What to do and see in Michigan, United States: The Best Lookouts

August 25, 2021 Yuk Petri

Think you need an ocean for a beach? Think again. There are miles and miles of sandy lakefront beaches in Michigan (thanks to the four Great Lakes that border it). The west coast of Michigan has especially nice beaches—try a rental in Muskegon, Grand Haven or Saugatuck. You won’t need a car when visiting Mackinac Island. In fact, they’re not allowed—this lovely Victorian resort town is pedestrian-only.
Restaurants in Michigan

1. Arcadia Overlook

Highway M-22, Arcadia, MI
Excellent
88%
Good
8%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 110 reviews

Arcadia Overlook

Reviewed By 206syedah

We stopped here on the way to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Because Pierce Stocking Drive and some other spots in the SBD area are closed (as of summer 2020), I would have to say that this is the best view of Lake Michigan at the moment. Parking is free, and we enjoyed a picnic here on one of the benches.

2. Au Train Point

Au Train Township, Au Train, MI 49806
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 7 reviews

Au Train Point

3. Detroit Observatory

1398 E Ann St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2051 http://bentley.umich.edu/about/detroit-observatory
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Detroit Observatory

4. Samuel Bassett Viewing Platform

Park Ave. Millie Hill Estates Dr., Iron Mountain, MI 49801 +1 715-255-0527 [email protected] http://www.rotaryimk.org
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2 reviews

Samuel Bassett Viewing Platform

Built by the Rotary Club of Iron Mountain-Kingsford in 2010, the lookout is perched at the top of Millie Hill and faces southwest. Offering incredible views of the community and 180-degree vistas that include the neighboring state of Wisconsin. In 2016 the platform was officially named for Samuel Bassett, Dickinson County's last surviving Civil War veteran who died in 1941 at the age of 99.

5. Topinabee Scenic Lookout

I-75 At: Topinabee Rest Area 407, Cheboygan, MI
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Topinabee Scenic Lookout

6. Castle Rock

2811 Mackinac Trl, Saint Ignace, MI 49781-9755 +1 906-643-8268 http://www.castlerockmi.com
Excellent
49%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
15%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 618 reviews

Castle Rock

Reviewed By 531maryc531 - West Salem, United States

A fun and relatively easy climb for some great views, as well as a fun photo of with Paul Bunyan. Cute gift shop as well.

7. High Rock Bay

Copper Harbor, MI 49918
Excellent
81%
Good
6%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
0%
Terrible
7%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 16 reviews

High Rock Bay

Reviewed By Roeskar - Wisconsin, United States

High Rock Bay is such a beautiful destination! It is certainly a challenge to get there, requiring patience and a good eye on the road/trail to make sure you don't damage your vehicle. I have been there many times in a 4x4 Suburban and have never had any issues, but you really have to pay attention! I have also been there many times on my adventure motorcycle, my preferred method of getting there. I wouldn't recommend trying it with a conventional car as you will bottom out in places, and there is usually a lot of water standing in the pot-holed road/trail. I've seen many four-wheelers and UTV's go there as well and that looks like great fun. Its not just the destination, but the journey! The views of the lake and of Manitou Island are beautiful, and walks along the rocky beach are a good way to stretch your legs before journeying back to Copper Harbor. Pack a lunch and have a picnic. Even though its cold most of the year, we usually take a dip in the lake if its a sunny day. They don't call it the Cold Water Caribbean for nothing!

8. Lookout Louise

Isle Royale National Park, MI http://www.nps.gov/isro/planyourvisit/mv-sandy-tours.htm
Excellent
38%
Good
50%
Satisfactory
13%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 8 reviews

Lookout Louise

Reviewed By thomast194 - Shelby Township, United States

The Sandy tour was a great experience. The boat ride and info from the captain was entertaining and beautiful. The park service guide helped point out history, wildlife, plants and other things that may have been missed. The view was spectacular. All for a modest price. The hike was challenging at points but still suitable. I would highly r3commend.

9. Blue Water Convention Center

800 Harker St, Port Huron, MI 48060-3011 +1 810-201-5513 [email protected] http://www.bluewaterconventioncenter.com
Excellent
67%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
33%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 3 reviews

Blue Water Convention Center

Located by the Blue Water Bridge with scenic views of Canada, the waterfront & passing freighters. Stroll on the boardwalk, rent a bike or visit the Thomas Edison Depot Museum from our property grounds. We also host public events such as Signature Chef, Comic Con, Railway Show, Arts & Crafts, Bridal Expo, Gun & Knife Show, RV & Camper Show & many more. Visit our website for upcoming event info.

10. Pine River Nature Center

2585 Castor Rd, Goodells, MI 48027-1502 +1 810-325-9106 http://Www.sccresa.org

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