THINGS TO DO IN MICHIGAN

Discover Events, Entertainment, and Stay Options in Michigan

Michigan is a state known for its Great Lakes shoreline, automotive history, outdoor recreation, and vibrant cities. From the urban energy of Detroit and Grand Rapids to the scenic beauty of Mackinac Island and the Upper Peninsula, Michigan offers a mix of cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and iconic festivals. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, attending major sporting events, or enjoying the state’s craft beer scene, this page highlights the best things to do throughout Michigan.

Find the Best Places to Eat and Drink

Michigan’s food scene is a mix of Midwestern comfort food, fresh seafood, and international flavors. The state is known for Detroit-style pizza, Coney dogs, and pasties—a popular dish from Michigan’s mining heritage. Detroit’s Greektown and Corktown feature award-winning restaurants, craft cocktail bars, and trendy eateries. Grand Rapids, known as Beer City USA, has a thriving craft beer scene with breweries offering local IPAs and stouts. Along the Great Lakes shoreline, visitors can enjoy freshly caught whitefish, cherry-inspired dishes, and locally produced wines from the Traverse City region.

Hotels, Resorts, and Unique Stays

Michigan provides a variety of accommodations, from luxury city hotels and boutique inns to lakeside resorts and cozy cabins. Downtown Detroit and Grand Rapids feature stylish hotels within walking distance of nightlife and entertainment. The Mackinac Island area offers historic resorts and charming bed-and-breakfasts, while the Upper Peninsula is perfect for those seeking remote lodges and waterfront rentals. Lake Michigan’s west coast, including Traverse City and Holland, features beachfront cottages and resort-style stays.

Social and Cultural Hotspots

Michigan has a thriving arts, music, and nightlife scene across its cities and towns. Detroit’s Greektown, Midtown, and Eastern Market are hotspots for live music, sports bars, and dance clubs. Grand Rapids’ Downtown Entertainment District features live performances, rooftop lounges, and craft breweries. The Ann Arbor area, home to the University of Michigan, offers a bohemian arts scene, indie music venues, and eclectic cafes. The state also hosts music festivals, car shows, and art fairs year-round.

Historical and Local Landmarks

Michigan is rich in history, from the birth of the automotive industry to its role in the Underground Railroad. The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn showcases the state’s contributions to car manufacturing and innovation. The Mackinac Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in the world, connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The Detroit Institute of Arts houses a world-class art collection, including the famous Diego Rivera murals. Historic sites like Fort Mackinac, the Soo Locks, and the Motown Museum highlight Michigan’s diverse cultural and industrial heritage.

Things to Do in Michigan

Michigan offers outdoor adventures, major sporting events, and cultural festivals year-round. Visitors can explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, go boating on the Great Lakes, or hike in the Porcupine Mountains. Sports fans can catch a Detroit Lions NFL game at Ford Field, a Detroit Tigers baseball game at Comerica Park, or a Detroit Red Wings hockey game at Little Caesars Arena. The state hosts major events such as the North American International Auto Show, Tulip Time Festival in Holland, and the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City. Whether you’re here for outdoor activities, live music, or historic attractions, this page provides everything you need to explore Michigan.