This famous little German town is dubbed "Little Bavaria" by the millions of tourists who pass through its cobblestone streets and covered wooden bridge each year. Traditions here run deep and are centered by two iconic landmarks, Zehnder's and Bavarian Inn, both of which have indoor waterparks and legendary chicken dinners.

You can tour the area on a horse-drawn carriage, pedal trolley, or riverboat cruise in addition to walking along streets adorned with Bavarian architecture and admiring the scenic riverfront. This gives the area a decidedly European flavor.

The general attitude of this famous location, which receives more than 3 million visitors each year, can be summed up by the German term for welcome, willkommen. Think of dirndls and lederhosen, German beer and schnitzel, and the unforgettable weekend you had in the eponymous "Little Bavaria". Despite being nicknamed as "Little Bavaria," this town is home to two of Michigan's best indoor waterparks and the biggest Christmas store in the world, drawing more than 3 million tourists there each year.

• Location: Michigan

Holland is renowned around the world for its celebrated Tulip Time Festival, which honors Dutch culture. As millions of tulips blossom throughout the city in the spring, you'll have the chance to have a genuine Dutch experience. You'll adore Holland's small town charm and big city conveniences, from the award-winning downtown to the white sandy beaches.

Dine along the water or at a neighborhood café. Climb up a windmill or hike to the top of a sand dune. Discover a cutting-edge college campus or a charming Dutch town. Holland is the ideal one-stop destination, offering everything from neighborhood breweries to the immaculate Lake Michigan coastline!

When Tulip Time rolls around, there are millions of blossoms creating patchwork fields of color and Klompen (wooden shoe) dancers come to the streets (USA Today voted Tulip Time the best flower festival). 130 acres of farmland in Holland have been turned back into a natural landscape as part of the Outdoor Discovery Centre initiative.

They have mostly been successful, and as a result, there are now six separate ecosystems in the region. The region offers lots of chances to learn about the various ecosystems and environments, and it's also a terrific place to trek along walking trails and see wildlife.

• Location: Michigan

Wisconsin may be reached, if not quickly, then certainly amusingly, thanks to the retro passenger ferry known as The Badger, which has been operating since 1953. As you travel between Ludington and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, you can relax on the deck, compete for prizes at Badger Bingo, and even catch a movie in the teeny on-board theater.

It is the only one of the five Great Lakes that is wholly within the borders of the United States, stretching the entire west coast of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. The state's two cleanest lakes, Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, are indispensible when discussing the best lakes in Michigan.

Additionally, no discussion about Lake Michigan would be complete without mentioning the breathtaking 35-mile length of the lake's eastern shoreline known as Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Its beauty is virtually impossible to express. Perhaps as a result, there are several bluff overlooks where you can take pictures that are quite inspirational.

Scale the dunes, which can rise more than 450 feet above the lake, if you're up for the challenge. You'll be amply rewarded with panoramic vistas of the coastline and Leelanau Country's interior.

• Location: Michigan

Turnip Rock near Port Austin, Michigan, is incredibly well-known for being a landmark that isn't even open to the public by land. According to the Port Austin Chamber of Commerce, Turnip Rock is the subject of 75% of all incoming phone calls.

The executive director of the chamber, Cameron Schwanitz, claims that many people will genuinely phone and ask, "Turnip Rock?" But she asserts that she can understand why people are drawn to this picturesque rock stack in Lake Huron since, as she puts it, "there's nothing quite like it." Turnip Rock, a curious landmark off the coast of Michigan's Thumb, is a popular tourist destination.

Turnip Rock emerges from the water not far from the Pointe aux Barques exclusive gated community's coastline. As a result, there is no public access to observe Turnip Rock from the coastline unless you know someone who owns a home there or you manage to score a ticket to the neighborhood's biennial home tour, which, according to Schwanitz, is sold out this year.

• Location: Michigan

Let's Mark July 1–8th, 2023, on your calendar for the event! Parades, big-name musical performances, and a celebration of the state's agricultural legacy through all things cherry are among the 150 must-attend activities. How do you beat eight days of entertainment, good food, and enjoyable family-friendly activities? Obviously, with a cherry on top!

This is the National Cherry Festival, after all. The "Blessing of the Blossoms," which was first held in 1925, was a way to honor the region's abundant cherry harvest. It is one of the biggest and most well-liked festivals in the nation, attracting over 500,000 visitors throughout its eight-day duration.

The Traverse City Cherry Festival is a ton of excitement and joy. Attractions and rides along the midway will draw thrill-seekers in droves. Favorite foods from local eateries as well as Gibby's Fries and smoked turkey legs will be served by vendors. For live performances, top performers take the stage. The opportunity to have a blast is always present at the festival.

