Michigan Travel Deals & Discounts: Attraction Passes, Free Tickets & Smart Ways to Save
Michigan is packed with unforgettable places to explore—from world-class museums and scenic state parks to quirky roadside stops and island getaways. But you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy it.
This guide brings together real, current ways to save on Michigan travel—including digital attraction passes, library perks, travel-friendly memberships, and seasonal discounts. Whether you’re a local planning a weekend escape or visiting from out of state, these tips can help you stretch your budget without cutting out the fun.
💡 See a great deal we missed—or notice one that’s no longer valid? Let us know in the comments so we can keep this list fresh for everyone!
🎟️ Attraction Passes & City Deals
You won’t find a CityPASS for Michigan (yet!), but there are still some seriously smart ways to save on attractions across the state. From library-linked passes to regional discount programs, here are a few ways to cut your ticket costs before you even leave home.
📚 Michigan Activity Pass (MAP Program)
Through local libraries, you can access free or discounted admission to more than 400 attractions across Michigan—including museums, parks, and cultural sites. All you need is a library card and a destination in mind.
🔗 tln.lib.mi.us/map💡 MAP passes can be printed or displayed digitally and often include parking discounts, buy-one-get-one offers, or free admission days.
🎟️ Explore Detroit Pass
A digital savings pass that gets you access to 30+ Detroit attractions and experiences, including museums, food tours, and family-friendly activities.
🔗 visitdetroit.com
🌆 Attraction Pass GR
Grand Rapids’ own digital pass for deals at museums, nature centers, and other top stops around the city. Just sign up and show your pass on your phone.
🔗 experiencegr.com
🧩 LEGOLAND Michigan + SEA LIFE Combo Tickets
If you’re visiting Great Lakes Crossing, you can save by bundling LEGOLAND Discovery Center and SEA LIFE Aquarium tickets.
🔗 legolanddiscoverycenter.com💳 Smart Memberships That Unlock Travel Discounts Nationwide
Some memberships do more than just get you into your local zoo or museum—they can save you money across the country, and especially here in Michigan. Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or a full road trip, these programs are worth a look. Many pay for themselves in just a couple visits.
💡 Buy your membership at a participating location (like your local zoo or museum), then enjoy discounts or free admission at partner locations around the country.
🦁 AZA Reciprocal Membership (Zoos & Aquariums)
Get 50% off or free admission to hundreds of AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums nationwide. Popular Michigan participants include the Detroit Zoo, John Ball Zoo, and Binder Park Zoo.
🔗 aza.org💡 Buying a zoo membership just for the discounts? Check Groupon first—some memberships are listed there with extra savings. Also, take a moment to compare the options: to qualify for the best AZA reciprocal benefits, you’ll want a membership level of at least 100%, or choose a zoo you’ll visit regularly to get the most value out of the deal.
🔬 ASTC Passport Program (Science Centers & Museums)
Free general admission to 360+ science centers and museums, including out-of-state options and several in Michigan—like the Michigan Science Center (Detroit), Cranbrook Institute of Science, and Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum.
🔗 astc.org💡 Your home museum must be 90+ miles away from the attraction to qualify for the ASTC discount—check before you go!
🖼️ NARM (North American Reciprocal Museum Association)
Free or discounted admission to over 1,400 art museums, botanical gardens, and historical sites. Michigan participants include the Muskegon Museum of Art, Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, and more.
🔗 narmassociation.org
🧒 ACM Reciprocal Network (Children’s Museums)
Get 50% off admission for up to six people at over 200 children’s museums. Michigan has several locations, including Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Sterling Heights.
🔗 findachildrensmuseum.org
🌿 AHS Reciprocal Admissions Program (Gardens & Conservatories)
Free access to 380+ gardens and nature centers, including popular Michigan sites like Frederik Meijer Gardens and Dow Gardens.
🔗 ahsgardening.org
💡 These memberships often pay for themselves in just a couple visits—and they make great gifts for families or travelers who love to explore.
🏨 Vacation Packages, Bundles & Booking Deals
If you’re booking a hotel or planning a full vacation, bundling can save you both time and money. These sites offer discounts on hotels, flights, and packages—some even come with loyalty points or extra perks.
🛏️ Mission Point Resort (Mackinac Island)
Offers seasonal packages that include lodging, dining credits, ferry tickets, and more. Great for couples, families, and group getaways—especially during shoulder seasons.
🔗 missionpoint.com
🌐 Expedia
Customize your trip and earn OneKeyCash for future travel. Look out for member-only prices and flash deals.
🏨 Hotels.com
Stay 10 nights, get 1 night free. Perfect for frequent travelers and road-trippers visiting multiple Michigan destinations.
🔁 Orbitz
Bundle hotel + flights and earn Orbucks to use on future bookings. Good for multi-stop travel or weekend trips.
🔎 Kayak
Compare package prices across sites. Useful for checking flight + hotel combo deals from nearby airports like Detroit, Grand Rapids, or Traverse City.
✈️ Southwest Vacations
Flying from or to Detroit? Check Southwest’s bundles for airfare + hotel deals. Some include Rapid Rewards points.
