Michigan Outdoors

Butterflies at Frederik Meijer Gardens
Michigan Outdoors

6 Michigan Cities for a Fun, Low-Cost Spring Break Trip

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

Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Ice Tree in Gaylord

Michigan is home to many winter marvels, including the “world’s largest ice tree” in Gaylord.

A mixed race senior couple joyfully embrace a snow shower while out for a walk in the forest. They are wearing snowshoes and warm clothing. The woman has her arms raised and is looking up at the falling snowflakes. The woman's husband is in the background walking towards her. He is smiling and watching her joyous display.
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan-Themed Valentine’s Day Ideas 

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.

Michigan Outdoors

Get to Know Michigan’s Woody the Woodchuck Ahead of Groundhog Day

Woody the Woodchuck isn't just a Michigan legend; she's known nationwide. With a personality as big as her appetite, it's easy to see why Woody is such a treasure.

Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Ice Fishing

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

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Winter in Cadillac

There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the winter.

Photo of a smiling senior woman walking her dog outdoors along a foot path
Michigan Outdoors

Why Walking Your Dog is Healthy for You, Too  

Did you know dog owners are 34% more likely to fit 150 minutes of walking into a week than non-dog owners? The benefits only begin there.

Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Biggest Sledding Hills in Michigan

If you love sledding, you’re in the right place. Here’s our list of favorite sledding hills across Michigan.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Winter in Tawas City

There’s a lot to discover in this northeastern Michigan community during the winter.

Michigan Outdoors

Sledding Hill Safety Tips

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

Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Great Lakes Ice Formations

The Great Lakes delivers some spectacular ice formations during the winters. Here’s what to look for.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Winter in Fenton

There’s a lot to discover in this Mid-Michigan community during the winter.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Winter in Munising

There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the winter.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Winter in Rochester

There’s a lot to discover in this Southeastern Michigan community during the winter.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Winter in Spring Lake

There’s a lot to discover in this West Michigan community during the winter.

Michigan Outdoors

10 Family-Friendly Winter Break Activities in Metro 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.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Winter in St. Ignace

There’s a lot to discover in this community in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula during the winter.

Woman captures a photograph of another woman during the Grand Rapids World of Winter festival.
Michigan Outdoors

Winter Festivals in Michigan in 2024

Looking for festive winter events to attend? The Michigan winter festivals on this list take place between January and March of 2024.

Michigan Outdoors

Winter Break Activities in West Michigan

Step into a warm-water splash zone, join a museum mini camp, or skate away through a lighted forest trail. Winter Break activities are all about adventure. 

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do in This Winter in Traverse City

There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the winter.

Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Christmas Light Displays

One of the best Michigan winter activities is visiting one of the many extravagant Christmas light displays. Here are some of our favorites.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Bay City

There’s a lot to discover in this Mid-Michigan community during the fall.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Rogers City

There’s a lot to discover in this community along Michigan’s sunrise coast during the fall.

Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks

If you love ice skating, you’ll want to check out these outdoor ice skating rinks and enjoy this fun winter activity.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Three Oaks

There’s a lot to discover in this Southwest Michigan community during the fall.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Winter Things to Do in Michigan

Activities are easier to come by in the summer than in the winter. We know this. But exciting winter activities in Michigan aren't as limited as you may think. Here are five fun ideas.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Houghton

There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the fall. 

Michigan Outdoors

Turkey Trots Happening Across Michigan in 2023

Turkey Trots are a fun way to offset some of those calories from a Thanksgiving Day meal.

Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Islands: What are some of the most popular?

We all know Michigan’s most famous island, but it’s just one of hundreds along Michigan’s coasts.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Harbor Springs

There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the fall.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Northport

There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the fall.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Marquette

There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the fall.  

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Coldwater

There’s a lot to discover in this Southern Michigan community during the fall.

Lake Superior Chapel Beach in Autumn at Pictured Rocks
Michigan Outdoors

Beautiful Michigan: Top Picturesque Locations For Fall

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?

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Port Huron

Located along Michigan's Thumbcoast, Port Huron is a vibrant waterfront community.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Whitefish Point / Paradise

There’s a lot of natural beauty to explore in the Upper Peninsula community of Whitefish Point / Paradise.

