Michigan Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a thrilling journey with the Michigan Road Trip, spanning the length of the state of Michigan. Starting in the bustling city of Detroit, you'll make your way along the 3037 km route, passing through the towns of Flint, Rogers City, Whitefish Point, Copper Harbor, and Escanaba. Along the way, you'll be in awe of the stunning natural beauty of the state, from its rolling hills to its crystal clear lakes. There are plenty of attractions to explore, from the historic lighthouses of Whitefish Point to the charming small towns of Escanaba and Copper Harbor.
The best time of the year to drive this route is in the summer, when the weather is warm and the roads are in good condition. However, be aware that there are some curvy roads along the route, so it's important to drive with caution. It's also important to note that the route crosses a border, so make sure to have your passport and other necessary documents ready.
This road trip can be completed in 14 days and is suitable for any driver. Plus, it can be managed on a moderate budget, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to embark on the Michigan Road Trip and explore all that this beautiful state has to offer.
14
number of days
3,037 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Detroit
Distance 3,037 km
Driving time 37.5 h
Pace: fast
911.1 kWh
Airports
DTW
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Detroit, the largest city in Michigan, is a great starting point for a road trip named "Michigan Road Trip". The city is packed with attractions and activities that make it an ideal destination for travelers. From the Detroit Institute of Arts, one of the largest art museums in the United States, to the Detroit Riverfront, a popular spot for outdoor recreation, there is something for everyone.
For those planning to fly, the closest international airport is Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW). From the airport, visitors can easily rent a car to explore the city and the surrounding area.
The city is also home to several popular attractions, including the Motown Historical Museum, where visitors can explore the history and legacy of Motown Records, and the Detroit Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Other popular attractions include the Detroit Science Center, the Detroit Historical Museum, and the Detroit Riverwalk.
No matter what your interests may be, Detroit has something for everyone. From the unique attractions to the vibrant culture and history, Detroit is an ideal starting point for any "Michigan Road Trip".
1
Detroit
- Flint
Distance 131 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
39.4 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip starting in Detroit, United States and ending in Flint! This 82-mile drive will take you less than two hours, and you'll get to explore the most interesting places Pontiac has to offer.
In Detroit, you can visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Motown Museum, and the Detroit Historical Museum.
In Pontiac, you can take a tour of the historic Cranbrook House and Gardens, or explore the Automotive Hall of Fame.
Finally, in Flint, you can visit the Flint Institute of Arts, the Sloan Museum, and the Longway Planetarium.
All these places are within easy reach of each other, so you can easily make the most of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Flint - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Flint
- Tawas City
Distance 178 km
Driving time 2.0 h
Pace: fast
53.5 kWh
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Are you ready for your next road trip adventure? Let's start with a 111mi drive from Flint to Tawas City. You'll be able to reach your destination in less than two hours.
The first stop is Flint, where you can visit the Flint Institute of Arts, the Flint Children's Museum, and the Flint Farmers' Market.
As you continue your journey to Tawas City, you'll find the Tawas Point State Park, the Huron National Forest, and the Iosco County Historical Museum.
At the end of your journey, you'll arrive in Tawas City. Here you can visit the Tawas Bay Beach Park, the Iosco County Historical Museum, and the Tawas Point Lighthouse.
These are only a few of the attractions that you can visit during this stage of your tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Tawas City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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3
Tawas City
- Rogers City
Distance 226 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
67.9 kWh
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If you are looking for an exciting road trip, then the journey from Tawas City to Rogers City is the perfect choice. This 141mi route takes fewer than 3 hours to complete and is part of a larger tour.
Starting in Tawas City, you will drive along River Road, which offers breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding countryside. You can take a break at the Tawas Point State Park, where you can enjoy a picnic, take a leisurely stroll, or take a dip in the lake.
The next stop is Oscoda, a small town with a charming downtown area. Here you can visit the Museum of Maritime History, which offers an insight into the history of the area.
Continuing along River Road, you will arrive in Alpena. Here, you can visit the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, which offers exhibits about the area’s maritime history.
