12 Unimaginably Beautiful Places In Michigan That You Must See Before You Die (2024)

Posted in Michigan Nature March 31, 2023by Sophie Boudreau

It’s no secret that Michigan is simply overflowing with gorgeous places to explore. From coast to coast, our state is one of the most naturally delightful spots on earth — and we’re proud of it! While it would simply be impossible to list out each and every stunning locale in the Great Lakes State, we’re happy to provide you with a starting point. Here are 12 of the most gorgeous and best places to visit in Michigan.

12 Unimaginably Beautiful Places In Michigan That You Must See Before You Die (1)

Sparkling blue waters, sandy bluffs, and vistas that never seem to end… sound like paradise? Check it out for yourself with a visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes, which is full of never-ending delight. Whether you’ve visited a thousand times or are exploring this Lake Michigan destination for the first time, we promise you’ll be captivated. Without a doubt, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan to visit. Plus, it's also an inexpensive day trip destination! To see what makes this spot so special, check out the brief video footage below:

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Maple City, MI 49664, USA

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Venture to Manistique for the outdoor excursion of a lifetime at these gorgeous natural springs. The water is strikingly clear with a marvelous turquoise hue, and the forested beauty surrounding the springs adds a whole new layer of beauty. Once you arrive, you might never want to leave. Learn more about the most beautiful natural spring in Michigan, and why you'll want to plan your visit.

Kitch-iti-kipi, Sawmill Rd, Manistique, MI 49854, USA

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Whether you’re interested in hiking, swimming, waterfall-chasing, or simply seeing the sights, there’s something to charm you and engage the senses at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. See these stunning rock formations up-close and personal during a boat tour, hike along various overlooks, or dip your toes in Lake Superior — what’s not to love? Learn more about this idyllic Michigan destination. Watch this fascinating drone video of Pictured Rocks national Lakeshore to see what makes this place so breathtaking.

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This natural oasis in Ann Arbor is the perfect place to unwind and spend some time reconnecting with nature. Located just minutes from downtown, this large park offers hiking trails, direct access to the Huron River, and plenty of scenic beauty that will rejuvenate your body and spirit. It’s an absolute must-visit for Michiganders of all ages. Plus, it's even gorgeous in the wintertime! Learn more about this all-seasons attraction in Michigan.

Nichols Arboretum, Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA

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There are countless gorgeous beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan, and we wish we could include all of them — but Grand Haven State Park offers a unique charm. With beachfront access, a lovely pier, and some of the most breathtaking sunset views imaginable, there’s nothing not to love during an excursion to this wonderful West Michigan locale.

Grand Haven State Park, 1001 S Harbor Dr, Grand Haven, MI 49417, USA

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This delightful state park in Charlevoix will make you wonder if you’ve stepped into another time, one where simplicity and natural beauty abound. Take a stroll along the beachfront at this quiet lakefront destination, which offers a unique ambiance that everyone should experience at least once. No matter how many times you visit, Fisherman’s Island never disappoints. Learn more about this bucket-list-worthy hidden beach in Michigan.

Fisherman Island, Norwood Township, MI 49720, USA

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Many people aren’t aware that Michigan is home to its very own mountainous region — but they're pleasantly surprised to discover the beauty of the Porcupine Mountains! If you find yourself in the Upper Peninsula, you absolutely must explore this gorgeous area. Hike along the Escarpment Trail, marvel at Lake of the Clouds, or simply settle in for a few nights of camping. This is Mother Nature at her very best and brightest! Learn more about why you should plan a trip to Porcupine Mountains State Park in Michigan.

Porcupine Mountains, Carp Lake Township, MI 49953, USA

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If you love getting back to basics and reconnecting with nature, Isle Royale is a wonderland that you’ll absolutely adore. There are no cars to be found throughout this magical island park, and you’ll find everything from moose to wolves roaming freely about the land. If there’s one word to accurately describe Isle Royale, it’s "unspoiled," and you’ll absolutely fall in love with its beauty and charm. Have you ever visited the famous Isle Royale in Michigan? You can take a quick tour of Isle Royale National Park when you watch the video below!

