Fall in Michigan: The Perfect Family Getaway
Written By: Shamika Sanders
The picturesque fall foliage in Michigan and scenic views of the Great Lakes from the peninsula are well-documented, but – with sights so beautiful – you need to see them for yourself. I have an idea: pack up the kids for a quick road trip. Michigan is stunning year-round, but there’s a charm around the fall season that makes the state a main tourist attraction.
Michigan native and creative producer Sara Ketchum lived in Michigan for over 20 years. She loves Michigan in the fall because “the state has so much to offer,” she said.
During the fall, Michigan is filled with family-friendly festivals and outdoor events that highlight the best aspects of the state during autumn. From apple orchards and pumpkin patches to seasonal wines, “the Great Lakes State” has something for everyone at every age.
“You can't beat an apple cider donut, fresh and hot from the cider mill. The kind that leaves the grease on the bag,” Ketchum described. “Michigan is known for its apples and cherries, which means you get to enjoy seasonal wines and delectables. Traveling up north to the cabins of Traverse City is a must on your fall bucket list. I love this time of year because you can see the state in all its glory, and there's no shortage of harvest or Halloween festivals. We get out in our best flannel and hoodies and make the most of the season.”
If you’re planning a trip to Michigan during their festival season, be prepared to dress in layers. With crisp and sunny weather, hoodies, jackets and sweaters are the vibe. According to Ketchum, “Some of the best views for the fall are near the water, which can be kind of cold, so remember to dress cozy and bring your favorite blanket.”
Family-Friendly Michigan Festivals
Every year, Michigan welcomes the fall with an array of festivals across the state’s vast landscape. The Belle Isle Park Harvest Festival is popular among families for its kid-friendly activities like face painting, hayrides, crafts and fall treats.
“I recommend families check out the Harvest Festival on Belle Isle in Detroit,” said Ketchum. “It's very accessible to those who live in the city, and it's a fun destination for those traveling to the city who can explore more of downtown Detroit. The city has a different energy than in the past. It's bustling with opportunity and culture, and it's reflected in the program offerings at Belle Isle. I love the bonfires, pumpkin paintings and the local food vendors that come out. I also love the educational element because the state park showcases all the different nature and adventure programs that they offer for adults and children. You get to learn something new every time. But the festival is a wholesome way to enjoy the family and see what this city has to offer.”
Another great family-friendly festival is the Sleeper State Park Harvest Festival, located in Michigan’s “Thumb” on the shores of Lake Huron. Campers are encouraged to decorate their campsite with enchanting and festive embellishments and take part in on-site activities including trick-or-treating and other fun camping activities like canoeing, stargazing, horseback riding and cooking s’mores over an open fire.
Michigan Parks To Visit
Belle Isle is a popular place for travelers, with breathtaking views of Detroit and a 985-acre island park. It offers many enjoyable family excursions like the Belle Isle Aquarium, the Belle Isle Conservatory, the Belle Isle Nature Center, the James Scott Memorial Fountain and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum.
As a little girl, Ketchum enjoyed going to Belle Isle for the fireworks, the beach and family picnics. She developed a new appreciation for the isle as an adult. “It brings back so many good memories with my family. And now I can create my own memories with my family and friends. There's an updated golf range, water sports, volleyball courts and plenty of space to just gather with friends and family. It's a mini getaway because it's an island escape but with accessibility.”
She added, “I enjoy being by the water, no matter the season. On the island, you can bike, walk trails, enjoy some water sports, plan a chill picnic or just take in the views of the Detroit River. I often ride my bike from my house to the park, taking in the views from the Detroit Riverwalk that connects to the island.”
According to Ketchum, “Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is another fantastic choice for a fall visit.”
“The park is located along Lake Michigan's northeastern shore and offers stunning views of fall foliage, expansive sand dunes and clear blue waters. It's an ideal destination because it offers a mix of outdoor activities, including hiking, scenic drives and great photo ops. Nearby are two of my favorites. Glen Arbor is a cute town with restaurants and shopping for the family. And the dunes are in the Leelanau Peninsula, which is home to some very nice, award-winning wineries. And during the fall you can taste some seasonal favorites.”
With fall on the horizon, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in the Upper Peninsula remains on Ketchum’s bucket list. “I want to see the cliffs and waterfalls that I've heard are stunning. And the forests are so colorful during this time of year.” As a proud homegrown native to the state of Michigan, to hear Sara mention places that are still on her personal visit list assured me one undeniable fact…Michigan has so much to offer that no matter how long you visit, you will always have a need to return.