Roadtrip Detroit to Milwaukee early April

Question

I'm looking for some tips/advice/suggestions for the following:

I have roughly 10 free days in the first two weeks of April for a trip, with a hire car, from Detroit to Milwaukee. I can't change the dates or time of the year so please bear that in mind if/when you respond (I know it's early in the season and too early for a destination like Mackinaw Island for instance). My initial idea is to travel north from Detroit (after a short stop in Ann Arbor) and get to Milwaukee via the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. I prefer not to stay at a different place every night so ideally I'm looking for three different places to stay and explore the wider area from there. As long as I end up near Milwaukee on day 10.

I'm looking for a combination of easy/moderate hikes/walks, some cultural sights, scenic routes, some down time to read a good book, some quirky sights, bookshops, maybe some micro breweries. A mix between touristy and not too touristy if you get what I mean.

First time visitor to that part of Michigan from the UK here though, mainly after some advice what to avoid at that time of the year due to the season.

Many thanks for any tips/suggestions! Much appreciated.

Answer

Early April in Michigan can still be quite chilly, especially in the Upper Peninsula, and there may be lingering snow or muddy trails in some areas. For a 10-day road trip from Detroit to Milwaukee, with a preference for staying in only three locations, you can plan to explore regions rather than moving every night, which will give you time to enjoy walks, cultural sites, and some downtime.

Suggested Base #1: Ann Arbor / Detroit Area (Days 1-2)

Start your trip by exploring southeastern Michigan. Ann Arbor is a vibrant college town with a strong book culture, cafes, and a walkable downtown. Detroit offers a mix of cultural sights, quirky neighborhoods, and some historic attractions.

Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts for a world-class art collection.
Check out the Motown Museum for a musical cultural experience.
Walk along the Detroit Riverwalk for scenic urban views.
Explore Ann Arbor’s independent bookshops like Nicola’s Books and Literati Bookstore.
Sample local microbreweries: Founders Brewing in Detroit or Jolly Pumpkin in Ann Arbor.

Suggested Base #2: Northern Michigan / Traverse City Area (Days 3-6)

Head north to Traverse City, which provides access to scenic drives, moderate hikes, lakeside relaxation, and some smaller towns to explore. Early April will be quiet, so you can enjoy areas without the summer crowds.

Drive along the Old Mission Peninsula and visit some wineries and small towns.
Take moderate walks along Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, though some trails may be muddy or closed.
Visit Pleasanton and nearby state parks for short hikes and lake views.
Explore downtown Traverse City for quirky shops, bookstores, and cafes.
Check out local breweries such as Right Brain Brewery and Traverse City Brewing Co.
Downtime idea: find a lakeside spot or a cozy cafe to read and relax.

Suggested Base #3: Door County / Milwaukee Area (Days 7-10)

For the last leg, you can either stay in Door County, Wisconsin, for its charming towns, scenic views, and small cultural stops, or head directly toward Milwaukee for easier access to the city and attractions.

In Door County, enjoy short coastal hikes, quirky local shops, and small art galleries in towns like Sturgeon Bay or Fish Creek.
Sample local breweries and cideries like Door County Brewing Co.
Drive the scenic county roads to appreciate early spring landscapes along Lake Michigan.
In Milwaukee, visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, explore the Historic Third Ward, and check out local bookstores and microbreweries.
Downtime idea: relax along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, or find a cozy café in downtown Milwaukee.

Seasonal Considerations:

Some trails in the Upper Peninsula or northern Michigan may be muddy or partially closed due to snowmelt.
Ferries to islands or summer attractions will likely not be operational.
Road conditions can vary—check local DOT updates for any snow or ice advisories.
Early April is generally quieter, so you will enjoy fewer crowds but limited water-based activities.

This itinerary balances scenic drives, cultural experiences, and downtime, while minimizing hotel changes. You’ll get to experience both the natural beauty of northern Michigan and the quirky charm of small towns, finishing with a taste of Wisconsin’s culture and Milwaukee’s city vibe.

Roadtrip Detroit to Milwaukee early April

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