List of State Attractions

I. National Land

National Park

Isle Royale National Park
A remote and rugged island archipelago in the northwestern corner of Lake Superior, Isle Royale is a haven for backpackers, paddlers, and solitude seekers. The park is famous for the long-term study of its isolated wolf and moose populations. Access to the island is by ferry or seaplane only.
- Location: Lake Superior; visitor centers in Houghton and Copper Harbor, MI, and Grand Portage, MN.
- Nearest Major City: Houghton (for ferry departure)
- Website: nps.gov/isro
- Phone: (906) 482-0984
- Visitor Interests: Multi-day backpacking, kayaking and canoeing the island's interior lakes, wildlife viewing (especially moose), fishing, ranger programs.

National Lakeshores

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
America's first National Lakeshore, this park protects a stunning 42-mile stretch of the Lake Superior shoreline. It is renowned for its colorful sandstone cliffs, beautiful beaches, sand dunes, waterfalls, and inland forests.
- Location: N8391 Sand Point Rd, Munising, MI 49862 (Munising Falls Visitor Center)
- Nearest Major City: Marquette
- Website: nps.gov/piro
- Phone: (906) 387-3700
- Visitor Interests: Taking a boat cruise or kayaking to see the cliffs, hiking the North Country Scenic Trail, visiting waterfalls like Munising Falls and Miners Falls, exploring the Au Sable Light Station.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Named "The Most Beautiful Place in America" by Good Morning America viewers in 2011, this park features magnificent sand dunes that tower over 450 feet above Lake Michigan. The park also encompasses lush forests, inland lakes, and the historic Manitou Islands.
- Location: 9922 Front St, Empire, MI 49630 (Philip A. Hart Visitor Center)
- Nearest Major City: Traverse City
- Website: nps.gov/slbe
- Phone: (231) 326-4700
- Visitor Interests: Climbing the massive Dune Climb, driving the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, hiking the Empire Bluff Trail for panoramic views, kayaking the Crystal River, visiting the historic village of Glen Haven.

National Historical Park

Keweenaw National Historical Park
This park commemorates the rich history of copper mining on the Keweenaw Peninsula, which once supplied the vast majority of the nation's copper. The park is a collection of cooperating historic sites and properties spread across the region.
- Location: 25970 Red Jacket Rd, Calumet, MI 49913 (Visitor Center)
- Nearest Major City: Houghton
- Website: nps.gov/kewe
- Phone: (906) 337-3168
- Visitor Interests: Taking underground mine tours at partner sites like the Quincy Mine, exploring the historic town of Calumet, visiting the various heritage centers that interpret the area's mining and immigration history.

National Forest

Hiawatha National Forest
Touching the shores of Lakes Superior, Michigan, and Huron, this nearly one-million-acre national forest is a jewel of the Upper Peninsula. It is characterized by its vast woodlands, numerous lakes and streams, and scenic shorelines.
- Location: Multiple districts. Main office at 820 Rains Dr, Gladstone, MI 49837
- Nearest Major City: Escanaba / Sault Ste. Marie
- Website: fs.usda.gov/hiawatha
- Phone: (906) 428-5800
- Visitor Interests: Camping, hiking, fishing, visiting the Point Iroquois Lighthouse, exploring the historic Grand Island National Recreation Area.

