Michigan, with its two peninsulas, has something to offer everyone. Michigan also goes through distinct changes in all four seasons, making it a year round travel destination. The state is surrounded by four Great Lakes and is covered with forests and inland lakes aplenty. Combine its natural environment with famous big cities and colorful small villages and there is no shortage of things to do in Michigan.
When the ground starts to thaw in Michigan it marks the end of cabin fever as people get out and get active again. In addition to the natural off-road trails, Michigan has hundreds of miles of rail trails, which are perfect for walking, running and biking to help shed those winter pounds. As the ice clears from the roads, people start planning trips again. With more than 115 lighthouses in the state, lighthouse tours are a great way to get out and even come back home with some great pictures.
In the summer time, Michigan’s lakes are a hotbed of activity. Fishing, swimming, water skiing and other recreational activities can fill the long summer days. Summer time is also festival season. From the numerous county fairs running all summer long to local festivals, such as the Yale Bologna Festival and the Traverse City Cherry Festival, you could fill every weekend with a festival of one sort or another. Also, for the seasoned golfer, or even those who are interested, Michigan has more than 800 golf courses, meaning that, no matter where you are in Michigan, you are never too far from a golf course.
Michigan’s four seasons are very distinct. Autumn is marked by vibrant colors and the “back-to-school” spirit. Beginning in October, local news outlets will begin publishing their fall color information. Colors start turning in the northern part of the state first, allowing for fall color tours over several weekends. Also, as school is back in session, Michigan colleges and universities host activities from sporting events to lectures and other cultural events that are open to the public. It’s also a good time to visit one of the hundreds of museums in Michigan, from the numerous children’s museums around the state to the world-famous Henry Ford Museum.
While some states cringe at the thought of winter, Michigan has plenty of outdoor options to make the most of the season. The Corsair Ski Trails near Tawas is the longest system of ski trails in the state at 44.5 miles. For those who prefer their winter sports motorized, Munising in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a Mecca for snowmobiling. With more than 300 miles of groomed trails and an average snowfall of more than 230 inches, it is one of the most popular snowmobile destinations in the Midwest. And let’s not forget hockey. From the NHL’s Detroit Red Wings all the way down to youth hockey leagues in every corner of the state, there is always a hockey game to take in all winter long.