Amazing Autumn scenery, forests with lake, Fall colors, Aerial view.
Michigan Outdoors

Peak Times for Fall Color Across Michigan

The beautiful orange, red, and yellow leaves of fall are almost here! Find out when you should plan your color tour to make the most of the autumn splendor.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Frankenmuth

This Mid-Michigan community is a popular destination for people who like to celebrate Bavarian traditions and Christmas year-round. 

Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Michigan Cider Mills

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

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Fall in Belleville

There’s a lot to discover in this lakeside community southwest of Detroit during the fall.

Michigan Bucket List: Apple Orchards to Explore This Fall 
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Apple Orchards to Explore This Fall 

Nothing says fall in Michigan like filling a bushel basket full of freshly-picked apples. If you want to put a U-pick day on your list this autumn, we can help.

Michigan Outdoors

Where to Find Adaptive Kayaking Launches

Adaptive kayak launches offer easy in and out designs for paddlers of all mobility levels. Here are some places to find them.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Summer in Three Rivers

From the arts and cultural events to recreational activities, there’s a lot to do in Three Rivers during the summer.

Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Summer in Grayling

With its prime location on the AuSable River, there are a lot of things to do in Grayling during the summer.

Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Eagle Harbor Lighthouse.
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Summer in Eagle Harbor 

There’s a lot to discover in this hidden gem on Keweenaw Peninsula during the summer.

Sand Point Lighthouse In Downtown Escanaba Michigan
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Summer in Escanaba 

There’s a lot to do in the port city of Escanaba during the summer.

Little girl picking blueberry
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: U-Pick Blueberry Farms 

Try a U-pick farm for your blueberries this year. It’s a fun way to get these healthy fruits.

Park Bench on the Bay
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do this Summer in Frankfort 

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

A woman weeds her garden.
Michigan Outdoors

Get Your Garden Ready for the Fall with These Tips 

Between weeding, relocating certain plants and testing soil, your garden needs a lot of maintenance at the end of the summer. These seven tips should help.

Olivia Durkee
Michigan Outdoors

Why I Started Hiking for Mental Clarity

Contributor and summer intern Olivia Durkee shares how hiking has helped her mental health and become an outlet for her stress.

Finding the Music
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Free Outdoor Concerts 

Bring a blanket, a camp chair and some snacks. It’s time for free summer concerts.

Turnip Rock near Port Austin Michigan
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do this Summer in Port Austin 

Port Austin is a laid-back harbor town that has a dark sky preserve and is a boat ride away from the famed Turnip Rock.

University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do this Summer in Ann Arbor 

Even during the summer when most classes are out, there’s always something going on in Ann Arbor.

Family Watching the Ball Game
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Minor League Baseball Parks 

Peanuts, popcorn and home runs. Who is ready to head to a ballgame?

Sunset on the beach
Michigan Outdoors

Hidden Michigan Beaches 

If you don’t like your beach time with a side of crowds and noise, check out these low-key beaches across Michigan.

Mackinaw Island Town View
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Summer on Mackinac Island

Michigan’s famed island is known for taking people back in time with its horse-and-carriage transportation and historic buildings.

Tranquil scene with Adirondack chairs looking over a lavender field with blue sky and white clouds in Michigan
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Where to Visit Lavender Farms 

Lavender lovers know these dainty blue-purple flowers have a heady scent. Choose one of these lavender farms to add to your Michigan bucket list this summer.

Two Girls Picking Cherries
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: U-Pick Cherry Farms 

Head to a local orchard and pick your own cherries this summer. They are a healthy, sweet or tart treat.

Traverse City Cherry Festival
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: National Cherry Festival in Traverse City

The National Cherry Festival in Traverse City is a summer bucket list event to celebrate one of Michigan's largest agricultural industries.

Grand Marais
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Summer in Grand Marais 

Grand Marais in the eastern Upper Peninsula sits along the south shore of Lake Superior and is a gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Sunset on Lake Michigan shot from the dunes of Saugatuck Michigan
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Best Local Beaches 

Pack a big towel, your suit, sunscreen and favorite pair of shades. It’s time to hit some great beaches.

Throughout the summer, beaches on lakes across the state are full of traveling tourists and locals.  However, it is important to know that not every beach in Michigan is dog friendly. 
Michigan Outdoors

Best Michigan Dog Beaches  

While not every Michigan beach is dog-friendly, there are many across the state that welcome dogs of all breeds and sizes. Here are five of them.

