Take an Unforgettable Michigan Road Trip Along the Lake Michigan Shoreline on US-31
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Many Michigan residents and out-of-town visitors argue that Lake Michigan is the best of Michigan’s Great Lakes. For travelers who want to soak up the beauty of Lake Michigan in all its glory, a journey on US-31 is the perfect choice for your next road trip.
From the Michigan-Indiana border all the way to Mackinaw City, journeyers of all ages can travel along (or close to) the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline for over 350 miles, exploring small towns, and lighthouses, soaking up beautiful views, and having fun.
DID YOU KNOW: US-31 extends for 1,280 miles from Mackinaw City, Michigan to Spanish Fort, Alabama. Along the way, it passes through Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
It’s perfect for day trips or an extended road trip and we recommend taking your time to make sure you don’t miss any Michigan magic on your adventure northward!
Starting Along US-31
Entering Michigan (or just starting at the Michigan-Indiana border), US-31 travelers will start their northward journey southwest of Niles along the St. Joseph River.
RELATED: Read more about the history of the Michigan-Indiana border.
Buchanan, Michigan
If you’re traveling during the fall, stop in Buchanan and enjoy a trip on the West Michigan Pike. Stretching from Buchanan to Mears, the Pike is one of the best fall color drives in West Michigan and was the first road in Michigan to be paved specifically for tourism.
The route follows US-31 and passes through Holland, Grand Haven, and Muskegon among other places before ending near Pentwater.
RELATED: One of the other spots you’ll go through on the West Michigan Pike is Berrien Springs. Here you can visit Lemon Creek Winery to enjoy delicious wines from a historic winery and vineyard.
St. Joseph, Michigan
Continuing on US-31 (and the West Michigan Pike), journeyers will eventually arrive in St. Joseph. — just west of US-31.
But before you get there, be sure to stop at some of the excellent, award-winning breweries you’ll find near the pike route — including Lazy Acre Vineyard and Free Run Cellars in Berrien Springs.
Once you reach St. Joe, there’s so much to explore. Start at Silver Beach, one of the most famous beaches along Lake Michigan, where visitors can explore nearly 2,500 feet of lakeshore. Don’t miss a chance to ride the Silver Beach Carousel!
In the middle of all the hustle and bustle in St. Joe, travelers can visit The Market, a one-stop shop with plenty to shop for in a relatively new and trendy indoor market.
The city also has several must-see spots for art enthusiasts. The Krasl Art Center hosts the annual Art Fair on the Bluff and has been a local focal point for art with rotating exhibitions and educational programs. The Box Factory for the Arts has an art market that’s perfect for finding home decor, paintings, and more.
Benton Harbor, Michigan
Southwest Michigan has many charming small towns, including Benton Harbor. In recent years, Benton Harbor has transformed into a city with a thriving arts district, which has served as an anchor for eateries, shops, and small businesses.
The city’s arts district includes a performing arts center, an innovative theater that showcases community performances, and a nonprofit glasswork studio.
South Haven, Michigan
Between New Haven, South Haven, and Grand Haven, there are a lot of “havens” to keep track of in Michigan. But the next stop on your US-31 trek is South Haven, a vacation destination with some of the state’s best beaches.
In South Haven, life can truly be a beach!
Summertime is the peak visiting season in South Haven as travelers come to soak up the sun on the Lake Michigan shore, patronize farmers’ markets, play scenic rounds of golf, and more.
Make no mistake, however, South Haven is an all-season destination! But if you are visiting during summer, spend time at North and South beaches for some sunshine or walk the catwalk to the historic South Haven Light.
RELATED: Planning on staying over in South Haven? Peruse some of the city’s best lodging options.
If you’re up for exploring, spend some time traversing the Kal-Haven Trail. This former rail bed — officially known as the Kal-Haven Trail Sesquicentennial State Park — connects South Haven to Kalamazoo and is perfect for hiking and biking.
South Haven has plenty to see, but no trip through town is complete without some shopping downtown. South Haven’s walkable downtown is perfect for families with stores selling everything from blueberry items and toys to books and home furnishings.
