Distance: 445 miles

Driving Time: 8 hours, 40 minutes (plus a ferry ride to and from the island)

 

Midwest Living published an article “These are the 20 Best Small Towns for a Great Lakes Vacation” in June 2025. Not surprisingly, a dozen of those destinations were located in Michigan. This road trip takes you through them all* for the ultimate road trip this summer or fall.

Stop #1: New Buffalo

A mere 70 miles from downtown Chicago, New Buffalo is a stark contrast to the towering skyscrapers and busy traffic of the Windy City. That’s exactly why people love visiting here. It’s the perfect spot in which to unwind. Put your feet into Lake Michigan at New Buffalo Beach, a sandy oasis 800 feet long. There is a kayak and paddleboard rental available through Third Coast Paddling if you’re interested but you are welcome to use your own. The quietest days to go are Mondays, Tuesday, and Wednesdays and there is typically a lull in beach traffic around dinnertime (picnic anyone?). There is a snack bar, Kona Ice, that serves summer-time snacks, beverages, and snow cones. The beach is steps from the quaint downtown area, which has a mix of diners, bakeries, breweries, and gift shops. Antique shop nearby on the historic Red Arrow Highway.

  • Must-do summer activity… If you’re visiting over a weekend, don’t miss Skip’s New Buffalo European Farmers Market. In addition to local produce and food products such as salsas and jellies, some vendors feature flowers, jewelry, art, and more.
  • Must-do fall activity… Galien River County Park really puts on a show in the autumn. The wetlands offer a unique hiking experience. Take the 1.4-mile trail loop for a traditional view, but the park’s beauty is really captured via the 300-foot canopy walk that leads to a 60-foot-high overlook tower. There’s also a 600-foot boardwalk and a fishing platform along the river for an up-close view of the habitat and its wildlife.
  • Nearby MARVAC campground: Riverfront Park Campground, Niles

Stop #2:  St. Joseph

The word “romantic” comes to mind when thinking of St. Joseph. This beach town, located just a half-hour north from New Buffalo, has retained its historic character and coastal charm, making it a popular location for weddings and romantic getaways. The Victorian-era downtown is inviting and nostalgic, full of fun places to eat, unique shopping, and local art, all within a relaxed atmosphere. Of course, it’s impossible to miss the Silver Beach Carousel (it brings back the child in all of us). Enjoy a free outdoor concert in July and August at the John E.N. Howard Bandshell, which overlooks the St. Joseph River.

  • Must-do summer activity… Go fishing at either the north pier or the south pier, and visit the historic lights – including climbing the inner light – located on each pier.
  • Must-do fall activity… Visit Lookout Park, which offers an unparalleled view of the lake and the vibrant autumn foliage. Enhance the experience by visiting at sunset.

Stop #3: South Haven

Drive another 31 minutes to reach the Michigan town of South Haven. There’s North Beach and South Beach, separated by the Black River Channel. The larger beach is at North Beach, but downtown and more diversions are located on the south side of the channel. Rent bikes – and trailers if you have young kids – to take a ride on the Kal Haven Trail or on the trail leading to the state park, both good options. If you visit during a Wednesday or a Saturday, stop at the farmer’s market.

  • Must-do summer activity… Climb Van Buren Dune for a majestic view and a feeling of accomplishment, after some solid exercise.
  • Must-do fall activity… Visit Dutch Farm Market and Orchard, opens seven days a week, for fresh Michigan apples – and fresh homemade baked goods and pies. There are free horse-drawn wagon rides, too.
  • Nearby MARVAC campground: South Haven Sunny Brook RV Resort, South Haven

Stop #4: Saugatuck

If you love art, Saugatuck is the ideal place to visit. There are numerous studios, public art installations, and galleries. Anyone who appreciates art will find something that appeals to their sensibility. There are Gallery Strolls that take place during the summer and fall months as well as several outdoor art fairs. Saugatuck is also home to Oval Beach, which consistently ranks as one of the best beaches in Michigan, so you can take in Nature’s art after an unhurried day walking around town.

