Michigan Road Trip

Lush, green, scenic forestry awaits you during a Michigan road trip. Ride from one end of lower Michigan to the other, and before you know it, you will be smitten with the mitten. Here’s your itinerary for a Michigan road trip.

Saugatuck, Michigan

Start your road trip on the shores of Lake Michigan in Saugatuck, Michigan. This coastal town is found on the Art Coast, boasting a vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as some of the most pristine beaches in the country. A must-do is a visit to Oval Beach, a world-renowned beach, known for its soft sand, rolling dunes, and tranquil waters. Soak up the sun and the sand of Lake Michigan. For lunch, head over to Duck Alley. The restaurant was founded by two childhood best friends, Dominic and Jazer, who dreamt of owning a restaurant one day and bringing fresh ingredients to diners everywhere. Order the delicious Fried Chicken Naan for a unique take on fried chicken. For dessert, head towards your stay at Best Western Plaza Hotel Saugatuck and grab a soft serve ice cream cone from Dairy Dayz. From flurries, to sundaes, to flavorbursts, Dairy Dayz satisfies the cravings of every sweet tooth. Wake up the next day and grab a Specialty Latte from Uncommon Coffee Roasters, like the French Guiana, which has chocolate, cayenne, and cinnamon, before heading back out on the road again.

Book your stay at Best Western Plaza Hotel Saugatuck. Best Western Plaza Hotel Saugatuck is conveniently located minutes from Oval Beach and Downtown Saugatuck. With an indoor pool, complimentary breakfast, and electric chargers, you have everything you need to enjoy a beach getaway in Saugatuck, Michigan.

Pit Stop Lansing, Michigan

A quick stop in Lansing, Michigan is necessary, and when visiting the capital of Michigan, schedule a stop at the Lansing State Capitol Building. Book a tour, learn about the legislative process, and see where a bill becomes a law in the Senate and House of Representative rooms. The impressive architecture is enough to leave you staring at the ceiling. Then, grab a bite to eat at Lansing Shuffle, one of the coolest, newest food halls in the country. Opened in 2023, the 11,000 square foot market has two bars and seven restaurants to choose from, including, Takitos AF, Yeti Kitchen, Browndog Creamery, Kin Thai, Beirut Kitchen, and Osteria Vegana. You can have Asian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, and American cuisine all under one roof. Be prepared to come hungry!

Book your stay at Best Western Okemos/East Lansing Hotel & Suites. Located minutes from the Capitol and MSU, get where you need to go without the inconvenience. Serving up a deluxe breakfast with over 30 items, start each adventure everyday with energy.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan is home to University of Michigan, and not only is it one of the most renowned college towns in America, but it is also a must-do-stop on your Michigan road trip. Pay a visit to the University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum, also known as “The Arb”. From the indoor Conservatory with three separate climates, to the little, artistic Bonsai Garden, let yourself explore and enjoy nature both indoors and outdoors. Afterwards, make your way to downtown Ann Arbor. Grab a book at the independent bookstore, Literati Bookstore. With a robust book selection, ripe with extensive staff recommendations, and secret series on book topics like “How To Adult”, you’ll be sure to unleash your inner bookworm at Literati. To eat like one of the college students, head over to Blimpy Burger. To order, answer these three questions: number of patties, what kind of bun, and what grilled items would you like? At the end of the process is a delicious, juicy Blimpy Burger, beloved by UMich students and visitors alike.

Book your stay at Best Western Detroit Livonia. Conveniently located close to Ann Arbor, Best Western Detroit Livonia is a stellar choice for those visiting the sights and sounds of the University of Michigan. Located across the street from a number of restaurants and shopping options, enjoy a stress-free vacation and book today.

Pit Stop Dearborn

A pit stop for great eats is Dearborn, Michigan. As of last year, Dearborn, Michigan is the largest city with an Arabic community. Whether you already love Arabic food or would love to try it, go to Al Ameer. Established in the early ‘80s, this Middle Eastern restaurant serves award-winning 100% halal certified, cuisine. Order the Al-Ameer Platter which includes tender Chicken Shawarma and Meat Shawarma served over a bed of rice. Afterwards, head over to Shatila Bakery for dessert. With a wide selection of French and Middle Eastern desserts, it will be hard to choose just one pastry, but be sure to pick up baklawa amongst your choices.

Detroit, Michigan

The last stop on our Michigan road trip is “Motown” also known as Detroit, Michigan. Detroit, Michigan is often referred to “Motown” because it is home of the record label, Motown Records. Pay a visit and go on a tour at Motown Museum, where you can learn more about artists like, Smokey Robinson, The Supremes, The Temptations, and The Jackson 5. You can view the real recording studio where these musical legends made their names. Continue to channel nostalgia vibes when you visit Old Soul Vintage, a place where you can thrift clothing and items from every decade. For more retail therapy, head over to Canfield St. in Midtown Detroit. Cozy gift shops like Nest and City Bird, plus super pink Bon Bon Bon, makes for a perfect day of shopping. Afterwards, cuddle up with a cup of coffee from The Congregation, a converted church turned café that used to be home to civil rights activists in the ‘60s.

Book your stay at Best Western Greenfield Inn. Surrounded by Victorian architecture, this pink palace is the perfect home for exploring Downtown Detroit and the surrounding areas. Pay a visit to the on-site restaurant, Mugly’s Food & Spirits for all your food and beverage needs.

Michigan is the heart of the Midwest. With more than 30 Best Western^® Hotels & Resorts in the state, only possibilities await you. Explore the Great Lakes, breweries, and delicious food when you book with Best Western® Hotels & Resorts Michigan now.