Hello all
Taking DW, 2 teenagers, and in-laws to Michigan for first time. We will have 5 total days (Wed thru Sunday). Planning Detroit (one day) and Traverse City. Our home city has direct flights to both, so will be one-way car rental. We loved a recent trip to Acadia, and want to have a similar trip (leisurely hiking, strolling thru resort town, being outside) along with one day in urban city that has seen a renaissance. Due to limited time, we have to decide between Ford Rouge Tour vs Detroit Tigers game (production only during week?)
We could do this trip in reverse order (and see real Ford production line), but would miss Tigers homestead
Caveat: We do not mind driving, and know it is a 4 hours drive one way
Must Do
Sleeping Dunes
Shinola Store
Authentic Middle Eastern Food in Detroit
Would be nice to see
Ford Tour/Museum
Lunch/walk thru UMich campus (Hail to the Victors!)
Historic buildings in Detroit
Berry farms
Here is what Chat GPT came up with
5-Day Michigan Itinerary: Traverse City to Detroit
Day 1: Wednesday – Arrival in Traverse City
Arrival in Traverse City (mid-day)
Accommodation: Check into your hotel or vacation rental. Options include places near downtown Traverse City for easy access to the water and dining spots.
Lunch: Grab a bite at The Towne Plaza or The Filling Station for a casual local lunch.
Afternoon: Sleeping Bear Dunes
Head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for your first taste of Michigan’s natural beauty. Hike the Dune Climb for stunning views of Lake Michigan. If you're up for it, take the scenic drive along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive to catch breathtaking panoramic views.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider kayaking on Crystal Lake or Lake Michigan (there are several rental shops in the area).
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor for a laid-back atmosphere and delicious food. If you're craving a more upscale experience, try The Homestead resort dining.
Day 2: Thursday – Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes & Berry Farms
Morning: Kayaking & Water Activities
Start the day with a peaceful kayak trip along Lakes Michigan or Crystal Lake, both excellent spots for water activities. Alternatively, consider paddleboarding or renting a boat if you prefer something different.
Lunch: Pack a picnic from The Farm Grill or The Cherry Bowl and head to a scenic spot near the dunes for lunch.
Afternoon: Berry Farms & Vineyards
After lunch, head to Tight Squeeze Berry Farm (seasonal) or Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor for a fun stop and some delicious fruit or local preserves. Traverse City is famous for its cherries, so don’t miss out!
Optionally, visit Black Star Farms for wine tasting and a relaxing time at a vineyard.
Dinner: Head to Traverse City’s Downtown for a meal at The Blue Tractor, offering both Michigan-inspired dishes and a cozy atmosphere. You can also try The Cook’s House for an intimate fine-dining experience.
Day 3: Friday – Drive to Ann Arbor via the Scenic Route
Breakfast: Start with a hearty breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe or Grand Traverse Pie Company before heading out.
Drive to Ann Arbor (4 hours drive): Begin your journey south, taking your time to enjoy the beautiful northern Michigan landscape.
Optional stop in Cadillac or Big Rapids for a brief break or coffee.
Lunch: Stop in Ann Arbor for a Middle Eastern meal at Frita Batidos or Ali Baba. Both offer flavorful, authentic dishes with a local touch.
Once in Ann Arbor, take a walk around The University of Michigan campus, a lovely spot to stretch your legs and take in the vibe of this university town.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Zingerman's Deli, famous for its sandwiches and excellent deli fare, or Monahan's Seafood if you're craving fresh seafood.
Day 4: Saturday – Explore Detroit
Morning: Ford Factory Tour
Drive from Ann Arbor to Dearborn, just outside Detroit, for the iconic Ford Rouge Factory Tour. This immersive experience lets you see the assembly line in action and learn about the history of the Ford Motor Company.
After the tour, grab lunch at The Henry Ford Museum’s café or explore the historic Greenfield Village next door if you have the time.