  • Must-do summer activity… For $3 per person, cash, take the Saugatuck Chain Ferry across the river and back.
  • Must-do fall activity… Visit the nearest cidery to town, Virtue Cider in Fennville, which uses traditional European methods to create the freshest, tastiest hard ciders.

 

Stop #5: Holland

This Michigan town is very proud of its Dutch heritage. It permeates through the town’s culture and appearance. Holland’s most famous festival, Tulip Time, takes place every May. In addition to festivities, Dutch dancing, and a midway, the stars of the show are undoubtedly the 5 million brightly colored tulips. Any time of the year, visit Windmill Island Gardens, the Holland Museum, and Nelis’ Dutch Village for enchanting – and informative – Dutch experiences. If you love the outdoors, Holland is ripe with opportunity. Visit Tunnel Park, stop in at the Outdoor Discovery Center, or take in the DeGraaf Nature Center before walking an easy three-quarter mile trail through the preserve.

  • Must-do summer activity… The popular, free Summer Concert Series takes place every Friday evening from mid-June to mid-August at 6:30 pm. Bring along camping chairs and a picnic basket (although there is usually one food truck on site as well).
  • Must-do fall activity… This is the ideal time to embark on the Mt. Pisgah dune climb, found on the east end of Holland State Park. A boardwalk and steps take you 157 feet above for a spectacular view of Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa, as well as the famed Big Red lighthouse.
  • Nearby MARVAC member: Made by Mary DuPree, Holland

 

Stop #6: Grand Haven

Known as “Coast Guard City USA” celebrates and honors our nation’s heroes every August with a dedicated festival, which is full of parades, fireworks, car shows, carnival rides, and more. The Grand Haven Kite Festival is a weekend event in May that should not be missed. The colorful displays add a touch of magic and whimsy. The downtown area is full of little shops and eateries, full of coastal Michigan charm. Top off the day by taking in a show from the Grand Haven Musical Fountain on Chinook Pier at dusk from the boardwalk.

  • Must-do summer activity… Rosy Mound Natural Area has scenic dunes and good hiking opportunities. Finish off with a dip in Lake Michigan. *Note: Dogs are not allowed this park, and you’ll need to pick up a motor vehicle permit at Kirk Park or online.
  • Must-do fall activity… Drive the Historic River Road for what is considered “the ultimate color tour” in this area, and visit Bethke Farms Pumpkin Patch.

 

Stop #7: Traverse City

Traverse City in the summertime is bustling with activity – and people. Although the downtown area is pleasant to walk, try to visit in the mid-morning hours of weekdays for less of a crowd. The Old Mission Peninsula is full of wineries, hiking trails, and gorgeous vistas of the bays. As can be expected, there are several beaches to choose from on both bays. One of the most remote is at the tip of Old Mission Peninsula, along with the lighthouse and a sandy beach. If you enjoy museums or would like to get out of the heat (or it’s raining), visit the Dennos Museum, which is on the campus of the community college. Across the street is the Civic Center, which has a one-mile paved track, baseball fields, and a playground for the kids.

  • Must-do summer activity… Visit Woodland Sweets on US 31 near Acme for some delicious Moomers ice cream (voted the Best in America) and to view the exquisite, nature-inspired décor and crafted masterpieces.
  • Must-do fall activity… For the best pumpkin donuts, visit Gallagher’s Farm Market on M-72. There are animals to view, a small hay maze for the kids, and of course, plenty of pumpkins and apples to purchase.
  • Nearby MARVAC campgrounds: Holiday Park Campground, Traverse City; Traverse Bay RV Resort, Traverse City

Boardwalk around Lake Charlevoix in Charlevoix

Stop #8: Charlevoix

This small Michigan town was named one of the 15 best lake towns in America earlier in 2025. With a population under 3000, Charlevoix has retained its northern Michigan character. Watch the drawbridge, especially when the Beaver Island ferry departs for its two-hour crossing to the island. Some of the best hiking trails can be found at the Mt. McSauba Recreation Area and the Charles Ransom Nature Preserve. An usual sight is the 28 mushroom houses, designed by Earl Young, a Charlevoix native. They look like gnome homes or hobbit houses, like out of a fairy tale.

