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Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour

14 Reviews 4.86 out of 5 stars Based on 14 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Frankfort, USA
Book online or call us

from $12.74 per group (up to 4)

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Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour Image 1
Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour Image 2
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Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour Image 4
Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 11 (1.5) days in advance.
8 to 9 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Experience the beauty of Michigan’s wilderness with this self-guided driving tour of the shores of Lake Michigan. See the majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes, a vast expanse of towering sand dunes. Visit the iconic Point Betsie Lighthouse. Take in views of the serene and scenic Manitou Islands. And so much more! There’s no better way to discover Lake Michigan.

After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point.

New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.

This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

What's Included

  • Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
  • Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
  • Private tour experience for your family, in your own car.
  • No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.
See 7 moreSee 6 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point
End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Great Lakes Bay

Michigan sits in the heart of the Great Lakes, one of America's most interesting and in my opinion underappreciated natural wonders. By area, the Great Lakes are the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth and contain 21% of the world’s surface freshwater. The lakes are all connected, and if you follow the smaller lakes and rivers that drain them, eventually you'll reach the Atlantic Ocean.NOTE: The tour is over 121 miles long, with more than 78+ audio stories, and takes about 2-4 hours to complete.New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Lake

Michiganders love to use their hands as maps to show where they’re from. Hold up your left hand, and make a mitten-type shape with your palm facing away from you. Congratulations, you just created a map of the lower peninsula. This tour takes us along the outside of your hand, on the pinky-finger side.
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40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Portage

Coming up ahead is Portage Lake, a perfect encapsulation of the blessings and curses of lumber in Michigan’s history. The timber industry was booming in the mid-1800s, and lumber mills popped up in small settlements all along Lake Michigan’s coast. Trees made their way to mills for processing and were then shipped to cities via the Great Lakes. One of these sawmills was on Porter Lake.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Arcadia Marsh Boardwalk

In about a mile, we will arrive at the Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve, one of only 15 remaining coastal marshes along Lake Michigan’s Lower Peninsula shoreline. Bird, butterfly, and botanical lovers will delight in this stop, where you can walk through the marsh on a dry and elevated boardwalk. It’s free to enter, but dogs are not allowed. The turn is a little easy to miss so I'll be sure to point it out as we get closer.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Crystal Lake Alpacas

Crystal Lake was originally a bay on Lake Michigan before sand dunes closed it off around 2,000 years ago. Not to be deterred by a little geology, Archibald Jones, an entrepreneur and founder of the Benzie County River Improvement Company, wanted to remove the sands between Crystal Lake and Lake Michigan.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Green Point Dunes

This 2-mile hike will take you through shady and green-filled woods on your way to the golden, sandy beach along Lake Michigan. If you want to get to the beach, you'll have to descend some wooden stairs.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Frankfort Beach

If you’re in search of a beach stop, Continue straight on Forest Avenue until you hit the water. There's a small parking lot for Frankfort Public Beach, which is a nice stretch of sand along Lake Michigan. There's also the picturesque Frankfort lighthouse and pier just offshore.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Point Betsie Lighthouse

one of the most photographed lighthouses in Michigan and it's surrounded by a particularly nice stretch of sandy beach. Visitors are welcome to tour the grounds and guided tours are offered Memorial Day weekend through late October for a small fee.
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25 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Sleeping Bear Dunes

One of the top highlights of M22 is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. I'm guessing it is one of the reasons you've decided to drive this stretch of scenic road so I'm going to fill you in on some of its details before we arrive.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Old Indian Trail

Keep a lookout for a small sign marking the turn for Old Indian Trail. This National Park trail has two, roughly 2.5-mile loops that follow a portion of a path that early Native Americans established between their camp and fishing sites. It's a nice option for folks who are looking for a quieter hike or if you have several days in the area.
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35 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Philip A. Hart Visitor Center

Alright, you’re coming up on the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center and as I said earlier, I highly recommend starting your exploration of Sleeping Bear Dunes here. turn right onto West Front Street - that's the next street. Then look for the bluish building and park signs on our left. The visitor center is hard to miss.
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45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Empire

The Empire State was one of the largest and fastest steamer ships of its day, with 40-foot paddle wheels slicing through the water. It was launched in 1848 and carried passengers in luxury from Chicago northward, to destinations along the Great Lakes.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Dune Climb

Coming up is one of the biggest draws at Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore–the Dune climb. The nearly 300-ft dune is steep and one of the few places in the park where climbing on dunes is encouraged. There’s plenty of parking and you’ll see the towering sand right away. You won't miss the sign.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Alligator Hill Trail

Coming up quickly is an interesting side trip - the Alligator Hill hike. This somewhat gentle uphill trail leads to the Islands Lookout where on a clear day you can see all the way out to the Manitou Islands. The hike to the lookout is about 3 miles roundtrip.
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40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Glen Arbor

Tourism was big in the early 1900s and still is today. Glen Arbor has quite a few art galleries, several wine and cider tasting rooms, and cafes, and it's a lovely spot to spend the night if you're not in a hurry to continue along the lakeshore.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

North Manitou Island

I've mentioned the Manitou Islands a couple of times now, so let me fill us in on some more details on these Lake Michigan gems. Both islands are officially part of Sleeping Bear Lakeshore and are largely uninhabited.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Pyramid Point Trail

