Teeming with scenic shorelines, iconic woodlands, and stunning sand dunes, the Michigan state parks are excellent places for those seeking adventure. And on our side of the “Great Lakes State,” the state parks are numerous. Discovery is undoubtedly one of the pillars of a successful vacation, and West Michigan poses an inviting opportunity for exploration. And just in time to shake off the winter blues, Unsalted Vacation Rentals is pleased to offer a comprehensive collection of rental homes for you to find the perfect base camp for an exciting getaway.
Before you hit the open road, be sure to get yourself a Michigan State Park Recreation Passport either online or at one of the many park locations. Not only will the passport grant you parking access to all the Michigan state parks, but the proceeds will help manage some of our most treasured assets.
Holland State Park
As one of Michigan’s more popular parks, Holland State Park is worthy of your Lake Michigan bucket list. In the summer, you may find yourself fishing and boating off the shore, thanks to one of the accessible boat launches. Locals will tell you that this precious public space has one of the best sunsets in the Upper Midwest. It’s no secret that Holland State Park is a beautiful spot, so make sure you arrive early during peak season!
Hoffmaster State Park
As the home of the Gillette Sand Dune Visitor Center, Hoffmaster State Park is a fantastic place for those who want to learn more about Lake Michigan’s coastal ecology. And if you’re looking for picturesque views, the Dune Trail Overlook promises to provide breathtaking photo opportunities giving you a panoramic perspective of Lake Michigan. Don’t worry; there are several benches along the way! There are also 10 miles of other scenic trails.
Muskegon State Park
Easily one of West Michigan’s unique public areas, Muskegon State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground. The park features approximately 12 miles of maintained hiking trails and has a track chair allowing those who use wheelchairs to go off the beaten path. There are also about three miles of shoreline, making a perfect spot for picnics, swimming, and fishing.
Van Buren State Park
With grills, picnic tables, and a lovely swimming beach, Van Buren State Park offers a quintessential cookout spot. Moreover, guests can access the Van Burn State Park Spur Trail—a four-mile pavement trail leading to South Haven. Cyclists can go further thanks to the 14-mile trail connecting South Haven to Hartford.
Lake Michigan Summer Vacation Rentals
Now that spring and summer are just around the corner, visiting the Michigan state parks is something to put on your vacation to-do list. But before you create your itinerary, you’ll want to find a place to call home. So if you wish to stay near Muskegon, Holland, Manistee, or Grand Haven, Unsalted Vacation Rentals has an expansive assortment of vacation homes that will make exploration easy. To learn more or book your stay, visit us online or call 833-734-0090!
HyperText Markup Language (HTML) is the standard markup language for creating web pages and web applications.
As one of the world’s largest freshwater lakes, Lake Michigan is as iconic as anywhere else on the map. Wave-tattered piers, stoic lighthouses, and beautiful boardwalks all play an integral role in creating the ideal vacation environment for friends and family alike. And it doesn’t take long to realize that many West Michigan beach towns offer a certain charm that’s difficult to replicate—places where down-home midwestern sensibilities fuse with the laid-back coastal atmosphere are familiar on this side of the Great Lakes State. So as the region’s premier vacation rental provider, Unsalted Vacation Rentals would like to share three places to consider for your next Lake Michigan getaway.
The Best Lake Michigan Beach Towns for Summer
While there are certainly plenty of things to do year-round, summer in West Michigan presents a clear opportunity to explore the lakeside. And it’s not just the beaches! These “North Coast” communities are teeming with activities and attractions ranging from quaint shops to picturesque parks.
Grand Haven
Grand Haven, MI, also known as “Coast Guard City,” boasts two spectacular beaches near enough to walk to and from downtown. The boardwalk and trolley offer excellent ways to get around while visiting stores, restaurants, and the Grand Haven Musical Fountain—a must-see attraction. The Grand Haven Lighthouse provides a fantastic photo opportunity, and there are two piers on the north and south sides of the Grand River, perfect for a stroll or fishing.
Saugatuck
Home to one of the state’s—and arguably the nation’s—most beautiful beaches, Saugatuck, MI, is a gorgeous community drawing visitors from all over the Midwest and beyond. In addition to seemingly endless outdoor recreation options, this West Michigan beach town is a robust cultural hub thanks to the Ox-Bow School of Art. And with such stunning scenery at every turn, it’s no surprise that many artists from Chicago have spent time in Saugatuck to find inspiration amid Lake Michigan’s shores. The Saugatuck Center of the Arts is an ideal place to enjoy a play or unique exhibit.
