If you’re stuck on what to give the beloved father figure in your life, why not a daytrip or a weekend getaway for them–or you and them–somewhere in the Great Lakes State? From thrilling outdoor adventures to historical explorations, Michigan boasts countless options for creating lifelong memories.
- Explore the great outdoors: Michigan is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wide array of outdoor activities that will ignite your sense of adventure. Take your dad on a fishing trip to one of the renowned fishing spots, such as Lake St. Clair or the Au Sable River. If your dad enjoys hiking and camping, head to the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can conquer towering sand dunes and bask in breathtaking vistas of Lake Michigan.
2. Embark on a historic journey: Michigan is rich in history, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts to bond with their dads. Visit the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn to explore exhibits highlighting the industrial revolution and American innovation. Detroit’s Motown Museum will take you on a musical journey through the birth of the Motown sound. Or take Dad to the Underground Railroad Historic Sites, where you both can learn about the path to freedom for so many enslaved ancestors.
3. Experience the thrills of motorsports: If your dad didn’t get enough of the Detroit Grand Prix, Michigan has just the thing to satisfy their adrenaline cravings. Visit the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, where you can witness heart-pounding NASCAR races or even drive a race car yourself. The Gilmore Car Museum in Hickory Corners is another must-visit for automobile enthusiasts, featuring an impressive collection of vintage cars and motorcycles.
4. Indulge in delicious culinary delights: Michigan is a culinary haven, offering a wide variety of dining options that will tantalize your taste buds. The Charles H. Wright Museum, who is a partner of this year’s Juneteenth Freedom Fest, will be on-hand for the Dad Cook-off on Father’s Day, which is June 18—the same day as the Juneteenth Freedom Fest. Those events will take place at Eastern Market, Shed 5. If you and Dad are plant-based eaters, Black Detroit has plenty of places to check out, such The Kitchen by Cooking with Que, Good Cakes and Bakes, Seva, and Trap Vegan.
5. Unwind in charming lake towns: Michigan is renowned for its picturesque lake towns, providing a serene and relaxing atmosphere for quality time with your dad. Saugatuck, nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers sandy beaches, art galleries. For a taste of Victorian-era charm, visit Mackinac Island, where motorized vehicles are prohibited, allowing you to explore the island on bicycles or horse-drawn carriages. The town of Charlevoix, with its iconic mushroom houses and stunning marina, is another delightful option for a lakeside getaway. Another slept-on gem is historic Idlewild, Michigan, which is a Black resort town where actors, musicians, and regular folks mingled, especially during the days of segregation.
Michigan is a treasure trove of experiences, making it an excellent choice for a memorable vacation for every father and child duo. So, start planning your trip, create lifelong memories, and strengthen the bond with your dad in the beautiful Great Lakes State.
About Post Author
