Must Visit Attractions
Michigan’s Northwest Lower Peninsula is home to a remarkable variety of attractions, from stunning natural preserves to artistic landmarks and unique architectural treasures. Here’s a guide to some must-visit locations, complete locations and websites to help you plan your journey.
Arcadia Dunes: The C.S. Mott Nature Preserve
📍Gilbert Road & 7292 Swamp Rd, Arcadia
🌐Visit Website
Arcadia Dunes is the Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy’s largest preserve, featuring over 15 miles of trails that traverse dunes, forests, and other landscapes. Don’t miss the universally accessible Overlook Trail, which leads to a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan. Nature Preserve Map
Art Rapids
📍920 S. Bayshore Dr., Elk Rapids
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Art Rapids is nestled within a 15-acre day park offering forest trails, dunes, and a quarter-mile of beachfront along East Grand Traverse Bay. With picnic sites, charcoal grills, and a handicap-accessible pavilion, it’s perfect for a serene escape. Art Walk self guided tour map
Beaver Island
📍Island in Lake Michigan
🌐Visit Website
The largest island in Lake Michigan, Beaver Island is known for its peaceful atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and exceptional stargazing opportunities. Explore by bicycle, bring your car via ferry, or rent one to circle the island and experience its charm.
Fisherman’s Island State Park
📍Bell’s Bay Road, Charlevoix
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Just four miles from downtown Charlevoix, this park features over six miles of pristine Lake Michigan shoreline. Depending on water levels, the park’s namesake island transforms into a peninsula for visitors to explore. Park Map
Fishtown/Leland
📍Downtown Leland
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Fishtown’s weathered shanties, fish tugs, and docks preserve the spirit of Lake Michigan’s fishing heritage. Explore this living legacy in the heart of Leland while enjoying charming shops and stunning riverfront views.
Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area
📍3169 Eckhardt Rd, Bellaire
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Home to 12 unique habitat types, this area boasts diverse ecosystems, hundreds of plant and bird species, and trails perfect for hiking and birdwatching. It also plays a critical role in protecting the Chain of Lakes watershed. While this property was protected by GTRLC, it is managed by Friends of Glacial Hills and owned by Antrim County, Forest Home Township and the Village of Bellaire.
Grand Traverse Lighthouse
📍15500 N. Lighthouse Pt. Rd., Northport
🌐Visit Website
Located within Leelanau State Park, this restored lighthouse offers seasonal tours of the keeper’s dwelling and stunning views from its tower. It’s a historic gem surrounded by natural beauty.
Grass River Natural Area
📍6500 Alden Highway, Bellaire
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Explore 1,502 acres of wetlands, forests, and the Grass River on seven miles of trails, including 1.5 miles of boardwalk. The year-round Grass River Center hosts educational programs and events
Gwen Frostic Prints
📍5140 River Road, Benzonia
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Visit the studio of Michigan’s beloved nature artist, Gwen Frostic, where her intricate linoleum block designs are brought to life through letterpress printing. It’s a must-see for art and nature enthusiasts alike.
Headlands International Dark Sky Park
📍15675 Headlands Rd, Mackinaw City
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This 550-acre park is a haven for stargazers and nature lovers. With miles of trails and undeveloped shoreline, it offers stunning views of the night sky, free from light pollution. Headlands International Dark Sky Park Brochure
Jordan Art Walk
📍Beginning – 101 Spring St, East Jordan
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This outdoor art exhibit features sculptures placed along a scenic walking route. Enjoy fresh air, exercise, and the chance to admire and purchase unique works from talented artists. Jordan Art Walk self guided tour map
Jordan River National Fish Hatchery
📍6623 Turner Road, Elmira
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The Jordan River National Fish Hatchery produces over 3 million fish annually. It offers a fascinating look at fish life stages, from eggs to adults. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnicking, and exploring the picturesque valley during any season.
Merritt Speedway
📍4430 East Houghton Lake Road, Lake City
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Catch thrilling motorsport action every Saturday night at Michigan’s finest clay oval track. The speedway features late models, modifieds, and more, with a playground for kids and free parking for visitors.
Michigan Legacy Art Park
📍7300 Mountainside Drive, Thompsonville,
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This unique 31-acre sculpture park combines art and nature, with two miles of trails winding through a hardwood forest. Explore works that tell the stories of Michigan’s culture and history.
Mission Point Lighthouse
📍20500 Center Road, Traverse City
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Located at the tip of Old Mission Peninsula, this historic lighthouse offers tours and a glimpse into life as a lighthouse keeper. The drive to the site, surrounded by cherry orchards and vineyards, is equally scenic.
Mitchell State Park
📍6093 E. M-115, Cadillac
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Situated between Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell, this 660-acre park is a hotspot for camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. A canal connects the two lakes, adding to the park’s charm.
