Sleeping Bear Dunes national lakeshore in Michigan is one of things to do in michigan in the summer

25 Best Things to Do in Michigan This Summer (From Someone Who Does Them Every Year)

There is magic to be found in a Michigan summer.
The list of things to do in Michigan in summer is endless, so I’ve created a summer vacation bucket list filled with pure Michigan fun.
Summer in Michigan means cool blue water for swimming and boating, endless miles of trails for hiking, and tons of Michigan beaches for exploring.
If you made it through winter in Michigan, you deserve to experience the beautiful warmth of summer! From splash pads to farmers markets, from county fairs to hot air balloon festivals, there are tons of fun activities to add to your ultimate Michigan bucket list of summer activities.
Here are 25 of the best things to do in Michigan in summer.

tents along a river

Michigan River Camping: 10 Best Rivers to Paddle and Camp (2026)

River camping is a fun and exciting way to experience the many beautiful bodies of water Michigan offers.
There’s something so enticing about packing up, situating yourself in a canoe or kayak, and floating down the river to experience Michigan’s natural beauties. Whether you enjoy fishing, rowing, or just want to take on a challenge, river camping is sure to provide something for you to enjoy.
There are so many rivers to choose from in Michigan, and it may be overwhelming to narrow down which ones you want to visit on your trip.
This list compiles ten of our favorite spots you should consider on your next river camping trip, with suggested boat launching coordinates to accompany the descriptions.

Bicycles on Mackinac island

How to Get Around Mackinac Island: Bikes, Carriages, Horses & More (2026)

For those interested in calm breezes, bikes, and beautiful sights and scenery, here’s a guide to Mackinac Island Bike Rentals and Trails on the Island.
One of my favorite ways to explore Mackinac is on two wheels. Whether I’m bike riding along the Lake Huron coast on the paved trails or exploring the interior of the island on the unpaved trails, biking on Mackinac Island is an unforgettable experience.

south haven lighthouse on lake michigan near one of the top south haven campgrounds

Best Camping in South Haven, MI (Campgrounds, RV Parks, Tent Camping, Glamping, Cabins)

Planning some camping in South Haven, Michigan?
It’s that time of the year, when the days are longer and warmer and all you want to do is spend all day basking in the sun. It’s when any whiff of campfire smoke sends a wave of nostalgia through your bones and all you can think about is how badly you want to cook some s’mores.
It’s time to go camping.

view of mackianc island and the harbor

Your Ultimate Guide to Mackinac Island, Michigan (2026 Edition)

If you haven’t visited the beautiful Mackinac Island MI, it should be at the top of your Michigan bucket list. Nothing is quite like it – the lakeside views while biking on the coast; the quaint, car-free village with a connected community; the mouth-watering fudge on virtually every corner of the island.

With a Mackinac Island Michigan guide like this one, you’ll be able to plan your vacation and explore Mackinac without missing anything. Whether you’re getting ready for a solo trip to Mackinac or you’re visiting Mackinac Island with kids and other family, there is an endless supply of things to do and enjoy during your stay. Also, if you’re looking for Mackinac Island date ideas, you’ve come to the right place!

traverse city harbor

25 Best Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan: A Local’s Guide for Every Season

Traverse City is located in Michigan’s Northwest Region of the Lower Peninsula and is home to miles of picturesque hiking and biking trails, endless local breweries and wineries, miles of sandy shores along turquoise blue waters, and a quaint downtown life perfect for shopping, enjoying local restaurants, and family fun!

mackinac island overview

17 Best Michigan Islands to Visit in 2026: Your Complete Guide

Michigan Islands?
That’s right. When you think about the mitten-shaped state of Michigan, the word “island” doesn’t come to mind. Beautiful lakes? Check. Amazing hiking trails? Check. Culinary craft? Check. All four seasons? Check. The list goes on and on.