Afternoon: Shinola Store & Explore Detroit
Head into Detroit and stop by the Shinola Store to see their renowned timepieces, leather goods, and accessories. It's a great spot for both shopping and Detroit culture.
Take a stroll around Detroit’s Riverwalk and enjoy the views of the river and skyline. Alternatively, visit Belle Isle Park for some nature and relaxation.
Dinner: For dinner, head to Selden Standard, an American restaurant known for its inventive dishes or Murray’s for delicious, authentic Middle Eastern food. Detroit has an amazing Middle Eastern scene, so you’ll find many places to satisfy your cravings.
Evening: Detroit Tigers Game
Catch the Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park. Be sure to check the game schedule for any changes. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, a hot dog, and the great energy of the ballpark.
Day 5: Sunday – Last Day in Detroit
Breakfast: Have a laid-back breakfast at Dime Store, a cool diner-style spot serving excellent breakfast and brunch dishes.
Morning: Explore Detroit’s Cultural Sites
Depending on your time, explore Detroit’s iconic spots like The Detroit Institute of Arts or The Detroit Historical Museum for some culture and history.
You can also visit the Motown Museum to learn about the music history that made Detroit famous.
Lunch: Head to Lamy's Deli for a light lunch or try La Dolce Vita, a charming spot known for its pastas and Italian dishes.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Exploration
If time permits, visit the Detroit Sound Conservancy or simply wander through Detroit’s bustling neighborhoods like Greektown or Midtown.
Make your way to the airport for your flight or your next destination.
The alternate trip would be:
Day 1: Wednesday - Arrive in Detroit
Midday: Arrival in Detroit
Arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW).
Pick up your rental car or take a taxi/rideshare to your hotel in downtown Detroit (recommendations: The Siren Hotel or Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center).
Afternoon: Explore Downtown Detroit
Woodward Avenue Shopping: Take a stroll along Woodward Avenue, known for its mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Stop at Shinola for a Detroit-made watch or bag, or browse through Detroit Mercantile Co. for unique local goods.
Detroit Skyline: Walk to the Detroit Riverwalk for stunning views of the skyline, and explore Hart Plaza, which offers excellent views of the river and the city.
Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA): If you're interested in art, consider a quick visit to the DIA, which is home to impressive collections, including the famous Detroit Industry Murals by Diego Rivera.
Dinner: Authentic Middle Eastern Meal
Enjoy a delicious Middle Eastern dinner at Al-Ameer Restaurant in Dearborn (a 15-minute drive from downtown Detroit). It’s a family-owned gem that serves some of the best Mediterranean and Lebanese food in the area. Try the lamb shawarma or kabobs, along with a fresh tabbouleh or hummus.
Evening:
After dinner, explore Greektown, a lively district with great nightlife, or head to The Belt, an alley filled with murals and street art. If you’re into cocktails, visit The Sugar House for craft cocktails.
Day 2: Thursday - Ford Tour & Ann Arbor
Breakfast:
Start your day with breakfast at The Hudson Café in downtown Detroit. They serve great coffee and breakfast items, including pancakes and omelets.
Morning: Ford Tour
Head to The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn (about 20 minutes from downtown Detroit).
Take the Ford Rouge Factory Tour to see the Ford F-150 truck assembly line in action and learn about the history of the American automotive industry.
Explore the Henry Ford Museum to see an impressive collection of American history, including everything from presidential limousines to the bus where Rosa Parks famously refused to give up her seat.
Lunch:
After your Ford tour, grab a bite at Andiamo in Dearborn for delicious Italian fare or visit The Dearborn Inn for a more historical setting.
Afternoon: Drive to Ann Arbor
After lunch, drive the 40-minute journey to Ann Arbor.
Explore Ann Arbor:
Walk around the charming Main Street area, lined with local boutiques, bookstores, and cafes.
If you’re into art, stop by the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA), or for something more outdoorsy, visit Nichols Arboretum, which has beautiful walking trails and views of the Huron River.
