Explore Detroit and Top Day Trips

Detroit, the largest city in Michigan, is renowned for its vast automotive manufacturing industry, Motown music heritage, sporting events, and artistic endeavors. The city showcases a blend of cultural architecture alongside modern constructions, providing numerous attractions for visitors.

Each neighborhood brings a unique experience, with notable areas including Greektown, Corktown, New Center, and Mexicantown. Prominent attractions include the family-friendly Belle Isle Park, the Detroit Institute of Arts, the comprehensive Henry Ford Museum, Historic Fort Wayne, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and the Motown Museum.

For enthusiasts of the automotive legacy, the Ford Rouge Factory Tour is a must-see. In Detroit, one can indulge in shopping, savor international cuisine, and enjoy vibrant nightlife.

After exploring Detroit’s highlights, consider these exceptional day trips.

1. Corktown

Dedicate a day to uncover Corktown’s Irish heritage and explore Detroit’s oldest neighborhood. The community is characterized by charming Victorian-style residences, many adorned with vibrant hues.

Visit the El Dorado Country Store for a taste of nostalgia, and explore the now-inactive Michigan Central Railroad Station as well as Ernie Hallwell Park, the former site of Tiger Stadium.

Capture a photo of one of Detroit’s oldest churches before indulging in the culinary delights that make Corktown a notable dining destination.

The area features several distilleries and numerous bars, providing an elegant conclusion to your day.

2. Birmingham

Just a 30-minute drive from Detroit, Birmingham offers quaint charm near urban amenities. Explore the streets filled with unique boutiques and art galleries, and recharge in one of the town’s delightful cafes or restaurants.

The town features many inviting parks and green spaces, including Lower Baldwin Park, Shain Park, Poppleton Park, and Barnum Park, which provide serene spots to relax.

Discover local sports history at the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame and gain insight into the town’s heritage at the Birmingham Museum.

3. Toledo

Venture across the state line to Toledo, Ohio, where a diverse range of activities awaits visitors of all ages. Regardless of weather conditions, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor entertainment options.

Children will enjoy the Imagination Station, an interactive science museum designed for inquisitive minds. Art lovers should not miss the Toledo Museum of Art, which boasts an extensive collection of Renaissance and contemporary works.

Enhance your golfing skills at Maumee Bay State Park, find tranquility at Toledo Botanical Gardens, hike within Swan Creek Preserve Metropark, and delve into local history at the National Museum of the Great Lakes.

4. Ann Arbor

Founded in the 1820s, Ann Arbor is named after the founders’ wives, both named Ann. The city is well-recognized for hosting the University of Michigan, lending it a youthful atmosphere ripe with experiences.

The University of Michigan Museum offers insight into collegiate culture, while the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is a delightful destination for families. The Michigan Natural History Museum also provides engaging exhibits for children.

Outdoor enthusiasts can visit Bird Hills Nature Area, Matthaei Botanical Gardens, Gallup Park, and Argo Park, and enjoy a vibrant shopping experience in the downtown area.

5. Niagara Falls

With an early departure, it is feasible to undertake the four-hour journey to the breathtaking Niagara Falls. Ensure you carry your passport, as the quickest route crosses into Canada.

Marvel at the world-famous waterfalls and consider taking a boat ride to witness the magnificent cascades from a unique vantage point.

Additional experiences include a scenic helicopter ride, a visit to the Skylon Tower Observatory, and enjoying the Niagara SkyWheel for panoramic views of the area.

Other attractions encompass the Cave of the Winds and Three Sisters Island, presenting myriad opportunities to engage in beautiful hikes.

6. Pontiac

Located just 30 miles from Detroit, Pontiac allows visitors to witness the revival of a city that once fell into decline after the automobile industry experienced downturns. Once flourishing, the city faced significant challenges with the closing of car plants resulting in job losses.

Currently, Pontiac is experiencing a resurgence, particularly among millennials eager to revitalize the area. Historical displays offer insights into the automotive industry’s impact.

For those interested in urban development or decline, Pontiac provides valuable learning opportunities. Additionally, the city is home to two famous haunted houses: Erebus and The Realm of Darkness, appealing to fans of the paranormal.

7. Frankenmuth

A round trip of approximately an hour and a half will take you to Frankenmuth, a town that evokes the charm of Germany’s Bavarian region.

Stroll down Main Street, admiring the distinctive architecture of castle-like buildings before visiting a local brewery. Those with appetite will find joy in Bavarian-themed restaurants offering traditional cuisines served by staff in authentic outfits.

Consider taking a scenic river cruise or a charming horse-drawn carriage ride to explore the area. Zehnder’s Splash Village promises fun for visitors of all ages, while Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland enchants throughout the year.

