Great Lakes and Michigan FAQs

Find out all you need to know about visiting Great Lakes and Michigan.

When is the best time to visit Great Lakes and Michigan?

The best time to visit Great Lakes & Michigan is April to September when the weather is warmest with the most sunshine. Spring arrives between mid-March and early April until May with an average temperature of 10°C but can vary widely 2-20°C. This is the best time to see wild flowers and waterfalls. Summer (June – early September) brings average temperatures ranging 18-28°C but can be hot especially in July. The towns and cities have a range of festivals in summer and autumn. The weather in autumn (September and October) is a comfortable average of 12°C, but can range 5-20°C. The autumn colours make this an attractive time to visit. Winter temperatures (November to March) range 10°C to -10°C with harsher conditions further north and cold winds off the lakes. Snow is most common December-February, the ideal time for winter sports.

What is the official language of Great Lakes and Michigan?

English is widely spoken in Great Lakes & Michigan.

How do I manage my travel money in Great Lakes and Michigan?

The official currency of the USA is the United States dollar (USD). Cash, credit, and debit cards are widely accepted, and cash machines are easy to access.

What places combine well with Great Lakes and Michigan?

Great Lakes & Michigan can be combined with the Dakotas to the west, New York State and Pennsylvania to the east or Toronto and Ontario to the north-east.

What are the main cultural events in Great Lakes and Michigan?

The cities of the Great Lakes host a range of festivals throughout the year. Chicago has some iconic music festivals in summer and autumn, including Chicago Blues Festival in June, Lollapalooza in August, Chicago Jazz Festival in September, as well as a huge Thanksgiving parade in November. Milwaukee hosts Summerfest, the world’s largest music festival over three weekends in June and July. Detroit hosts one of America’s best jazz festivals in September, while St Paul is famous for its Winter Carnival in January/February.

The region’s lakeside communities also host some great events. Door County hosts Lighthouse Fest with 11 lighthouses open to the public in June and September, while Mackinac Island hosts a Lilac Festival in June and Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinak, the world’s longest freshwater sailing event in June. Traverse City holds its famous National Cherry Festival in July, and a Wine and Art Festival in August.