Whether you’re planning for an upcoming holiday or creating your own three-day weekend by taking some time off work, there’s nothing better than plotting an itinerary in and around the Motor City. Detroit is home to all sorts of great attractions, from natural treasures to museums to small towns that are overflowing with charm. When you’re ready to plan the adventure of your dreams, consider these seven long weekend destinations around Detroit.

1. Lexington

Are you looking for the perfect place to absorb a bit of peace and quiet along the shoreline? Lexington has you covered. Located just 90 minutes by car from Detroit, this quaint town features Lake Huron frontage that can easily be appreciated via its harbor and boardwalk. Of course, the town also boasts an array of great eateries, a charming downtown area, and plenty of space to watch boats make their way out to the water. You’ll want to check out our previous article for all the details about Lexington.

2. Watkins Lake State Park

If spending time among nature is your idea of a perfect long weekend, Watkins Lake State Park certainly belongs on the itinerary. This stunning spot within the Irish Hills region of Michigan is located only an hour and a half from the Motor City, but you’ll feel like you’ve entered a whole new world when you arrive. It’s here that you’ll find a five-mile hiking trail that winds through greenery, flora and fauna, Watkins Lake itself, and so much more. Nature enthusiasts will fall in love with this underrated place, which is detailed in our past piece.

3. Hideaway Cove Log Cabins and Resort

Looking to extend your long weekend into an overnight getaway instead of creating a collection of day trips? Hideaway Cove is calling your name. Tucked away in the town of Tipton, this relaxing oasis is accessible via car in about one hour and fifteen minutes. The resort features rusticly inspired yet comfortable cabins along the shores of Evans Lake – complete with a private beach, opportunities for kayaking, and so much more. If you want to learn more, read our feature article about Hideaway Cove.

4. Stepping Stone Falls

Naturally occurring waterfalls are spectacular, but manmade treasures can be just as enchanting – and this is certainly true in the case of Stepping Stone Falls, which sits just over an hour away from Detroit in Flint. When you arrive, you’ll find an assortment of towering stone structures that mark the meeting point of the Flint River and Mott Lake. Rushing water tumbles over these structures to create one of the most commanding yet beautiful manmade waterfalls imaginable. Our previous piece has all the details.

5. Westland Historic Village Park

Ready to step back in time without going to the trouble of conjuring a bonafide time machine? Look no further than Westland Historic Village Park, a family-oriented attraction that’s located only 30 minutes from the heart of the Motor City. This educational spot consists of a collection of historic buildings and offers visitors a glimpse into what local life was like in the mid-19th century. From a vintage farmhouse to an in-park museum that’s loaded with information, there’s so much to see. Read our feature article for more.

6. Greenwood Acres Family Campground

You might not associate Metro Detroit with fantastic campsites, but you’ll think again once you experience the beauty and atmosphere of Greenwood Acres Family Campground. This Jackson attraction, which is only one hour and fifteen minutes from Detroit, impresses countless visitors each year with its sheer size – an incredible 300 acres. During the warmer months, there are more than 1,000 campsites to select from, with accommodations for tents, RVs, and everything in between. Throw in amenities like lake access, a relaxing pool, and an arcade and you’ve got the recipe for a top-notch adventure. Our previous piece will fill you in!

7. Olde World Canterbury Village

Sometimes a bit of retail therapy is in order, especially when it comes to making the most of time off. For local shopaholics, there’s plenty of fun to be found during a long weekend in Metro Detroit – but Olde World Canterbury Village offers traditional shopping with a twist. This collection of shops, which is located about 40 minutes from the Motor City, features historic structures and an eclectic assortment of businesses to peruse. From clothing to jewelry to Michigan-made products, there’s something for everyone. To learn more about Olde World Canterbury Village, read our prior article.

So, now you’ve got a great starting point when it comes to long weekend destinations in Metro Detroit. Did we include any of your favorite spots or leave something spectacular off our list? We’re always eager to hear from readers, so share your thoughts with us by leaving a Facebook comment. Or, if you’d like to recommend a must-experience day trip in Detroit and its neighboring communities, complete our nomination form.

If you're looking for even more excitement, be sure to read about these gorgeous natural hidden gems around Detroit.