1. Traverse City

Some of the best parts of summer in this beautiful city are the National Cherry Festival (July 1-8) and the Traverse City Film Festival (July 25-30). The rest of the time, it has a lively downtown district full of shops and restaurants to explore.

2. The Sleeping Bear Dunes

About 40 minutes west of Traverse City is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. There is a scenic driving tour with the history of the area, a dune climb, and finally the dunes on Lake Michigan themselves. The dunes are breathtaking- they tower over the lake and are especially beautiful at sunset.

3. Mission Point Lighthouse

Half an hour north of Traverse City lies the Mission Point Lighthouse on the tip of Old Mission Peninsula. This lighthouse was completed in 1870 and remained in use until 1933. You can even climb to the top of the tower for some beautiful views of Grand Traverse Bay.

4. Mackinac Island

This island is home to a Revolutionary War-era fort, a state park, a Grand Hotel, and a historic downtown area. No cars are allowed on the island, so make sure to take a carriage ride or rent a bike, and remember to pick up some delicious Mackinac Island fudge!

5. Pictured Rocks

In the Upper Peninsula, along blue-green waters of Lake Superior, lies the vast Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The natural sandstone cliffs, nearby waterfalls, and a lighthouse make this location absolutely beautiful. You can take a ferry tour along the rock formations, or explore them for yourself on kayaks or on the various nature trails.