Northern Michigan is the ultimate playground for families searching for something a little different. The beautiful spring weather allows you to get out and explore towering dunes, sail to a one-of-a-kind island, and gaze at the untouched night sky. Keep reading to discover more of our favorite spring activities in Northern Michigan!
If you want to make the most of your time in our great state, be sure to request access to our complimentary Vacation Guide. It’s full of the best things to do and places to see in each region, including Northern Michigan!
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The Best Spring Activities in Northern Michigan
Explore State Parks and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Soaking in the gorgeous views of Lake Michigan from atop the towering dunes at this incredible park is one of the best spring activities in Northern Michigan. It’s only about a 45-minute drive from Traverse City, making it the perfect place to enjoy a picnic with the family on a beautiful spring afternoon. You can also find over a half-dozen state parks dotting the region that offer hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities.
Spend a Day on Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of normal city life on a beautiful spring day. The only transportation on the island is by horse and carriage, bike, or foot. The quaint and charming town looks like it was pulled straight out of a Disney movie, with 19th-century style buildings line the main street full of shops. The grand Victorian-style Grand Hotel sits overlooks the town and Lake Michigan. Cap off your time here with a stroll through the gorgeous halls and enjoy the views while sitting on a rocking chair on the vast porch spanning the entire hotel.
Watch the Night Sky at Headlands International Dark Sky Park
Little to no light pollution make this patch of land along Lake Michigan the perfect place for viewing the night sky. Headlands International Dark Sky Park provides programs and events to teach guests about stargazing and much more! The beautiful spring weather allows you to stay up late and gaze at the stars without the freezing cold during the winter months!
Discover Charlevoix’s Unique Mushroom Houses
Wedged in between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan is the small town of Charlevoix. From the outside, you probably wouldn’t look twice at this community, but a few oddball architectural marvels put it on the map. A series of mushroom-shaped houses spread throughout the Charlevoix makes for one of the most fascinating and fun spring activities in Northern Michigan.
Plan Your Spring Vacation to the Wolverine State
Whether you want to tour lakeside towns, take long walks on the beach, or explore stunning waterfalls, Freshwater Vacation Rentals has the perfect property for you and your family. We offer an array of rentals across the state, from the Upper Peninsula to Western Michigan. Of course, if you’re staying in the Northern Michigan area, you can check out our cabin & vacation home rentals and the Things to Do page, highlighting the top activities and attractions.
Start planning your trip to the Wolverine State today by booking one of our properties. We look forward to welcoming you to the Freshwater Vacation Rentals family.