Embark on an adventure right in your own backyard, uncovering Michigan’s best-kept secrets along the scenic M-22.
From charming towns to breathtaking landscapes, this road trip is brimming with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.
Let’s get excited about the local wonders that offer endless enjoyment and exploration!
1. Manistee
Ah, Manistee!
It’s our starting block for an unforgettable jaunt through Michigan’s heartland.
Just a stone’s throw from where M-22 begins, this town has everything you need to set off on the right foot—or wheel, as it were.
Picture yourself meandering down the Manistee North Pierhead with the Lake Michigan breeze playfully tugging at your hair.
Or maybe you’re more of a sun worshipper?
In that case, Orchard Beach State Park’s golden sands await your beach towel and sunscreen.
But before we dive into the beauty around us, let’s grab a bite at TJ’s Pub.
Trust me, it’s the kind of fuel that could power a rocket or at least a very peppy traveler.
2. Arcadia
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away lies Arcadia, where the great outdoors isn’t just a concept—it’s the star of the show.
Have you ever wanted to feel on top of the world?
Inspiration Point is ready to oblige, offering vistas of Lake Michigan that will make your heart sing.
Golfers, grab your clubs because Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course is more than just a game—it’s an experience.
And for those who prefer their leisure with a side of legwork, the Arcadia Dunes stand majestic, offering trails that weave through nature’s splendor.
Remember, whether you’re after a heart-pumping hike or a gentle jaunt, every step is a memory in the making.
3. Frankfort
Moving right along, we find ourselves in Frankfort, where the air seems to whisper tales of lake legends.
This town doesn’t bother with airs and graces—it’s all about genuine charm, with a downtown that’s as cute as a button and eateries that’ll have you loosening your belt in anticipation.
The Point Betsie Lighthouse isn’t just a beacon for boats but a magnet for anyone with a fondness for scenic beauty.
And for beachcombers, the shores here are a rock hound’s paradise.
Picture the kiddos, eyes alight, as they clutch their geological treasures.
When it comes to dining, Frankfort rolls out the welcome mat for families, offering flavors to delight every palate.
Plus, Crystal Lake is the epitome of relaxation—a serene escape that beckons you to its tranquil embrace.
4. Empire
Next, we venture to Empire, the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore’s grandeur.
If time is of the essence, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive gives you the cliffs notes version—pun intended.
But for the intrepid, the Empire Bluff Trail rewards your efforts with views that will have your Instagram followers turning green with envy.
And if you’re in the mood for a dash of the past, the Empire Area Museum is like a time machine without the flux capacitor.
5. Glen Arbor
Glen Arbor is our next picturesque pit stop, and let me tell you, it’s charming enough to make a storybook jealous.
For those who can’t resist the siren call of cherries, the Cherry Republic of Glen Arbor is your personal Eden.
Literature lovers, The Cottage Book Shop beckons with its stacks of stories and cozy corners perfect for losing yourself in a novel.
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Thirsty?
Glen Arbor Wines is ready to quench it.
And for a dining experience that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate, Blu is your go-to spot.
You might start wondering if you can somehow move in permanently.
6. Leland
Leland slows down the pace, inviting you to take a leisurely stroll through time in the iconic Fishtown.
Here, old fishing shanties and weathered buildings stand testament to a bygone era along the sleepy canal.
Treat yourself to a meal at the Cove and then meander through unique shops like the Village Cheese Shanty and the Dam Candy Store.
It’s a nostalgic step back into simpler times.
7. Suttons Bay
Our penultimate jewel is Suttons Bay, a small but mighty contender in the charm department.
Its downtown is snug yet brimming with appeal.
For a laid-back libation, Hop Lot Brewing Co. has you covered with a relaxing setting just perfect for sipping craft beers and mingling with the locals.
Seeking a night’s rest amidst beauty?
Black Star Farms serves up comfort surrounded by lush vineyards, ensuring your morning view is as refreshing as the country air.
8. Traverse City
Finally, we roll into Traverse City, a place that’s won the hearts of Michiganders far and wide.
Here, history aficionados and gastronomes alike will find their happy place.
Grand Traverse Commons, once a stately asylum, now thrives as a community centerpiece buzzing with shops and restaurants.
Food lovers, prepare to be dazzled by the array of dining options that turn every meal into a celebration of local produce and culinary flair.
Coffee connoisseurs, each café here offers a distinctive twist on your favorite brew.
Our M-22 road trip may have highlighted eight standout towns, but let’s not forget the myriad of other wonders sprinkled along this route.
Customizing this escapade to your heart’s desire is as easy as a few clicks on this adjustable map.
So, are you ready to set off on a journey through the enchanting M-22 towns, with memories just waiting to be made?
What hidden gem along Michigan’s M-22 are you itching to explore first?
