An online survey of more than 3,000 people got to the bottom of America’s bucket list —and no surprise, Michigan’s beautiful landscapes made the list three times.
Of the 145 most coveted travel bucket list destinations, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Porcupine Mountains made the cut.
A common theme for the survey responses, conducted by Better Nurse, were locations that emphasized natural beauty and outdoor activities over proximity to crowded cities.
Other nearby Midwestern cities made the list. Lake Erie Islands and Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, Brown County State Park in Indiana and Starved Rock State Park in Illinois were all top picks for travel destinations.
Things to do with kids at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Of course, hiking the dunes is one of the most exciting things to do as a family at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
The iconic Dune Climb is a great option for families as you can easily call it quits and head back to the parking lot at the base of the hill. For older children with experience hiking longer treks, the Dune Climb opens up into a longer trail to the water, lasting about 3.5 miles with smaller — but still tough — climbs there and back.
For little ones, a big hike up the dunes might be too much, especially in hot weather. Instead, consider exploring the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail which leaves from the base of the dune at the north end of the Dune Climb.
Another benefit to visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes is nearby Traverse City. The bustling town is a beloved travel destination, with plenty of family activities and sightseeing.
Things to do with kids at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a long journey from metro Detroit, but the out-of-this-world views are well worth the trek.
With stunning waterfalls, beautiful hiking trails and miles-long stretches of beach, it’s no wonder Pictured Rocks is a popular travel destination for families craving real outdoor adventure.
Families looking for a cheaper vacation are also in luck. Pictures Rocks National Lakeshore’s Twelve mile Beach is the most affordable beach destination in the country.
The beach claimed the top spot on the list thanks to the incredibly affordable hotels, dining and entertainment options found nearby.
Don’t miss the nearby shipwreck boat tours and retro diner, too.
Things to do with kids at Porcupine Mountains
At the very tippy top of the U.P. bordering Wisconsin lie the Porcupine Mountains.
The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, better known as the “Porkies,” contains 60,000 acres of old-growth forest. The state park is located along the Lake Superior shoreline, where its cold, clear water beats against the smooth rocks.
Travelers come from near and far to see two major sights at the Porkies: Lake of the Clouds and Presque Isle River Corridor. Families who love to camp, fish and hike will love exploring its miles of forest, rivers and ridges.
Planning a visit during the colder months? Porcupine Mountains Winter Sports Complex makes visiting in chillier months possible with its fall chairlift rides, winter skiing, disc golf and more.
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