layla-logo
layla-logo
🌍 Hey, I'm Layla, your AI trip planner.
This is a sample trip — I can add cities, find flights, activities, and local tips.


Tell me your style and budget, and I'll design a trip just for you.
Can you make this trip cheaper?Find me restaurants with local foodSwitch to a 4-star hotelCan you make this trip cheaper?Find me restaurants with local foodSwitch to a 4-star hotelCan you make this trip cheaper?

Instant replies, no wait time ⚡

1
Traverse City
2
Sault Ste. Marie
3
Mackinac Island
4
Petoskey
5
Traverse City
6
Empire
7
Arcadia
8
Ludington
9
Grand Haven
10
Saugatuck
11
New Buffalo
12
Utica
13
Peoria

10-Day Northern Michigan Golf & Adventure Loop

10 days
13 cities
67 experiences
13 hotels
13 transports
Download
Weatherford
Traverse City
Jul 7 – 7
Sault Ste. Marie
Jul 7 – 8
Mackinac Island
Jul 8 – 8
Petoskey
Jul 8 – 9
Traverse City
Jul 9 – 10
Empire
Jul 10 – 11
Arcadia
Jul 11 – 12
Ludington
Jul 12 – 13
Grand Haven
Jul 13 – 14
Saugatuck
Jul 14 – 15
New Buffalo
Jul 15 – 16
Utica
Jul 16 – 16
Peoria
Jul 16 – 17
Weatherford
Day 1
Jul 7 – 7
Traverse City

Arriving in Traverse City, Michigan, you'll experience the charm of the "Cherry Capital" with its beautiful lakeside views and vibrant local culture. This leg of your trip offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities like golf and hiking, alongside opportunities to explore the local culinary scene and scenic drives. Traverse City serves as an ideal gateway to Northern Michigan adventures, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey.

Car Rental
Jul 7
Chevrolet Spark

Chevrolet Spark

Economy • Automatic • 4-5 Door
Stay
Day 1
Jul 7 – 7
Add a stay for Traverse City
Day 1
Jul 7 – 8
Sault Ste. Marie

Hey! After flying into Traverse City, your trip kicks off with a scenic drive to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. Here, you can enjoy the unique experience of visiting Locke's, and play golf just across the border at the stunning Crimson Ridge Golf Course. This leg offers a perfect blend of golfing excitement and cultural exploration in a charming border town, setting a fantastic tone for your Northern Michigan adventure!

Stay
Day 1
Jul 7 – 8
1 night

Holiday Inn Express Sault Ste. Marie by IHG

Standard Room, 2 Queen BedsBreakfast included
9.2
Wonderful1,000 reviews
3-minute drive from the iconic Soo Locks
Itinerary
Day 1
Jul 7 – 8
Day 1•Jul 7•3 Experiences

Arrival and Relaxing Evening in Sault Ste. Marie

Day 2•Jul 8•1 Experience

Departure to Mackinac Island Ferry

Day 2
Jul 8 – 8
Mackinac Island

On July 8, enjoy a charming half-day stop at Mackinac Island, Michigan, known for its historic ambiance and stunning natural beauty. Experience the island's car-free streets, horse-drawn carriages, and scenic views, making it a perfect peaceful retreat before continuing your Northern Michigan adventure. This brief visit offers a unique glimpse into one of Michigan's most beloved destinations without the need to stay overnight.

Stay
Day 2
Jul 8 – 8
Add a stay for Mackinac Island
Itinerary
Day 2
Jul 8 – 8
Day 2•Jul 8•4 Experiences

Exploring Mackinac Island

Day 2
Jul 8 – 9
Petoskey

On your way to Traverse City, make a stop in Petoskey, Michigan, a charming town known for its beautiful waterfront and vibrant downtown. Enjoy the scenic views of Lake Michigan and explore the quaint shops and restaurants. It's a perfect spot to relax and soak in the Northern Michigan atmosphere before continuing your adventure.