BrightonDNR
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Summer in Brighton 

From a seasonal waterpark in a lake to recreation areas that take hikers from hardwood forests to meadows, Brighton is a great place to get away from it all.

Family watching hot air balloons during a Michigan summer festival
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Summer Festivals to Put on Your Calendar

This summer, there’s something for everybody in this lineup of Michigan summer festivals that are a must-add to your bucket list.

River Staircase
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do in Oscoda This Summer 

From fishing or kayaking adventures on the famed Au Sable River to hiking trails or splashing in Lake Huron, Oscoda has an activity you’re sure to love.

Solstice Sundown at St. Joseph Lighthouses
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do in St. Joseph This Summer 

St. Joe is home to sugar-sand beaches, a giant splash pad and its landmark Silver Beach Carousel. Here are 5 things to do during a visit.

A young family has fun roasting marshmallows while camping.
Michigan Outdoors

The Do's and Don'ts of Camping

Camping in Michigan can be loads of fun, but it can also be a struggle if you’re not prepared. Keep this guide handy as you plan your trip.

Small girl with grandmother picking strawberries on the farm.
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: U-Pick Strawberry Farms 

Try a U-Pick farm for your strawberries this year. It’s a fun way to get these healthy fruits.

Michigan Hardwood Forest Reflection In Water
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Spring in Manistique  

Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Manistique is known for several tourism destinations from historical to recreational. 

A woman excitedly explores her local farmers market.
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan’s Best Farmers Markets

Michigan is home to roughly 300 farmers markets. Here are more than a half dozen of our favorites from around the state.

Couple mountain biking together
Michigan Outdoors

Mountain Bike Trails in Michigan 

Load up those knobby tires and try out these cool trails near you.

Yoga Meditation
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Spring in Mt. Pleasant  

Located in the middle of Michigan, Mt. Pleasant is home to Central Michigan University. If you are visiting Mount Pleasant, here are some things to do.

Hiking Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore In Michigan
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Hikes to Get Your 10,000 Steps In 

There are big health benefits to getting 10,000 daily steps. Here are some great places to do that with a view.

Alpena Drawbridge
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Spring in Alpena 

Known as the Sanctuary of the Great Lakes, the historic port city of Alpena sits nestled between a vast forest and Lake Huron’s picturesque Thunder Bay. 

Camping Yurt
Michigan Outdoors

Accessible Camp Sites and Lodges in Michigan

Camping with mobility challenges should not have to be difficult. Check out this statewide list of accessible camping and lodge spots.

Wooden Windmill in Holland Michigan
Michigan Outdoors

5 Things to Do This Spring in Holland  

A favorite Lake Michigan vacation spot, Holland was settled by the Dutch in the mid-1800s and is still known for its springtime tulips and beaches.

water trail
Michigan Outdoors

How to Enjoy Ludington’s New Accessible Water Trail 

It’s a short, protected route on calm water. Ludington State Park’s new accessible water trail is set to open this summer.

Father and son are traveling together
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Wildflower Hikes to Take This Spring 

Colorful wildflowers are a welcome sign of spring. Here are some hiking spots where you are sure to see them.

Smiling young friends using binoculars during a nature hike
Michigan Outdoors

Mental Health Benefits of Birding 

Spotting a warbler perched on a pine branch or a hawk soaring overhead can be thrilling. But birding also has mental health benefits.

Soo Locks in dusk
Michigan Outdoors

How to Get Your Steps in Near Michigan’s Soo Locks 

If you’re a freighter fan headed to the Soo Locks, check out these nearby trails to get your steps in.

Playing In The Park With Mum
Michigan Outdoors

Accessible and Inclusive Playgrounds Around the State 

Accessible and Inclusive Playgrounds Around the State

Vvolunteering, charity, cleaning, people and ecology concept - Mother and son volunteers with garbage bags cleaning area in park. Young volunteers cleaning up the forest together
Michigan Outdoors

Ways to Celebrate Earth Day Across Michigan 

Earth Day is approaching. How will you be celebrating our planet?