Dinner in Ann Arbor:
Head to Zingerman’s Roadhouse for a great, laid-back meal of comfort food made with fresh local ingredients, or The Chop House for a more upscale steak dinner.
Evening:
If you're in the mood for a live show, check out The Ark, a legendary music venue known for live folk and acoustic performances.
Day 3: Friday - Travel to Traverse City
Breakfast:
Start with breakfast at The Cottage Inn in Ann Arbor or Nick’s Original House of Pancakes for something more casual.
Morning: Drive to Traverse City
It's about a 4-hour drive to Traverse City from Ann Arbor. Consider taking a scenic route through Michigan’s countryside, passing through charming small towns like Cadillac and Kalkaska.
You can also stop at Crystal Lake (near Benzonia) for a quick stretch and a scenic view of this clear, freshwater lake.
Afternoon: Arrival in Traverse City
Check into your hotel or Airbnb in Traverse City (recommendations: Hotel Indigo Traverse City or The Bayshore Resort).
If time permits, head to the Traverse City Farmers Market (on Saturdays) for some local food and artisanal products.
Dinner in Traverse City:
Have a relaxing dinner at The Cook’s House, which serves seasonal, farm-to-table dishes with a focus on local ingredients, or The Manitou, which offers delicious seafood with stunning views of West Grand Traverse Bay.
Evening:
After dinner, take a walk along the Traverse City Waterfront to unwind and enjoy the evening breeze.
Day 4: Saturday - Sleeping Bear Dunes & Outdoor Activities
Breakfast:
Head to M-22 Grill for a laid-back breakfast with great local coffee, or visit Patisserie Amie for pastries and a lighter start to the day.
Morning: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Drive about 40 minutes to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Hike the Empire Bluff Trail, which is an easy-to-moderate walk that offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan from a high bluff.
Or, for a more adventurous option, climb the Dune Climb, one of the most iconic sand dunes in the area.
Lunch:
After hiking, head to The Boathouse in Glen Arbor for a relaxing lunch with beautiful views of the lake. Try their fresh whitefish or fish tacos.
Afternoon: Kayaking on Lake Michigan
Rent kayaks or paddleboards from Crystal River Outfitters in Glen Arbor or Lake Michigan Shore and spend a couple of hours paddling along the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan.
Alternatively, take a boat tour to see more of the beautiful shoreline.
Dinner in Traverse City:
Enjoy dinner at Trattoria Stella for delicious Italian food in a rustic setting, or head to The Cherry Public House for local brews and a more casual dining experience.
Evening:
Take a sunset walk along West Grand Traverse Bay, or relax with a glass of local wine from Chateau Chantal Winery.
Day 5: Sunday - Berry Farm Visit & Departure
Breakfast:
Start your last day with breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe or Traverse City Pie Company for something quick and delicious.
Morning: Berry Farm Visit
If you have time and it's the right season (usually late summer through fall), visit a local berry farm like Bishop’s Orchards or The Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor. They offer fresh cherries, berries, and local products, perfect for taking home souvenirs.
Explore the farm or pick your own cherries, raspberries, or blueberries, depending on the season.
Lunch & Departure:
After your berry farm visit, enjoy a quick lunch in Traverse City before heading to the airport.
Grab a bite at The Flying Noodle or The Blue Tractor for a casual meal before your departure.
Midday: Head to Traverse City Cherry Capital Airport (TVC)
Head to the airport for your midday flight.
Summary of Itinerary
Wednesday: Arrive in Detroit, explore Woodward Avenue, skyline, and have a Middle Eastern dinner at Al-Ameer.
Thursday: Ford Tour in Dearborn, lunch, explore Ann Arbor, dinner at Zingerman’s Roadhouse.
Friday: Drive to Traverse City, check in, dinner at The Cook's House, evening stroll.
Saturday: Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes, hike and kayak, dinner at Trattoria Stella.
Sunday: Visit a berry farm (if time permits), lunch, and depart from Traverse City.
