This article is sponsored by Moo-Ville Creamery in Nashville, MI.
West Michigan is full of surprises—places off the beaten path that deliver unforgettable experiences. From quirky roadside attractions to scenic wineries, cultural landmarks, and secret beach towns, these hidden gems are just waiting to be explored.
Moo-Ville Creamery – Nashville
- Experience farm-fresh fun at Moo-Ville Creamery in Nashville, where you can enjoy creamy, award-winning ice cream made on-site, visit with farm animals, and watch the production process firsthand. It’s a sweet West Michigan destination for all ages.
Lake Arvesta Farms – South Haven
- Just minutes from downtown South Haven, Lake Arvesta is a freshwater playground offering two inflatable aqua parks, a cable wakeboarding course, and indoor/outdoor pickleball courts. It’s also a beautiful West Michigan event venue for weddings, conferences, and reunions.
Modales Wines – Fennville
- Southwest Michigan is a wine lover’s paradise, and Modales Wines in Fennville is a true hidden gem. Enjoy exceptional lakeshore wines and an unpretentious tasting experience that captures the spirit of Pure Michigan. Plan your visit here.
Virtue Cider – Fennville
- Nestled in the heart of Michigan’s cider country, Virtue Cider in Fennville offers farm-to-glass hard ciders crafted from locally grown apples. Tour the orchards, relax in the cider garden, and sip seasonal flavors while enjoying the pastoral West Michigan setting.
Salt of the Earth – Fennville
- Known for its warm hospitality and farm-to-table menu, Salt of the Earth in Fennville celebrates West Michigan’s agricultural bounty. Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, seasonal dishes, and live music in a cozy, rustic setting that embodies the charm of a small town.
The Ball and Chain – Saugatuck/Douglas
- Experience the Art Coast like never before. Ride the last hand-cranked Chain Ferry, hike up 303 steps to Mt. Baldhead, admire the Cold War-era radar tower, and descend to world-famous Oval Beach—all in one epic adventure.
Journeyman Welter’s Folly – Three Oaks
- Located at Journeyman, Welter’s Folly is a massive 30,000 sq. ft. putting green inspired by Scotland’s famed Himalayas course. Add handcrafted cocktails, local treats, and family-friendly fun—this unique Southwest Michigan attraction is a golfer’s delight.
The Morris Estate – Niles
- Overlooking the scenic St. Joseph River, The Morris Estate offers a serene bed and breakfast experience with tranquil river walks, gourmet breakfasts, and peaceful evenings by the fire—perfect for reconnecting with nature in Southwest Michigan.
Lincoln Portrait – Battle Creek
- Crafted from 24,500 pennies, the 12-foot-tall A. Lincoln portrait by Richard Schlater won ArtPrize 9. See it in Battle Creek, alongside powerful memorials honoring the Underground Railroad and the legacy of Sojourner Truth.
Tibbits Opera House – Coldwater
- Step into Coldwater’s beautifully restored Tibbits Opera House for year-round live entertainment. From Broadway musicals to hometown productions, this Victorian gem offers magic and charm in every performance.
Coldwater Country – Southern Michigan
- Explore Coldwater Country’s Amish countryside, over 100 pristine lakes, steam train rides, Victorian shops, and retro drive-in movies at the Capri Drive-In. Affordable lodging, destination dining, and hidden adventures await in this often-overlooked West Michigan destination.
Pierce Cedar Creek Institute – Hastings
- This 850-acre nature preserve near Hastings features 10 miles of hiking trails, open daily and free to the public. Enjoy peaceful woodlands, environmental education, and a deeper appreciation for West Michigan’s wild side.
5 Mile Hill Overlook – Grand Haven
- For panoramic views of Grand Haven and Lake Michigan, hike or drive up 5 Mile Hill via Emmet or Prospect Street. From the summit, you can see five miles in every direction—perfect for photo ops and sunset watching.
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
- Now through August 30, 2025, experience “Alma’s Way: Welcome to My Neighborhood!” at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. Based on the PBS KIDS series, this hands-on exhibit fosters creativity and problem-solving for children and caregivers alike. Learn more.
Frederik Meijer Gardens – Grand Rapids
- Explore over 300 sculptures, a lush conservatory, tranquil gardens, and winding nature trails at West Michigan’s award-winning Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park—named Best Sculpture Park in the U.S. three years running by USA Today.
Amber Elk Ranch – Ludington
- Hop on a guided wagon tour through this 130-acre Ludington ranch, home to world-class bull elk. Learn about North America’s largest deer species and enjoy fresh-grilled lunch every Saturday through Labor Day.
