Things To Do

Looking for reasons to volunteer at an animal shelter? It can be rewarding to look after dogs and cats who need care while also helping out your community. Here are a few other reasons to volunteer.

It’s Turkey Trot time in Michigan. These holiday races offer runners of all levels a chance to get outside and get moving. They offer a great way for everyone to have fun and shed calories in the weeks leading up to — and in some cases on — Thanksgiving!

More than 486,000 veterans of the United States Armed Forces call Michigan their home. Events and parades are happening all over Michigan in 2025, including places like Detroit, Grand Rapids, Augusta, Brighton, Oceana and more.

This must-see destination is located just outside Paradise and encompasses nearly 50,000 acres. Here, you can visit waterfalls, hike trails, camp overnight and take part in countless seasonal activities.

Michigan is home to some of the most creative, elaborate and downright horrifying haunted houses in the country. Here are 15 of the best!

Are you looking for an outdoor adventure under the night sky? Michigan is home to numerous dark sky parks perfect for stargazing and viewing the northern lights.

Michigan gets pretty cold during winter months, but it doesn’t mean you can stop exercising. Check out these 10 places to get your 10,000 steps in indoors.

From paddling along the water to wandering wooded trails, the Au Sable River offers endless opportunities for visitors looking to enjoy Michigan’s natural beauty.

Established in 1891, the Eastern Market is known as a time-honored Detroit tradition due to its vibrant blend of community, culture and commerce. Learn more about what the Eastern Market has to offer—and why it’s the perfect spot to fuel your body and recharge this season.

Pictured Rocks is open year-round and offers outdoor activities for every season, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers, no matter the time of year.

Have you added the Michigan Tunnel of Trees to your bucket list yet? It's a must-see for Michiganians looking to unplug, slow down and immerse themselves in the state’s natural beauty.

In health care, hands are important. Health care providers use their hands to provide the essential services of preventive care and treatment. That’s why you’ll see a collage of hands in the window of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan office in Grand Rapids at ArtPrize this year.

Whether you want to stroll around the bustling downtown shops and cafes or take a peaceful, scenic hike, Petoskey and Charlevoix have you covered.

Fall is a wonderful time of year, filled with crisp air, beautiful foliage and plenty of festivals across the state of Michigan. Here are five fall festivals perfect for the whole family to enjoy:

Access to beaches and waterfront spaces is improving across Michigan as state parks and city beaches become places that people of all abilities can navigate.

If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Grand Haven might be the perfect place. This cute town located on the eastern part of Lake Michigan has an abundance of activities to do.

St. Joe is home to sugar-sand beaches, a giant splash pad and its landmark Silver Beach Carousel. Here are five things to do in St. Joseph before the summer winds down.

Every summer, the Perseid meteor showers grace the night skies above Michigan. Learn more about this celestial display and the best places and times to check them out in Michigan.

Take a step back in time and immerse yourself in more than 300 years of artifacts, exhibits and pivotal moments in American history at the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village.

The Mackinac Bridge Walk started in 1958 with 68 people. Now, as many as 60,000 people flock to Mackinaw City and St. Ignace to walk or run the bridge as the sun rises over Mackinac and Round islands.

The Dream Cruise can be a grind if you’re not prepared. Read these packing tips, nearby restaurants, parking options and best viewing spots.

Here is a list of five under-the-radar lakes from the Upper Peninsula to the thumb where you can spend a day of boating, paddle-boarding or kayaking.

Whether it’s a scoop in a dish or cone, some ice cream flavors just scream Michigan.

This summer, take your family on a trip to see the amazing views, forested trails and freshwater lakes to experience this part of our beautiful state.

Turnip Rock in Lake Huron is a gravity defying rock formation that got its turnip-like shape from gradual erosion caused by waves breaking down its soft, limestone stack.

The summer is county fair season in Michigan! These events are always a great way to celebrate community traditions. Many of the largest ones kick off in mid-July. Here are 20 of the most prominent upcoming county fairs in Michigan.

With stunning architecture and one of the most significant art collections in the country, it’s easy to see why this museum remains a cultural gem in Michigan.

