Michigan Attractions
The tourist and travel opportunities in the state of Michigan extend to an array of cities, restaurants, venues, and night clubs for those interested in a Michigan city experience and nightlife, a series of landmarks, museums, and historical locations for people interested in the rich historical experience, and an extensive forests, rivers, and lakes for people interested in the wilderness. Michigan offers an entertaining and fun experience no matter what the nature of the visit.
With over 50% of the state covered by forest, 97 state parks and 4 national parks, extensive rivers and trails, 11,000 inland lakes, as well as the Great Lakes, it is hard not to find something attractive about the Michigan wilderness no matter if you are a hunter, camper, or just enjoy the wilderness. One of the most notable national parks in Michigan is Keweenaw National Historic State Park. Located on the Keweenaw Peninsula this park offers plenty of activities and history to explore.
During the summer various hiking, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, camping, and biking are common recreational activities available. In winter the snow fall makes Keweenaw a great location for skiing, snowboarding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling. There are also museums, mine tours, and theatrical performances to encompass the historical aspect of the park.
Harbor Country offers a shore side country feeling, consisting of small lakeside towns, beaches, and beautiful country side, make this a unique must see section of Michigan. Featuring 11 wineries, small town charm, quaint shops and diners, and beautiful sunsets Harbor Country is the perfect getaway.
If immersion of history is your pleasure then the Thunder Bay National Underwater Marine Sanctuary in Alpena offers a historical experience in the Great Lakes past. For a full historical experience a visit to the Crossroads Village by way of the steam powered Huckleberry Railroad paves way to an 1800’s village, featuring periods dress, arts, skills, and lives.
Another remarkable historic experience can be found at Colonial Michilimackinac on Mackinac Island, as a recreation of a fur trade outpost of the 18th century, featuring British Redcoats, black powder muskets, and cannons. Muskegon, Michigan is home to both a World War II submarine and a Prohibition Era Coast Guard Cutter, both of these historical ships are stationed at the Great Lakes Naval Memorial and Museum.
Those seeking the excitement of the city or night life, than Michigan has four prime locations for experiencing the city: Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Ann Arbor. Grand Rapids downtown area is splendid section of the city with multiple dining, venues, museums, and clubs. Grand Rapid is also host to the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, a 125 acre botanical garden and sculptures. Lansing stands as the state capital, but also is host to the Michigan Historical Museum, Oldsmobile Park, and Michigan State University.
The city of Ann Arbor is one of Michigan’s most unique cities featuring the African American Cultural and Historical Museum, the Performance Network, and a unique Farmers’ Market. Detroit stands as Michigan’s largest city and features many extravagant attractions, such as The Henry Ford the nation’s largest indoor-outdoor history museum which displays items of historical significance and pays homage to the Industrial Revolution, as well as a vibrant downtown with many restaurants and night life spots, as well as the MGM Grand Hotel. Detroit also features several cultural sections of the city, such as Greektown.
In between all of these specially mentioned locations are destinations and areas that offer even more adventure, relaxation, and recreation. There is much to see and do in the state of Michigan, and plenty more to explore and even more to discover.
