Lake Michigan Circle itinerary

Question

We are planning a Lake Michigan circle driving tour in late May this year. We are interested in seeing what is unique to this area including hiking, biking, eating, Main Street shopping, wineries, etc.. After a drive from the St. Louis area, we plan on:

Evening 1 - Union Pier

Evening 2 & 3 - Traverse City

Evening 4 - Mackinaw City

Evening 5 - Mackinac Island

Evening 6 &7- Munising

Evening 8 - Green Bay

We can add a night or 2 for other stops along this route. Or change cities if others are recommended.

Thank you for any suggestions!

Answer

Your Lake Michigan Circle tour sounds fantastic, and late May is a great time to explore this beautiful region! Below are some ideas and suggestions to enhance your trip, especially for hiking, biking, shopping, dining, and wineries. You can adjust your itinerary based on personal preferences and how much time you’d like to spend in each place.

Evening 1 – Union Pier

Union Pier is a lovely area to kick off your tour. Nestled in southwestern Michigan, this small town offers access to some beautiful beaches and is known for its vineyards. A few highlights to check out:

Wineries: Visit Round Barn Winery for some great local wines and a relaxing atmosphere. You can also check out Fenn Valley Vineyards nearby.
Beach Time: Spend some time on New Buffalo Beach or Cherry Beach, both of which offer lovely views of Lake Michigan.
Dining: Try The Stray Dog Bar & Grill for casual dining with views of the water.

Evening 2 & 3 – Traverse City

Traverse City is a vibrant town, known for its unique culture and stunning natural surroundings. Here are some suggestions:

Wineries: Traverse City is renowned for its wineries, especially along the Old Mission Peninsula. Stop by Chateau Chantal and Left Foot Charley.
Shopping: Stroll along Front Street for charming shops and boutiques. Explore local artisan stores, bookstores, and art galleries.
Hiking: Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for some scenic hikes with stunning views of Lake Michigan. The Dune Climb is a must-do.
Dining: Head to The Cook's House for a farm-to-table experience, or Traverse City Whiskey Co. for a local spirit tasting.

Evening 4 – Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City is known for its history and proximity to Mackinac Island. Spend some time exploring the historical sites and enjoy the charming small-town atmosphere.

Shopping: Explore the shops and boutiques in Mackinaw City, especially the Downtown Shopping District.
Historic Sites: Check out Fort Mackinac or the Mackinaw Bridge for a historical look at the area.
Dining: Enjoy a meal at The Dixie Saloon or try The Village Inn for delicious local seafood.

Evening 5 – Mackinac Island

Take the ferry to Mackinac Island for an unforgettable experience. The island is famous for its natural beauty, historic sites, and quaint atmosphere.

Transportation: Remember, cars are not allowed on Mackinac Island. You’ll get around by bike, horse-drawn carriage, or foot.
Activities: Rent bikes to explore the island’s Arch Rock, or visit Fort Mackinac for a glimpse into the island’s history.
Dining: Try Mary’s Bistro for a charming lunch or dinner, and don’t forget to try the famous Mackinac Island Fudge!

Evening 6 & 7 – Munising

Munising, located in the Upper Peninsula, offers a true wilderness experience, especially with its access to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Hiking: Visit the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore for incredible hikes along Lake Michigan, including scenic waterfall and cliffside trails.
Water Activities: Consider taking a boat tour to see Pictured Rocks from the water, or try kayaking along the coastline.
Dining: Try The Dogpatch Restaurant for casual dining with local flair.

Evening 8 – Green Bay

Green Bay is a fun stop before finishing your road trip. While known for its football team, there’s plenty to see here beyond the stadium.

Hiking: Explore Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary for easy walking trails and wildlife sightings.
Shopping: Visit Downtown Green Bay for charming shops, local art galleries, and unique boutiques.
Dining: Check out The Creamery Downtown for cheese and wine, or Republic Chophouse for a fine dining experience.

Optional Additions:

Charlevoix: If you have time, consider adding a stop in Charlevoix, which offers charming shopping, dining, and stunning views.
St. Ignace: Located just north of Mackinaw City, this area offers great access to the Upper Peninsula and beautiful scenic drives.

This itinerary offers a mix of natural beauty, local culture, and unique activities to experience the Wild West feel. You can adjust the trip depending on your preferences for outdoor activities, scenic routes, or small-town exploration. Enjoy your trip around Lake Michigan!

Lake Michigan Circle itinerary

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