Ultimate Autumn Michigan Fall Road Trip
A road trip in Michigan can be downright amazing, but it requires careful planning. We will follow Michigan's biggest road, US 131, for this one; out of its 269.96-mile run, just 0.64 miles extend into Indiana. Along the way, we'll check out some scenic stops, some major attractions, and a few good places to grab a bite on your way along. So fire up your GPS and prepare for an amazing weekend with great stops on a Michigan fall road trip.
Country Table, White Pigeon, MI
Start your amazing road trip with breakfast at the Country Table in White Pigeon. Near the beginning part of your trip, the Country Table is a well-known stop for locals looking for a good meal to kick off the day. With your choice of 12 different omelets—including the eponymous Country Table Omelet which includes potatoes and a coat of sausage gravy—steak and eggs, and everything served with your choice of toast or pancake, you'll have a stick-to-your-ribs breakfast that will readily hold you to lunch.
Hidden Marsh Sanctuary, Three Rivers, MI
Take a quick drop off 131 at Three Rivers to check out Hidden Marsh Sanctuary, a 38-acre property with simple forested trails. A public preserve, it's open dawn to dusk, so those who want to walk off some of that breakfast will be able to do so here. A variety of wood species are on hand here, and beaver have been routinely spotted in the move from the Portage River to Hoffman Pond. There's even the remains of a nursery in place, which mean some unusual trees like a Japanese spindle tree on hand.
Yankee Springs Recreation Area, Middleville, MI
Chances are you're eager for a good long hike after that burger, beer, and the remnants of breakfast, so let the Yankee Springs Recreation Area take over. Not far off from Shelbyville, Yankee Springs covers a combined 5,209 acres of ground, with over 30 miles of hiking trails available. With nine lakes on hand, there's also fishing and swimming available, though it might be a cold swim given the time of year. Still, for a long hike in Michigan woods during fall, Yankee Springs will certainly provide.
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Reed City Evergreen Festival, Reed City, MI
Join the Reed City Area Chamber for a night of holiday festivities at the Reed City Evergreen Festival. Enjoy the lighted downtown parade, tree lighting ceremony, hot cocoa and cookies, and a craft show. Don't miss out on the fun.
The Winchester, Grand Rapids, MI
You've just had one amazing day, and now you're looking for a bit of a rest. Don't worry—we're stopping for the night in Grand Rapids. But before we call it a day, we're hitting the Winchester—shades of “Shaun of the Dead”—a place with 16 different drinks on draft from the Left Hand Milk Stout to the Franziskaner Hefeweizen. Throw in red and white wines, various bottles and a slate of cocktails—not to mention food if you're hungry—and the Winchester will be the slice of fried gold you can only get in Michigan.
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Amway Grand Plaza, Grand Rapids, MI
Now, we know you're beat. We're going to get a room for the night, and hopefully you made your reservations at the Amyway Grand Plaza. The rooms here run the gamut from "historic to contemporary" and “modest to magnificent.” Combining 1920s charm and modern-era elegance, you'll have 682 rooms to choose from. With or without a river view, or even one of the luxury suites in the 29-story Glass Tower, you'll have a staggering array of rooms, options and amenities to choose from here, allowing you to peel off your shoes and settle in for a good night's rest.
Huron-Manistee National Forest, Cadillac, MI
After you’ve filled up your belly, take a drive to the Huron-Manistee National Forest to finish off your road trip. During the fall, this forest comes to life with vibrant reds and oranges. This stunning palette of colors will take your breath away.
Key Insights at a Glance
- US 131 is Michigan's biggest road, with just 0.64 miles extending into Indiana.
- Country Table in White Pigeon is a great spot for breakfast with a variety of omelets and hearty meals.
- Hidden Marsh Sanctuary in Three Rivers offers forested trails and wildlife spotting opportunities.
- Yankee Springs Recreation Area in Middleville provides hiking trails and lakes for fishing and swimming.
- Reed City Evergreen Festival in Reed City offers holiday festivities including a lighted parade and craft show.
- The Winchester in Grand Rapids is a unique bar with a variety of drinks and food options.
- Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids offers a range of room options from historic to contemporary for a comfortable stay.
- Huron-Manistee National Forest in Cadillac is a stunning spot to see vibrant fall colors.
