Don’t Miss the US-12 Heritage Trail Michigan Road Trip [Itinerary]

As a road that’s centuries in the making, the US-12 Heritage Trail is the perfect highway for an unforgettable road trip. Carving a path from Detroit to the Indiana border in Michigan, US-12 is a winding road that expertly blends nature, culture, shopping, roadside attractions, and more that makes Michigan unique.

We’ve created an east-to-west road trip guide for you to use as you take your own US-12 journey. Starting in the heart of downtown Detroit, you’ll be amazed as you pass through quaint towns and villages, lakeshore hotspots, and even a few of Michigan’s most famous attractions.

Getting to Know US-12 in Michigan

Michiganders can travel on US-12 for over 210 miles without leaving the state, but this stretch is only a small part of this massive highway. In its entirety, the road runs from Aberdeen (Washington) to Detroit, covering a distance of nearly 2,500 miles.

Once a network of ancient Native American routes, the road that became US-12 was once an important migration route for travelers who eventually settled in the Michigan territory before Michigan became a state.

US-12 has seen its share of route changes, it has always been one of the Great Lakes State’s main routes from Detroit to Chicago. Ideas for a Detroit-to-Chicago thoroughfare began in the 1800s and the road expanded over decades to evolve into the route travelers know today.

While it is an important Michigan highway, US-12 also passes through nine other states, cutting through Idaho, North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana. It covers the largest area in Montana at nearly 600 miles.

Traveling on US-12 in Michigan

Traveling east to west, travelers can pick up US-12 at the corner of Michigan and Cass avenues in Detroit and travel more than 200 miles across the state to New Buffalo. In approximately 3.5 hours, travelers can discover small towns, famous museums, and much more.

Because it either intersects or runs parallel to other Michigan interstates and highways including I-94 and I-69, US-12 sees its fair share of traffic, especially during warmer months. While traffic does pick up around bigger cities, there are stretches that see less traffic flow for a relaxing westward drive.

Names for US-12 in Michigan

US-12 has been known by several names over the years, including Michigan Avenue, Chicago Road, and Sauk Trail. To some, it may be known today as the US-12 Heritage Trail, a designation it received in 2004. In 2014, it was designated as a Pure Michigan Byway.

US-12 has also been designated as the Iron Brigade Memorial Highway in Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois to honor the 24th Michigan Infantry Regiment, part of the famous Iron Brigade in the Civil War.

Best US-12 Stops in Southeast Michigan

The 200+ mile journey from Detroit to New Buffalo begins in Detroit at the corner of Michigan and Cass avenues. While the Motor City marks the eastern terminus of US-12 and the starting point for your trip, don’t let that stop you from exploring this historic city.

Downtown Detroit

Travelers will pick up US-12 near Campus Martius Park, considered by some Michiganders to be the heart of Detroit. With its location in the heart of downtown, it is a symbol of Detroit’s resilience in addition to a popular community gathering spot.

Campus Martius has been named the BEST Public Square in America by USA Today’s 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards and is known as Detroit’s Gathering Place — a place where residents and visitors can relax and refresh by a peaceful cascading fountain.

The park is also marked by the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, which was unveiled in 1872 as a Civil War Monument. As an all-seasons destination, visitors can enjoy everything from spring blooms to winter ice skating to a relaxing summer “beachfront” at Campus Martius.

While you’re near Campus Martius, make your way to the Spirit of Detroit. This massive bronze statue is located in the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center on Woodward Avenue. The statue was inaugurated in 1958 and is a popular site during playoff time for Detroit’s sports teams.

No visit to Detroit is complete without a slice of Detroit pizza. This deep-dish square pizza with its thick, chewy, cheesy crust is tops among US pizza preferences and hungry adventurers can get a slice at Buddy’s Pizza — which created the iconic pizza — near Campus Martius on Broadway Street.

