The Best Vacation Spots Around Lake Michigan

Lake Michigan is one of the five Great Lakes, and it borders four of the United States and Canada. With more than 3,000 miles of shoreline, it offers plenty of opportunities for vacationers to explore. From sandy beaches to lush forests, the lake presents a variety of exciting experiences. Here are 12 of the best vacation spots around Lake Michigan that you won’t want to miss.

1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan in Northern Michigan. It’s an incredible destination, featuring 35 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, two scenic islands, and spectacular sand dunes. It’s also home to diverse wildlife, historic lighthouses, and nature trails. Camping and beach activities are popular here, and there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a great place to get away from it all and relax. The breathtaking scenery and abundance of outdoor activities make it a perfect vacation spot.

The area is also known for its culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants offering locally-sourced cuisine. There are also plenty of wineries and breweries in the area, so you can enjoy a glass of wine or craft beer while taking in the views.

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Located in the Straits of Mackinac between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a popular vacation destination. It’s known for its stunning scenery, charming Victorian-era architecture, and horse-drawn carriages. It’s also home to Fort Mackinac, a historic military fort that dates back to 1780.

The island is a great place for outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and biking. You can also explore the island’s many trails, take a boat tour of the Great Lakes, or just relax on the beach.

Mackinac Island is also renowned for its culinary scene. There are numerous restaurants serving traditional dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. And don’t forget to try the famous Mackinac Island fudge!

3. Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is a popular tourist destination located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. It’s known for its stunning scenery, charming towns, and abundance of outdoor activities. It’s also home to some of the best beaches in the Midwest, as well as several state parks and nature preserves.

Fishing, boating, and kayaking are popular activities in Door County, and there are plenty of trails for hiking and biking. There are also several golf courses and marinas in the area.

Door County is also a great place to explore local culture and history. There are numerous museums and art galleries, as well as historic lighthouses and sites. And don’t forget to try some of the local restaurants, which feature dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

4. Grand Haven, Michigan

Grand Haven is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan in Michigan. It’s known for its stunning beaches, charming downtown area, and abundance of outdoor activities. It’s also home to the Grand Haven State Park, which features two miles of sandy beach and spectacular views of Lake Michigan.

The area is a great place for swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. You can also explore the area’s many trails, or take a boat tour of the Great Lakes.

Grand Haven also offers plenty of shopping and dining options. There are several restaurants serving up fresh, locally-sourced cuisine, as well as numerous art galleries and boutiques. And don’t forget to check out the Grand Haven Lighthouse, which has been a local landmark since 1839.

5. South Haven, Michigan

South Haven is located on the western shore of Lake Michigan in Michigan. It’s known for its stunning beaches, abundance of outdoor activities, and charming downtown area. It’s also home to the South Haven Light, which has been a local landmark since 1872.