Michigan’s legendary M-22 highway curves along Lake Michigan’s eastern shore, creating one of America’s most beautiful scenic drives. This winding route takes you through charming lakeside towns, past towering sand dunes, and alongside crystal-clear waters that rival any coastal destination. Beyond the stunning natural beauty, you’ll discover cozy bakeries serving warm pastries and friendly local spots that make this journey as delicious as it is scenic. Pack your camera and your appetite for an unforgettable adventure through northern Michigan’s crown jewel.
1. Clinch Park Beach – Traverse City
Starting your M-22 adventure right in downtown Traverse City feels like cheating – you get beach vibes without leaving civilization behind. This popular stretch of sand sits perfectly on West Grand Traverse Bay, where families spread out blankets while kids build sandcastles.
The paved waterfront trail makes strolling easy for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. Snack stands keep hunger at bay when beach appetites kick in.
Parking fills up quickly during summer weekends, so arrive early to claim your spot. The downtown location means restaurants and shops are just steps away when beach time ends.
2. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – Empire
The Philip A. Hart Visitor Center in Empire serves as your gateway to one of Michigan’s most famous natural wonders. Rangers here share stories about the massive dunes that tower over Lake Michigan’s shoreline like sandy skyscrapers.
Choose your adventure: tackle the famous Dune Climb for a leg-burning workout or cruise the scenic Pierce Stocking Drive for easier sightseeing. The park protects over 35 miles of pristine coastline.
Remember to bring your park pass or entry fee – this protected landscape requires a small investment. The views and memories you’ll create are worth every penny of admission.
3. Empire Beach
Sometimes the best views come without the hike, and Empire Beach proves this perfectly. Located right in the village, this Lake Michigan gem offers spectacular dune vistas while keeping your feet firmly planted on level sand.
Kids love the playground equipment, while parents appreciate the convenient picnic areas for family meals. The beach connects easily to the Empire Bluff Trailhead for those wanting a short nature walk.
Village life bustles nearby, so grabbing ice cream or snacks takes just minutes. The combination of natural beauty and small-town convenience makes Empire Beach a perfect family stop along your M-22 journey.
4. Good Harbor Bay Beach
Escape the crowds at this hidden gem tucked between Glen Arbor and Leland. Good Harbor Bay Beach stretches for what feels like miles, offering plenty of space to find your own private slice of Lake Michigan paradise.
The Manitou Islands float on the horizon like mysterious ships, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop for beach photos. Parking sits conveniently right off M-22, making access surprisingly easy for such a peaceful spot.
Bring a good book and prepare to lose track of time. The gentle waves and soft sand create the perfect environment for relaxation, while the island views provide endless entertainment for daydreamers.
5. Cherry Republic – Glen Arbor
Cherry lovers, prepare for paradise! This Glen Arbor institution transforms Michigan’s famous tart cherries into every sweet treat imaginable, from classic pies to creative ice cream flavors that’ll surprise your taste buds.
The campus feels more like a cherry theme park than a simple shop. Browse the tasting room for free samples, grab lunch at the café, or relax on the expansive garden patio surrounded by cherry trees.
Stock up on jams, candies, and dried cherries for the road ahead. Local cherries taste completely different from store-bought versions – once you try them fresh, you’ll understand why Michigan cherry country has such a devoted following.
6. The Village Cheese Shanty – Leland
Fishtown’s restored fishing shanties create a magical backdrop for one of northern Michigan’s most legendary sandwich shops. The Village Cheese Shanty technically calls itself a deli, but their house-baked pretzel bread elevates every sandwich to bakery status.
Historic fishing shanties line the harbor, telling stories of Leland’s maritime past while you munch your meal. The salty pretzel bread paired with fresh deli meats creates flavor combinations that locals rave about year-round.
Operating seasonally means checking hours before visiting, but the wait is worthwhile. Cash works best here, keeping transactions simple in this charming throwback to simpler times along Lake Michigan’s shore.
7. Barb’s Bakery – Northport
Set your alarm early for Northport’s best-kept secret! Barb’s Bakery operates from a tiny space that fills with heavenly aromas of fresh donuts, cinnamon rolls, and strong coffee every morning before dawn.
Local regulars know the drill: arrive by mid-morning or risk disappointment when the display cases sit empty. The small-batch approach means limited quantities but maximum flavor in every bite.
Cash transactions keep things simple and old-fashioned, just like the recipes Barb uses. Seasonal hours mean calling ahead during shoulder seasons, but summer visitors can count on warm pastries and friendly service from this beloved local institution.
8. Christmas Cove Beach – Northport
Tucked away from the main tourist trails, Christmas Cove Beach offers something increasingly rare: peaceful Lake Michigan shoreline without crowds. The Manitou Passage views stretch endlessly across blue waters toward distant islands.
Pack a picnic and prepare for serenity. This public beach stays surprisingly quiet compared to the busier park beaches, making it perfect for romantic walks or family bonding time.
The secluded location means bringing everything you need, from snacks to sunscreen. But the reward – having pristine Lake Michigan coastline mostly to yourself – makes the extra planning worthwhile for travelers seeking authentic northern Michigan beauty.
9. Grand Traverse Lighthouse – Leelanau State Park
Standing sentinel since the 1850s, this historic lighthouse marks the dramatic tip of the Leelanau Peninsula where Lake Michigan meets Grand Traverse Bay. The small maritime museum inside tells fascinating stories of Great Lakes shipping and lighthouse keeping.
Climbing the tower requires a park pass, but the panoramic views reward every step upward. Rocky shoreline surrounds the lighthouse, creating dramatic photo opportunities especially during sunset hours.
The lighthouse keeper’s quarters showcase period furnishings and maritime artifacts. Plan extra time to explore the rocky beaches and imagine the countless ships that depended on this beacon for safe passage through treacherous waters.
10. Suttons Bay Bakery – Suttons Bay
Classic small-town bakeries like Suttons Bay Bakery remind you why homemade beats store-bought every single time. Fresh breads, oversized muffins, and cookies that actually taste like childhood memories fill the display cases daily.
Seasonal pies showcase whatever fruits are ripening locally, from spring strawberries to autumn apples. The bakers arrive before sunrise to ensure everything stays fresh for customers throughout the day.
Perfect timing makes this your final M-22 treat before returning to Traverse City. Grab extra cookies for the road – you’ll want reminders of this incredible loop drive long after returning home to everyday life.
