Nothing gives us a greater sense of awe and wonder than venturing out in nature and exploring the wonderful attractions within driving distance. These “one tank trips” are excursions that can be made in a day and are perfect for when you want to get away for an afternoon.
Beaches
When it's summertime in the Great Lakes State, life's a beach. There is no shortage of water in Michigan, so planning a day at the beach is fun for everyone.
Whether you're looking for a beach with the most amenities or a dog-friendly beach, My Michigan Beach has it all. Use the Michigan Beach and Travel Map to find the right sandy shore for you.
Canoeing and Kayaking
If your idea of a great day trip includes water and paddles, you're in luck! Michigan has many rivers and streams, making canoeing and kayaking accessible and fun for all ages.
The Go Paddling app is a great place to help you find canoeing and kayaking locations. In addition, here are Michigan’s best paddling trips and some more amazing Michigan kayaking spots.
For a cool and unique experience, you can kayak through the canals of Detroit’s “Little Venice.”
Hiking and Biking
Canton has several walking and biking paths, if you're looking to stay local. Maybury State Park also has trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and cross-country skiing, plus picnic areas, a farm and a playground.
Day hikes are an excellent way to connect with nature and get some exercise and fresh air at the same time. Although there are trails throughout the entire state, you don't need to go far to find a park or established pathway. Canton has its own trails to wander in addition to many nearby Michigan state parks that have hiking trails as well.
If you'd like to wander a bit farther, All Trails is a great resource for hiking and biking trails. You can also search for Michigan biking trails here.
Kensington Metropark encompasses over 4,000 acres around Kent Lake and offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, boating and fishing.
Outdoor Sports
Do you enjoy playing tennis? How about pickleball, the nation’s fastest-growing sport? Check out Canton’s available courts, or search for more pickleball courts here.
Michigan is home to several beautiful golf courses. If you are looking for a place nearby to play golf, check out Canton’s scenic golf courses.
Gardens
Strolling through a beautifully designed garden on a summer day is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon and learn something new about nature. The University of Michigan Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum in Ann Arbor have some of the nicest flowers and scenery to explore.
Take a trip and reconnect with nature by visiting one of these botanical gardens in Michigan.
Zoos and Aquariums
Did you know you can use your Canton Public Library card to get discounted passes to the Detroit Zoo?
Animals, fish and other sea creatures have fascinated humans for hundreds of years, making zoos and aquariums a perennial favorite for groups of all ages. While many of the institutions on this list are in Michigan, some are in nearby states, making it possible to visit them without an overnight stay.
Museums
From art to science and everything in between, there is no shortage of museums in Michigan. The library has compiled a list of popular museum destinations, many of which are close enough for a day trip. For a more extensive list, be sure to check out Pure Michigan.
For those interested in the history of transportation, Greenfield Village at the Henry Ford is a must-see. Ride in a Model T or get on a steam-powered locomotive.
In addition, the Michigan Flight Museum offers an immersive flight simulation while learning about the history of aviation. This is one of the top destinations in the Michigan Activity Pass (MAP) program, so be sure to check it out.
Amusement Parks
Looking for some fun for the whole family? One of the top amusement parks in the U.S. is just one state away in Ohio: Cedar Point. You can also visit one of Michigan’s thrilling amusement parks or water parks.
Shopping and Entertainment
There are several fun locations within driving distance for a day or night out on the town with either family, or friends, or both! The Somerset Collection in Troy is a lovely mall with an impressive number of specialty stores alongside dining options.
There is also much to do in downtown Ann Arbor; there are several different districts to explore, each with its own distinctive options and feel.
If you happen to be closer to downtown Detroit, you will have much to choose from when it comes to shopping, dining and live music.
Helpful Resources
- Michigan Activity Pass (MAP): You can use your library card to check out a pass with free or reduced admission to one of Michigan’s cultural attractions, museums, state parks or recreation areas.
- Pure Michigan
- Amazing Hidden Gems in Michigan
- Michigan Off the Beaten Path by Jackie Sheckler Finch
- Backroads & Byways of Michigan by Matt Forster
- Michigan Day Trips by Theme by Kathryn Hough
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