Taking DW, 2 teenagers, and in-laws to Michigan for first time. We will have 5 total days (Wed thru Sunday). Planning Detroit (one day) and Traverse City. Our home city has direct flights to both, so will be one-way car rental. We loved a recent trip to Acadia, and want to have a similar trip (leisurely hiking, strolling thru resort town, being outside) along with one day in urban city that has seen a renaissance. Due to limited time, we have to decide between Ford Rouge Tour vs Detroit Tigers game (production only during week?)
We could do this trip in reverse order (and see real Ford production line), but would miss Tigers homestead
Caveat: We do not mind driving, and know it is a 4 hours drive one way
Must Do
Sleeping Dunes
Shinola Store
Authentic Middle Eastern Food in Detroit
Would be nice to see
Ford Tour/Museum
Lunch/walk thru UMich campus (Hail to the Victors!)
Historic buildings in Detroit
Berry farms
Here is what Chat GPT came up with
5-Day Michigan Itinerary: Traverse City to Detroit
Day 1: Wednesday – Arrival in Traverse City
Arrival in Traverse City (mid-day)
Accommodation: Check into your hotel or vacation rental. Options include places near downtown Traverse City for easy access to the water and dining spots.
Lunch: Grab a bite at The Towne Plaza or The Filling Station for a casual local lunch.
Afternoon: Sleeping Bear Dunes
Head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for your first taste of Michigan’s natural beauty. Hike the Dune Climb for stunning views of Lake Michigan. If you're up for it, take the scenic drive along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive to catch breathtaking panoramic views.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider kayaking on Crystal Lake or Lake Michigan (there are several rental shops in the area).
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at The Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor for a laid-back atmosphere and delicious food. If you're craving a more upscale experience, try The Homestead resort dining.
Day 2: Thursday – Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes & Berry Farms
Morning: Kayaking & Water Activities
Start the day with a peaceful kayak trip along Lakes Michigan or Crystal Lake, both excellent spots for water activities. Alternatively, consider paddleboarding or renting a boat if you prefer something different.
Lunch: Pack a picnic from The Farm Grill or The Cherry Bowl and head to a scenic spot near the dunes for lunch.
Afternoon: Berry Farms & Vineyards
After lunch, head to Tight Squeeze Berry Farm (seasonal) or Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor for a fun stop and some delicious fruit or local preserves. Traverse City is famous for its cherries, so don’t miss out!
Optionally, visit Black Star Farms for wine tasting and a relaxing time at a vineyard.
Dinner: Head to Traverse City’s Downtown for a meal at The Blue Tractor, offering both Michigan-inspired dishes and a cozy atmosphere. You can also try The Cook’s House for an intimate fine-dining experience.
Day 3: Friday – Drive to Ann Arbor via the Scenic Route
Breakfast: Start with a hearty breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe or Grand Traverse Pie Company before heading out.
Drive to Ann Arbor (4 hours drive): Begin your journey south, taking your time to enjoy the beautiful northern Michigan landscape.
Optional stop in Cadillac or Big Rapids for a brief break or coffee.
Lunch: Stop in Ann Arbor for a Middle Eastern meal at Frita Batidos or Ali Baba. Both offer flavorful, authentic dishes with a local touch.
Once in Ann Arbor, take a walk around The University of Michigan campus, a lovely spot to stretch your legs and take in the vibe of this university town.
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at Zingerman's Deli, famous for its sandwiches and excellent deli fare, or Monahan's Seafood if you're craving fresh seafood.
Day 4: Saturday – Explore Detroit
Morning: Ford Factory Tour
Drive from Ann Arbor to Dearborn, just outside Detroit, for the iconic Ford Rouge Factory Tour. This immersive experience lets you see the assembly line in action and learn about the history of the Ford Motor Company.
After the tour, grab lunch at The Henry Ford Museum’s café or explore the historic Greenfield Village next door if you have the time.
Afternoon: Shinola Store & Explore Detroit
Head into Detroit and stop by the Shinola Store to see their renowned timepieces, leather goods, and accessories. It's a great spot for both shopping and Detroit culture.
