163 BEST Things To Do In Michigan Memorial Day Weekend

Are you looking for the best things to do in Michigan this Memorial Day weekend?

Look no further!

This list of 163 activities will give you ideas on how to make the most out of your long holiday weekend.

From outdoor adventures, culture and history tours, foodie feasts and more - we have it all covered.

So get ready for a fun-filled weekend as we help you plan an amazing experience that is sure to create lasting memories!

1. Attend the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, which includes live music, parades, and cherry-themed food and drinks.

2. Explore Mackinac Island, known for its horse-drawn carriage tours, fudge shops, and historic Grand Hotel.

3. Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, with miles of sandy beaches and towering sand dunes along Lake Michigan.

4. Take a kayak or paddleboard tour of the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore near Munising.

5. Attend the Detroit Movement Electronic Music Festival, featuring world-renowned DJs and electronic artists.

6. Tour the Ford Rouge Factory in Dearborn, where Ford F-150 trucks are built.

7. Go fishing on one of Michigan's many lakes and rivers, such as the Au Sable River near Grayling.

8. Check out the Michigan State Capitol building in Lansing, which offers free guided tours.

9. Take a brewery tour in Grand Rapids, which has been named Beer City USA multiple times.

10. Visit the Holland Tulip Time Festival, where millions of tulips bloom in early May.

11. Attend the Great Lakes Equestrian Festival in Traverse City, featuring world-class horse jumping competitions.

12. Explore the art galleries and museums in Ann Arbor, such as the University of Michigan Museum of Art.

13. Take a scenic drive through the Upper Peninsula, including the Copper Country Trail and the Tahquamenon Falls Scenic Byway.

14. Go birdwatching at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, which is home to hundreds of species.

15. Attend a Detroit Tigers baseball game at Comerica Park in downtown Detroit.

16. Take a hot air balloon ride over the countryside near Frankenmuth.

17. Visit the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven, which showcases the state's maritime heritage.

18. Go on a wine tasting tour of the vineyards in the Traverse City area, known for its award-winning wines.

19. Visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, with over 200 acres of gardens and outdoor art installations.

20. Attend the Motor City Comic Con in Novi, featuring celebrity appearances and cosplay competitions.

21. Explore Isle Royale National Park, a remote wilderness area accessible only by ferry or seaplane.

22. Attend the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival, which features polka music, German food, and beer.

23. Go camping at one of Michigan's state parks or national forests, such as Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

24. Take a sunset cruise on Lake Michigan from St. Joseph or Holland.

25. Visit the Mackinaw City Historical Pathway, which includes historic landmarks and exhibits about the area's Native American and fur trading history.

26. Attend the Grand Haven Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony, honoring veterans and active military personnel.

27. Visit the Kalamazoo Air Zoo, featuring interactive exhibits and over 50 vintage and modern aircraft.

28. Take a horseback riding tour of the countryside near Traverse City.

29. Attend the Bay Harbor Vintage Car and Boat Festival, featuring classic cars and wooden boats on Lake Michigan.

30. Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, which has one of the largest art collections in the country, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Warhol.

31. Take a bike ride along the scenic trails of Mackinac Island, which has over 70 miles of bike-friendly roads.

32. Visit the Michigan State University Horticulture Gardens in East Lansing, which showcases a wide variety of plants and flowers.

33. Attend the Holland Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal products from local vendors.

34. Take a historical tour of the Detroit River, which includes stops at historic sites such as Fort Malden and Fort Wayne.

35. Visit the Michigan Military Heritage Museum in Grass Lake, which honors the state's military history with exhibits and artifacts.

36. Attend the National Asparagus Festival in Oceana County, featuring asparagus-themed food and drinks.

37. Explore the Mackinaw Trail Winery in Petoskey, which offers tastings of its award-winning wines.

38. Take a day trip to the picturesque town of Saugatuck, known for its art galleries, boutiques, and scenic harbor.

39. Attend the St. Ignace Memorial Weekend Arts & Crafts Show, featuring handmade crafts and artwork from local artisans.

40. Visit the Greenfield Village outdoor museum in Dearborn, showcasing vintage buildings and exhibits about American history.

41. Take a scenic drive along the Tunnel of Trees, which runs for 20 miles along the eastern shore of Lake Michigan.

42. Attend the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival, featuring parades, concerts, and tours of the island's many lilac gardens.

