A road trip around Lake Michigan offers a diverse and scenic experience, covering over 1,100 miles through four states: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your Lake Michigan road trip, providing a detailed itinerary, must-visit stops, scenic drives, and practical tips to make the most of your journey.
7-10 Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Chicago, Illinois
- Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as Willis Tower and Navy Pier.
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Enjoy deep-dish pizza and the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
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Day 2: Saugatuck, Michigan
- Drive to Saugatuck, known for its artistic community and beautiful beaches.
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Visit the Saugatuck Dunes State Park and enjoy water sports or hiking.
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Days 2-4: Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan
- Head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a must-visit attraction.
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Hike the dunes, explore the scenic drives, and enjoy camping or lodging in the area.
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Days 5-6: Upper Peninsula, Michigan
- Drive to the Upper Peninsula and visit Escanaba, where you can tour the Sand Point Lighthouse.
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Stop at the Top-of-the-Lake Snowmobile Museum and enjoy Michigan pasties.
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Days 7-8: Mackinac Bridge and St. Ignace, Michigan
- Cross the Mackinac Bridge and explore St. Ignace, with its historic downtown and lighthouses.
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Visit the Straits State Park and enjoy camping or lodging with a view of the bridge.
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Days 9-10: Traverse City and Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan
- Drive to Traverse City, known for its cherry production and festivals.
- Explore the Leelanau Peninsula, with its rolling hills, wineries, and the Grand Traverse Lighthouse.
Must-Visit Stops
- Door County, Wisconsin: Known for its natural beauty, lighthouses, and scenic drives.
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan: A stunning national park with colorful sandstone cliffs and scenic hiking trails.
- Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Michigan: Home to the Tahquamenon River and its picturesque waterfalls.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan: A must-visit attraction with towering sand dunes and scenic drives.
- Mackinac Island, Michigan: A charming island with historic sites, fudge shops, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Scenic Drives and Routes
- Lake Michigan Circle Tour: A designated scenic route that covers 1,100 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, passing through Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
- US-31: A scenic highway that runs along the Lake Michigan shoreline, offering stunning views and access to charming towns and beaches.
- Highway 2: A route that passes through the Upper Peninsula, offering scenic views of the lake and surrounding forests.
Tips and Recommendations
- Plan ahead: Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
- Use Road Trippers: A helpful tool for plotting your route and estimating drive times.
- Take detours: Explore the many scenic byways and side roads that offer stunning views and hidden gems.
- Enjoy local cuisine: Try the famous Michigan pasties, cherry-based products, and local brews along the way.
Cost and Timings
- Drive time: Approximately 17 hours without stops, but plan for several days to a week to fully enjoy the attractions.
- Accommodation costs: Vary depending on the type of lodging and location, but budget around $100-200 per night.
- Food costs: Average around $15-30 per meal, with local specialties and snacks available along the way.
Directory and Hours
- Lake Michigan Circle Tour: Open year-round, but some attractions may have seasonal hours.
- National parks and state parks: Hours vary depending on the park, but generally open from dawn to dusk.
- Local businesses and attractions: Hours vary, but generally open from 9 am to 5 pm.
Rates and Value
- Gas prices: Vary depending on the location and time of year, but budget around $3-4 per gallon.
- Accommodation rates: Vary depending on the type of lodging and location, but budget around $100-200 per night.
- Attraction costs: Vary depending on the attraction, but budget around $10-20 per person.
Phone Numbers
- Lake Michigan Circle Tour: (800) 543-2937
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: (231) 326-4700
- Mackinac Island: (906) 847-3783