Before you head west on your US-12 journey, consider heading east to Belle Isle. For almost 200 years, this scenic jewel has offered beautiful views, fun attractions, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Detroit’s Corktown Neighborhood

Heading east on US-12, out of the heart of downtown Detroit, one of the first places travelers will come across is Detroit’s Corktown neighborhood. The oldest neighborhood in the Motor City is known for its numerous eateries, including brunch spots and breweries.

TIP: If you’re looking for a hearty meal before really digging into your journey, try the famous Slow’s Bar-B-Q. 

Sports fans can take a few minutes to reminisce as they pass by the corner of Michigan and Trumbull, the former site of Tiger Stadium. Today that space is the site of The Corner Ballpark and the Willie Horton Field of Dreams and hosts different youth sporting events throughout the year.

Dearborn

After a short drive, you’ll arrive in Dearborn — the famous hometown of Henry Ford and the Ford Motor Company. Ford was born in the area and built his Fair Lane estate and River Rouge factory in Dearborn.

Reminders of Ford’s legacy can be found throughout Dearborn. Visitors can tour Fair Lane’s grounds and gardens each day to get a sense of the home lives of Henry Ford and his wife Clara.

NOTE: As of May 2024, the home is closed for renovation

The Ford Rouge Factory Tour — which is part of the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation — offers a chance to learn about Ford’s famed assembly line production process and see modern manufacturing in action as current Ford vehicles are designed.

A visit to the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village is a must for any traveler on US-12. As the largest indoor-outdoor museum complex in the nation, the Henry Ford gets more than two million visitors a year who spend hours learning and discovering its many wonders.

The museum complex is a testament to Henry Ford’s genius and the museum itself features many permanent exhibits that feature important pieces of pop culture and many items of historical significance such as the Rosa Parks bus and Abe Lincoln’s chair from Ford’s Theater.

Greenfield Village allows visitors to take a step back in time through seven historic districts that include a recreation of Thomas Edison’s workshop, living history presentations at historic working works, and a replica factory where Model T’s were first built.

RELATED: Dearborn has lots of great restaurants, but King’s Bakery and its famous Mediterranean manouwichs are perfect for US-12 travelers on the go.

Ford’s Garage, near the Henry Ford Museum and Ford World Headquarters, serves up tasty burgers and comfort food in a family-friendly eatery that’s reminiscent of a 1920’s service station.

Westland

After passing through Inkster, travelers can get a little unsettled with a visit to Eloise Asylum. This former psychiatric hospital opened in 1839 and its chilling origins and eerie history blend the past and paranormal. Visitors can book an escape room or conduct their own paranormal investigations to uncover Eloise’s many secrets.

Ypsilanti

In Pittsfield and Ypsilanti townships, US-12 follows the path of I-94 and skirts around the south side of Ypsilanti as it continues westward.

But Ypsilanti is a hidden gem worth pulling off the highway to explore. While Ann Arbor is only minutes away, Ypsi stands out as a vibrant college town that cherishes its history while keeping an eye on the future.

In addition to being the home of Eastern Michigan University, Ypsi has lots to see and do. It’s home to a water tower with an — ahem — interesting shape and dubious title, and it’s also home to Depot Town — a historic district with museums, boutiques, and Victorian-era architecture.

Ypsilanti’s Depot Town offers Sidetracks. A burger with sweet potato fries is the recommendation, delicious.

– Aaron Cruz

Ypsi is also an outdoor paradise and Riverside Park is considered the beating heart of the city as a bridge between Depot Town and downtown Ypsilanti. The park hosts numerous events during the year and visitors of all ages enjoy fishing, paddling, and picnicking by the Huron River.

Best US-12 Stops in Southcentral Michigan

Saline

Continuing westward, visitors will arrive in Saline, a vibrant city with small-town charm.

TIP: Brecon Grille is the place in Saline to experience comfort food.

Not only does Saline have a historic downtown with fun eateries and shops, but it’s also the home of the former Saline Railroad Depot, a site that’s available for tours. Saline also hosts fun events during the year, including the Saline Summerfest, the Saline Winterfest, and Harvest of the Arts Oktoberfest.