Stay
Day 2
Jul 8 – 9
1 night

Quality Inn Petoskey

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non SmokingBreakfast included
9.0
Very Good1,001 reviews
1.9 miles from Crooked Tree Golf Club
Itinerary
Day 2
Jul 8 – 9
Day 2•Jul 8•3 Experiences

Arrival in Petoskey and Evening by the Bay

Day 3•Jul 9•3 Experiences

Morning Golf and Scenic Coastal Drive

Day 3
Jul 9 – 10
Traverse City

Your Traverse City leg is the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a round of golf at the renowned Bay Harbor Golf Course, explore the stunning Tunnel of Trees, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes. This leg offers a fantastic mix of scenic drives, outdoor activities, and charming local experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

Stay
Day 3
Jul 9 – 10
1 night

Bayshore Resort

Breakfast included
9.6
Wonderful1,720 reviews
Private beach access on Grand Traverse Bay
Itinerary
Day 3
Jul 9 – 10
Day 3•Jul 9•Weather icon25°C•4 Experiences

Arrival and Wine Tour in Traverse City

Day 4•Jul 10•Weather icon28°C•3 Experiences

Traverse City Exploration and Departure to Empire

Day 4
Jul 10 – 11
Empire

On July 10-11, immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Empire, Michigan, just a short drive from Arcadia Bluffs. Explore the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with its breathtaking views and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking the Empire Bluffs Trail. This leg offers a perfect blend of scenic hiking, lakefront tranquility, and proximity to world-class golf at Arcadia Bluffs, making it an unforgettable part of your Northern Michigan adventure.

Stay
Day 4
Jul 10 – 11
1 night

Dune Climb Inn

9.2
Wonderful107 reviews
Excellent location near Sleeping Bear Dunes and Empire Bluff Trail
Itinerary
Day 4
Jul 10 – 11
Day 4•Jul 10•3 Experiences

Empire Bluffs Hiking and Platte River Kayaking

Day 5•Jul 11•2 Experiences

Morning in Empire and Departure to Arcadia

Day 5
Jul 11 – 12
Arcadia

After your unforgettable round at the stunning Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club, enjoy the serene beauty of Arcadia, Michigan. This leg offers a perfect blend of world-class golf and the peaceful charm of a lakeside town, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak in the natural surroundings before continuing your journey. Arcadia's scenic views and tranquil atmosphere provide a refreshing pause on your Northern Michigan adventure.

Stay
Day 5
Jul 11 – 12
1 night

Pleasant Valley Resort

9.0
Very Good58 reviews
Located just 2.9 miles from Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course
Itinerary
Day 5
Jul 11 – 12
Day 5•Jul 11•4 Experiences

Arrival and Golf in Arcadia

Day 6•Jul 12•2 Experiences

Free Morning and Departure to Ludington

Day 6
Jul 12 – 13
Ludington

On July 12-13, enjoy a relaxing stop in Ludington, Michigan, a charming lakeside town just about an hour from Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course. Ludington offers beautiful beaches, a historic lighthouse, and opportunities for fishing and boating, making it a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of Lake Michigan's shoreline. This leg of your trip combines leisure with scenic exploration, giving you a refreshing break before continuing your journey south.

Stay
Day 6
Jul 12 – 13
1 night

The Fresh Coast Inn at Ludington

Standard Room, 1 Queen BedBreakfast included
9.4
Wonderful767 reviews
4 miles from Ludington State Park hiking trails
Itinerary
Day 6
Jul 12 – 13
Day 6•Jul 12•3 Experiences

Arrival in Ludington and Relaxing Evening

Day 7•Jul 13•3 Experiences

Morning Lighthouse Visit and Departure to Grand Haven

Day 7
Jul 13 – 14
Grand Haven

On July 13-14, enjoy the charming lakeside city of Grand Haven, Michigan. This leg of your trip offers a perfect blend of relaxation and outdoor activities, including beautiful sandy beaches, a scenic boardwalk, and the iconic Grand Haven Lighthouse. It's an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the fresh Lake Michigan air before continuing your journey.