DID YOU KNOW: South Haven is perfect for antique enthusiasts too with several places to explore!
Saugatuck, Michigan
You’re going to see a lot of wonderful towns on your US-31 journey, but Saugatuck is in a class by itself — it’s even been named the nation’s best weekend escape!
Looking for breathtaking beaches, quaint downtown shopping, sand dunes, museums, and local art? Saugatuck has all that and more, making it an awesome destination on Michigan’s art coast.
After you’ve spent time swimming and sunning at Oval Beach, explore a different view of Lake Michigan aboard the Star of Saugatuck. This authentic sternwheeler provides a narrated tour as guests enjoy views of Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River.
As if that wasn’t thrilling enough, you can take an exciting 40-minute ride on top of Saugatuck Dunes to learn a few things about the dunes and gain an appreciation for nature’s raw power.
You can also see the dunes and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michigan at Saugatuck Dunes State Park; a place that’s an absolute dream for outdoor enthusiasts.
Holland, Michigan
Michigan’s Tulip City is a perfect place to stop on a memorable adventure on US-31. The lakeshore is beautiful, the city’s downtown is inviting, and there’s plenty of space for scenic hikes and memorable rounds of golf.
If you’re visiting Holland in the spring, you can’t go wrong with a trip to the Tulip Time Festival. It’s one of Michigan’s signature springtime festivals that pops with color as thousands of tulips bloom around town, providing the perfect backdrop for fun events that honor the city’s Dutch history.
Holland’s Outdoor Discovery Center is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. This 160-acre preserve is open year-round and includes an interactive visitor center, a birds of prey center, catch-and-release fishing ponds, and more.
RELATED: Explore more of the best outdoor things to do in Holland.
For those who prefer indoor activities, Holland has you covered there too. History buffs can explore the city’s roots at the Holland Museum, Spark!Lab offers hands-on activities for youngsters, and visitors of all ages can marvel at the craftsmanship on display at the De Klomp Wooden Shoe & Delft Factory.
RELATED: Satisfy your hunger and thirst at some of Holland’s best breweries and wineries and restaurants.
Grand Haven, Michigan
Travelers will pass by dozens of Lake Michigan beaches on their US-31 journey, but the lakefront oasis that is Grand Haven is in a class all its own. Its gleaming white sand beaches and majestic red lighthouse are exactly what people may think of when they think of a Michigan lake town.
While only about 10,000 residents live in Grand Haven full-time, it’s such a welcoming, charming town that it attracts more than two million tourists each year as an all-season destination.
RELATED: Check out some of the best lodging options in Grand Haven.
No stop in Grand Haven is complete without a stop at the Grand Haven Musical Fountain. It’s captivated audiences of all ages for decades and its nightly display of color and water is stunningly spectacular in summertime.
The summer Coast Guard Festival is another Grand Haven staple. This time-honored tradition honors the service of Coast Guard members and features plenty of family-friendly activities, including fireworks, ship tours, and live music.
After soaking up some rays or swimming at Grand Haven State Park, get a different view of Grand Haven on a sunset boat tour. Guests can enjoy the luxury of a grand yacht while enjoying awesome views of the city.
RELATED: Check out the best restaurants in Grand Haven for scenic lakefront dining.
Muskegon, Michigan
Muskegon is next up on your US-31 journey and it’s anything but a typical lakefront town in Michigan. With a vibrant cultural scene, incredible views, and plenty to do for indoor and outdoor enthusiasts.
If you’re set on visiting as many beaches as possible, head straight to Pere Marquette Park. It’s one of the best-maintained beaches in Lake Michigan with beautiful white sand, and space for sunbathing, swimming, kiteboarding, volleyball, and more.
If you want an only-in-Michigan experience, be sure to visit the Muskegon Luge Sports Park. The luge is one of the most thrilling sports in the Winter Olympics, and curious travelers can experience that thrill for themselves at one of just four luge tracks in the nation.
Looking for more thrills? Head to Michigan’s Adventure amusement park for plenty of chills, spills, and thrills. Visitors of all ages can enjoy dozens of rides, an attached waterpark, and plenty of family fun from around Memorial Day until Labor Day weekend.