II. State Land

Top Twenty Most Visited State Parks & Recreation Areas

Holland State Park
Famous for its iconic "Big Red" lighthouse and stunning sugar-sand beach on Lake Michigan, this park is a classic summer destination. It offers beautiful views of sailboats and sunsets.
- Location: 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424
- Nearest Major City: Grand Rapids
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/holland
- Phone: (616) 399-9390
- Visitor Interests: Swimming, sunbathing, photographing the lighthouse, camping, fishing from the pier.
Grand Haven State Park
This park consists entirely of a beautiful sandy beach on Lake Michigan and the Grand River. Its pier and lighthouse are iconic, and the park is known for its lively beach atmosphere and musical fountain.
- Location: 1001 S Harbor Dr, Grand Haven, MI 49417
- Nearest Major City: Grand Rapids
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/grand-haven
- Phone: (616) 847-1309
- Visitor Interests: Beach activities, walking the pier to the lighthouse, watching the nightly musical fountain show (seasonal), camping.
Mackinac Island State Park
Covering over 80% of Mackinac Island, this is Michigan's first state park. The park features stunning natural formations like Arch Rock and Sugar Loaf, historic Fort Mackinac, and miles of trails accessible only by foot, bicycle, or horse-drawn carriage.
- Location: Mackinac Island, MI 49757
- Nearest Major City: Cheboygan
- Website: mackinacparks.com/parks-and-attractions/mackinac-island-state-park/
- Phone: (906) 847-3328
- Visitor Interests: Biking the 8.2-mile road around the island, visiting historic Fort Mackinac, photographing Arch Rock, exploring the island's interior trails.
Ludington State Park
Nestled between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake, this park offers a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, dunes, forests, and wetlands. Its highlight is the mile-long walk to the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
- Location: 8800 W M-116, Ludington, MI 49431
- Nearest Major City: Muskegon
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/ludington
- Phone: (231) 843-2423
- Visitor Interests: Hiking or biking to the Big Sable Point Lighthouse, swimming at the Lake Michigan beach, paddling on Hamlin Lake, tubing down the Sable River.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The Upper Falls is a stunning, tannin-stained cascade over 200 feet wide, while the Lower Falls is a series of smaller, picturesque cascades surrounding an island.
- Location: 41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768
- Nearest Major City: Sault Ste. Marie
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/tahquamenon-falls
- Phone: (906) 492-3415
- Visitor Interests: Viewing the impressive Upper Falls, renting a rowboat to explore the Lower Falls, hiking the trail between the falls, visiting the brewpub at the Upper Falls.
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
Michigan's largest state park, the "Porkies" offer a vast expanse of old-growth forest, roaring waterfalls, and stunning vistas over the Lake of the Clouds. It's a premier destination for rugged hiking and wilderness camping.
- Location: 33303 Headquarters Rd, Ontonagon, MI 49953
- Nearest Major City: Marquette
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/porcupine-mountains-wilderness
- Phone: (906) 885-5275
- Visitor Interests: The panoramic view of the Lake of the Clouds, hiking over 90 miles of trails, viewing the numerous waterfalls, backcountry camping.
Silver Lake State Park
Famous for its 2,000-acre sand dunes and its Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) scramble area, this park is a unique destination for adrenaline junkies and beach lovers alike.
- Location: 9679 W State Park Rd, Mears, MI 49436
- Nearest Major City: Muskegon
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/silver-lake
- Phone: (231) 873-3083
- Visitor Interests: Driving a personal or rented ORV on the dunes, taking a commercial dune buggy ride, swimming at the beach, visiting Little Sable Point Lighthouse.
Belle Isle Park
A 982-acre island park in the Detroit River, managed by the state. It features a host of attractions including the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Belle Isle Aquarium, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and beautiful views of the Detroit and Windsor skylines.
- Location: 99 Pleasure Dr, Detroit, MI 48207
- Nearest Major City: Detroit
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/belle-isle
- Phone: (313) 821-9844
- Visitor Interests: Visiting the conservatory and aquarium, the James Scott Memorial Fountain, picnicking, fishing, biking.
Warren Dunes State Park
Known for its massive coastal sand dunes, some rising 260 feet above Lake Michigan, this park offers spectacular views and strenuous hiking challenges. It also features three miles of shoreline.
- Location: 12032 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125
- Nearest Major City: South Bend, IN
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/warren-dunes
- Phone: (269) 426-4013
- Visitor Interests: Hiking the massive dunes, swimming at the beach, hang gliding (with permit), camping.
Tawas Point State Park
