webster House Bed & Breakfast
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900 5th Street
Bay City, Michigan 48708 - 877-229-9704
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Stag’s Leap Farm B&B
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2093 North Baldwin Road
Oxford, Michigan 48371 - 248-639-9134
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Horton Creek Inn B&B
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5757 Boyne City Road
Charlevoix, Michigan 49720 - 231-582-5373
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Inn at Old Orchard Road
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1422 South Shore Drive
Holland, Michigan 49423 - 616-335-2525
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Knob Hill Bed & Breakfast
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1105 South Drive
Flint, Michigan 48503 - 810-424-3888
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The Leonard at Logan House
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440 Logan Street Southeast
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 - 616-308-6585
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Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast and Condos
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6548 Western Avenue
Glen Arbor, Michigan 49636 - 231-334-6789
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