We already mentioned Muskegon’s iconic South Breakwater Lighthouse and its red paint, but visitors can also explore the White River Light Station in Whitehall — it’s even rumored to be haunted.
Visitors also won’t want to miss a chance to take a trip back in time as they explore the S.S. Milwaukee Clipper. Formerly a car ferry and passenger ship, it set sail in 1941, traveling every Great Lake except Lake Ontario. Today, it’s docked at the former Grand Trunk Ferry dock where visitors can tour it.
Hart/Silver Lake Michigan
Continuing north on US-31, travelers will eventually arrive at one of the state’s most beautiful spots and a hidden gem: The Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Sleeping Bear Dunes may get a lot of attention, but the Silver Lake Dunes are tailor-made for adventure.
Visitors can swim, boat, and sunbathe, but they can also experience the dunes in a variety of ways. Travelers can walk the dunes on foot to explore the beautiful scenery near Lake Michigan. They can also take a guided buggy ride or climb aboard an ORV to explore certain sections of the dunes.
The Silver Lake Dunes are worthy of their own adventure, but the Hart/Silver Lake area has plenty more to do.
Break out your lighthouse checklist, make a beeline for Little Sable Point Lighthouse, and climb to the top for incredible views of Lake Michigan.
Wander through the streets of downtown Hart to marvel at historic buildings, including the Hart Railroad Depot, and the Glover Railroad Caboose.
RELATED: Located just 15 minutes from Hart, Lewis Adventure Farm & Zoo is a great family spot with a friendly petting zoo.
Pentwater, Michigan
The small town of Pentwater is a great spot to stretch your legs, but there’s also plenty to see.
Charles Mears State Park is another great spot to kick back and enjoy the majesty of Lake Michigan. With a swimming beach, picnic tables, volleyball courts, and more, there’s space for everyone to have fun.
NOTE: Mears State Park is less than 20 miles north of Silver Lake State Park, so the Silver Lake dunes aren’t too far away.
In October, travelers can descend upon Pentwater for Oktoberfest — one of Michigan’s many fall festivals. The lineup of activities includes a classic car show, live music, a 5K, and more.
Ludington, Michigan
Whether you’re a long-time Ludington resident or a first-time visitor, there’s no doubt this town is exceptional. In fact, it’s so exceptional that it was named USA Today 10Best’s “Best Historic Small Town in the USA” in 2024.
So what makes it so special? Not only does it offer the comforts of a small town, but it also offers incredible lakeside views, excellent dining, historic buildings, modern amenities, and plenty of charm.
A trip to Ludington State Park is never a bad idea. It’s a place for endless outdoor adventures, beckoning visitors to walk to the top of Big Sable Lighthouse, kayak down the Big Sable River, or sun on the shore of Lake Michigan.
Ludington is also home to numerous restaurants, some of which are close to the beach and offer all kinds of tastiness. There are plenty of choices, but we recommend the House of Flavors (and its 40+ flavors of ice cream), and the tasty food and brews at Ludington Bay Brewing Company.
Manistee, Michigan
No stop in Manistee is complete without stopping to see the city’s giant sequoia trees. Located at Lake Bluff Farms, three giant trees are still thriving through beautiful summers and brutal Northern Michigan winters.
The biggest among them Michigan Champion, is a towering 116 feet and is the largest such tree east of the Rocky Mountains.
Before you leave Manistee, make sure to check out the Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse (you’ll check off a lot of lighthouses on this journey). After that, you can traverse the 1.75-mile Manistee Riverwalk or hop inside a fringe-covered Victorian surrey carriage tour of Dempsey Manor.
Manistee is also a great town to drive through on a fall color tour, especially if you plan on driving all along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Frankfort, Michigan
Known for its charming atmosphere and picture-perfect beaches, Frankfort oozes small-town charm. With its tree-lined downtown and picturesque shops, it seems like a place right out of a storybook.
DID YOU KNOW: Frankfort is also part of the M-22 scenic drive, which extends from Manistee to Traverse City.
If you’re looking for spots to frolic by the water, it doesn’t get much better than Frankfort Public Beach and Playground. The Frankfort North Light and twin piers are major focal points of the park, which draws thousands of visitors to its soft, sandy shore each year.
