Inexpensive Michigan Getaways

Experience Michigan's natural resources.

Michigan--the Great Lakes State--is the ideal setting for an inexpensive getaway. Home to the five Great Lakes, Michigan's Department of Natural Resources states that Michigan has the "largest dedicated state forest system in the nation" with 97 state parks and recreation areas. Vacationers can experience free or cheap activities and attractions ranging from enjoying the natural splendor of Michigan to exploring urban, trendy downtown areas such as the historic Motor City.

Detroit

Detroit is an inexpensive option for a getaway that will give you a lot of bang for your buck with plenty of sightseeing and attractions. Check out the Motown Historical Museum--a Frommer's recommended attraction--and see where Marvin Gaye, The Jackson 5 and Stevie Wonder made a name for themselves. Frommer's also recommends a walk to the Detroit Institute of Arts, which is inexpensive, as admission is a donation. The institute houses more than 100 art galleries, and the Detroit Historical Museum is also close by on the famed Woodward Avenue. If you have kids, checking out the Detroit Science Center is a must. Kids (and parents) will have a blast experimenting with science projects and viewing the hands-on exhibits.

Planning a trip to Detroit in August is a good idea, as The Motor City hosts "the largest single-day car event in the world," according to Frommer's. The annual Woodward Dream Cruise (see woodwarddreamcruise.com) features an average of 40,000 muscle cars and hot rods along a 16-mile stretch. Parade route admission is free.

Motown Historical Museum
2648 West Grand Blvd.
Detroit, MI 48208-1237
[phone]
motownmuseum.com

Ludington State Park Campground

Camping is a fun, inexpensive weekend or week-long activity to do as a couple, with friends or the whole family. TouringMichigan's website votes Ludington State Park Campground as the best Michigan camping site. On the western side of the state and located in Ludington State Park along six miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, the campground is primarily in use between May and October. More than 300 campsites are available, as well as three mini-cabins. Campers can fish, hunt, picnic, bicycle and view nature in the great outdoors. Fees change per season and campsite.

Ludington State Park
8800 W. M-116
Ludington, MI 49431
[phone]
www.dnr.state.mi.us/publications/pdfs/wildlife/viewingguide/nlp/37Ludington/index.htm#directions

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Nestled in the Leelenau Peninsula of Michigan lie the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Located in a pristine, beachy spot about 100 miles north of Ludington the dunes area is perfect for swimming, canoeing or hiking, or sightseeing.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes are 400-foot spikes and rolling hills made of unadulterated sand. The dunes--a massive formation of gold and reddish sands--were shaped by glaciers, creating the perfect backdrop for a relaxed setting for tourists. According to The Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor's Bureau, while recreation like climbing the dunes, picnicking and driving along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive are complimentary, camping and area museums are available for a cost.

Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Bureau
P.O. Box 517
12 Wood Ridge Road
Glen Arbor, MI 49636
[phone]
sleepingbeardunes.com/index.php

References

• Frommer's: Detroit Attractions
• TouringMichigan.com: Top 25 Michigan Campgrounds
• The Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor's Bureau: Explore the Wonder of the Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore

Resources

• Detroit Science Center
• Department of Natural Resources: 37 Ludington State Park