Day Trips from Grand Rapids
← All Grand Rapids day tripsDay Trips from Grand Rapids: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Grand Rapids, 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 Grand Rapids
Arcadia Scenic Turnout
Arcadia, MI 49613
Just 2 hrs 15 min from Grand Rapids, rated 5.0 stars by 205 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.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
Empire, MI 49630
Just 2 hrs 34 min from Grand Rapids, rated 5.0 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.
Crow’s Nest Overlook
MI 49453, USA
Just 47 min from Grand Rapids, rated 5.0 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.
River Overlook Deck | 12 Mile Conservation Area
Rockford, MI 49341
Just 21 min from Grand Rapids, rated 5.0 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.
Center Road Scenic Overlook
Traverse City, MI 49686
Just 2 hrs 20 min from Grand Rapids, 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.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
MI 49630, USA
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Grand Rapids, rated 4.9 stars by 4,038 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Overlook at Mt Pisgah
Holland, MI 49424
Just 42 min from Grand Rapids, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Kiesel Viewing Structure
St Joseph, MI 49085
Just 1 hr 20 min from Grand Rapids, rated 4.8 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.
Green View Point
Lyons, MI 48851
Just 50 min from Grand Rapids, 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.
Dunes Scenic Overlook
Glen Arbor, MI 49636
Just 2 hrs 42 min from Grand Rapids, rated 4.8 stars by 400 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.
Scenic Overlook #2
Novi, MI 48377
Just 1 hr 55 min from Grand Rapids, 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.
Scenic Overlook and Rest Area
Gary, IN 46403
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Grand Rapids, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Grand Rapids
What are the best scenic drives near Grand Rapids, MI?
The best scenic drives near Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids?
Most scenic drives near Grand Rapids 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 Grand Rapids?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Grand Rapids, 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 Grand Rapids?
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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