Make sure to stop by the famous Point Betsie Lighthouse, a towering lighthouse known for its red brick roof and an excellent place to tour or watch a sunset. While you’re at it, visit the Frankfort North Light for more incredible sunset views.
RELATED: If you’re keen to stay along the Lake Michigan shoreline, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is only 40 minutes north of Frankfort along M-22.
Interlochen, Michigan
The small community of Interlochen is well known as the home of the Interlochen Center for the Arts, but it’s also a popular draw for outdoor enthusiasts.
Lake Dubonnet just outside Interlochen is a calm and peaceful lake that’s one of the best local spots for fishing, kayaking, and paddling. Kayakers can paddle through water lilies and past wildflowers and conditions are always perfect, allowing paddlers of all levels to have a leisurely adventure.
Interlochen State Park is a beloved spot just outside Traverse City and was actually the first state park established in Michigan. Visitors can enjoy just about every kind of outdoor activity and escape into nature away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Traverse City, Michigan
You’re going to pass through many cities on your US-31 adventure, but Traverse City is an absolute must-stop along the way. The “Cherry Capital of the World,” is one of the biggest, most popular cities in Northern Michigan and offers something memorable for visitors of all ages.
If you haven’t quite gotten your fill of Lake Michigan beaches, Traverse City has several beaches along its shoreline that are known for clear waters and soft sand. Bryant Park and Clinch Park are close to downtown, giving visitors easy access to outdoor recreation as well as restaurants and shops.
Fans of spooky/haunted attractions can tour the former Traverse City State Hospital and Village at Grand Traverse Commons. It’s the site of the former Michigan Asylum for the Insane and features a mix of abandoned buildings and modern restaurants.
If you’re visiting TC in the spring, May in particular, you’ll be treated to the site of over two million Traverse City cherry blossoms that burst forth in vibrant waves of pink and white.
Looking for more to do in Traverse City? Check out these great activities on your US-31 adventure:
- Moomers is the place to go for hand-dipped, delicious homemade ice cream.
- Stay at one of the many unique boutique hotels in Traverse City for a cozy, memorable lodging experience.
- Traverse City has numerous bike trails that are perfect for getting outside, getting some fresh air, and exploring the area’s beauty
- Traverse City has a variety of unique restaurants and distilleries that offer a tasty array of local flavors.
- Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy numerous Traverse City-area hikes that take hikers through forests, past sand dunes, meadows, and more.
Torch Lake, Michigan
If you’re traveling on US-31 in the summer, then a stop at Torch Lake should be at the top of your to-do list. This lake is the longest in Michigan and is renowned for its turquoise, crystal-clear waters that make visitors feel like they’ve stepped right into the Caribbean.
It’s the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts, who flock to Torch Lake for fishing, swimming, camping, picnics, and more. Make sure to spend time at the Torch Lake Sandbar — a shallow part of the lake that’s perfect for swimming, wading, and socializing.
RELATED: Make sure to stop by Ruthann’s Gourmet Bakery in Bellaire for a tasty treat from a lineup that includes cupcakes, muffins, cookies, bagels, and artisan bread.
Charlevoix, Michigan
The next destination on your US-31 trek is Charlevoix, a town that’s simply spectacular any time of year. “Charlevoix the Beautiful” was named one of America’s best lake towns by Travel + Leisure in 2024 and maintains a sense of privacy despite being a popular destination.
Bikers will love the sights and sounds along the Little Traverse Wheelway, which stretches 26 miles to Harbor Springs. This is one of the region’s most developed trails and visitors can bring their bikes or rent one from a local shop.
Fans of architecture and curiosities won’t want to miss a chance to tour Charlevoix’s magical mushroom houses. Earl Young created unique homes that look like something from Lord of the Rings,” basing the design of each house on the land around it. Many of them are within walking distance of downtown, making them popular tourist sites.
Thrill seekers can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience by paddling the Jordan River, which flows right through Charlevoix. It’s peaceful in the summer and more lively in fall and winter, so you can enjoy a peaceful paddle or a guided tour on choppier waters depending on your preference.
