Lake Michigan, one of the largest lakes in the world, offers beautiful beaches and quaint beach towns along its coastlines. This itinerary provides three days across the Lake Michigan coastline, highlighting a few of the best towns, food, and activities. This makes for a great summer vacation, but can also be a relaxing scenic trip in the fall.
For details and food recommendations, check out our Michigan 3 Day Lakeshore Roadtrip
Day One
First stop on your roadtrip is Leland, Michigan to check out the historic Fish Town. Enjoy lunch in Leland before heading to Glen Arbor to spend the afternoon in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park.
Leland-Fish shanties now filled with boutique shops, this is a fun stop for some photos, shopping and a bite to eat.
Check in for a stay at the Mill at Glen Arbor- A renovated old flour mill from the 1800s. this is a relaxing little getaway, with incredible food and coffee just steps away in the building next door.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore- With bluffs towering 450 feet above Lake Michigan, exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park is easily an all day event. Head out early for some cooler temperatures and pack a lunch for a beachside picnic.
Art’s Tavern- Around since 1934, this bar is a neighborhood gathering place with great service and quality food.
Day Two
On this day, head to Mackinaw City and take the ferry over to Mackinac Island. Enjoy two nights on the island, taking full advantage of the quieter mornings and evenings. On this first day, get your bearings by taking a bike ride around the city. If you have extra time, head up to Fort Mackinac to learn some of the military history of the island.
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry- This ferry option is well organized with great customer service.
Murdick’s Famous Fudge- Mackinac Island is known for their fudge, and Murdicks is one of the best and oldest fudge shops on the island.
Fort Mackinac- Learn the military history of the island with a tour of the fort.
Mackinac Island Bike Shop- Rent a bike from any of the bike shops around town and take a bike ride around the island. With no cars and beautiful views, this is one of the most relaxing activities to do.
Day Three
Start your day with a sunrise hike up to Arch Rock. Enjoy a great breakfast at Seabiscuit, walk along the largest front porch in the world at the Grand Hotel, and take a carriage tour around the island.
Arch Rock- With 207 steps up to the top, you’ll want to take your time getting to the top. But the views are well worth it. Hiking trails are also in the area for some extra exploring.
Mackinac Island Carriage Tours- Take a relaxing carriage tour around the island, learning some history and fun facts along the way.
The Grand Hotel- This hotel is worth a visit just to walk around. Enjoy the world’s largest front porch and walk around the beautiful gardens below.
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