Holland
Ideally situated between Grand Haven and Saugatuck, Holland is another Lake Michigan community known for its love for tulips—and of course, its beaches. Watch the sunset over the shoreline or stroll the charming downtown. Holland State Park offers picturesque views of the Holland Harbor, where you’ll find another historic lighthouse, and the Mt. Pisgah Dune Boardwalk provides patrons with panoramic city vistas. The Tulip Time Festival is a must for anyone who loves city celebrations.
Muskegon
Muskegon is undoubtedly among the best West Michigan beach towns, boasting two large beaches on the lake, the Michigan Adventure theme park, and an impressive art museum. Part of what makes Muskegon an excellent place to visit is the variety of attractions. From museums, theatres, and festivals to golf clubs, fishing charters, and bowling alleys, there’s something for everyone in Muskegon. They even have a planetarium!
Not Your Typical Lake Michigan Beach Town Vacation Rentals
These extraordinary West Michigan beach towns are just a few awe-inspiring and iconic communities you can visit while staying with Unsalted Vacation Rentals. And there’s no better time to begin thinking about your Lake Michigan vacation than now! Please contact us online and browse our collection to find out more!
We’re so excited to share our list of the best things to do in Manistee, Michigan with you! Michigan is known for its natural beauty, unspoiled coastline, and small-town charm.
Summertime in the the mitten state means warm, golden sand between your toes. Soothing, freshwater waves lapping at the shoreline. The gentle ripple and clang of a ship’s sail blowing in the breeze. There are miles of Lake Michigan coastline to explore during a summer-time stay in any one of Michigan’s beach towns — but there’s one hidden gem in particular that we don’t want you to overlook.
It’s a little town called Manistee. And it’s the ideal spot for a pure, unsalted Michigan vacation. But if you’re not familiar with the area, you might be wondering what there is to do. You’ve come to the right place! With a delightful downtown riverwalk, a gorgeous harbor, beautiful beaches, and much more, this self-proclaimed “Victorian Port City” has all you’ll need for a relaxing, entertaining, and memory-filled vacation.
The Most Popular Things to Do in Manistee, Michigan in Summer & Warmer Months
1. The Riverwalk
Strolling the Manistee Riverwalk is one of the most popular things to do in Manistee, Michigan because it follows the Manistee River through town. The walk winds behind the downtown businesses and ends at the beach, near the point where the river flows into Lake Michigan.
Along the way, you can take the stairs and pathways up to visit the restaurants and shops downtown. Or, you can stroll along and enjoy the boats gliding up and down the river.
And there’s a bonus for the history buffs— you’ll find 25 markers and plaques highlighting the history of the region as you traverse the riverwalk!
2. The North Pierhead Lighthouse
Another one of our favorite things to do in Manistee is to admire the lighthouse. Standing 39 feet tall and keeping watch over the shores of Lake Michigan, the North Pierhead Lighthouse protects and welcomes boats into the harbor.
Built-in 1869— and re-built in 1872 after a fire— it has a classic iron “catwalk” silhouette that we hear is rare in a working lighthouse. It also hosts some of the most breathtaking, Instagram-worthy sunsets in Michigan.
3. Visit Local Beaches (Among the Best Family-Friendly Things to do in Manistee, Mi!)
First Street Beach and Fifth Avenue Beach are both a short stroll away from some of our Manistee vacation home rentals. With playground areas, boat launch spots, food vendors, showers, picnic areas, and even free Wifi, these beaches have everything you need for a perfect day on the lake!
Douglas Park at First Street Beach, a grand beach and recreational zone in the region, boasts multiple amenities. It is well-equipped with numerous athletic fields, tennis courts, and basketball arenas.
You can find a longer list of Manistee beaches in our newly updated list of 11 Beaches in Manistee, Mi for Your Summer 2024 Bucket List .
4. Little Mac Suspension Bridge: A Must-Have for Your Manistee Bucket List in 2024
According to Manistee Tourism’s page for first-time visitors, the vision for the charming suspension bridge begin to unfold in the 19902. This delightful footbridge, tenderly known as “Little Mac,” was inspired by its much grander sibling, the Mackinac Bridge. Completed in 1996 by the U.S. Forest Service and Consumers Power Company, Little Mac is a 245-foot pedestrian haven gently urging you to explore its serene surroundings.
