USA’s 100 Best Summer City Destinations: 3 Michigan Cities Ranked

Summer is the best time of year to explore Michigan's metros and all they offer. So, it's easy to see why three of Michigan's finest cities made the list of the best summer destinations in the United States. Let's face it: when you think of Michigan summers, your mind drifts to pontoons, gardens, and bonfires. Often, we'll spend an entire sunkissed season on the water or getting our hands dirty on projects that require cooperation from Mother Nature and never set foot in one of the state's largest cities.

Related: Toes in the Sand: The 11 Best Beaches in Michigan

Whether it's exploring shops and restaurants or experiencing the nightlife in one of Michigan's outdoor social districts, our cities remain sadly unexplored by many residents. Detroit has seen a tremendous renaissance in the last several years, with new shops and enterprises popping up seemingly weekly, but did it make WalletHub's Top 100 City Summer Destinations in the US?

Where Michigan Ranks in WalletHub's Top 100 City Summer Destinations in the US

I don't speak ill of Michigan winters, but I've never found it easy to navigate Michigan cities during the coldest of our seasons. While a December stroll through a bustling downtown, taking in the different hues of lights, sounds wonderful, the reality is there will be piles of snow and salt-coated sidewalks (you hope, anyway), making parking and walking more of a challenge.

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Meanwhile, in the summer, Michigan cities come to life with outdoor seating, sidewalk sales, and various festivals and events. While parking may still be a challenge, at least you won't have to deal with snowdrifts while walking to your destination.

WalletHub, looking at activities, weather, attractions, safety, and average local costs, ranked cities across the United States for summer destination friendliness.

Related: Danger Zones: Michigan's 10 Most Hazardous Cities After 9 PM

While three Michigan metros made the list, only one landed in the Top 20 nationally. Keep reading to see where Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Detroit ranked.