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Best Things To Do In Michigan
Michigan is one of the most important states of the US in terms of its tourist attractions. This state is filled with a number of places which make it an ideal place to visit.
This article will help you figure out the places that you must visit in the US state of Michigan. We hope you have fun exploring.
Must-Visit Attractions In Michigan
Michigan is filled with tourist spaces that are ideal to visit. Here is a list of some of those places which you must consider on your visit to Michigan, US.
1.Mackinac Island
Take a ferry ride to reach Mackinac Island, where it would seem as if the time has stopped. This place is devoid of any modern means of transportation and prefers horse-drawn carriages. The island is 4.35 square miles in area and is located at the eastern end of the Straits of Mackinac.
Here on the island, you can rent a bike and travel around the island. If you have time, you must visit the Grand Hotel, which is one of the most famous places on Mackinac Island. If you are into forts, you must take a carriage ride to Fort Mackinac.
2.Michigan State Capitol
Built in the year 1879, the Michigan State Capitol is one of the most important buildings in the state of Michigan. It is one of the most important buildings in the state as it is used by many government agencies.
However, this place is open to tours and we would recommend you to visit it. The building of the Michigan State Capitol is an architectural marvel piece and will certainly leave you spellbound.
3.University Of Michigan
Located at Ann Arbor, the University of Michigan covers an area of 2800 acres of space. You must visit the University of Michigan if you wish to capture the essence of Michigan. Another reason for visiting could be that you will find a number of Gothic buildings which are bound to amaze you.
You would also find some very interesting museums here, for instance, the Kelsey Archaeology Museum, the Museum of Art, and the Museum of Natural History. A visit to the University of Michigan will take you back to your college years and we highly recommend you to visit it.
4.Windmill Island
One of the best things to do in Michigan is to take a trip to Windmill Island. Located in Holland, Windmill Island is famous for its 250-year old windmill named, windmill De Zwaan. It is the only working Dutch windmill that you will find in the entire United States of America.
Every year in the month of May, there is a festival organized in Windmill Island called Tulip Time Festival. Visitors flock to the place during the island to take in the view of the beautiful tulips. Windmill Island Gardens is also one of the major attractions of the place.
Covering an area of 36 acres, this place is used to organize a number of festivals all over the year. This is an ideal place to visit if you are looking for things to do that involve spending some time appreciating nature.
5.Michigan’s Adventure
One of the best things to do in Michigan is to visit Michigan’s Adventure. This place is famous for being the largest amusement and water park in Michigan. Spread over an area of 250 acres, this place is made for the adrenaline junkies who are looking to do indulge in some outdoor activities.
This is a must-visit place if you are taking the trip with children as the park is built in a way that will certainly appease them. The park has 52 rides, which will leave you wheezing but asking for more. If you do not like to ride, you can check out their outdoor water park.
There are 7 roller coaster rides in the park which is one of its major attractions. A visit to Michigan’s Adventure will prove to be a break from your monotonous routine and will leave you tired but satiated.
6.Mackinac Bridge
The Mackinac Bridge is one of the most famous markers of Michigan and is a must-visit place. The suspension bridge connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of the state of Michigan. It is the 24th-longest main span and is known for its grandeur.
This place is a famous spot amongst the localities and the tourists and is referred to as “Big Mac” and “Mighty Mac”. The bridge also has a museum dedicated to it which contains information about its construction. Mackinac Bridge is a sight to behold in itself and we highly recommend you to visit it.
7.Fisher Building
Located at 3011 West Grand Boulevard, the Fisher Building is one of the most important buildings in Detroit, Michigan. This 30-storeyed building was built in the year 1928 by architect Albert Kahn.
The building is also a part of the National Historic Landmark. The building is home to Fisher Theatre, which in itself is a marvel and worth a visit. Visit this theatre if you wish to catch Broadway shows.
8.Isle Royale National Park
Spread over an area of 430 acres, the Isle Royale National Park is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Michigan. This park was formed by the glaciers during the glaciers.
It is a part of the UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve. The Isle Royale National Park is a sight to behold and will be one of the best places that you will visit in Michigan.
9.Michigan Central Station
Known by the name of Michigan Central Depot, this is one of the most famous rail depots in Detroit, Michigan. The Michigan Central Station is known for being a symbol of the history of Michigan and thus carries immense cultural significance.
The station was earlier adorned by graffitis, which have now been removed. There are conjectures that the Michigan Central Station could be demolished by the government and its future is considered uncertain.
10.Belle Isle Park
Known famously as the Bell Isle, this place is one of the must-visit places in Detroit, Michigan. Covering an area of around 982 acres, this park was developed in the late 19th century. Situated in the Detroit River, a visit to this park makes for an ideal outdoor experience.
Here you can admire the vessels in the Yacht Club and take in the view of the stunning Windsor and Detroit. So if you are looking for get-away places to visit with your family, this is your chance.
11.Palmer Woods
The Palmer Woods Historic District is a residential historic district in Detroit, which has caught the eye of many tourists over the years. People visit this place to take in the view of the splendid buildings of the neighborhood.
Here you will find a number of Tudor Revival and neo-Georgian style buildings which will leave you enchanted.
12.Greektown
Looking for fun places to visit with your friends in Michigan? Greektown could be just the place for you. This district is known for its commercial and entertainment options and is an ideal place for people who are looking for a fun time.
There are a number of things that you can do in Greektown and it is an ideal place for a night out. If you are looking for some Greek restaurants, you should check out Pegasus Taverna and Golden Fleece. You should also take out time to visit the famous Greektown Casino, which is the major attraction of the place and comes with the promise of a testified good-time.
