Finally!
The beautiful feeling of Michigan spring is finally in our backyards. We missed the green grass, and playing outside, but we definitely will not miss the bitter cold days where walking to class was like a journey through the Arctic Circle.
Summer is quickly approaching and we pale Michiganders are ready to spend some time in the sun! Most people who live in Michigan don't realize the beauty of woodsy nature and places where the whole family can spend a day getting their farmer's tan on. Check out this list of 11 beautiful summer getaways (without going quite so far) in Michigan, where you can kick back and relax, or just have some leisurely fun!
1. Belle Isle Park
This beautiful 982-acre park located alongside the Detroit River makes for a great day of sightseeing, a gorgeous conservatory, a museum, an aquarium, and even includes play structures and picnic areas. Not to mention, there is massive amounts of space for any kind of outdoor sporting activity! If you happen to find yourself in Detroit, make it worth your while by making a day at Belle Isle Park.
2. Stony Creek Metro Park
500-acres of feeling like you're Up North without actually being Up North! Trails to ride your bike or roller blade around for miles, or spend the day on the shore at Baypoint Beach! Wishing you had a boat and don't have a boat? No problem! Paddleboat and kayak rentals are available at this site! Talk about a getaway only without the long, boring car ride.
3. C.J. Barrymore's
It's a cute little mini amusement park practically in your backyard. If the sun is wearing you out, step inside for arcade games, bowling, and even bumper cars that await you! The kids will love it, and for the older kids, they also have a bar. Also, a brand new roller coaster has been added this year!
4. Michigan's Adventure
Been to Cedar Point too many times and don't want to travel out-of-state? Drive out to Muskegon and spend the day at an underrated amusement park that Michigan has to offer. 7 roller coasters, 8 thrill rides, and a water park! Sounds like a plan to me, and the lines won't be as nearly as long as Cedar Point lines!
5. Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Check out the beauty that the Upper Peninsula has to offer and see beautiful waterfalls that you had no idea Michigan could even produce. The Upper Falls are one of the largest falls east of the Mississippi and has a water drop of 50 feet! Imagine the selfies, people. Imagine them!
6. Any place, any beach, anywhere that borders Lake Michigan
If Michiganders know one thing, it's that we have the best darn lakes on the planet. Our Great Lakes, our pride and joy, offer a beautiful view as far as the eye can see. Feel the incredible breeze of lake wind, and miles of sand to lay out in. Whether you're in Grand Haven or Holland, get your tan on.
7. US-23 Drive-In Theater
And we thought Drive-In theaters were dead. Not in Flint, MI. View a film the great, old-fashioned way like our grandparents used to. Sit on your car, lean on your car, gunpoint to people in leather so they know you're cool, and enjoy a viewing outdoors!
8. Red Oaks Water Park
Featuring a giant wave pool, three water slides, a splash park, and a lazy river just a few miles out of town! Red Oaks offers so much for so little cost! It's a great place for kids, and adults who love riding the waves! Gnarly, dude.
9. Detroit Zoo (But more specifically, the Polk Penguin Conservation Center)
The Detroit Zoo just opened up a brand new, gorgeous, penguin palace! See penguins like never before, and see up close just how darn cute they are! Not to mention the other numerous amounts of species of animal in the park. From polar bears to prairie dogs, the Detroit Zoo is fun for everybody!
10. Comerica Park
Who's Your Tiger? Being at the ballpark is probably one of the best ways to really enjoy summer, whether you catch a day game or night game. Embrace America's greatest pastime with our Detroit Tigers! From legendary Miguel Cabrera, who is likely to hit a ball to your seat if you're out in left center field, to Justin Verlander, who continues to make history in the game. Comerica Park is the place to be this summer. When you're here, all that matters for a few hours is baseball.
11. Traverse City/Sleeping Bear Dunes
Enjoy the serenity of Michigan in Traverse City. Whether you're spending time shopping downtown, or adventuring out in the dunes, northwest Michigan is a great destination for relaxing day on the beach or exciting ventures in mountains of sand.
Folks, these are just a few of the beautiful and fun places in Michigan to hang out ,and make memories with family and friends at.
The possibilities are endless in the mitten, no wonder people are smitten.