There is plenty to do, ranging from activities on the water and on land. If you’re interested in a trip to the beautiful Great Lakes Bay region, here are recommendations on what to do in the area.

Sitting on the banks of the Grand River, the city is filled with vibrant art scenes, culture and green spaces. Here are our top recommendations of things to do.

Located at the tip of the Thumb, Port Austin a spot full of small-town charm and big adventure. Whether you’re young or just young at heart, there’s fun waiting for everyone here.

Are you looking for the best fireworks in Michigan in 2025? There are destination fireworks displays and festivals all over the state.

From the upper peninsula all the way down to Jackson, Michigan is dripping with iconic ice cream parlors. How many of these classic Michigan ice cream spots have you tried?

The park in the Thumb is home to Native American carvings believed to be 1,400 years old.

For many families, summer is a time of relaxation and freedom from the rigid structure of the school year. But for children with learning disabilities, that freedom can lead to frustration or lost progress if not balanced with thoughtful structure and purposeful activities.

The gardens cover 158 acres of land and offer a spread of flowers, plants and sculptures.

Michigan is home to many zoos, petting zoos, refuges and specialty animal conservancies that are exciting, fun and educational experiences for the whole family. We’ve compiled some of the best zoos and conservatories from across the state.

Roller coasters are a favorite among thrill-seekers. Learn how the loops, launches and drops affect our bodies.

Michigan is home to several popular farmer’s markets across the state. Each offers a unique set of produce and hand-crafted goods specific to the local farms and artisans native to the area. These farmers’ markets are worth the road trip.

Are you looking for a getaway filled with waterfront views, charming small towns and outdoor adventures? On the southeastern tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Les Cheneaux Islands are an archipelago of 36 small islands nestled along Lake Huron’s scenic shoreline.

Michigan has an abundance of beautiful spots spread out across both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. In the springtime, try heading to the corner of Northern Michigan known as the Cherry Capital of the World.

When late April arrives, so does morel mushroom season in Michigan. Before you get outdoors and start hunting, give this comprehensive guide a read.

Are you looking for an off-the-grid adventure? Isle Royale National Park is an archipelago in Lake Superior with more than 400 islands. Whether you're hiking through forests, paddling past rocky cliffs or enjoying the great outdoors, a trip to this national park is truly a Michigan bucket list item.

These 50 local Black-owned restaurants — including a few new ones that opened in 2024 — should be on your radar this year. How many have you eaten at?

How do you know you’re from The Mitten State? Maybe it’s because you know just how to celebrate Valentine’s Day with fun, friends - and a little bit of love.

If you are looking for an exciting outdoor activity and exercise to enjoy in the beautiful Michigan winter wonderland, you may want to look into ice climbing. Each winter, ice climbers both local to the Upper Peninsula and those that travel for the ice picking locations in the UP scale frozen surfaces that form in winter.

During the winter, Michigan is known for its world-class ice fishing. Here are 10 lakes that are anglers’ favorites.

If you’re looking for a stunning wintertime spectacle, check out some of the frozen lighthouses on Lake Michigan this winter. Frozen lighthouses typically occur from November through January.

The thrill of whooshing down a sledding hill is fun for all ages. But sledding comes with risks, too.

A Healthier Michigan's 2024 Foodie Focus series in 2024 highlighted seven Detroit area restaurants that prioritized clean eating. Here's where they are and what they are about.

If you don’t enjoy the taste of water, you might find yourself turning to soda, juice, energy drinks and other beverages that contain a lot of added sugar. Here are some suggestions to increase your water intake.

Celebrate the Jewish “festival of lights” by attending one or more of these five Hanukkah celebrations happening in or around Detroit.

Looking for things to do during the kids' winter break? These indoor and outdoor ideas should ignite the holiday spirit in the whole family.

Ready to save money and go easy on the Earth this season? Buy your friends and family sustainable gifts.

Keep the festive decorating tradition alive with these creative candy alternatives that allow you to maintain a healthier holiday for the whole family. These ideas will not only help you curb candy cravings, but they will also allow you to stand out in your next gingerbread decorating contest.

Every stuffed pepper option at the Detroit Pepper Company starts off meat-free. Guests have the option to add cheese or meat to any of the signature stuffed peppers or entrées found on the East Detroit fast casual restaurant's menu.

