What better place to celebrate Independence Day than in Michigan? You are sure to encounter a variety of family-friendly activities all across the state. Friendly cities, gorgeous lakes, and charming small towns create an ideal environment for summer fun. Whether you prefer a quiet, lakeside retreat or immersion in a bustling city, you will easily discover the perfect property by browsing through cozy vacation rentals in Michigan. Without further ado, here are the top places to spend a 4th of July getaway in Michigan.
1. Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor is a large town of nearly 120,000 residents. Every 4th of July, the city comes alive with parades, fireworks, fun runs, and more. The Ypsilanti Independence Parade, the longest running 4th of July Parade in Michigan, features classic cars and marching bands. For an active start to your day, sign up for the Ann Arbor Firecracker 5K and Kids’ 100 Meter Dash. Once the sun goes down, enjoy the Boat Parade of Lights, which starts at Mac’s Marina. Use the map feature on Tripping.com to find a property in the center of the action.
2. Mackinac Island
Escape the hustle and bustle by traveling to serene Mackinac Island for the 4th of July. This charming destination– over 80% of which is part of the Michigan State Parks system– is full of kid-friendly activities that the whole family is sure to love. Celebrate the birthplace of the nation by visiting many historical sites, such as the site of Fort Mackinac and the Grand Hotel. On the 4th of July, this little island comes to life with festivities. Enjoy a historic performance during the Star Spangled Fourth of July, an American Picnic, or opt for a fireworks cruise. Classic colonial homes are available on Tripping.com to give your vacation that perfect Americana feeling.
3. Traverse City
The sandy beaches and clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay make it easy to soak up the summer sun in northwest Michigan. In early July, the city is bustling with the excitement of the National Cherry Festival. Activities include parades, pie-eating contests, dog jumping contests, free concerts, and more. At night, make sure to spread out a blanket at the Clinch Park Marina or Bryant and West End Beaches to enjoy a fireworks show! After a day of eating pie and strolling through the charming downtown area, relax in a sleek townhouse or an elegant waterfront home from Tripping.com.
4. Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids, a fun and easily accessible city on the west side of the state, is full of exciting summer activities for the entire family. Because Grand Rapids is so large, celebrations take place throughout the city. Pancake breakfasts, parades, and hot dog eating contests are only some of the 4th of July festivities that can be discovered. To enjoy the fireworks from the comfort of an air-conditioned room, check out Grand Rapids Museums Front Row for Fireworks, which also offers discounted food in the cafeteria. After a day of celebration, enjoy the peace and quiet and privacy of your own vacation home.
5. Empire
Empire is a peaceful escape in northern Michigan. Famous for its Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire is sure to provide endless entertainment for adventurous children and adults alike. Take advantage of the Alligator Hill system of hiking trails and take a night hike to a clearing with great views of fireworks around the bay. Tripping.com can help you find an idyllic, lakeside vacation rental to enjoy a relaxing 4th of July.
6. Saugatuck
Saugatuck, an award-wining small town with world-renowned beaches, is an idyllic taste of Americana living. Oval Beach has drawn international attention from magazines such as Conde’ Nast Traveler and National Geographic Traveler for its picture-perfect sandy shores and cobalt blue water. Soak up the sun or enjoy swimming, and celebrate America’s history by visiting the Old School House and the “Back in Time Garden.” This small town comes to life with parades, art exhibitions, outdoor concerts, and, of course, fireworks. Depending on your vacation style, the right rental can place you at the center of the action or tuck away in a rustic log cabin. Browse hundreds of photos on Tripping.com to dream up your Saugatuck vacation.
7. South Haven
This waterfront community along Lake Michigan has both a rich maritime and agricultural history. For visitors, this means that the opportunities for fun are nearly endless. Visit some of the many lighthouses, relax on the beach, go golfing, or pick your own blueberries at an orchard. Around the 4th of July, enjoy art exhibitions from local artists, a parade starting in downtown South Haven, and the renowned Light Up The Lake! Festival which features fireworks synchronized to music. A vacation rental gives you the convenience of staying in a home that’s close to everything you want to do with your family.
8. Isle Royale National Park
Who says you have to eat pie and watch fireworks to celebrate America’s birthday? Isle Royale National Park is a rugged and beautiful cluster of islands in Lake Superior, near the Canadian border. Since Isle Royale is a designated wilderness park, 99% of the land is undeveloped. Though there are no vacation rentals on the island, there are many to choose from in Houghton, Michigan, where the ferry departs. Enjoy the solitude and try hiking, kayaking, exploring the lighthouses, and browsing the gift shop. Could there be a better way to celebrate the United States than by enjoying its most exquisite natural lands?