Things to do
Explore your Next Adventure
Published Feb 24, 2025
Upper Peninsula Michigan
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan, or the U.P., is a vast and sparsely populated region in the state’s northernmost part, surrounded by three of the five Great Lakes. It features breathtaking natural beauty, including rugged coastlines, sprawling forests, and lakes and waterfalls. Despite its remote location, the U.P. offers a vibrant cultural scene, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year, and celebrating winter sports, music, and art. This captivating destination, with its rich history, natural wonders, and cultural diversity, appeals to a diverse range of interests.
- Explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’s natural beauty
- Visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park’s largest waterfall in MI
- Discover 200 named waterfalls in the U.P.
- Step back in time at historic Mackinac Island
- Learn about the U.P.’s Native American heritage
- Hike and explore U.P.’s stunning waterfalls
- Go snowmobiling on U.P.’s winter trails
- Take a boat tour of the Soo Locks
- Enjoy fishing in Lake Superior or inland lakes
- Visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
- See Kitch-iti-kipi Spring’s crystal-clear waters
- Hunt for agates
- Tour the oldest active lighthouse on Lake Superior – Whitefish Point Lighthouse
- Take a scenic drive on the Great Lakes Circle Tour
- Drive on Copper Country Trail National Byway in Copper Harbor
- Rock climb at Grand Island
- Explore Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park
- Drive on Black River Scenic Byway and see waterfalls
- Go on a wildlife tour at Seney National Wildlife Refuge
- Visit Oswald Bear Ranch and take a bear cub encounter tour
Torch Lake
The Torch Lake/Northern Michigan area boasts clear lakes, rolling hills, and abundant outdoor adventures. Torch Lake is a highlight, offering boating, fishing, and swimming in turquoise waters. Charming towns like Bellaire, Alden, Bay Harbor, Petoskey, Charlevoix, and Traverse City offer shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. Vineyards and wineries producing delicious local wines add to the region’s appeal. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers and those looking for small-town charm.
- Swim, boat, or fish in Torch Lake
- Hike or bike Sleeping Bear Dunes trails
- Visit charming towns: Bellaire, Alden, Traverse City, Petoskey, Charlevoix, Bay Harbor
- Take a scenic drive on M-22 along Lake Michigan
- Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes’ sand dunes and beaches
- Go wine tasting at local vineyards and wineries
- Enjoy views from Old Mission or Grand Traverse Lighthouse
- Take a kayaking or paddleboarding tour on Torch Lake or Lake Michigan
- Go on a fishing charter on Lake Michigan or inland lakes
- Relax at public beaches
- Drive through Tunnel of Trees in Harbor Springs
- Explore Gaslight District’s shops and art galleries in Petoskey
- Visit Mackinac Island by ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace
- Ski or snowboard at Boyne Mountain or Shanty Creek
- Attend National Cherry Festival in Traverse City in July
- Drive through Leelanau Peninsula
- Visit Mackinac Bridge Museum and walk across the bridge
- Explore outdoors at Grass River Natural Area
- Tour local breweries and sample craft beers
- Go horseback riding at area stables
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