Worth the Drive: Five Easy Day Trips from Benzie County

One of the best things about living in Benzie County is that you don’t have to go far to find somewhere worth exploring.

From Lake Michigan beaches and historic harbors to small-town shops, scenic trails and a few wonderfully quirky places, Northern Michigan is full of destinations that make an easy day trip. And when the day is done, you get to come home to the slower pace and familiar surroundings of Benzie County.

Here are five of our favorite places to explore when you’re ready for a change of scenery, all easy enough to enjoy in a day and each with its own personality.

1. Arcadia: Lake Michigan Views + Trails

Just south of Benzie County, Arcadia is a great choice when you’re looking for spectacular views without a long drive.

Start with a hike at Arcadia Dunes, where wooded trails lead toward some beautiful Lake Michigan overlooks. The Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve is another worthwhile stop, especially for birdwatching and an easy stroll along the accessible boardwalk.

And, of course, there’s the lake. Arcadia’s beaches tend to feel a little less crowded than some of the better-known destinations farther north, making it an especially nice place to spend a summer afternoon.

Day-trip idea: Hike in the morning, grab lunch nearby and finish the afternoon watching the sunset over Lake Michigan from the Arcadia Overlook on M22 (also know as Inspiration Point – you’ll see why!).

2. Empire: Dunes + Beach Days

If someone visiting Northern Michigan asks where they should experience the Lake Michigan shoreline, Empire is an easy recommendation.

Located at the southern edge of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire offers plenty to fill a day without requiring an elaborate itinerary. Walk the beach, explore the village, hike a trail or simply find a spot to sit and take in the view.

Day-trip idea: Enjoy a day at Empire Beach, hike the Empire Bluffs Trail, or rent an e-bike and cruise the Sleeping Bear Heritage Bike Trail. Afterwards enjoy the famous burgers at Arts Friendly Tavern.

3. Kaleva: Finnish Heritage + Local Quirks

Sometimes the best day trips aren't about big attractions. They're about finding a place with a story.

Kaleva, located in Manistee County, is one of those places.

Founded by Finnish immigrants, the village retains a strong connection to its Finnish heritage. Visit the Kaleva Finnish-American Heritage Center, located at the wonderfully quirky Kaleva Bottle House Museum, to learn more about the community and its history.

Kaleva is also a good reminder that you don't have to travel far to find something completely different from your everyday surroundings.

Day-trip idea: Learn a little local history, grab a bite to eat and take the scenic route home through the surrounding countryside.

4. Manistee: History + Harbor

Manistee offers a completely different kind of waterfront experience.

Located along the Manistee River and Lake Michigan, the city combines beaches and harbor views with a fascinating history rooted in the lumber industry. The Manistee Riverwalk is an easy way to experience the waterfront, while the historic downtown is worth exploring for its architecture, shops and restaurants.

Don't overlook Manistee's connection to the past. A walk through downtown reveals beautiful historic buildings and plenty of reminders of the city's importance during Northern Michigan's lumber era.

And when you need a little beach time, First Street Beach is just minutes from downtown.

Day-trip idea: Walk the riverfront in the morning, explore downtown and enjoy an afternoon at the beach.

5. Mesick: River Days + Hodenpyl Dam

Looking for something a little more off the beaten path? Head east to Mesick.

The small community of Mesick sits near the Manistee River and provides easy access to some of the area's outdoor recreation.

Nearby Hodenpyl Dam and the Manistee River offer opportunities for fishing, paddling, hiking and simply enjoying the woods and water. It's the kind of destination where you can slow down, spend a few hours outside and enjoy a side of Northern Michigan that doesn't always make the tourist lists.

Day-trip idea: Spend the day along the river and explore the mix of engineering and nature around Hodenpyl Dam, including the pedestrian suspension bridge to its south. 

Make Benzie County Your Home Base

One of the great advantages of living in Benzie County is having all of this within easy reach. So the next time you're looking for something to do, skip the long road trip. Pick a direction, pack a lunch and see where the day takes you.

Because sometimes the best adventures are just a short drive away.