6 Day Solo Roadtrip Itinerary: Worth Exploring the Upper Peninsula (A.K.A The U.P)?

Considering embarking on an epic Midwest Roadtrip? I did it for you! Grab some tea and some popcorn and embark on a 6 day solo roadtrip with me exploring Michigan’s Upper Penninsula.

Here’s my 6 day Itinerary:

Need to Know Before you Go

I’m hear for my solo girlies of culture. So if you want to know if this trip is for us? Yes, with some caveats of course.

• Check Your Gasoline Level Often
• Avoid Traveling while dark
• Be aware of the Demographics

Need Help Preparing For Your Trip?

Now let’s get into it:

Solo Road Trip through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Best Time of Year To For This Itinerary:

• The ideal time for this trip is from July to late summer.
  • The Midgeflies in the spring are unforgivable. They don’t bite and they wont harm you but they are incessently annoying. Also, if you’re visiting Mackinac Island, consider the cooler fall months, for a more pleasant experience.(Imagine an island with horses everywhere, who poop everywhere, in the warm summer months) Enough Said.

Day 1: Traverse City

Morning: Sleeping Bear Dunes

Start your day with a visit to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The drive from Traverse City to the dunes is scenic and sets the tone for the day. The park is known for its impressive sand dunes, hiking trails, and stunning vistas of Lake Michigan. I opted for the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. The views from the top are spectacular, with miles of sand dunes stretching out before you and the blue waters of Lake Michigan beyond. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can drive the , which offers equally breathtaking views with less physical exertion.

Afternoon: Back to Hotel to Relax

After a morning of exploring, and making a huge mistake of leaving my extra camera batteries,I headed back to my hotel, to relax and recharge. The resort is conveniently located on East Grand Traverse Bay, providing a peaceful retreat with beautiful waterfront views. Some downtime on the beach was just what I needed to recover from the morning as well as quickly get some work done.

Late Afternoon: The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

Next on my agenda was a visit to The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. I knew nothing about this activity before I picked it. I saw a cool picture of a tunnel and said why not. What I learned on this experience was informative as well as emotional

The stories of how people were deemed mentally insane or unstable seemed inhumane. There was a story of hope and amazing change in the history of how this hospital transformed into a vibrant community.

The architecture alone is worth the visit, with its towering spires and intricate brickwork. The Commons is home to unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. I took a guided tour to learn about the history of the building and its transformation, which was both informative and fascinating.

Take the Tour’

Evening: Dinner at Lil’ Bo’s

For dinner, I chose Lil’ Bo’s, a local favorite in Traverse City. This cozy restaurant offers a menu of comfort food with a creative twist. I opted for the World Famous Chili and buffulo wings. A pretty safe bet. The Chili alone is worth the visit. The amazong staff, atmosphere and live music made for a dining experience of chill vibes.

Evening: Front Street and Cherry Republic

After dinner, I headed to Front Street, the heart of downtown Traverse City. The street is lined with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. My main destination was Cherry Republic, a store dedicated to all things cherry.

Traverse City is known as the Cherry Capital of the World, and Cherry Republic showcases this with a variety of cherry products, including jams, salsas, and even cherry wine. I sampled everythig and everything was delicious, I sampled some cherry fudge and picked up a few souvenirs before calling it a night.

Hotel Stay:

During my exploration of Traverse City, I stayed at ParkShore Resort, ideally located on the shores of East Grand Traverse Bay.

This is a standard 3 star stay. I loved that it sat directly on the beach. If you’re staying on the 1st level you can walk from your patio onto the beach with is pretty cool.

I enjoyed waking up to stunning sunrises over the bay, relaxing on the private beach, and unwinding in the outdoor pool and hot tub.

The onsite restaurant provided delicious meals with local flavors, complemented by excellent hospitality from the resort staff. ParkShore Resort was the perfect base for experiencing Traverse City’s attractions, and I highly recommend it for anyone seeking a peaceful and memorable stay in the area.

Day 2: Traverse City

Morning: Work

The next morning, I spent some time catching up on work. One of the benefits of traveling solo is the flexibility to balance work and exploration. I found a quiet corner in the hotel with a view of the bay and got some work done before heading out for the day.

