Ah, the days of sweet summer sunshine mixed with endless backyard barbecues and children laughing while running through sprinklers are finally upon us. After a long winter like the one we just had, I’m extra itchy for some sort of epic family adventure – a “Mother-of-all-trips.”
Something to be savored at a relaxing pace and that will be reminisced about to grandchildren and great-grandchildren alike.
No, this isn’t some mythical unicorn of a trip that only happens in my head during those rare moments alone on the couch. It is real, and here is how you can make it happen this summer.
Imagine a road trip that took you through a bustling major U.S. city, scuba diving for shipwrecks, camping in the woods, lounging on the beach, fishing, boating, hiking, visiting an island without cars, exploring local vineyards, falling in love with art AND seeing four of the five great lakes.
It’s real folks, and you’ll need about 10 days in Michigan to do it.

10-Day Michigan Lakes Road Trip Itinerary
From Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. 10 days and 1044 miles of new adventures. Touring the Lakes of Michigan 10 days / 1044 miles / 18 hours 16 minutes
In this month’s Alamo Scenic Route blog post, I share a detailed 10-day itinerary for the Ultimate Summer Driving Tour of Michigan Lakes complete with what to do, where to stay and the best eats to be had.
Starting at the Detroit airport, I take you on a 10-day trip starting in the city and escaping to the Upper Peninsula and back. We will exploring 4 of the 5 Great Lakes, and get a chance to enjoy the many beach towns along the way.
Fun fact: World Book Encyclopedia (v. 13, p. 500 of the 2000 edition) says that Michigan has more shoreline than any other state (except Alaska) at 3,288 miles.
I would love to go on a road trip to Michigan and visit all these lakes! Are there any other highlights of your road trip except the lakes?
Thanks for the guide! I don’t exactly know much about where to go and what to do in Michigan, I do know that there’s plenty to explore there with the kids!
This must be one of the most awesome road trips anyone can take. I love the scenic views, the activities and other things only Michigan can offer. I have to ask my husband if we can consider this and include it in our travel bucket list this year.
I have been to Michigan only once, to visit my aunt and her family. I haven’t toured the place extensively, but I hope to do that the next time I visit. My mom has been asking me to take her there. She said she hasn’t seen her sister in ages!
I’ve wanted to visit here so many times. It sounds gorgeous. Road trip!!!