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If you’re planning a road trip through Michigan, you won’t want to miss the state’s many roadside attractions. Whether you’re looking for quirky photo opportunities, historical landmarks, or just a fun pit stop, Michigan has plenty to offer. From giant sculptures to unique museums, there’s something for everyone along the state’s highways and byways.
One of the most famous roadside attractions in Michigan is arguably the giant statue of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox in Oscoda. The 35-foot-tall statue is a must-see for anyone traveling through the area, and there’s plenty of other Paul Bunyan-themed activities nearby.
But that’s just the beginning of Michigan’s roadside attractions. Along the state’s highways, you’ll find everything from a giant tire in Allen Park to a museum filled with nun dolls in Indian River. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just plain weirdness, there’s something for you to discover.
So gas up the car, grab some snacks, and hit the road to explore all the unique roadside attractions in Michigan. With so many to choose from, you’re sure to find something that will make your trip even more memorable.
Historical Roadside Attractions in Michigan
Michigan is a state rich in history, and there are many roadside attractions that showcase the state’s past. Here are three museums that are worth a visit.
Michigan Historical Museum
The Michigan Historical Museum is located in Lansing and is operated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The museum features exhibits on the state’s history, including Native American culture, the lumber industry, the automotive industry, and more. One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the “Streets of Old Grand Rapids” exhibit, which features a recreated street scene from the late 1800s.
Detroit Historical Museum
The Detroit Historical Museum is located in Detroit and is dedicated to preserving the history of the city. The museum features exhibits on the city’s early French settlers, the automotive industry, Motown music, and more. One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the “Detroit: The Arsenal of Democracy” exhibit, which tells the story of how Detroit’s automotive industry helped the United States win World War II.
Henry Ford Museum
The Henry Ford Museum is located in Dearborn and is dedicated to preserving the history of American innovation and ingenuity. The museum features exhibits on the history of the automobile, aviation, and more. One of the museum’s most popular exhibits is the “Made in America” exhibit, which showcases American-made products throughout history, including the first Apple computer and the Wienermobile.
If you’re interested in Michigan’s rich history, these museums are a must-visit.
Natural Roadside Attractions in Michigan
Michigan is home to some of the most beautiful natural roadside attractions in the country. From towering sand dunes to stunning waterfalls, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to enjoy. Here are some of the natural roadside attractions in Michigan that you won’t want to miss.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-visit attraction in Michigan. The park stretches for 35 miles along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and is home to some of the most impressive sand dunes in the country. The dunes tower up to 450 feet above the lake, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area. The park also offers hiking trails, beaches, and camping facilities.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is another natural roadside attraction in Michigan that you won’t want to miss. The park is located along the shore of Lake Superior and is home to towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waterfalls.
The park is also home to the famous Pictured Rocks, a series of colorful sandstone cliffs that stretch for 15 miles along the shore of Lake Superior. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by boat, or by taking a scenic drive along the park’s main road.
Tahquamenon Falls
Tahquamenon Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Michigan. The falls are located in Tahquamenon Falls State Park and are known for their stunning beauty and impressive size. The falls are divided into two sections, the Upper Falls and the Lower Falls, both of which are worth a visit.
The Upper Falls are the more impressive of the two, with a drop of over 50 feet and a width of over 200 feet. Visitors can hike along the park’s many trails, take a boat tour, or simply enjoy the view from one of the park’s many observation points.
Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking for a beautiful place to visit, Michigan’s natural roadside attractions are sure to impress. From towering sand dunes to stunning waterfalls, there is no shortage of breathtaking scenery to enjoy. So pack your bags, hit the road, and explore all that Michigan has to offer!
Artistic Roadside Attractions in Michigan
If you’re a fan of art, Michigan has plenty of artistic roadside attractions to offer. Here are three must-see destinations for art lovers.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Located in Grand Rapids, Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a beautiful outdoor space that combines art and nature. The park features over 300 sculptures by artists from around the world, including works by Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, and Alexander Calder. With 158 acres of gardens and natural areas, the park is a peaceful and inspiring place to spend an afternoon.
Detroit Institute of Arts
The Detroit Institute of Arts is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the country. The museum’s collection includes over 65,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art.
Highlights of the collection include works by Vincent van Gogh, Diego Rivera, and Rembrandt. The museum also hosts special exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for current offerings.
Grand Rapids Art Museum
The Grand Rapids Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Grand Rapids. The museum’s collection includes works by regional, national, and international artists, with a focus on contemporary art. The museum also hosts a variety of events and programs, including lectures, film screenings, and workshops.
