The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Alpena to Manistee, Michigan

Do you love hitting the open road and exploring new places? There’s nothing quite like a road trip to clear your head and provide a change of scenery. If you’re looking for a scenic route in Michigan, the drive from Alpena to Manistee is worth considering. Along the way, you can soak up beautiful views of Lake Michigan, forests, and charming small towns.

Are you ready for an adventure? Here are the top places to see when driving from Alpena to Manistee:

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

As you head out of Alpena, make sure to stop by Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. This is a great place to explore if you’re a history or diving enthusiast. The marine sanctuary has over 200 shipwrecks in its boundary, making it a unique place to experience maritime history. There are also several dive sites where you can explore the sunken ships, including the Joseph S. Fay and the E.M. Clark.

Harrisville State Park

About an hour’s drive from Alpena, you will find Harrisville State Park. Here you can take in the stunning views of Lake Huron while playing volleyball, swimming, or fishing. There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore in the park. Plus, there are several campsites and cabins available for booking if you want to extend your stay.

Traverse City

As you make your way west, be sure to stop by Traverse City. This lakeside town is known for its vineyards, cherry orchards, and sandy beaches. Traverse City is an excellent destination for foodies, with plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve local and seasonal fare. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Old Mission Peninsula, a narrow strip of land that juts out into Grand Traverse Bay.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

One of the most popular attractions in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This sprawling national park stretches along Lake Michigan and includes over 70,000 acres of sand dunes, forests, and beaches. Visitors can hike, bike, paddle, or swim in the park, or take a scenic drive along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive to take in the views. The park is home to several campgrounds, so you can extend your stay and experience the great outdoors.

Manistee River Trail

As you reach Manistee, take a break from the car and stretch your legs on the Manistee River Trail. This 11-mile hiking trail winds through the forest, along the Manistee River and offers incredible scenic views. It's one of the best trails for hikers and backpackers who want to experience the Michigan wilderness. There are several campsites along the trail, so you can take your time and explore the surrounding area.

Whether you’re a Michigander or just visiting this beautiful state, the drive from Alpena to Manistee offers a range of natural beauty and small-town charm. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road for an unforgettable adventure.

Conclusion

Michigan has plenty of scenic drives, but the route from Alpena to Manistee is definitely one of the best. As you make your way from one charming town to the next, you'll experience breathtaking views of forests, lakes, and sand dunes. The stops along the way, including Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Harrisville State Park and Manistee River Trail, offer something for everyone. This road trip is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who want to escape into nature and create lasting memories. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an adventure and explore the best of Michigan on this scenic drive.