Day Trips from Detroit, Michigan

1. Ann Arbor

• What makes Ann Arbor special?
  • Ann Arbor is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and pedestrian-friendly downtown core.
  • It is an artsy, liberal city centered around the University of Michigan.
• What can visitors find in downtown Ann Arbor?
  • The downtown streets are jam-packed with bookstores, free-trade coffee shops, and art galleries.
  • Many restaurants and cafes offer outdoor seating so guests can enjoy their food al fresco.
• Are there craft breweries in Ann Arbor?
  • Yes! Ann Arbor has plenty of downtown craft breweries for beer lovers to explore.
• Is there a farmers market in Ann Arbor?
  • Yes! A farmers market is held once or twice a week year-round, offering fresh, local produce and goods.
• Can visitors enjoy outdoor activities in Ann Arbor?
  • Yes! Visitors can rent a canoe or kayak and paddle down the Huron River for a relaxing outdoor adventure.

2. Bay City

• What is Bay City known for?
  • Named for its location near the base of picturesque Saginaw Bay, Bay City offers an endless variety of things to see and do.
• What activities can visitors enjoy in Bay City?
  • Take a bike tour of the local breweries for a taste of Michigan craft beer.
  • Sail the blue waters of Lake Huron on an Appledore Tall Ship.
  • Browse the antique center, which spans an entire city block and is filled with unique finds.
• What is the 3rd Street Star Bridge?
  • If you're in Bay City at night, be sure to visit the 3rd Street Star Bridge to admire its gleaming lights.
• Are there outdoor trails in Bay City?
  • Yes! The city provides easy access to approximately 100 miles of trails for:
    • Walking and cycling during the warmer months
    • Snowshoeing in the winter

3. Belle Isle Park

• What is Belle Isle Park?
  • Belle Isle Park is a stunning island park located just a few minutes away from Detroit's city center, encompassing Belle Isle and several surrounding islets in the Detroit River.
• What family-friendly attractions does Belle Isle Park offer?
  • The park boasts a variety of family-friendly attractions, including:
  • A fascinating aquarium
  • An interactive nature center
  • A lush conservatory
• What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy at Belle Isle Park?
  • For those who prefer the outdoors, the park offers:
  • A six-mile jogging road encircling the park
  • Pedal boat and standup paddleboard rentals for exploring the surrounding waters
  • Scenic picnic spots, including Sunset Point for breathtaking views

4. Chelsea

• What is Chelsea known for?
  • Chelsea is a small city in southeastern Michigan with a vibrant art scene and many opportunities for outdoor recreation.
• What can visitors find in Chelsea's historic downtown?
  • The historic downtown area features charming Victorian buildings and a lively atmosphere.
  • Main Street offers an excellent selection of:
    • Restaurants
    • Cafes
    • Specialty boutiques
• What cultural and tour experiences does Chelsea offer?
  • Visitors can take a self-guided Sculpture Walk that leads through the downtown streets, showcasing unique art pieces.
  • They can also tour the JIFFY mix factory to see how the famous baking mix is made.
  • Additionally, guests can explore one of the local breweries and distilleries to enjoy craft drinks.
• What outdoor activities are available near Chelsea?
  • Chelsea serves as the gateway to the Waterloo Recreation Area, a massive 20,000-acre park.
  • Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy:
    • Hiking
    • Fishing
    • Picnicking
    • Skiing in the winter

5. Cleveland

• What makes Cleveland a great destination?
  • Cleveland is a vibrant city nestled along Lake Erie, offering a bustling waterfront and a world-class culinary scene.
• What is Cleveland's most famous attraction?
  • The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is perhaps the city's best-known attraction and is definitely worth a visit.
• What are some other must-visit attractions in Cleveland?
  • The Cleveland Museum of Art offers free admission and has enough galleries to fill an entire afternoon.
  • Sports lovers should try to catch a game at Progressive Field for an exciting live sports experience.
• Are there good beaches in Cleveland?
  • Yes! Cleveland offers an excellent array of beaches, including:
    • Edgewater Beach – A resort-like destination with stunning lake views.
    • Huntington Reservation – A more secluded stretch of coast for peaceful relaxation.

