The Best Places in Michigan for a Weekend Getaway

Fortunately, in this big old United States, there are lots of places where you can go to unwind and detach from the myriad cares and worries of today. And if you so happen to be in the state of Michigan, you’re in luck, because there’s plenty of vibrant, charming places and destinations for a relaxing and fulfilling weekend getaway.

Indeed, Michigan is a treasure trove – it’s filled with stunning landscapes, charming small towns, and vibrant cities, making it the perfect destination for the perfect weekend retreat. So if you are looking to recharge your batteries, whether you're seeking an outdoor adventure, unique cultural experiences, or a peaceful retreat at the perfect home away from home, the Great Lakes State has something to offer. Let’s have a look at some of the best places in Michigan to escape for a perfect weekend break, either with family, friends, or that significant other.

1. Traverse City – A wine lover’s paradise

• Where to stay: Delamar Traverse City, Cherry Tree Inn & Suites, Bayshore Resort
• Activities to enjoy: Hiking, wine tasting, jet skiing, swimming, sailing, biking
• Attractions to see: Traverse City State Park, the Manitou (a schooner offering passages), The City Opera House, Grand Traverse Bay, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Nestled along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is a dream destination for wine lovers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The area is nicknamed The Cherry Capital of the World, well-known for its cherry trees and fantastic cherry harvest – if you want to experience the cherry season first-hand, head to Traverse in July, when it holds the annual National Cherry Festival. But the region is also home to the Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula, both renowned for their award-winning wineries. You can definitely spend a fine weekend sampling local wines, dining at farm-to-table restaurants, and exploring the charming downtown area. In the warmer months, you can enjoy the scenic beaches or take a boat tour or a sailing tour. You can hike the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, known for its breathtaking views over Lake Michigan. There is no shortage of activities in Traverse City, whether you want to cater to your craving for adventure or simply want to while away the hours doing absolutely nothing.

2. Mackinac Island – A step back in time

• Where to stay: Island House Hotel, Mission Point Resort, Hotel Iroquois
• Activities to enjoy: Golfing, carriage tours, biking, visiting museums and forts (Fort Holmes and Fort Mackinac), sailing and boating, parasailing
• Attractions to see: The Grand Hotel (with the longest hotel porch in the world at around 660 feet), Round Island Lighthouse, Marquette Park, Arch Rock

For a truly unique escape, Mackinac Island is an unforgettable destination. The entire island – which is located in Lake Huron - is car-free and it is accessible only by ferry, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with its historic sites, horse-drawn carriages, and stunning Victorian architecture. You can opt to spend your weekend exploring Fort Mackinac or you can go biking around the island’s perimeter. But one other way to enjoy Mackinac Island is indulging in the famous Mackinac Island fudge! Make sure to visit The Grand Hotel, with its stunning porch and rich history – it is a definite must-visit for anyone looking to experience old-world luxury.

3. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – A nature lover’s retreat

• Where to stay: The Homestead, Sylvan Inn, Stony Brook Lodge, The Inn
• Activities to enjoy: Climbing the dune, hiking, camping, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, fishing
• Attractions to see: Philip A. Hart Visitor Center, Glen Haven Village, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Dune Climb

If you’re looking for a weekend filled with outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the perfect spot. It is located in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, and the towering sand dunes offer incredible hiking opportunities, including the popular Dune Climb, where you can challenge yourself with a steep ascent and be rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Michigan. But it’s not all dunes – it’s got an abundance of forests and beaches as well, and it even has stunning glacial features. You can kayak on Crystal River, explore the quaint villages of Glen Arbor and Empire, or simply relax on the pristine beaches – all these activities make for a memorable weekend getaway. If camping under the stars is your thing, you can also go camping in Sleeping Dunes, which was named the Most Beautiful Place in America in 2011 by Good Morning America.

4. Ann Arbor – Arts, Culture, and Food

• Where to stay: Stone Chalet Bed & Breakfast & Inn, Residence Inn Ann Arbor, Double Tree by Hilton Ann Arbor North
• Activities to enjoy: strolling, bar hopping, dining, scavenger hunting, visiting the farmer’s markets, seeing a show
• Attractions to see: Buhr Park, Fuller Recreation Area, The Nichols Arboretum, Matthaei Botanical Gardens, Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, Kerrytown

For those who love vibrant cities with a rich cultural scene, Ann Arbor is a top choice. Located along the Huron River and home to the University of Michigan, this lively college town boasts an eclectic mix of art galleries, bookstores, and music venues. If you want to feel a bit of the culture and vibe of the city, The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and the University of Michigan Museum of Art offer great cultural experiences. But if you want to experience the city’s food scene, you can explore the famous Zingerman’s Deli, known for its delicious sandwiches, or enjoy a fine dining experience at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants. Don’t miss a leisurely stroll through the Nichols Arboretum, especially during fall when the foliage is stunning.

5. Detroit – A city revived

• Where to stay: ROOST Detroit, MGM Grand Detroit, The Siren Hotel
• Activities to enjoy: Bar-hopping, watching a sports game, walking tours, helicopter tours; strolling, cycling, and running at the Detroit Riverfront
• Attractions to see: The Detroit International Riverfront, Belle Isle Park, Greektown (a casino and entertainment hub), Comerica Park, Motown Museum

Once known as the Motor City, Detroit, the most populated city in Michigan, has undergone an incredible transformation in recent years - making it a fantastic weekend destination. You can start by visiting the Detroit Institute of Arts, then explore the historic Motown Museum and take in the city's rich musical heritage. The revitalized Riverwalk offers beautiful views of the Detroit River, while the Eastern Market is perfect for foodies looking to sample local flavors. If you are a sports fan, you can also catch a game at Comerica Park (home to the Detroit Tigers) or Ford Field (home to the Detroit Lions).