Muskegon Museum of Art
- A cultural gem in downtown Muskegon, this small museum boasts nationally recognized exhibitions and iconic works of art. With its world-class collection, it’s one of West Michigan’s most under-the-radar artistic experiences.
Grand City Show Skiers – Muskegon
- Catch free summer water ski shows on Mona Lake at Ross Park Beach in Norton Shores. With pyramids, barefoot skiing, and fun themes, the Grand City Show Skiers offer a splash of family-friendly excitement.
Hidden Holland
- Go beyond the tulips and explore Holland’s hidden gems like the Oz Sculpture Garden, thrilling Holland Aquatic Center, and the nostalgic Holland Bowl Mill. There’s something unexpected around every corner in this vibrant lakeshore town.
RedWater Golf & Dining – Grand Rapids/Saugatuck
- RedWater’s public golf courses and lakeside restaurants are West Michigan treasures. Tee off at Thornapple Pointe or Ravines Golf Club, then enjoy summer cocktails and fresh meals at one of their welcoming dining spots. More info.
KISStory Tour – Cadillac
- Celebrate the 50th anniversary of KISS’s legendary 1975 visit to Cadillac. Visit the KISS Monument, explore themed local businesses, and enjoy a rocking summer tribute in this Northern Michigan town that blends sports, music, and history.
Bonobo Winery – Traverse City
- Sip wine, enjoy sunset views over West Grand Traverse Bay, and relax on Bonobo Winery’s scenic patio. Whether it’s a glass or a full tasting, you can customize your visit and make unforgettable memories in Northern Michigan wine country.
Leelanau Historical Society Museum – Leland
- Just blocks from historic Fishtown, this hidden gem explores local shipwrecks and Anishinaabek heritage. View nautical artifacts, porcupine quillwork, and more at one of Northern Michigan’s best-kept historical secrets.
Mushroom Houses – Charlevoix
- The whimsical homes of architect Earl Young are known as Charlevoix’s “Mushroom Houses.” Built without blueprints, these stone cottages blend naturally into the landscape and are a must-see piece of West Michigan architectural history.
Inland Seas Education – Suttons Bay
- Set sail on Lake Michigan and explore Great Lakes science with Inland Seas’ public schooner sails. These hands-on adventures bring lake ecology to life for kids and adults alike. A must-try Northern Michigan experience!
Motel Bear Lake – Northern Michigan
- This retro-modern motel near the Chain of Lakes offers pet-friendly lodging, a seasonal pool, and community events. Motel Bear Lake is redefining roadside hospitality with style, charm, and small-town Northern Michigan spirit.
Treetops Resort Disc Golf – Gaylord
- Known for championship golf, Treetops Resort now features a custom 9-hole disc golf course designed by their slope team. It’s a fun new way to enjoy this scenic and activity-rich resort in Northern Michigan.
Petoskey Area Trails
- Discover Petoskey’s best-kept hiking secrets. Offield Family Viewlands offers sweeping valley and bay views, while Thorne Swift Nature Preserve features Lake Michigan trails and a seasonal Nature Center—a peaceful Northern Michigan getaway.
Chateau Grand Traverse – Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail
- Celebrate 51 years of winemaking with flatbread pizzas and chilled Riesling at Chateau Grand Traverse. Enjoy “Pizza on the Peninsula” with vineyard views and exclusive seltzers on tap—perfect for your next West Michigan wine trail stop.
Black Star Farms – Suttons Bay
- Explore miles of scenic trails at Black Star Farms or hop on a Leelanau Wine Trail bike tour. Afterward, unwind with wine or cocktails on the terrace and soak in stunning views of vineyards and forests.
Shanty Creek Resort – Bellaire
- Just 30 minutes from Traverse City, Shanty Creek offers 5,500 acres of scenic beauty. Experience championship golf, fall color tours, hot air balloon festivals, and nearby wineries—all wrapped in authentic Northern Michigan charm.
Walloon Lake & Hemingway Tour
- Walk in Hemingway’s footsteps at Walloon Lake, where you can enjoy cocktails, boat rides, live music, and views of crystal-clear waters. Explore the Michigan Hemingway Walking Tour with stops in Walloon, Petoskey, and Horton Bay.
Kiwidinok Farm – Boyne City
- Visit Tibetan Yaks and a menagerie of friendly animals at Kiwidinok Farm in Boyne City—a delightful Northern Michigan experience for families and animal lovers alike.
Lakenenland Sculpture Park – Marquette
- Located in the Upper Peninsula, Lakenenland features over 100 whimsical metal sculptures crafted from scrap. Enjoy bog walks, fishing ponds, live stages, and more in this free, family-friendly outdoor art park near Marquette.
