12 Best Day Trips From Detroit, Michigan

1. Ann Arbor

Detroit to Ann Arbor, Michigan, is about 45 miles (72 kilometers) and will take around 45 minutes. Well-known as an urban haven of amusement destination, Ann Arbor provides metropolitan attractions as well as a natural zone with spectacular trails to venture. Visitors can enjoy local festivals and events held at any time of the year. In case active travelers want to relax in the downtown area, try kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding or walking along the Huron River. You can also join the crowd at the Big House or go shopping for high-quality fashion; Ann Arbor has something for everyone.

2. Niagara Falls

The total driving time from Detroit to Niagara Falls, USA, is around 4 hours. This iconic destination links USA and Canada through the Rainbow Bridge. Its unique location comprises three waterfalls. Both sides provide different sights to choose from, especially the frozen falls in the winter or the sunny and hot falls in the summer. However, summer and spring are the best times to visit Niagara Falls with warm temperatures during the day and thus tranquil at night.

Many classic Niagara events can get you in the festive mood, such as the winter festival of lights, Poinsettia show with fancy flowers, Greg Frewin family-friendly Theatre, a night of Canadian country music, and more.

3. Milford, OH

It’s 263 miles (423 kilometers) from Detroit to Milford, Ohio, which takes about 4 hours and 26 minutes to drive. Milford is a city in Clermont and Hamilton counties in the U.S State of Ohio. Considered as a city in Greater Cincinnati, there is a variety in Milford that will appeal to different interests. It includes Cincinnati Nature Center, Promont House Museum, Lake Isabela, Ault Park, Shaw Farm, and more. As one of the favorite destinations, Cincinnati Nature Center is just minutes away from the downtown area, suitable for nature lovers. It provides tranquility and comfort among fields, a forest of 1,800 acres (728 hectares), streams, and ponds.

4. Saugatuck, MI

Saugatuck is a charming day trip destination located on the shores of Lake Michigan. The town is known for its sandy beaches and stunning sunsets. Spend your day exploring the vibrant art galleries, boutique shops, and eclectic eateries that line the quaint streets. Take a scenic boat cruise along the Kalamazoo River or rent a kayak for a leisurely paddle. Enjoy a picnic in one of the beautiful parks or indulge in some beach relaxation.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the lake. Visit Oval Beach, consistently rated as one of the best beaches in the region, to soak up the sun and splash in the waves.

5. Birmingham, MI

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Birmingham is a vibrant and picturesque city that offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Start your day by exploring the charming downtown area, known for its upscale shops, art galleries, and delicious eateries. Art enthusiasts can visit the Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center or catch a show at the exquisite Baldwin Theater.

Outdoor activities include a leisurely stroll through Booth Park or a visit to Quarton Lake Park where you can enjoy a picnic or walk around the lake.

6. Mount Pleasant, MI

Mount Pleasant is a city in Isabella County, the U.S. State of Michigan. The fastest way from Detroit to Mount Pleasant, MI, is to drive, which takes 2 hours and 21 minutes. The distance is 155 miles (249.45 kilometers) from Detroit to Mount Pleasant by car. Mt. Pleasant provides plenty of entertainment and cultural breaks throughout the year for everyone. The splendid climate of four Michigan’s seasons blends with the lots of lakes, the Chippewa River, and diverse streams that make Mount Pleasant an ideal place for outdoor activities. In the meantime, the city also provides various options for recreational and special events, such as golf, soccer, tennis, basketball, volleyball, and more.

7. Frankenmuth

From Detroit to Frankenmuth, the driving time takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes. Frankenmuth is a city in Michigan known for its Bavarian-style architecture. The historical museum of Frankenmuth features the area’s German roots. What should everyone do during a visit to Frankenmuth? Travelers can go to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the largest Christmas store in the world, or experience Bavaria by indulging in a German-themed restaurant or soaking up Bavarian architecture.

Don’t forget to try Two World Famous Chicken Dinners offering mouthwatering masterpieces in the area and check out other unique shops.

8. Lansing, MI

Driving distance from Detroit, MI, to Lansing is about 91 miles (146 kilometers). If you drive non-stop, you will arrive there in an hour and 26 minutes. As the capital city of Michigan, travelers can uncover Michigan’s history museums, sports areas, bike paths, and modern restaurants. You can even walk amongst murals and public art, enjoy the festival city, cheer on the Lansing Lugnuts, Lansing’s minor league baseball team, or trek the Lansing River Trail.

9. Lexington, MI

Any sightseeing near Detroit, Michigan, wouldn’t be complete without visiting Lexington. It’s about 352 miles (566 kilometers) away, which takes approximately 5 hours and 24 minutes to drive. Renowned for its horse breeding, the city has the title of the horse capital of the world. There are various exciting things to do and experience, such as visiting almost 50 breeds of horses, plus art galleries, diverse museums, restaurants, parks, walking tours, and historic architecture in Lexington downtown.

Moreover, join the horse farm tour to meet the four-footed celebrities in their own homes. If you like shopping, uncover hand-crafted works of local artists, the largest mall in the state, and exclusive boutiques in the city.

10. Holland, MI

Driving distance from Detroit to Holland is about 181 miles (291 kilometers) and it can be reached in approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by car. As a city on the lakeside of Lake Macatawa, Holland is popular for its Dutch heritage as a portion of its cultural uniqueness. Tourists can experience the Tulip Time Festival in autumn and diverse Dutch-themed events nearby Lake Michigan. Visit BAM! Entertainment Center, enjoy Holland Aquatic Center, and State Park. Experience Nelis’ Dutch Village and Windmill Island Gardens or enjoy Tunnel Park, a spectacular place to watch the sunset.

11. Bay City

It’s 115 miles (185 kilometers) from Detroit to Bay City, which takes about an hour and 52 minutes to drive. Bay City is an artistic core and historic waterfront neighborhood. Visitors can sail through the waters, venture the Bay City Antiques Center, or strike a pose on Third Street Star Bridge. There are plenty of options along the Bay City Area Riverwalk as many places are accessible. If you like adventure, experience Tour Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. For foodie lovers, try an innovative breakfast in the downtown area of the city.

12. Grand Rapids, MI

Driving time from Grand Rapids to Detroit is 2 hours and 21 minutes. It’s 158 miles (254 kilometers) from Detroit to Grand Rapids, the Michigan city on the Grand River, east of Lake Michigan. In Michigan’s second-largest city, you can hunt for the art street, visit Meijer Sculpture Park, indulge in local foods, swim in Lake Michigan, which looks like an ocean, visit the public museum, or shop in Grand Rapids’ downtown area.

Experience a memorable day trip

Venture outside of Detroit and explore Michigan’s known and lesser-known destinations. With a vast array of attractions and activities, you’re definitely bound to have a memorable experience in these destinations. Use our list above to find the perfect day trip from Detroit.