With its diverse landscapes and welcoming communities, Michigan is a fantastic destination for pet lovers. From scenic trails and beaches to charming towns that embrace your furry friends, there’s no shortage of pet-friendly activities in the Great Lakes State.
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When traveling with a pet, following leash laws and cleaning up after your pet is essential. The pet owner is responsible for verifying pet-friendly places for themselves. Following those few simple courtesies will help ensure places of business and recreation remain open to well-behaved dogs and their people.
Pack your bags, leash up your pup, and prepare for a tail-wagging adventure.
Explore these fun things to do with pets in Michigan.
1. Lakeshore Trails
Michigan boasts a myriad of pet-friendly trails, especially along its picturesque lakeshores. Take a stroll with your four-legged companion on the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you’ll encounter sandy paths and stunning views of Lake Michigan. For a more forested experience, head to the North Country Trail, offering miles of wooded trails where your pup can roam freely. Click here for the best hikes in east Michigan.
2. Dog-Friendly Beaches
Unleash your dog’s inner water enthusiast at Michigan’s dog-friendly beaches. Oval Beach in Saugatuck is a popular spot where your pet can frolic in the waves and enjoy the sun-drenched sands. Grand Haven City Beach and Holland State Park Beach also welcome leashed pets, making for a memorable day by the water for you and your furry friend. For more great beaches in western Michigan, click here.
3. Pet-Friendly Breweries
Michigan’s craft beer scene is for more than just two-legged enthusiasts. Many breweries across the state welcome well-behaved pets in their outdoor seating areas. Sip on a locally crafted brew while your pup relaxes by your side at pet-friendly spots like Bell’s Brewery in Kalamazoo or Founders Brewing Co. in Grand Rapids. The Upper Peninsula is full of excellent breweries. Click here to see ten of them!
4. Mackinac Island
Explore the historic charm of Mackinac Island with your pet by your side. While pets are not allowed in most indoor attractions, the island offers scenic carriage roads and hiking trails where you can enjoy the stunning views of Lake Huron with your furry friend. Remember to stop by Doud’s Market, where you can pick up some treats for you and your pet. Pet-friendly activities abound on Mackinac Island.
5. Pet-Friendly Wineries
Indulge in Michigan’s wine culture without leaving your pet behind. Several wineries in the state welcome pets on their grounds. Plan a visit to Chateau Chantal on the Old Mission Peninsula or Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery in Traverse City, where your leashed pet can join you for a relaxing afternoon of wine tasting. Click here for eight of the best wineries on the UP.
6. Detroit’s Dequindre Cut Greenway
In the heart of Detroit, the Dequindre Cut Greenway offers an urban oasis for pet owners. This converted rail line provides a pedestrian and pet-friendly pathway adorned with vibrant street art. It’s a perfect spot for an on-leash walk or jog, allowing you and your pet to enjoy the city’s unique blend of nature and culture.
7. Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Many vacation rentals in Michigan cater to pet owners. From cozy cottages to luxurious lakefront estates, there are accommodations to suit every style. Look for pet-friendly options that provide amenities like green spaces and pet towels. Be sure to read property descriptions thoroughly for size/weight limits, the maximum number of pets allowed, pet fees, and other details. When in doubt, call the vacation rental company to discuss any concerns or questions.
You can click below to see the pet-friendly vacation rentals offered throughout Michigan by Freshwater Vacation Rentals. Exploring the best things to do with pets is easily accessible from your home away from home.
As you embark on your pet-friendly journey through Michigan, please remember to check local regulations and guidelines to make sure you have a seamless experience. Whether exploring the great outdoors, relaxing on a beach, or sipping on local brews with your pet by your side, Michigan offers a wealth of pet-friendly activities that will create lasting memories for you and your furry companion. So, leash up, hit the trails, and let the adventures unfold in this pet-friendly paradise.