There is a sense of hope and excitement that permeates the air in Michigan throughout the month of June. Summer is about to begin in earnest, and the lingering winds of winter have finally slipped away — which means that it’s time to start taking those epic, memory-filled day trips that we all love and live for.

Craving a quick Michigan getaway? These are some of the best June day trips in Michigan:

Cranbrook Gardens

Bloomfield Hills

Stretching across more than 40 acres in Bloomfield Hills, the Cranbrook Gardens include some of the most stunning displays of flora and fauna in the entire state. June is the perfect time to visit this attraction, which offers free, self-guided tours between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Wandering throughout this garden will feel a bit like stepping through the pages of a treasured fairy tale, as there are babbling streams, bubbling fountains, and impressive displays around every turn.

Oval Beach

Saugatuck

If you wake up on the perfect Michigan summer day — the kind of day that offers warm sunshine, gentle breezes, and endless blue sky — then you will want to pack up your gear and head to Oval Beach in Saugatuck.

Described by Condé Nast as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Oval Beach features iconic rolling dunes and crushing Lake Michigan waves, and there’s plenty of sand for everyone to play in and relax. Not to mention, there’s ample parking and a concession stand, making it an easy and convenient day trip in Michigan.

M Street Baking Company

Howell

Sometimes the best way to celebrate any occasion — or to take advantage of the fact that there’s no occasion at all — is to indulge in a sweet treat. Anyone with a sweet tooth in Michigan should head straight to historic downtown Howell, where you will find the M Street Baking Company. Tucked away in an unassuming downtown building, the M Street Baking Company has become famous for its larger-than-life shakes and iconic dessert creations.

Your June trip to M Street Baking Company would be incomplete without a Strawberry Lemonade milkshake, which is a strawberry lemonade flavored shake topped with two lemon Oreos, an entire Strawberry Shortcake ice cream bar, a mini cupcake and lemon-flavored cotton candy. Trust us, there’s plenty to share!

Lavender Labyrinth

Mears

For a day trip that is focused on peace, tranquility, and relaxation – and includes a sensory element — consider visiting the Lavender Labyrinth in Mears.

Located on the grounds of the Cherry Point Farm and Market, this labyrinth is open from early May until late October, though the lavender bloom peaks during June and July. Visitors can meander through the labyrinth to enjoy the serene scent of lavender as they meditate and contemplate.

Argo Cascades

Ann Arbor

If you are in search of family-friendly fun with a touch of thrill and adventure, head to the Argo Cascades in Ann Arbor for some river tubing fun. Located at the Argo Park and Nature Area near the Argo Park Canoe Livery, this popular spot is a favorite among the young and the young at heart.

Visitors can slide down the cascades on river tubes, enjoying a thrilling journey from the Argo Pond to the heart of the Huron River.

Milliken State Park

Detroit

Famously known as the first urban state park in Michigan, Milliken State Park is one of the most breathtaking and beautiful green spaces in Downtown Detroit. Even though you are just a few blocks away from the beating heart of the city, you will feel as if you have stepped into a peaceful, natural space.

With a walking path that winds along the river, a towering white lighthouse, and covered picnic shelters, you can easily spend an entire day exploring this 31-acre park. There’s shoreline fishing along the river, so don’t forget to pack your fishing poles!

Fishtown

Leland

Located between Traverse City and the Sleeping Bear Dunes is a tiny, preserved fishing shanty village. Fishtown in Leland would be easy to miss — but you would be remiss if you didn’t take advantage of the perfect June weather and make an effort to visit this historic village.

The Fishtown Preservation is a collection of fishing shanties and docks, many of which have been transformed into shops, businesses, and restaurants, allowing you to experience what maritime life was like on the Great Lakes while also enjoying the taste and flavor of Northern Michigan.

Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours

Sault Ste Marie

The Soo Locks are considered to be one of the most famous attractions in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and visitors from around the world flock to Sault Ste Marie to experience this engineering marvel in action.

However, the best way to truly experience the wonder of the locks is to embark on a Famous Soo Locks Boat Tour, which will take you on a historic journey throughout Sault Ste Marie, culminating with passage through the actual locks. There are snacks and beverages on board, so it’s a truly all-inclusive day trip in Michigan.

Fayette Historic State Park

Garden

While the pristine views of the Upper Peninsula have not changed too much over the centuries, life in modern Michigan certainly looks a lot different than it did during the 19th century. For a day trip that blends the scenic beauty of Michigan with the state’s rich and storied past, consider a visit to Fayette Historic State Park in Garden.

This park, which is located on the shores of the Big Bay de Noc in the Upper Peninsula, features a swimming beach, a modern campground, and a historic village.

The Fayette Historic Townsite features the well-preserved relics of a former industrial iron community, highlighting what life was like in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula throughout the 1800s.

Negwegon State Park

Ossineke

Comprised of more than 4,000 acres and stretching along the shores of Lake Huron for more than 8 miles, Negwegon State Park in Ossineke is an idyllic June day trip destination in Michigan.

While other state parks feature modern amenities and family-friendly attractions, Negwegon State Park is a rustic park that is best for backpackers, adventurers, and those seeking to get away from it all at the start of Michigan’s busy tourist season.

Turnip Rock

Port Austin

Often described as one of the most magnificent natural wonders in Michigan, Turnip Rock in Port Austin is considered to be one of the best kayaking destinations in the state. The only way to get to Turnip Rock is by water, which is why June is the perfect time to paddle to the rock.

It’s worth noting that the trip to Turnip Rock is a 7-mile journey, and it often takes between 3 and 4 hours to complete. It’s not recommended for inexperienced kayakers, due to the ever-changing, unpredictable conditions on Lake Huron, but local outfitters offer guided tours and experiences for those who want a little help along the way.

Bond Falls

Trout Creek

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is famous for its magical and mystical waterfalls, such as the well-known Tahquamenon Falls. However, if you are looking for a day trip this June that offers a bit more peace and privacy than other popular waterfalls, consider a visit to the Bond Falls in Trout Creek.

The spring thaw will ensure that the falls are full and lush, making June one of the best times of year to visit Bond Falls. Along the accessible boardwalk, you will discover 6 different viewing locations, ensuring that you get the best view of these incredible cascades.

Greenfield Village

Dearborn

Take a trip back in time this June, and visit Greenfield Village in Dearborn. As part of The Henry Ford complex, Greenfield Village is a living history museum that allows visitors to experience more than 300 years of life in America.

With properties such as Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park and the Sarah Jordan Boarding House, you can literally walk through the spaces where American history was made. During your day at Greenfield Village, you can grab a frozen custard, take a ride on a Model T, or play Victorian lawn games on the Village Green.

If you visit in June, you also may be able to:

• Sip tea at the Cotswold Cottage, which is open Thursday through Sunday.
• Watch a game of historic baseball on Saturday or Sunday afternoon.
• Visit the Motor Muster historic vehicle show, which takes place every June around Father’s Day weekend.

With a little something for everyone, Greenfield Village is the perfect family-friendly day trip in Michigan.

June is the Best Month to Take a Michigan Day Trip — Start Planning Today

Take advantage of the abundant sunshine and low humidity that defines June in Michigan every year, and start planning your Michigan day trip.

From family-friendly getaways to adventurous outings, you will find that these June day trips in Michigan will be the perfect way to kickstart your summer. Begin planning your next Michigan day trip today.