Located on a sandy spit of land that hooks into Lake Huron, this park is often called the "Cape Cod of the Midwest." It's a premier spot for birdwatching and features the historic Tawas Point Lighthouse.
- Location: 686 Tawas Beach Rd, East Tawas, MI 48730
- Nearest Major City: Bay City
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/tawas-point
- Phone: (989) 362-5041
- Visitor Interests: Birdwatching during migration, visiting the lighthouse, swimming at the warm, shallow beach, camping.
Straits State Park
This park offers one of the most iconic views in Michigan: a perfect vantage point for photographing the Mackinac Bridge. The park has campsites and trails with frequent views of the "Mighty Mac."
- Location: 720 Church St, St. Ignace, MI 49781
- Nearest Major City: Cheboygan
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/straits
- Phone: (906) 643-8620
- Visitor Interests: Unparalleled views of the Mackinac Bridge, camping, hiking, visiting nearby St. Ignace and Mackinac Island.
Hartwick Pines State Park
One of the largest state parks in the Lower Peninsula, Hartwick Pines is famous for its 49-acre tract of old-growth pine forest, which includes a "monarch" white pine over 300 years old.
- Location: 4216 Ranger Rd, Grayling, MI 49738
- Nearest Major City: Traverse City
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/hartwick-pines
- Phone: (989) 348-7068
- Visitor Interests: Walking through the old-growth forest, visiting the logging museum, hiking and biking, birdwatching.
Bay City State Park
Home to one of the largest remaining freshwater coastal marsh systems on the Great Lakes, this park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It also features a popular swimming beach on Saginaw Bay.
- Location: 3582 State Park Dr, Bay City, MI 48706
- Nearest Major City: Bay City
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/bay-city
- Phone: (989) 684-3020
- Visitor Interests: Birdwatching, swimming, hiking the Tobico Marsh Trail, visiting the Saginaw Bay Visitor Center.
F.J. Higgins Lake State Park
This park is situated on the shore of Higgins Lake, a large spring-fed lake renowned for its crystal-clear water and sandy bottom, making it a favorite for swimming and boating.
- Location: 106 State Park Dr, Roscommon, MI 48653
- Nearest Major City: Traverse City
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/higgins-lake-south
- Phone: (989) 821-6374
- Visitor Interests: Swimming in the clear, shallow water; boating; camping; visiting the historic CCC Museum.
Mears State Park
Located at the foot of the massive sand dune known as "Old Baldy," this park is a popular beach destination in the charming village of Pentwater.
- Location: 400 W Lowell St, Pentwater, MI 49449
- Nearest Major City: Muskegon
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/mears
- Phone: (231) 869-2051
- Visitor Interests: Swimming at the beach, walking the pier, climbing Old Baldy for views of the lake and village.
Muskegon State Park
With two miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and one mile on Muskegon Lake, this park offers diverse recreational opportunities. It is home to the Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park for year-round fun.
- Location: 3560 Memorial Dr, North Muskegon, MI 49445
- Nearest Major City: Muskegon
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/muskegon
- Phone: (231) 744-3480
- Visitor Interests: The luge track and zip lines at the sports park, swimming, hiking, visiting the historic blockhouse for views.
Harrisville State Park
One of Michigan's oldest state parks, this park offers a pleasant, shaded campground and a sandy beach on Lake Huron.
- Location: 248 State Park Rd, Harrisville, MI 48740
- Nearest Major City: Alpena
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/harrisville
- Phone: (989) 724-5126
- Visitor Interests: Camping, swimming, hiking the cedar-lined trails, birdwatching.
Island Lake Recreation Area
A popular destination in the metro Detroit area, this park is known for its "Up North" feel without the long drive. It features a section of the Huron River, a shooting range, and a hot air balloon port.
- Location: 12950 E Grand River Ave, Brighton, MI 48116
- Nearest Major City: Ann Arbor
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/island-lake
- Phone: (810) 229-7067
- Visitor Interests: Kayaking or canoeing the Huron River Water Trail, biking the paved path, swimming, hot air ballooning.
Maybury State Park
An oasis of tranquil farmland and woods in the metro Detroit area. This park is designed to bring a "farm" experience to city dwellers.
- Location: 20145 Beck Rd, Northville, MI 48167
- Nearest Major City: Detroit
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/maybury
- Phone: (248) 349-8390
- Visitor Interests: Visiting Maybury Farm to see the animals, hiking, biking, and horseback riding on the trails.
Fayette Historic State Park
This unique park preserves a once-bustling industrial town from the 19th century that smelted iron ore. The well-preserved historic buildings stand against the beautiful backdrop of Snail Shell Harbor.
- Location: 4785 II Rd, Garden, MI 49835
- Nearest Major City: Escanaba
- Website: michigan.gov/dnr/places/state-parks/fayette-historic
- Phone: (906) 644-2603
- Visitor Interests: Exploring the historic townsite and museum exhibits, camping, boating on the harbor, hiking the scenic bluff trail.

