Spring Break for so many is right around the corner, and we get it, this time of year can be tough! (Get me to the Florida beaches, right?) But hear us out! There are some AMAZING things you can do that are bit closer to home and will surely not disappoint. Here are 6 ideas for you to consider:
Mohawk, MI
Mount Bohemia in Mohawk is up there in the UP (like way up there) but boy is it worth it! The scenery is incredible and so is the skiing, however, if skiing isn’t your thing (FYI- it does offer the state’s largest vertical drop) spend your time in the Nordic Spa. The spa includes a eucalyptus steam cabin, a Finnish sauna, an outdoor hot tub, and an outdoor hot pool. Take in the cold pool and the waterfall between your dips in the hot water for a true Nordic spa experience. Just thinking about it makes us happier! And please, while you’re up enjoying the Keweenaw Peninsula, visit the adorable lakeside village of Eagle Harbor and Copper Harbor (both 20- 25 minutes from Mohawk). Better yet, take M26 from Eagle Habor up to Copper Harbor. You will thank us!
Detroit, MI
Head to the Detroit riverfront and check out the next best thing to actually being outdoors. The Outdoor Adventure Center gives you a taste of Michigan’s great outdoors in the heart of the city. You’ll get to experience exciting outdoor adventures with hands-on activities, exhibits, simulators and more. And then let the city of Detroit be your oyster! We recommend taking in all that the Detroit riverfront offers and also heading to Belle Isle Park. The 987-acre island park features the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Belle Isle Aquarium, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, giant slide, athletic fields, picnic areas, Belle Isle Nature Zoo, the James Scott Memorial Fountain, and more attractions popular with all ages and interests. The park includes three lakes, 150 acres of wooded area and spectacular views of the Detroit and Windsor skyline.
Munising, MI
The UP offers over 200 incredible waterfalls so there is plenty of opportunity for you to create your own adventure. If you aren’t quite ready for that, we recommend heading up to Munising. While Munising is a gateway community to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the adorable city is picturesque and is surrounded by some amazing waterfalls. Some of the falls on the outskirts of town require longer hikes to get to or are difficult to reach in the winter, but there are actually several falls within the city that only entail a 10 minute or under walk. It’s magical!
Glen Arbor, MI
Oh, Glen Arbor, how we love you! Check in to The Homestead, located along the Sleeping Bear Dunes lakeshore and provides some of the most beautiful sights Michigan offers. The area is surrounded endless hiking and bike trails for all experience levels. The Homestead itself offers skiing, a spa, and plenty to do onsite. There are lodging options to fit just about any need and budget. The added advantage is the location for lots more fun! Explore the adorable fish town of Leland, which is just north or head to Traverse City where the possibilities are endless. Also, Interlochen Center for the Arts is just south of here. The gallery is open to the public and features exhibitions by students, faculty, and staff. Making The Homestead your home base will not disappoint.
Midland, MI
Head to Midland for a variety of fun adventures. Explore the Tridge (a beautifully unique three legged wooden footbridge spanning the confluence of the Tittabawassee and Chippewa Rivers), head to the Chippewa Nature Center, as well as the Midland City Forest for some hiking (or winter activities should there be any snow). And no visit would be complete without a visit to Dow Gardens for everything that is has to offer. Dow Gardens is comprised of an Estate Garden, Exploration Garden, and Whiting Forest, which will take you four stories high to stroll along the nation’s longest canopy walk. There is simply so much beauty to see and things to do in Midland. Additionally, Bay City is only a short drive east making it easy to check out; the Riverwalk Pier and Naval Museum are always fun stops!
Sault Ste. Marie
Sault Ste. Marie is a unique destination. There is something about looking at the soaring international bridge connecting Michigan to Canada with the addition of the large freighters and operation of the Soo Locks that is just mesmerizing. There is a wealth of things to see and do. The Soo Locks and museums are sure to keep you busy and intrigued. And if you are looking for another adventure, take a trip over the bridge to Canada (I mean you’re so close, why not) or take a short drive to Point Iroquois Lighthouse which stands along Lake Superior at the entry to the St. Mary’s River. For a longer day trip, Tahquamenon Falls are a little over an hour away but always worth the trip!
There you have it! Surely there are plenty of other wonderful ideas out there, but we wanted to get you started. Wherever your travels take you, enjoy!!