Ultimate Michigan bucket list: 23 places we missed

It was inevitable.

Sharing an "ultimate" list of any kind with thousands of readers was sure to elicit a response.

First, with selections from Detroit Free Press staffers, we compiled an "Ultimate Michigan bucket list." In it we spotlighted 50 fantastic things to do in the Great Lakes State. But of course, Michigan offers far more than 50 great things to see and do.

So we asked readers: What did we miss? And boy, did they come through. Here are 23 additions to our original Michigan bucket list.

Witness the beauty of Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Experience the majestic beauty of Michigan's waterfalls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Sprawling across 13 miles of largely undeveloped woodlands, the park offers one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The easily accessible Upper Falls measure nearly 50 feet down and 200 feet across. From there, take a ride four miles downstream and you'll find the less dramatic but equally incredible Lower Falls. The park is open year-round and offers numerous recreational activities in all seasons, including hunting, snowshoeing, canoeing, camping and photography, to name a few.

Get artsy at the Ann Arbor Art Fair

For four days every summer, Ann Arbor transforms into a mecca of all things artistic. Prints, drawings, photographs, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, wood, glass, leather, mixed media, digital, craftwork and paintings line the streets, attracting 500,000 visitors from across the country. The event celebrated its 56th year this year and is one of the oldest and largest events of its kind. The 2016 event is slated for July 21-24.

Drive along M-22

Recently voted America's Best Scenic Autumn Drive, long-time Michiganders are quick to gush about the beauty of the M-22 highway. The 116-mile stretch of M-22 brings visitors through the peaceful countryside and along the shore, past wineries, galleries and, during the fall, an amazing path of colorful trees.

Get lost in the aisles at John K. King Used & Rare Books

Nestled right off the Lodge freeway (M-10) at Howard Street, this Detroit gem stands as Michigan's largest store of used and rare books. There are four floors to navigate, spanning numerous topics, and a knowledgeable staff on hand. Just don't ask if they carry a certain book. Their collection is almost completely unarchived. So no computer searching here.

Watch a vehicle being made at Ford Rouge Factory Tour

Watch as a Ford F-150 pickup truck is assembled before your very eyes. Take look back at the history of the Ford River Rouge Complex (the largest integrated factory in the world when completed in 1928) and view historic vehicles produced at the plant. There's also an observation deck that includes a living roof.

Load up on Vitamin Z at the Detroit Zoo

Pack up the family and spend the day at Michigan's largest paid family attraction (more than 1.3 million visitors annually), which boasts more than 2,500 animals. There are old standbys, such as the beloved bear fountain, as well as fan favorite Arctic Ring of Life (i.e. the polar bears). A new wolf exhibit opened this year and a penguin center – reportedly the largest in the world - is scheduled to open in early 2016.

Enjoy the solitude of the Porcupine Mountains

Your road trip to the Upper Peninsula should undoubtedly include a visit to the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Sixty-thousand square miles of virgin timber, secluded lakes and wild rivers and streams remain virtually unchanged since the park's establishment in 1945. Whether you're mountain biking along the trails or backcountry camping, keep an eye out for more than beautiful scenery: Black bears are frequently encountered in the park.

Take a 360° tour:

Sing-a-long at the Motown Museum

A virtual who's who of American music legends recorded at this house on West Grand Boulevard in Detroit. Stand in the studio where the likes of Diana Ross and the Supremes, Smokey Robinson and the Miracles and Stevie Wonder recorded some of their greatest hits. You can even sing a few bars, if you're so inclined. The museum offers a huge display of historic Motown artifacts, memorabilia and photographs, as well.

Walk through Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

After mere minutes, you will see why this is one of Michigan's top tourist attractions. There are dozens of sculptures, inside and out, by some of the most noted artists in the world, including George Segal, Marshall Fredericks, Dale Chihuly and Keith Haring. Highlights are Leonardo da Vinci's Horse and the children's garden, complete with treehouse, butterfly maze and, yes, child-centric sculptures. The melding of art and environment is magical.

Float through the Port Huron Float Down

Grab your inner-tube, inflatable cooler and sunscreen. Thousands turn out every year for the Port Huron Float Down, a day of gliding down the St. Clair River from Lighthouse Beach in Port Huron all the way to Chrysler Beach in Marysville. It's believed the event dates back to 1977 when about 12 people made up the flotilla.

Indulge your green thumb at Holland's Tulip Time Festival

Entering its 87th year, the Tulip Time festival features 4.5 million tulips, planted and ready to blossom in early spring. The event offers entertainment, parades, Tulip City tours, local arts and culture and fun for children of all ages. You'll find top-notch tulip plantings all across the area, but be sure to cruise Tulip Lanes, starting on 12th St. and River Avenue for six miles of brilliant tulips stretching through city streets. The 2016 event is slated for May 7-14.