III. Michigan Lighthouses (Publicly Viewable)

With around 129 lighthouses, Michigan has the most of any state in the U.S., a testament to the immense maritime traffic that has traversed the Great Lakes. The state's lighthouse history began in 1825 with the construction of the Fort Gratiot Light to guide ships through the perilous currents of the St. Clair River from Lake Huron. The subsequent boom in the 19th century, driven by the transport of iron ore, copper, and lumber, led to the construction of dozens of lights along Michigan's extensive freshwater coastline. These beacons were essential for navigating the Great Lakes' famously violent storms, which have claimed thousands of ships. Today, these lighthouses have transitioned from critical navigational aids to cherished historical landmarks. Many have been beautifully preserved and are now museums, bed-and-breakfasts, and popular tourist destinations that tell the story of the Great Lakes' rich and often dangerous maritime heritage.

St. Joseph North Pier Inner & Outer Lights
An iconic pair of pierhead lights connected by a catwalk, guiding ships into the St. Joseph River from Lake Michigan.
- Location: Tiscornia Park, St. Joseph, MI 49085
- Nearest Town: St. Joseph
- Viewing: Easily accessible by walking the north pier from Tiscornia Park. Excellent for photos.
South Haven South Pierhead Light
A distinctive red, cylindrical lighthouse at the end of a pier, a classic symbol of this Lake Michigan beach town.
- Location: South Pier, South Haven, MI 49090
- Nearest Town: South Haven
- Viewing: Walk the pier from South Beach for up-close views.
Holland Harbor Lighthouse ("Big Red")
One of Michigan's most famous lighthouses, this striking red structure stands at the entrance to Lake Macatawa.
- Location: 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424
- Nearest Town: Holland
- Viewing: Best viewed from across the channel at Holland State Park. The lighthouse itself is on private property with no public access.
Grand Haven South Pierhead Inner & Entrance Lights
A beloved pair of red pier lights connected by a lighted catwalk, offering beautiful sunset photo opportunities.
- Location: Grand Haven State Park, Grand Haven, MI 49417
- Nearest Town: Grand Haven
- Viewing: Fully accessible by walking the pier from Grand Haven State Park.
Muskegon South Pierhead Light
A red pyramidal light at the end of a long pier, marking the entrance to Muskegon Lake.
- Location: Pere Marquette Park, Muskegon, MI 49441
- Nearest Town: Muskegon
- Viewing: Accessible by walking the pier from Pere Marquette Park. The tower is occasionally open for climbing.
Little Sable Point Lighthouse
A graceful, tall brick tower standing alone on a vast stretch of beach south of Silver Lake State Park.
- Location: 287 N Lighthouse Dr, Mears, MI 49436
- Nearest Town: Mears
- Viewing: Grounds are accessible. The tower is open for climbing during the summer season for a fee.
Big Sable Point Lighthouse
A stunning black-and-white banded lighthouse located within Ludington State Park. Reaching it requires a 1.8-mile walk.
- Location: 8800 W M-116, Ludington, MI 49431
- Nearest Town: Ludington
- Viewing: Accessible via a 1.8-mile walk or bike ride on a dedicated trail within the state park. The tower is open for climbing seasonally.
Manistee North Pierhead Light
A white, steel-plated tower on the pier in Manistee, a charming Victorian port city.
- Location: 5th Avenue Beach, Manistee, MI 49660
- Nearest Town: Manistee
- Viewing: Easily accessible by walking the pier from the 5th Avenue Beach.
Point Betsie Lighthouse
One of the most important lights on Lake Michigan, marking the southern entrance to the Manitou Passage. Features a beautiful attached keeper's house.
- Location: 3701 Point Betsie Rd, Frankfort, MI 49635
- Nearest Town: Frankfort
- Viewing: Grounds, museum, and tower are open for tours on a seasonal schedule. Excellent views from the adjacent beach.
Robert H. Manning Memorial Lighthouse
A newer lighthouse built in 1990 at the entrance to Empire's harbor, dedicated to a local fisherman.
- Location: Empire Beach, Empire, MI 49630
- Nearest Town: Empire
- Viewing: Located in the public beach park in Empire, fully accessible.
Grand Traverse Lighthouse
Located at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula in Leelanau State Park, this historic light has been restored to its 1920s-30s appearance.
- Location: 15500 N Lighthouse Point Rd, Northport, MI 49670
- Nearest Town: Northport
- Viewing: Located within the state park. The keeper's quarters museum and tower are open for tours seasonally.
Mission Point Lighthouse
This classic lighthouse sits almost exactly on the 45th Parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, at the end of the Old Mission Peninsula.
