45 Awesome Spring Things to Do in Michigan (2023)

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45 BEST Spring Things to Do in Michigan in 2023: Spring Festivals, Spring Sports and Spring Fun!

Looking for the best spring things to do in Michigan?

Michigan in spring is a special thing, and it’s especially sweet after a long winter in Michigan.

As temperatures start to rise with the approach of spring, so do the spirits of Michiganders, who flock in droves to revel in the season. Once the snow starts to melt, across the upper and lower peninsula, it’s the perfect time for some Michigan travel and spring fun!

Whether you’re looking to do a little spring skiing on what’s left of the snow across northern Michigan or are ready to see the flowers at Holland’s Tulip Time, you’ll find lots to do during the spring months in Michigan.

If you are searching for the top activities to enjoy in Michigan this spring, we have a detailed guide for you to explore.

Read on for the best things to do in Michigan in Spring.

Planning a Spring Break Vacation?
Are you planning to spend spring break in Michigan? We’ve got a great guide to some of the best spring break destinations in Michigan, which includes the top spring break getaways from the Lake Michigan shore to the Upper Peninsula. Also check out Michigan’s top staycation spots, too.

Things to Do in Spring in Southeast Michigan

Explore Belle Isle Detroit MI

Discover Nature This Spring in Michigan on beautiful Belle Isle, the Gem of Detroit.

Some of the best things to do in Spring on Belle Isle include enjoying the views of the Detroit River, biking or walking the trails.

The Belle Isle Aquarium and Belle Isle’s Nature Center are fun to visit, too, where you can see a variety of fish, amphibians, and reptiles, as well as a number of invertebrates. This beautiful, Albert Kahn-designed building is lined with green glass tiles that make it feel like you’re underwater.

Tour the Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts has one of the largest and most comprehensive art collections in the country, with over 65,000 works of art.

The DIA collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, textiles, prints, drawings, and more from all over the world and from different time periods. You’ll see some of the world’s most famous artworks, including Vincent van Gogh’s Self-Portrait, Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry Murals, Pieter Bruegel the Elder’s The Wedding Dance and many more.

Visit Greenfield Village in Dearborn

Spring is the perfect time to walk though this open-air museum that features over 80 historic buildings from different time periods and locations in America.

Greenfield Village buildings are staffed by costumed interpreters who bring history to life by demonstrating crafts, trades, and other activities from the past. Home to several iconic American landmarks, you’ll see Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park Laboratory, the Wright Brothers’ Cycle Shop, and Henry Ford’s birthplace and much more.

Detroit Tigers Opening Day at Comerica Park!

Detroit Tigers opening day is April 6 at Comerica Park, 2100 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201. 2023 just might be the year for the Tigers to bring home the world series pennant, and you can say you saw them when it all started!

One of the top Michigan sports teams, the Tigers face the Boston Red Sox for the home opener at 1:10 p.m. in Detroit.

See the Flowers at Eastern Market in Detroit

Eastern Market is one of the largest and oldest public markets in the United States.

It’s a great place to find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other food products. Spring also means flowers in Eastern Market’s sheds, and lots of them.

Eastern Market is also a great place to find flowers and plants. Many vendors sell spring flowers like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, as well as a variety of herbs, shrubs, and trees. Flower Day is scheduled or May 21, 2023, and you’ll find tons of beautiful annuals and perennials for planting at great prices.

Use our guide to the best Michigan Farmers Markets for more information.

Kayak the Huron River in Ann Arbor

Launch your own kayak or rent one at Argo Park, 1055 Longshore Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48105. The slow-moving and gentle Huron River is a scenic river that winds through Ann Arbor. You’ll pass by forests, meadows, and wetlands.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, especially herons and deer. You’ll also see some turtles, and fish too. This is one my favorite places to kayak in southeast Michigan.

Spring Trip Ideas in West Michigan

Explore Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids

Meijer Gardens features over 30 acres of outdoor gardens with a variety of unique plants, sculptures, and water features. The gardens are divided into several themed areas, including the Japanese Garden, the English Perennial and Bulb Garden, and the Michigan Farm Garden.

You’ll also find indoor gardens featuring a Tropical Conservatory, the Arid Garden, and the Carnivorous Plant House, as well as an amazing sculpture park.

Visit the Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary in Newaygo

If you love flowers, especially Michigan wildflowers, you’ll want to visit Loda Lake Wildflower Sanctuary. Located in the Huron-Manistee National Forests, you’ll find 100 acres of protected land surrounding beautiful Loda Lake.