Walk the city's cobbled streets at Detroit Historical Museum

Located on Woodward in the Cultural Center, the Detroit Historical Museum showcases more than 300 years of Motor City history. Interactive exhibits let you explore the streets of Detroit's past (1840s to 1900s), learn about the city's role in the Underground Railroad and explore the rich legacy of Detroit's music scene in the Kid Rock Music Lab. Admission to the museum is free. With so much to see, plan to spend a day.

Take in a game at the Big House

Home to the University of Michigan's football team, Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor is the largest stadium in the U.S. It has an official capacity of 107,601, but can withstand crowds in excess of 115,000. On Sept. 7, 2013, the game between Notre Dame and Michigan attracted a crowd of 115,109, a record for a college contest. There's nothing quite like the atmosphere of a college football game. And for a fan of the Wolverines, getting lost in a sea of maize and blue is the best place to be on a crisp fall afternoon.

Spend a few days at Baroque on Beaver (Island)

If you enjoy classical music, Baroque on Beaver will be a highlight of your summer. Held annually in the last week of July and first week of August, this 10-day music festival features mostly classical music and includes concerts from orchestral, choral, solo and chamber ensembles. The Detroit Symphony Orchestra is just one of the many professional groups you'll find on the island. All performances are free, except benefit events. Donations are welcome.

Get adventurous at Silver Lake Sand Dunes

Silver Lake Sand Dunes offer adventure and amazing scenery. A dune buggy ride is the best way to appreciate the silky sand and gorgeous views of Silver Lake and Lake Michigan. You can cruise the dunes with a tour guide, rent an off-road vehicle or bring your own. The scenic towns of Pentwater, Hart and Mears beckon with a mix of upscale shops and tourist attractions. Little Sable Point Lighthouse and the diverse attractions of Ludington are nearby.

Get a 360° tour of Silver Lake State Park:

See the city, get fit on a Slow Roll

If you weren't aware of Detroit's growing bicycle culture, grab your bike and head into the city on a Monday night. Slow Roll, founded in 2010, is Michigan's largest weekly bike ride, welcoming up to 4,500 people for a slow ride through some of Detroit's most unique streets and neighborhoods. All ages and skill levels are welcome. Annual memberships ($10) are required to participate, but free memberships are available to those who can not pay.

Salute our state's only president at Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum

Dedicated to the 38th President of the United States, this Grand Rapids museum is one of 13 presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration. Visitors can review events in the lives of President Ford and Mrs. Ford before, during and after political office. Top draws are an exact replica of the Oval Office and a huge piece of the Berlin Wall. But don't plan your visit just yet. The facility will be closed until summer 2016 as crews install new interactive exhibits and conduct renovations.

Experience the wonder of America's Thanksgiving Parade

Take in one of the country's largest and most spectacular parades, held every Thanksgiving along Woodward in Detroit. The 2015 parade will mark the 32nd appearance of the Distinguished Clown Corp, unmistakable in their their colorful costumes, painted faces and unusually large feet. The Big Head Corps. marching along, the intricate and spectacular floats and huge balloons overhead are sure to thrill the child in everyone.

Stop and sip at the Cider Mill

With dozens of amazing cider mills and apple orchards to choose from, warm donuts and apple cider are an autumn staple for thousands of Michiganders. Did you know apples are Michigan's largest and most valuable fruit crop? Get in on the fun by picking your own Gala, Honeycrisp or Red Delicious right from the tree. You'll find more information about these great spots here.

Get on your feet and walk the Big Mac Bridge

Spanning the Straits of Mackinac to connect Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, the Mackinac Bridge — at 26,372 feet — is the world's 16th-longest in total suspension. Every Labor Day, folks walk the length of the bridge, traditionally led by the governor of Michigan. This is the sole exception to the law prohibiting pedestrians on the bridge.

Dream big or find a new ride at the auto show

The North American International Auto Show is the country's premiere automotive event. For nine days in January, the public eagerly floods Cobo Center to check out new rides, concept cars and technologies that will shape the future of the industry. They don't call this Motown for nothing. The 2016 public show is scheduled for Jan. 16-24.

Enjoy the works at ArtPrize

From traditional to contemporary to avant-garde, every art form is represented at ArtPrize, by artists of varying backgrounds and experience. Wander the streets of Grand Rapids or along the Grand River as well as the more than 150 indoor sites, from the city's art museum to the comic book store. Works are truly everywhere. When your feet feel a bit weary, visit a restaurant or pub to discuss your favorites. And don't forget to vote. That's because, unlike most traditional art competitions, winners here are chosen by the public. Runs late September through early October.

Celebrate everything cherry in Traverse City

Named one of USA TODAY's top 10 annual festivals, Traverse City's National Cherry Fest is the place to be for all things cherry. The state's signature fruit-filled event typically welcomes more than 500,000 visitors every year and includes a cherry pie eating contest, music performances, aerial acrobatics and a variety of events for the entire family. The 2016 event will run July 2-9.