A Tour of Michigan's Thumb
Make the most of driving tour through eastern Michigan – the thumb! Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Mitten State – the "thumb," specifically – from pleasant cities like Lapeer to Davison.
Port Huron
Start your Thumb Tour of central Michigan in Port Huron. On the border of Michigan and Point Edward, Ontario, split only by the Riu Saint Clair, Port Huron is home to some top attractions, and serves as an excellent launching point.
Must See
The Port Huron Museum is a premier attraction in the city. Learn about the diverse and impressive history of Port Huron. If you're coming in from Ontario, take Ontario Highway 402 West, which becomes Interstate 69 once you cross into Port Huron.
Local Guide
Be sure to plan an afternoon for exploring Historic Downtown Port Huron. Find charming and cozy shops, dining, and museums. In late January of each year, Historic Downtown Port Huron hosts Chilly Fest.
Outdoor
One of the premier outdoor destinations in Port Huron is Pine Grove Park, which rests along the Riu Saint Clair. You can fish from the shore, enjoy a kayak ride, or watch as ships make their way into the harbor.
Lapeer
From Port Huron, head west along I-69 and discover Lapeer. Yielding access to a wide range of excellent attractions, Lapeer is sure to be a highlight of this tour.
Must See
Plan for a tour of the very cool and very impressive Gallery 194. Operated by the Center for the Arts of Greater Lapeer, Gallery 194 features two spacious galleries, and offers a long list of classes and special events.
Local Guide
For an exciting day out with the kids, be sure to visit Lake Nepessing Golfland. You and the kids can play a round of mini golf, scoot around in some go-karts, or practice your swings at the driving range.
Outdoor
Just to the southwest of downtown Lapeer, Lake Nepessing makes for an incredible day of outdoor recreation. Boating, fishing, swimming, and miles of shoreline make Lake Nepessing a must-visit.
Davison
Continue your tour of the Michigan Thumb by driving further west along I-69 into Davison. Just east of Flint, Davison is nicknamed the City of Flags, and was incorporated in 1916 as a village. You'll find plenty to see and do here.
Must See
At 18 holes, the Sugarbush Golf Course is a must-play in Davison. This par-72 course plays to 7,285 yards from the back tees, opened in 1995, and was designed by David Mancour.
Local Guide
One of the most fun and unique experiences in Davison can be found at Michigan Escape Games. Ideal for small groups, choose from any of the four different "escape rooms" where you and your teammates are tasked with solving riddles and other puzzles in an effort to unlock the mysteries of the room and, ultimately, the doors.
Outdoor
Visit and explore the Genesee Recreation Area, just to the northwest of Davison in Flint. There are nine miles of hiking trails, the Goldenrod Disc Golf Course, and a wealth of water activities.
Birch Run
Heading west along I-69 from Davison will land you on I-475 north bound, which then becomes I-75 – the most ideal way to find your next destination: Birch Run. Make the most of your time in this quaint village.
Must See
Any visit to Birch Run should see you spend a few hours at the Birch Run Premium Outlets. You'll find excellent bargains on top brands from across the globe when you check out the Birch Run Premium Outlets.
Local Guide
While Detroit is known as "Motor City," Birch Run features it's own brand of motor madness – catch a race at the Dixie Motor Speedway. Top races and racers from the JEGS All Star Tour, and the Main Event Racing Series graces this high-banked asphalt course.
Outdoor
Don't miss a chance to explore the Wilderness Trails Zoo in Birch Run. With more than 200 animals across 50 different species, picnic tables, and an animal-petting area, Wilderness Trails Zoo proves to be ideal for families.
Midland
Round off this Michigan Thumb tour with a stay in Midland. As you drive north from Birch Run, you'll pass through Saginaw. Midland is home to a wealth of excellent attractions, sure to make it a memorable stay.
Must See
One of the premier museums and science experiences in the entire state, the Alden B. Dow Museum of Art & Science proves to be a can't-miss in Midland. Explore the Hall of Ideas, and don't miss the ever-changing breadth of world-class exhibits.
Local Guide
In downtown Midland, be sure to catch a live show at the Center Stage Theatre. Featuring some of the Great Lakes Bay region's most exceptional talent, Center Stage Theatre hosts a wide range of shows throughout the year.
Outdoor
With more than 15 miles of hiking, biking, and nature trails, Chippewa Nature Center is an ideal way to experience Midland's outdoors. Across the 1,200 acres of wetlands, marshes, and fields at Chippewa Nature Center, don't miss the 3.7-mile Chippewa Trail.