Most people who spend the holidays alone feel more lonely than usual and may struggle to enjoy the festive time of year. Here are some tips on how to get through the holidays alone or without family around.

Michigan has a long history with Native American communities and traditions. There are 12 federally recognized tribes of Indigenous peoples in Michigan. Many of the state’s natural wonders and historical sites have a history within the Native American cultures predating the state of Michigan.

November is Native American Heritage Month. These Michigan sites and landmarks celebrate the rich and important history of Native Americans. Check out this list of Native American-owned businesses to support as well.

Locals and out-of-towners alike form a line out the door at First Bite each weekend. The breakfast and lunch restaurant's fresh, organic offerings mesh well with anyone's diet, and is popular among vegans and vegetarians.

As the seasons start to change, make it a goal to keep your kids active and outside. Michigan fall is a beautiful time to get your kids involved in nature while letting them be creative and hands-on.

Now that I’m in my 20s, I’ve learned to appreciate the simplicity of getting together with my friends and family and enjoying each other’s company over a good meal. But when it comes down to it, I’m still a kid at heart. Why stop having themed parties when you’re an adult?

As summer gives way to fall, it’s time for a visit to a cider mill to enjoy apple picking, apple cider and donuts.

Grabbing photos of fall foliage here in Michigan makes for a fantastic October activity. So, where are the best places in the state to capture the perfect fall images?

Porcupine Mountains State Park is Michigan’s largest state park and a popular fall-weather destination for camping, hiking and fishing. Covering more than 60,000 acres along the Lake Superior shoreline, this vast wilderness area is a haven for nature lovers.

Summertown Fresh Bar's additive-free smoothies and juices, and ever-expanding healthy breakfast and lunch programs, have endeared the restaurant to its Corktown neighbors since 2023.

The fall season is an exciting and nostalgic time for festive activities with family and friends. As leaves begin to change colors and create beautiful red and orange scenery, it’s a perfect time to engage in the season's traditions like pumpkin patches, apple picking, tractor rides and haunted houses. Here are nine farms in Michigan to add to your bucket list this fall.

You can see artists' work in a large window at the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan office at the Steketee’s Building, 86 Monroe Center St. NW, in downtown Grand Rapids. ArtPrize is Sept. 13-Sept. 28.

Paddlers are welcome to join an epic adventure in September. The Paddle Antrim Festival celebrates the waterways and local communities of Northern Michigan Sept. 13-14. The festival includes community events and a non-competitive two-day paddling event from Ellsworth to Elk Rapids on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail.

Chartreuse was ahead of the "farm to table" curve when it opened in 2015. Clean, quality food, innovative dishes and an emphasis on hospitality have made it one of the most successful "new" restaurants to open in Detroit in the past decade.

Michigan is known for its beautiful Great Lakes, scenic views and vibrant cities, but it also has a rich history of folklore. These stories, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into Michigan's mysterious side. Here are some of the places where Michigan’s most iconic myths, legends and spooky stories originated to get you ready for the Fall season

Located in Midland, the Dow Gardens is 110 acres of tall trees, running water, and beautiful blooming flowers. The botanical garden is the perfect place to take a day trip to disconnect from the world and take a nature walk.

This picturesque lakeshore village sits at the foothills of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Going to the beach is not only fun, but a great way to spend time outside and connect to the natural sights and sounds of an inland lake or one of the Great Lakes. The best way to make sure your beach day is a success is to be prepared. We’ve compiled a list of must-haves to include in your beach bag.

There are many sights to see in the state of Michigan from shipwrecks to beaches to lighthouses. Historic heritage route US-23 features those sights and more while showing the beauty of Lake Huron and national forests. We have compiled a list of stops along US-23 to add to your itinerary this summer.

From Traverse City to Alpena and points in between, the northern half of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula is home to wonderful vacation destinations and plenty of natural beauty to explore. If you’re planning to be in the area, make a point to spend a day on foot, checking out some of the best hiking trails in Michigan.

Check out some of the Michigan farms that are hosting sunflower festivals this summer and fall.

