Travel Log: Michigan

The drive alone is worth the trip. It's the Irish Hills, and it's one of the most scenic stops on the circuit.

From lakes to rolling overlooks, Brooklyn, Mich., was settled as a village in 1832 under the name Swainsville (the name changed four years later). Travelers headed west often stopped in this area seeking lodging and a watering hole. By the looks of things, it's a wonder they left.

Parks and gardens, historical stops and cultural cuisine -- they each dot the region, which is a short drive from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Motown Historical Museum -- Just a short drive to Detroit will land visitors to one of the best stops in the state, where "the values of vision, creativity and entrepreneurship" shine through one of history's most popular musical styles. Marvin Gaye, the Jackson 5, the Supremes, the Temptations, Stevie Wonder ... their history is preserved.
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JKryscnski -- The BBQ Shack (what a name) is an easy stop between I-94 and MIS. Pick up/takeout enough sweet BBQ, beans, slaw and potato salad for your pre- and post-race tailgate. Grab napkins -- or not.

Join the Michigan International Speedway Crew

Thursday: Partly sunny with a high of 86 degrees, low of 65
Friday: Mostly cloudy with a high of 79 degrees, low of 57
Saturday: Cloudy with a high of 76 degrees, low of 56
Sunday: Partly sunny with a high of 78 degrees, low of 59
Complete Forecast

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• Let NASCAR.COM help book your last-minute travel.
• Directions and aerial map of Brooklyn, Mich.

Wine Country -- it sums up the trip to Northern California. But are there more places to visit? Share your personal favorites here.