While there are many things to do on summer vacation in Michigan, 3,200 miles of shoreline puts water activities at the top of the list. Besides water activities like fishing, water skiing, swimming and canoeing, Michigan is a true winter wonderland with downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and ice skating as well. The state consists of two distinct peninsulas, the UP or Upper Peninsula, and the LP or Lower Peninsulas. Family vacations in Michigan are fun and affordable.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Sleeping Bear Dunes is located in the Lower Peninsula on the Lake Michigan side of the state. Once you climb to the top you can see Lake Glen. Visit Glen Haven, a restored logging village, the Life Saving Museum at Sleeping Bear Point and take a boat ride to the Manitou Islands while you are in the area.
Mackinac Bridge
The Mackinac (pronounced “Mackinaw”) Bridge is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. This bridge shares its name with Mackinac Island. The only way to get to Mackinac Island is by plane or ferryboat. A vacation destination for many, the island has many types of accommodations. Historic lodges and resorts where guests can play bocce or golf or rent a cabin or a summer house while on the island. Visiting Mackinac Island is a relaxing way to share some family time.
Torch Lake
The amazing blue-green colour of Torch Lake earned it the title of the 3rd most beautiful lake in the world by National Geographic. Located near Traverse City, sandbars extend for hundreds of feet while water levels remain shallow. This is what gives the lake its unique colour.
Detroit Zoo
A visit to Michigan should include a stop at the Detroit Zoo. The Arctic Ring of Life exhibit features the largest population of captive polar bears. Located in Royal Oak, over 2,500 species of plant and animals call the zoo home. Many of the species nurtured there are endangered.
Cadillac
Cadillac is a town where the season does not interfere with the fun. During the summer visitors can swim, water ski and check out the City Park where a real logging locomotive is on display. Visiting in winter means snowmobile trails, ice fishing on Lake Cadillac and snow skiing at Caberfae Ski Resort.
Water Parks
Vacationers who are looking for thrills can visit Splash Universe in Dundee or Four Bears Water Park in Utica. An enclosed water park and an outdoor pool at Great Wolf Lodge located in Traverse City are sure to please everyone.
Michigan, is the perfect place for the summer vacation. Take a trip to the Wolverine state your family is sure to enjoy the visit.
