Summer in Michigan offers a wide variety of activities, from thrilling outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, all within a few hours of Eastern Michigan University's campus. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, a peaceful retreat, or a chance to immerse yourself in art and history, the Great Lakes State has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to visit and things to do in Michigan this summer.
Sand Dune Buggy Rides:
For those looking for a high-speed thrill, Michigan’s sand dunes are a perfect summer escape. Both Saugatuck (just under three hours away from campus) and Silver Lake (about an hour and a half away) offer sandy landscapes perfect for dune buggy rides. Saugatuck is a picturesque beach town with a charming, walkable downtown full of art galleries, boutiques and unique eateries. Silver Lake, located near a state park, offers not only stunning dunes but also a laid-back vibe with ice cream shops, miniature golf courses and playgrounds.
Traverse City:
Traverse City, a top “Up North” destination, is known for its beaches, wineries and small-town charm. Take a scenic walk through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, explore the local shops, or enjoy a wine tour. Also, from June 28–July 5, Traverse City hosts its 100th National Cherry Festival, during which you can enjoy rides, live concerts and local food vendors. As the “Cherry Capital of the World,” this week-long celebration is a must-see for visitors.
Drive-In Movies:
Only half an hour away from Ypsilanti, the Summer Drive-In series at the USA Hockey Arena provides evening fun all summer. Double feature events will run June 6–August 31. Tickets are $12 for adults and include two movies. The drive-in shows both new movies currently in theaters and old favorites. To see what is showing and to purchase tickets, visit the USA Hockey Arena's website.
Ann Arbor Art Fair:
For an artsy weekend close to home, the Ann Arbor Art Fair is a local favorite. From July 17-19, three different art fairs will span 30 city blocks, featuring a wide variety of artists and their work, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and photography. This fair, which has been a staple of Michigan culture for over 60 years, is a perfect summer outing for those interested in art, local food and community events. Check out the Art Fair's website for more details.
Michigan’s Adventure:
For the ultimate amusement experience, head to Michigan’s Adventure in Muskegon, just under a three-hour drive from campus. With over 60 rides and attractions across two parks, there’s something for everyone. From seven roller coasters to the family-friendly Snoopy-themed kids' park, there’s no shortage of fun. The WildWater Adventure Park offers wave pools, body slides and a “Funnel of Fear,” making it a great way to cool off in the summer heat. For more information, visit the Michigan's Adventure website.
Detroit Museums:
For some air-conditioned entertainment, consider visiting one of Detroit’s museums, less than an hour away from campus.
The Detroit Institute of Arts has been one of the country's biggest and best museums for over a century. Visitors can walk through the museum’s collection at their leisure, take a guided tour, visit a temporary exhibit, or attend a summer event. With their student ID, college students can visit for half the price!
The Michigan Science Center is a place for people of all ages to explore, create and learn through hands-on science. The Science Center features four theaters, including a planetarium, as well as the IMAX Dome Theater, the largest theater in the state of Michigan. Families can see nature documentaries, enjoy STEM features, or hear from speakers who are experts in their field. The Michigan Science Center has a rotating schedule of events, shows, programs and displays.
The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, just outside of Detroit, highlights some of history’s best innovators. With exhibits including model-T cars, trains, JFK’s limousine, the Rosa Parks bus, the Wright brothers’ airplane, race cars and more. The Henry Ford is a great place to discover the ideas and innovations of history. Just outside of the museum is Greenfield Village, an open-air village set to display the beginnings of America. The town includes a farm, train station, glass blowing factory, ceramics building, and even a baseball field with 1867-set games.
Zoos and Aquariums:
For animal lovers, Michigan offers several zoos and aquariums that cater to all ages.
The Detroit Zoo is home to the largest penguin habitat in the world and is known for its conservation efforts. This zoo features a wide variety of animals and is famous for its innovative, barless habitats.
Binder Park Zoo, located near Kalamazoo, features many events and opportunities like feeding giraffes, sea lion encounters, a train that rides around the park, and even a ropes course and zipline. For an unforgettable experience, you can even book a family overnight safari!
The Reptarium, located in Utica, is a unique hands-on experience that anyone can enjoy. Their motto is “education through interaction.” Visitors can learn about reptiles while being given the opportunity to hold or pet snakes, baby alligators, turtles, tarantulas, lizards, iguanas and other reptiles. There are often sloth and capybara encounters available as well!
The Reptarium’s partner is the LegaSea Aquarium, just across the street and Michigan’s newest aquarium. It is home to exhibits full of tropical fish, rays, sharks and many other marine species. It also offers touch-tank and feeding opportunities.
Michigan’s diverse summer activities offer something for everyone, whether you’re chasing thrills, exploring local art, or enjoying a relaxing day by the beach. Get out there and enjoy everything this beautiful state has to offer before the season slips away!