First is the turn for Port Oneida Beach and Pyramid Point. Pyramid Point offers one of the most gorgeous views of Lake Michigan. It's about a three-mile hike from the trailhead and totally worth it for the panoramic views of the lake.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Manitou Passage Golf Club

I talked a bit about the Manitou Islands earlier on our tour but have yet to chat much about the waterway separating the islands from mainland Michigan - the Manitou Passage. Well, in the mid-1800s to early 1900s, maritime trade was booming and the waters of Lake Michigan were teeming with ships carrying goods.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Good Harbor Bay Trail

About a mile ahead is a turnoff for Good Harbor Beach, on your left hand side. The beach is a lovely place for a stroll, swim, or viewing the sunset. If you swim, be wary of waves and rip current-- there's no lifeguards, so use caution.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Leelanau Peninsula

Leelanau peninsula and county was named by Henry Schoolcraft, who served as Michigan’s Indian agent in the 1820s, acting as a go-between with the US government and Native American tribes. When he was assigned to live in Sault Ste. Marie, he met his wife Jane Johnston.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Historic Fishtown

You are approaching the town of Leland, and a stroll through the town's historic Fishtown is a must-do. Leland is built on the site of one of the oldest Ottawa villages in the Great Lakes region. The spot where the Leland River flows into Lake Michigan provided a natural fish ladder so it's always been a popular fishing ground.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Beaver Island

The Manitou Islands are only two of the many islands that grace Lake Michigan's waters. The largest is Beaver Island located north of the Leelanau Peninsula. It has quite an interesting history including a stint as a self-proclaimed theocratic monarchy.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Northport

You are approaching Northport, a village on Grand Traverse Bay that has quite an interesting history. Northport was settled back in the mid-1800s after a state-wide epidemic of smallpox hastened a mass scattering of settlers.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum

A man named Philo Beers was the 2nd lighthouse keeper, after taking the job from David Moon, who only lasted about 8 months before calling it quits. The lighthouse life isn’t for everyone.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Peshawbestown

In a few moments, you will be passing through a portion of the Grand Traverse Indian Reservation. As you can see, it's just south of the original settlement at Omena led by Reverend Dougherty. Later, a different group of Odawa people moved in to what was called Eagle Town but was renamed, and continues to be called Peshawbestown after their Chief, Peshaba.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Suttons Bay

Ahead is the town of Suttons Bay. As the name implies, the town was named after a person, Harry C Sutton, who founded the port in 1854. Originally the town was called Suttonsburg, and it was considered a “gas station” stop for steamer ships. Cordwood was loaded onto ships that burned wood to heat their boilers.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Traverse City

Alright, you are approaching Traverse City, a city that sits at the head of the East and West arms of Grand Traverse Bay, and let me tell you there is a lot to see and do here. Hopefully, you're planning on staying for a few days and maybe you're using it as a basecamp to explore Sleeping Bear Dunes and the rest of the Leelanau Peninsula.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Dennos Museum Center

The museum also hosts a wide-array of visiting and rotating exhibits. Past temporary exhibits included glass artist Dale Chihuly, Mathias J. Alten, Orna Ben-Ami who was the first female military correspondent for Army Radio, Andy Warhol, and the traveling Bodies Human exhibit.
Read more

10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 27 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Good value: One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle, not each person separately.
  • More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
  • Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-259665P33

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.86
14 reviews

Average 4.86 out of 5 stars based on 14 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
12
4 stars
2
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 11 (1.5) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EST).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
  • Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
  • Private tour experience for your family, in your own car.
  • Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
  • Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories.
  • One purchase covers everyone in your car, not per person.
  • Flexible tour: start, stop, and pause anytime during your trip.
  • Access your tour in our separate audio tour app after booking.
  • Hidden gems and local stories included along the route.
  • Just bring your car and phone; the app guides your tour.
The following is NOT included:
  • No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Michigan Lakeshore, M-22 Self-guided Driving Audio Tour will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Support is available via chat, email, or phone if you need help.
  • Planning tools, route maps, scenic stops, and area previews included.
  • Private tour experience for your family, in your own car.
  • Lifetime access: use the tour anytime and keep it for future trips.
  • Works offline with GPS route guidance and automatic audio stories.
  • One purchase covers everyone in your car, not per person.
  • Flexible tour: start, stop, and pause anytime during your trip.
  • Access your tour in our separate audio tour app after booking.
  • Hidden gems and local stories included along the route.
  • Just bring your car and phone; the app guides your tour.
  • No live guide. Entrance fees, parking, food, and car rental are separate.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Easy to use: GPS-triggered audio plays automatically along the route for a hands-free experience.
  • Private tour: Explore in your own vehicle without crowded buses or large tour groups.
  • At your own pace: Start anytime and pause for hikes, picnics, photos, or scenic stops.
  • Works offline: Once downloaded, the tour works using GPS without Wi-Fi or cellular service.
  • Good value: One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle, not each person separately.
  • More ways to save: Choose a single tour, a nearby bundle, or access to 200+ tours.
  • Download in advance: Download the Tour Guide app by Action and tour while connected to Wi-Fi or a strong cellular signal.
  • Follow the route: Begin at the suggested starting point or join anywhere along the route shown in the app.
  • Lifetime access: Preview the tour before your trip and revisit the stories, photos, and details afterward.
  • Supported devices: iPhone with iOS 15+, Android with version 9+, or a GPS-enabled iPad/tablet with cellular capability.
  • The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.

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