20 Best Things to Do in Michigan This April (2025 Local’s Guide)
Explore Michigan’s top April events, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures—updated for 2025.
Introduction: Why April in Michigan Is Magical
April in Michigan is that magical time when the snow finally melts, waterfalls thunder with fresh spring runoff, cherry blossoms begin to bloom, and towns from Detroit to the Upper Peninsula come alive with fresh energy. It’s a month of maple syrup tastings, Opening Day cheers at Comerica Park, and outdoor adventures you won’t find any other time of the year.
This 2025 local’s guide gives you the ultimate list of things to do in Michigan in April—from must-attend spring festivals to lesser-known gems and seasonal experiences. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, nature lover, or family adventurer, there’s something on this list for you.
The Ultimate List: 20 Best April Activities in Michigan (2025 Edition)
Outdoor Adventures
Hike to Waterfalls in Full Spring Flow
Where: Tahquamenon Falls, Bond Falls, Hungarian Falls
When: All of April
Cost: State park vehicle pass ($13 daily)
Pro Tips: Wear waterproof boots. Trails can be muddy.
April is one of the best times to witness Michigan’s waterfalls in full force. Snowmelt feeds the falls, making them thunderous and spectacular. Popular destinations include the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls in the UP, Bond Falls near Paulding, and Hungarian Falls in the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Bike Mackinac Island’s Scenic Loop
Where: Mackinac Island
When: Ferries start early April (weather dependent)
Cost: Ferry $30 roundtrip, bike rental $10/hour
Pro Tips: Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds.
Mackinac Island is car-free, offering a serene biking experience along its 8.2-mile shoreline loop. April is still off-season, so you can enjoy a quiet ride surrounded by budding trees and views of Lake Huron.
Kayak the Huron River
Where: Ann Arbor, Dexter, Milford
When: Mid-to-late April
Cost: Rentals $20/hour
Pro Tips: Water levels are high; beginners should wear life vests and go with guided tours.
April brings strong river flow, ideal for kayakers looking for a fun challenge. Paddle the Huron River Water Trail, stopping for a craft beer at a riverside brewery afterward.
Can’t-Miss April Events
Holland’s Tulip Time Festival
Where: Holland, MI
When: May 3–11, 2025 (Early blooms appear mid-to-late April)
Cost: Free to walk, $15–20 for events
Pro Tips: Visit Windmill Island Gardens to see tulips blooming early.
Though technically in May, early tulips begin showing their colors in late April. Holland is home to over 5 million tulips, traditional Dutch dancing, and quaint charm. Perfect for families and couples.
Traverse City Sausage & Beer Festival
Where: Traverse City
When: April 12, 2025
Cost: $45 entry (includes tastings)
Pro Tips: Book your tickets in advance. This event sells out quickly.
Celebrate spring with local craft brews and gourmet sausages from across the state. The festival is held at the beautiful Grand Traverse Commons, surrounded by blooming trees and fresh northern air.
Detroit Tigers Opening Day
Where: Comerica Park, Detroit
When: April 4, 2025
Cost: $30–100+
Pro Tips: Arrive early for tailgating and stay for post-game events downtown.
Opening Day in Detroit is more than a baseball game—it’s a citywide party. The air buzzes with excitement, and bars are packed with fans in Tigers gear. Don’t miss this rite of spring.
Hidden Gems
Hunt for Morel Mushrooms
Where: Grayling, Gaylord, Boyne City
When: Mid-to-late April (weather-dependent)
Cost: Free (if on public land)
Pro Tips: Bring a mesh bag and a mushroom field guide.
Morel mushrooms are a prized spring delicacy in Michigan. Join a guided foraging tour or search solo in known hotspots. Just be sure to follow DNR foraging laws.
Tour Maple Syrup Farms
Where: Upper Peninsula, Petoskey, Mesick
When: Early April
Cost: $5–10 for tours, syrup sold separately
Pro Tips: Visit during weekends when sugar shacks do live demos.
April is prime time for maple syrup production. Visit a working sugar bush, see the sap boiling process, and take home a bottle of pure Michigan gold.
Rainy-Day Activities
Explore The Henry Ford Museum
Where: Dearborn
When: Year-round, perfect for April showers
Cost: $30 adults, $20 kids
Pro Tips: Check for rotating exhibits. 2025 will feature “Innovation in American Farming.”