RELATED: Ann Arbor is less than 20 minutes from Saline, so travelers can veer off of US-12 for a fun visit to A2. 

Brooklyn

Just 35 minutes from Saline, US-12 adventurers will enter the village of Brooklyn, best known as the home of Michigan International Speedway. The two-mile, D-shaped track is the site of a yearly NASCAR race where diehard fans can see their favorite drivers compete.

Apart from MIS, Brooklyn is known for its location in the Irish Hills (which is a great area to see fall colors) and proximity to several lakes. Brooklyn is also just minutes from Hayes State Park, which extends into Jackson County around Round Lake.

RELATED: Check out more of Jackson County on a fun day trip.

Before leaving Brooklyn, visit Cambridge Junction Historic State Park. Visitors will find the famous Walker Tavern, a popular stop for stagecoach riders going from Detroit to Chicago. Today, living history interpreters and exhibits give visitors a glimpse into Michigan’s “frontier” days.

Cement City

Located just a short distance off US-12, adventurers can stop in Cement City, a small village named after a cement plant in the early 1900s. The big attraction here — though it has a Somerset Center address — is McCourtie Park.

In 1991, McCourtie Park was designated as a Michigan State Historic Site, and it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1992.

The brainchild of William H. L. McCourtie — the park houses one of the nation’s largest collections of Trabajo Rustico Art — art made from steel and wire that’s covered with cement and then sculpted to look just like wood. Visitors can explore 17 walkable concrete bridges that look just like wooden planks, complete with ropes and logs.

If you’re feeling hungry, pay a visit to Jerome Country Market or Meckley’s Flavor Fruit Farm. You can stretch your legs, enjoy freshly made snacks, and grab a little something for the road.

Jonesville

Travelers looking to stretch their legs can stop in Jonesville for fun shopping opportunities and chances to see historic homes.

You’ll find numerous historic churches and buildings with old-school architecture along the US-12 Heritage Trail. Munro House B&B and the Great Episcopal Church were a couple of such stops I enjoyed in Jonesville.

– Aaron Cruz

The crown jewel among the historic homes is the Grosvenor House Museum, the former home of E.O. Grosvenor, a former Lt. Governor of Michigan. Seasonal tours of this massive 32-room Victorian Italianate home are available for a small fee.

TIP: Coney Hut Drive Inn offers a vintage drive-in eating experience.

Allen

While it has a population of just 201, the village of Allen is definitely worth a stop on US-12 because it’s the “Antiques Capital of Michigan.”

Treasure hunters can visit at least a half dozen places in town with hundreds of booths. Locals say that if you took just one minute to visit each booth, it would take you as many as three days to see them all.

Quincy

Just up the road, US-12 travelers will enter Amish County in Quincy where there’s plenty to see and do. Visitors won’t want to pass up a trip to Amish County Bakery (open from April through December at 1003 Herrickville Road) for fresh bread, pies, candies, produce, and more.

The Old Granary has one of the largest and most unique collections of handcrafted items and primitives. Visitors will love exploring every nook and cranny of this store to find unique treasures worth taking on the rest of their US-12 journey.

Best US-12 Stops in Southwest Michigan

Coldwater

Right in the middle of the US-12 Heritage Trail is the town of Coldwater — a town with a historic drive-in, historic theater, steam engine rides, and access to dozens of freshwater lakes.

Between New Buffalo and Coldwater, travelers will go from Lake Michigan and a beach town setting to countryside and small-town charm. Lots of greenery, open road, and warm weather fun, all with a little history mixed in awaits this kind of trip.

– Aaron Cruz

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the South Chain of Lakes (also called the Marble-Coldwater Chain of Lakes) just south of US-12. This chain of 8 lakes offers a multitude of opportunities for fishing, swimming, camping, and other outdoor recreation.