Take a stroll around Detroit’s Riverwalk and enjoy the views of the river and skyline. Alternatively, visit Belle Isle Park for some nature and relaxation.
Dinner: For dinner, head to Selden Standard, an American restaurant known for its inventive dishes or Murray’s for delicious, authentic Middle Eastern food. Detroit has an amazing Middle Eastern scene, so you’ll find many places to satisfy your cravings.
Evening: Detroit Tigers Game
Catch the Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park. Be sure to check the game schedule for any changes. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, a hot dog, and the great energy of the ballpark.
Day 5: Sunday – Last Day in Detroit
Breakfast: Have a laid-back breakfast at Dime Store, a cool diner-style spot serving excellent breakfast and brunch dishes.
Morning: Explore Detroit’s Cultural Sites
Depending on your time, explore Detroit’s iconic spots like The Detroit Institute of Arts or The Detroit Historical Museum for some culture and history.
You can also visit the Motown Museum to learn about the music history that made Detroit famous.
Lunch: Head to Lamy's Deli for a light lunch or try La Dolce Vita, a charming spot known for its pastas and Italian dishes.
Afternoon: Last-Minute Exploration
If time permits, visit the Detroit Sound Conservancy or simply wander through Detroit’s bustling neighborhoods like Greektown or Midtown.
Make your way to the airport for your flight or your next destination.
The alternate trip would be:
Day 1: Wednesday - Arrive in Detroit
Midday: Arrival in Detroit
Arrive at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW).
Pick up your rental car or take a taxi/rideshare to your hotel in downtown Detroit (recommendations: The Siren Hotel or Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center).
Afternoon: Explore Downtown Detroit
Woodward Avenue Shopping: Take a stroll along Woodward Avenue, known for its mix of boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Stop at Shinola for a Detroit-made watch or bag, or browse through Detroit Mercantile Co. for unique local goods.
Detroit Skyline: Walk to the Detroit Riverwalk for stunning views of the skyline, and explore Hart Plaza, which offers excellent views of the river and the city.
Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA): If you're interested in art, consider a quick visit to the DIA, which is home to impressive collections, including the famous Detroit Industry Murals by Diego Rivera.
Dinner: Authentic Middle Eastern Meal
Enjoy a delicious Middle Eastern dinner at Al-Ameer Restaurant in Dearborn (a 15-minute drive from downtown Detroit). It’s a family-owned gem that serves some of the best Mediterranean and Lebanese food in the area. Try the lamb shawarma or kabobs, along with a fresh tabbouleh or hummus.
Evening:
After dinner, explore Greektown, a lively district with great nightlife, or head to The Belt, an alley filled with murals and street art. If you’re into cocktails, visit The Sugar House for craft cocktails.
Day 2: Thursday - Ford Tour & Ann Arbor
Breakfast:
Start your day with breakfast at The Hudson Café in downtown Detroit. They serve great coffee and breakfast items, including pancakes and omelets.
Morning: Ford Tour
Head to The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn (about 20 minutes from downtown Detroit).
Take the Ford Rouge Factory Tour to see the Ford F-150 truck assembly line in action and learn about the history of the American automotive industry.
Explore the Henry Ford Museum to see an impressive collection of American history, including everything from presidential limousines to the bus where Rosa Parks famously refused to give up her seat.
Lunch:
After your Ford tour, grab a bite at Andiamo in Dearborn for delicious Italian fare or visit The Dearborn Inn for a more historical setting.
Afternoon: Drive to Ann Arbor
After lunch, drive the 40-minute journey to Ann Arbor.
Explore Ann Arbor:
Walk around the charming Main Street area, lined with local boutiques, bookstores, and cafes.
If you’re into art, stop by the University of Michigan Museum of Art (UMMA), or for something more outdoorsy, visit Nichols Arboretum, which has beautiful walking trails and views of the Huron River.
Dinner in Ann Arbor:
Head to Zingerman’s Roadhouse for a great, laid-back meal of comfort food made with fresh local ingredients, or The Chop House for a more upscale steak dinner.