  • Must-do summer activity… Rock hounds should visit Fisherman’s Island State Park to find the iconic Petoskey and Charlevoix stones. They make perfect souvenirs!
  • Must-do fall activity… See the fall colors from another angle and rent a raft or kayak to paddle the Jordan River. October is the best month for colors.

Stop #9: Petoskey

The picturesque downtown area, with its tall lamps, is known as the historic Gaslight District and has been a shopping destination for over a century. One stop to make is to the original Kilwin’s, which opened in 1947, for a sweet treat. It’s easy to walk to the beach and spend some time listening to the waves at the Petoskey Breakwall within Bayfront Park (take the time to find a Petoskey stone of your own!). You can go on a self-guided tour of the historic Bay View Association, a Victorian community on the National Historic Register. If you want to take in a free movie, bring a blanket to a Movie in the Park at Dark in Pennsylvania Park.

Stop #10: Mackinac Island

Our next destination requires a ferry ride to reach. Ferries depart regularly from Mackinaw City and you can purchase tickets either online or at the dock. You can take your time looking around Mackinaw City, especially the park down by the water that has an ideal view of the Mackinac Bridge. The ferry ride takes less than 30 minutes, and when you disembark you’ll find yourself in another world. The downtown area is full of tourist-trap shops, but that’s part of the fun. You’ll also find plenty of other stores with merchandise, such as the Pink Pony. You can’t avoid the tantalizing smell of fudge either, so make sure you pick up a slice or two to eat in Marquette Park situated beneath the fort. The fort offers a unique history lesson as well as unparalleled views of the Great Lakes. If you visit in June, the lilac bushes will be all in bloom. Go for a hike, a carriage tour, or reserve a horse of your own to go exploring further.

  • Must-do summer activity… Rent a bike or bring your own (for an additional fee on the ferry) and ride around the perimeter of the island. It’s relatively straight and there are stops you can make along the way of interesting natural attractions.
  • Must-do fall activity… This is a wonderful time to visit as most of the crowds and cruise ships have departed for the season. Simply visiting this time of the year offers a more relaxed vibe and a sense of serenity that is hard to find in the busier summer months. Simply go.
  • Nearby MARVAC campgrounds: Tee Pee Campground; Mackinaw Mill Creek Camping

Moonrise over Alpena

Stop #11: Alpena

The final stop on this Midwest Living driving tour is Alpena, located on Thunder Bay, an inlet of Lake Huron. The downtown is easily walkable and features lots of shops and eateries unique to the area. One of the best things to do is visit the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, which houses an incredible interactive museum as well as a lot of history and current expeditions focused on marine research and shipwrecks. There is a glass bottom boat tour that leaves three times a day during the summer months. For easy walks and sunbathing, you can always go visit Bay View Park or Island Park. There’s a splash pad at Mich-e-ke-wis Park on State Avenue.

  • Must-do summer activity… Visit Old Presque Isle Lighthouse, one of the oldest surviving lighthouses of the Great Lakes.
  • Must-do fall activity… Five miles south of Alpena is the Norway Ridge Pathway, which has 10 miles of groomed terrain including ridges of tall red pines. It’s a beautiful walk during a crisp fall day.
  • Nearby MARVAC campground: Jack’s Landing Resort

 

Note: Munising in the Upper Peninsula was also included in Midwest Living article; however, for this driving tour, we elected to stay solely in the Lower Peninsula. Munising is definitely worth a visit, especially if you love waterfall hunting!