We all know Michigan is a beautiful state. From their wineries to the Upper Peninsula, its beauty is hard to match. However, to really see Michigan, you need to head off the beaten path. Rather than the hitting the spots that everyone knows about, head off the beaten path to find a world you never imagined could be in Michigan.
Off the Beaten Path is far More Amazing
Everybody and their brother knows that Michigan is the wine country of the Midwest. Many people visit the numerous vineyards and tastings that are offered when they visit Michigan, but if you head off the beaten path, you’ll find so much more.
[tweetthis]DYK Kitch-iti-kipi is Michigan’s largest freshwater spring? #travel[/tweetthis]
Kitch-iti-kipi, Manistique
Kitch-iti-kipi is Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. Native Americans called it the “Mirror of Heaven”, and it’s easy to see why. It’s gorgeous waters are a clear aquamarine that you’d expect to find in the Caribbean, not in Michigan.
Torch Lake
Situated near Torch Lake Township, Alden, and Milton Township, Torch lake is one of the most beautiful bodies of water you’ll find in Michigan. Its crystal clear waters remind one of a gorgeous day on the gulf, which runs counterpoint to its rustic cabins and docks.
[tweetthis]What song is the Old Mariner Church in Detroit immortalized in? #travel[/tweetthis]
Old Mariner Church, Detroit
Located just outside of the Detroit-Windsor tunnel, this 170 year old church owes its fame to Gordon Lightfoot’s mentioning of it in “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald”. This gorgeous, gray stone church looks more like a castle than a place of worship. It even has a tower.
Arcadia Dunes
Arcadia Dunes are the perfect place for any nature lover to get off the beaten path. It’s beautiful sandy beaches, and crisp water press hard against beautiful, tree populated dunes.
Donckers, Marquette
Located in Marquette Michigan, this over a century old establishment is the perfect place to grab breakfast and lunch, and when you’re finished you can grab any number of delicious candies and treats for desserts. They’re all hand crafted at Donckers.
Ocqueoc Falls
Heading off the beaten path will lead you to these beautiful falls, located near Millersburg, Bismarck Township. Although not very large, these are the only falls in the Lower Peninsula, and it’s a lovely sight to behold.
Old Town Lansing
You may not think of Lansing, when you think of Michigan travel, but that’s what makes going off the beaten path so great. Old Town Lansing is a charming spot with a little something for everyone. It has a number of galleries, restaurants, and live music.
Off the Beaten Path is the Path to Travel in Michigan
Michigan is a gorgeous place, and while many spots are know, many more are less frequented by tourists. Heading off the beaten path will lead you to places of unimaginable beauty that you never knew existed. So if you’re going to Michigan, head off the beaten path and discover the real beauty to be found in the state.
I’ve heard so much about Arcadia Dunes. I never got to visit though when I lived in the state.
Thanks for your comment. I am hoping to check the dunes out this year myself. I will let you know what I think if I get there.
That sounds like a fun area to visit with the family! Sounds like there is a ton to do there.
Wow are you still live in Michigan and I still haven’t heard of any of these places. It is obvious there’s a lot more to explore Michigan yet.
My husband and I moved to Northern Michigan almost two years ago and I must say it is a BEAUTIFUL state! Torch Lake is a really fun place to visit and I really agree that the water is beautiful! Have you been to Sleeping Bear Dunes?
Lake Michigan was always a fun retreat as a kid. I can remember pushing my sisters down the dunes and digging sand out for hours! I would love to check out Mirror of Heaven though! ~MS for Kelli @ 3 Boys & a Dog!
I want to visit the Ocqueoc Falls. I’m also a big nature lover and I highly appreciate places like this.
I never been in Michigan but this is one of the beautiful place. I wanted to go there if i have a chance
If I get to visit Michigan, I’d love to visit the Ocqueoc Falls and Torch Lake first. I am just amazed at bodies of water.
I actually never been to Michigan, but my best friend of 15 years lives there. He’s always inviting me to visit! Maybe someday.
This looks like a great place to visit. I would love to go one day with my family.
That sounds like fun places to visit with the whole family! So much to do!
These sound like beautiful places to visit in Michigan, I will have to check them out as soon as I get the chance to travel this summer.
I have never heard much about Michigan and so this was an eye opener for me. Thanks for sharing the not so heard of!
Beautiful pictures! I have never visisted here but the places you have noted look fantastic and perfect for a family travel!
This post especially interests me because I used to live in Michigan, and still visit it. I haven’t come across any of these places yet. I would like to check out Lansing more.
Oh yeah, old town Lansing! I still have to check some of these places, there’s still more to discover in Michigan. I live here. 🙂