Day Trips from Lansing
← All Lansing day tripsDay Trips from Lansing: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Lansing, 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 Lansing
Crow’s Nest Overlook
MI 49453, USA
Just 1 hr 40 min from Lansing, 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 1 hr 14 min from Lansing, 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.
Au Sable Scenic River Highbanks Overlook
Curran, MI 48728
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Lansing, 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.
Overlook at Mt Pisgah
Holland, MI 49424
Just 1 hr 34 min from Lansing, 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.
Rockford Dam Overlook
Rockford, MI 49341
Just 1 hr 14 min from Lansing, rated 4.8 stars by 1,265 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Westgate Scenic Overlook
MI 48739, USA
Just 2 hrs 33 min from Lansing, 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 59 min from Lansing, 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 #1
Novi, MI 48377
Just 60 min from Lansing, 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.
Scenic overlook
Mio, MI 48647
Just 2 hrs 55 min from Lansing, rated 4.7 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
M-5 Bridge Scenic Overlook
Commerce Township, MI 48382
Just 1 hr 1 min from Lansing, 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.
River Overlook
Rochester Rotary Riv Overlook, Rochester Hills
Just 1 hr 27 min from Lansing, 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.
Scenic Overlook
I-75, Cheboygan
Just 2 hrs 55 min from Lansing, rated 4.5 stars by 426 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Lansing
What are the best scenic drives near Lansing, MI?
The best scenic drives near Lansing 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 Lansing?
Most scenic drives near Lansing 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 Lansing?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Lansing, 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 Lansing?
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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