With the Lake Michigan breeze in your hair and the sun shining down, Western Michigan offers the perfect backdrop for a wheelchair-accessible road trip during Spring Break. There, art enthusiasts can explore vibrant museums, adventurous souls can try their luck at bowling alleys and arcades, and nature lovers can visit botanical gardens. And for the thrill-seekers among us, Michigan’s Adventure amusement park guarantees an adrenaline-packed day.
Since these destinations have well-maintained sidewalks, paved walkways, ramps, easily reachable entry points, and accessible facilities, you can easily enjoy them without stressing over accessibility issues.
Exploring Western Michigan: Wheelchair-Accessible Itinerary Ideas
If you’re feeling a bit confused about your Spring Break adventure, this wheelchair-accessible itinerary will take you on an epic journey through Western Michigan.
Grand Rapids and Surrounding Area
As one of the biggest cities in Western Michigan, Grand Rapids offers art, history, nature, and amazingly good food. The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is wheelchair-friendly, complete with paved paths, ramps, and even an accessible tram to take you through its gardens, massive sculptures, and waterfalls. Millennium Park also has over 25 miles of paved trails for hiking or biking.
Nestled along Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids, John Collins Park has accessible ramps, restrooms, and a public boat launch on the lake, so you can get out on the water. If you’re craving some art therapy, check out different collections and exhibits from the Renaissance era and contemporary artists at the Grand Rapids Art Museum.
If you’re traveling with kids, take them to John Ball Zoo to see wallabies, howler monkeys, barn owls, red-footed tortoises, golden mantella, and more.
When hungry, visit the Downtown market that features over 18 food vendors selling everything from gourmet tacos to fresh pastries. Once you’ve had your fill of the city, take a little detour to some smaller towns like Rockford or Lowell for a relaxed afternoon.
Holland and the Lakeshore
Famously known for its rich Dutch heritage, Holland also has sandy beaches, charming windmills, and tulips galore. Its Holland State Park Beach and Tunnel Park Beach boast golden sands, rolling waves, and picturesque views, making them perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and family BBQs. You’ll also get a glimpse of the iconic Big Red Lighthouse standing guard over Lake Michigan. Plus, these beaches are equipped with beach mats for smooth wheelchair access and accessible restrooms.
The Holland Museum is an ADA-compliant museum that offers a delightful peek into the past, showcasing everything from vintage Dutch artifacts to rotating exhibits about local history. You’d also love Windmill Island Gardens, which is home to the only authentic Dutch windmill in the U.S. There’s a street organ, an antique carousel, stately Friesian horses, and a dazzling display of about 150,000 tulips in the spring.
If your visit overlaps with May 2-11, 2025, you’ll be just in time for the Tulip Time Festival, where millions of tulips take over the town in the best way possible.
Muskegon: Adventure and Accessibility
Whether you want to catch a big fish or a big wave, Muskegon will make your Spring Break unforgettable. You can start your adventure at Michigan’s Adventure. While thrill-seekers can take on Shivering Timbers and Thunderhawk, there are plenty of accessible rides for wheelchair users, including roller coasters and splash-tastic water slides.
Muskegon Lake is a dream for anyone who loves being on the water. Several marinas offer accessible boat rentals and charters, making it easy to get out and explore. If fishing is your thing, you’ll find plenty of accessible piers and docks to cast a line for walleye, bass, and perch.
At Pere Marquette Park, you can see the historic USS Silversides Submarine, Muskegon South Breakwater Light, and Muskegon South Pierhead Light — all while soaking up that fresh lakeshore air.
Hart-Montague Trail and Musketawa Trail have smooth and paved rail-to-trail paths that are perfect for biking, rolling, or taking a scenic stroll through Michigan’s countryside. After a morning of exploring, head over to Blue Lake County Park for a delightful picnic.
If you’re staying till the evening, check out Carr-Fles Planetarium for a star-filled adventure, catch a movie at the retro Getty Drive-In Theater, or visit the Kat’s Tomahawk Lanes for bowling or axe throwing.
Traverse City: Wine Country and Scenic Views
When most people think about Traverse City, they only picture cherry pies, cherry wines, and cherry pit spitting contests. While that’s a real thing, Traverse City is so much more than its famous fruit.
For instance, the M-22 scenic highway snakes through the Lake Michigan shoreline, serving up postcard-perfect views of towering dunes, sparkling water, and charming little beach towns that make you want to pull over and never leave. The road boasts several accessible pull-off points where you can soak in the views or grab a snack.
If you plan on visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive offers breathtaking overlooks of Glen Lakes and the majestic dunes without ever leaving your vehicle. For a more interactive experience, park your car at North Bar Lake Overlook and visit the wheelchair-friendly Dune Climb, which features accessible picnic tables, water fountains, and restrooms.
You might feel a bit peckish after all that sightseeing, so why not visit Traverse City’s famous wineries? Some top wheelchair-friendly spots include Black Star Farms, Chateau Chantal, and Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery — all offering stunning views and delicious pours. Many have paved patios and indoor tasting areas that are easy to navigate, so you can swirl and sip without stress.
When you need a break from all the scenic overload, visit Handz On Art. At this fully accessible paint-your-own-pottery studio, you can make a coffee mug, a keepsake plate, or a fun little sculpture that only you will appreciate.
