Spring in Michigan is a time of transformation. As the snow melts away, the Great Lakes State bursts to life with blooming flowers, scenic hikes, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for vibrant festivals, stunning nature trails, or exciting city experiences, Michigan has something to offer in the spring.
If you’re planning a trip or just looking for things to do in Michigan in the spring, this guide covers the best activities and destinations across the state.
10 Best Things to Do in Michigan in the Spring
1. Visit Holland for the Tulip Time Festival
One of my favorite spring traditions is visiting the Tulip Time Festival in Holland, MI. The sight of millions of tulips in full bloom is absolutely breathtaking, and it feels like stepping into a vibrant painting. The town comes alive with parades, Dutch dancing, and delicious food, making it an ideal place to celebrate the beauty of the season.
I love strolling through the flower-lined streets and stopping at the local shops, all while taking in the colorful displays at Windmill Island Gardens and the Veldheer Tulip Farm. It’s a perfect combination of nature, culture, and community, and I can never get enough of the charm this festival brings every year.
One of Michigan’s most iconic spring events, the Tulip Time Festival in Holland takes place in early May. This Dutch-inspired celebration features:
- Over 6 million tulips in full bloom
- Parades, Dutch dancing, and cultural performances
- Scenic walking and biking paths at Windmill Island Gardens and Veldheer Tulip Farm
If you love flowers and a touch of European charm, this is a must-visit destination in Michigan in the spring.
2. Explore the Cherry Blossoms in Traverse City
Another spring highlight for me is the Cherry Festival in Traverse City, MI. The cherry blossoms in full bloom create a stunning backdrop for a week of celebration, and the town’s energy is contagious.
I love taking a scenic drive along the Old Mission Peninsula to see the orchards come to life while sipping local wine and enjoying fresh cherries. It’s a true celebration of the area’s rich agricultural heritage, and I always look forward to exploring the local events, from the lively parade to the beautiful outdoor markets.
Whether it’s the blossoms or the festive atmosphere, the Cherry Festival is an experience that never fails to make me fall in love with Michigan all over again.
Traverse City is famous for its cherry orchards, and in late April to early May, the cherry blossoms create breathtaking scenery.
- Take a scenic drive along the Old Mission Peninsula or Leelanau Peninsula
- Visit local wineries for spring wine tastings
- Enjoy outdoor dining as restaurants reopen their patios
The pink and white blooms make for incredible photos and a perfect springtime escape.
3. Hike and Chase Waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula
Spring is the best time to see Michigan’s waterfalls at their peak, thanks to melting snow. Some of the best waterfalls to visit include:
- Tahquamenon Falls – One of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi
- Munising Falls – A short hike with beautiful spring scenery
- Bond Falls – A hidden gem with picturesque cascades
The Upper Peninsula’s hiking trails also start to open up, offering breathtaking views without the summer crowds.
4. Take a Spring Road Trip Along M-22
One of my favorite ways to experience the beauty of Michigan in the spring is by taking a road trip along M-22. This scenic route, which stretches along the northwest coast of the Lower Peninsula, offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, charming small towns, and vibrant landscapes that change with the seasons.
In the spring, the rolling hills and lush greenery are a welcome sight after the long winter, and I love stopping at hidden gems like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and quaint lakeside towns such as Frankfort and Leland. Whether I’m enjoying a peaceful moment by the water, exploring a local shop, or hiking one of the area’s trails, M-22 never fails to remind me of Michigan’s natural beauty and is the perfect place for a spring getaway.
M-22 is one of Michigan’s most scenic drives, especially in the spring when the landscape turns lush and green. Along the way, you can:
- Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- Stop at charming lakeside towns like Frankfort and Leland
- Enjoy springtime hikes with fewer crowds
This is a perfect way to experience Michigan’s beauty before the summer rush.
5. Visit Mackinac Island Before Peak Season
Mackinac Island is magical in the spring. The island officially opens to visitors in May, offering:
- Fewer crowds than the busy summer months
- Lilac blossoms and colorful spring flowers
- Biking and carriage rides with cool, crisp weather
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy the island’s history and beauty before peak tourist season.
6. Go Birdwatching in Saginaw Bay or Pointe Mouillee
Spring is migration season, making it an ideal time for birdwatching in Michigan. Top spots include:
- Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge near Saginaw
- Pointe Mouillee State Game Area along Lake Erie
- Tawas Point State Park, known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest” for birding
Bring your binoculars and watch for warblers, eagles, and rare shorebirds returning north.
7. Attend the Flower Festivals in Detroit
Detroit embraces spring with gorgeous floral displays and festivals. Some highlights include:
- The Detroit Flower Show at Belle Isle Conservatory
- The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, featuring spring blooms
- Eastern Market’s Flower Day, where you can shop for plants and flowers
These events are a perfect way to enjoy the changing season in Michigan’s biggest city.
8. Experience Spring Fishing on the Great Lakes
As the ice melts, Michigan’s lakes and rivers offer some of the best spring fishing opportunities. Popular catches include:
- Steelhead trout in the Muskegon and Manistee Rivers
- Walleye fishing on the Detroit River and Lake Erie
- Coho salmon along Lake Michigan’s shoreline
Charter boats and guided trips are available, making it easy to enjoy Michigan’s world-class fishing.
9. Kayak Michigan’s Scenic Rivers
Spring is an exciting time to go kayaking, with higher water levels creating great conditions. Some of the best rivers for spring paddling include:
- Au Sable River – Known for its peaceful beauty
- Pine River – Offers fast-moving waters for adventure seekers
- Huron River – A great option near Ann Arbor with scenic routes
If you love outdoor adventure, spring kayaking in Michigan is a must.
10. Discover Wildflowers in Michigan’s Parks
Springtime in Michigan brings colorful wildflowers to the forests and fields. Great places to see them include:
- Pigeon River Country State Forest – Known for its trilliums and woodland blooms
- Hartwick Pines State Park – Features scenic hiking trails with spring flowers
- Kalamazoo Nature Center – A great spot for both wildflowers and birdwatching
Hiking through these parks in the spring offers stunning views and a peaceful escape into nature.
Conclusion
Spring in Michigan holds a special place in my heart. From the vibrant colors of the Tulip Time Festival in Holland to the breathtaking cherry blossoms in Traverse City, there’s no shortage of beauty and excitement during this season. I love the refreshing change in the air, the opportunity to explore the state’s stunning landscapes, and the chance to connect with local traditions.
Whether it’s a scenic drive along M-22, a visit to a hidden waterfall in the Upper Peninsula, or simply enjoying the fresh, blooming flowers, spring in Michigan always offers something new and magical. It’s a season that reminds me why I love living and traveling in this incredible state.
Spring in Michigan is full of beauty, adventure, and fresh experiences. Whether you’re exploring waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula, enjoying cherry blossoms in Traverse City, or attending the Tulip Time Festival, there’s no shortage of things to do in Michigan in the spring.
Plan your trip now and make the most of this vibrant season before summer crowds arrive!