Day Trips from Detroit
← All Detroit day tripsDay Trips from Detroit: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Detroit, 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 Detroit
Blue Water Bridge Scenic Spot
Port Huron, MI 48060
Just 59 min from Detroit, rated 4.9 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.
Four Mile Scenic Turnout
Palms, MI 48465
Just 1 hr 49 min from Detroit, 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.
Berea Falls Scenic Overlook- Barret Overlook
Berea, OH 44017
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Detroit, rated 4.8 stars by 748 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook #1
Novi, MI 48377
Just 31 min from Detroit, 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 42 min from Detroit, 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 45 min from Detroit, 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 31 min from Detroit, 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.
M-5 Bridge Scenic Overlook
Commerce Township, MI 48382
Just 30 min from Detroit, 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.
Scenic View Park
London, ON N6K 5C7
Just 2 hrs from Detroit, rated 4.6 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.
Luis Lookout
Erie Beach, ON N0P 1A0
Just 1 hr 15 min from Detroit, rated 4.6 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.
Bedford Scenic Overlook
Walton Hills, OH 44146
Just 2 hrs 47 min from Detroit, 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 32 min from Detroit, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Detroit
What are the best scenic drives near Detroit, MI?
The best scenic drives near Detroit 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 Detroit?
Most scenic drives near Detroit 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 Detroit?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Detroit, 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 Detroit?
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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