Mushroom Houses
📍Downtown Charlevoix
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Designed by Earl Young, Charlevoix’s iconic Mushroom Houses feature whimsical stonework and enchanting designs that blend with their natural surroundings. These architectural masterpieces are a must-see. Mushroom House self guided tour map
Oden State Fish Hatchery Visitor Center
📍3377 US 31, Oden
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Discover Michigan’s fishing heritage at this hatchery and visitor center. Learn about the state’s fishery operations and explore the grounds, including a replica stream.
Petoskey State Park
📍2475 M-119 Hwy., Petoskey
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Known for its mile-long beach along Lake Michigan, this park is a great spot to hunt for Petoskey stones, hike scenic trails, or relax in a modern campground. Park Map
Platte River State Fish Hatchery
📍15210 US 31, Beulah
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Established in 1928, this hatchery became Michigan’s main salmon hatchery in 1972. Tour the facility and learn about the state’s efforts to maintain healthy fish populations.
Point Betsie Light House
📍3701 Point Betsie Rd, Frankfort
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Explore a place where Great Lakes maritime history comes to life. At Point Betsie Lighthouse, you’ll learn about the daily life of lighthouse keepers, their routines, and the dangers of Lake Michigan rescues. Peer out from the lighthouse tower, imagining hundreds of vessels carrying iron ore, wheat, and timber sailing for Chicago, Milwaukee, or Marquette.
S.S. City of Milwaukee & USCGC Acacia
📍99 Arthur Street, Manistee
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S.S. City of Milwaukee: The last of six sister ships designed in the 1920s, this historic car ferry offers tours, event rentals, and even a bed-and-breakfast experience from May through early September. It also hosts the annual Ghost Ship Haunted House every October.
USCGC Acacia: A 180-foot buoy tender built for the US Coast Guard during World War II. Now available for tours and facility rentals, this vessel offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history.
Seven Bridges Nature Preserve
📍Valley Rd, Rapid City
🌐Visit Website
This serene preserve features rustic bridges spanning the Rapid River’s braided channels. Stroll along trails and boardwalks surrounded by cedar trees and discover remnants of an 1882 sawmill. Though its name suggests otherwise, only four bridges remain today, adding to its unique charm.
Shay Locomotive
📍130 W Cass St, Cadillac
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Located in Cadillac’s City Park, this historic Shay Locomotive symbolizes ingenuity in Michigan’s lumbering history. Perfected by Ephraim Shay in 1878, this locomotive navigated steep grades and sharp turns, helping Cadillac prosper as a lumbering community.
Skybridge Michigan
📍1 Boyne Mountain Road, Boyne Falls
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Walk the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge! Stretching 1,200 feet long and 118 feet high, Skybridge Michigan offers stunning views year-round. In winter, the “Lights in the Sky” event features 200,000 twinkling lights, creating a magical experience.
Sleeping Bear Dunes and Pierce Stocking Drive
📍9922 Front Street, Empire
🌐Visit Website
Discover miles of sandy beaches, towering bluffs, and breathtaking views at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Highlights include:
- The Dune Climb: A challenging but rewarding trek with a stunning view of Glen Lake.
- Pierce Stocking Drive: A 7.4-mile scenic drive with 12 stops featuring dunes, forest trails, and Lake Michigan vistas.
- Glen Haven Historic Village: A glimpse into Michigan’s past with preserved buildings from a former cordwood station.
- The Manitou Islands: North and South Manitou Islands, accessible by ferry, offer serene hiking and historic landmarks.
- Port Oneida Historic District: A collection of preserved turn-of-the-century farms showcasing early agricultural life.
The Boardman Lake Loop Trail
📍Boardman Lake, Traverse City
🌐Visit Website
This 4-mile trail circles Boardman Lake, combining urban and wooded settings. Highlights include bridges, boardwalks, lookout piers, fishing decks, and kayak launches, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Trail Map
The Tunnel of Trees
📍M119, Harbor Springs to Cross Village
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Drive along the 20-mile Tunnel of Trees scenic route on M-119. Experience stunning tree canopies, quaint small towns, and incredible Lake Michigan views. Stop for local cuisine and capture memorable photos along the way.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
📍830 Cottageview Drive, Traverse City
🌐Visit Website
This historic former asylum is now a thriving community with unique shops, restaurants, and events. As one of the nation’s largest historic preservation projects, the Village is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Veterans Memorial Park Elk Rapids
📍River Street, Elk Rapids
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This scenic park along Grand Traverse Bay offers a modest beach, picnic spots, tennis and basketball courts, wooded birdwatching areas, and a playground perfect for families.
Plan Your Trip
Whether you’re chasing sunsets on Lake Michigan, exploring art and culture, or venturing into natural preserves, the Northwest Lower Peninsula is a destination for everyone.