43. Explore the Tahquamenon Falls State Park near Paradise, home to two sets of waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.

44. Visit the Legoland Discovery Center in Auburn Hills, offering interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids.

45. Attend the Downtown Market Grand Rapids, which features a wide variety of locally-sourced food and drink options.

46. Take a boat tour of the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, which allows boats to pass between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes.

47. Visit the historic town of Frankenmuth, known for its Bavarian-style architecture, shops, and restaurants.

48. Attend the Michigan Renaissance Festival in Holly, featuring jousting competitions, costumed performers, and artisanal crafts.

49. Explore the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Whitefish Point, which showcases artifacts and exhibits about the many shipwrecks that have occurred in the area.

50. Take a scenic train ride on the Little River Railroad in Coldwater, which runs through the scenic countryside of southern Michigan.

51. Visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids, which honors the legacy of the 38th president of the United States.

52. Attend the Traverse City Wine & Art Festival, featuring local wines, art, and live music.

53. Explore the Michigan Firehouse Museum in Ypsilanti, showcasing the history of firefighting in the state.

54. Go on a sunset kayaking tour of the Grand River in Grand Rapids.

55. Attend the National Morel Mushroom Festival in Boyne City, featuring food and drink vendors, live music, and morel-themed merchandise.

56. Visit the Upper Peninsula Children's Museum in Marquette, offering hands-on exhibits and activities for kids.

57. Take a scenic drive along the M-22 highway, which offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and quaint small towns.

58. Attend the Kalamazoo Blues Festival, featuring live blues music from local and national artists.

59. Explore the Belle Isle Aquarium in Detroit, which features over 1,500 sea creatures and marine life.

60. Take a helicopter tour of the Mackinaw City area, offering breathtaking views of the Mackinac Bridge and surrounding scenery.

61 Attend the Ann Arbor Summer Festival, which features a wide variety of music, theater, and dance performances.

62. Take a tour of the Michigan State Capitol Building in Lansing, which offers free guided tours daily.

63. Visit the Upper Peninsula's Copper Country, which is known for its historic copper mining sites, lighthouses, and scenic drives.

64. Attend the Michigan Lavender Festival in Imlay City, featuring vendors selling lavender products, live music, and food.

65. Explore the Michigan Science Center in Detroit, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages.

66. Take a riverboat tour of the Grand River in Grand Rapids, offering views of the city skyline and downtown area.

67. Visit the Holland State Park, which offers sandy beaches, dunes, and camping facilities.

68. Attend the National Blueberry Festival in South Haven, featuring blueberry-themed food, drinks, and merchandise.

69. Explore the Keweenaw Peninsula, which is home to historic lighthouses, waterfalls, and copper mining sites.

70. Attend the Northern Michigan Antique Flywheelers Show in Boyne City, featuring antique farm equipment, engines, and tractors.

71. Take a tour of the Great Lakes Fishery Heritage Center in Traverse City, which showcases the history and culture of fishing on the Great Lakes.

72. Visit the Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills, which offers hands-on exhibits and planetarium shows.

73. Attend the Michigan Peach Festival in Romeo, featuring peach-themed food, drinks, and entertainment.

74. Explore the Tahquamenon Logging Museum near Newberry, which showcases the history of logging in the Upper Peninsula.

75. Take a sunset sail on Lake St. Clair from the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.

76. Visit the Castle Farms in Charlevoix, which features picturesque gardens, a hedge maze, and historic castle buildings.

77. Attend the Michigan Nordic Fire Festival in Charlotte, featuring live music, Viking reenactments, and Nordic-themed activities.

78. Explore the Ottawa National Forest near Ironwood, which offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.

79. Take a brewery tour of Bell's Brewery in Kalamazoo, which is one of the largest craft breweries in the country.

80. Visit the Michigan Historical Museum in Lansing, which showcases the history and culture of the state.

81. Attend the Bay Harbor Art Festival, featuring over 100 artists showcasing their work on Lake Michigan.

82. Explore the Detroit Zoo, which features over 2,000 animals from around the world.

83. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Mackinac Island State Park, which covers over 70% of the island.

84. Visit the Detroit Historical Museum, which offers exhibits on the city's rich history and culture.

85. Attend the Michigan Irish Music Festival in Muskegon, featuring live Irish music, dance, and cultural activities.

86. Explore the Upper Peninsula's Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, which offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views of Lake Superior.

87. Take a tour of the historic Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, showcasing the military history of the island.