The final stop is Rogers City, where you can explore the historic downtown area. You can also visit the Presque Isle County Historical Museum, which is home to a variety of artifacts and exhibits.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please visit the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Rogers City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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4
Rogers City
- Sault Ste. Marie
Distance 231 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: fast
69.3 kWh
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Welcome to the Rogers City - Sault Ste. Marie road trip! This 144 mi journey will take you less than 3 hours and you will even cross the state border. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so fasten your seatbelts and get ready for an amazing ride!
In Rogers City, you can explore the Presque Isle County Historical Museum and the historic Rogers City Theater. If you are looking for outdoor activities, you can take a stroll around the Rogers City Marina Park.
In Sault Ste. Marie, you can visit the Soo Locks Boat Tours, the Museum Ship Valley Camp, and the Tower of History. If you are looking for some outdoor activities, you can take a walk around the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Sault Ste. Marie - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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5
Sault Ste. Marie
- Whitefish Point
Distance 112 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: fast
33.5 kWh
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Are you ready for a beautiful road trip from Sault Ste. Marie, Canada to Whitefish Point? This 112 km journey will take you no more than two hours to complete. As you drive along the winding roads, you will cross the state border, so don’t forget to bring your passport!
The stage ends at Whitefish Point, the site of a historic lighthouse and shipwreck museum. The museum is a great place to learn about the shipwrecks in the area, and the lighthouse offers stunning views of Lake Superior. Along the way, you can also stop at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum to explore the maritime history of the region.
Make sure to keep an eye out for the scenic views on the road. There are plenty of opportunities to take in the beauty of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, pack your bags and hit the road for an unforgettable journey!
Whitefish Point - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Whitefish Point
- Marquette
Distance 302 km
Driving time 4.5 h
Pace: fast
90.6 kWh
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Welcome road-trippers! The stage of your journey that starts in Whitefish Point and ends in Marquette is a thrilling ride of 188 miles and fewer than 5 hours of driving time. The road is very winding in some sections, so make sure to drive with caution. This stage is part of a larger tour, so make sure to check the "Itinerary" section of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
In Whitefish Point, you can visit the Whitefish Point Lighthouse, the Shipwreck Museum, and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society. In Marquette, you can explore the Marquette Harbor Lighthouse, the Marquette Maritime Museum, and the Presque Isle Park. There are plenty of activities to do in both places, so make sure to explore them all!
So what are you waiting for? Get ready to enjoy the adventure of this road trip stage from Whitefish Point to Marquette! Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" section for more information about the attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a safe drive!
Marquette - United States - North America - Road Trip - flickr.com
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7
Marquette
- Copper Harbor
Distance 264 km
Driving time 3.6 h
Pace: fast
79.1 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Marquette to Copper Harbor! This 164mi journey will take you less than 4 hours to complete and is one of the most scenic roads in the Midwest. As you drive, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Lake Superior shoreline, the Keweenaw Peninsula, and the Isle Royale National Park.
Start your journey in Marquette, a vibrant city with plenty of outdoor activities and attractions. Visit the Upper Peninsula Children's Museum for a fun day out with the kids or take a stroll along the boardwalk for stunning views of Lake Superior.
Heading south, your next stop is Copper Harbor. A picturesque village nestled in the Keweenaw Peninsula, Copper Harbor is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the nature trails, go kayaking, or take a boat tour of the harbor. Be sure to visit the Keweenaw Mountain Lodge for a unique experience in the heart of the wilderness.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage of the road trip. Bon voyage!
Copper Harbor - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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8
Copper Harbor
- Ontonagon
Distance 169 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
50.7 kWh
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Are you ready for a breathtaking road trip? Start your journey in Copper Harbor and take the Copper Trail to Ontonagon. This 105-mile drive will take no more than 3 hours and is full of scenic views. Along the way, you will be able to see the beauty of the Lake Superior shoreline, the majestic Porcupine Mountains, and the winding roads of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Don't forget to take a few stops to enjoy the breathtaking views and take some pictures. You can also explore the quaint towns of Eagle Harbor and Eagle River. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can take a hike in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. When you reach Ontonagon, you can explore the historic downtown and visit the Ontonagon Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Ontonagon - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Ontonagon
- Escanaba
Distance 354 km
Driving time 4.3 h
Pace: fast
106.3 kWh
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Welcome to the Ontonagon-Escanaba road trip stage! This 220mi journey will take you less than 5 hours of driving, and you'll be able to explore some of the most interesting places in the region.