Whether you’re a fan of classical art or contemporary sculpture, Michigan has plenty of artistic roadside attractions to explore. These three destinations are just the beginning – be sure to check out other museums, galleries, and public art installations throughout the state.
Quirky Roadside Attractions in Michigan
If you’re looking for something unique and offbeat to do in Michigan, look no further than its quirky roadside attractions. Here are three must-see attractions that are sure to make your trip memorable.
The Heidelberg Project
Located in Detroit, the Heidelberg Project is an outdoor art installation that has been around since 1986. The project was started by artist Tyree Guyton, who wanted to turn his neighborhood into a work of art. The result is a colorful and eclectic collection of sculptures, paintings, and other art pieces that cover entire blocks of the neighborhood.
The Heidelberg Project is free to visit and open year-round. While there, you can take a self-guided tour, participate in a workshop, or attend one of the many events that take place throughout the year.
Da Yoopers Tourist Trap
Da Yoopers Tourist Trap is a roadside attraction located in Ishpeming, Michigan, that celebrates all things Yooper (a term used to describe people from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula). The attraction features a gift shop, museum, and outdoor sculptures, including a giant chainsaw-wielding lumberjack and a 40-foot-tall statue of a man with a fishing pole.
Inside the museum, you’ll find exhibits on Yooper culture, including mining, logging, and hunting. The gift shop sells all sorts of Yooper-themed souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and bumper stickers.
World’s Largest Cherry Pie
Traverse City, Michigan, is known as the Cherry Capital of the World, so it’s only fitting that it’s home to the World’s Largest Cherry Pie. The pie, which measures 28 feet in diameter and weighs over 17,000 pounds, was baked in 1987 to celebrate the city’s 100th anniversary.
While the original pie is no longer around, you can still see a replica of it at the Traverse City Cherry Festival, which takes place every July. The festival also features cherry-themed food, live music, and other family-friendly activities.
Whether you’re an art lover, a fan of Yooper culture, or just someone who loves cherry pie, Michigan’s quirky roadside attractions are sure to delight and entertain.
Final Thoughts
Michigan is a state full of unique and quirky roadside attractions that are sure to make any road trip memorable. From the giant Uniroyal tire in Allen Park to the Lumberman’s Monument in Oscoda, there’s something for everyone.
One of the best things about these attractions is that many of them are free or have a low admission fee, making them accessible to everyone. Additionally, many of these attractions offer educational opportunities, making them great for families with children.
When planning your Michigan road trip, be sure to include some of these roadside attractions in your itinerary. They provide a great opportunity to break up long stretches of driving and add some fun and excitement to your trip.
Michigan’s roadside attractions are a testament to the state’s unique culture and history. Whether you’re interested in giant statues, unusual museums, or natural wonders, Michigan has something to offer. So hit the road and discover all that this great state has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some weird roadside attractions to see in Michigan?
Michigan is known for its quirky and unusual roadside attractions. Some of the weirdest ones include the World’s Largest Cherry Pie Pan in Charlevoix, the Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox statues in Oscoda, and the giant fiberglass fish in Kaleva. These attractions are sure to make for a memorable road trip experience.
What are some of the most popular attractions in Michigan?
Michigan has a variety of popular attractions that draw visitors from all over the world. Some of the most popular ones include Mackinac Island, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Henry Ford Museum, and the Detroit Institute of Arts. These attractions offer something for everyone, from history buffs to outdoor enthusiasts.
What are some crazy things to do in Michigan?
If you’re looking for some offbeat and crazy things to do in Michigan, you’re in luck. You can visit the Mystery Spot in St. Ignace, where gravity seems to be defied, or take a tour of the abandoned Michigan Central Station in Detroit. For a unique dining experience, check out the Bavarian Inn Restaurant in Frankenmuth, where you can enjoy a family-style chicken dinner.
What are some unique attractions in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan?
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is home to some unique attractions that are worth checking out. The Tahquamenon Falls State Park boasts two waterfalls and is a great place to hike and explore. The Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore features stunning sandstone cliffs that are best viewed by boat. And the Keweenaw Peninsula is a great spot for history buffs, with its copper mining heritage.
What are some interesting roadside attractions in Ohio?
While not in Michigan, there are some interesting roadside attractions in neighboring Ohio. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is a must-visit for music lovers, while the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton is a great spot for aviation enthusiasts. And for a unique outdoor experience, check out the Hocking Hills State Park, which features stunning rock formations and waterfalls.
What is Michigan’s top tourist attraction?
Mackinac Island is Michigan’s top tourist attraction, drawing over a million visitors each year. This picturesque island is located in Lake Huron and is known for its Victorian architecture, fudge shops, and horse-drawn carriages. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and spend a day or more exploring its many charms.