This sprawling museum complex is a must-visit any time of year, but especially on rainy spring days. Ride in a real Model T, explore American innovation, and visit Greenfield Village when skies clear.
Sip Craft Cider at Blake’s Hard Cider Co.
Where: Armada, MI
When: Weekends in April
Cost: $10 tasting flights
Pro Tips: Try seasonal spring flavors like lavender pear or rhubarb rose.
Warm up with a cider tasting at this family-owned orchard and taproom. Tours available on weekends, and their spring drink specials are legendary.
Regional Breakdown: Where to Go Based on Location
Southeast Michigan (Detroit, Ann Arbor)
- Comerica Park Opening Day
- Detroit Riverwalk: Blooming flower beds and skyline views.
- Ann Arbor Farmers Market: Spring greens, flowers, and fresh bread.
- Nichols Arboretum: Gorgeous early blooms and peaceful walking trails.
West Coast (Grand Rapids, Holland, Muskegon)
- Tulip Time early blooms in Holland
- Muskegon State Park: Dune hikes and lakefront views.
- Meijer Gardens (Grand Rapids): Spring plantings and sculpture park strolls.
- Craft Beer Tours: Visit Founders, New Holland, and Odd Side Ales.
Northern LP & Upper Peninsula
- Waterfalls (Bond Falls, Tahquamenon)
- Maple Syrup Tours
- Lake Superior shoreline hiking
- Morel mushroom foraging
- Pictured Rocks spring thaw tours
April Travel Tips for Michigan
- Layer Up: Weather can swing from 35°F to 65°F. Bring rain gear and warm layers.
- Trail Safety: Wear waterproof hiking shoes. Trails may be slippery or muddy.
- Early Bookings: Book lodging early in Holland and Traverse City due to spring events.
- Wildlife Caution: Bears wake from hibernation in the UP. Store food securely.
- Avoid Crowds: Visit events early in the day or on weekdays if possible.
FAQs: Voice Search Optimized
Is April a good time to visit Mackinac Island?
Yes! While not everything is open, April is peaceful and perfect for exploring without the summer crowds. Ferries begin mid-April, and it’s a great time to bike around the island.
Where can I see cherry blossoms in Michigan?
Cherry blossoms bloom late April to early May. Best spots include Traverse City, the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor, and Belle Isle Park in Detroit.
What are some family-friendly activities in April in Michigan?
Great family options include visiting the Detroit Zoo, hiking in Sleeping Bear Dunes, maple syrup festivals, and attending early spring carnivals.
Are there romantic getaways in Michigan in April?
Absolutely! Try a weekend at a lakeside cabin near Charlevoix, a wine-tasting trip in Leelanau Peninsula, or a cozy inn in Saugatuck with lake views and spa services.
Is April a good month for hiking in Michigan?
It’s one of the best! Waterfalls are gushing, wildflowers begin to bloom, and trails are mostly empty. Just be prepared for muddy conditions and wet weather.
Bonus: 5 More Unique April Activities in Michigan
1. Spring Ziplining at TreeRunner Adventure Park
Where: West Bloomfield, MI
Why Go: Zip through budding trees for a bird’s-eye view of spring!
2. Visit the Butterfly House in Whitehouse Nature Center
Where: Albion College Campus
Why Go: Colorful and educational. Great for families and nature lovers.
3. Attend the Leelanau Spring Wine Trail Kickoff
Where: Leelanau Peninsula
Why Go: Sip crisp whites and enjoy vineyard views coming to life.
4. Go Glassblowing at Dearborn’s Glass Academy
Where: Dearborn
Why Go: Create your own spring-themed ornament or glass flower.
5. Explore Water Street Market in Holland
Where: Downtown Holland
Why Go: Artisanal shops, antiques, and local eats under blooming tulips.
Conclusion: Spring into Adventure
From roaring waterfalls to tulip-lined streets, April in Michigan is full of magic. Whether you’re planning a road trip, staycation, or weekend getaway, these ideas will keep your calendar packed with unforgettable moments.
🌷 Did we miss your favorite April activity in Michigan? Drop it in the comments!
📌 Pin this guide to your Michigan Spring Bucket List and plan your April 2025 adventure today!
Related Reads from FunInMichigan:
- Best Michigan Spring Break Spots
- Top Michigan Waterfalls to Visit in Spring
- Michigan Maple Syrup Festivals 2025
- Romantic Weekend Getaways in Michigan
- Things to Do in Northern Michigan in Spring
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