In Ontonagon, you can visit the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and its beautiful views, the Lake of the Clouds, and the scenic overlooks. You can also go to the Ontonagon Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in the Upper Peninsula.
Continuing your journey, you will arrive in Escanaba. Here, you can visit the Delta County Historical Museum, the Sand Point Lighthouse, and the Escanaba River State Forest.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Escanaba - United States - North America - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
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10
Escanaba
- Mackinaw City
Distance 237 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
71.2 kWh
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Take a road trip from Escanaba to Mackinaw City, a 147 mile journey that will take you less than 3 hours. Start your journey in Escanaba and explore the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Visit the Delta County Historical Museum to learn about the area’s history and the Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum for a fun-filled day. Then, head to the Ludington Park to enjoy the outdoors and the views of Little Bay De Noc. As you make your way to Mackinaw City, take a stop in St Ignace to visit the Museum of Ojibwa Culture and the Mackinac Bridge Museum. Finally, you will arrive at Mackinaw City, where you can explore the Mackinaw City Historical Museum and the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. Don’t forget to visit the Colonial Michilimackinac State Park and the Mackinac Island State Park. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Mackinaw City - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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11
Mackinaw City
- Traverse City
Distance 190 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
57.0 kWh
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Welcome to an incredible road trip from Mackinaw City to Traverse City! This 118-mile journey takes roughly two hours and will show you some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region.
Start your journey in Mackinaw City and follow Cherry Orchard Drive. Along the way, you will pass through picturesque farms, rolling hills, and charming towns. Stop at the historic Mackinaw City for a glimpse of its old-world charm, or take a break at the quaint town of Charlevoix.
Continue your journey on Cherry Orchard Drive, and you will soon reach Traverse City. This charming city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Grand Traverse Bay, the Traverse City State Park, and the Leelanau Peninsula.
As you explore the area, keep an eye out for the scenic views, including the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the Grand Traverse Bay. Be sure to also check out the numerous wineries, breweries, and restaurants in the area.
When you're done exploring, take a break at one of the many campsites in the area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Traverse City - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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12
Traverse City
- Ludington
Distance 172 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
51.6 kWh
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip starting in Traverse City, United States and ending in Ludington? This 107 mile drive will take you less than 3 hours to complete and you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most stunning views in the region. As you drive along, keep an eye out for the winding roads that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes.
You’ll start your journey in Traverse City, a city known for its vibrant downtown, beautiful beaches, and the world-famous cherry production. Visit the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum to learn about the area’s maritime history, or take a stroll along the Boardman Riverwalk for some breathtaking views.
As you make your way to Ludington, you’ll pass through some of the most picturesque towns in Michigan. Stop in Manistee to explore the Victorian Port City, or visit Pentwater for some of the best beaches in the area. In Ludington, you’ll find the historic Ludington State Park, which features miles of hiking trails, scenic beaches, and a historic lighthouse.
For more information about attractions, accommodations, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road for an unforgettable road trip!
Ludington - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.wallpaperflare.com
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13
Ludington
- Kalamazoo
Distance 234 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: fast
70.2 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Ludington to Kalamazoo! This 145mi journey will take you fewer than 3 hours, and you will be able to take in the sights and sounds of some of the most interesting places in Michigan.
Start your journey in Ludington, a beautiful city situated on the shores of Lake Michigan. Here you can visit the historic S.S. Badger carferry, the Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and the Ludington State Park.
Continue your trip to Muskegon, a city known for its stunning beaches and lively music scene. Make sure to visit the Heritage Landing and the Muskegon Museum of Art, and don’t forget to check out the downtown area for some great shopping.
Next, drive to Holland, a charming city situated on the shores of Lake Macatawa. Here you can explore the Dutch Village and the Holland Museum, and take a stroll through the charming downtown area.
Finally, make your way to Kalamazoo, a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Here you can visit the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, the Kalamazoo Nature Center, and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Kalamazoo - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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14
Kalamazoo
- Detroit
Distance 236 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
70.8 kWh
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Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Kalamazoo to Detroit? It's a 147-mile journey that can be done in less than 3 hours, so get your car ready and hit the road!