- Location: 20500 Center Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686
- Nearest Town: Traverse City
- Viewing: Located in a public park. The tower is open for climbing seasonally.
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
A beautiful castle-like lighthouse at the foot of the Mackinac Bridge, restored to its 1910 appearance.
- Location: 526 N Huron Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
- Nearest Town: Mackinaw City
- Viewing: Part of the Mackinac State Historic Parks system. The tower and keeper's quarters are open for tours with an admission fee.
McGulpin Point Lighthouse
An 1869 lighthouse that was decommissioned for over 80 years before being restored and opened to the public.
- Location: 500 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City, MI 49701
- Nearest Town: Mackinaw City
- Viewing: The grounds and tower are open to the public seasonally.
Fort Gratiot Lighthouse
The first and oldest lighthouse in Michigan, marking the entrance to the St. Clair River from Lake Huron.
- Location: 2802 Omar St, Port Huron, MI 48060
- Nearest Town: Port Huron
- Viewing: The grounds are part of a county park, and the tower is open for climbs seasonally for a fee.
Pointe aux Barques Lighthouse
One of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes, located in a county park at the tip of Michigan's "Thumb."
- Location: 7320 Lighthouse Rd, Port Hope, MI 48468
- Nearest Town: Port Hope
- Viewing: The keeper's house is a museum, and the grounds are open to the public. The tower is open for climbing on select dates.
Tawas Point Lighthouse
A beautiful lighthouse located inside Tawas Point State Park, a popular spot for birding.
- Location: 686 Tawas Beach Rd, East Tawas, MI 48730
- Nearest Town: East Tawas
- Viewing: Located within the state park. The tower is open for tours seasonally.
Sturgeon Point Lighthouse
A classic 1869 lighthouse with an attached keeper's house that is now a maritime museum.
- Location: 6030 E Sturgeon Point Rd, Harrisville, MI 48740
- Nearest Town: Harrisville
- Viewing: The museum is open seasonally, and the tower is open for climbing on a regular schedule during the summer.
Old Presque Isle Lighthouse
A charming, historic lighthouse from 1840 that is now a museum. Visitors can climb the stone tower.
- Location: 5295 E Grand Lake Rd, Presque Isle, MI 49779
- Nearest Town: Alpena
- Viewing: Grounds, keeper's house museum, and tower are open seasonally for a fee.
New Presque Isle Lighthouse
One of the tallest lighthouses on the Great Lakes that is open for public climbing.
- Location: 4500 E Grand Lake Rd, Presque Isle, MI 49779
- Nearest Town: Alpena
- Viewing: Located in a public park. The tower is open for climbing seasonally for a fee.
40 Mile Point Lighthouse
A historic 1896 lighthouse located in a county park, with a beautiful beach and shipwreck artifacts.
- Location: 7323 US-23, Rogers City, MI 49779
- Nearest Town: Rogers City
- Viewing: The grounds, keeper's house museum, and tower are open to the public seasonally.
Cheboygan Crib Light
A small red light on a concrete crib, marking the entrance to the Cheboygan River.
- Location: Gordon Turner Park, Cheboygan, MI 49721
- Nearest Town: Cheboygan
- Viewing: Easily viewed from Gordon Turner Park and the adjacent shoreline.
Round Island Lighthouse
A beautiful red and white lighthouse visible from Mackinac Island, a classic part of the Straits of Mackinac scenery.
- Location: Straits of Mackinac, MI
- Nearest Town: Mackinac Island
- Viewing: Best viewed from the ferries to Mackinac Island and from various points on the eastern shore of Mackinac Island. Not open to the public.
Point Iroquois Lighthouse
A beautiful white lighthouse with an attached keeper's house, now a museum, overlooking the entrance to the St. Marys River from Lake Superior.
- Location: 12942 W Lakeshore Dr, Brimley, MI 49715
- Nearest Town: Sault Ste. Marie
- Viewing: Located in the Hiawatha National Forest. The museum and tower are open to the public seasonally.
Whitefish Point Lighthouse
The oldest active light on Lake Superior, this light marks the critical turning point in the "Graveyard of the Great Lakes." The grounds are home to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum.
- Location: 18335 N Whitefish Point Rd, Paradise, MI 49768
- Nearest Town: Paradise
- Viewing: Grounds and museum are open to the public with an admission fee. The lighthouse is part of the museum complex.
Crisp Point Lighthouse
One of the most remote and difficult-to-reach lighthouses in Michigan, accessible via miles of unpaved roads. The reward is a beautiful, isolated beach setting.