8. Bay City

The 120-mile journey to Bay City takes less than two hours, transporting visitors to a haven for water enthusiasts along Lake Huron.

A leisurely walk on the Riverwalk Pier unveils picturesque vistas. Alternatively, engage in recreational water activities such as sailing, or bask on the shores of Bay City State Recreation Area.

Seek out treasures at the expansive Bay Antique Center, tour a historic vessel at the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum, honor veterans at the Veterans Memorial Park, or explore the Center Avenue Historic District.

As dusk falls, the bars and pubs thrive with life.

9. Grand Rapids

A visit to Grand Rapids, the second-largest city in Michigan, allows you to exchange the hustle of one city for another. This city is characterized by its arts scene, rich history, and family-friendly activities.

Enhance your creativity at the Grand Rapids Art Museum, Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, and Art Prize. Families will find entertainment at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore places like Blandford Nature Center and Calvin College Ecosystem Preserve, while the Fulton Street Farmers Market offers fresh produce and local goods. Discover history and culture at the Meyer May House, Grand Rapids Public Museum, Gerald R. Ford Museum, and Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

10. Lexington

The picturesque harbor town of Lexington is situated directly on the shores of Lake Huron. The laid-back atmosphere of this community provides a sense of tranquility, reminiscent of steamships and bustling lumber trade from the past.

Enjoy a stroll around the harbor and consider taking a boat ride on the pristine lake. Relax in Lexington Park, featuring swimming zones, play areas, and shaded pavilions for leisurely downtime.

Discover local shops and restaurants that offer charming experiences for visitors.

11. Mount Pleasant

Located around 155 miles from Detroit (approximately two and a half hours by car), Mount Pleasant encompasses parts of the Isabella Indian Reservation.

This vibrant college town features the Soaring Eagle Casino, operated by the Saginaw Chippewa Native American tribal group, and the playful Soaring Eagle Water Park, offering attractions like pools, slides, and a lazy river.

Visitors can explore outdoor spaces such as Mill Pond Park, Nelson Park, and Island Park, along with gaining insight into the local culture at the Museum of Cultural and Natural History.

Mount Pleasant satisfies various interests with activities including escape games, fishing spots, walking trails, and cycling routes.

12. Lansing

Visit Michigan’s capital, Lansing, to discover a wealth of engaging activities and attractions. Start your journey at the Michigan State Capitol, an impressive building dating back to the 1870s.

Experience the wonders of the Talbert and Leota Abrams Planetarium, and engage with interactive exhibits at the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.

Follow sections of the 130-mile Lansing River Trail for delightful vistas, woodland scenery, farmer’s markets, museums, and art galleries.

Other notable venues include the Michigan Women’s Historical Center & Hall of Fame, the 9/11 Remembrance Memorial, and the historic Turner-Dodge House from the 1850s.

13. Saugatuck

The delightful coastal town of Saugatuck, located in Allegan County, features stunning beaches. Should you venture beyond the beach, a world of rolling sand dunes, diverse bird species, art galleries, unique shops, and abundant outdoor activities awaits you.

Climb Mount Baldhead for spectacular vistas and embark on adventures throughout Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Take a calming boat trip on Lake Michigan or the Kalamazoo River, while enjoying delightful scenes of the former lumber town unfolding around you.

For wine and cider enthusiasts, tasting opportunities can be found in nearby Fennville. Artists will appreciate the charming galleries and the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, as well as creative workshops at the Art Barn.

14. Holland

Accessible in less than three hours by car, Holland presents a lovely escape reminiscent of Europe, situated near the shores of Lake Macatawa.

The Dutch influences are apparent in the architecture, windmills, and local cuisine, woven into the fabric of this charming city.

Capture images of the Holland Harbor Light, commonly known as Big Red, shop at the large Farmer’s Market, visit the historic windmill De Zwaan, and relax on the sandy beaches at Holland State Park and Tunnel Park.

Several museums, including the Holland Museum, Cappon House Museum, and Settlers House Museum, provide insight into the region’s rich history.

15. Hell

Hell is conveniently located just 60 miles from Detroit, presenting a quirky destination that offers novelty attractions and a relaxed atmosphere. Rather than the expected fiery connotations, Michigan’s community of Hell is a lighthearted place boasting unique charm.

Visitors can participate in the amusing tradition of locking their love on the bridge and tossing the key into the waters beneath. Recreational opportunities abound at Pinckney Recreation Area, which offers kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and peaceful settings.

With establishments such as Hell Hole Diner, Hell Saloon, and Screams, a fun and unusual outing is guaranteed.