Springtime is full of promise, hope, excitement, and ample natural beauty – especially here in the Great Lakes State. While you undoubtedly have a list of favorite spots to visit when temperatures rise, there’s always room to discover something new. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled a list of eleven must-visit spring destinations in Michigan, and you’ll want to add them all to your seasonal bucket list. Happy exploring!

1. A short but sweet scenic drive along Lake Michigan

You don’t have to carve out hours to appreciate a scenic drive. This spring, hop in the car and check out a 6.7-mile stretch of road that connects Duck Lake State Park to Muskegon State Park, both of which offer frontage along Lake Michigan. Known simply as Scenic Drive, this roadway offers lovely views of both woodland beauty and waterfront splendor – plus, you can spend time at two beaches when you check out the two aforementioned state parks. Our previous article highlights this short and sweet scenic drive along Lake Michigan.

2. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore by kayak

If you find yourself in the Upper Peninsula, chances are good that you’ll venture all the way north to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. After all, this Munising treasure is a genuine natural wonder, featuring everything from colorful, rocky cliffs to towering waterfalls that splash into the cool waters of Lake Superior. One unique way to explore Pictured Rocks is via a kayak tour from Paddling Michigan, which offers outings for visitors of various skill levels and ages. Read our piece about this amazing Michigan kayak tour for details.

3. The Mackinac House

Mackinac Island is undoubtedly beautiful in the spring, as this car-free paradise thaws and comes to life with tourists, vibrant blooms, greenery, and loads of hustle and bustle throughout its downtown area. If you choose to head here this spring, keep the Mackinac House in mind as a lodging option. This gorgeous resort features a boutique atmosphere, impeccably designed rooms, and easy access to all of Mackinac’s top attractions. Read our focused article about this charming Mackinac Island hotel to learn more.

4. Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge

You might not know that Michigan houses the only internationally managed wildlife refuge in North America, but you’ll be enamored as soon as you check it out for yourself. Nature enthusiasts will be utterly blown away by the expansiveness of this 6,200-acre space along the Detroit River, which is jointly managed by the U.S. and Canada. Hiking, birdwatching, boating – the list of activities continues. For all the details, read our previous piece about this incredible international wildlife refuge in Michigan.

5. The massive American Horse sculpture in Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids is home to Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, a one-of-a-kind space that boasts everything from a butterfly garden to outdoor gardens and sculptures that will keep your imagination inspired. One iconic piece here is the American Horse, a towering bronze sculpture that stands 24 feet high and boasts an amazing history. All the details can be found by reading our previous piece about the American Horse in Michigan.

6. TreeRunner Adventure Park West Bloomfield

Are you itching to spend time high above the ground? One gorgeous adventure park in Michigan has you covered, offering opportunities to tackle aerial obstacle courses, zip lines, and everything in between. Whether you’re enjoying a fun outing with the family or stepping outside your comfort zone with a group of friends, you’ll be filled with adrenaline in no time at all. Learn more by reading our past article about this unique treetop adventure park in Michigan.

7. The Cove in Leland

There’s no shortage of great seafood (or should we call it lakefood?) throughout Michigan. Our proximity to the Great Lakes provides loads of fresh catches throughout the state, but one restaurant in Leland’s charming Fishtown community serves what might just be the best clam chowder you’ve ever tried. Dine at The Cove when you’re seeking pretty views, great service, and truly top-notch food. We provide more information about this awesome chowder restaurant in Michigan in a previous piece.

8. Sky Adventures in Oxford

You might have gazed up at hot air balloons making their way through the sky, but have you ever ridden in one yourself? You can do just that when you book an excursion with Sky Adventures in Michigan. Operating from the town of Oxford, this group provides dreamy adventures via hot air balloon for guests ages five years and older. The views you’ll find during your ride will stick with you for a lifetime, so check out all the details in our piece about hot air balloon rides in Michigan.

9. Montrose Historical and Telephone Pioneer Museum

Did you know that Michigan is home to a museum dedicated to the history of telephones? This spring, take the family on a quirky outing to the Montrose Historical and Telephone Pioneer Museum, which houses phones dating all the way back to the early days of the device. You’ll have the chance to snap photos of vintage phones, check out unique artifacts, and learn with a breadth of knowledge about the history of the telephone. Read our previous piece about Michigan's telephone museum for further information.

10. Beachfront hikes (various locations)

Are you ready to stretch your legs and appreciate the warmer weather? If so, there’s no better way to explore than by enjoying one of the best shoreline hikes in Michigan. Our state is simply overflowing with gorgeous places to unwind and meander along the lakeshore, whether you’re in Bay City or Marquette. Luckily for you, we’ve compiled a list of the best beach hikes in Michigan, so pick your favorite and get adventurous!

11. Hoffman Haus Treehouse

Sure, ordinary hotels have their perks, but have you ever wondered what it might be like to spend the night in a bonafide treehouse? You’ll be swept back to childhood when you book a stay at the Hoffman Haus in Thompsonville, an updated treehouse that allows guests to sleep among the treetops while appreciating plenty of modern amenities. With room for up to four overnight guests, the treehouse is sure to serve as the backdrop for loads of wonderful memories. For rates and amenity information, read more about this unique treehouse rental in Michigan.

So, there you have it: our collection of must-see spring destinations in Michigan. Are you feeling adventurous yet? We know we’ve only scratched the surface when it comes to things to do in Michigan during spring, so drop us a line in the Facebook comments to share your thoughts. Or, if you’d like to make an official recommendation, take a few moments to complete our nomination form.

Still looking for unique things to do? Read about this wine and waterfalls road trip through Michigan.