7 Day Trips From Birmingham, Michigan

Birmingham, Michigan, is a charming city with plenty to offer, but sometimes a day trip can be a refreshing change. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or unique shopping destinations, there are plenty of options within a short drive. This guide explores some of the best day trips from Birmingham, Michigan, including key attractions, activities, and tips for making the most of your visit.

Just under an hour's drive from Birmingham, Ann Arbor is a vibrant city known for its diverse artistic scene and beautiful natural surroundings. Home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor offers a mix of educational and recreational activities. Key attractions include the University of Michigan Museum of Art, where you can explore a vast collection of art from around the world, and the Matthaei Botanical Gardens, where you can wander through lush gardens and scenic trails.

Kerrytown Market & Shops provides unique shopping and dining experiences in a historic district. Activities such as kayaking on the Huron River allow you to paddle through the heart of the city while dining in downtown Ann Arbor, which offers a variety of culinary delights, from gourmet restaurants to cozy cafes. Parking can be challenging in downtown Ann Arbor, so consider using public transportation or arriving early.

A short 30-minute drive from Birmingham, Detroit offers a scene of history, culture, and innovation. Known as the Motor City, Detroit is home to numerous museums, parks, and entertainment venues. Key attractions include the Detroit Institute of Arts, where you can admire one of the largest and most significant art collections in the United States, and the Henry Ford Museum, which showcases the history of American innovation and industry. 

Belle Isle Park is a beautiful island park featuring gardens, a conservatory, and an aquarium. Activities such as exploring the Detroit Riverwalk provide stunning views of the Detroit skyline, while attending a Detroit Tigers game at Comerica Park offers a quintessential Detroit experience. Detroit is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. Take the time to explore areas like Midtown, Corktown, and Greektown.

Known as Michigan's Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth is a charming town about 90 minutes from Birmingham. This quaint destination is famous for its German heritage, delicious food, and festive atmosphere. Key attractions include Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store open year-round, and Frankenmuth River Place Shops, a Bavarian-themed village offering unique shopping and dining experiences. The Bavarian Belle Riverboat provides a scenic cruise on the Cass River.

Dining at Zehnder's or Bavarian Inn allows you to indulge in a traditional family-style chicken dinner while exploring the Frankenmuth Historical Museum, which offers insights into the town's rich history and German roots. Frankenmuth hosts several festivals throughout the year, including Oktoberfest and the Bavarian Festival, so check the calendar for special events during your visit.

Located about an hour northeast of Birmingham, Port Huron offers stunning views of Lake Huron and the St. Clair River. This waterfront city is perfect for a relaxing day by the water. Key attractions include Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, where you can climb Michigan's oldest lighthouse for panoramic views, and the Blue Water Bridge, an impressive international bridge connecting the U.S. and Canada. The Port Huron Museum features exhibits on local history and maritime heritage.

Activities like boating and fishing provide recreational opportunities on Lake Huron, while a beach day at Lakeside Park offers sandy shores and refreshing lake swims. Port Huron has several waterfront dining options, so consider enjoying a meal with a view of the water.

A little over an hour's drive from Birmingham, Lansing is the state capital and offers a mix of history and welcoming attractions. Key attractions include the Michigan State Capitol, where you can take a guided tour of the historic building, and the Michigan History Center, which features interactive exhibits on the state's past. Potter Park Zoo provides a day of fun with animals from around the world.

Exploring Old Town Lansing offers unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants in a historic district, while walking the River Trail provides a scenic route along the Lansing River. Check the schedule for events and festivals in Lansing, such as the Common Ground Music Festival or the Michigan State Fair.

About a two-hour drive from Birmingham, Holland offers a unique Dutch experience with its windmills, tulips, and charming downtown area. Key attractions include Windmill Island Gardens, where you can visit an authentic Dutch windmill and beautiful gardens, and Holland State Park, which offers beach access and views of the iconic Big Red Lighthouse.

The Tulip Time Festival, held annually in May, showcases thousands of tulips in bloom. Shopping in downtown Holland provide a variety of boutiques and specialty shops, while dining at a Dutch restaurant allows you to try traditional Dutch dishes. Holland is especially beautiful during the spring tulip season but is a charming destination year-round.

Grand Rapids, about two hours from Birmingham, is known for its vibrant art scene and craft beer culture. The city offers a mix of urban and natural attractions. Key attractions include Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, where you can explore beautiful gardens and impressive sculptures, and the Grand Rapids Art Museum, which features a diverse collection of art in a modern setting. John Ball Zoo provides friendly exhibits and animal encounters.

A craft beer tour allows you to visit some of Grand Rapids' many breweries, known as Beer City USA, while walking the Grand River, which offers scenic views of the city. Grand Rapids hosts several art and beer festivals throughout the year, so check the events calendar to coincide your visit with one of these popular events.

Birmingham, Michigan, is a fantastic starting point for exploring some of the best day trips in the state. From the diverse experiences in Ann Arbor and Detroit to the charming small-town appeal of Frankenmuth and Holland, plenty of destinations suit every interest. Whether you're interested in history, nature, food, or shopping, these day trips from Birmingham, Michigan, offer a wide range of experiences.

As you explore these destinations, you'll enjoy the variety of attractions and gain a deeper appreciation for Michigan's beauty and diversity. And if you're considering making a move, Birmingham, Michigan, real estate offers a wonderful home base for all your adventures. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the best that Michigan has to offer.

Begin the journey today in Birmingham, Michigan, real estate with Shain Park, Realtors®.