Cherry Blossom in Traverse City in Michigan
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Spring Bucket List: Cherry Blossoms in Traverse City

No need to fly to D.C., here's how to get your cherry blossom fix in Northern Michigan. Check out our list of Old Mission Peninsula drives and things to see.

birdwatching
Michigan Outdoors

Best Places to See Migrating Birds in Michigan 

The song of a red-winged blackbird is one of the first signs of spring. Here are some great places to see migrating birds in Michigan.

Rainbow Over Detroit Riverwalk
Michigan Outdoors

Urban Nature Trails in Michigan to Move Your Workout Outside 

Grab a pair of sunglasses and your best workout shoes. It’s time to move your next exercise session outdoors.

Arcadia
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Public Golf Courses 

Ready to break out your clubs? You’re not alone. Here are some popular public golf courses to check out across the state.

Couple Snowshoeing
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Bucket List: Snowshoeing Trails to Try 

Ready to head out on a snowshoeing adventure? Here are some bucket-list worthy trails to try across Michigan.

Winter mountain adventure. Young couple on a trail. Night blizzard
Michigan Outdoors

Winter Night Hikes Across Michigan 

Walking in the winter can be a hushed, beautiful experience. But what about winter night hikes? Those can be magical.

The UP Eben Ice Caves.
Michigan Outdoors

The Upper Peninsula’s Eben Ice Caves: Winter Hiking 101

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is full of surprises, including winter ice caves. Get helpful tips on how to hike properly in the winter.

Snowtubing
Michigan Outdoors

Michigan Winter Getaways 

Cold temperatures and snow create the landscape for a whole season of adventure. Here are some ideas for great Michigan winter getaways.

A woman and young boy snowshoe up a snow-covered hill.
Michigan Outdoors

5 Winter Sports to Try This Year 

You’re probably familiar with ice skating and skiing, but if those don’t move the needle for you, these other Michigan winter sport ideas should.

A person's first-person-view of the wintertime wilderness from the inside of a tent.
Michigan Outdoors

Cold Weather Camping: Tips and Essentials  

Packing the proper layers and a quality tent are crucial to any winter camping trip. So are these hacks. Are you prepared?

Bicycling in Fall. Urban concept.
Michigan Outdoors

New 60-Mile Bike Trail to Stretch from Michigan to Chicago 

The new Marquette Greenway will hug the bottom curve of Lake Michigan as it stretches between three states.

Cute sisters watching the stars together at home using a telescope, family and leisure concept
Michigan Outdoors

Meteor Showers to Watch for in November 

Grab a blanket, settle back and enjoy the skywatching scene. November has a few meteor showers ready to put on a show.

Ocqueoc Falls In The Lower Peninsula Of Michigan Is Handicapped Accessible
Michigan Outdoors

Spotlight on Ocqueoc Falls, One of Michigan’s Few Universally Accessible Waterfalls

Enjoying waterfalls should be something everyone can do. Michigan has a couple great accessible waterfall locations in the Upper and Lower peninsulas.

A sailboat rounds the breakwater near sunset on the longest day of the year by the Lighthouses at St. Joseph, Michigan with people fishing from and walking on the pier.
Michigan Outdoors

Squeeze the Last Bit of Summer Fun with These 5 Weekend Trips 

Feel like the opportunity for summer adventure is passing you by? Here’s how to squeeze the last bit of fun out of the season.

Do you know about Michigan's four species of bees, and the work they do to pollinate our flowers, fruits, and vegetables?
Michigan Outdoors

Different Types of Bees in Michigan

Do you know about the four species of bees, and the work they do to pollinate our flowers, fruits, and vegetables?

young man in a electric wheelchair fishing
Michigan Outdoors

Accessible Boat Launches, Fishing Spots Across Michigan 

Boating and fishing are popular pastimes in Michigan, and accessibility is driving improvements to fishing piers and boat launches across the state.

Detroit RiverWalk
Michigan Outdoors

4 Things to do on Detroit International RiverWalk, Named Country’s Best 

The Detroit International Riverwalk was recently named the country’s best river walk and is considered one of Detroit’s top attractions.

West Michigan cities like Holland, Ferrysburg and Fennville are home to some of the most beautiful, under-the-radar parks in the state.
Michigan Outdoors

6 West Michigan Parks You Need to Visit

West Michigan cities like Holland, Ferrysburg and Fennville are home to some of the most beautiful, under-the-radar parks in the state.

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