I know all too well what it's like to be stuck home for spring break while it seems that literally everyone else is off in the tropics or the city doing big things and getting crazy turnt. However, I also how to make the best of that situation. I have a good relationship with my family, so fortunately we are able to take road trips together and make it a family experience, but if you're one to get annoyed easily with siblings in the back seat of the car or you just shiver at the thought of a road trip with the fam, then grab a friend or ride solo. Here are some of my favorite spots in Michigan to visit over spring break, and the best part is that it isn't tourist season for any of them!
1. Mission Point Lighthouse
Always a gorgeous drive along the shores of Lake Michigan, wineries and their vineyards deck the drive along Old Mission Peninsula on your way to the end of the road where Old Mission Lighthouse stands proud. A historical landmark in Michigan, it is still in working condition and is accepting applications for lighthouse keepers! Although it is not open for indoor tours until May, the land it sits on is picture perfect with a swing set off to the right of the stairs on the beach, perfect for releasing your inner child on a mild Michigan day.
2. Pyramid Point Trailhead
Part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes, this trailhead is a bit of a hike. However, once you reach the top, you'll see that it was worth the effort. I was personally left breathless the first time I broke through the trees to the top of this trail which overlooks Lake Michigan and offers a panoramic view of the lake and the Manitou Islands.
3. Leland
Here you can enjoy little tourist shops as well as great restaurants as part of the historic Fishtown. Boats come and go, offering a small piece of heaven if you enjoy the paradise of peaceful fishing.
4. Driving along M-22
M-22 sounds like just another highway to out-of-staters, but anyone who has driven on it knows it's so much more than that. Practically any section of this beautiful road is a sight to see and worth a day trip. Enjoy plenty of quaint shops, roadside stands, and mom and pop diners along the way.
5. A trip on M-31 from Bear Lake to Traverse City
This stretch of highway is a quiet one, but worth the hour drive. Small local shops line the entire way, proposing plenty of options for dining and souvenirs. Make sure to look out for the strange road names along the way!
6. Downtown Traverse City
Even in the off season, downtown Traverse City is just as alluring as during its National Cherry Festival and Film Festival. Small shops and fine restaurants line Front Street. Musicians often line the sidewalks, performing for donations for tours and education at the Interlochen Arts Academy. For lunch, stop by Grand Traverse Pie Company for a mediterranean quiche and a slice of one of their famous pies. In the afternoon, check out Wilson Antiques, a four floor antique store filled with endless wonders. For dinner, hit up something a bit fancier, like Georgina's for Latin American dining or Red Ginger for sushi.
7. Frankenmuth
If you really want to get a head start on your shopping for Christmas decorations, you can always stop at Bronners, but that isn't all that Frankenmuth has to offer. In the off season, it's easier to take your time looking around in shops rather than wanting to get out of the chaos as soon as possible. Check out the Got Kilt shop, full of authentic tartans and knives or Zehnder's Marketplace and pick up a sweet treat.
8. Manistee
A touristy town that is a fun for a day drive, the beach offers a wonderful view of Lake Michigan and freight ships that line the lake.
9. John Ball Zoo
Unfortunately not open until March 11th, Grand Rapids' John Ball Zoo is a treat for all ages. Who doesn't love to see monkeys and penguins?
10. Drive the Tunnel of Trees
The trip to make it here is a treat in itself, passing through plenty of small towns in Northern Michigan, including the always quaint Petoskey. The Tunnel of Trees is an old Indian Trail along the bluffs of Lake Michigan. Passing by Pond Hill Farm, be sure to stop and check out the homemade preserves and fresh produce. Also passing through the small town of Good Hart, the Tunnel of Trees completely covers your view of the sky, and the road is narrow and often scary at times with how close cars come to each other. Driving slow enhances the ride however, giving you time to take in all the beauty that Northern Michigan has to offer.
