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This is the Most Mind-Blowing Place in Michigan to Visit

Author Anne Erickson
Getty Images/ Maksim Safaniuk

If you always go to the same vacation spots, it can get mundane. So, when you’re wrapping up your summer vacation plans this season, why not head to a mind-blowing spot? Here, we present the most mind-blowing place in Michigan to visit.

The mind-blowing study comes from Meganstarr.com, which has ranked the most mind-blowing places to visit in the state. They note that Michigan is “most famous for its wintertime destinations full of activities for skiers and snowboarders, but even if you just want to enjoy the state’s nature or check out all the sites the state has to offer, you’re in for a great adventure.” They add that “Michigan is one of the best places to visit any time of the year.” I totally agree. But, I also think Michigan is best to visit in the summer.

Before we get to the No. 1 most mind-blowing place in Michigan to visit, let’s look at No. 2. They suggest Saugatuck, which is a beautiful beach town along Lake Michigan. I’ve been to Saugatuck many times, and I agree that it’s a mind-blowing spot. The town has lots of little, seasonable shops, and it’s really adorable. I’ve also been there in the dead of winter, and only a few shops were open, so it was a totally different scene. They did have a coffee shop open, which was important.

So, what’s the most mind-blowing place in Michigan to visit? It’s the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary. Of the spot, Meganstarr.com states, “Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary is home to one of the last old-growth white pine stands in Michigan. It’s a beautiful place to unwind and enjoy a relaxing time in Michigan along with stunning nature views.” They add that the area’s two main trails are spectacular. That’s truly a great pick. Find the full list of the most mind-blowing places to visit in Michigan here.

10 Adorable Michigan Small Towns to Visit Any Season

  • 10. South Haven

    South Haven is one of my favorite Michigan spots, no matter the season. My uncle lives around that area, and it’s simply breathtaking. The beach town is right on the eastern shores of Lake Michigan, in the southwest part of the state. Its population is just over 4,000 residents, but it seems way larger during the summer months, as it’s a very popular tourist destination.

    Welcome to South Haven, Michigan | South Haven Visitors Bureau

    From the beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan to the eclectic eateries, award-winning wineries, quaint boutiques and the natural scenic surroundings - there's

  • 9. Frankenmuth

    I already mentioned Frankenmuth as being the Christmas hotspot of the world. It’s truly a wonder in the winter months, and it’s great in the summer, too. Some popular activates when visiting Frankenmuth include dating a carriage ride, going on a river cruise, trying the different German food, drinking some German beer, snacking on fudge and more.

    Frankenmuth Michigan | Frankenmuth

    Frankenmuth is a Michigan vacation destination with plenty of fun things to do. We have great restaurants, shopping, festivals, and events. Learn more.

  • 8. Northville

    Northville is located 30 miles northwest of Detroit, between Wayne and Oakland Counties, and truly has a great small town feel. You’ll find lots to do in downtown Northville, too, including shopping, dining, and live entertainment. It’s a fun stop for those on the east side of the state.

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  • 7. Holland

    Holland is on the west side of the state, and it’s famous for its Dutch heritage. Who hasn’t heard of the Tulip Festival? It’s a popular spring event that draws people from all over the world. Holland is a charming town to visit any time of the year, though.

    Holland

    Holland is best known for its Dutch heritage, evident in many of its attractions and events. Visitors can walk back through time in the Dutch Galleries of the Holland Museum, the renovated splendor of the Cappon House and a recreation of 1890s Netherlands at Nelis' Dutch Village.

  • 6. Paradise is located in the Upper Peninsula about 70 miles northwest of the Mackinac Bridge.

    Paradise really is, well, paradise. The small town is located in the Upper Peninsula about 70 miles northwest of the Mackinac Bridge. It’s surrounded by water, as Paradise has Lake Superior to its north and east, the Tahquamenon Falls State Park to its west, and the National Hiawatha Forest to its south, as noted by Pure Michigan.

    Paradise

    Spend the day at Whitefish Bay on sandy beaches with great views of Lake Superior.Uncover hidden treasures at the Shipwreck Museum, ranked one of the top ten mari-time museums in the world.

  • 5. Saugatuck

    Saugatuck is another one of my favorite spots to visit year-round. My uncle lives fairly close to there, so I visit the small shops in the summer. Even though some of those shops are closed in the summer, it’s still a beautiful area to visit anytime. It’s off Lake Michigan.

    Visit Saugatuck Michigan - Saugatuck

    For a getaway that's rich in both recreation and relaxation, explore Saugatuck/Douglas and discover your ultimate escape.

  • 4. Ludington

    Ludington has plenty of beautiful beaches. This small town is on the coast of Lake Michigan and offers lots of beach area, outdoors activities and more. Stearns Park Beach is a popular spot.

    Visit Ludington Michigan - Visit Ludington

    Visit Ludington in West Michigan! Home to two lighthouses and the S.S. Badger carferry, Ludington is a favorite place for visitors & locals!

  • 3. Pentwater

    Another special spot on the west side of the state is Pentwater. This little village is off Lake Michigan and offers pristine, sandy beaches. It’s also smaller than Ludington, but nearby, so if you want a smaller place to escape while in the area, it’s a good pick.

    Pentwater, MI

    Discover Pentwater. Come for a day. A week. A life. Pentwater, Michigan - the village, township and surrounding area - is a quintessential, old-fashioned, laid back community with a rich history on the shores of Lake Michigan's clear waters and sugar-fine sandy beaches. It surrounds a 500-acre inland lake that's fed by a vibrant river.

  • 2. Marquette

    Going up north, Marquette is a choice spot for a trip. Since it’s so far north, it’s very cold in the winter, but if you love snow, then it’s a great choice. Marquette offers lots of nature and outdoor activities.

    Marquette, Michigan | Hotels, Restaurants & Things To Do

    Experience the fun and adventure in Marquette, Michigan. Find comfortable hotels, great dining options, and attractions both in town and out to explore.

  • 1. Petoskey

    Coming in at No. 1, I have Petoskey as a must-visit destination no matter the season. I remember as a little kid, going up to Petoskey and getting a real Petoskey stone. One of the bets spots to hunt for local stones is at Petoskey State Park. Enjoy it.

    The Petoskey Area

    Petoskey is located on the shores of Lake Michigan's beautiful Little Traverse Bay in northwest lower Michigan. Long a resort area, Petoskey is known for its fresh air, spectacular beauty and, of course, Michigan's state stone, the Petoskey Stone.

Anne Erickson started her radio career shortly after graduating from Michigan State University and has worked on-air in Detroit, Flint, Toledo, Lansing and beyond. As someone who absolutely loves rock, metal and alt music, she instantly fell in love with radio and hasn’t looked back. When she’s not working, Anne makes her own music with her band, Upon Wings, and she also loves cheering on her favorite Detroit and Michigan sports teams, especially Lions and MSU football. Anne is also an award-winning journalist, and her byline has run in a variety of national publications. You can also hear her weekends on WRIF.

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