You’ll find endless ways to have fun during summer in West Michigan!
Scroll down for summer inspiration from some of our favorite West Michigan destinations.
Ludington
Pure Ludington
Escape to the breathtaking beauty of Ludington this summer! With its idyllic beaches, vibrant downtown, and endless outdoor activities, Ludington is the perfect destination for your vacation. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan, hike through lush forests, and enjoy the charm of local shops and restaurants. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Ludington has it all. Experience unforgettable moments and create lasting memories this summer in Ludington. Plan your getaway today and make the most of this enchanting destination!
Suttons Bay
Black Star Farms
Make the most of your summer by joining us as we celebrate 25 years at Black Star Farms! Indulge in fine wine, luxury accommodations, and exclusive silver anniversary events. We are also thrilled to announce the opening of our new restaurant, Bistro Polaris, where Mediterranean-inspired cuisine meets local charm. Bring the family and savor the flavors of summer surrounded by the beauty of Michigan wine country.
Keweenaw
Visit Keweenaw
In the Keweenaw, open skies, long trails, and fresh waters are in our DNA. With Isle Royale National Park in our backyard and Lake Superior along our coasts, outdoor recreation opportunities are abundant all summer long. Come explore our endless hiking and biking trails, farmers markets, historical attractions and local shops and restaurants and discover the best of Pure Michigan. Let’s plan a summer adventure today. #AdventureNorth
Marshall
Cornwell’s Turkeyville
In addition to their campground, dinner theatre, turkey restaurant, gift shop, and ice cream parlor, Turkeyville has a whole summer of special events planned! Check out their event calendar to get the scoop on their annual car show, comedy night, arts & crafts show, and so much more.
Harbor Springs
The Highlands at Harbor Springs
Unleash your inner adventurer in northern Michigan! From exciting activities to cozy bonfires, The Highlands near Harbor Springs offers a charming summer getaway. Explore woodland forests, conquer ziplines, and challenge yourself with mountain biking. Golfers will love four championship courses, while our newly remodeled Main Lodge guest rooms provide spacious comfort. Enjoy sunset dinners, patio breezes, and live entertainment. Discover quaint towns, breathtaking sunsets, and fun activities. With resort amenities and an unbeatable location, create unforgettable memories at The Highlands.
Thompsonville
Crystal Mountain
Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville includes two championship golf courses, both rated ★★★★ by Golf Digest. The Mountain Ridge course – long-time home of the Michigan PGA Women’s Open – is quintessential “Up North golf”: a fair challenge with significant elevation changes and wide, tree-lined fairways. The recently renovated Betsie Valley course is now even more playable and forgiving. The 10-acre Golf Learning Center – a Golf Digest Editors’ Choice – includes an expansive driving range, practice bunkers and putting green. More at CrystalMountain.com
Thompsonville
Crystal Mountain
At Crystal Mountain, get up to 25% off select dates through 10/31/23. Great accommodations are available throughout the charming village. Dining, shops, and, according to Spas of America, the finest spa in Michigan are a short walk away. Enjoy two 18-hole championship golf courses, dozens of art sculptures in the outdoor Michigan Legacy Art Park, swimming, scenic chairlift rides, hiking and biking miles of local trails, tennis or pickleball, and group fitness classes. To get up to 25% off select dates, visit CrystalMountain.com/hotdates
Big Rapids
Big Rapids Area
Explore Summer Fun in the Big Rapids Region! Experience county-wide farmers markets, endless trails for hiking and biking, over 100 lakes for fishing and boating plus our breathtaking parks. Enjoy the Annual Car Fest plus Kids Fest, free musical events, world class golf and don’t forget disc golf as well. Entice your taste buds at a great winery or brewery and then end your day at one of our amazing lodging facilities. Plan your next stay at BigRapids.org.
Grand Rapids
Fowling Warehouse
Get your family Fowling (Foe-Ling) this summer and create the HEAT in our air-conditioned Fowling Warehouse. With extended summer hours, and 45,000 sq. ft, we keep it COOL for all ages – all day! Half off Open Play every day noon-six (20 years and under) With 30 Fowling lanes, COLD drinks from our 2-45 ft bars, an arcade area, over 25 TV’s, our entertainment venue has fun for the whole family this summer! To reserve a 2-hour private lane for up to 10 guests, email us at Info@Fowlingwarehousegr.com.
Suttons Bay
Shady Lane Cellars
Spend your summer at Shady Lane! We have LIVE music every Friday night from 5:30-8:30pm. On July, 15 from 3:00-9:30pm join us for our Blues & BBQ Fest featuring food trucks and two local blues bands: Crosscut Kings and Keith Scott Blues. Our Dinner in the Vines event will be on August 10th . This will be an elegant farm to table menu with seating in our vineyards. We will also have LIVE music that evening. See our website for more information and tickets!
