Travel Log: Michigan

Stock cars recently made a trip to Brooklyn, Mich., for June races, and the focus was on the local attractions the village has to offer.

With a return trip this weekend, visitors find that there's still local flavor surrounding the Irish Hills. And in addition to that, there's quick day-trips to the big cities that sit nearby.

From Detroit's musical heritage to the state capital and its down-home atmosphere, a quick drive north or east provides a vast difference in entertainment and pleasure.

MAP OF BROOKLYN, MICH.
Click here for directions and an aerial map.

DID YOU KNOW?
Michigan's four Great Lakes make up 3,000 miles of coastline, making it the longest freshwater shoreline in the world. Source: seeamerica.org

WHAT THE AREA OFFERS
Lansing / East Lansing -- Just 55 miles north of Brooklyn is Lansing and East Lansing. The state's capital sits in Lansing, which is Michigan's fifth-largest city by population. But the area doesn't stick to its big-city mantra, with cider mills, carriage rides and trips back in time.
• Country Mill Farms
• Uncle John's Cider Mill
• Crystal Falls Horse and Carriage Co.
• Meridian Historical Village
• RE Olds Transportation Museum

Detroit -- A 75-mile drive east takes one to Detroit. Whether it's music, culture or cars, the city has an atmosphere has more to it than an outsider might think. Visitors are encouraged to "experience the D." And there are several ways to do that.
• Motown Historical Museum
• Greektown
• The Henry Ford
• Detroit People Mover

MUST-VISIT RESTAURANT
Jimmy's Filling Station -- This is a long way from Mayberry, but a truly cultured visitor can't resist a place called the filling station. Trying to find a review of this local stop is not easy. But from quick searches, it looks like pizza may be the top choice.
• For more information, click here

WEATHER FORECAST
Mostly sunny with some clouds creeping in late in the weekend. Highs in the mid-70s. Complete forecast

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL
Let NASCAR.COM help book your last-minute travel. Click here