88. Visit the Grand Traverse Bay area, which offers beaches, wineries, and scenic drives along the coastline.

89. Attend the Michigan Fiber Festival in Allegan, featuring vendors selling fiber art, workshops, and demonstrations.

90. Explore the Upper Peninsula's Shipwreck Coast, which is home to several historic shipwrecks and lighthouses.

91. Visit Belle Isle

Belle Isle is a beautiful island park located in Detroit. It offers stunning views of the skyline, a conservatory, aquarium, and a museum. There are also beaches, picnic areas, and hiking trails for visitors to enjoy.

92. Go on a brewery tour

Michigan has a thriving craft beer scene, with dozens of breweries throughout the state. Take a tour of some of the local breweries, sample their wares, and learn about the brewing process.

93. Attend the National Cherry Festival

Traverse City hosts an annual National Cherry Festival over Memorial Day weekend. The festival features cherry-themed food, drinks, and entertainment, and culminates in a grand parade.

94. Go on a hot air balloon ride

See Michigan from a new perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside. Many companies offer balloon rides, complete with champagne toasts and breathtaking views.

95. Visit Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

This beautiful outdoor museum in Grand Rapids features over 200 sculptures set amidst gorgeous gardens and water features.

96. Go zip-lining

Take a thrilling zip line tour through the forest canopy at one of Michigan's many adventure parks. Many tours include multiple zip lines and aerial bridges.

97. Walk the Mackinac Bridge

The Mackinac Bridge is one of Michigan's most iconic landmarks. On Memorial Day, the bridge is open to pedestrians, providing a unique opportunity to walk across and take in the stunning views.

98. Go horseback riding

Many ranches in Michigan offer horseback riding lessons and trail rides through scenic countryside. This is a great way to get outdoors and connect with nature.

99. Visit the Michigan State Capitol

Lansing is home to the Michigan State Capitol, a stunning historic building that houses the offices of the governor and legislature. Take a guided tour to learn about Michigan's political history.

100. Watch a minor league baseball game

Michigan has several minor league baseball teams, including the Lansing Lugnuts and the West Michigan Whitecaps. Catch a game with friends or family for a fun and relaxed day out.

101. Visit the Grand Rapids Art Museum

The Grand Rapids Art Museum is a world-class museum that features over 5,000 works of art, including pieces by Andy Warhol and Frederic Remington.

102. Go on a fishing charter

Michigan's Great Lakes are home to some of the best fishing in the world. Book a fishing charter for a chance to catch salmon, trout, and other species.

103. Attend the Detroit Movement Electronic Music Festival

This annual festival celebrates Detroit's rich electronic music heritage with performances by local and international DJs and producers.

104. Explore the Upper Peninsula

Michigan's Upper Peninsula offers stunning natural beauty, with rugged cliffs, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests. Visit places like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

105. Visit the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum

The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum is a fun and interactive museum that's perfect for kids and adults alike. Visitors can experiment with science, technology, engineering, and math concepts through hands-on exhibits.

106. Go on a sunset cruise

Many Michigan lakes offer sunset cruises, complete with dinner, drinks, and live entertainment. This is a great way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the state.

107. Attend a music festival

Michigan hosts several music festivals throughout the summer, including the Electric Forest Festival in Rothbury and the Faster Horses Festival in Brooklyn.

108. Visit the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum

Located in Grand Rapids, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum features exhibits on the life and presidency of the 38th president of the United States.

109. Go on a winery tour

Michigan's wine country is rapidly growing, with over 100 wineries throughout the state. Take a tour to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of Michigan's award-winning wines.

110. Visit the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation

The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn is home to over 26 million artifacts that showcase American innovation and ingenuity. Visitors can see exhibits on everything from automobiles to steam engines to pop culture icons like Barbie.

111. Go on a lighthouse tour

Michigan has over 120 lighthouses along its shoreline, many of which are open for tours. Learn about the history of these iconic structures and take in the stunning views from the top.

112. Visit the Detroit Zoo

The Detroit Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and bears. Visitors can also enjoy attractions like the Polk Penguin Conservation Center and the Wild Adventure 3D/4D Theater.

113. Go on a scenic drive

Michigan has many scenic drives, including the Tunnel of Trees on M-119 and the Great Lakes Circle Tour. These drives offer breathtaking views of the countryside and the Great Lakes.

