6 Weekend Getaways in Michigan

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark
In Northern Michigan, directly south of Mackinac Island, Gaylord is a destination for those who like outdoor activities of all kinds. Popular for getaways in both the warmer months and the depths of winter, Gaylord is equipped to keep you entertained. With all manner of watersports from kayaking and paddle boarding to land-based pursuits such as hiking and cycling, Gaylord has maintained its reputation as an Alpine village and is the perfect destination for those who wish to keep fit and healthy in body and spirit.

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On the south shore of Lake Superior is a peaceful community that was named Grand Marais by the French as far back as the 1600s. As a village on a sheltered body of water, its geographical positioning promises peace and refuge and, like other destinations in the Upper Peninsula, manages to draw people to it in all seasons. Close to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, expect immense sand dunes and fairytale coastlines from Grand Marais. This is a retreat into nature and a serene place to appreciate all the colors of the sunset.

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark
As the capital of Michigan, Lansing offers the opportunity to be one of the locals for a weekend in a city of a little more than 120,000 people. You can enjoy the casual freedom of exploring farmers’ markets, walking along picturesque river trails or, if you are inclined, even renting a kayak. Lansing has the benefits of never being too far from nature while the city is at your fingertips. If you really want to feel like you’re part of the city, attend a Minor League Baseball game at Cooley Law School stadium to support the Lansing Lugnuts. Lansing offers the best of both worlds.

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People have been escaping to Mackinac Island for centuries; its perfect summer climate and cooling waters still make it a major draw today. The ban on cars encourages visitors to make cycling the fun and healthy means to get around, and there is no shortage of history or culture on the island, with museums, galleries and the Grand Hotel. Wander off to one of the high points on the island in the evening to revel in what many have done before you. This is surely one sunset in Michigan that’s hard to beat.

Natural Feature
Bay Harbor is the place to stay in style or use as a base to sail off into the blue. The marina has modern, award-winning facilities and is considered as much a community as a place to dock your boat. If you like your trips into nature to come with some luxury, then Bay Harbor is the place to indulge yourself. It is not just a place for the pampered though; with Michigan’s nature always waiting to be tackled and the annual arts festival celebrating music and dance, Bay Harbor is a memorable getaway.

Natural Feature

Lake Michigan’s self-proclaimed Emerald Isle lies 30mi (48km) from the city of Charlevoix and entertains visitors who can only gain access to it by plane or ferry. Beaver Island will leave you feeling that sublime connection to nature. The beaches are unspoiled and the light pollution at night is so low that people come for stargazing alone. It has even sought out an official international dark-sky designation. The sky certainly adds to the serenity in the evenings when Beaver Island communicates something silent and magical.

Need somewhere to stay on your trip? Check out our guide to the best vacation rentals in Michigan.