Known for its diverse array of wildflowers that bloom in spring and summer seasons, you might see trillium, jack-in-the-pulpit, mayapple, bloodroot and other rare Michigan wildflowers.

Check out the West Michigan Beer Scene

Also known as “Beer City,” Grand Rapids is home to some amazing breweries offering craft beer and cider as well as food.

Check out Founders, famous for its flavorful and creative beers like All Day IPA and Kentucky Breakfast Stout. They also offer a variety of food options in their taproom, including pizza, sandwiches, and salads.

Explore Grand Haven

Grand Haven is a great destination for springtime visitors when you can beat the crowds. Wander Grand Haven’s charming downtown area, filled with unique shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Take a hike at Rosy Mound Natural Area, which features a trail system that leads visitors through sand dunes and forests, and then catch a spectacular Lake Michigan sunset at Grand Haven State Park.

Go Hiking in Millenium Park in Grand Rapids

One of the top parks in Grand Rapids, this sprawling natural area on the west side of the city is a must-visit in the springtime.

You’ll find a beautiful Michigan beach at Millenium Park with a lake featuring kayaks and canoes. Pick a hiking trail and see a variety of native plants and wildlife, and there’s a huge playground for kids here, too.

Spring Things to Do in the Upper Peninsula

Search for Yooperlites in Marquette MI

Ever seen a Yooperlite? Michigan’s mysterious glowing rocks can be found on Lake Superior beaches across the Upper Peninsula, but spring is a great time to hit the beaches without the crowds!

Grab your flashlight and head out at dusk to catch a glimpse of these elusive fluorescent sodalite rocks!

Ski in Copper Harbor

You can still do some spring skiing in Copper Harbor. Mount Bohemia is home to the most extreme skiing in the Midwest. You’ll find the highest vertical drop here, too, and you also try some off-piste and back country skiing here, too.

Copper Harbor is also the jumping off point for a trip to Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior.

Wander the Eastern Upper Peninsula

Cross the Mackinac Bridge to St. Ignace and head east towards the Les Cheneaux Islands.

A group of 36 small islands located in the eastern part of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, along the northern shores of Lake Huron, the Les Cheneaux Islands are a hidden gem in Michigan. Drive the coast through charming small towns like Cedarville and Hessel.

You’ll find stunning scenery including clear blue waters, dense forests, and rocky shorelines for kayaking and canoeing.

For a complete spring tour of the eastern Upper Peninsula, head west toward De Tour Village where you can catch a ferry to Drummond Island. You’ll also want to head north to the Soo Locks, where a river is actually raised and lowered to allow ships to pass through!

Hike the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Spring is the perfect time to visit the Pictured Rocks, before the throngs of crowds that flock to this top Michigan vacation spot. You’ll find more than 40 miles of stunning Lake Superior shoreline featuring towering sandstone cliffs, dunes, waterfalls and hiking trails.

Take a guided kayaking tour of the cliffs, or head out on one of the Pictured Rocks sightseeing boats to catch an amazing view of the naturally-painted rocks.

Take a Hand-Operated Raft across Kitch Iti Kipi Natural Spring

Kitch iti Kipi is a natural freshwater spring is located in Palms Book State Park, near the town of Manistique.

The largest natural springs in Michigan, you’ll be amazed at the incredibly clear, turquoise-blue water. Ride the hand-operated raft across the spring and peer 40 feet down ot the bottom of the spring, where you’ll see large fish swimming. Michigan’s “Big Spring” is surrounded by lush green forests and wildlife, and it is a pristine setting in the springtime. Don’t miss these beautiful springs in Michigan.

Things to Do in Spring in Northern Michigan

Hike the Highbanks Trail Along the Au Sable River

Pick up this more than seven-mile hiking trail that follows the Au Sable River near the Lumberman’s Monument. This moderately difficult trail towers high above the river and offers stunning views of the Au Sable River and the surrounding wilderness.

You’ll see a variety of wildlife, including deer, bald eagles, and ospreys. When you’re done with your hike, head into Oscoda. Located on the shores of Lake Huron, you’ll find stunning beachfront to walk and a cute downtown area, too.

