Scenic Routes to Traverse Michigan - Brighton Township to Grand Rapids

Michigan boasts destinations that offer outdoor activities, natural vistas, and rich cultural heritage. And when it comes to road trips, Michigan offers some pretty charming routes to contribute to the overall experience. Whether you are a seasoned Michiganian or visiting for the first time, you do not want to miss the drive between Brighton Township and Grand Rapids. In this article, we will explore some of the routes you can take to travel from Brighton Township to Grand Rapids, including the distance and time it takes to travel along each of them.

Distance and Time

The distance between Brighton Township and Grand Rapids is approximately 126 miles, which amounts to approximately 2 hours of drive time on I-96 W. However, the scenic route can take longer, but it is well worth it.

Route 1: I-96 W

This is the quickest and most straightforward route to travel between Brighton Township and Grand Rapids. The route mostly follows I-96 W, and it is action-packed with a series of delightful towns in between. The towns of Lansing, Grand Ledge, and Ionia make excellent pit-stops to explore, from visiting the museums, walking through riverside parks, and sampling nibbles from fantastic restaurants.

Route 2: Grand River Avenue

The long and winding Grand River Avenue follows the curves of the old Grand River between Brighton Township and Grand Rapids. The route takes approximately 150 miles to traverse, with detours into the small towns of Eaton Rapids, Portland, and Saranac. It may add some extra time to your journey, but the drive is scenic, with charming backstreets, farmland plots, and cozy settlements. You can stop at Cider Mills, antique shops, and small eateries to relax and blend in with the locals.

Route 3: M-179

Drive towards the west of Grand Rapids via the M-179 for a memorable journey through Michigan's western Grand River Valley. The route follows along the Grand River and takes adventurers through the small towns of Wayland, Martin, and Yankee Springs. This route treats visitors with a host of beautiful stops, including the Gun Lake Casino, Yonder Way, Tanger Outlets, and the Bitter End Coffeehouse. The 75-mile route takes slightly more than 1 hour to travel, so you can drive and still enjoy the scenic spots without hurrying from one point to the next.

Additional Tips

When planning your road trip from Brighton Township to Grand Rapids, make sure to leave extra time for detours and stops along the way. Michigan is a nature lover's paradise with stunning parks, preserves, and lakes dotted throughout the landscape. To experience Michigan's hidden gems, find pullovers, take a walk, and take pictures. Moreover, Michigan is famous for its cider mills, so don't forget to stop and sample some of its delicious cider donuts or sample freshly pressed apple juice.

In conclusion, traveling between Brighton Township and Grand Rapids is relatively short and comfortable, and the array of routes you can take reflects a beautiful and culturally rich Michigan. Regardless of the route you decide to take, remember to take it easy and enjoy the journey. Plan your next trip to Michigan, and have an adventure-filled journey.