Isle Royale, Michigan, USA

12 Unimaginably Beautiful Places In Michigan That You Must See Before You Die (9)

Tawas Point is sometimes referred to as "the Cape Cod of Michigan," and it’s easy to see why. In fact, the Sunrise Coast of Lake Huron is charming as a whole — whether you’re looking for lighthouses, sunrise views, or opportunities to camp along the stunning lakeshore, you’ll find it here. Don't forget your camera when you venture to Tawas Point State Park: the photo-ops are ample! Learn more about this incredible state park in Michigan.

Tawas Point State Park, 686 Tawas Beach Rd, East Tawas, MI 48730, USA

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Every Michigander knows that Mackinac Island is an undeniably wonderful destination, but that won’t stop us from recommending it! Hop on a bicycle and make your way along this iconic island, which offers stunning waterfront views, friendly faces, and all sorts of historic spots to explore. Finish out your day of exploration with a hearty helping of fudge — sounds like heaven to us!

Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA

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This seasonal attraction might not be as famous as some of the others on our list, but it’s well worth the journey. Venture to the town of Shelby and check out Cherry Point Farm & Market, which houses an incredible labyrinth made entirely of aromatic lavender — this is one maze you won’t mind getting lost in. Each summer, countless visitors are stunned by the beauty of the labyrinth, and it’s not difficult to understand why. For more info, click here.

Lavender Labyrinth at Cherry Point, Michigan, 9600 W Buchanan Rd, Mears, MI 49436, USA

12 Unimaginably Beautiful Places In Michigan That You Must See Before You Die (12)

Michigan’s most famous waterfalls are a true sight to behold, complete with rushing water, surrounding hiking trails, and plenty of access to the raw beauty of nature. There’s something completely mesmerizing about Tahquamenon Falls, and every member of the family will be in awe of the views that await.

Tahquamenon Falls, McMillan Township, MI 49768, USA

Of course, this list only scratches the surface of the best places to visit in Michigan. We know there are countless other gorgeous places to visit throughout the state. Tell us about your favorite destinations in the comment section below, and happy exploring!

For related content, check out our article outlining some of the coolest natural wonders in the state. Consider it your Michigan outdoor bucket list!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

12 Unimaginably Beautiful Places In Michigan That You Must See Before You Die (13)

The OIYS Visitor Center

best places to visit in Michigan

April 04, 2023

Beth C.

What are some of Michigan's hidden gems?

Michigan has tons of famous landmarks, as outlined in the article above. If you're looking for places that are a bit more off the beaten path, you'll be pleased to hear that there are tons of hidden gems in the Wolverine State too! Some of Michigan's best hidden gems include:

  • Hanson Hills Recreation Area -- a seriously underrated ski area in Grayling
  • Belle Isle Aquarium -- the oldest operating aquarium in the entire U.S.
  • Harbor Springs Library -- located in a charming small town with a picturesque tunnel of trees
  • Crazy Quarters Arcade -- an arcade featuring over 70 retro games
  • Japanese Cultural Center -- a beautiful place to enjoy a tea house and cherry blossoms blooming in late spring
  • Burnette Park -- one of the best picnic spots in the state
  • Round Barn Winery -- a family-owned winery in Amish country
  • Krafft Beach -- a hidden gem beach in Port Huron
  • Estivant Pines -- a stunning nature sanctuary in Cooper Harbor
  • Gull Meadow Farms -- a great place to enjoy a corn maze in the fall
  • Pine Street Mercantile -- a charming antique store that's excellent for holiday shopping

Curious to learn more? Check out our full article outlining these hidden gems in Michigan. There's something for everyone on the list!

