Your Guide to America's Third Coast: Exploring Michigan's Great Lakes

Everyone knows about the West Coast and East Coast of the United States, but did you know the Great Lakes region is often referred to as the Third Coast? Michigan boasts the longest freshwater shoreline in the world, with 3,288 miles of coast shared among four of the five Great Lakes. Discover the beauty of Michigan's beaches and attractions in our guide below!

Top Lake Michigan Vacation Spots

Petoskey: A Coastal Gem

Located near the northernmost point of Michigan's lower peninsula and a short drive from the Mackinac Bridge, Petoskey is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can enjoy activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, biking, and hiking.

Petoskey is also famous for its unique Petoskey stones, fossilized coral formed by ancient glaciers. These stones can be found along Lake Michigan's coastline, making it a must-visit for geology lovers.

Downtown Petoskey offers a vibrant atmosphere with over 170 shops and restaurants in the historic Gaslight District, featuring charming, converted homes.

Where to Stay:

• Jellystone Park™ Petoskey: A family-friendly resort offering affordable lodging options.
• Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor: A gated luxury resort with pull-through RV sites and top-notch amenities.

Traverse City: A Wine Lover's Paradise

Situated on Michigan's northwestern coast along Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and lively downtown scene. The area is also celebrated for its vineyards and breweries.

Explore Leelanau Peninsula for the best wine tasting experiences, including a visit to Mari Vineyards, where you can sample wine made from 100% estate-grown grapes.

Relax on the local beaches, with Bryant Park Beach being an excellent spot for sunbathing and swimming in Lake Michigan.

Ludington: A Family Favorite

Just under two hours south of Traverse City, Ludington is a charming coastal town that attracts vacationers year-round. For the ultimate beach experience, visit Ludington State Park Beach, where you can enjoy miles of sandy shoreline.

After a day of fun in the sun, treat yourself to ice cream at House of Flavors, a local favorite. For dining and entertainment, check out STIX, which features an indoor dining area, bowling alley, and an outdoor beer garden.

Silver Lake: Adventure Awaits

Just south of Ludington, Silver Lake is surrounded by towering sand dunes and offers thrilling outdoor activities. Explore the Silver Lake State Park Off-Road Vehicle Area, one of the best off-road parks in the country. Rent a dune buggy from Silver Lake Buggy Rentals or hike through the scenic trails.

At the end of your day, unwind at Sun Retreats Silver Lake, featuring a playground, hot tub, pool, and volleyball courts.

Explore Michigan Beyond the Coast

While the Great Lakes are stunning, Michigan has much more to offer. Here are some honorable mentions:

Grand Rapids: Beer City USA

Grand Rapids has earned the title of Beer City USA with over 40 breweries. It's also a hub for art and entertainment, hosting the annual ArtPrize festival featuring large-scale art installations.

Where to Stay

Sun Retreats Gun Lake is a pet-friendly resort just south of Grand Rapids, offering amenities like a pool, hot tub, arcade, and clubhouse.

Metro Detroit: A Thriving Metro Area

Metro Detroit encompasses several vibrant cities like Ferndale and Royal Oak, known for their shopping, entertainment, and dining options.

Where to Stay

Sun Outdoors Kensington Valley is located just outside Metro Detroit, providing a peaceful escape with fishing, swimming, and recreational activities.

Start Planning Your Michigan Vacation!

The destinations in our guide are just the beginning of what Michigan has to offer. Whether you're soaking up the sun on Lake Michigan's beaches or exploring the vibrant cities and towns, you'll find plenty to love about this stunning region. Plan your trip to America's Third Coast today, and make Michigan vacations an annual tradition!

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