Afternoon: Old Mission Peninsula Vineyard Hopping

In the afternoon, I set off for a drive through Old Mission Peninsula, a scenic area known for its vineyards and wineries. The peninsula is dotted with family-owned wineries offering tastings and tours.

My first stop was Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, where I indulged in a wine and chocolate pairing. The combination of fine wine and artisanal chocolate was heavenly, and the vineyard’s picturesque setting added to the experience.

And then I hopped into my car because I didn’t do enough research and all the Vineyards close around 4-5pm. So keep that in mind if you plan on experiences that part of your trip.

Old Mission Point Lighthouse

Continuing my drive, I reached the Old Mission Point Lighthouse at the northern tip of the peninsula. This historic lighthouse, built in 1870, offers a glimpse into the area’s maritime history. The lighthouse was also closed when I arrived but I enjoyed hanging out for a bit enjoying the beach and taking a walk along the lake

Dinner: Slabtown Burgers

For dinner, I headed to Slabtown Burgers, known for serving some of the best burgers in Traverse City. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere and a menu featuring a variety of creative burger options. The first thing I thought when I saw this place was “How cool someone hada dream of owning a restaurant so they turned their house into a burger joing. Turns out I wasn’t too far off. I tried the “Slabtown Special,” a juicy burger loaded with toppings, and it did not -let me repeat- DID NOT disappoint.

I headed back to my hotel the next day ready to start the next day’s unknown adventures.

Day 3: Travel to St. Ignace

Morning: Travel to St. Ignace

The next morning, I began my journey north to St. Ignace. The drive took me through even more scenic, breathtaking landscapes and charming small towns,

Friske’s Orchard

My first stop was Friske’s Orchard, a popular spot for fresh produce and baked goods. I picked my dad up some delicious Chocolate covered cherries And for myself? A raspberry dark chocolate cookie, a cherry donut and a apple fritter. I could not resist. The orchard also has a great selection of locally made products, perfect for souvenirs.

Afternoon: Beach in Petoskey

Continuing my journey, I stopped at a beach in Petoskey. Mainly because I was a bit tires and wanted to search for Petosky stones before I made it to my final destination. This charming town on the shores of Lake Michigan is known for its beautiful beaches and Petoskey stones, unique fossilized coral found along the shoreline.

Pier in Mackinaw City

Next, I had few more hours of daylight and I knew how long it would take me to get to my hotel on the other side of the bridge so, I stopped at the pier in Mackinaw City. This small town is the gateway to Mackinac Island and offers stunning views of the Mackinac Bridge. I took a leisurely walk along the pier, grabbed some fudge and gelato from Sweet Spot and took a quik walk along the waterfront taking in the sights and sounds.

Early Evening : Mighty Mackinac Bridge

Driving across the Mighty Mackinac Bridge was a highlight of the trip. This impressive suspension bridge connects Michigan’s Lower and Upper Peninsulas and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding waters. The bridge spans 26,372 feet, making it the fifth-largest suspension bridge in the world. Crossing the bridge felt like a symbolic transition, much like the changes in my own life.

Evening: Arrive in St. Ignace (Breakers Resort)

I arrived in St. Ignace in the evening and checked into the Breakers Resort. This charming beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms and stunning views of Lake Huron. Included with free breakfast, a 24 hour pool, 2 firepits on the beach and just steps from the sand.After a long day of travel, it was nice to relax and unwind.

Dinner: Clyde’s Drive-In

For dinner, I headed to Clyde’s Drive-In, a classic 1950s-style drive-in restaurant known for its delicious burgers, fries, and shakes. I enjoyed a nostalgic meal in my car, a fun and unique dining experience

Day 4: Mackinac Island

Morning: Ferry to Mackinac Island from St. Ignace

The next morning, I took the ferry from St. Ignace to Mackinac Island. The plus side about taking the ferry from the St Ignace side, Parking at the pier is free for the day. Also, some of the moring ferries include a short tour underneath the Mackinac Bridge

Seeing the Mackinac Bridge from the water was a different experience altogether. The sheer size and beauty of the bridge were even more impressive from this vantage point.

