My family and I planned a last-minute summer road trip this year to West Michigan. Last year, we spent the week in Ludington, but this year we wanted to head to the Muskegon area. I couldn’t find a house to rent in Muskegon, so I set my sights on a nearby city: Newaygo.
Luckily, I was able to find a house off of a gorgeous inland lake: Lake Sylvan. The city is all about outdoors activities and laid-back lifestyles. Exactly what I was looking for in a summer getaway!
After researching the area more, I realized that some neighboring cities also had great attractions that were worth driving for. On the way to our Airbnb in Newaygo, we stopped in the city of Cedar Springs to check out an amazing outdoor animal venue, Deer Tracks Junction. We traveled to the neighboring city of Rockford for some amazing food and shopping off of the Rogue River. And on one of our days, we traveled to Muskegon for the perfect beach day and Lake Michigan views.
With so many cities to see in Michigan, why stop at one? I’m sharing some of my favorite spots we found on our trip to West Michigan.
Attractions You Must Visit
Deer Tracks Junction | 7850 14 Mile Road NE, Cedar Springs, 49319
The coolest place! One side of the attraction has a little town where you can walk from spot to spot. Kids can feed baby goats, hold bunnies, and walk through a bird exhibit where parakeets land right on you. The other side is a drive-through petting zoo with llamas, bison, and various deer. There’s even giraffes!
Pere Marquette Park | 3510 Channel Dr., Muskegon, 49441
Super clean beach with amazing Lake Michigan access. The beach is HUGE, with a play area for kids and plenty of room to spread out. There’s a lighthouse nearby and an amazing restaurant there too.
Favorite Coffee Shop
The 490 Bakery | 1845 Lakeshore Drive, Muskegon, 49441
So much more than coffee! Add some yummy + fresh cookies or other baked goods to your order!
Favorite Date Night Spot
Sportsman’s Bar | 30 State Road, Newaygo, 49337
A fun local bar in downtown Newaygo. Has a great small town feel, and the staff is super friendly. Be sure to try the alligator bites!
Favorite Kid-Friendly Spots
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum | 11 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids, 49503
Super cool place for kids. It offers two stories of interactive play and learning toys. They even have a painting workshop area that’s open every day. You could spend hours here!
Favorite Place for Sweet Treats
Tiny’s Tasty Treats | 98 State Road, Newaygo, 49337
Yummy ice cream! They have many different flavors to choose from.
Restaurants You’ll Love
The Deck | 1601 Beach St., Muskegon, 49441
The coolest beach bar! Great for the entire family. The food came out super quick and the drinks were amazing. The bar/restaurant is right on the beach, and it has a ton of swings and outdoor games to keep everyone entertained. 10/10 will be going back!
Newaygo Brewing Co. | 19 State Road, Newaygo, 49337
A great local brewery right in little downtown Newaygo. Their root beer floats, pizzas, and lobster rolls were absolutely amazing! Cute little atmosphere too. For dessert, try their ice cream taco.
The Toasted Pickle | 17 Squires Street Square NE, Rockford, 49341
Cute little place with outdoor seating, right near the Rogue River.
Bonus Tips to Traveling Around West Michigan
- Check out all the water attractions West Michigan has to offer! Between Lake Michigan and all the amazing local inland lakes, there’s so much to do!
- Research the neighboring cities. Make the most of your trip!
- Some shops and restaurants aren’t open during the beginning of the week. Be sure to check to see what’s open and when before you go.
