Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Buckley, Michigan, to Stanwood, Michigan

Buckley and Stanwood, two small towns in Michigan, may not seem like the most exciting places to travel between, but the journey along the route is just as important as the destination. A road trip from Buckley to Stanwood can be a fun adventure, filled with breathtaking sights and unique landmarks. Along the way, travelers will be welcomed by cozy towns, gorgeous forests, and great food. The halfway point of Tustin, MI, is a great place to stop for a break and stretch your legs. Here are some of the highlights of this trip and the best things to do for the ultimate Michigan road trip.

A Tour of Traverse City

Traverse City is a charming town with a rich history and a unique mix of city and nature. There are many things to see and do in Traverse City, including visiting the Sleeping Bear Dunes, touring the Old Mission Lighthouse, and strolling through the Downtown area. The town is known for its cherry festival, which is held annually in June or July. With so much to offer, Traverse City is a must-visit on this road trip.

Interesting Fact about Traverse City:

Traverse City is known as the Cherry Capital of the World and is home to the National Cherry Festival.

Hiking in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a beautiful destination, with rolling sand dunes that offer amazing views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can take a short hike or a more challenging one to get to the highest point of the dunes and enjoy the stunning panorama. Besides hiking, there are many other activities, such as swimming, fishing, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

Interesting Fact about Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore:

The Sleeping Bear Dunes are said to be named after a mother bear and her cubs who swam across Lake Michigan to reach the area and were able to climb to the top of the dunes.

Visiting Ludington State Park

Ludington State Park is an incredible destination in Michigan, with miles of sandy beaches, dunes, and hiking trails. The sparkling blue waters of Lake Michigan, combined with the stunning natural scenery, make for a breathtaking experience. Visitors can take a guided kayak tour through the Hamlin Lake or explore the 5,300 acres of natural beauty on foot.

Interesting Fact about Ludington State Park:

Ludington State Park has recently been voted as the nation's best state park by USA Today readers.

Discovering the Mystery Spot

The Mystery Spot is a fascinating attraction in St. Ignace, near Mackinac Island, that provides an optical illusion that tricks the mind and the eye. It's a magnetic spot where gravity seems to be defied, and visitors can experience the thrill of feeling like they're standing on a wall. There are plenty of other cool things to see and do at the Mystery Spot, like the maze and the magic shop.

Interesting Fact about the Mystery Spot:

The Mystery Spot has been open for tours since 1955, and its origins are still unknown, adding to the allure of the attraction.

Crossing the Mackinac Bridge

The Mackinac Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in the western hemisphere and is a true engineering marvel. Crossing the 5-mile-long bridge provides a stunning view of the Mackinac Island, and the Straits of Mackinac. The bridge connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas of Michigan and is open to cars, trucks, and pedestrians. For visitors, it's a chance to experience an iconic piece of Michigan's history and admire some breathtaking views.

Interesting Fact about the Mackinac Bridge:

Five workers lost their lives while building the bridge, but it remains a testament to their incredible work ethic and dedication to this day.

Conclusion

The road trip from Buckley to Stanwood is around 105 miles and can be completed in a little over two hours. However, with so many incredible destinations along the way, why rush? The trip is perfect for a weekend getaway, and there is plenty to see and do for all kinds of travelers. Whether visiting the charming town of Traverse City, hiking in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or crossing the Mackinac Bridge, travelers are in for a treat. There are few places in the country where visitors can find such diverse natural beauty and so much to discover. The trip from Buckley to Stanwood is an unforgettable journey that offers a glimpse of the best of Michigan's treasures.