With over 1,600 miles of shoreline, Lake Michigan provides the adventurous traveler with a ton of sights to see and things to do. Crossing the lake takes two and a half hours by ferry so you can explore all the areas surrounding the Great Lake.
If you’re struggling for things to do on Lake Michigan, then this is the guide for you. Illinois Beach Hotel is based right on the lake and serves as the perfect home base for your activities on the lake.
Take a Dip
One of the most obvious attractions and the best place to start your vacation on Lake Michigan is the lake itself. In the summer months, when the Lake Michigan weather is fine, take the opportunity for a swim in the crystal-clear water or relax at a secluded spot on Mackinac Island.
Once winter begins and the weather turns, the lake takes on a completely different and magical character. Huge portions of the lake freeze and swimming is no longer advisable.
Grab Some Fine Craft Beer
American craft beer has seen a worldwide boom in recent years and Illinois is at its very core.
You can quite often visit local breweries to see how their delicious beer is made and bring home some mementos. These are the breweries that are at the forefront of the beer revolution that has been slowly growing in America for some time. Don’t miss out on trying some.
Visit the Harley Davidson Museum
If you’re a lover of the iconic American motorbike company then a trip to this museum in Milwaukee will be well worth a visit for you.
The museum showcases (nearly) every Harley Davison model made in the company’s history. As you wander around the museum, see if you can spot amazing one-off customized models like the King Kong tandem Harley.
Take a Trip to Chicago
The most famous city that lies on Lake Michigan’s coast is Chicago. Known the world over for its fascinating history, vibrant cultural scene, and breathtaking skyline.
Spend a day or two exploring the Windy City and everything it has to offer. Walk The Loop and see central Chicago in all its glitzy hustle and bustle. Explore the history of the city and learn all about Al Capone, and walk the streets that gave us President Obama.
Seek Out The Blues
The Blues are huge in Chicago and Illinois. There is a reason, after all, that there is a subgenre known as ‘Chicago Blues’. The Blues was brought north by African American musicians as they moved north from the Mississippi Delta.
Muddy Waters and ‘Howlin Wolf’ both made their homes in Chicago and went on to inspire a generation of musicians.
Want More Things to Do on Lake Michigan?
This list of things to do on Lake Michigan is by no means exhaustive, just some of our recommended highlights. The best way to come and explore this wonderful Great Lake is to come and see the place for yourself.
Luckily, we’ve got you covered for somewhere to stay. Illinois Beach Hotel is the very best place to stay on your vacation on Lake Michigan. Book today to come and see the sights.