With Valentine’s Day coming up, it’s time to plan something grand for your better half. While some might grab a box of chocolates or book a fancy dinner and call it a day, it might not be enough for couples craving something beyond the ordinary. In that case, a road trip to Michigan might be the perfect romantic getaway.
Famous for its Great Lakes and charming small towns, Michigan boasts amazing waterfront views, picturesque wineries, and even more scenic drives, making it the ultimate dreamy destination for those who have just started dating or are celebrating decades of love.
Thankfully, most parks feature accessible trails for romantic strolls, museums have ramp entryways and elevators, and downtown areas boast smooth pedestrian-friendly walkways, while restaurants have low tables and spacious layouts for an intimate yet accessible dining experience.
Romantic & Accessible Destinations for Your Valentine’s Day Road Trip in Michigan
Below are some of the best places to visit in Michigan for your Valentine’s Day getaway:
Ann Arbor
Whether you want to impress your date in a classic romantic style or rekindle the flame for your other half, there’s no shortage of fun and romantic things in Ann Arbor. Start your romantic getaway at the University of Michigan campus. Its smooth walkways and historic buildings provide the perfect backdrop for hand holding and romantic selfies.
If you’re in love with a bookworm, take them to the quirky Literati Bookstore, where you might find that one perfect read that sums up your feelings better than you ever could. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens features a wheelchair-accessible building, outdoor patio, and picnic areas, making it the perfect place to steal a kiss while surrounded by beautiful flowers.
Afterwards, head over to State Street District to attend an amazing cultural fair or festival. If you both are foodies, Ann Arbor’s pedestrian-friendly Kerrytown street is teeming with creative eateries. Zingerman’s Deli? Iconic. Miss Kim? Mouth-watering. Slurping Turtle? Fun to say and delicious to eat. Feeling fancy? Dine at VinBar, where you can sample wine from northern Michigan wineries like Black Star Farms, Mawby, and Good Harbor Vineyards.
You can’t leave Ann Arbor without venturing into The Ark. This folk music venue offers live music that’ll have you slow-dancing all night long. When it’s finally time to call it a day, snuggle up at The Kensington Hotel. This place serves up chocolates and flowers upon arrival while offering pool and sauna access, and its on-site Sapphire Spa offers couples massages that’ll melt away any travel stress.
Traverse City
If you’re looking for a tipsy Valentine’s getaway, Traverse City might be the ideal destination. With more than 50 tasting rooms, you’ll be hopping from one place to another to sample delicious varieties like pinot blanc, pinot grigio, and riesling while taking pictures against rolling vineyards. Some of our favorite wineries include Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Hawthorne Vineyards, and 2 Lads Winery.
After you’ve had your fill of wine, it’s time for some fun at Clinch Park. Unlike typical beach spots, this one offers stunning views of the peninsulas, a snack bar for your munchies, restrooms, bike racks, picnic tables, and even lifeguards in summer for when things get a little too wild. You should also check out Nauti-Cat or Traverse Tall Ship Company for a unique and romantic cruise.
If you plan to buy something for your other half, head over to downtown Traverse City to check out charming mom-and-pop shops, galleries, and coffee bars. When the sun sets, take your better half to Trattoria Stella for dinner.
After dinner, let the romance continue with some stargazing at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. When tired, visit Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn, which features chandeliers, granite wet bars, and (in select rooms) private patios or balconies where you can whisper sweet nothings under the stars.
Holland
Known for its Dutch heritage and picturesque landscape, Holland is one of those places that’ll make you fall in love all over again. If you’re more of a breakfast date couple, deBoer Bakkerij is the spot to savor some decadent Dutch pancakes and pastries.
Once you’ve fueled up on carbs, head to Holland State Park. This place has all the makings of a rom-com moment — golden sand dunes, a famous red lighthouse, and a pier walk perfect for sunset hand-holding. Plus, the pathways are accessible, so everyone can enjoy the stunning views together. Don’t forget the Nelis’ Dutch Village, where you can try on wooden clogs that look suspiciously comfortable and take photos that will 100% make it onto next year’s holiday card.