Traverse City
Chateau Chantal
Summer On The Traverse Wine Coast. Summer has arrived, and we are in full swing here at the winery! Plan your trip now to enjoy our picturesque vineyard views, backdropped by the crystal blue water of both Grand Traverse Bays. Make your reservations to sip a glass or flight of wine on either of our enchanting patios. If you’d prefer a more immersive experience, join us for our new pizza & rosé pairing, Sips & Slices, or a delicious 6-course wine dinner featuring a brand new summer menu!
St. Joseph
Silver Harbor Brewing Company
Michigan memories are made wearing flip flops in summer time, strolling the beach towns while grabbing a cold can of Silver Harbor Brew. We worry about nothing but Good Timez, So Heffen Good tan lines, and watching those amazing Lake Michigan sunsets and Kumbaya camp fires. No Tourist Trap here, except for an excellent beer – so wherever your summer takes you be sure to take a little piece of Southwest Michigan along by grabbing a can or pint of Silver Harbor Brewing Company for life’s journey! Cheers!
Grand Haven
Tri-Cities Historical Museum
Summer is here! The Tri-Cities Historical Museum is the perfect family destination. Escape the heat inside our beautifully restored and air-conditioned 1871 building. The museum is full of interactive history, special exhibits, free family explorer bags, and Coast Guard artifacts! Shop the museum store for unique local gifts, and don’t forget our special summer exhibit, Play Ball! Sports History in the Tri-Cities on display now through September 24. Best of all, museum admission is always FREE!
Ludington
S.S. Badger
Celebrating 70 years of service in 2023, enjoy a four-hour cruise across Lake Michigan from Ludington, Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin. A National Historic Landmark, the BADGER is one of a kind. Experience famous Badger Bingo, drinks, dining, shopping, movie theatre, kids’ activities, and more while aboard. The BADGER can connect you to many great destinations in the Upper Midwest. Bring you RV, camper, semi, car or motorcycle and travel beyond. Take a lake break with us and relax while saving time and miles!
Cadillac
Visit Greater Cadillac
Take some time to slow down and connect with nature in the greater Cadillac area – a premier Michigan summertime destination! Soak up the sun with leisurely walks around Lake Cadillac, biking our pathways and trails or relaxing on lakefront beaches and riverbanks. Head downtown for some shopping or catch a stunning sunset while patio dining in Cadillac West. With a plethora of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, hiking, paddling, camping, biking, and golfing, Cadillac offers endless opportunities for summer fun!
Statewide
Amtrak Michigan
This summer, there are many reasons to see all Michigan has to offer by train. Take your bike onboard and explore more than 1,300 miles of Michigan trails. With over 650 beautiful public courses, Michigan features some of the best golfing anywhere. Bring your clubs for only $10. Your four-legged friends travel for as little as $29. Amtrak’s online booking experience makes it easy to plan your trip. Book in advance and save up to 20%. Plan your Michigan getaway today!
Zeeland
Critter Barn
Soar into Summer at the Critter Barn! Zeeland’s Educational Farm is at their new location. Come and browse around the new farm which is fully accessible for people using wheelchairs, walkers and strollers. You will enjoy hands-on activities and up close and personal encounters with all the friendly farm animals. Critter Barn is voted one of GR-Kids’ TOP-10 places to visit animals. Classes, demonstrations, and real-farm experiences await every guest, along with ducks, goslings, chickens, goats, sheep, calves, and bunnies!
Grand Rapids
Blandford Nature Center
Explore the great outdoors this summer at Blandford Nature Center! As a West Michigan resource for over 50 years, we provide 264 acres of natural lands to enjoy including forests, wetlands, and meadows. Our goal is to provide enriching experiences in nature for our entire community – this is accomplished by encouraging visitors of all ages to explore 8 miles of trails, visit over 40 wildlife ambassadors, and participate in a variety of interactive programming. More information can be found at: blandfordnaturecenter.org
Honor
Riverside Canoe Trips
This spring, explore Michigan’s Platte River with Riverside Canoe Trips in Honor Michigan! Located about 30 minutes from Traverse City, Riverside rents canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and more, right on the Platte River, in the beautiful Sleeping Bear Dunes. Whether you want to embark on a family trip, or an adventure with friends, Riverside is ready to accommodate groups of all sizes. You’ll find clear water, sandy beaches, and a new adventure at each bend of your trip!
South Haven
Visit South Haven
Chart an expedition for summer fun in South Haven! Catch free Riverfront Concerts every Thursday along the South Marina, marvel at the Light Up the Lake Fireworks on July 3, and see how the “Blueberry Capital of the World” celebrates harvest season at the 60th Annual National Blueberry Festival from August 10-13th! Click below for a full calendar of annual events and things to do week-to-week!
Kalamazoo
Air Zoo
Kick off your summer with a trip to the Air Zoo. This Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace and science center is open 7 days and is brimming with summer programming and events. Explore 200,000+ square feet of exhibit space, filled with air and spacecraft, hands-on exhibits, indoor rides, full-motion flight simulators and theater. You’ll also want to visit their nationally-recognized restoration center where they’re restoring two WWII aircraft rescued from Lake Michigan. Come imagine, explore and discover at the Air Zoo!