6. Cuyahoga National Park

• What is Cuyahoga National Park known for?
  • Cuyahoga National Park was created to protect the beautiful land along the Cuyahoga River.
  • It boasts more than 100 waterfalls, including the breathtaking Brandywine Falls, which tumbles over a 60-foot cliff into a stunning gorge.
• How can visitors experience the park?
  • Visitors have the unique opportunity to take a two-and-a-half-hour train ride through the park on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
• Are there activities for cyclists?
  • Yes! Cyclists can opt to purchase a one-way ticket on the train and cycle back to the station for a scenic ride through the park.
• What hiking opportunities does the park offer?
  • If you'd rather explore the park on foot, there are more than 125 miles of trails that meander through:
    • Marshland
    • Sandstone gulches
    • Along the Cuyahoga River

15610 Vaughn Road, Brecksville, OH 44141, Phone: 330-657-2752

7. For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum

• What is the history of the For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum?
  • The preserve was formerly a working dairy farm.
  • It was donated to Genesee County by Forbes and Martha Merkley to prevent urban sprawl from overtaking their beautiful property.
• What trails and outdoor activities are available?
  • There are seven miles of trails that wind through the gently rolling landscape.
  • Visitors can borrow snowshoes, walking sticks, and themed Discovery Backpacks from the Visitor's Center free of charge.
• What can visitors learn at the For-Mar Visitor's Center?
  • The Visitor's Center offers informational panels and interactive displays about the area's flora and fauna.
  • Live animal exhibits provide an up-close look at local wildlife.
  • On weekends, visitors can attend interesting naturalist programs that educate and entertain.

2142 N Genesee Rd, Burton, MI 48509, Phone: 810-736-7100

8. Frankenmuth

• Why is Frankenmuth known as "Michigan's Little Bavaria"?
  • Frankenmuth is famous for its Bavarian hospitality and culture.
  • The city features Bavarian architecture, an authentic German-style shopping market, and a variety of restaurants serving traditional German cuisine.
• What dining experiences can visitors enjoy?
  • Frankenmuth is known for its welcoming restaurants that serve:
    • Traditional family-style chicken dinners
    • Bavarian sweets like strudels and pastries
• What are some unique shopping attractions in Frankenmuth?
  • Visitors can browse an authentic German cuckoo clock shop, featuring intricate timepieces.
  • The city is also home to Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store.
• What activities and attractions can visitors enjoy?
  • Take a romantic carriage ride through the charming streets.
  • Get an adrenaline rush at the Frankenmuth Aerial Park, featuring fun treetop adventures.
  • Relax on a wine and chocolate cruise down the picturesque river.

Phone: 800-386-8696

9. Harrisville State Park

• What is Harrisville State Park known for?
  • Harrisville State Park is one of the oldest state parks in Michigan, occupying a 107-acre property on the shores of Lake Huron.
• What natural features does the park offer?
  • Much of the land is covered with cedar and pine trees, with two miles of hiking trails winding through the forest.
  • There is also a sandy beach with a designated swimming area and a shady picnic pavilion.
• What recreational activities are available?
  • Visitors can enjoy a metal detecting area for treasure hunting.
  • Sports enthusiasts can use the horseshoe pit as well as the volleyball and basketball courts.
• Are there biking opportunities?
  • Yes! Bike rentals are available in the park.
  • Visitors can also stroll or cycle into the town of Harrisville along a short, paved multi-use trail.

248 State Park Rd, Harrisville, MI 48740, Phone: 989-724-5126

10. Hell

• Where is Hell, Michigan?
  • Hell is a unique town located just an hour away from Detroit, nestled in the hills of Livingston County.
• What makes Hell a fun place to visit?
  • The town features diabolical attractions and a playful, devilish theme to entertain visitors.
  • Guests can take quirky selfies at one of the cartoon demon cut-outs scattered throughout the town.
• Where can visitors eat in Hell?
  • Stop by the Hell Hole Diner for a delicious pizza or burger.
  • If you’re craving something sweet, head to the Creamatory at Screams and try a Gravedigger Sundae.

923 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201, Phone: 734-878-2233