As a native of the Great Lakes State, I may be a little biased in saying that Michigan is the absolute BEST place to spend the summer, but there truly are so many incredible places to discover. From Detroit––ever-growing and booming with nightlife––to Holland Beach State Park along lake Michigan––perfect for a quiet stroll or a busy day at the beach, Michigan is such a dynamic place and a state that definitely has a spot for everyone! Check out 4 hidden gems you should visit this summer in The Mitten.
1. Detroit
The Motor City is making its comeback! For years, Detroit struggled to stay up on its feet, and was the butt of many daunting jokes from outsiders. Yet, downtown Detroit is more alive than ever. With a never-ending list of restaurants and things to do, one could spend countless days and nights down there and never become bored. The DIA (Detroit Institute of Arts), the Canfield Street strip (where the Shinola store, Third Man Records, and City Bird gifts are located), various restaurants in Corktown (Ottava Via being a personal favorite), tea at The Whitney, shows at The Fillmore, the Detroit Opera House, and The Fox, the Greektown and Motor City casinos, Tigers games at Comerica Park, a burger at Shake Shack, and rides on the brand new Q-Line transportation system along Woodward Avenue are just a few of the highlights. Detroit is definitely an experience like no other, and as it grows attractive to both new, young residents as well as tourists, it's becoming a thriving city with a diversified range of people, attractions, and culture.
2. Holland
Known for its annual tulip festival, walkable downtown, being the home of Hope College, and for its Dutch-based culture, Holland is also a town with some gems still hidden from tourists. Holland Beach State Park, countless discoverable marinas and breweries, and many historical sites and museums fill Holland and its outskirts. Located along the southern part of Lake Michigan, the downtown is only a short drive from cities such as Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, and still only about 3 hours from the metro-Detroit area, but it's a great place to escape when you want a dose of that "up north feel" without the strains of long travel. It's rated by Livabilityas one of the top-10 best places for families to live and the 2nd happiest place in America by Good Morning America, undoubtedly because of the friendliness expressed by many of the city's residents. There is a sense of small-town hospitality and charm, but with many of the already mentioned amenities and options for a full recreational and social life — a combination desired not just by residents, but by Michigan tourists.
3. Elk Rapids
Smushed between many big-name Michigan destinations such as Traverse City and Torch Lake, Elk Rapids is sometimes forgotten by tourists. In turn, it has become a hidden gem with a classic "up north" walkable town full of shops, restaurants, breweries, ice cream stores, and coffee houses. Also, because of the Elk River connection to the chain of Lake Skegemog, Torch Lake, and Elk Lake to Lake Michigan, Elk Rapids boasts a large marina and a series of sandy beaches and clear waters along Lake Michigan––perfect for the entire family (pictured below). Another major attraction comes alive just days after the Traverse City Cherry Festival: the annual 4th of July parade. This parade is full of floats, local celebrities, and a celebration of Michigan culture. Elk Rapids, overall, is a great place to escape the typical Michigan tourist rush but is still a place where you can experience the classical lake-town feel.
4. Bellaire
Just east of Elk Rapids lies Bellaire, Michigan, a hidden gem that sits quietly as tourists rush to Torch Lake. With a beautiful downtown and attractive main street (Bridge Street and Lane), Bellaire brings visitors Short's Brewing Company — famous for its food and home brews, Moka Espresso Cafe, Ruthie's Chicken and Dairy Twist (where you can find deep-fried Oreo's!), and a series of cute gift shops featuring Michigan-themed decor and clothing. Just south of the downtown is Lake Bellaire, which is smaller than Torch lake, but just as beautiful. You'll also find the Schuss Mountain Resort with endless rounds of golf (and skiing if you want to come back in the winter), and horseback riding along trails as guided by Sandy's Stables. Though the town doesn't sit along Lake Michigan, Bellaire is close to many other Michigan attractions and itself has plenty to offer to tourists. Next time, instead of driving through it and straight to Traverse City or Torch Lake, stop for a taste of Bellaire!
Michigan is a state like no other because of how much it has to offer to residents and tourists alike, but there are still so many places to discover. From cities to beaches to classic small town shopping, there is surely something for everyone in this summer!