114. on a kayaking or canoeing trip

Michigan has plenty of rivers and lakes for visitors to explore by kayak or canoe. Many rental companies offer guided tours and equipment rentals.

115. Attend the South Haven Art Fair

The South Haven Art Fair is a popular event that takes place over Memorial Day weekend. It features over 125 artists showcasing their work, live music, and food vendors.

116. Visit the Michigan Maritime Museum

The Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven celebrates Michigan's rich maritime history. Visitors can see exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the Great Lakes shipping industry.

117. Take a tour of the Upper Peninsula's waterfalls

The Upper Peninsula is home to over 150 waterfalls, many of which are accessible by hiking trails or scenic drives. Some of the most popular include Tahquamenon Falls, Munising Falls, and Bond Falls.

118. Visit the Cross Village area

Cross Village is a charming town located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Visitors can explore local art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants, as well as take in the stunning lake views.

119. Go on a bird watching tour

Michigan is home to over 400 species of birds, making it a prime destination for bird watchers. Many tour companies offer guided tours throughout the state.

120. Explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a beautiful natural area located on Lake Michigan. Visitors can hike the dunes, swim in the lake, and enjoy picnics on the beach.

121. Visit the Traverse City Film Festival

The Traverse City Film Festival is a popular event that showcases independent and foreign films. It takes place over Memorial Day weekend and features screenings, panels, and other events.

122. Go on a guided wildlife tour

Michigan is home to many species of wildlife, including black bears, moose, and wolves. Book a guided tour for a chance to see these animals in their natural habitats.

123. Visit the Michigan Firehouse Museum

The Michigan Firehouse Museum in Ypsilanti celebrates Michigan's firefighting history. Visitors can see antique fire engines, equipment, and uniforms, as well as learn about the history of firefighting in Michigan.

124. Attend the Bay Harbor Vintage Car and Boat Festival

The Bay Harbor Vintage Car and Boat Festival is a unique event that showcases vintage cars and boats. It takes place over Memorial Day weekend and features car and boat shows, parades, and other events.

125. Go on a golfing trip

Michigan has over 800 golf courses throughout the state, making it a prime destination for golfers. Some of the most popular courses include Arcadia Bluffs, Forest Dunes Golf Club, and Treetops Resort.

126. Visit the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum

The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Paradise celebrates the history of the Great Lakes shipping industry. Visitors can see exhibits on shipwrecks, lighthouses, and other maritime artifacts.

127. Go on a bike tour

Michigan has many scenic bike trails, including the Kal-Haven Trail and the Leelanau Trail. Many rental companies offer guided tours and equipment rentals.

128. Visit the Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum

The Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society Museum in Eastpointe features exhibits on military vehicles, weapons, and uniforms from World War I through the present day.

129. Attend the Motor City Comic Con

The Motor City Comic Con is a popular event that takes place over Memorial Day weekend. It features celebrity guests, panels, vendors, and plenty of cosplay.

130. Visit the Detroit Historical Museum

The Detroit Historical Museum features exhibits on the city's rich history, including its role in the automotive industry and its contributions to music and art.

131. Go on a horse-drawn carriage tour

Many Michigan towns and cities offer horse-drawn carriage tours, complete with knowledgeable guides and beautiful views of historic neighborhoods.

132. Attend the Holland Tulip Time Festival

The Holland Tulip Time Festival is an annual event that takes place over Memorial Day weekend. It features tulip gardens, parades, food vendors, and other events.

133. Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts

The Detroit Institute of Arts is a world-renowned art museum that features over 60,000 works of art from around the world. Visitors can see exhibits on everything from ancient Egypt to contemporary art.

134. Go on a camping trip

Michigan has plenty of state parks and campgrounds for visitors to enjoy. Camping is a great way to get outdoors and experience Michigan's natural beauty.

135. Attend the Downtown Rochester Art Festival

The Downtown Rochester Art Festival is a popular event that showcases the work of over 300 artists. It also features live music and food vendors.

136. Visit the Keweenaw Peninsula

The Keweenaw Peninsula is a beautiful natural area located in the Upper Peninsula. Visitors can hike through the forests,

137. visit historic sites, explore local art galleries, and enjoy stunning views of Lake Superior.

138. Attend the Mackinac Island Lilac Festival

The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival is a popular event that takes place over Memorial Day weekend. It features parades, live music, and beautiful displays of lilacs.

