Frankenmuth is 'Michigan's Little Bavaria' sporting Bavarian architecture and German style food. It is a great city to visit, with great hotels, waterparks, shopping and delicious food! You can spend anywhere from a couple hours to a whole day here!
This is where Emma has worked as server and boat captain for the past few summers! They offer boat tours down the Cass River, in Frankenmuth, with wine and chocolate tasting on board! All the chocolates are handmade, and the wines are made from Michigan grapes.
*Grape juice and beer is available on the boat upon request.
You really can't miss the world's largest Christmas store! They have every type of ornament and Christmas decoration you can think of. The store itself covers 2.2 acres of ground.
Lake Huron should be a good temperature in July! Stop at the beach on your way to Grindstone General Store for a swim or to at least dip your toes in the lake. This beach doesn't require any day passes or permits!
This is one of Emma's favorite historical sites in Michigan. The Village takes you back in time as you see the houses of famous people like Miriam Webster, the Wright Brothers, and Thomas Edison, and so many more. Carriage, train and Model-T rides are also a great way to see the village. Henry Ford took great care in moving these building and preserving them for the future.
This activity will take an entire day! Bring your own food or get it in the village.
Located right next to Greenfield Village, The Henry Ford museum is another great stop. Here you can see things like Rosa Parks' bus, the chair Abraham Lincoln was sitting in at his assassination, presidential cars, trains, cars, Oscar Meyer Weiner Mobile, and more!
This is a full day adventure!
This art museum houses one of the largest collections of art in the United States, housing artists such as Van Gogh, Matisse, and so many more.
Located in the original headquarters and music recording studio for Motown Records, the Museum is home to an extensive array of authentic company artifacts, photographs, costumes and other valued memorabilia.
Mackinaw Island is located in Lake Huron between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan. There are no motorized vehicles on the Island, just horses and bikes. Rent a bike, or bring your own to ride the 8-mile loop around the island and explore its many hidden gems.
If you visit on a Wednesday, you can tour the Govenor's Summer Residence.
Pro-tip: Make sure you look carefully at the ferry schedule if you want the chance to go under the Mackinaw Bridge!
The Soo Locks allow cargo ships to go between Lake Superior and Lake Huron which are at two different water levels. Take a boat tour of the Locks, learn how they work, and see Canada!
Tahquamenon Falls is the largest waterfall in Michigan sending approximately 50,000 gallons of water per second over the edge. Make sure you visit both the Upper and Lower Falls, located in two different areas.
Pro-tip: When you visit the Lower Falls bring dry clothes and secure waterproof shoes because you are allowed to wade into the water and enjoy the cool water.
See this National Lakeshore by boat tour! You won't regret it (even if it is raining)! The sandstone cliffs are beautiful with their unique colors and shapes carved by the water.
We recommend taking a tour with this company: Pictured Rocks Cruises
Pro-tip: While you are in the area stop at the visitor's center and pick up a map of the area and go in search of waterfalls. Some are located in the National Park, while others aren't.
Michigan's Largest freshwater spring! Make a quick and free pit stop to look into the perfectly clear water. A floating raft on a pully system will take you across the spring.