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Best Holiday Road Trips in Michigan

Michigan does not have to work hard to establish itself as a top American road trip choice. The state has four of thefive Great Lakes surrounding it, morebeaches than the Atlantic coast, and more than half of its area covered byforests. Throw in a few toweringdunes, lonely lake islands, picturesquebyways, and a sprinkling of roadside charm, and you've got an unforgettable blueprint for the perfect road trip.

Frankenmuth: Michigan’s “Christmas Town”

8 of the Best Holiday Road Trips in Michigan

Here are a few of the best road trips in Michigan to get your car moving:

1. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Are you looking for a fantastic road vacation that combines hiking and beautiful views in Michigan? Visit the famousPictured Rocks National Lakeshore near Munising, Michigan. There are swimming holes, dunes, cliffs, waterfalls, and much more to find here!

2. Bellaire and Chain of Lakes

If you enjoy kayaking, a road trip toBellaire, Michigan, and theChain of Lakes is ideal. Some of Michigan's most stunning kayaking locations, fromElk Lake toTorch Lake,Intermediate Lake, andWalloon Lake, may be found here!

3. Frankenmuth: Michigan's "Christmas Town"

No Michigan holiday trip is complete without visitingFrankenmuth, the state's "Christmas Town." Located in central Michigan, this Bavarian-style village is home toBronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store. Bronner's features holiday decorations year-round, but during the winter season, the entire town is decked out in lights, wreaths, and garlands, creating a charming holiday ambiance. Be sure to stop byZehnder's and theBavarian Inn for hearty meals that'll warm you up on chilly winter days.

4. Keweenaw Peninsula

Fasten your seatbelts and go to theKeweenaw Peninsula for one of the most incredible road excursions to a peaceful area of Michigan. Here, you can find beautiful lighthouses, undiscovered waterfalls, sea stacks, and entry to the isolatedIsle Royale National Park.

5. Traverse City to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Traverse City, known for its festive holiday lights and winter wineries, is a great starting point. Begin by exploring the charming downtown, which lights up with holiday decorations and offers seasonal shopping at local boutiques. You then head to theSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, about 30 minutes away. Even in winter, the dunes provide breathtakingviews of Lake Michigan, and the scenicPierce Stocking Drive is open to cross-country skiers and hikers. Stop atGlen Arbor, a quaint town nearby, where you can sip hot chocolate and enjoy local pastries.

6. Michigan's Natural Wonders

Michigan has plenty to offer in terms of natural beauty. You could spend a lifetime trying to see everything, but this journey covers some highlights. You will be amazed by theNichols Arboretum, which begins inAnn Arbor. Next, visitPort Austin in the north to witness the breathtakingTurnip Rock. Rent a kayak to see this unusual rock up close amid the lake. Proceed toPictured Rocks National Lakeshore and thenTahquamenon Falls State Park. Take a picturesque trek or a boat excursion along the water's edge cliffs to get your legs moving.

7. Haunted Michigan

If you consider the abandoned locations road trip creepy, strap your seatbelts for this one. Some spots in Michigan will give you chills, so brush up on your urban myths and ghost stories. Look for "melon heads," which are large-headed monsters said to inhabit the neighboring forests, starting atFelt Mansion in Holland. If you're game, spend the night atHenderson Castle, the next destination. While resting at this 19th-century bed & breakfast, guests have felt taps on their bodies and other mysterious presences. Channel the souls of fallen warriors atDetroit's Fort Wayne after continuing east toJackson State Prison, Michigan's first state prison.

8. Waterfall Road Trip

Michigan has numerous spectacular waterfalls, and this tour highlights the finest of the best. Begin your adventure inIronwood Township, close to the Wisconsin border, to visitPotawatomi Falls. Proceed east to witnessGabbro Falls, which consists of three different falls. Next is the spectacular 15-foot plunge atManido Falls, followed byManabezho Falls inPorcupine Mountains State Park. Proceed eastward to witness several magnificent waterfalls, such asBond Falls,Munising Falls, the picturesqueMiners Falls, andSable Falls, before concluding your journey at the breathtakingTahquamenon Falls State Park.

Clean Cars for the Holidays: EL Car Wash Holiday Special Offers

Road trips are an excellent way to enjoy the outdoors during the holidays. Michigan has many choices to cater to every taste. As you are preparing, remember to get your car washed before, during, and after the trip. If you need aquick car wash during road salt season, visitEl Car Wash. We are the Official Car Wash ofthe Detroit Lions!

As we head into road salt season,El Car Wash has you covered. There's no better place to get a fast and affordable car wash in Michigan and protect your car from the elements. With monthly car washunlimited wash memberships, you can enjoy unlimited car washes every day for less than $1.

Unlimited Wash Members also have access to a long list of freebies, including FREE vacuums, mat cleaners, dash wipes, air fresheners, glass cleaner, and more!