10 Classic Michigander Experiences You Need to Try (Art Coast^® Edition)

1. Watch a Lake Michigan Sunset

Sunrises are nice (especially if you’re naturally a morning person), but sunsets here in the Art Coast are nothing short of extraordinary. Because Lake Michigan sits to the west, the sun sets directly over the water, painting the sky in shades of orange, pink, and purple. It’s one of those experiences that never gets old, no matter how many times you’ve seen it.

For one of the best views, head to the award-winning Oval Beach. Bring a blanket, kick off your shoes, and settle in for a nightly show that even locals plan entire evenings around.

2. Take a Thrilling Ride on the Dunes

Michigan’s freshwater dune system is the largest of its kind in the world, and there’s no better way to experience it than with the Saugatuck Dune Rides.

For more than 70 years, the Saugatuck Dune Rides have taken visitors off-road across towering sand dunes and scenic overlooks while sharing stories about the area’s unique ecology and history, including the lost town of Singapore. It’s part thrill ride, part nature tour, part comedy show, and 100% unique to the Art Coast of Michigan.

3. Sample Michigan Wine

Many visitors are surprised to learn that Michigan ranks among the nation’s leading wine-producing states. Thanks to Lake Michigan’s moderating effect, this region is ideal for growing grapes. In fact, the nearby Fennville AVA was Michigan’s first federally recognized wine appellation.

Whether you prefer bold reds, crisp whites, refreshing rosés, fruit wines, ice wines, or even a little bubbly, you’ll find plenty to explore here. Spend an afternoon visiting local favorites like Fenn Valley Vineyards, Michigan Wine Co., Modales, and Crane’s Winery, and discover why Southwest Michigan has become one of the Midwest’s premier wine destinations. To better understand what makes the region’s wines so distinctive, explore the farm-to-glass story behind the Fennville AVA here.

4. Dig Into a Slice of Fruit Pie

The Art Coast is situated in Michigan’s Fruit Belt, where orchards and berry farms produce an abundance of peaches, apples, blueberries, and more. So it should come as no surprise that fresh fruit pie has become a beloved local tradition. In fact, Saugatuck played a surprising role in pie history as the home of America’s first frozen pie factory (the building which now houses the Saugatuck Center for the Arts), which helped bring Michigan fruit to tables across the country.

At Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant, that tradition lives on with simply delectable homemade fruit pies made from locally grown fruit. Can’t decide which one to try? Order a pie flight and sample several. It’s research, and we won’t judge.

5. Enjoy a Scoop of Blue Moon Ice Cream

Bright blue. Mysterious flavor. Fiercely debated origin. Blue Moon ice cream has achieved near-legendary status throughout Michigan and Wisconsin, and asking people where it started or what it tastes like often sparks spirited discussion. Some detect hints of vanilla, almond, marshmallow, or even cereal milk, while others insist it’s something else entirely.

Whatever the answer may be, a scoop from Charlie’s Round the Corner Ice Cream is a delicious way to join the debate and check another classic Michigan experience off your list.

6. Treat Yourself to Fudge

Few foods are more closely associated with Michigan than fudge. While Mackinac Island, the “Fudge Capital of the World,” may get most of the attention, enjoying a piece of creamy, handcrafted fudge is a Great Lakes tradition that extends well beyond the island. Stop by Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream on Butler Street and sample one of this state’s most beloved sweet treats. 

7. Eat a Coney Dog at the Root Beer Barrel

Despite the name, the Coney Dog didn’t originate on New York’s Coney Island. The iconic hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and onions was actually popularized by Greek and Macedonian immigrants in Michigan during the early 1900s and remains one of the state’s signature foods.

For a truly memorable experience, grab one at the Root Beer Barrel, the giant barrel-shaped roadside attraction near Oval Beach that’s been serving travelers for generations.

8. Spend a Day on the Water

One of Michigan’s favorite claims to fame is that you’re never more than six miles from a natural body of water. Along the Art Coast, it’s easy to see why. Surrounded by rivers, lakes, and more freshwater shoreline than any other state, Michiganders don’t just admire the water—they get out on it.

Whether you prefer to paddle under your own power or let someone else do the navigating, there are countless ways to experience the water. Cruise the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan aboard the Schooner Serenity, Saugatuck’s only authentic tall ship, or enjoy a leisurely ride on the Star of Saugatuck, a 51-ton double-decker paddlewheel boat. Looking for something more active? Rent a kayak and explore the local waterways at your own pace (learn more here), or book a private boat charter for a customized adventure (explore options here). However you choose to get out there, spending time on the water is practically a Michigan requirement.

9. Reel In a Great Lakes Fish

If there’s one thing Michiganders love as much as being on the water, it’s casting a line into it. Book a local charter through InShore Adventures, MIRYHA Charters, Best Chance Too Charters, or Big Lake Outfitters and head out in search of King Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lake Trout, Steelhead, or Walleye. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a complete beginner, there’s something unforgettable about feeling that first tug on the line with Lake Michigan stretching to the horizon.

10. Take on the “Ball and Chain”

For a true Art Coast rite of passage, tackle the legendary “Ball and Chain.” Start by riding the last hand-cranked Chain Ferry in the United States across the Kalamazoo River, then climb the 303 steps to the top of Mt. Baldhead. Catch your breath while taking in panoramic views and admiring the historic Cold War-era radar tower “ball” before making your descent down the dune to Oval Beach. It’s a workout, sightseeing adventure, and unforgettable Michigan experience all rolled in

How Many Can You Check Off?

The good news? You don’t have to fit all ten into one trip. Start with a few favorites, save the rest for another visit, and enjoy becoming a little more Michigander with every new experience.