An under-appreciated gem when it comes to international travel, the Great Lakes State of Michigan is a fantastic destination for outdoorsy adventurers. A geographical rarity in comparison to much of the USA, the state is made up to two peninsulas, surrounded for the most part by expansive waters — Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Superior and the edge of Lake Erie. Michigan’s accommodation options range from pretty lakeside B&Bs to swish design-led city hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Towering forests, rushing rivers and idyllic vineyards are never far from the best places to stay in Michigan.
Keen sailors, anglers and kayakers will delight in the myriad tiny harbours which dot Michigan’s shores. The coastal town of Saugatuck is a particular favourite, and there’s no shortage of opportunities for wild swimming, paddle boarding, boat trips and bird watching excursions across the state. Venture inland for great hiking and cycling trails, too. Longer trips can involve crossing the Canadian border into the wilderness of Ontario, home to a plethora of striking wildlife.
Visitors tempted by a more urban landscape should check out Detroit, now firmly on the up, with its burgeoning crop of micro-breweries, creative pop-ups and excellent museums. Take a guided city tour to really delve into the impact of regeneration on the historic capital of the US car industry. Ann Arbor, 30 minutes drive from Detroit, has a bustling arts and foodie scene, as well as being home to the University of Michigan — it’s a great city break destination. For a more laid-back feel, try Grand Rapids.
Whether you're drawn to this vastly underrated state by the majesty of the Great Lakes or curiosity about much-discussed Detroit, make sure you book a room at one of the best places to stay in Michigan. Hotels fill up fast during the summer months, as well as the winter ski season, so get organised and plan well ahead!