6. Grand Rapids – Beer City USA

• Where to stay: The Leonard at Logan House, Peaches Bed & Breakfast, Canopy by Hilton Grand Rapids Downtown
• Activities to enjoy: visiting parks, gardens, and museums, shopping, experiencing the nightlife, bar-hopping, dining
• Attractions to see: The Calvin Ecosystem Preserve and Nature Gardens, The Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Heritage Hill Historic District, Fulton Street Market

If you love craft beer, Grand Rapids, situated along the Grand River, should be on your weekend getaway list! Known as Beer City USA, the city, located in Kent County, boasts a thriving brewery scene, including the formerly-mentioned Founders Brewing Co. and Brewery Vivant. But aside from the thriving breweries and nightlife, Grand Rapids offers a fantastic art scene, with the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park as well as the Heritage Hill Historic District and Fulton Street Market being major highlights. The downtown area is lively and full of great restaurants, boutique shops, and entertainment options, making it an excellent city escape.

7. Holland – A superb taste of the Netherlands

• Where to stay: Tulyp, Tapestry Collection by Hilton; Centennial Inn, Teerman Lofts
• Activities to enjoy: walking tours, swimming, biking, strolling downtown, watching a show, visiting the museums
• Attractions to see: The Holland Museum, Tulip Time Festival, Windmill Island (home to a 250-year old Dutch windmill), Dutch Village, Holland State Park Beach, Tunnel Park Beach

If you want a charming and picturesque weekend getaway, Holland, Michigan, is a fantastic option for you. Holland is between Allegan and Ottawa counties, and, just like its namesake, it is famous for its Tulip Time Festival in the spring. The city boasts Dutch-inspired architecture, windmills, and authentic cuisine, as it was founded by Dutch Americans as far back as 1847. Even outside of tulip season, visitors can explore Windmill Island Gardens, relax on the sandy shores of Holland State Park, and enjoy local breweries and cideries. The city's quaint downtown is also perfect for a leisurely strolling, shopping, and dining experience.

8. Charlevoix – A fairytale escape

• Where to stay: The Earl in Charlevoix, Charlevoix Inn & Suites by Best Western, Charlevoix House
• Activities to enjoy: Swimming, fishing, rock hunting and beachcombing, wine touring, exploring the quaint small towns and coves, sailing, boating, hiking, golfing
• Attractions to see: Fisherman’s Island State Park, Castle Farms, Michigan Beach Park, Hungry Ducks Farm, Depot Beach, Mushroom Houses

With its unique architecture, scenic beauty, and waterfront charm, Charlevoix – dubbed Charlevoix the Beautiful by tourists and locals alike - is often compared to a fairytale setting. It is actually on an isthmus located between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan, and the town is renowned for its Mushroom Houses, designed by architect Earl Young. It is also known for its picturesque harbor and sandy beaches. You can spend your weekend exploring the many boutique shops, dining at waterfront restaurants, or taking a boat cruise on Lake Charlevoix. If you love being in the midst of nature, the nearby Jordan River Valley offers excellent hiking opportunities for nature lovers as well.

9. Petoskey – Authentic Victorian charm and stunning sunsets

• Where to stay: Stafford’s Bay View Inn, Inn at Bay Harbour, Autograph Collection; Apple Tree Inn by Best Western
• Activities to enjoy: Hiking, biking, boating, shopping, kayaking, dining, hunting for Petoskey stones, golfing, swimming, camping, wine touring and tasting
• Attractions to see: Lavender Hill Farm, Bayfront Park, Petoskey State Park, The Gaslight District, Petoskey Farms Vineyard & Winery, Odawa Casino

Petoskey is a gem along Michigan’s northwest coast, and it is the largest city and county seat of Emmet County. It offers stunning lake views, historic architecture, and outdoor recreation – in fact, it is known for its Million Dollar Sunsets. The town is also famous for Petoskey stones - fossilized coral unique to the region, so why not hunt for them at a rocky beach like Petoskey State Park? You can also visit Bayfront Park, explore the historic Gaslight District, or take a scenic drive along M-119’s Tunnel of Trees, which is especially beautiful in autumn. If you are visiting Petoskey in the winter, nearby Boyne Mountain Resort offers excellent skiing and snowboarding options.

10. Saugatuck – Artistic splendor and beachside bliss

• Where to stay: The Belvedere Inn & Restaurant, The Swallow, Nightingale
• Activities to enjoy: Camping, hiking, biking, snowboarding and skiing in season, hunting, horseback riding, riverboat touring, scavenger hunting, kayaking, canoeing, dune riding
• Attractions to see: Saugatuck Dunes State Park, Allegan State Game Area, Oval Beach, Butler Street, Mount Baldhead Park

Known as Michigan’s Art Coast, Saugatuck, a city in Allegan County, is a known haven for art lovers and beachgoers alike. The town is filled with art galleries, studios, and boutiques, as well as marinas, harbors, and unusual shops. Oval Beach, often ranked as one of the best beaches in the country, is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy Lake Michigan’s beauty. You should also take a dune ride at the Saugatuck Dunes State Park or you can cruise along the Kalamazoo River – and afterwards, dine at one of the many waterfront restaurants for an unforgettable weekend.