12 Unimaginably Beautiful Places In Michigan That You Must See Before You Die (2024)

FAQs

What is the prettiest places in Michigan? ›

Best Places to Visit in Michigan
  • Mackinac Island.
  • Holland, MI.
  • Saugatuck.
  • Grand Rapids.
  • Ann Arbor.
  • Muskegon.
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
  • Traverse City.

Where is the most beautiful place to live in Michigan? ›

Traverse City

These are part of the Michigan National Lakeshore, and you'll find miles of beaches, high dunes, towering bluffs and a beautiful view across the lake.

What is the nicest city in Michigan? ›

Ann Arbor, No. 14

1 for best place to live in Michigan and the top spot for best place to live for the best quality of life in the country. The magazine noted the natural beauty surrounding the city's bustling downtown filled with backpack-laden students and its proximity to Detroit.

Where do most millionaires live in Michigan? ›

Richest Cities in Michigan
  • West Bloomfield is home to some of the richest Michigan residents. ...
  • In addition to being one of Michigan's richest cities, Plymouth is also one of the best. ...
  • Novi is both rich and quickly growing. ...
  • Traverse City is the richest city in northern Michigan.
Jan 5, 2023

Where is it safest to live in Michigan? ›

Grosse Ile Township

The safest place to live in Michigan is Grose Ile Township. This city is located near Detroit in Wayne County and has a population of 10,000. The overall crime rate is very low, with 390 crimes per 100,000 people, making this city 88% safer than the US average.

What is the world famous mystery spot in Michigan? ›

The story: According to the St. Ignace Mystery Spot, in the early 1950s a few surveyors were exploring Michigan's Upper Peninsula one day when they realized that none of their equipment was working properly. The problems, they discovered after some testing, were only apparently in a circle about 300 feet in diameter.

Are there any ghost towns in Michigan? ›

One of the most iconic ghost towns in Michigan is Old Victoria in the Upper Peninsula. Currently, you can visit the old ghost town's museum. It's being restored and has a lot of historical significance to the area. Old Victoria was founded in the 1800s.

What are 5 things Michigan is known for? ›

What Is Michigan Known For? Michigan is known for the home of the automobile industry, beautiful Great Lakes shorelines, and a bustling college town atmosphere. The state is also known for its agriculture, with cherries, apples, and blueberries being some of the most popular crops.

What is the richest town in Michigan? ›

Barton Hills, with only 176 households, ranked as the No.
  • richest city in Michigan. ...
  • Lake Angelus is very similar to Barton Hills, notably also being home to less than 200 households in total. ...
  • richest city in Michigan — Bloomfield Hills — actually has a higher median household income than Lake Angelus.
May 12, 2023

What is the cleanest city in Michigan? ›

Real-time Michigan Cleanest city ranking
#cityUS AQI
1Hudsonville48
2L'Anse48
3Kentwood52
4Holland57
6 more rows
5 days ago

What is the healthiest city in Michigan? ›

10 Healthiest Cities in Michigan
  • Bloomfield. Population: 44,253. ...
  • Rochester Hills. Population: 76,300. ...
  • Birmingham. Population: 21,813. ...
  • Novi. Population: 66,243. ...
  • West Bloomfield. Population: 65,888. ...
  • Northville. Population: 6,119. ...
  • Canton. Population: 98,659. Smoking rate: 13.9% ...
  • Ann Arbor. Population: 123,851. Smoking rate: 13.2%

What is the number one tourist destination in Michigan? ›

The team at vacation site Family Destinations Guide ranks the Mackinac Bridge ahead of some of the most famous tourist attractions in the U.S., like Central Park and the National Mall.

What is the poorest city in Michigan? ›

Among the 45 places in Michigan with available data and populations of at least 25,000, Flint ranks as the poorest. The typical Flint household earns $30,383 a year, compared to the statewide median household income of $59,234. Home values are often a reflection of what people can afford.

What billionaire lives in Michigan? ›

Dan Gilbert is still the richest person in Michigan, and it isn't particularly close. With a net worth of $18 billion, Gilbert ranked No. 92 on Forbes' 2023 “World's Billionaire List,” released Tuesday.

