Jetting off to far-away lands is fun, but sometimes staying close to home is best – especially with young kids and tight budgets.
If that describes your family, you’ll be glad to know that Michigan has been named one of the best places to travel during fall and all year round.
Back in January, TripSavvy’s post, “Where to Go in 2020: The Best Places to Travel This Year,” included destinations around the globe, from New Orleans (“Destination of the Year”) to Rwanda (“Best for a Bucket List”) and named our mitten the “best place to travel for outdoor enthusiasts.”
Fast forward to September, and Michigan has been ranked a top travel destination, this time by LawnStarter.
In LawnStarter’s list of 2020’s Best & Worst States to Visit This Fall, Michigan took the number three spot based on key categories such as trails, entertainment and natural hazards.
So, are you ready to explore the outdoors here in your home state this fall and beyond? Consider these five suggestions.
1. Canopy walk in Midland
Michigan is home to the country’s longest canopy walk, and it’s not too far from the Detroit area. Located at Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens in Midland, the canopy walk has 1,400 feet of treetop bridges spanning 54 acres of forest. It’s open year-round, so check it out anytime.
2. Mackinac Island
Sure, you could stay at a fancy hotel and sip tea once you get off the ferry and step onto Mackinac Island. Or you could pack the bikes and set off exploring the beautiful landscapes in every direction (or do both!). A family-friendly 8.2-mile bike trail goes around the island and you’ll find more than 70 miles of trails to check out.
3. Boyne Mountain Resort
Embrace the winter season with skiing or tubing, enjoy a bonfire or go horseback riding. There’s also “Fat Tire Snow Biking,” ice skating, snowshoeing and more. When you’re tired of the great outdoors, head to the indoor water park.
4. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising
If you have the time, don’t let the distance put you off. Many Michiganders say the sights at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore are a must-see. Also in the area, check out Grand Island.
5. Ludington
What’s better than a beach vacation? If that’s your family’s travel style, you’ll love the 2,500 feet of beautiful beach in Ludington, which is about four hours from Detroit. Also explore Ludington State Park and check out the views from Stearns Park Beach.
This post was originally published in January 2020 and is updated regularly.
