By Celia Kauth
With its beautiful weather and vast natural beauty, Michigan is an ideal destination to explore during the summer months. Dozens of quaint towns line the coast, and there are a wide range of festivals, events, and cities to peruse this summer.
For those visiting Michigan with no financial constraints, there are a diverse array of opportunities to splurge on your vacation; from the many boutiques, art galleries, and outdoor activities, there are plenty of ways to indulge!
For those visiting Michigan on a budget, there are still a variety of ways to enjoy your stay while being mindful of your budget! Check out our list of the top 3 ways to have FREE fun during your visit to scenic Michigan this summer!
- Take advantage of the public beaches With multiple free, pristine public beaches dotting the west coast of Michigan, there is no shortage of fun to be had in the Michigan sunshine! Pack a lunch or some treats, bring a blanket, and relax as you listen to the crashing of Lake Michigan’s waves! Don’t forget your favorite book, floaties, or sunblock; the beaches of western Michigan rival any ocean, and you will effortlessly forget that you are not away on a tropical vacation!
- Create your own gallery walk Michigan is known for its many small art galleries! At some galleries, the artists themselves often visit, or even manage the gallery! For art lovers, create an itinerary of art galleries based on your art preferences, or choose random galleries to have some fun! Visit these galleries at your leisure. Wander the showrooms. Chat with the curator. Pick your favorite pieces, or learn about a style of art you didn’t know existed! With so many galleries in western Michigan, you will surely find some fun as you admire the art!
- Wander a Michigan festival or fair With so many interesting festivals and fairs taking place in the summer months, take in the sights and smells as you venture to several different events! Many of these events offer free tutorials, live music, and free exhibits, and you can spend hours frolicking through one of Michigan’s many festivals and fairs! Visit the National Asparagus Festival in Hart, the Caribbean Festival in Battle Creek, or the National Baby Food Festival in Fremont for an adventure you will not forget.
Spending time in Michigan does not require an endless budget, and with these three activities, you will undoubtedly have fun and make memories during your summer excursion! There is something for everyone in West Michigan, and we are confident that you will enjoy your visit as you partake in one of Michigan’s many free activities!