How many billionaires live in Michigan? ›

Table
State/DistrictNumber of Billionaires as of 2023Billionaires per One-Million People
Michigan111.0966309304554547
Minnesota40.6989467047895498
Mississippi20.682470872143177
Missouri71.1315708094174495
39 more rows

What city in Michigan has the worst crime rate? ›

Cities such as Muskegon Heights, Detroit, Benton Harbor, and Flint have particularly high crime rates, making them some of the most hazardous places in the state. However, it's worth noting that not all parts of Michigan are dangerous.

Where is the safest cheapest place to live in Michigan? ›

Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor isn't just one of the most affordable places to live, it's also a clear favorite. The city is home to about 116,000 residents, a healthy economy, and an affordable housing market. The University of Michigan is located here, which is a driving force behind the city's culture and economy.

What is the greatest mystery? ›

The most famous unsolved mysteries of all time
  • 1/7. Amelia Earhart's disappearance. ...
  • 2/7. Jack the Ripper's identity. ...
  • 3/7. The Mary Celeste's fate. ...
  • 4/7. The Loch Ness Monster. ...
  • 5/7. The Roanoke colony's disappearance. ...
  • 6/7. Voynich Manuscript. ...
  • 7/7. The Zodiac Murderer.
Mar 3, 2023

What is the most remote place in Michigan? ›

The City of Omer, Michigan holds the title of the most isolated town here in Michigan. There are only around 284 residents according to the 2010 U.S. Census. The city of Omer was first settled back in 1866, and then incorporated into Michigan later on in 1903.

What are the seven wonders of UP Michigan? ›

Seven “natural wonders” are in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. They are: Mackinac Island, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Tahquamenon Falls, the Keweenaw Peninsula and Brockway Mountain Drive, the Porcupine Mountains and Lake of the Clouds, Isle Royal National Park, and Kitch-iti-Kipi.

What is Michigan's oldest city? ›

Sault Ste. Marie was settled as early as 1668, which makes it Michigan's oldest city and among the oldest cities in the United States. Located at the northeastern edge of the Upper Peninsula, it is separated by the St. Marys River from the much-larger city of Sault Ste.

What is the largest abandoned ghost town? ›

Welcome to Jerome, Arizona, America's largest ghost town.

Can a person live in a ghost town? ›

There are thousands of abandoned hamlets in the U.S. Some people still live and vacation in them. Maybe you want to, too? There are some 3,800 ghost towns in the United States, most abandoned in the 19th and early 20th centuries in favor of bigger cities, or casualties of changing industry.

What are 3 famous foods from Michigan? ›

It is known for famous Mackinac Island fudge, Coney Island Hot Dogs, and Cornish Pasties, which were introduced by miners who came to the state from Cornwall, England. Tart cherries, Packzi (Polish Filled Donuts), and Superman Ice Cream are more popular foods you might enjoy when visiting Michigan.

What are people from Michigan called? ›

"Michigander" and "Michiganian" are unofficial demonyms for natives and residents of the U.S. state of Michigan.

What food is Michigan City known for? ›

Michigan City's Most Famous Dishes
  • Chili Dog.
  • Chicago Dog.
  • Cheese.
  • Root Beer.

Who is Michigan richest person? ›

Dan Gilbert takes top spot again in Michigan.

What is the most expensive place to live in Michigan? ›

Ann Arbor is the most expensive Michigan city to live in. Although housing costs might be higher in other cities, Ann Arbor's prospering economy gives you plenty more opportunities to empty your purse or wallet.

What is the healthiest county in Michigan? ›

The top five counties for health outcomes were Leelanau, Clinton, Ottawa, Livingston and Oakland. For health factors, the top counties were Washtenaw, Ottawa, Oakland, Livingston and Clinton. Health outcomes take into account two main areas — length of life and quality of life.

