Grab your snacks and get your playlists ready, we’re going on a road trip!

Whether you've got a three-day weekend coming up that you want to take advantage of or you're looking for a getaway from Ann Arbor, we have some suggestions to make the most of your weekend trip.

1. Frankenmuth

Frankenmuth is charming small town with architecture that betrays its Bavarian roots. In fact, you should make it a point to simply take an outdoor stroll past the ornate German buildings. There is also plenty to do here. Hop on a riverboat for a relaxing ride, or catch a horse-drawn carriage. Visit Frankenmuth Adventure Center for zip-lining thrills. The town’s proud German identity shows itself in the numerous events and festivals that take place throughout the year.

2. Grand Rapids

Grand Rapids offers fun for all ages. The John Ball Zoo lets you get a peek at tigers, lions, chimpanzees, and dart frogs. Kids will also love the petting zoo. Millennium Park is another fun summertime outing here. Go for a hike on one of the park’s trails, or visit the boat rental to get out on the lake. Grand Rapids truly is “Beer City, USA.” Many breweries line the streets and offer opportunities for tours and tasting. 

3. Traverse City

Located on the beautiful Traverse Bay, Traverse City is prime wine country. Wineries here offer tours as well as chances to sample the many varieties produced from their vineyards. It is a great way to spend a summer day with a significant other. For a more active afternoon with the kids, check out Pirate’s Cove Adventure Park. Water coasters, a zip line, and bumper cars make for an exciting time. Also be sure to see the Music House Museum, home to historic automated instruments that play live music.

4. Holland

Holland’s kinship with it’s European namesake goes beyond the name. Tulips abound here, and a Dutch windmill may fool you into thinking you are across the Atlantic. This small, picturesque town also features beaches for picnics and relaxing as well as the waters of Lake Michigan for paddle boarding and kayaking. 

5. Lansing

Go on a tour of the State Capitol building in this capitol city of Michigan. Lansing is also home to several worthwhile museums, including the Eli and Edythe Broad Museum for Contemporary Art. Paintings and artifacts with a modern edge make this museum and interesting stop. Help you kids unleash their creative thinking by taking a trip to the Impression 5 Science Center, where hands-on exhibits educate visitors on everything from water to electricity to moving objects.