Off The Beaten Path | Michigan

Welcome to beautiful Michigan! Below you will find out about just a few of the amazing places and activities the great state of Michigan has to offer. You may or may not have heard about these places, but they're sure to offer terrific memories, stories, and vivid experiences.

Frankenmuth

The little Bavarian town of Frankenmuth was founded in 1845 by German missionary families. It has a definite old world charm which draws and delights visitors. During a visit to the town you can take a horse-drawn carraige ride around the town. At the Frankenmuth Historical Museum visitors can learn about the area's history. You can also enjoy the local Weathervane Folk Art Show and the Zeesenagel Italian Village.

Mackinac Island

This beautiful island is a fabulous destination for all visitors to Michigan. On this island you will find Michigan's first state park, Mackinac Island State Park, and you can even take a horse drawn carriage tour of the park. Also on the island is Fort Mackinac. At Fort Mackinac you can be transported back in time with the re-enactors portraying 1880s Victorian soldiers and ladies. You can also tour the original buildings and enjoy many more attractions.

The Henry Ford Estate

The Henry Ford Estate is an amazing historical landmark and offers a different view into the Ford empire. This estate was the home of Henry Ford and gives you a chance to see the inside of the lavish home. Within the 31,000 acres of the home there are 56 rooms and even a pool room with steam heated benches. Visitors to the estate can also check out the estate's own power plant, which is still operational and generating power today.

Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale is special - the island's isolation means that it is only accessible by boat. Once there you can enjoy the wilderness that has been protected by its isolation. The island has a beautiful, rugged coast that can be explored by canoe or kayak. You can also explore the island by hiking its many trails. Another unique feature of the island is the shipwrecks, which can also be explored.

Holland

This little town is unique in its celebration of its Dutch heritage. For visitors looking to enjoy local history, the Holland Museum and the Cappon House are great destinations. The Dutch culture is also evident at Windmill Island, which has the only working Dutch Windmill in the United States. In early May visitors will be delighted with the Tulip Festival. This ten day festival has everything, including plenty of tulips and people wearing wooden shoes. Throughout the festival there are parades and many other types of entertainment.

Ann Arbor

For visitors to Michigan looking for a great city experience, Ann Arbor is a fabulous destination. This city blends art, culture and recreation in surprising ways. The art is continually changing, and there are visual arts, as well as theatre and music. In addition, the city has art festivals, heritage festivals and much more. Of course you can also spend time enjoying the antiquing and local markets. If you are looking for a little outdoor time the Huron-Clinton Metroparks have plenty of recreation to offer. After all of that fun, you are definitely going to want to enjoy some of Ann Arbors excellent dining options.

Paul Bunyan Festival

If you like to plan vacations around exciting and unique events, then a visit to Oscoda, Michigan during the Paul Bunyan Festival at the end of August is a great option for you. During the festival you will have the opportunity to enjoy the great story of Paul Bunyan. The festival's activities include a chainsaw carving contest, a Lumberjack show and an antique car show. If you want to stay longer than the three days of the festival, the area has lots of other activities to offer. The nearby AuSable River and Lake Huron provide many recreational options for all visitors.

Silver Lake Sand Dunes

Looking for a little fun at the beach? Stop at Silver Lake Sand Dunes. The dunes are located in the Silver Lake State Park. These dunes are located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this is a great place to enjoy water sports and a fund day at the beach. These dunes are a great spot to climb up the dunes, enjoy the 2,000 acres of sand hills and just sit back and relax. Silver Lake Sand Dunes is also the only place in Michigan where you can drive on the dunes, either in your own 4-wheel vehicle or on a tour.

South Haven

For visitors looking for a more resort style vacation South Haven is an ideal destination. In this town on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking and much more. The town also has great antiquing and it is home to a stunning 100 year old lighthouse. Golfers will also enjoy this destination, as they can take advantage of the championship course. South Haven is even a great winter destination, the winter provides spectacular vistas of snow covered beaches and more.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

This state park is home to not one but two stunning and pristine waterfalls. For visitors seeking a little peace in some undisturbed wilderness this is the perfect destination. In addition to the two falls there are 40 miles of hiking trails on which you will find an abundance of wildlife. The park also has 13 inland lakes for visitors to enjoy. The waterfalls are fed by the Tahquamenon River, and 24 miles of the river flow through the Tahquamenon Falls State Park.