139. Visit the Michigan Women's Historical Center and Hall of Fame

The Michigan Women's Historical Center and Hall of Fame in Lansing celebrates the contributions of women to Michigan's history and culture. Visitors can see exhibits on women's suffrage, civil rights, and more.

140. Go on a scenic train ride

Many Michigan towns and cities offer scenic train rides through the countryside. These rides offer beautiful views of the natural scenery and historic landmarks.

141. Visit the Great Lakes Children's Museum

The Great Lakes Children's Museum in Traverse City is a fun and interactive museum that's perfect for kids. It features exhibits on science, technology, engineering, and math concepts, as well as creative play areas.

142. Attend the Art in the Park festival

The Art in the Park festival in Plymouth is a popular event that showcases the work of over 400 artists. It also features live music, food vendors, and activities for kids.

143. Visit the Michigan Legacy Art Park

The Michigan Legacy Art Park in Thompsonville features over 40 works of art set amidst a beautiful natural area. Visitors can hike the trails and see sculptures, paintings, and other works of art.

144. Go on a birding tour

Michigan is home to many species of birds, making it a prime destination for bird watchers. Many tour companies offer guided tours throughout the state.

145. Visit the Detroit Riverfront

The Detroit Riverfront offers stunning views of the Detroit skyline and the Detroit River. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, public art installations, and plenty of dining and entertainment options.

146. Attend the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival

The Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival is an annual event that takes place over Memorial Day weekend. It features traditional German food, music, and dance, as well as carnival rides and games.

147. Visit the University of Michigan Museum of Art

The University of Michigan Museum of Art in Ann Arbor features over 20,000 works of art from around the world. Visitors can see exhibits on everything from ancient civilizations to contemporary art.

148. Go on a fishing trip

Michigan's Great Lakes and inland lakes offer some of the best fishing in the world. Book a fishing charter or rent a boat for a chance to catch salmon, trout, bass, and other species.

149. Visit the Michigan Science Center

The Michigan Science Center in Detroit is a fun and interactive museum that's perfect for kids. Visitors can experiment with science concepts through hands-on exhibits and activities.

150. Go on a horse-drawn trolley tour

Many Michigan towns and cities offer horse-drawn trolley tours, complete with knowledgeable guides and beautiful views of historic neighborhoods.

151. Attend the National Asparagus Festival

The National Asparagus Festival in Oceana County celebrates all things asparagus, including food, drinks, and entertainment.

152. Visit the Detroit Historical Society

The Detroit Historical Society features exhibits on Detroit's rich history, including its role in the automotive industry, civil rights, and music.

153. Go on a riverboat cruise

Many Michigan towns and cities offer riverboat cruises, complete with dinner, drinks, and live entertainment. This is a great way to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the state.

154. Attend the Detroit Urban Craft Fair

The Detroit Urban Craft Fair is a popular event that showcases handmade crafts by local artisans. It also features food vendors, live music, and other entertainment.

155. Visit the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit features exhibits on African American history, culture, and contributions to society.

156. Go on a scenic helicopter tour

See Michigan from a new perspective by taking a scenic helicopter tour. Many companies offer tours over the Great Lakes, urban areas, and natural landmarks.

157. Visit the Michigan Historical Museum

The Michigan Historical Museum in Lansing features exhibits on Michigan's rich history, including its role in the Civil War and automotive industry.

158. Attend the Art on the Grand festival

The Art on the Grand festival in Farmington is a popular event that showcases the work of over 100 artists. It also features food vendors, live music, and activities for kids.

159. Visit the Cranbrook Institute of Science

The Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills features exhibits on science, technology, and natural history. Visitors can see dinosaurs, fossils, and other artifacts.

160. Go on a paddleboarding excursion

Paddleboarding is a fun and relaxing way to explore Michigan's lakes and rivers. Many rental companies offer guided tours and lessons for those new to the sport.        

161. Visit Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is a popular tourist destination, known for its historical sites, beautiful views, and fudge shops. Take a ferry to the island and explore by bike or horse-drawn carriage.

162. Tour Grand Rapids breweries

Grand Rapids is home to many craft breweries that offer tours and tastings of their beers. Enjoy samples of local ales and lagers while learning about the brewing process from knowledgeable guides.

163. Attend Detroit's Movement Electronic Music Festival

The Movement Electronic Music Festival in Detroit features live music from some of the biggest names in electronic music. It's also home to art installations, food vendors, and interactive activities equipment rentals.