5 Places in Michigan I Wouldn’t Take My Worst Enemy

What is your favorite thing to do in Michigan? Depending on whether you live here or you’re a visitor, you might answer differently. Let’s face it, locals prefer to skip the popular attractions that are sometimes focused on entertaining tourists. Take, for instance, Mackinac Island. It is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in Michigan, but some residents have complained about the crowds as well as the hefty price tags. Personally, I would recommend Mackinac Island during the off-season. Obviously, it’s hard to resist its undeniable charm, the yummy fudge, the walkable village with adorable boutiques, and the horse-drawn carriage rides.   

You might be wondering about other popular spots in Michigan that locals avoid—and I’m glad you’re curious! There are several that I can think of, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll agree with me. Check out my list of overrated attractions in Michigan where I wouldn’t even take my arch nemesis (unless I had a lot to gain from visiting).  

1. Belle Isle Park on Weekends - Detroit

If you’ve been to Belle Isle Park on a nice weekend or for a special event, you’ll understand why it made my list. You could easily spend a day at this 985‑acre island park on the Detroit River, featuring walking trails, an aquarium and conservatory, lovely gardens, a giant slide, a fishing pier, and more. Sure, it gets crowded on busy days and some attractions aren’t always open, but this Detroit gem is a wonderful spot for family-friendly fun. Honestly, my archrival doesn’t deserve a day here. But yes, I would take them under one condition: They must walk across the MacArthur Bridge to get to the park. 

2. Da Yoopers Tourist Trap/Yooperland - Ishpeming

The name says it all: Da Yoopers Tourist Trap is a popular roadside attraction in Michigan that is true to itself. Here, you’ll find the world’s largest working shotgun (Big Ernie), the largest working chainsaw (Big Gus), and other oddities. I am not mad at this kitschy spot, after all, it tells you exactly what it is (a tourist trap). Plus, how many of you can really say you snapped a pic next to a giant, 22-foot chainsaw? As for my worst enemy, I would absolutely drive them here and head to Lawry’s, a local family-owned restaurant in Ishpeming, to grab a garden medley pasty.

3. Michigan International Speedway - Brooklyn

Are you a hardcore NASCAR fan? Don’t worry, I come in peace. I know you enjoy watching high-speed cars zip around the tracks for hours, but it isn’t for me. Needless to say, I am not rushing to any of the races at Michigan International Speedway. Between the traffic jams, the massive crowds, and the hefty price tag, I don’t mind sitting this one out. Would I take my enemy here? Probably, because I wouldn’t have to listen to them talk. The noise from the souped-up cars and the rowdy fans would drown them out. However, I prefer a low-key afternoon sipping wine at the tasting room at Cherry Creek Cellars and then exploring the charming town of Brooklyn.

4. Dave and Buster's - Utica

If you’ve been to one Dave and Buster’s, you’ve been to them all. Am I right? Combining a sports bar, restaurant, and arcade is a wonderful entertainment concept, especially if you have kids or if you’re a kid at heart. The food is decent, the adult beverages aren’t bad either, but I’ve had issues with the arcade games at D&B, and the prices will add up the longer you’re here. I am sure my enemy has been to D&B, but I honestly would be happy if they wanted to go back. The good news? I’ll be at home in my pajamas with an adult cocktail, having a peaceful evening. 

5. Ford Field on Game Day - Downtown Detroit 

Have you driven downtown on game day? Then you’ll understand how crowded it can be. As much as I love a good football game, I am not built for tackling the thousands of die-hard fans before or after the event. Of course, my arch-rival deserves a chance to experience the Lions kick butt at Ford Field for themselves. In fact, I would pay for their ticket and then watch the game from the comfort of my sofa with a Margherita from Buddy’s Pizza, the iconic Detroit pizza joint, and a cold beer. (Go Lions!)

Do you agree with my list of overrated attractions in Michigan? What did I get wrong? What tourist traps would you add to this list? You can also check out 4 Michigan Spots I Tried to Hate (But Ended Up Loving, and see if you've felt the same about any of the listed attractions.