But now, Islands?
Michigan offers all there is to have in a state and more, and now these 17 Must-Visit Michigan Islands are ones to add to the top of your to-do list when it comes to new treasured experiences in Michigan. From populated islands to remote isles, there is an island in Michigan for you.
For a memorable escape and a unique adventure, these Michigan Islands will have you forgetting you’re located in the Midwest.

the belle isle aquarium in detroit

Belle Isle Aquarium: A Complete Guide to Detroit’s Historic Gem

Detroit’s Belle Isle Aquarium is one of southeast Michigan’s best-kept secrets.
Want to go eye-to-eye with a Moray Eel? Or have an unforgettable encounter with an Albino African Clawed Frog? How about peeking in on some Michigan Gar Pike?
You can do all of these things at the Belle Isle Aquarium, a family-friendly aquarium on Belle Isle in Detroit. You’ll find a huge collection of fish from the Great Lakes region, and get an up close look at some local species of fish and other aquatic life.
Read on to discover everything you need to plan a visit to this amazing public aquarium in southeast Michigan.

Crystal Mountain resort in Michigan in winter

10 Best Michigan Winter Resorts Hotels: Ski Lodges, Waterparks & Cozy Getaways Unforgettable Getaways

These Michigan winter resorts and hotels are a perfect escape when the cool weather hits and snowy winter sports beckon. The best news? They all have different price points, so you can find the one that fits your budget best and still have lots of winter fun.
Sure, you may have visited these spots in the summer, but winter brings even more opportunity to get outdoors and explore. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend trip idea or simply craving a cool outdoor adventure, there are plenty of hotels and resorts in Michigan for you to enjoy a fun winter activity or relax and take in the stunning beauty of Michigan in the winter.

Man cross country skiing in michigan on a nordic racing trail

40+ Best Cross-Country Skiing Trails in Michigan: Complete Guide + Map (2026)

There’s no better way to take in the natural beauty of Michigan than on a pair of cross country skis.

Imagine gliding through pristine forests under snow-capped pines and a bright blue sky; the peaceful sounds of nature surrounding you. It’s no wonder that cross country skiing in Michigan is one of the fastest-growing winter activities. It’s almost the perfect winter sport: easy to learn; relatively inexpensive (especially compared to downhill skiing and snowboarding); and great exercise.

People hiking in Michigan in the winter

50 Best Things to Do in Michigan in Winter (2026 Bucket List)

There’s nothing quite like wintertime in Michigan, when the frozen lakes and fresh snowfall turn the whole state into a sparkling winter wonderland.

Along the Great Lakes coastlines, the icy-blue water rolls onto the shores and piles up to create naturally-spectacular scenery that is both breathtaking and other-worldly.

The rolling hills and forests are also softly blanketed in snow and make a giant winter playground for kids and adults alike.

Winter is a great time to travel Michigan, exploring some favorite places, and discovering new

five wool mittens against a blue sky

10 Best Michigan Winter Family Getaways: Weekend Trips Your Kids Will Never Forget

As the snow begins to fall across Michigan, it’s time to gear up for some Michigan-style winter fun.

Whether that means relaxing at a cozy bed and breakfast with a warm whirlpool tub, taking a sleigh ride across a snowy field of rolling hills, or skiing down a perfectly-groomed mountainside, you can find a perfect winter getaway in Michigan.

people camping in michigan in the winter

10 Best Winter Camping Spots in Michigan: State Parks, Cabins & Snowy Adventures

We all know that Michigan State Parks are a special treat for summer visitors, but did you also know that they’re a perfect spot for a wonderful winter getaway?

Michigan State Parks are a special place in winter: the cabins become cozier, the trails become calm and the still silence of the woods is broken only by the crunching of snow underfoot as you explore the awesome beauty of the open land.

three kids snow tubing in michigan

40+ Best Snow Tubing Hills in Michigan: Prices, Hours & Tips (2026)

Once the crisp winter Michigan air sets in, it’s time to break out our favorite hot cocoa mug and start making plans for snow days even before they happen.

Snow tubing is one of the most exhilarating ways to spend a snowy afternoon in Michigan. The best part of snow tubing? The lack of skill you need to have the most fun you’ll ever have: sit on a tube atop a snowy hill and down you go!

Make one of these pure Michigan spots your go-to snow day location. Whether you’re more of a thrill-seeker or whether you like a leisurely ride down a scenic mountain, you’re sure to fall in love with it.

Sleeping Bear Dunes with lake michigan in bakcground

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Complete Visitor’s Guide (2026)

Information and tips about visiting the Sleeping Bear Dunes area. Find the best beaches in the Sleeping Bear Dunes area. Find information about Lake Michigan beach activities and beach amenities in the Sleeping Bear Dunes area and Lake Michigan area. Learn where to swim, eat, stay and play in the Sleeping Bear Dunes area and Lake Michigan area.