- Location: 1944 County Road 412, Newberry, MI 49868
- Nearest Town: Newberry
- Viewing: Accessible by car (high-clearance vehicle recommended). The tower is open for climbing when volunteers are present.
Au Sable Light Station
A tall, elegant brick tower located within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Reaching it requires a 1.5-mile walk.
- Location: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Grand Marais, MI 49839
- Nearest Town: Grand Marais
- Viewing: Accessible via a 1.5-mile walk from the Hurricane River Campground. Ranger-led tours of the tower are offered seasonally.
Grand Marais Harbor of Refuge Inner & Rear Range Lights
A pair of skeletal steel lights that are easily accessible in the charming harbor town of Grand Marais.
- Location: Grand Marais, MI 49839
- Nearest Town: Grand Marais
- Viewing: Located in the public park and beach area near the harbor.
Munising Front & Rear Range Lights
A pair of lights that ships align to guide them safely into Munising's harbor.
- Location: Munising, MI 49862
- Nearest Town: Munising
- Viewing: The front range light is easily visible from M-28 in downtown Munising. The rear range light is on private property but visible from the street.
Marquette Harbor Lighthouse
A vibrant red lighthouse standing on a rocky point, one of the most iconic sights in Marquette.
- Location: 300 N Lakeshore Blvd, Marquette, MI 49855
- Nearest Town: Marquette
- Viewing: Can be viewed from McCarty's Cove beach and the surrounding park. The Marquette Maritime Museum offers tours of the lighthouse.
Sand Point Lighthouse (Escanaba)
A beautifully restored brick lighthouse in Escanaba.
- Location: 16 Water Plant Rd, Escanaba, MI 49829
- Nearest Town: Escanaba
- Viewing: Located in Ludington Park. The tower and keeper's house are open for tours seasonally.
Peninsula Point Lighthouse
The ruins of an 1865 lighthouse at the tip of the Stonington Peninsula, offering fantastic views.
- Location: Stonington, MI 49887
- Nearest Town: Rapid River
- Viewing: Located in the Hiawatha National Forest. Visitors can climb the iron spiral staircase of the ruined tower for panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
Seul Choix Point Lighthouse
A historic light station on Lake Michigan's north shore, said to be haunted. The complex includes a museum.
- Location: 672 N West Gulliver Lake Rd, Gulliver, MI 49840
- Nearest Town: Manistique
- Viewing: Grounds, museum, and tower are open to the public seasonally for a fee.
Holland Harbor Lighthouse ("Big Red")
One of Michigan's most famous lighthouses, this striking red structure stands at the entrance to Lake Macatawa.
- Location: 2215 Ottawa Beach Rd, Holland, MI 49424
- Nearest Town: Holland
- Viewing: Best viewed from across the channel at Holland State Park. The lighthouse itself is on private property with no public access.
Eagle Harbor Lighthouse
A working lighthouse on the scenic Keweenaw Peninsula, the light station complex includes several museum buildings.
- Location: 670 Lighthouse Rd, Eagle Harbor, MI 49950
- Nearest Town: Eagle Harbor
- Viewing: The grounds and museums are open seasonally. Tower tours are often available.
Copper Harbor Lighthouse
Guarding the entrance to Copper Harbor, this 1866 lighthouse is only accessible by boat.
- Location: Copper Harbor, MI 49918
- Nearest Town: Copper Harbor
- Viewing: The lighthouse can be viewed by taking the Copper Harbor Lighthouse Tour boat, which includes a tour of the grounds and keeper's house.
Ontonagon Lighthouse
A cream-colored brick lighthouse that guided ships into the Ontonagon River, a key port during the copper boom.
- Location: 422 N River St, Ontonagon, MI 49953
- Nearest Town: Ontonagon
- Viewing: The Ontonagon County Historical Society offers tours of the lighthouse seasonally.
Manistique East Breakwater Light
A bright red, square tower on a breakwater in Manistique's harbor.
- Location: Harbor Park, Manistique, MI 49854
- Nearest Town: Manistique
- Viewing: Easily viewed and photographed from the public boardwalk and park along the harbor.
South Fox Island Lighthouse
A remote, decommissioned lighthouse on an island in Lake Michigan. It is being restored by a preservation society.
- Location: South Fox Island, MI
- Nearest Town: Northport
- Viewing: Only accessible by private boat or on special fundraising tours offered by the Fox Island Lighthouse Association.
Charlevoix South Pier Light Station
Another iconic red pierhead light, marking the channel between Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix.
- Location: Lake Michigan Beach, Charlevoix, MI 49720
- Nearest Town: Charlevoix
- Viewing: Accessible by walking the pier from Lake Michigan Beach Park.

