Summer is the time of the year everyone looks forward to. Warm weather, less responsibilities (for some people), and a time for adventure. Many people use this time to relax, soak up some rays, and have a good time. Michiganders are very blessed during the summer months, with a beach no more than two hours away, and thousands of fun activities to do around the state. With an almost unlimited amount of choices, it can be hard to plan out the perfect Michigan summer. That is why I've taken the time to comprise a list of every place in Michigan that should be on your summer bucket list.
1. Ludington
Ludington is a small beach town jam-packed with fun activities. From kayaking on Hamlin Lake, camping, or taking an evening stroll to the Big Sable Lighthouse, this is a town that won't disappoint.
2. South Haven 
South Haven is another beach front town that is host to two gorgeous beaches, perfect for viewing a breath taking Lake Michigan sunset. South Haven is also host to Van Buren State Park, and is the final destination of the Kal Haven trail, a 35-mile biking trail.
3. Isle Royale National Park 
Isle Royale National Park is the perfect location to visit for those who are athletic and love adventure. You can backpack and camp in the wilderness, and escape the world of social media and technology for a few days. Isle Royale is host to great fishing spots, and many places to kayak; truly a place you won't want to miss.
4. Mackinac Island 
Mackinac Island is a must for any great summer bucket list. Being one of Michigan's most famous destinations, there is plenty to do, even on such a small island. From Mackinac Island State Park, to Round Island Lighthouse, to Fort Holmes, you're guaranteed a long list of sites to see. And one can't visit the famous island which tasting its even more famous fudge!
5. Grand Haven 
Grand Haven is home to award-wining beaches, sand dunes perfect for climbing, sand castle building contests, and many summer festivals. The Grand Haven Art Festival is a beautiful display of local artist's work. Grand Haven is also the location of the nationally known Coast Guard Festival where thousands come to thank members of the coast guard for their service.
6. 40 Mile Pt. Lighthouse 
Located in Northern Michigan and on the shore of Lake Huron, this scenic lighthouse is a must see view for all summer adventurers.
7. Yellow Dog River Falls
Beautiful waterfalls located in Marquette county of the Upper Peninsula. To reach them you hike a 1/2 mile trail that leads to the top of the falls.
8. Petoskey
Petoskey is one of Michigan's most popular tourist towns. From Odawa casino to a lengthy list of wineries, Petoskey State Park is a great place for you to see miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, and the historic gaslight district is a excellent shopping location with over 100 shops.
9. Traverse City
Traverse City is another one of Michigan's most traveled cities, with many events and sites to attend throughout the year; summer is no exception. When visiting you must go to the famous Front Street that is lined with hundreds of shops and restaurants, no doubt the hub of the activity. Traverse City is another city that lines Lake Michigan, so a trip to the beach is easy to fit in your visit.
10. Sleeping Bear Dunes
Sleeping Bear Dunes are nationally known and allow for endless activities during your visit. You can kayak, canoe, or tube through the crystal clear waters of Lake Michigan, and of course climb the famous dunes that span for miles along the lake shore.
11. Holland
When visiting Holland you need to take a trip to Holland State Park and the Holland Harbor lighthouse, one of Michigan's most unique lighthouses. Windmill island (pictured above) and Lake Macatawa is a must see for all tourists.
12. Silver Lake Sand Dunes
Over 2000 acres of dunes that separates the Lake Michigan shoreline and the beautiful Silver Lake. You can either watch the dune veterans jump and race through the sand, or you can try it yourself with the many rental locations. The famous Test Hill is also a great spot to view the sunset over Lake Michigan.
13. Pointe Aux Barques 
Home to one of Michigan's oldest lighthouses on the shore of Lake Huron. The beautiful lighthouse and gorgeous shoreline is a great destination for summer explorers.
14. Arcadia Bluffs
This is a must stop for all golf lovers. This beautiful golf course is located on the shore of Lake Michigan, and provides and excellent view while playing a relaxing game of golf.
15. Frankenmuth
Home to two nationally famous and independently owned restaurants, Baldwin Inn and Zehnder's that serve world famous chicken dinners. Frankenmuth has many indoor water parks, zip-line adventures. It is also and incredibly romantic city with chocolate and wine cruises and horse drawn carriages through the town.
16. North Manitou Island
This island, a part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore, which is perfect for camping and exploring. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse or take a wagon tour around the island.
17. Kitch-iti-kipi
Located just west of Manistee and is one of Michigan's largest natural springs. Visitors can ride the self-operated raft the floats across the span of the spring, providing a gorgeous view.
18. Bay City
A city on the coast of Lake Huron with an almost endless amount of activities, from multiple museums and shops to state parks and beaches. It is also home to one of Michigan's most spectacular fireworks displays, so it is a great city to spend the 4th of July.
19. Rockport State Reservation
This is a park perfect for lovers of stargazing. During the day visitors can hike and explore the park and choose the perfect spot to view the stars.
20. Sunrise Coast
One of the best locations in Michigan for viewing the sunrise, and provides a water colored look across Lake Huron. At Au Gres (the location of sunrise coast), people can also fish and canoe along the beautiful waters.
21. Manistee
Take a walk on the Manistee river or have a fun night in the Little River Casino. You should also take the short hike up to arcadia lookout for a beautiful view over the lake.
22. Cheboygan
Home to Headlands International Dark Sky Park, another great view of the stars. Cheboygan is also close to the Mackinaw bridge, and you can take a ferry ride to the Island for a day. McGulpin Point Lighthouse and historic site or Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse are two must see landmarks when visiting Cheboygan.
23. Muskegon
Home of Michigan's famous theme park, Michigan's Adventure. One can also visit Muskegon state park or spend the day at Pere Marquette Beach. Muskegon is also host of the USS Silversides Submarine Museum, which offers a tour of a retired US submarine.
25. Blue Water Area
A group of cities including Lexington, Port Sanilac, and Marysville, includes many river walks and mile after mile of Lake Huron beaches. These towns are host to many restaurants and local shops that would make for the perfect summer getaway.
26. Charlevoix
A town located in northern Michigan; offering a lovely view of the crystal clear waters of Lake Michigan. It is also home to Fisherman's Island State Park, a place to walk a beautiful and secluded beach, and even offers lake shore camp grounds. After a long day of exploring, Charlevoix has a large number of restaurants to grab a delicious bite to eat.
27. Keweenaw Peninsula
Northernmost part of Michigan's upper peninsula that projects into Lake Superior. Its two national parks and many trails are perfect for hiking and biking.
28. St. Ignance
Located at the southern tip of the Upper Peninsula. You can take fishing charters, boat cruises on Lake Huron, and even tour Tahquamenon falls on a river boat tour. Overall, St. Ignace is a beach-side town perfect for your summer bucket list.
29. Porcupine Mountain Falls
Visit hundreds of waterfalls in Northern Michigan. You will enjoy a lovely and scenic hike through the state park to view the gorgeous and famous waterfalls pictured above.
While I couldn't come close to writing about every beautiful place in Michigan, this list will surely provide for a fun-filled summer of adventure and exploration!
