Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Charlotte, MI and Saint Clair Shores, MI
Are you planning a road trip between Charlotte and Saint Clair Shores in Michigan? If so, don't miss out on some amazing sights and experiences along the way! Here is a list of the top five places to visit that will make your trip truly unforgettable.
Milford, MI: The Halfway Point
Located halfway between Charlotte and Saint Clair Shores, Milford, MI is the perfect pit stop to stretch your legs and take a break from driving. The town has a charming downtown area, filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and a historic cinema. Take a stroll on the Huron River Trail for some beautiful views of nature, or enjoy a cup of coffee at Proving Grounds Coffee and Ice Cream - a beloved local spot that makes their own ice cream in-house!
1. Frankenmuth, MI: The Little Bavaria
Known as "The Little Bavaria" of Michigan, Frankenmuth is a charming Bavarian-style town located off I-75. The downtown area is filled with Bavarian-style storefronts, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture. Don't miss a visit to Bronner's Christmas Wonderland - the world's largest Christmas store - or enjoy a delicious chicken dinner at the famous Zehnder's Restaurant. If you're feeling adventurous, head to the Frankenmuth Adventure Park for some outdoor fun, including a zipline and ropes course.
2. Traverse City, MI: The Cherry Capital
Located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan's Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is a hub for outdoor recreation, dining, and entertainment. Known as the "Cherry Capital", the town boasts numerous cherry orchards and hosts the National Cherry Festival every year in July. Take a stroll on the historic Front Street, filled with boutique shops and restaurants, or visit the Grand Traverse Bay for some water activities, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Don't miss a visit to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - a stunningly beautiful natural area just a short drive from Traverse City.
3. Mackinac Island, MI: The Jewel of Michigan
Accessible only by ferry, Mackinac Island is a truly unique destination that will transport you back in time. The island is famous for its lack of cars - visitors must either walk, bike, or take a horse and carriage - as well as its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. Take a walk around the perimeter of the island to take in some truly breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, or indulge in some of the island's famous fudge. Don't miss a visit to the historic Grand Hotel - one of the oldest and most luxurious hotels in the country.
4. Sault Ste. Marie, MI: The Gateway to Canada
Located on the northeastern end of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Sault Ste. Marie is a historic town that serves as the gateway to Canada. Don't miss a visit to the Soo Locks - a fascinating engineering marvel that allows ships to traverse the 21-foot drop between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Take a stroll on the waterfront boardwalk for some beautiful views of the St. Mary's River, or visit the Museum Ship Valley Camp for a glimpse into the region's maritime history.
5. Detroit, MI: The Motor City
Located at the eastern end of the trip, Detroit is a city with a rich history and culture. Take a visit to the Detroit Institute of Arts for an impressive collection of art from around the world, or head to the Motown Museum for a glimpse into the city's famous musical legacy. Don't miss a visit to Belle Isle - a beautiful island park located in the middle of the Detroit River - or head to Ford Field for a Detroit Lions football game. And of course, no visit to Detroit would be complete without a sampling of the city's famous Coney dogs (a hot dog served with chili, onions, and mustard) at Lafayette Coney Island or American Coney Island.
Overall, a road trip between Charlotte and Saint Clair Shores in Michigan is a truly unique and exciting experience. From the charming towns and beautiful natural areas to the vibrant city of Detroit, there is something for everyone to enjoy along the way. Don't miss out on these top five places to visit for a trip you'll never forget!