russjc001 Loc: South Carolina

We are planning a trip up the Michigan west coast along Lake Michigan. I would appreciate some suggestions on the best photography areas to visit. Just picked up a map and guide book but your own experience would be most beneficial. Lighthouses, dunes, interesting small villages, sea stacks, sunrise/sunset locations, etc.

Thanks!!

justhercamera Loc: NW Michigan

Oh, there are so many places, from the scenic artsy areas of Saugatuck Douglas (do go into Douglas, many people miss it), to Grand Haven with its musical fountain.... there are dunes in many areas, I am rather partial (and near to) Sleeping Bear Dunes (I have posts here taken there). Also, near me, is Point Betsie lighthouse.. which is near the town of Frankfort... and as you continue north, Petoskey is worth seeing (I need to get there this summer). Feel free to PM me as well if you have specific questions. I am a life long resident of West Michigan and have always loved being near the water.

russjc001 Loc: South Carolina

Thanksgiving! Adding them to my list. 😊

russjc001 Loc: South Carolina

Meant Thanks! Darn autocorrect! 🙄

justhercamera Loc: NW Michigan

LOL.. no problem. When (not if.. when).. you go to Sleeping Bear Dunes, drive the Pierce Stocking Drive. You have to pay to go there, it is part of the National Park system, but it is more than worth it for the views.

How much time do you have to spend in Michigan?

davidrb Loc: Half way there on the 45th Parallel

So you want to be a "fudgie"? Visitors to the western portion of Michigan tend to migrate towards Traverse City (TRA-verse is how it is pronounced). TC is the home of Doug Murdock's Fudge and visitors can be seen walking about carrying their bags of fudge. Eastern Michigan is known for it's chicken dinners from Frankenmuth and results in "chickies" being on the loose carrying their bags of chicken. Western MI has lots of scenery along the shore. Holland is beautiful and full of tulips. North of Holland becomes "tourist towns" all the way north to Traverse City. Get there by Fourth of July and watch the Navy's Blue Angels preform above Grand Traverse Bay, nice show. Grand Traverse region has lots of vacation-type attractions. Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes is a great time-user for people of all ages. Camping is a big idea for the region and you will find many options, calling ahead might be advisable. There are not many lighthouses left but a few are found as you work you way "north". Most villages here are of the "small" variety, and the spots for sunsets are unlimited. For sunrises you will need to go eat chicken. One of Traverse City's most notable feature is that most people are visitors and very friendly. And usually they are lost. Never follow an out-of-state license plate for that reason. There is a wide variety of ethnic peoples and foods, and of course we have a variety of local breweries. But the biggest attraction for this area is it's fruit. The climate and weather are perfect for cherries, peaches, grapes (wineries are plentiful) and strawberries. The region is one of the largest producers of sweet cherries in the world. Keep in mind that slightly north of Traverse City is the 45th parallel which means you will be 1/2 way from the equator to the north pole and yes, it does get cool in the evenings so plan accordingly (sweaters and coats). Every community has tribal casinos so bring lots of cash. Fudge, fun, fruit, food and people are all you will find here. The area is a vacation paradise. Hope you enjoy.

russjc001 Loc: South Carolina

Yes, that looks good! Our approximate departure is 7/17 and back before the end of the month. I hope to get as far north as Picture Rocks National Lakeshore on the UP.

Cdouthitt Loc: Traverse City, MI

How far up the west coast are you going? If you make it to traverse city, send me a message. Depending on your athletic abilities there are some great areas in sleeping bear dunes national lakeshore to tackle...from drivable to hiking. When are you coming. I recommend avoiding the area during the Cherry Festival...unless you like craziness.

Robertl594 Loc: Bloomfield Hills, Michigan and Nantucket

Don’t forget Mackinac Island. No cars permitted. Only horses, buggies and bicycles.

BlueMorel Loc: Southwest Michigan

St. Joseph and South Haven have great lighthouses and views of the Lake from various points along their roads. South Haven has the Michigan Maritime Museum and a few tour boats, even a pirate sloop. Ludington has the Badger Ferry. Pick up one of those Lake Michigan Circle Tour booklets from a rest area.

stewml Loc: Livonia, MI

When exploring the west coast of Michigan one trip will not be enough. All of the above suggestions are great. One I didn't see was Leland (also known as fishtown) small but worth the stop. Plenty of wineries in that area also :)

JimBart Loc: Western Michigan

If you plan on that frame, all the suggestions are great but if I figure right.... 2 days travel each way (min) that leaves 10 days sightseeing. I would plan on staying in the lower peninsula and forget pictured rocks and the upper peninsula excluding Mackinaw Island as it is quite a distance north. In addition motels and camping sites in state parks are at a premium this time of the year unless you already have reservations. There is so much to see and do you may want to consider using Ludington, Traverse City, and Mackinaw City as a base camp and branch out from these locations
Remember.... have fun and enjoy yourself. Save something for the next time through.

Cdouthitt Loc: Traverse City, MI

Oh yeah...don't forget Tahquamenon Falls...since you want to go to the UP.

cmcaroffino Loc: Sebring, FL

And from another Michigan Boy, in addition to the wonderful places already mentioned there is Leland (a quaint fishing village) and where you catch the ferry to South Manitou Island for a great day trip or overnight camping if you are into backpacking. I used to take my boys, our mountain bikes and spend days on South Manitou island exploring & camping. Great place for birding also.

Silverman Loc: Michigan

Time will most likely be your enemy! There is so much to see in Western and upper Michigan, Beauty pervailes! Most all towns along the western coast have many, many Photographic opportunities, If you just follow the shoreline around until you come to the "Mighty-Mac" Bridge at the upper most point of the lower peninsula, you will be amazed at the beauty and scenic vistas you will encounter on your journey.