You'll be able to explore some of the most interesting places in both cities, starting with Kalamazoo. Visit the Kalamazoo Valley Museum to learn more about the city's history, or take a walk in the Celery Flats Historical Area, a great spot for outdoor activities.
When you get to Detroit, you'll find plenty of attractions. Don't miss the Detroit Institute of Arts, one of the city's most iconic museums. And of course, you can't go to Detroit without visiting the Motown Museum, the place where some of the biggest names in music got their start.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage of the road trip. Enjoy your journey!
Detroit
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The final destination of the Michigan Road Trip is Detroit. With a rich history and culture, Detroit is a great place to end your journey.
Spend a day at the Detroit Institute of Arts, a renowned museum with over 100 galleries and a world-class collection of art. The Detroit Historical Museum is also a must-see for visitors to the city, offering an insight into the history of Detroit and its people.
The Detroit Riverwalk is an ideal spot for a walk or bike ride, with plenty of restaurants, shops and public art installations to explore. And if you’re looking for a shopping experience, head to the city’s Greektown district for unique boutiques and eateries.
For sports fans, catch a Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park, or take in a Red Wings game at Little Caesars Arena.
Travelers arriving by air can fly into Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), the closest international airport to the city.
Detroit is a great place to end the Michigan Road Trip, offering something for everyone. Explore the city's history and attractions, and experience a vibrant culture that's uniquely Detroit.
Michigan Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Detroit
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End:
Detroit
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Distance:
3,037 km
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Stay:
14 days
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Getting there:
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the quintessential Michigan Road Trip, a comprehensive 3037-kilometer (1,887 miles) odyssey that weaves through the Great Lakes State. Starting from the bustling city of Detroit, the journey reveals the multifaceted beauty of Michigan, traversing through historic Flint, picturesque Rogers City, the serene Whitefish Point, the rugged Copper Harbor, and the inviting Escanaba. This Road Trip is a mosaic of urban charm, industrial might, coastal vistas, and untouched wilderness.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Detroit: The Motor City, alive with a rich musical heritage of Motown, a renaissance in art and culture, and an indelible mark on the American automotive industry. Don't miss the Detroit Institute of Arts and the historic Motown Museum.
- Flint: Once a powerhouse of the auto industry, Flint’s cultural center and museums offer insights into Michigan’s transformation over the decades.
- Rogers City: Nestled along the shores of Lake Huron, this hidden gem boasts the tranquil Herman Vogler Conservation Area and the historic 40 Mile Point Lighthouse.
- Whitefish Point: A gateway to the past, home to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, where tales of maritime history come alive, and a crucial habitat for migrating birds at the Whitefish Point Bird Observatory.
- Copper Harbor: A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts in the Keweenaw Peninsula, where trails for mountain biking and hiking meet the historic Fort Wilkins State Park.
- Escanaba: Known for its lovely Ludington Park and Sand Point Lighthouse, Escanaba is the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in the local charm and waterfront views.
Best Time to Go:
Summer is the pinnacle season for exploring Michigan’s diverse landscapes, with July and August offering the most temperate climate for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The fall months also offer a spectacular display of autumn foliage, particularly in the Upper Peninsula.
Potential Risks:
While journeying through this scenic route, be mindful of wildlife crossing in rural areas, and seasonal weather changes that can affect Road conditions. Additionally, some attractions may require advance reservations, and it’s advisable to check the operational hours for seasonal sites.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Allocate at least 14 days to fully immerse in the rich tapestry of Michigan's culture, history, and natural wonders.
- Michigan is renowned for its over 11,000 inland lakes and forests covering nearly 50% of the state, offering a plethora of recreational activities.
- The route is dotted with iconic Michigan lighthouses, over 129 in total, which have guided sailors through the Great Lakes for generations.
- The state's automotive legacy can be celebrated along the MotorCities National Heritage Area, which includes several sites along your route.
A good choice for:
The Michigan Road Trip is an invitation to discover the soul of the Midwest. From the urban allure of Detroit to the tranquil shores of Lake Superior, every turn brings a new discovery, making it an essential journey for any Road Trip enthusiast seeking to capture the essence of Michigan.
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