What is the clearest cleanest lake in Michigan? ›

Torch Lake in Michigan is the state's clearest lake. It is sometimes compared to Caribbean seas and is noted for its turquoise, crystal-clear waters. The clearest lake in Michigan is Torch Lake. It is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and is often compared to Caribbean seas.

What is the greenest city in Michigan? ›

Named “America's Greenest City” by Fast Company magazine, Grand Rapids has received worldwide recognition for its sustainable efforts. Our region is blessed with abundant natural resources, and we are committed to protecting and preserving this very special environment for future generations to enjoy.

What city is pure Michigan in? ›

See Answer. Located along the coast of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is home to award winning wineries, restaurants, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and six historic lighthouses.

What is the best county to live in Michigan? ›

According to Niche, Michigan's best county to live in (and the 22nd-best nationwide) is Washtenaw County, home to Ann Arbor.

What is the #1 healthiest city in America? ›

1. San Francisco, California. San Francisco, California tops the list of healthiest city in America compared to all the others on expert lists. MindBody Business describes what makes this city stand out: “San Franciscans spend the 3rd highest amount on fitness, beauty, and wellness — on average $331 each month.

What city in Michigan is best for climate change? ›

Climate Risks for Cities in Michigan

The city with the lowest overall risk is Bay City. For heat, Marquette has the lowest risk and Kalamazoo has the highest risk. For precipitation, Flint has the lowest risk and Grand Rapids has the highest risk. For drought, Flint has the lowest risk and Detroit has the highest risk.

What is the most expensive & luxurious place to live in Michigan? ›

Ann Arbor is the most expensive Michigan city to live in. Although housing costs might be higher in other cities, Ann Arbor's prospering economy gives you plenty more opportunities to empty your purse or wallet.

Where will be the best place to live in 50 years? ›

A new book examining the forces shaping the future of global migration forecasts Michigan as the best place in the world to live in 2050. How can the world collaborate to minimize temperature rise to save as many lives as possible?

What state will be the best to live in in 2050? ›

Climate change hazards like extreme heat, drought, wildfires, inland flooding, and coastal flooding are expected to impact millions of Americans by 2050. Vermont is the best state to move to avoid climate change. At-risk homeowners can minimize threats and save money by future-proofing their homes.

What is the poorest part of Michigan? ›

According to World Population Review, Detroit, Michigan comes in as the poorest city in the US, outranking two cities in both Ohio and New York as well as the notoriously impoverished city of Newark, New Jersey.

Where is the cheapest waterfront property in Michigan? ›

1. Lake Huron - Bay City Area: The Lake Huron region around historic Bay City is currently the most affordable lake spot in the state, according to the report, with an average home listing price of $171, 076.

What is the most expensive county in Michigan to live in? ›

Home to popular wineries along the coast of Lake Michigan near Traverse City, Leelanau County is Michigan's wealthiest county, according to a new study.

Where do rich people live in Michigan? ›

50 Richest Cities in Michigan
RankCityTotal Households
1Barton Hills176
2Lake Angelus144
3Bloomfield Hills1,551
4Orchard Lake Village793
46 more rows
May 12, 2023

What is the most expensive neighborhood in Michigan? ›

After breaking down all the data and the city with the most expensive homes in Michigan is Lake Angelus. Located in Oakland County, the city also consistently ranks as the city in Michigan with the 5th highest per capita income.

Where is the most expensive house in Michigan? ›

PETOSKEY, Mich. — A home listed for $18 million on Walloon Lake in Michigan technically ties for the most expensive home for sale in the state, according to Zillow, but with more than twice the living space square footage.

What is the healthiest County in Michigan? ›

The top five counties for health outcomes were Leelanau, Clinton, Ottawa, Livingston and Oakland. For health factors, the top counties were Washtenaw, Ottawa, Oakland, Livingston and Clinton.

What cities in Michigan have the lowest property taxes? ›

Centerville Township in the Glen Lake Community Schools district has the lowest rate, at 16.447 mills. The map below shows 2021 homestead millage rates across Michigan.

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