As you meander along its exquisite path, a stone’s throw from the enchanting suspension bridge, you’ll discover the Hodenpyl Dam. This remarkable feat of engineering forms part of Consumers Energy’s network of 13 hydroelectric dams, gracefully scattered throughout Northern Lower Michigan. Experience an unforgettable stroll as Little Mac guides you through awe-inspiring nature and serenity.
5. Arcadia Overlook aka ‘Inspiration Point’ in Manistee County
Last but not least, remember to stop and savor the views offered by the Arcadia Overlook! As you drive along the stunningly Scenic Highway M-22, you’ll find this popular scenic overlook at the highest point of the highway. (In fact, the steep incline with almost definitively cause your ears to pop!)
Once you reach the Arcadia Overlook by car, you’ll want to pull on your comfy walking shoes for the final 120-step ascent to the highest point in Manistee County.
Once atop the deck, there will be plenty of space to sit and relax, and there are even charcoal grills available.
Depending on the clarity of the skies, you might be able to see the North Pier Lighthouse and Manistee Harbor below. The gorgeous Arcadia and Onekama piers will likely be visible as well.
Once you make it to the top, there’s only one thing left to do – bask in the tranquil beauty of Manistee County.
Arcadia Overlook, or ‘Inspiration Point’
Popular Things to Do in Manistee, Michigan Year Round
The following ideas are popular year-round, since they generally involve staying inside!
6. The Downtown Shopping District Offers Plenty of Things to Do in Manistee, Mi During Winter Months
If you window shopping and dining out, then visiting downtown is sure to become one of your favorite things to do in Manistee, Michigan. Downtown Manistee has many quaint shops, boutiques, and cafes to explore. In fact, Manistee shopping is many vacationers’ favorite activity!
Take a peek inside Surroundings for candles, gifts, and fine cigars.
The Happy Owl Bookshop is the perfect spot to pick up a beach read— or for a lazy browse on a rainy day. The Outpost is a clothing shop and a full-service coffee, tea and espresso bar.
The recently restored 1930s-era Vogue Theater is the ideal spot to see the latest cinema releases. The Grand Theater seats 187, while a smaller screening room seats 45. The renovated lobby, lounge, and concession area combined with a state-of-the-art projection and sound system provide a truly amazing experience for film-goers!
7. The Food: Add These Restaurants to Your Manistee, Mi Bucket List!
For a small town, Manistee has a variety of impressive restaurants to explore.
Most are located along picturesque River Street, allowing you to slowly meander and continue shopping or catch a movie after dinner.
Or, even better— find some dessert!
Be sure to check out a few of these local-favorite spots while you’re in town.
This riverside restaurant features an extensive wine and craft beer list, artisan cocktails and farm-to-table fare. They serve an impressive array of Great Lakes fish that is artfully prepared by their chefs.
Blue Fish will also cook your catch. In other words, they’ll take your fresh-from-the-lake catch of the day and serve it up pan- seared or Parmesan-crusted and baked to perfection.
How cool is that?
Their motto is simple— Great Food. Great Beer. Great People.
Sounds good to us!
The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, and their beer and barbecue are outrageously delicious. The burgers are amazing, too. Try the Bacon Slaw Burger, the Animal Smokehouse with goat cheese and pork belly, or the Fried Green Tomato BLT. There are 12 taps behind the bar featuring house made beers and ciders, as well as two small batch taps for rotating special and seasonal beers.
North Channel also specializes in craft cocktails and carries various wines, so there is truly something for everyone.
Now That We’ve Covered Things to Do in Manistee, Mi: Let’s Find the Best Places to Stay!
There are so many reasons to visit Manistee, and so many things to do! Start your day savoring a cup of coffee in your private vacation rental. Spend a lazy afternoon at one of the three Manistee beaches, or get lost in time as you stroll through the local antique stores and cafes. BVW Unsalted Vacations offers multiple Manistee vacation homes, including Freshwater Cove, Bellavita, and Marina Place. These serve as the perfect launch pads for exploring all that the city has to offer.
Book your trip to ‘must-see Manistee’ today! Hopefully one item from this list of things to do in Manistee, Michigan got you a little more excited to visit this charming beach town.
Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Tik Tok, and Twitter for regular updates on available vacation rentals in Michigan!