🧳 Costco Travel
Costco members can access package deals that include room upgrades, resort credits, and extra perks. Especially strong for upscale resorts and family vacation planning.
💡 Many of these sites offer rewards points or exclusive member pricing—compare a few before you book to find the best bundle for your trip.
🛍️ Deal Sites That Also Offer Rewards or Freebies
These platforms regularly feature deals on Michigan activities, attractions, and local experiences—and some of them even let you earn points, cash back, or future savings with every booking.
🛒 Groupon
Discounted tickets, local tours, restaurants, and more. Great for last-minute finds or trying something new without paying full price.
🔗 groupon.com💡 Groupon often runs promo codes on top of existing deals.
🎟️ LivingSocial
Rotating discounts on local tours, food, and attractions. Offers some deals not listed elsewhere—perfect for filling in your itinerary.
🔗 livingsocial.com
🌍 Viator
Tours and experiences in cities like Detroit, Traverse City, and Grand Rapids. Look for flash sales and bundle discounts—and earn Viator Rewards Points on eligible bookings to use toward future adventures.
🔗 viator.com
🧭 GetYourGuide
Browse Michigan-based attractions and tours, especially in popular areas like Mackinac or the UP. Earn airline miles or points through select partners.
🔗 getyourguide.com
💬 TripAdvisor
Sometimes includes tour and ticket deals in addition to reviews. Active users can earn TripCollective badges and status recognition.
🔗 tripadvisor.com
🛫 Expedia
Beyond vacation packages, you’ll often find attraction ticket deals—plus you earn OneKeyCash for every booking.
🎫 Eventbrite
Find free or low-cost local events, festivals, and pop-ups throughout Michigan. Great for spontaneous outings or seasonal events.
🔗 eventbrite.com
💡 Always check these sites before booking directly—you might find the same experience at a better price, or earn points you can use later.
🐟 DNR Discovery Kits & State Park Lending Programs
Several Michigan libraries now offer DNR Explorer Packs that include:
- A Recreation Passport for free day-use entry into Michigan state parks
- Binoculars, field guides, and family-friendly nature tools
Check with your library to see if one is available to check out!
💡 Before heading out, always double-check the attraction’s website or your library’s policies—some passes may be limited or require advance booking.
🎫 Other Ways to Save on Michigan Travel
Some discounts aren’t tied to a specific city or attraction—but if you qualify, they’re worth checking every time you travel. Whether you’re a member of a travel club, using assistance programs, or just want to plan smarter, these options can help you stretch your trip budget.
🚗 AAA & AARP Member Discounts
If you’re a member of AAA or AARP, be sure to check their travel savings pages before booking hotels, rental cars, or admission tickets.
💡 You don’t have to be a senior to join AARP—anyone 18+ can sign up and access the benefits. And depending on where you stay, one hotel booking could nearly cover the cost of membership.
🏛️ Museums for All (SNAP EBT Discounts)
Many Michigan museums offer $3 or less admission for guests who present an EBT card through the Museums for All program. This is available year-round and includes locations like the Michigan Science Center, Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, and more.
🔗 museums4all.org
🏦 Museums on Us (Bank of America Cardholders)
On the first full weekend of each month, BOA and Merrill cardholders get free general admission to select museums, including the Charles H. Wright Museum and Detroit Institute of Arts.
🔗 bankofamerica.com/museums💡 Cardholder must present ID and valid BOA/Merrill card—check with the museum for exact eligibility and what’s included.
🎁 Bonus Freebies & Seasonal Travel Perks in Michigan
Some of the best Michigan experiences are totally free—if you time your trip right. From outdoor access passes to special annual programs, these seasonal perks are perfect for families, nature lovers, and budget-conscious travelers.
🐟 Free Fishing Weekends
Michigan hosts two free fishing weekends every year—usually one in February and one in June. During these weekends, residents and non-residents can fish without a license on all public waters (though regulations still apply).
🔗 michigan.gov/freefishing
❄️ Free Snowmobiling Weekends
On select weekends in the winter, the DNR waives trail permit fees, allowing you to ride designated snowmobile trails across Michigan for free. Snowmobile registration is still required.
🔗 michigan.gov/dnr
🏞️ Every Kid Outdoors (4th Grade National Park Pass)
If you have a 4th grader, they can receive a free annual pass that covers entry to all U.S. national parks—including Sleeping Bear Dunes, Pictured Rocks, and other stunning Michigan locations. The pass is valid for the entire family traveling with the student.
🔗 everykidoutdoors.gov💡 This is a perfect excuse to plan a Michigan national park trip and turn it into a learning adventure.
🧭 Explore More Michigan Adventures
Ready to plan your trip? Check out these helpful guides for more ideas, inspiration, and budget-friendly fun:
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
Quincy Mine
⚠️ Disclaimer & Friendly Note
We do our best to keep this post updated with the latest deals, passes, and budget travel tips—but offers can change without notice. Admission policies, seasonal events, and booking platforms sometimes shift their terms.
If you know of a great deal we should add—or if you notice something that’s no longer valid—please let us know in the comments or send us a message.
💬 Your tips might help someone else save too—so don’t be shy!