Converting to a vegan diet was a gamechanger for Quiana Rice's health. The lifestyle change set her on a career path and mission to help others choose cleaner ingredients and develop healthier cooking and eating habits.

Whether you’re looking to escape to a natural setting or enjoy a quick hike on your lunch break, southeast Michigan has plenty of great trails to discover. Here are some ideas to get you going on your next hiking adventure.

Pack up some discs, grab some water and check out these popular disc golf courses across Michigan.

If you’re looking for a getaway that combines natural beauty, adventure, and local charm, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is your go-to spot. From hiking through dunes and forests to relaxing on serene beaches, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers an experience for everyone to enjoy.

Every July, one of the nation’s largest art festivals is right here in Michigan. The Ann Arbor Art Fair is an exciting, three-day festival that brings half a million visitors to Ann Arbor. The fair takes up 30 blocks of Ann Arbor and features more than 1,000 artists.

Michigan is known for its gorgeous water, woods, and natural beauty, as well as its role in the Great Lakes regional and national history. There are several National Parks and national-designated parks and trails in Michigan. We’ve listed them below with details for you to add to your summer itinerary or Michigan bucket list.

Breadless uses super-green vegetables like Swiss chard and kale to conceal savory, chef-inspired sandwich recipes. The fast casual restaurant has become a much-needed health food option in Detroit.

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African History is putting on its 41st annual African World Festival, July 12 to 14. Come celebrate African beauty, strength, and culture at Hart Plaza, Detroit. This three-day festival features more than 100 vendors, local and international performers, and countless opportunities for family fun.

Art In The Park will host more than 400 artists from around the United States for its 44th summer. The fair includes art in a wide variety of mediums such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, fiber, glass, woodwork, photography, folk art and more. From practical to surreal, whimsical to extravagant, there is bound to be something for everyone.

This summer, there are a lot of opportunities for purchasing second-hand items. Flea markets are a perfect place to find second-hand clothing, vintage furniture items, or books you’ve been dying to read. Flea markets are also a great way to consider your carbon footprint and reconsider your use of fast fashion.

Hot air balloons offer the chance to see the breathtaking sight of different colors flying through the sky and learn about the physics of the balloons. There are plenty of opportunities across the state to see these spectacles. We have a list of a few different locations and dates where you can see a hot air balloon festival in Michigan.

Ready to mark the longest day of the year? Stick with us for tips on how to celebrate the summer solstice.

Every year it can be a challenge to come up with something new and exciting to celebrate the father figure in your life. What to do for a man who has done so much for you? We’re here to help you come up with ideas to honor the father figure in your life.

The freezer aisle of your favorite grocery stores is filled with different flavored popsicles sure to make you cool off a bit. However, in those freezers full of popsicles there are a lot of added sugars, colors, high fructose corn syrup, and preservatives. Learn some healthy fresh-fruit popsicle recipe to make at home.

Lavender begins to bloom in Michigan early-to-mid June and continues through mid-August. Visiting these vibrant, purple-lined fields are sure to create magical memories for the whole family.

Metro Detroiters can meaningfully celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in Detroit in a multitude of ways, from festivals to special dinners to educational events.

Festivals, parades and family-friendly activities are all on tap as Pride events fill up the summer calendar across Michigan in 2024.

Beef from Stoney Grove Farm in Rodney. Whitefish caught in Lake Erie. Fresh tomatoes from Good Stead Farm in Hope. Michigan's incredible farming community is highlighted in every dish at Aster.

Do you have plans this Memorial Day Weekend? Stop by one of the many parades and celebrations happening all over Michigan. Find a Memorial Day celebration near you.

The Food Focus series is coming to AHM this spring. Each month we'll chat with different restaurant owners in Michigan who prioritizes clean ingredients, sustainability or just general healthy eating. Let's dig in!

Saginaw native Sammie Telder doesn’t miss many pitches, swings or catches during the 162-game regular season. She can't wait to see how her Tigers perform this year.

An exciting spring break can be found right here in Michigan. Here are six destinations to get you started.

This spring, make sure you make time to get outside and play. And there’s nothing that says springtime fun like the bevy of Michigan festivals you can put on your calendar.