Stay
Day 7
Jul 13 – 14
1 night

Looking Glass Beachfront Inn

Breakfast included
9.6
Wonderful118 reviews
Steps from Grand Haven State Park and beach
Itinerary
Day 7
Jul 13 – 14
Day 7•Jul 13•4 Experiences

Arrival and Coastal Exploration in Grand Haven

Day 8•Jul 14•3 Experiences

Dune Hikes and Local Brews Before Heading South

Day 8
Jul 14 – 15
Saugatuck

On your way down the Lake Michigan coast, make a delightful stop in Saugatuck, Michigan. This charming town is known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful beaches, and quaint downtown filled with unique shops and eateries. It's the perfect spot to stretch your legs, enjoy some local culture, and maybe even catch a sunset over the lake before continuing your journey to New Buffalo.

Stay
Day 8
Jul 14 – 15
1 night

Twin Oaks Inn

Breakfast included
9.8
Wonderful91 reviews
Located steps from downtown Saugatuck shops and dining
Itinerary
Day 8
Jul 14 – 15
Day 8•Jul 14•4 Experiences

Arrival and Coastal Exploration in Saugatuck

Day 9•Jul 15•4 Experiences

Coastal Relaxation and Art in Saugatuck

Day 9
Jul 15 – 16
New Buffalo

On July 15-16, enjoy a relaxing stop in New Buffalo, Michigan, a charming lakeside town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant marina. Take in the fresh Lake Michigan air, explore local shops and eateries, and unwind before continuing your journey. This leg offers a perfect blend of scenic views and small-town charm to refresh you.

Stay
Day 9
Jul 15 – 16
1 night

Holiday Inn Express & Suites New Buffalo by IHG

Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds, Non SmokingBreakfast included
9.0
Very Good1,002 reviews
Economical rates align well with your budget preference
Itinerary
Day 9
Jul 15 – 16
Day 9•Jul 15•4 Experiences

Relaxing Coastal Vibes in New Buffalo

Day 10•Jul 16•1 Experience

Departure to Utica for Starved Rock Hike

Day 10
Jul 16 – 16
Utica

After your scenic journey along Lake Michigan, arriving in Utica, Illinois offers a charming small-town experience just before reaching Peoria. Utica is known for its quaint downtown, historic sites, and proximity to the Illinois River, making it a perfect peaceful stop to relax and explore local culture. This leg of your trip provides a delightful contrast to the bustling wedding festivities ahead in Peoria.

Stay
Day 10
Jul 16 – 16
Add a stay for Utica
Itinerary
Day 10
Jul 16 – 16
Day 10•Jul 16•4 Experiences

Starved Rock Adventure and Departure to Peoria

Day 10
Jul 16 – 17
Peoria

Your journey concludes in Peoria, Illinois, where you can enjoy the charm of this vibrant city. Arriving on July 16 for a wedding, you'll experience the perfect blend of celebration and relaxation. Peoria offers a welcoming atmosphere and a great way to cap off your memorable trip.

Car Rental
Jul 16
Chevrolet Spark

Chevrolet Spark

Economy • Automatic • 4-5 Door
Stay
Day 10
Jul 16 – 17
1 night

Peoria Marriott Pere Marquette

Room, 1 King Bed
8.6
Very Good1,004 reviews
Prime downtown location near Peoria Civic Center wedding venue
Itinerary
Day 10
Jul 16 – 17
Day 10•Jul 16•4 Experiences

Arrival in Peoria and Evening Relaxation

Day 11•Jul 17•1 Experience

Departure from Peoria

Explore trips related to this itinerary

9-Day Northern Michigan Road Trip from Toronto
4-Day Northern Michigan Adventure: Traverse City, Torch Lake, and Mackinac Island
October Family Fun by Michigan Water
7-Day Family Road Trip: Chicago to Wisconsin & Michigan
76-Day Family Coastal and Mountain Adventure
4-Day Romantic Fall Road Trip
7-Day Traverse City Summer Getaway
7-Day Family Road Trip to Branson
7-Day Family Road Trip to Branson
14-Day Great Lakes Summer Road Trip

This itinerary was created with Layla, the free AI trip planner.