If your idea of romance includes flowers (as it should), then Veldheer Tulip Gardens is a must. While peak bloom happens in spring, this place has a magical charm that makes you feel like you’re walking through a painting. If you’re the kind of couple who loves a good cultural experience, check out Hope College’s art galleries, dance performances, and musical shows, or catch a play at the Holland Community Theatre.
For the ultimate dreamy stay, check into the Haworth Hotel. This luxurious central option is near the best boutiques, shops, and restaurants—perfect for indulging in some retail therapy or a memorable dinner date. Plus, they’ve got event space for weddings, you know, just in case this little getaway inspires something more permanent!
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Charlevoix
Nestled right on the shores of Lake Michigan, Charlevoix is a small town that has romance written all over it! If your idea of romance includes holding hands while the waves crash dramatically in the background, Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse should be your first destination. Walk out to the bright red lighthouse at sunset, take some photos, and pull each other closer when the wind gets too nippy.
When you’re done soaking in the views, it’s time to explore the historic downtown. With charming boutique shops and art galleries lining the streets, it is the kind of place where you’ll “just pop into one shop” and somehow lose two hours.
If you’re not big on shopping, head over to the Belvedere Plaza, which has some of the best eateries in the area. Grab a table at a lakeside café, sip on something warm, and admire the view (of the water and your date).
Charlevoix is also home to Earl Young Mushroom House — a collection of quirky, curved stone cottages that might just become your sweetheart’s dream home. If you really want to turn up the romance, book a horse-drawn carriage ride through town and let the horse clippity-clops do all the magic-making.
New Buffalo
If you want to trade your same-old date nights with something more spontaneous, New Buffalo delivers big-time. Downtown New Buffalo has different antique shops and charming galleries for those who adore art, history, and all things vintage.
When it comes to romantic landscapes, you can’t beat New Buffalo Beach and Lakefront Park, which feature a long expanse of soft golden sand and picturesque views of Lake Michigan. You can rent a kayak or play a splashy game of tag on the lake. Pro Tip: Always let your partner win.
You can also book a yacht cruise with Oselka Marina that’ll take you to the Lake Michigan shoreline, Warren Dunes State Park, and St. Joseph for lunch. If your partner is an oenophile, head to the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail to sip on exquisite wines and toast to everlasting love.
Later, catch a soulful musical or a laugh-out-loud comedy at The Acorn Center for the Performing Arts. After all that New Buffalo adventure, stay at the Marina Grand Resort. With fireplaces and private balconies, you can snuggle up with your sweetheart and enjoy breathtaking views of the marina.
Ludington
Located near Pere Marquette River, Ludington offers ample date opportunities. If you’re an outdoorsy couple, head over to Ludington State Park for hiking through pristine trails or scaling sand dunes. You can roll out your picnic blanket at Loomis St. Beach or take cheeky selfies at Buttersville Park. Stearns Park, in particular, offers a serene view any time of day, but it’s the sunsets that might steal your heart.
If you’re more of a history buff, make your way to the Historic White Pine Village, which boasts 30 historic exhibit buildings, including the original 1849 Mason County Courthouse, steam locomotives, and a sawmill, so you’ll be able to step back into the 19th century without losing the 21-century convenience.
After all that fresh air and cardio, you’ll want to refuel at PM Steamers with some great food and classic cocktails. If you plan on spending the night, The Historic Lamplighter Bed and Breakfast or Cartier Mansion Bed and Breakfast have that perfect mix of luxury and cozy vibes that’ll have you feeling like royalty.
Book Clock Mobility for Accessible Romantic Adventure
If you need a wheelchair-accessible ride for Valentine’s Day, Clock Mobility is the way to go. Our vans feature lowered floors, convenient ramps, high-quality securement systems, hand controls, and removable front seats for maximum convenience.
We’re conveniently located at four different spots in Michigan and offer flexible rental durations, so you can book our vehicle for a day, week, and even whole month. To book your accessible van rental, fill out this online form or call us at (866) 380-3326 to get a personalized quote.
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