IV. Private Attractions

Zoos, Botanical Gardens & Museums

The Henry Ford
An internationally recognized cultural destination in Dearborn, The Henry Ford is a vast complex comprising four distinct attractions: the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, the Ford Rouge Factory Tour, and the Giant Screen Experience.
- Location: 20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124
- Nearest Major City: Detroit
- Website: thehenryford.org
- Phone: (313) 982-6001
- Visitor Interests: Exploring iconic artifacts like the Rosa Parks bus and JFK's limousine; riding in a Model T through the living history of Greenfield Village; seeing F-150s being built on the factory tour.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
A world-class cultural destination in Grand Rapids, this park blends a stunning botanical garden with a significant outdoor sculpture collection featuring works by masters like Rodin and Degas. It also includes a tropical conservatory and art galleries.
- Location: 1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
- Nearest Major City: Grand Rapids
- Website: meijergardens.org
- Phone: (616) 957-1580
- Visitor Interests: The 30-acre sculpture park, the tropical conservatory, the Japanese Garden, the annual "Butterflies Are Blooming" exhibit, summer concerts.
Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)
One of the top art museums in the United States, the DIA's collection spans the globe from ancient to modern times. Its most famous works are the monumental Detroit Industry Murals by Diego Rivera. General admission is free for residents of several counties.
- Location: 5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48202
- Nearest Major City: Detroit
- Website: dia.org
- Phone: (313) 833-7900
- Visitor Interests: The Diego Rivera murals, one of the first Van Gogh paintings in a U.S. museum, the extensive collection of American and European art, special exhibitions.
Motown Museum ("Hitsville U.S.A.")
This modest house is where Berry Gordy founded Motown Records and launched the careers of countless superstars like The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, and the Jackson 5. Visitors can stand in the legendary Studio A where the hits were recorded.
- Location: 2648 W Grand Blvd, Detroit, MI 48208
- Nearest Major City: Detroit
- Website: motownmuseum.org
- Phone: (313) 875-2264
- Visitor Interests: Taking a guided tour through the historic house, seeing original recording equipment in Studio A, viewing memorabilia from Motown artists.
Detroit Zoo
A large zoo known for its progressive, naturalistic habitats. It is home to the Polk Penguin Conservation Center, one of the world's largest penguin facilities, and a variety of other exhibits like the Arctic Ring of Life.
- Location: 8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067
- Nearest Major City: Detroit
- Website: detroitzoo.org
- Phone: (248) 541-5717
- Visitor Interests: The Polk Penguin Conservation Center, the Arctic Ring of Life with its underwater polar bear viewing tunnel, the Australian Outback Adventure, the carousel and train.

