N O R T H W E S T
Cadillac
Lowdown: Located in north central Michigan on the shores of Lake Cadillac, which is connected by the Clam Lake Canal to Lake Mitchell. The Clam River, which begins in Cadillac, is part of the Muskegon River watershed. “It’s the diamond on your left hand — a beautiful mix of two lakes, parks, culture, and a quaint little town to explore,” resident Julie Raabe Gentry says.
Must Do: The 660-acre William Mitchell State Park, situated between Lakes Mitchell and Cadillac, provides great beach access and has designated swim areas. For those who enjoy a hike or a bike ride, the 92-mile Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park can be accessed from the east side of Lake Cadillac. A network of trails follows the lake’s shoreline, so be on the lookout for wildlife!
Add to the List: Lake Mitchell is perfect for kayaking.
Favorite Fare: Gentry gives the Clam Lake Beer Co. and Lakeside Charlies (where you can sit on the patio) a thumbs-up for good sandwiches and other casual food.
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Charlevoix
Lowdown: Located on an isthmus between Lake Michigan, Round Lake, and Lake Charlevoix, the city is bisected by the Pine River along U.S. 31, which heads into Petoskey.
Must Do: After shopping downtown, find a seat at Vue Wine Bar and watch the Bridge Street drawbridge in action. You’ll also see the Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse from this vantage point. Lake Michigan Beach is easily accessed from downtown. Hunt for Petoskey or Charlevoix stones at Fisherman’s Island State Park.
Add to the List: Order a lobster roll on the deck at The Landing, on Lake Charlevoix, then take the next-door Ironton Ferry over to the main basin of Lake Charlevoix and enjoy a drive into Boyne City.
Favorite Fare: “Check out the Weathervane Restaurant for a delicious whitefish dinner while you savor a view of the Pine River and Lake Michigan, boats gliding by, and the drawbridge,” says part-time resident Laura Miller. The Happy Troll features a bountiful Cobb salad and gourmet omelets.
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Frankfort
Lowdown: Frankfort sits on the shores of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Betsie River, southwest of Traverse City.
Must Do: Besides beachcombing along soft-sand shorelines, head to the Frankfort Breakwater North Light to catch a fabulous sunset from its pier. Then hit M-22 and drive to the Point Betsie Lighthouse, where you can tour the original 1858 lighthouse keeper’s residence. You can also climb the 34-step tower and visit its museum.
Add to the List: Some of the freshest dips you’ll ever take are in the region’s Crystal Lake and Glen Lake, both sporting matching Caribbean colors, thanks to their depth
and clarity.
Favorite Fare: Rock’s Landing is right on the shores of Crystal Lake. Outdoor seating and an enclosed deck with spectacular views allow you to make the most of Michigan’s great outdoors. Expect local produce and organic meats on the menu, as well as draft beer and specialty cocktails.
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Harbor Springs
Lowdown: Harbor Springs has an ideal location, in a sheltered bay on the north shore of the Little Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan across from Petoskey.
Must Do: Shop in its charming downtown, take in the historic cottages, drive along the jaw-dropping M-119 and its verdant Tunnel of Trees, watch boats in the marina, and sip a cold one at Stafford’s Pier, the town favorite. Zorn Park Beach, close to downtown, is a family-friendly spot.
Add to the List: Drive north on M-119 to Good Hart, then leave M-119 to find Middle Village Park beach behind St. Ignatius Mission Church. A pathway near the church includes access to an Odawa burial ground and leads to the beach.
Favorite Fare: The drinks and appetizers at the Fireplace Lounge at OTIS are refreshing and inventive. At Gurney’s Bottle Shop, local Sarah Wiese suggests making your own sandwich, or recommends that you try a popular combo — including the Trainwreck, which is stacked high with meats, cheeses, and veggies.
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Ludington
Lowdown: Ludington developed around the Pere Marquette Lake and River, where U.S. 10 ends at Lake Michigan.
Must Do: Stearns Park Beach is a beautiful in-town escape with Brunch Babes food truck service. Ludington State Park Beach has 7 miles of pristine Lake Michigan coastline, showcasing expansive dunes and 25 miles of hiking trails.
