Ann Arbor, Michigan — Several affordable road trips within a day’s drive of Ann Arbor offer spring break escapes for University of Michigan students and local families.
With the University of Michigan enrolling tens of thousands of students each year, nearby destinations across Michigan and the Midwest provide travel opportunities that often require little more than a few hours on the road, according to regional tourism organizations.
One of the most popular drives heads west to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, about four hours from Ann Arbor. The Lake Michigan shoreline features towering sand dunes, scenic overlooks and hiking trails with views of the Manitou Islands.
Closer to campus, Mackinac Island remains one of Michigan’s most recognizable destinations. Located between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, the island is known for its historic fort, lakeshore bike trails and the absence of motor vehicles.
Students also frequently visit Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio, where waterfalls, caves and wooded trails create one of the Midwest’s most photographed hiking destinations.
Another nearby getaway leads travelers north to Traverse City, where visitors explore waterfront parks, beaches along Grand Traverse Bay and scenic drives through northern Michigan.
For travelers interested in city attractions, Chicago, Illinois, sits about four hours from Ann Arbor and offers lakefront parks, museums and neighborhoods connected by the Chicago Riverwalk.
Ann Arbor’s location in the Great Lakes region places beaches, forests and major cities within a manageable drive, making short road trips a common option for students looking to travel without expensive flights.
For college students balancing budgets and busy schedules, these destinations provide opportunities to explore the Midwest while staying within reach of the University of Michigan campus.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input.
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