Top Places to See When Driving From Auburn Hills, Michigan to Grand Rapids, Michigan

Driving through Michigan is always an adventure, and there is no shortage of picturesque destinations for sightseeing. Whether you're road-tripping with friends or family, there's something for everyone in this midwestern state. As you travel west from Auburn Hills to Grand Rapids, there are plenty of places to see and things to do. Here are some of the top destinations to add to your itinerary!

1. Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary

Located just outside of Pontiac, the Orchard Lake Nature Sanctuary is a great place to stop and stretch your legs on your journey. This 50-acre forested preserve is home to over 10 miles of hiking trails, allowing you to get up close and personal with nature. Take a walk through the forest and see if you can spot any of the local flora and fauna, such as beavers, foxes, and deer. There are also picnic areas where you can stop for a bite to eat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

2. Grand Haven State Park

If you’re looking for a beach destination, Grand Haven State Park is a picture-perfect location for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation. The park is located on the shore of Lake Michigan and features sandy beaches, clear water, and dunes, making it a great spot for a summertime outing. If you want to do more than just sunbathe, there's also a variety of activities available, including volleyball, fishing, and paddle-boarding. And when hunger strikes, there are plenty of nearby restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

3. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Located in Grand Rapids, the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a must-see destination for art lovers. The park features more than 300 acres of greenery, as well as dozens of sculptures from around the world. There's even an indoor garden that showcases plants and flowers from all over the planet. The children's garden is a fun experience for kids of all ages, and there are also various events and art exhibitions held throughout the year.

4. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a beautiful area that's located around three hours from Grand Rapids. It's a bit of a drive, but well worth the trip as it offers otherworldly landscapes. The Lakeshore’s most famous landmark is the Dune Climb, which is an enormous sand mountain that you can climb up and run down. Creative hikers go on Sandboarding, which is a unique activity similar to snowboarding. You should also stop by the Glen Haven General Store, which was built in the 1920s, and stock up on some snacks for the drive back.

5. Holland State Park

Holland State Park is located on Lake Michigan and offers an extraordinary experience for travelers. This hidden gem offers clear water, sandy beaches, and a wide range of activities like paddle-boarding, fishing, and swimming. The park also features campgrounds, picnic areas with barbeque grills, and hiking trails that would make any nature lover happy. When you want to grab a bite to eat, the downtown area is perfect, and all the places are within walking distance.

Conclusion

Michigan has plenty to offer, and this list highlights just a few of the most popular destinations to add to your road trip itinerary. Each one has something unique to offer travelers. So get out there, hit the road, and make some memories!