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Kalamazoo: A Hub of Accessibility
Known for its quirky name and incredible attractions, Kalamazoo is the ultimate stop to kick-start your Spring Break on a high note. If you’re into arts, the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts is a fantastic destination to check out contemporary pieces to classic works.
After soaking in the arts, it’s time to embrace nature at the Kalamazoo Nature Center. With 1,100 acres of stunning woods, wetlands, prairies, and 14 trails, you’re in for a treat. While not every trail is wheelchair-friendly, the Arboretum Loop has paved and packed gravel paths to see its Hummingbird-Butterfly Garden, Sculpture Tour, and Nature’s Playground. The center itself is fully accessible, so you can learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts before heading out to soak up the scenery.
If you’ve ever wanted to see a WWII fighter jet up close, the Air Zoo Aerospace & Science Museum is packed with planes, spacecraft, and flight simulators. Just try to resist making airplane sound effects while you explore.
As the afternoon sun starts to mellow out, take a leisurely stroll to Markin Glen Park, which is equipped with accessible picnic spots, a paved walking path, and a scenic lake. When night falls, catch a live show or a classic film under the stunning marquee lights of the Kalamazoo State Theatre.Â
Saugatuck/Douglas: Art, Beaches, and Small-Town Charm
If you’d rather spend spring break soaking in small-town charm instead of fighting for a spot on a crowded beach, then Saugatuck and Douglas should be at the top of your list. In Saugatuck, you can visit Dawn Stafford’s Peachbelt Studio & Gallery, James Brandess’ Studios and Gallery, or the Saugatuck Center for the Arts to discover everything from bold contemporary pieces to delicate glass sculptures.
If history is more your speed, check out the Saugatuck Pump House Museum, where you can catch an exhibit on the area’s maritime past and quirky local stories.
If this is a girls’ getaway, you must schedule a wine-tasting tour at Michigan Wine Co., Fenn Valley Vineyards, and Crane’s Restaurant & Winery — each offering a mix of crisp whites, bold reds, and some dangerously good ciders.
For those craving a little adventure, take a hike (or a roll) at Saugatuck Dunes State Park. With its sandy trails, towering dunes, and miles of Lake Michigan coastline, it’s an ideal spot for soaking in the natural beauty. Some paths are more accessible than others, so check trail conditions before heading out.
What’s a trip to Saugatuck without a little beach time? Oval Beach is known for being one of the most beautiful stretches of Lake Michigan shoreline. The parking lot is close to the beach, and they offer beach wheelchairs to help visitors get right up to the water.
If you need a wardrobe refresh, check out The James Boutique, Endora Bohemian, For The Love Of Shoes, TOTU Boutique, It Is What It Is, and The Vintage Bee Company. Before the sun sets, head to Wicks Park for a free outdoor concert.
Manistee: Victorian Charm and River Adventures
If you want a spring break adventure without meticulous packing and endless planning, Manistee might be the ideal destination. This small town on Lake Michigan blends historic charm with waterfront beauty, offering one-of-a-kind adventures.
Start your day at Goody’s Juice & Java for fresh smoothies and strong coffee. Then, visit Hopkins Park or Douglas Park to reel in monster fish. After a relaxing morning by the water, spend a lazy afternoon at Downtown Manistee browsing unique boutiques, grabbing a coffee from The Outpost, or treating yourself to some homemade fudge from the famous Kilwins.
Once done, go to Fifth Avenue Beach to catch some fresh air and stunning views of North Pier Lighthouse. During the evening, visit the Ramsdell Theater to see a live performance or a dance show, or head to Vogue Theater to watch the latest films. When hunger strikes, grab dinner at Bluefish Kitchen + Bar, where fresh seafood and craft cocktails pair perfectly with waterfront views.
J. Benton Harbor/St. Joseph: Twin Cities with Accessible Charm
As your road trip winds down, make sure to visit J. Benton Harbor/St. Joseph which offers a lineup of springtime events that’ll keep your itinerary packed but not overwhelming.
Silver Beach County Park features accessible boardwalks and plenty of space to get close to the water’s edge. The Krasl Art Center is a small but mighty art museum featuring rotating exhibitions, a beautifully sculpted outdoor plaza, and a wheelchair-accessible interior.
If you time your trip right, you might also catch the Grand Floral Parade, part of the long-running Blossomtime Festival. Expect beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and giant floral displays that’ll make you wonder why your houseplants can’t survive a week.
Before you leave, take a detour to Jean Klock Park in Benton Harbor. It’s another accessible beachfront area, perfect for taking some last-minute photos while soaking in that fresh Michigan air.
Start Your Adventure with Clock Mobility
Whether you need a wheelchair-accessible van rental, a scooter rental for extra mobility, or even hand controls installed in your own vehicle, Clock Mobility has your back. We offer a variety of vans — from rear-entry to side-entry options — so you can find the perfect vehicle for your trip. We also sell and ship our vehicles nationwide, so whether you’re cruising Michigan’s lakeshore or heading somewhere else, we’ll help you get there. For more information about our wheelchair-accessible vehicle inventory and other mobility solutions, call us at (866) 380-3326 or visit one of four locations in Michigan.Â