The ferry ride was a scenic and relaxing start to the day, offering beautiful views of the surrounding waters and the Mighty Mackinac Bridge.

Afternoon: Mackinac Island and Great Turtle

Upon arriving on Mackinac Island, I hauled ass to get to the area that gives horsedrawn carriage tours of the island. The rumor is, they sell out before noon, Since I knew I would only be here for a few hours, I knew the tour would be my greates aopportunity to explore the island quickly.

Cars are not allowed on the island, making bikes or horses the primary mode of transportation

I bought a ticket that including a drop off at the butterfly farm. I thought this was a museum as wasn’t prepared for real butterflies. But I got pictures just for my loyal readers.

I rode around the island, taking in the historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and scenic views.

After a few hours of exploring, I stopped at the Great Turtle Brewery and Distillery for lunch and sampled some of their local brews.

Evening: Travel to Sault Ste. Marie (Super 8)

In the evening, I took the ferry back to St. Ignace and then drove to Sault Ste. Marie. Becasue I booked my accomadations last min, I had to into the Super 8 hotel for the night. The hotel offered basic amenities but was clean and comfortable, doable for a short stay.

Day 5: Tahquamenon Falls and Munising

Morning: Travel to Tahquamenon Falls

The next morning after snapping a few quick pictures in Saulte Ste Marie, I drove to Tahquamenon Falls State Park, home to Michigan’s largest waterfall. The Upper Falls are particularly impressive, with a drop of nearly 50 feet and a width of 200 feet. The park offers several hiking trails, providing different perspectives of the falls. I spent the morning exploring the trails and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Some of the viewing areas require you to walk up and down stairs. Beware. If you go down you have to come back up.

Afternoon: Travel to Munising for Pictured Rocks Lakeshore Cruise

In the afternoon, I traveled to Munising for a Pictured Rocks Lakeshore Cruise. The cruise lasted 2-3 hours and offered stunning views of the colorful cliffs, sea caves, and pristine beaches. Take the Spray Falls Tour. The vibrant hues of the rock formations, caused by mineral deposits, were particularly striking against the blue waters of Lake Superior.

Tip: The best place to see Picutres with your eyes in on the upper deck. The best place to get stunning photos is on the lower deck. My recommendation, Start with the lowere deck because everyone with rush to the upper deck first. it’s very windy when you’re going 35mph on the lake and on the way back people will start to migrate to the lower decks. That way you will have already gotten the best photo’s and you can spend the second part of your trip enjoyin the view.

Evening: Travel to Marquette to stay at Landmark IN. The most charming hotel I’ve ever been in. It looks like a small town bed and breakfast. Bonus: My room included a beautiful view of the lake:

Tip: Everyon stops serving food at 9pm so if you’re looking to eat at a restuarant do it before then. I ended up eating fast food at Yoop Coop.

Day 6: Upper Peninsula Adventure Continues

Morning: Kitch-iti-Kipi (Big Spring)

I started the day early to visit Kitch-iti-Kipi, also known as Big Spring. Located in Palms Book State Park near Manistique, Michigan, Kitch-iti-Kipi is Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. Although it was rainin, the spring is crystal clear. The raft across the river is self-operated. So someone from the people on the raft has to be in charge of turning the wheel. It’s not light. I had help from my little friend. Our group of 15, rafted across its surface to view its depths and the underwater formations. It’s a serene and beautiful natural attraction that’s well worth the visit.

(If you’re into GeoCachingCheck out this spot.)

After spending a couple of hours at Kitch-iti-Kipi, marveling at the clarity of the water and the tranquility of the surroundings, I continued my journey south, heading home.

Conclusion

My solo journey through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula was filled with memorable experiences, from exploring sand dunes to crossing historic bridges and savoring local cuisine. Each day brought new adventures and opportunities to connect with nature and history.

As I traveled back south towards home, I carried with me not only souvenirs and photographs but also a renewed sense of independence, resiliance and curiosity.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, the UP offers something for every traveler. I hope my journey inspires you to embark on your own adventure and discover the beauty and charm of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Safe travels!