Whether you’re trying to limit travel expenses or wanting to experience hidden gems in your region, the Wolverine State offers incredible adventures in every region! Keep reading to discover some of our favorite road trips in Michigan!
For more information on the best things to do and places to see, be sure to request access to our complimentary Michigan Vacation Guide!
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Discover the Top Road Trips in Michigan
To the Beach
Who doesn’t love a weekend retreat to the beach? This is one of our favorite road trips in Michigan, especially for families with younger children. A good portion of West Michigan’s coastline is home to beautiful beaches, especially between New Buffalo and Holland. Aside from relaxing on the soft sands along Lake Michigan, you can bike, paddleboard, explore Warren Dunes State Park, or even go for an exciting dune buggy ride!
Check out our Explore West Michigan Page for even more ways to make the most of your beach road trip!
To the Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula is home to outdoor adventures galore! If you’re having trouble deciding where to take a road trip in Michigan, the UP offers arguably the most unique experience in the state. Stunning waterfalls, state parks, wineries, and more await you in this quiet and secluded wilderness that seems like it’s worlds away from the Wolverine State. This is one of the best places to see fall colors bloom, and there are tons of winter activities like skiing and snowmobiling throughout the area. It’s definitely a road trip that you will not want to miss!
Check out our Explore the Upper Peninsula Page for even more ways to make the most of your beach road trip!
To the Serene Backcountry
If you want to escape from the rest of the world, a road trip to Eastern Michigan may be just what you need. This serene region of the Wolverine State is full of small towns, forests, and the Au Sable River. Fishing and hiking are among some of the top activities in the area, but the central attraction here is the ability to relax with no one in sight. It’s a getaway like no other.
Check out our Explore the Eastern Michigan Page for even more ways to make the most of your beach road trip!
To the Fun-Filled Coast
A road trip to Northern Michigan is fun for both families and couples. The main hub here is Traverse City, where restaurants, entertainment, and the waterfront provide tons of opportunities for visitors of all ages. You can venture out from there to explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, countless state parks, lighthouses, and much more.
Check out our Explore the Northern Michigan Page for even more ways to make the most of your beach road trip!
Where Are You Traveling From?
Whether you’re traveling from Southern Ohio or South Bend, Indiana, a road trip to Michigan is just what you need.
Michigan
You don’t have to leave the Wolverine State to have some fun! Escape the hustle and bustle of Detroit and Lansing and relax in the peaceful wilderness of the UP or Northern Michigan.
- Detroit
- Lansing
Illinois
Trade the crowds and traffic of the Windy City for the beaches and rivers of our beautiful state. It’s just a quick hop, skip, and a jump over the state border into West Michigan!
- Chicago
Ohio
If you don’t mind the drive, an escape from the Buckeye State is just what you need. Don’t worry, we won’t hold it against you for being Ohio State fans!
- Columbus
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Toledo
Indiana
Hop in the car and take a trip from Indiana to the quiet shores of the Au Sable River in Eastern Michigan.
- South Bend
- Indianapolis
- Fort Wayne
Discover the Ultimate Michigan Adventure
Find your home away from home with Freshwater Vacation Rentals! Browse our Michigan rentals by their area to see our collection of cottages, cabins, and homes that are perfect for family road trips throughout the state. Wherever you choose to go, you’ll find the adventure of a lifetime waiting for you.
Start planning your Michigan getaway today by booking one of our rentals! We look forward to welcoming you to the Freshwater family.