12 night road trip itinerary; suggestions are welcome!

Question

We are going on a 12 night road trip in early September. This is what we have so far:

Fly into Grand Rapids; drive to explore Holland (to visit) and either stay 1 night in Ludington or Manistee (recommendations for which area and what hotel; we will probably arrive around 6 pm to the hotel so won't be there long?)

Next day get up early and explore Sleeping Bear and then stay 1 night in Traverse City (arriving late)

Then 1 night in Petoskey to explore the town

We do plan on driving the scenic routes as recommended by those on TA

4 nights in the Upper Penninsula (staying in Munising as our base with friends)

2 nights Mackinac Island 9not yet planned-so expensive that I am still looking into lodging options)

1 night Frankenmuth

2 nights Port Huron (with friends)

Fly home from Detroit

We are set on the dates since 2 parts of the trips we are visiting with friends. We are open to suggestions. Thanks!

Answer

Your 12-night road trip itinerary sounds like a wonderful journey through some of Michigan's most scenic spots! Here are a few suggestions to enhance your trip and provide some guidance on your stops:

Grand Rapids to Holland: Since you’ll be arriving in the evening, I recommend staying at a cozy, convenient hotel for a restful night. Holland has a few great options for a short stay:

The Hampton Inn Holland: Conveniently located near the lake and downtown, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with good amenities, including free breakfast.
The Beach House at Lake Michigan: If you prefer something more unique, this charming beachfront property in Holland is ideal for a relaxed vibe and close to Lake Michigan.

Ludington vs Manistee: Both towns have their charm, but since you’ll be arriving late, Manistee might be a bit more convenient. It offers some good dining options and has a lovely small-town feel. Consider:

Manistee Hotel: A historic hotel that’s close to the beach and local attractions, it’s a great spot to rest before heading to Sleeping Bear the next day.

Sleeping Bear Dunes: Definitely make sure to stop at the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for amazing views of the dunes and Lake Michigan. If you have time, try a hike to the top of the dunes for a breathtaking view.

Traverse City: Since you'll be arriving late, check out the Hotel Indigo Traverse City for a comfortable, modern stay. Traverse City offers a vibrant downtown area with plenty of dining options for dinner and breakfast. Don’t miss exploring the Cherry Festival history here if you have time!

Petoskey: A charming town to visit with its historic downtown, Victorian architecture, and beautiful waterfront. Some great hotel options include:

Stafford's Perry Hotel: A historic hotel with a cozy vibe and easy access to downtown shopping and dining.
Hampton Inn & Suites Petoskey: Convenient location for a quick stop, with modern amenities and comfort.

Upper Peninsula (Munising Base): Four nights in Munising gives you plenty of time to explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the stunning waterfalls, and the nearby Shipwreck Tours. You’ll want to try:

The Munising Motel: A local favorite for a comfortable and affordable stay with easy access to the park and nearby attractions.

Mackinac Island: Mackinac Island can indeed be expensive, but it’s worth the splurge for its unique charm. Here are some suggestions for lodging:

Hotel Iroquois: A lovely, upscale option on the island with scenic views of the water. It’s within walking distance of the ferry and the main attractions.
Mission Point Resort: A slightly more affordable choice with great amenities and beautiful surroundings.

Frankenmuth: Known as Michigan’s "Little Bavaria," Frankenmuth is a fun stop! For dinner, try one of the famous Bavarian restaurants such as Zehnder’s or the Bavarian Inn. Stay at:

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Frankenmuth: A convenient, modern hotel close to the town’s attractions.

Port Huron: A relaxed stop with a scenic view of Lake Huron. For a more charming stay, consider:

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Port Huron: A comfortable option right by the water, with views of the Blue Water Bridge.

Additional Tips: Since you'll be driving scenic routes, be sure to take your time enjoying the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline, especially in the northern Michigan areas like Sleeping Bear Dunes and around Petoskey. When traveling to Munising, don't miss the scenic drive along M-28!

Your itinerary already covers some wonderful Michigan destinations, and with these lodging suggestions and tips, you should be set for a fantastic road trip experience!

12 night road trip itinerary; suggestions are welcome!

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