Best Summer Day Trips Near Big Rapids
Summer in Big Rapids feels a lot quieter once the spring semester ends, but there are still plenty of fun places nearby for students looking to get out and enjoy Michigan weather.
From beaches and amusement parks to small towns and outdoor adventures, students at Ferris State University have access to some of the best summer destinations in West Michigan without needing to travel too far. Whether you are planning a weekend adventure with friends or just looking for a quick escape from studying, here are some of the best summer day trips near Big Rapids.
1. Michigan’s Adventure: Muskegon
Michigan's Adventure is one of the best summer attractions for Ferris State students looking for an adrenaline boost nearby. Just over an hour from Big Rapids, the amusement park is full of roller coasters, thrill rides, and one of Michigan’s largest waterparks. It is the perfect place to spend a hot summer day with friends, especially for students looking for an affordable alternative to larger theme parks.
Between the lazy river, wave pool, and classic roller coasters, Michigan’s Adventure offers something for everyone and feels like a summer tradition in Michigan.
2. Canadian Lakes
Canadian Lakes is more of a hidden gem near Big Rapids and is only about 25 minutes away from campus. Known for its peaceful lakes and golf courses, Canadian Lakes is a great option for students who want a more relaxing summer day trip.
Students can spend the day kayaking, swimming, or relaxing near the water. This place is perfect for photography, sunset watching, or simply getting away from busy schedules for a few hours. You could even get a round of golf in at St. Ives or Tullymore, where you could stop in and learn from alumni who work at the course!
Because it is so close to Big Rapids, Canadian Lakes is ideal for spontaneous trips and quick summer getaways without needing to spend a lot of money.
3. Grand Haven
Grand Haven is one of Michigan’s most popular beach towns and makes for a perfect summer road trip from Big Rapids. Students can spend the day swimming in Lake Michigan, walking the pier, exploring the shops, or grabbing ice cream or a corndog by the waterfront. Grand Haven also is home to American Dunes, a Jack Nicklaus signature course, imagined by the owner and founder of the Folds of Honor. The course also has a Ferris State connection with a PGM alum as the general manager.
One of the biggest summer attractions in Grand Haven is the annual Coast Guard Festival held in late July and early August. The festival brings thousands of visitors to
the area and includes carnival rides, live music, parades, fireworks, food vendors,
and tours of Coast Guard ships. Many students enjoy making the trip during festival
week because the town feels full of energy and summer excitement. Grand Haven offers
one of the best summer
experiences near Big Rapids.
4. Silver Lake Sand Dunes: Mears
Silver Lake Sand Dunes can easily be considered one of the most unique summer experiences in Michigan. Students can ride dune buggies, hike the dunes, or spend the day near the water.
The massive sand dunes make it a great place for photos and group trips. It is also perfect for students looking for a more adventurous summer activity instead of a typical beach day. The drive from Big Rapids is manageable for an all-day trip and feels completely different from campus life.
5. Ludington State Park
Ludington State Park is another great summer destination located within driving distance of Big Rapids. The park offers beaches, hiking trails, sand dunes, and scenic views along Lake Michigan.
Students who enjoy nature, hiking, or photography will especially enjoy spending the day exploring the area. Ludington also has a small downtown filled with little shops and restaurants, making it easy to turn the trip into a full-day adventure.
6. Downtown Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is a great option for students looking for shopping, food, concerts, sporting events or nightlife during the summer months. Located about an hour from Big Rapids, the city offers a completely different vibe while still being close enough for a day trip.
Students can explore coffee shops, local restaurants, boutiques, concerts, or seasonal events happening throughout the summer. Grand Rapids is also full of great photo spots and activities for friends looking to spend the day together. So, find a concert at the new amphitheater, spend the day at John Ball Zoo, or catch a Whitecaps game at LMCU Ballpark!
7. Traverse City
Traverse City is one of the most popular summer destinations in Michigan and is well worth the drive from Big Rapids. The city brings such beautiful waterfront views, unique local shops, restaurants, and endless outdoor activities.
Students can spend the day relaxing at one of the area's beaches, exploring the downtown district, or walking along the marina. Traverse City is also known for its cherry orchards and hiking opportunities throughout the surrounding area.
For students looking to make a full day out of their trip, nearby attractions such as the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offer breathtaking views and some of the most iconic landscapes in Michigan. And if you take the long way from TC to Sleeping Bear, you can stop at alumni-owned Hive Coffee Co. or Birdie's Sandwich Shop!
Whether you are looking for outdoor adventure, great food, shopping, or simply a relaxing day by the water, Traverse City offers something for everyone and is a perfect summer getaway from Big Rapids.
Get Outside!
Although Big Rapids may be a smaller college town, students at Ferris are surrounded by plenty of exciting summer adventures. Whether it is spending the day riding roller coasters at Michigan’s Adventure, relaxing by the water at Canadian Lakes, or watching sunsets along Lake Michigan, there are endless ways to enjoy summer close to campus.
These day trips give students a chance to take a break, explore Michigan, create memories with friends, and most importantly get outside before the fall semester begins!
Ready to become a bulldog?
Written by Santana Garcia