Day Trips from Ann Arbor
← All Ann Arbor day tripsDay Trips from Ann Arbor: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Ann Arbor, MI. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Ann Arbor
Au Sable Scenic River Highbanks Overlook
Curran, MI 48728
Just 2 hrs 52 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.9 stars by 126 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Four Mile Scenic Turnout
Palms, MI 48465
Just 2 hrs 26 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars by 253 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Riverside Park-scenic view
Detroit, MI 48209
Just 46 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook #1
Novi, MI 48377
Just 36 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.7 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
West Drive Scenic Overlook
Hinckley, OH 44233
Just 2 hrs 46 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Westgate Scenic Overlook
MI 48739, USA
Just 2 hrs 35 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.7 stars by 225 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook #2
Novi, MI 48377
Just 36 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.7 stars by 223 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Bedford Scenic Overlook
Walton Hills, OH 44146
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.6 stars by 134 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
River Overlook
Rochester Rotary Riv Overlook, Rochester Hills
Just 1 hr 3 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.6 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
M-5 Bridge Scenic Overlook
Commerce Township, MI 48382
Just 35 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.6 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Rest Stop Scenic Overlook (Vermilion River)
Vermilion, OH 44089
Just 2 hrs 14 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.5 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Boardwalk Outlook
MI 48382, USA
Just 42 min from Ann Arbor, rated 4.3 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Ann Arbor
What are the best scenic drives near Ann Arbor, MI?
The best scenic drives near Ann Arbor include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Ann Arbor?
Most scenic drives near Ann Arbor range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Ann Arbor?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Ann Arbor, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Ann Arbor?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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