Add to the List: There are five historic lighthouses within 60 miles of town, with two in Ludington. The S.S. Badger, a National Historic Landmark, offers daily ferry service across Lake Michigan to Manitowoc, Wis., for 620 passengers and 180 cars from May through October. It also offers two-hour evening shoreline cruises on select summer dates.
Favorite Fare: The Cluck Bucket has homemade chicken salad dishes and other sandwiches (almost all with chicken), plus pit-cooked chicken, rice bowls, smoothies, and crowd-pleasing acai bowls. At the Table 14 bistro you’ll find Southern delights such as shrimp and grits, buttermilk-fried chicken, and she-crab soup, to name a few.
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Manistee
Lowdown: Home to 6,300 residents, Manistee is about midway between Traverse City and Muskegon along U.S. 31, and is bisected by the Manistee River and Manistee Lake.
Must Do: This old lumber baron town overflows with beautiful Victorian architecture. Its downtown is on the National Register of Historic Places, and a local self-guided tour features more than 100 sites. The 1.75-mile South Riverwalk has 25 historical markers. Beachgoers need to check out the Fifth Avenue and First Street beaches by the North Pier Lighthouse.
Add to the List: Enjoy exhibits and concerts at the 1903-era Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts. The S.S. City of Milwaukee, a former Lake Michigan car ferry, operates as a boatel in the summer and hosts a Ghost Ship experience in October. Both the S.S. City of Milwaukee and the retired U.S. Coast Guard ship Acacia are available for seasonal tours and facility rentals.
Favorite Fare: Try Blue Fish Kitchen + Bar, located in a historic 1895 building along the river for local fish and meat, or stop in at the Painted Lady Saloon, the oldest operating saloon in town, which is known for its delicious home-made soups.
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Petoskey
Lowdown: Located on the southeast shore of Lake Michigan’s gorgeous Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey is about 36 miles southwest of the Mackinac Bridge.
Must Do: Bring home a famous Petoskey Stone, a fascinating discovery that’s actually the fossilized remains of ancient coral dating back 350 million years. Local Sarah Wiese says you might find them at Solanus Mission Beach, a stony, dune-like environment with 500 feet of beach frontage accessible via a boardwalk.
Add to the List: Take a sunset cruise aboard the Little Traverse Bay Ferry’s Miss Lauren, a 49-passenger water taxi that travels between Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Bay Harbor and offers beautiful views of these towns.
Favorite Fare: Ask about gluten-free options and the quiche of the day at Julienne Tomatoes. Symons General Store offers made-fresh-to-order gourmet deli sandwiches, while Brandy’s Harbortown, in nearby Bay Harbor, is a picture-perfect spot right on the water in Bay Harbor. Casual food options (themed pick-up windows make ordering easy) abound, while the rum-infused Brandy’s Painkiller is a must-try.
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Traverse City
Lowdown: Dominating the entertainment and winery/distillery scene in the state’s gorgeous northwest region, Traverse City is located at the base of the east and west arms of Lake Michigan’s 32-mile-long Grand Traverse Bay.
Must Do: As TC is dubbed the Cherry Capital of the World, many farms offer U-picks in June/July. Stop at the Cherry Republic for everything from chocolate-covered cherries to cherry salsa. Also, Traverse City publicist Mike Kent suggests finding a seat at Jazz at Sunset at Chateau Chantal. On Thursdays in the summer, you can sip some of Michigan’s best wine while enjoying the tunes of world-class jazz musicians.
Add to the List: Nice beach picks include Bowers Harbor Park on stunning Old Mission Peninsula, or West Grand Traverse Bay (the drive itself will impress) and West End Beach closer to town.
Favorite Fare: Pick up picnic treats at Grand Traverse Pie Co., and be sure to get a slice of Michigan cherry crumb pie, Kent says. At Folgarelli’s Market & Wine Shop, choose from more than 45 types of deli sandwiches — but be sure to save room for a cookie.
More Options: For fine dining, consider Artisan Restaurant at the Delamar Hotel. Pork chops, scallops, and Great Lakes walleye, among so much more, are outstanding. Have a sweet tooth? Ask for a slice of the Fluffy Cheesecake, drizzled with salted caramel and other flavors.
