True to Michigan’s state motto, “If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you,” these six locations make staying close to home (or a vacation to the Great Lake State) spectacular.

1. Majestic Mack

The most iconic of Michigan’s landmarks, the Mackinac Bridge, spans almost five miles from end to end. While the bridge itself incites wonder and awe, the surrounding area provides equally fascinating attractions.

This year-round vacation spot offers historic museums, trolley tours, and shopping experiences along with hiking, swimming and snowmobiling opportunities for the outdoorsmen in the family.

Whether time allows for only a short stay or for an extended trip, make sure to take the sunset trolley tour over the majestic bridge while nibbling on some famous Mackinac fudge.

2. Stunning Soo

Instead of having to go on an expensive cruise to Panama, the Soo Canal on the border of the Upper Peninsula and Canada showcases a legendary lock system all its own. With a history of almost 160 years, the Soo Locks give sailors and tradesmen safe passage between Lake Superior and Lake Huron and now offer tours.

When done traversing the 21 foot drop through the locks, check out other local attractions such as:

• Point Iroquois Lighthouse
• Tahquamenon Falls
• Historic Sites and Museums
• Seasonal Festivals and Events

3. Awesome Adventure

Seeking an adrenaline adventure? Michigan’s Adventure theme park offers several coasters and rides to satisfy the youngest to the most experienced rider’s craving.

Starting at 30 dollars a ticket, access to rides big and small, characters from The Peanuts, and the newly added Funland Farm makes for a memorable day in the park at any age.

Want to cool off? All tickets include admission to the connected WildWater Adventure portion of the park. So remember to pack the swimsuits and sunscreen!

4. Beautiful Bavaria

Michigan’s little Bavaria, Frankenmuth, not only operates as a back-to-school shopping mecca (the outlet deals are unbeatable) but functions as an homage to the old country as well.

Styled after small Bavarian villages, this little town offers authentic dining experiences, horse-drawn carriage rides, and various festivals year round. Frankenmuth also houses Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland: 27 acres of Christmas decorations and fun!

If a more contemporary vacation sounds good to the family, Frankenmuth additionally features Adventure Trails, Waterparks, and Family Fun Centers open year round.

5. Transcendent Traverse

Whether Cherry Festival sounds delicious in the spring, or skiing on Boyne Mountain when the snow comes, a Traverse City stay-cation meets any family’s needs.

With spas, indoor waterparks, and outdoor adventures, everyone can relax, explore, and so much more in Michigan’s “pinky”, Traverse City.

6. Dazzling Dunes

Lake Michigan’s bewitchingly blue waters make for a scenic backdrop to the Silver Lake Sand Dunes.

Supplying more than a romantic getaway for two, the Silver Lake State Park invites families to experience the sand dunes in dune buggies, visit Little Sable Point Lighthouse, hike the trails and enjoy the expansive beach fronts.