12 days in Southeast Michigan Itinerary

Founded in 1701 by a French explorer and adventurer, Detroit exerted a profound impact on the world for most of the 20th century.

Explore the numerous day-trip ideas around Detroit: Auburn Hills (SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium & Great Lakes Crossing Outlets), Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm (in Rochester Hills) and Kellogg Park (in Plymouth). And it doesn't end there: admire the masterpieces at Detroit Institute of Arts, take a stroll through Campus Martius Park, examine the collection at Detroit Historical Museum, and enjoy breathtaking views from GM Renaissance Center.

For traveler tips, ratings, where to stay, and more tourist information, refer to the Detroit online attractions planner.

Use the Route module to see travel options from your home to Detroit. In December, daily temperatures in Detroit can reach 37°F, while at night they dip to 27°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 20th (Sun) so you can drive to Lansing.

Lansing is the capital of the US state of Michigan. Change things up with these side-trips from Lansing: Michigan International Speedway (in Brooklyn) and Howell's MainStreet Winery (in Howell). There's lots more to do: look for gifts at Horrocks Farm Market, admire the masterpieces at Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum, gain insight at Michigan State University, and tour the pleasant surroundings at River Trail.

To see traveler tips, more things to do, maps, and other tourist information, refer to the Lansing trip itinerary planner.

Traveling by car from Detroit to Lansing takes 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus; or fly. In December, daytime highs in Lansing are 36°F, while nighttime lows are 24°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Wed) to allow enough time to drive back home.