Amusement Park

Michigan's Adventure
The largest amusement and water park in Michigan, this complex offers over 60 rides and attractions. It features a variety of roller coasters and thrill rides, as well as the integrated WildWater Adventure water park.
- Location: 4750 Whitehall Rd, Muskegon, MI 49445
- Nearest Major City: Muskegon
- Website: miadventure.com
- Phone: (231) 766-3377
- Visitor Interests: The Shivering Timbers wooden roller coaster, other thrill rides, the WildWater Adventure water park (included with admission).

V. Shopping Centers

Somerset Collection
An upscale, super-regional shopping mall in Troy, consisting of two separate buildings connected by an enclosed, moving skywalk. It is a premier luxury shopping destination with over 180 stores and restaurants.
- Location: 2800 W Big Beaver Rd, Troy, MI 48084
- Nearest Major City: Detroit
- Website: thesomersetcollection.com
- Phone: (248) 643-6360
- Visitor Interests: Luxury retailers (Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, Gucci, etc.), a wide selection of other high-end stores, fine dining.
Great Lakes Crossing Outlets
The largest outlet mall in Michigan, this indoor shopping center offers a mix of outlet stores, traditional retailers, and entertainment venues. It is known for its value-oriented shopping.
- Location: 4000 Baldwin Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
- Nearest Major City: Detroit
- Website: greatlakescrossingoutlets.com
- Phone: (248) 454-5000
- Visitor Interests: Outlet shopping, entertainment options like Sea Life Michigan Aquarium and Legoland Discovery Center, a large food court.
Downtown Ann Arbor
The vibrant and walkable downtown of this classic college town is a major shopping destination. It is filled with independent bookstores, unique gift shops, art galleries, and a diverse array of restaurants.
- Location: Centered around Main Street and State Street, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
- Nearest Major City: Ann Arbor
- Visitor Interests: Independent bookstores like Literati and Dawn Treader, Zingerman's Deli, unique boutiques and gift shops, the Kerrytown Market & Shops.
Frankenmuth
Known as "Michigan's Little Bavaria," this entire town is a tourist and shopping destination. It is famous for Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store, and numerous other shops selling German-themed goods, cheese, and fudge.
- Location: Frankenmuth, MI 48734
- Nearest Major City: Saginaw
- Visitor Interests: Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, Bavarian-themed shops, fudge and cheese shops, dining at the town's famous chicken dinner restaurants.
Downtown Traverse City
The charming downtown of this northern Michigan city is set on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay. Front Street is lined with a variety of unique boutiques, art galleries, outdoor outfitters, and excellent restaurants.
- Location: Front Street, Traverse City, MI 49684
- Nearest Major City: Traverse City
- Visitor Interests: Boutique shopping, art galleries, sampling local food products, visiting the historic State Theatre.