Evening:
If you're in the mood for a live show, check out The Ark, a legendary music venue known for live folk and acoustic performances.
Day 3: Friday - Travel to Traverse City
Breakfast:
Start with breakfast at The Cottage Inn in Ann Arbor or Nick’s Original House of Pancakes for something more casual.
Morning: Drive to Traverse City
It's about a 4-hour drive to Traverse City from Ann Arbor. Consider taking a scenic route through Michigan’s countryside, passing through charming small towns like Cadillac and Kalkaska.
You can also stop at Crystal Lake (near Benzonia) for a quick stretch and a scenic view of this clear, freshwater lake.
Afternoon: Arrival in Traverse City
Check into your hotel or Airbnb in Traverse City (recommendations: Hotel Indigo Traverse City or The Bayshore Resort).
If time permits, head to the Traverse City Farmers Market (on Saturdays) for some local food and artisanal products.
Dinner in Traverse City:
Have a relaxing dinner at The Cook’s House, which serves seasonal, farm-to-table dishes with a focus on local ingredients, or The Manitou, which offers delicious seafood with stunning views of West Grand Traverse Bay.
Evening:
After dinner, take a walk along the Traverse City Waterfront to unwind and enjoy the evening breeze.
Day 4: Saturday - Sleeping Bear Dunes & Outdoor Activities
Breakfast:
Head to M-22 Grill for a laid-back breakfast with great local coffee, or visit Patisserie Amie for pastries and a lighter start to the day.
Morning: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Drive about 40 minutes to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Hike the Empire Bluff Trail, which is an easy-to-moderate walk that offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan from a high bluff.
Or, for a more adventurous option, climb the Dune Climb, one of the most iconic sand dunes in the area.
Lunch:
After hiking, head to The Boathouse in Glen Arbor for a relaxing lunch with beautiful views of the lake. Try their fresh whitefish or fish tacos.
Afternoon: Kayaking on Lake Michigan
Rent kayaks or paddleboards from Crystal River Outfitters in Glen Arbor or Lake Michigan Shore and spend a couple of hours paddling along the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan.
Alternatively, take a boat tour to see more of the beautiful shoreline.
Dinner in Traverse City:
Enjoy dinner at Trattoria Stella for delicious Italian food in a rustic setting, or head to The Cherry Public House for local brews and a more casual dining experience.
Evening:
Take a sunset walk along West Grand Traverse Bay, or relax with a glass of local wine from Chateau Chantal Winery.
Day 5: Sunday - Berry Farm Visit & Departure
Breakfast:
Start your last day with breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe or Traverse City Pie Company for something quick and delicious.
Morning: Berry Farm Visit
If you have time and it's the right season (usually late summer through fall), visit a local berry farm like Bishop’s Orchards or The Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor. They offer fresh cherries, berries, and local products, perfect for taking home souvenirs.
Explore the farm or pick your own cherries, raspberries, or blueberries, depending on the season.
Lunch & Departure:
After your berry farm visit, enjoy a quick lunch in Traverse City before heading to the airport.
Grab a bite at The Flying Noodle or The Blue Tractor for a casual meal before your departure.
Midday: Head to Traverse City Cherry Capital Airport (TVC)
Head to the airport for your midday flight.
Summary of Itinerary
Wednesday: Arrive in Detroit, explore Woodward Avenue, skyline, and have a Middle Eastern dinner at Al-Ameer.
Thursday: Ford Tour in Dearborn, lunch, explore Ann Arbor, dinner at Zingerman’s Roadhouse.
Friday: Drive to Traverse City, check in, dinner at The Cook's House, evening stroll.
Saturday: Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes, hike and kayak, dinner at Trattoria Stella.
Sunday: Visit a berry farm (if time permits), lunch, and depart from Traverse City.
Statistics: Posted by SuperSaver — Thu Dec 12, 2024 7:57 am — Replies 4 — Views 239