Try Some Michigan Wine in Traverse City

Traverse City is home to numerous wineries and vineyards, both on Old Mission Peninsula and along the Leelanau Peninsula. The setting provides perfect conditions for grape-growing, and you’ll wind some world-class wineries here. Some of my favorites include:

• Black Star Farms – Known for their award-winning wines and exceptional hospitality, this winery is a must-visit. They have two locations, one in Suttons Bay and one in Traverse City.
• Chateau Chantal – This winery offers stunning views of the bay from their amazing patio, and an impressive selection of wines.
  Verterra Winery – This eco-friendly winery offers a beautiful tasting room in Leland and a range of sustainably-produced wines. The Sparkling Pinot Noir is amazing.
• Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery – This family-owned winery offers a beautiful tasting room and a wide variety of wines to try.
• Mari Vineyards – With its Tuscan-inspired architecture and breathtaking views, you’ll love Mari Vineyards.
• Left Foot Charley – This urban winery offers a unique experience with its converted warehouse tasting room and innovative wines.
• Bowers Harbor Vineyards – Located on the Old Mission Peninsula, this winery offers a rustic tasting room and a range of delicious wines.
• Hawthorne Vineyards – This small, family-owned winery is known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
• Peninsula Cellars – This charming winery offers a cozy tasting room and a range of award-winning wines.
• Shady Lane Cellars – With its picturesque setting and delicious wines, Shady Lane Cellars is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts.

Most of them offer tastings and tours in the spring, and it’s a perfect time to sample the local wines while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Do a Cherry Blossom Tour in Traverse City

Traverse City is known as the Cherry Capital of the World, and the annual Cherry Festival in July is a highlight of the summer season. Head north to TC in May to celebrate the arrival of spring and see the blooming of the cherry trees.

There are many spots throughout the area to see the cherry trees in full blooms, and beautiful Old Mission Peninsula is one of the best. Be sure to bring your camera, you’ll want to capture snaps of this amazingly scenic area!

Pool Hop at Boyne Mountain and Avalanche Bay

Avalanche Bay is one of the best indoor water parks in Michigan and an all-around fun center at Boyne Mountain.

Known for its thrilling water rides, you’ll find almost 100,00 square feet of water park featuring a lazy river, water slides, hot tubs and FlowRider, a surfing simulator. You’ll find fun for all ages here, making Boyne Mountain one of the perfect spring break hotels.

Celebrate with a Spring Festival in Michigan

Spring is the perfect time for a Michigan festival and here are a few of our favorites to check out.

National Morel Mushroom Festival

If you’ve ever tried a morel mushroom, chances are good that you’re a fan of these deeply flavored morsels and will enjoy a good mushroom festival.

Head north to Boyne City’s National Morel Mushroom Festival on May 18-21, 2023, where you can sample gourmet morel dishes, go on a morel hunt, try some local Michigan wines and just have fun. You’ll find outdoor music, arts and crafts, a carnival and more.

Lilac Festival on Mackinac Island

The lilacs are in bloom on Mackinac Island and it’s time to celebrate! The popular Mackinac Island Lilac Festival is scheduled for June 9 – 18, 2023. This celebration of the island’s rich history and its beautiful lilac blooms includes a wide variety of events and activities, including a parade, a 10K race, a dog and pony show, live music performances.

Tulip Time Festival

Head west to Holland Michigan for the annual Tulip Time festival, held May 6- 14. 2023. This celebration of Dutch heritage and culture is a showcase for the city’s beautiful tulip gardens, which feature more than six million tulips in bloom. The festival also features a carnival with rides and games, a marketplace with vendors selling crafts and souvenirs, and fireworks display.

Maple Syrup Festivals in Spring

Spring means maple syrup in Michigan, and that means lots of fun maple syrup festival and events! Here are a few of favorites:

Vermontville Maple Syrup Festival in Vermontville, MI

Scheduled for April 28- 30, 2023, this fun festival has so much to do all weekend long! You’ll find something for everyone here: carnival rides, a talent show, arts and crafts, a flea market, two parades, a petting zoo, a princess pageant, various displays, games, free entertainment, a pancake derby, and arm wrestling, too.

Shepherd Maple Syrup Festival in Shepherd, MI

Don’t miss this fun mid-Michigan festival scheduled for April 27-30, 2023. Not only will you get a glimpse into the Maple Syrup making process, you’ll also find plenty of sweet maple treats to sample.
With pageants, a 5K, a parade, and plenty of maple syrup to go around, this is a central Michigan springtime favorite.

More Things to Do in Michigan in Spring

• Visit the Easter Bunny
• Go on an Easter Egg Hunt
• Celebrate Mother’s Day

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Even More Things to Do in Michigan in Spring