Battle Creek
Battle Creek CVB
Hot air balloons, jet planes, giant kites, fireworks and Ferris wheels take over the skies of Battle Creek from June 29 to July 4. The Field of Flight Air Show and Balloon Festival is about to begin! Be sure to bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs and some money for fried food and carnival rides. The air show is only the start of big summer events in Calhoun County – check out these festivals and fairs for memorable experiences.
Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island Tourism
Choose Your Own Adventure.
Mackinac Island’s bustling downtown, rich history, and gorgeous views await! Start planning now to get the most out of your island adventure. There’s Fourth of July festivities, including a stone skipping contest. Later in the year, a delicious Fudge Festival for every sweet tooth. Or perhaps it’s Halloween that really appeals.
Whatever your island desires, Mackinac can deliver!
Mackinaw City
Mackinac State Historic Parks
Have an Adventure this summer at Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park! Smell the sawdust as sawyers demonstrate the pitsaw method of cutting lumber, feel the power of the creek used to cut timber inside a water-powered sawmill, and explore nature with a trained naturalist. Then, join us on the Forest Adventure Experience, a guided trek that takes you into, above, and through the northern Michigan forest. Scale the Treetop Discovery Tower, brave the Forest Canopy Bridge, and fly like an eagle down the 425’ Eagle’s Flight Zip Line.
Grand Rapids
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
As the balmy breeze of summer envelops us, there is no better way to celebrate the season than by immersing yourself in the harmonious melodies of the Fifth Third Bank Summer Concerts at Meijer Gardens and the Ayers Basement Systems Tuesday Evening Music Club at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan. These annual concert series have become a cherished tradition, offering diverse lineups of world-class musicians in a unique and picturesque outdoor setting.
Fennville
Fenn Valley Vineyards
Help celebrate 50 years producing wine made from Michigan grapes! Our biggest event of the year, Wine Festival is held on June 24th in the heart of our stunning 240-acre property. The annual party, amped up for the 50th anniversary, features wine tastings and yard games in the vineyards, local food, live music, a wine demonstration in the production cellar and great sales on award winning wine and hard cider. Kick off another great Michigan summer with Fenn Valley!
Mackinaw City/St. Ignace
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry
Planning your family’s summer adventure to Mackinac Island? Start your experience with a FERRY impressive ride on the reliable, steadfast, safe & timely Shepler’s Ferry boats. Offering daily departures every 30 minutes from St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, Shepler’s will quickly ferry you away to biking, beaches, horses and fudge. Create lasting memories this summer as you tour Mackinac Island. Buy tickets and learn about FREE day parking at www.sheplersferry.com, then enjoy our first class service. Every guest. Every day.
Upper Peninsula
UP Travel
Summer is the time to get outside and play, and there is no better playground than Michigan’s Upper Peninsula! Enjoy thousands of peaceful miles of uncrowded trails with jaw-dropping views and three Great Lakes of freshwater fun. Cast a line, splash around, dive for shipwrecks and more! There are 4,300 inland lakes and 12,000 miles of rivers and streams. Or visit our 300+ waterfalls and national and state parks. Discover these adventures and more this summer!
Saugatuck
Saugatuck Center for the Arts
Experience Broadway in Saugatuck at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts! This summer, the SCA brings iconic hits, innovative choreography, and a little attitude to the stage with two bold musicals; Kinky Boots from June 23 – July 16 and Jersey Boys from August 11 – September 3. Tickets ranging $25 – $83 are available online at sc4a.org or by calling the box office at 269-857-2399.
Lansing
Greater Lansing Area
Looking for a great weekend road trip? Greater Lansing’s attractions, recreational and entertainment facilities are inviting you to come play this summer. And planning your summer escape has just gotten a lot easier with the new Lansing Experience Pass! Just download to your phone, check in, accumulate points and redeem for prizes. From museums and science centers to arts and outdoor activities, you’ll discover adventures for all ages right in the heart of Michigan. Choose Lansing for your next weekend getaway!
Traverse City
Traverse City Tourism
Respect – Connect – Celebrate. Boasting miles of national lakeshore and seemingly never-ending, crystal-clear waters, Traverse City is perfect for those who crave well-deserved rest and relaxation, and those who are looking for activities that satisfy their need to explore. Respect the natural landscape with our hiking and biking trails. Connect with loved ones at one of the vineyards or in the vibrant downtown. Celebrate the big moments in life as well as the small ones. Traverse City – exactly where you should be.
Muskegon
Lakeshore Museum Center
Step back in time with our 7-Day History Pass! The Lakeshore Museum Center offers a 7-Day Pass good for admission as many times as you’d like to all five of their sites including: the Muskegon Museum of History and Science, Muskegon Heritage Museum of Business and Industry, Hackley & Hume Historic Site, Fire Barn Museum, and the Scolnik House of the Depression Era. Experience it all in Downtown Muskegon. For more information, visit lakeshoremuseum.org
