Travel Tips for Exploring Michigan

Almost completely surrounded by water, the two peninsulas of Michigan combine natural beauty and bustling city life. Plenty of activities in the state are cost-effective, like hunting for glow-in-the-dark Yooperlite stones on Lake Superior beaches or checking out classic cars in one of Detroit’s many car shows.

Due to Detroit being the center of the automotive industry in America, public transportation options are limited. None of its cities has a subway system, and navigating the bus service can be a challenge. Therefore, renting a car is the most practical way to explore the state and should be factored into your budget. Fortunately, food and drinks are generally quite inexpensive.

Daily Costs in Michigan

Basic hotel room for two: $60-120
Bed-and-breakfast: $130-200
Self-catering apartment: from $80 per night
Lakeside family cabin rental: from $90 per night
Car rental: $40-60 per day
Coffee: $4-5
Coney Island hot dog with chili: $2.50-4
Dinner for two: $50-80
Pint of beer at the bar: $4-6

Average daily cost: $180–200

1. Plan to Fly into Detroit and Rent a Car

Detroit Metropolitan Airport is a major hub for Delta, with many other airlines offering affordable flights in and out of DTW. The airport is about 20 miles from downtown Detroit, and there is no public transportation between the two.

A taxi or rideshare can cost upwards of $50, so if you can’t get a ride from a friend or family, it’s generally more cost-effective to rent a vehicle from one of the many car-rental companies on-site.

2. Make the Drive Part of the Adventure

Cruising through a tunnel of trees along M-119 in northern Michigan or stopping at scenic overlooks along the interstates, you can spot gorgeous fall colors and enjoy delightful vistas. Many of Michigan’s rest stops are set in beautiful, park-like settings, perfect for a picnic.

3. Gas-Station Food is a Great Option

From Southwest Detroit’s amazing taquerias to delicious pasties in the Upper Peninsula, Michigan’s gas-station food is worth exploring. If a line forms at a gas station or food truck, it’s a good sign that the food is worth the wait.

4. Coney Islands: A Michigan Specialty

In Michigan, the Coney Island is a hot dog loaded with chili, diced onions, and mustard, a combination brought to Detroit by Greek immigrants. Diners across the state known as Coney Islands offer a variety of inexpensive food options, making them a budget-friendly dining choice.

5. Explore Natural Wonders with a Recreation Passport

A state recreation sticker for motor vehicles costs $34 for nonresidents and lasts a full year. This passport grants vehicle access to all state parks, where you can visit incredible sites like the stunning Tahquamenon Falls and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

6. Consider Camping

Michigan has a well-developed network of campgrounds, making it easy to find a site no matter where you travel. Some campgrounds offer luxury amenities, while others are more primitive, allowing for a range of camping experiences.

7. Enjoy Leaf-Peeping

Fall foliage is a popular attraction in Michigan. The peak viewing time varies, with the northern parts of the Upper Peninsula typically seeing color changes in late September, while the lower part peaks toward the end of October.

8. Plan for Travel Time

Michigan is the eleventh-largest state in the US, and travel times may surprise visitors. Driving across the lower peninsula can take about four to five hours, so it’s wise to account for travel time when planning your itinerary.

9. Go Lighthouse-Hopping

With over 3200 miles of coastline, Michigan has more lighthouses than any other state. While visiting every lighthouse may not be feasible, stopping at a few can give you a wonderful sense of the state’s natural beauty.

10. Avoid Detroit at the End of September

If you’re planning a trip to Detroit in September, be aware that prices typically spike during the North American International Auto Show. Hotels can fill up quickly, and transportation costs may increase.

11. Enjoy Free Art and Architecture

Detroit features an impressive collection of street art and murals. Architectural treasures like the Fisher Building and the Guardian Building are also free to view and provide a glimpse into the state’s rich cultural history.

12. Shop at Local Farmers Markets

Michigan is known for its agricultural bounty, especially during the summer and fall. Farmers markets in towns and cities highlight local produce and artisan goods, making it easy to create a fresh meal from local ingredients.

13. Stay in a Cabin or Bed-and-Breakfast

Michigan’s vast landscape includes charming bed-and-breakfasts and rustic cabins available for rent. These unique accommodations offer a taste of local history while providing valuable insights from hosts about exploring the area.

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