Michigan’s ‘longest-running garage sale’ draws tourism to Southwest Michigan this weekend

Michigan’s longest yard sale kicks off Friday. Since 2003, the annual US-12 garage sale has spanned more than 200 miles of freeway across southern Michigan.

Every second weekend in August, thousands of people come to visit garage sales in communities from New Buffalo to Detroit.

From Friday to Sunday, you can visit a variety of businesses and communities along the historic trail.

For the past 19 years, the sale has helped people get out into the community, not only to buy goods, buy from local art vendors, farmers, and see shows and other attractions.

US-12 Heritage Trail project coordinator Kris Martin says the event draws people from all over the region in southwestern Michigan.

“We have a lot of people traveling in the state,” Martin said. “We also have people from Ohio, Indiana and Illinois reaching out to me and asking for advice. People are selling everything from cars to RVs to motorcycles to various antiques, clothing art, clothing, children’s items.There is a long list on our website.You can actually sort by product on your sale or by city or community.

The three-day sale brings business to local vendors, communities, nonprofits and historical groups. Martin says the sale has grown over his nineteen years and is helping communities along the way.

“A lot of communities and nonprofits or historical groups will also be renting space,” Martin said. “So that also helps a lot of businesses along the way. Not only does it attract people for it, but we also love supporting the local economy, supporting local restaurants, or staying in bed and breakfasts or hotels. Some people even camp and stay in an RV.

If you’re planning on going out, keep in mind that most vendors take cash.

Martin wants to remind visitors to be safe. If you feel sick, we encourage you to send a friend to do the shopping for you.

While driving, be careful along the highway and be sure to park safely when stopping at each location.

Pre-plan your trip here.