• Location: Michigan

Where cities like Port Sanilac and Lexington have charming harbors, sand beaches, vintage cottages, and more. The "Sunrise Side" of Michigan begins at Mackinaw City on the lake's northeastern shore. At Colonial Michilimackinac's "Tip of the Mitt," Redcoats fire muskets while dressed-up interpreters describe life in 18th-century northern Michigan.

The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse in the foreground makes photographing the impressive Mackinac Bridge a photographer's dream come true. The vibrant red rooftops and sandy-colored lighthouse provide the ideal complement to the dazzling blue waters of the Straits of Mackinac. Just a short drive from the bridge, the multi-block downtown area of Mackinaw City features a selection of retail stores and dining options.

Even though a road is less traveled, there are still plenty of experiences to be had along the way. This is undoubtedly the case for the more tranquil region of the state, where Port Huron is a terrific place to start exploring before traveling further north. You'll soon see why people in the know find Michigan's east shore to be so alluring, whether you're looking to get back in touch with nature or explore a range of cultural places.

• Location: Michigan

You may have heard people use these phrases when discussing The University of Michigan and Ann Arbor. One of the top public universities in the nation is the University of Michigan, which is situated in Ann Arbor, one of the best college towns in the country. Leader in higher education, U-M draws the best academics and students from around the globe. The University offers an unrivaled athletic program, a lively, varied community of leaders, and a long history of academic distinction.

You can roam around the University of Michigan campus and take in the breathtaking architecture and interesting history for yourself. Admire Michigan Stadium, affectionately referred to as "the Big House," and stroll through the Nichols Arboretum's trails while taking in views of the lovely Huron River.

The magnificent William W. Cook Law Quadrangle, which includes living and dining areas, educational spaces, a mock courtroom, and more, was the nation's first self-contained law school. Zingerman's Deli, a popular and highly recommended destination for tourists, locals, students, and recent graduates alike, is a trip you can't skip.

• Location: Michigan

The tunnel of trees in Michigan is an imaginative journey for nature lovers of all ages, beginning on M-119 close to Harbor Springs and meandering to an endpoint close to Cross Village (or vice versa). Whether you use a car or a bicycle, you won't soon forget your journey along this breathtaking section of road. It's unquestionably unique! The M-119 in Michigan is a 20-mile stretch of winding, picturesque road that has a distinctly mystical vibe to it.

One of Northern Michigan's must-see attractions is the fittingly named Tunnel Of Trees. You'll be entranced by the abundance of evergreen and hardwood trees along the drive, which tower over the road and appear to enclose motorists or bicyclists in a "tunnel" of greenery, depending on the season, or beautiful fall colors.

However, when you visit the Tunnel Of Trees, you'll see more than just trees. Beautiful sunbeams, breathtaking lake vistas, or even just a quick glance at some of the area's most charming residences can enhance the special experience. Along the way, you'll pass a number of must-see pit stations. Pond Hill Farm, a charming establishment where you can buy fresh food and sample several wines from the on-site vineyard, is located just north of Harbor Springs.

• Location: Michigan

Snowshoeing is a fantastic alternative if you're seeking for ways to enjoy Pure Michigan's wintertime outdoors. Learn how to construct your own snowshoes this winter from the Department of Natural Resources by reading on. Changing from flip-flops to weatherproof boots or, in some situations, snowshoes can help you adjust to winter. A snowshoe-making workshop can be the perfect fit for you if you enjoy doing things on your own and enjoy the revitalizing sense of being outside in the winter.

Visitors can enroll in a two-day program at Hartwick Pines State Park that teaches them how to make Bear Paw-style snowshoes, an oval-shaped shoe capable of supporting 200 pounds or less. It takes some focus and concentration to lace the snowshoes. Anyone who has ever created their own pair will attest to the pride that comes from mastering such a distinctive and enduring talent. When you're finished, you'll have a pair of snowshoes that will hold up through many snowy winters.

• Location: Michigan

A scrumptious cinnamon roll is the perfect treat if you have a sweet craving. That traditional blend of soft dough, crispy edges, and gooey frosting is simply indescribably exquisite. While most bakeries sell these mouthwatering sweets, one Michigan business offers cinnamon rolls that are unique from anything you've ever seen. Prepare to splurge! Make your way to this delightful family restaurant when you're ready for an amazing (and incredibly tasty) adventure. There is a lot to be happy about. You'll be enchanted by Hilltop's warm atmosphere the moment you arrive. This wonderful restaurant has been family-run for more than 60 years.

Whatever your cravings, you'll be able to find something to like here. Hilltop takes pride in offering home-cooked meals created with delicious, fresh ingredients. Hilltop's renowned "Sweet Roll," an absurdly huge cinnamon roll that weighs more than a pound, steals the show. You did read that right—one pound! You'll soon be taken to a sweet paradise whether you split the enormous roll with family or devour it entirely by yourself. Is there a more delightful treat you can think of?

• Location: Michigan