Lake Michigan, one of the largest lakes in the world, offers beautiful beaches and quaint beach towns along its coastlines. This itinerary provides seven days across the Lake Michigan coastline, highlighting some 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 more details, food and hotel recommendations, Check out our free Michigan Lakeshore Roadtrip Itinerary.
Day One
First stop on your roadtrip is Saugatuck. Check in to your hotel and spend some time walking around the downtown shops. Take a ride through the dunes with Saugatuck Dune Rides, and end the day with a great steak dinner.
Saugatuck Dune Rides- These tours sell out quickly so it’s important to get your tickets in advance. Tickets are sold two weeks in advance.
Bowdie’s Chophouse- The owners of this restaurant were originally from Chicago. When they moved to Michigan and were unable to find a steakhouse comparable to the restaurants in Chicago, they decided to open up their own. Can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, it’s all very good. This place books up pretty far in advance so be sure to get reservations. If unsuccessful in getting a reservation, check with the restaurant when they open for any potential last minute availability.
Day Two
Spend day two in another town up the road, Grand Haven. With one of the best beaches on Lake Michigan, some great food options and a night time show, this is well worth a day trip.
Grand Haven Lighthouse- Located at the end of the beach. After a day of swimming, take some photos at the lighthouse
Grand Haven Musical Fountain- A completely free event that requires very little planning. Grand Haven puts on a nightly 30 minutes show of water, lights and music at dark, between Memorial Day and Labor Day at the Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium.
Day Three
On your third day, head up to Traverse City. This will be home base for two nights. Traverse City offers a number of options for shopping and food, but is also located at the perfect jumping off point for other activities in the area. Spend this day exploring the town and beach, or take a wine tour.
Leelanau Penninsula-Sharing the same latitude as the Bourdeaux region of France, the Traverse City area offers nearly 50 different wineries, with some of the more scenic options located on the Leelanau Peninsula. Explore on your own or take one of the many wine tours offered in the area.
Cherry Repubic- Traverse City is known for their cherries. With over 200 cherry products throughout the store, many of which are available to sample, this is a great spot to explore.
Little Fleet- With a number of food trucks, seating, and live music, this is a fun little spot to grab a quick bite and relax at the end of the day.
Day Four
Spend the day at the most popular state park in Michigan. Pack a lunch and have a beach picnic, after spend the morning enjoying the scenic drives or hikes.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park- 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.
Day Five
Check out of your hotel in Traverse City and head up to Petoskey. A midpoint between Traverse City and Mackinac Island, with lots to explore in its own right. Spend the day in the state park in search of petoskey stones or exploring the local shops.
Petoskey State Park- This is a popular destination for those in search of Petoskey stones. This park offers a great beach for swimming and a number of hiking trails.
Spring and Porter- End your day with a nice meal. This is a cozy modern restaurant, winner of a diners’ choice award in 2023.
Day Six
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.
Star Line Ferry- There are a couple of options when it comes to ferries, Star Line is well organized with great parking options.
Murdicks Fudge- Mackinac Island is known for their fudge, and Murdicks is one of the best and oldest fudge shops on the island
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.
Fort Mackinac- Learn the military history of the island with a tour of the fort.
Day Seven
Start your day with a 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.
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.
Mackinac Island Carriage Tours- Take a relaxing carriage tour around the island, learning some history and fun facts along the way.
Have more questions? Set up a consultation with me. I can walk through any planning struggles you may be having or setup an itinerary that works for your family. Happy travels!
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