RELATED: Don’t miss a trip to Castle Farms while you’re in Charlevoix. It’s been an artist mecca, a concert venue, and endures as a premier wedding venue with colorful gardens, scenic walking paths, and an outdoor model railroad.
Petoskey, Michigan
If you’re driving along US-31 in the warmer months, Petoskey is one of the best towns to spend a little time in. Known for its “million dollar sunsets,” Petoskey has it all: Beautiful beaches, a lively downtown, excellent restaurants, and so much more.
Make no mistake, however. Petoskey is also an all-season destination with plenty of fun to be found in winter and lots of hidden gems to explore in the fall.
Just outside Petoskey, Sturgeon Bay Dunes is the perfect place for a rugged beach experience. Along three miles of shoreline, visitors can explore hilly dunes and spend time soaking up the sun.
Summer is also a great time to go hunting for Petoskey stones. Michigan’s state stone can be found all along the shores of Lake Michigan and Magnus City Park is a great place to start looking. The Petoskey Breakwall and Petoskey State Park are good spots to look, too.
DID YOU KNOW: The Petoskey stone is actually a mix of rock and fossil and it’s famous hexagonal (honeycomb) pattern is fossilized coral.
Apart from its stunning natural beauty, Petoskey is also a hotspot for foodies — so much so that the city has its own culinary trail where visitors can discover wineries, restaurants, farmers markets, and more.
RELATED: About a half hour from Petoskey, travelers can head east to Indian River to see the Cross in the Woods Shrine of Indian River — the world’s second-largest crucifix — and the Nun Doll Museum.
Alanson, Michigan
As you continue on US-31, the Seasons of the North Winery is a fantastic spot to enjoy delicious wines and scenic views. The grapes grown here are hybrid grapes and can endure harsh Michigan winters to create flavorful wines like semi-dry wines and sangria.
RELATED: Enjoy more wineries in Michigan.
Pellston, Michigan
Pellston holds a reputation as the Icebox of the Nation because in winter its coldest temperatures rival those of Minnesota and Colorado. Because of Pellston’s unique location, cold air gathers and sits and the town usually records sub-zero temps for at least 40 days each winter.
Mackinaw City, Michigan
Celebrate the end of your journey as you reach your final US-31 destination — but don’t let the fun stop once you arrive in Mackinaw City. As one of two ports for the Mackinac Island ferries and the city at the southern end of the Mackinac Bridge, Mackinaw City offers unlimited potential for adventure!
For the outdoor enthusiast, a trip to Mackinaw City affords a chance to see the brilliance of the night sky at Headlands International Dark Sky Park.
RELATED: Pasties are a UP delicacy, but you can get them in the Lower Peninsula and Hunt’s Mackinaw Pasties & Cookie Co. is one of the best spots to find these tasty delights.
The Jack Pine Lumberjack Shows are an educational, entertaining way to learn about Michigan’s logging history as visitors watch seasoned lumberjacks complete in sawing, throwing, and logrolling competitions.
Colonial Michilimackinac Historic State Park is a must-see for history buffs. This reconstructed military outpost from the 1700s offers seasonal tours and live programs that show how soldiers, Native Americans, and civilians lived and survived during that time.
RELATED: If you plan on staying awhile, check out some of the best vacation rentals in Mackinaw City.
Now that you’re on the shores of Lake Huron, add a few more lighthouses to your list. The Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse is located at Colonial Michilimackinac Historic State Park, and opposite that is McGulpin Point Lighthouse, where visitors can use their phones to learn about its significance on self-guided tours.
Explore the Majesty of West Michigan on US-31
No matter if you’re a lighthouse enthusiast, a foodie, a casual traveler, a bucket lister, or you fall somewhere in between, an unforgettable trip on US-31 in Michigan, has something for everyone.
As if the crystal-clear waters and soft white sand beaches weren’t enough, US-31’s small towns, restaurants, lighthouses, and other attractions are enough to bring smiles to the faces of any visitor.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to a place like Grand Haven or a visit to Traverse City is an annual summer rite of passage, the road is calling for you to make your own adventure on US-31!