If you have some extra time during your trip, a visit to Mackinac Island is a beautiful way to spend a day! The island is car-free, so you’ll get around by bike, horse-drawn carriage, or on foot.

To get there, ferries run regularly from St. Ignace and Mackinaw City, with the ride taking about 15–20 minutes across the Straits of Mackinac. Once you arrive, you can rent a bike and ride the scenic 8.2-mile loop around the island, stop at historic Fort Mackinac for panoramic views, or wander downtown to sample the famous fudge shops. A visit to the Grand Hotel and its iconic front porch is a favorite for many, and natural landmarks like Arch Rock offer stunning photo opportunities.

Whether you spend just an afternoon or make it an overnight stay, Mackinac Island is a unique Michigan experience we highly recommend!

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Just an hour from Escanaba, Pictured Rocks is renowned for its towering cliffs, vibrant rock formations, waterfalls, and breathtaking views of sparkling Lake Superior. You can explore by hiking along the shoreline or take a boat cruise to see the dramatic scenery up close.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

About two hours away, this park is home to Michigan’s largest waterfall, the majestic Upper Falls, as well as the picturesque Lower Falls. It’s a breathtaking spot to walk, take photos, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula.

Kitch-iti-Kipi

Known as “The Big Spring,” Kitch-iti-Kipi is just an hour from Escanaba and offers crystal-clear turquoise water unlike anywhere else. Visitors can ride a self-propelled raft across the spring and peer straight down into its fascinating underwater world.

Presque Isle Park

Roughly two and a half hours away in Marquette, this park is a favorite for its scenic loop drive, wooded trails, and beautiful lake views. For the adventurous, Black Rocks offers cliff jumping into the chilly waters of Lake Superior.

Mackinac Island State Park

About two and a half hours from Escanaba, Mackinac Island feels like a step back in time. With Victorian-era charm, horse-drawn carriages, and car-free streets, it’s the perfect place to stroll, explore, and soak in Michigan’s most iconic island experience.

Lake Shore Drive & Ludington Park

Lake Shore Drive in Escanaba is a scenic route that follows the city’s main coastal park, Ludington Park. The mile-long park, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, especially in the summer.

Recreation: The park offers a wide range of recreational opportunities, including a self-guided fitness circuit, lighted tennis courts, and sand volleyball courts.

Walking & Biking: A paved, easy-to-navigate path runs along the shoreline, connecting the park to the beach and Aronson Island.

Aronson Island: Linked directly to Ludington Park, Aronson Island features a natural park setting, a boat launch, and a barrier-free fishing pier.

Escanaba Marina: The city’s natural harbor provides boaters with fuel, electricity, showers, and rental bikes, as well as a convenient boat launch.

Historical Landmarks: Next to the marina, visitors can explore the Delta County Historical Museum and the historic Sand Point Lighthouse.