Summer is the season for adventure and what better destination to explore than Michigan? With its stunning beaches, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant culture, the Wolverine State is the perfect place to escape the heat and have some fun.
Whether you’re looking to hike through the Northwoods, relax on the shores of Lake Michigan, or indulge in some of the best culinary delights in the country, Michigan has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the best summer trips in Michigan.
Must-Do Activities in Michigan This Summer
Michigan is a state that truly comes alive during the summer months, offering visitors and residents alike an endless array of exciting activities and experiences to enjoy. Below are some must-do activities to add to your summer bucket list.
Discover Holland’s Dutch Heritage
When it comes to Dutch heritage in the United States, Michigan is a prime destination. In Holland, you can take an architectural walking tour through the city’s charming downtown area and see thatched roofs on buildings next door to modern high-rises built by Dutch immigrants. This area is dotted with Dutch bakeries, restaurants, and quaint shops selling everything from tulips to wooden shoes.
But that’s just the beginning! No trip to Holland would be complete without a visit to the iconic Windmill Island Garden, where you can explore the grounds or even climb to the top of the windmill for a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding countryside.
If you plan on visiting Michigan in April or May, don’t forget to check out the Tulip Time Festival, which celebrates the arrival of spring with parades, flowers galore, and plenty of traditional Dutch cuisine.
Relax and Enjoy Grand Haven’s Beach Town Vibes
Located in the center of Michigan’s eastern shore, Grand Haven is a beach town that’ll make your heart feel light as a feather and help your worries drift away like clouds on a warm summer day. The city’s long stretch of sandy beach is popular with sunbathers and swimmers. Ambulatory guests seeking water activities can rent paddle boards, kayaks, and windsurfing boards from local businesses. This beach also offers an accessible walkway down to the waterfront, accessible picnic shelters, fishing spots, and playgrounds, and you can even rent a beach wheelchair to get around in the sand.
For those wanting to stick to dry land, there are plenty of other wheelchair-accessible things to do in Grand Haven. You can take a tour of the Grand Haven lighthouse or enjoy a performance at the city’s theater. There are also plenty of places to get your fill of fresh seafood. We’d suggest trying the Snug Harbor or Finn’s Chophouse & Speakeasy for an authentic seafood experience.
Enjoy Thrilling Rides at Michigan Adventure Park
No summer day trip in Michigan is complete without visiting an amusement park. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping way to beat the heat, head to Michigan’s Adventure Park. From the stomach-churning twists and turns of the Corkscrew roller coaster to the refreshing plunge of the Logger’s Run water ride, you’ll find a wide variety of rides that will satisfy thrill seekers of all ages and abilities.
The park also boasts a host of summer-themed attractions that are perfect for cooling off on a hot day. Take a dip in the wave pool, lounge on the lazy river, or splash around in the water park — there’s plenty there for you to enjoy!
And if you’re feeling hungry, there are countless summery treats to satisfy your cravings. You can bite into a juicy burger or a hot dog, cool down with a refreshing ice cream cone or indulge in some frozen lemonade, all while soaking up the sun!
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Go Star Gazing at a Dark Sky Park
As the summer sunsets and the velvety darkness envelops the sky, there’s no better way to enjoy a summer evening in Michigan than by going stargazing.
Michigan boasts several parks designed for viewing the night sky, but the Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City is a stargazing enthusiast’s dream come true. With its expansive, unobstructed views of the night sky and state-of-the-art telescopes, this ADA-compliant park provides visitors with an opportunity to marvel at celestial wonders in all their glory.
Make sure to pack a cozy blanket or two, some refreshing drinks, and some bug spray (a summer essential!) to ward off those pesky mosquitoes. Also, be sure to dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, as temperatures can drop at night.
Tour the Breweries in Grand Rapids
Looking for a way to quench your thirst while soaking up some summer vibes in Michigan? Head to Grand Rapids to enjoy crisp ale, hoppy IPAs, and rich stouts.
With over 40 craft breweries and more popping up every year, Grand Rapids is a beer connoisseur’s paradise. As you hop from brewery to brewery, you’ll have the chance to chat with the friendly staff and learn about the brewing process. You might even get to sample some limited-edition brews that are exclusive to the brewery you’re visiting.
And what’s a brewery tour without some tasty snacks to accompany your beer? Many of the breweries in Grand Rapids offer mouth-watering food options, from classic pub fare to creative culinary concoctions that’ll add a whole new dimension to your beer-tasting experience.
Make sure to bring your sunglasses and dress for the summer heat, as you’ll be spending plenty of time outside basking in the warm sunshine. And don’t forget your camera because there are many picturesque spots around the city that are perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy shots!
See the Famed Mackinac Bridge
For those who are seeking a true Michigan adventure this summer, you can’t miss the chance to see the infamous Mackinac Bridge! This iconic suspension bridge stretches majestically across the Straits of Mackinac, linking Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas, and is a beloved symbol of the state.
As you make your way across the bridge, the shimmering blue waters of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron will spread out before you in all their summertime glory, and you’ll feel the invigorating rush of the fresh breeze on your face.
But the Mackinac Bridge isn’t the only attraction in the area. Just a short ferry ride away lies the idyllic Mackinac Island, which is a popular getaway destination for Michiganders and tourists alike. This charming island is best known for its historic buildings, quaint shops and restaurants, and picturesque beaches.
You can stroll around and explore the area or hire an accessible horse-drawn carriage to take you on a tour of the island. If you prefer a more adventurous and panoramic experience, consider taking a ferry ride operated by the Star Line Company. Not only does this company provide a memorable journey, but they also offer handicap-accessible parking and even extend assistance for boarding and disembarking the vessel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable trip for all their passengers.
It is important to note that cars are not allowed on the island, so wheelchair users will need to rely on their power chairs to traverse the area. Given the limited availability of charging stations, it is advisable to bring extra batteries to ensure the uninterrupted exploration of the island’s exquisite landscapes.
However, if you’d rather not deal with the hassle of managing power supplies and navigating the terrain yourself, consider renting a horse-drawn carriage, an electric scooter, 3-wheeled adult trikes, and chariot bicycles to effortlessly navigate the island’s gently sloping streets and experience breathtaking views from various lookout points.
Embark on an Adventure With Clock Mobility
If you’re looking to embark on one of the best summer day trips in Michigan, Clock Mobility is the perfect choice for your transportation needs. We sell a wide selection of high-quality wheelchair-accessible vehicles, including SUVs and vans, that can accommodate anywhere from five to seven passengers.
For those who plan on taking out-of-state road trips from Michigan in the summer, we also offer rental services so you can explore at your own pace. For more information about our fleet, call us at (866) 630-0632 or visit one of our four locations in Michigan. We look forward to serving you this summer!