Now that the thrill of summer is behind us, the beauty of fall begins. Michigan especially is known for its spectacular fall colors, and many exciting destinations provide you with the opportunity to experience them in all their glory.

As an apartment resident, there’s little to stop you from locking up and heading out for a day trip or a weekend getaway as often as possible. You’ll need that time in order to explore all the many amazing views Upper and Lower Michigan have to offer.

Explore Southeast Michigan in the Fall

You don’t have to go far to enjoy the splendor. Some of the best fall color tour spots are right in your neighborhood or just a short distance away, like:

• Bald Mountain Recreation Area in Lake Orion: The Bald Mountain Recreation Area features nearly 5,000 acres of land with inland lakes and some of the steepest hills and most rugged terrain in southeast Michigan. That all translates to breathtaking views in the fall.
• Belle Isle Park in Detroit: You can’t talk about tourist destinations in metro Detroit without mentioning Belle Isle. The 982-acre park features historic and cultural resources that people have loved for generations, and because it’s a charming island with a view of Canada, it features sights you can’t behold anywhere else.
• Detroit-Algonac-Lake Orion-Port Huron Tour: A fall color tour doesn’t have to include a specific destination, as a simple drive from Detroit to Port Huron and back is a fantastic option. You can also drive around the thumb, taking in the rural scene along with views of Lake Huron.
• Flint-Brighton-Bloomfield Hills Loop: Full of trees, quaint parks, and beautiful lakes, the 150-mile Flint, Brighton, and Bloomfield Hills loop is convenient for residents of southeast Michigan and easy to complete during a day trip.
• Hines Drive: If a day-long or weeklong trip isn’t an option, residents of our local apartment communities don’t even have to leave Wayne County to enjoy the colors. Hines Drive is a 17-mile long road that follows the Rouge River from Dearborn to Northville. It is lined on both sides with parks, athletic fields, and hiking and biking trails, so spending a refreshing fall afternoon picnicking in the park is an easy way to enjoy the season.
• Lake Erie Metropark in Brownstown Township: A breathtaking view of the lake complements the scenery of this gorgeous park. Put on your warm clothes and pack a picnic basket, so you can sit back and take in the beauty at your leisure.
• Stony Creek Metropark: Located in Rochester, Shelby Township, and Washington Township, Stony Creek is a destination for every season, and autumn is no exception. The tree-lined lake is a perfect backdrop for scenic photos and a pleasant afternoon excursion. 

Head Out for a Getaway

Whether you’re looking for an overnight trip or a weeklong adventure, some of the best fall sights in the country can be found throughout Michigan’s lower and upper Peninsulas. Some of the most popular destinations for viewing the fall colors include Boyne Mountain; the Tunnel of Trees in Emmett County; Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore; the Keweenaw Peninsula and Copper Harbor; Tahquamenon Falls State Park; and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

For additional ideas for exciting places to visit in Michigan, as well as travel tips and suggestions, visit Pure Michigan online.