Adventurers who want a blast from the past will want to catch a movie at Capri Drive In Theater. Opened in 1964, it’s been a family and date night favorite for decades and the perfect place to spend a weekend night for a double feature.

RELATED: Check out more of the best drive-in theaters in Michigan.

Coldwater is also home to one of the oldest theaters in Michigan. The Tibbits Opera House opened in 1882 in downtown Coldwater and offers year-round entertainment in an intimate 500-seat theater.

Train enthusiasts can ride the rails on the Little River Railroad, hopping aboard an authentic 100-year-old steam engine for rides to Quincy and occasionally Hillsdale.

RELATED: Colon, the Magic Capital of the World, isn’t on US-12, but it’s just 22 minutes from Coldwater on M-86 and is home to the American Museum of Magic, which features items from some of the world’s greatest magicians.

Bronson, Sturgis and White Pigeon

Heading out of Coldwater, US-12 travelers will hit four small towns in about an hour of westward driving: Bronson, Sturgis, and White Pigeon, before passing through Edwardsburg on the way to Niles.

• Bronson is a hidden gem water wonderland known as a fisherman’s dream with access to nearby lakes and plenty of space for all-seasons fun on or near the water.
• Sturgis, “The Electric City,” gained its nickname because of its hydroelectric dam on the St. Joseph River, which continues to serve the community. The city’s downtown retains its historic charm with Victorian-era buildings lining the streets.
• White Pigeon is a small rural town but is a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts for its access to nearby lakes. It also runs seasonal routes on the Little River Railroad to Sturgis and Coldwater.

Just south of Niles, US-12 intersects with M-60. Continuing into Niles, travelers can follow M-139 to St. Joe and Benton Harbor.

Buchanan and Three Oaks

Continuing past Niles, visitors can stop in Buchanan, Michigan’s “Redbud City” — so named because of the redbud trees that line city streets. Visitors can stop by Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve to explore beautiful gardens or visit the Roti Roti Art Center of Buchanan to see magnificent art displays.

Three Oaks is a charming former railroad town that appeals to history buffs, art enthusiasts, and foodies. Hungry travelers can order from Drier’s Meat Market, a nationally recognized eatery that smokes delicious meats in a smokehouse that’s over 100 years old. Journeyman Distillery is also worth a stop and offers a variety of spirits to sample.

New Buffalo

Just a few miles from the end of your trip, New Buffalo is the Gateway to the Lake Michigan shore — an anchor in Southwest Michigan offering a laid-back atmosphere.

Weary travelers can find their perfect spot in the sand and soak up the sun at Warren Dunes State Park, New Buffalo Beach, and Cherry Beach among other local lakeside locations.

RELATED: Check out other scenic Michigan beaches along Lake Michigan.

Visitors can explore the region’s largest recreational harbor that offers chances for watersports and other outdoor adventures. Near the New Buffalo lakeshore, visitors can explore multiple wineries along the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail.

Before you leave New Buffalo, visit the New Buffalo Railroad Museum to learn about the significance railroads once played in the region. “The Little Museum That Could” features a replica of the Pere Marquette Railroad Depot, artifacts, train cars, and more that help tell the story of New Buffalo.

Michiana

The end of US-12 in Michigan (or the beginning if you’re starting from the west) brings you to Michiana, a stone’s throw from the Indiana border. This charming village on the Lake Michigan shore is one of Michigan’s last resort areas before crossing state lines and is known for its 1920s-era log cabins.

Explore Curiosities and Charming Towns on a US-12 Journey

Whether you explore every antique spot in Allen, visit every Lake Michigan beach near New Buffalo, explore every inch of the Henry Ford Museum, or shop til you drop in Ypsi’s Depot Town, US-12 in Michigan has something to cater to all travelers.

Follow our east-to-west guide — or go west-to-east — and explore every nook and cranny of this curious highway. You’ll never know what you might find and what you will find is sure to amaze you!

Thanks to Aaron Cruz for his contributions to this article.