If you are looking to visit some bars, you have plenty of options to choose from. We would recommend to you the Flood’s Bar & Grille and Delux Lounge. A visit to Greektown, Detroit will be one of the best things that you will do in Michigan and will give you good memories for a lifetime.
13.Detroit Zoo
A visit to Detroit Zoo is one of the best things to do in Michigan. The Detroit Zoo is located in Royal Oak and Huntington Woods, about two miles north of Detroit city. If you enjoy nature and watching animals, this is the right place for you.
Covering an area of about 125 acres, the zoo is home to over 2400 animals, that come from around 235 species. The zoo uses barless exhibitions and is the first zoo in the United States of America to do so. The zoo is also famous for its world’s largest exhibit known as “The Arctic Circle of Life.”
Museums To Visit In Michigan
One of the must things to do in Michigan is to visit its museums. Here is a list of museums that you must visit when in Michigan.
1.Michigan History Center
Are you interested in knowing the history of Michigan? If yes, there is no better place for you to visit than the Michigan History Center. Here, you shall be able to learn about the history of Michigan from prehistoric settlers right up to the 20th century.
In order to make this information exciting to its visitors, the place organizes a number of events all round the year. This is an ideal place to visit if you are looking to visit a place where you can learn more about the state.
2.Detroit Institute Of Arts
Abbreviated as DIA, this is one of the places to must-visit in Midtown Detroit, Michigan. Built over an area of 658,000 square feet, the Detroit Institute of Arts encompasses over 100 galleries.
This museum has it all, as its collection spans from ancient Egyptian and European to contemporary artifacts. The museum frequently organizes events and programs to help the visitors engage with the museum in a better way.
3.Motown Historical Museum
The Motown Historical Museum was established in the year 1959 and is a testament to the rich history of the music of Motown. This museum is frequented by music lovers, who are majorly attracted to the museum’s Studio A.
It was here that where Berry Gordy resided which his family and recorded some excellent music along with his fellow musicians. Here you will find a number of artifacts that have preserved the legacy of Motown Record Company. If you are interested in knowing about Motown, this is the right place for you.
4.Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
Located at the Whitefish Point Station, the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is one of the must-visit museums in Michigan. Here at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, you will artifacts of shipwrecks from the Whitefish Point Underwater Preserve and the SS Edmund Fitzgerald.
A visit to the museum will help you acquaint yourself to life at the sea. This is an interesting place to visit for people who are interested in marine life.
Places To Eat At In Michigan
Check out the below list to eat in Michigan-
1.American Coney Island
There a lot of amazing restaurants in Michigan and it is indeed hard to choose one over another. However, American Coney Island certainly stands out and is one of the must-visit restaurants in Michigan.
The restaurant has been in operation since 1917 has gained a reputation for its hot dogs. The residents and tourists of Detroit swear by the American Coney Island Hot Dog and we highly recommend it to you.
2.Morley Candy Company
Not a restaurant but this place is one of the most famous in Michigan and is certainly worth a visit. This confectionery company is based in the Clinton Township of Michigan and was founded in the year 1919.
It is famous all over Michigan for its chocolates and peanut butter blocks. This place is a paradise for people who have sweet tooth. We recommend you to check out this place and eat to your fill.
3.Lula’s Louisiana Cookhouse
Lula’s Louisiana Cookhouse is located in the Shiawassee Country town and is known for its fried chicken. If you like eating chicken and cannot get enough of it, this is definitely the place for you to visit.
The restaurant is owned by John Beilfuss and his partner, Morgan who are dedicated to providing the best food experience to the visitors and are proud of their “made-from-scratch” chicken.
4. Amore Trattoria Italiana
If you are looking for a fine-dining experience in Michigan then you should head straight to the Amore Trattoria Italiana. This place is ideal for a date-night as the staff is dedicated to customizing their service as per the needs of their customers.
The place has a bar, which has an all-Italian wine list. Next, you can choose your food from their extensive menu, which will certainly leave you satiated. They also have a full vegetarian and vegan menu that you can choose from.
The word ‘amore’ means perfect in Italian and this restaurant will surely live up to its name. If you are craving an Italian experience in Michigan, there is no place better than Amore Trattoria Italiana.
The restaurant is famous among both the locals and the tourists so it is slightly difficult to procure a seat by simply walking-in. So, before you decide to eat at Amore Trattoria Italiana, we recommend you to reserve your table well in time.
Places To Shop At In Michigan
Places to shop in Michigan are as follows-
1.Detroit’s Eastern Market
Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Detroit’s Eastern Market is one of the major tourist destinations in Michigan. Visit this market to buy the fresh products produced by the local farmers of Michigan.
This is an ideal place to shop for your groceries as you can be assured of its quality. To add to the charm, there are a number of shops in the market, so there is no dearth of variety.
The place also has a number of eateries, where you can spend your time indulging in a light lunch, once you are done with your shopping. Detroit’s Eastern Market will introduce you to the spirit of Detroit and we highly recommend it.
2.Flint Farmer’s Market
A one-stop destination for food and entertainment, the Flint Farmer’s Market is one of the best places to visit in Michigan. Here you will find over fifty vendors who are engaged in selling fresh farm products.
All these products are locally produced in the farms of Michigan and are sure to be of good quality. If you like visiting Detroit’s Eastern Market, you will surely enjoy the Flint Farmer’s Market as both of them are similar in terms of their products.
Please also read about things to do in Southern Maine.