On Old Mission Peninsula, the Boathouse Restaurant gets rave reviews for its oysters, halibut, steaks, and more. If you like inventive, try the James Beard award-nominated The Cook’s House — “a classic example of farm-to-table,” says Kent. The owners procure ingredients from regional sources, even for desserts like olive oil cake, which is made with thyme syrup and lemon mascarpone.
L E E L A N U P E N I N S U L A
The 30-mile-long Leelanau Peninsula is northwest of Traverse City and extends into Lake Michigan. Just the name Leelanau evokes relaxation, bringing to mind its scenic M-22 Highway, the dozens of vineyards that soak up the region’s perfect lake effect climate, and the astounding Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Cute coastal towns and villages (see below) such as Leland, Suttons Bay, Empire, Glen Arbor, and others entice with charming downtowns and exquisite beaches, while jewel-toned waters never leave your side — whether it’s the shimmering grand dame (Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay) or the beckoning emerald waters of crystal-clear Glen Lake. You could spend weeks on the peninsula and never tire of its quintessential northern Michigan vibe.
Empire
Lowdown: Located on Lake Michigan in stunning Leelanau County, Empire is famous for its location at the foot of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Must Do: Explore the dunes, which wow even repeat visitors with bluffs that tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, and unique flora and fauna. An island lighthouse, U.S. Life-Saving Service stations, driving tours, and picturesque farmsteads also pepper the park.
Add to the List: All you need is a beach towel, a cooler for your picnic, and sun block to make the most of this gorgeous slice of Michigan paradise. Hit up Empire Beach Village Park first for swimming and sun-bathing before exploring the amazing Sleeping Bear!
Favorite Fare: Pick up lunch goodies at the Shipwreck Café on Lacore Street — it offers fresh sandwiches, salads, and soups to go. Breakfast wraps, muffins, and cookies are also available. For dessert, pick up a box of Grocer’s Daughter chocolates.
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Glen Arbor
Lowdown: About 30 minutes west of Traverse City, this small vacation town is enriched by its beautiful Lake Michigan dunes and Glen Lake surroundings.
Must Do: Visitors love the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore territory for its bucolic setting amid sand, dune grasses, and the Crystal River that flows into Lake Michigan near the famous Homestead Resort’s beach club. The M-22 Inn, a two-story colonial-style motel, is popular for families and is within walking distance of restaurants and shops.
Add to the List: Stop at the original Cherry Republic, and see where the company was born. It’s since expanded, but this shop is considered the mother ship of all things Michigan cherries, from cherry brownie mixes to cherry wines.
Favorite Fare: Vegans, vegetarians, and meat-lovers will be satisfied at the quaint Good Harbor Grill, where fresh local whitefish may grace the menu at lunch and dinner. Try a cinnamon roll, too! Vegans rave about the tofu scrambles for breakfast, and a raspberry jalapeno tofu also entices.
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Leland
Lowdown: The charming commercial fishing town is located between Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau on the northwest side of the Leelanau Peninsula.
Must Do: Catch the flavor of this sweet village by strolling through the quaint Fishtown, right on the Leland River. You can watch the river flow over a dam and into Lake Michigan at The Cove restaurant, known for its take on the Bloody Mary: the Chubby Mary. Among the shanties, tugs, and charter boats are shops and eateries worth exploring for art, smoked fish, and casual apparel.
Add to the List: Stop in at Verterra (meaning “true to the land) for estate-grown fruit used to produce red, white, rose, and sparkling wines that capture the essence of the Leelanau Peninsula. Take a ferry to South Manitou Island for a nice day trip and check out the forests, schoolhouses, sand dunes, and a lighthouse — or visit North Manitou Island for primitive backcountry camping.
Favorite Fare: The Village Cheese Shanty has a huge following and is perfect for finding yummy ingredients for a picnic lunch on Van’s Beach.
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Suttons Bay
Lowdown: You’ll find Suttons Bay midway up the eastern side of the Leelanau Peninsula on the shores of Suttons Bay, a smaller inlet of Grand Traverse Bay.
Must Do: This is wine country, and home to 24 tasting rooms on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. Local resident Susan Wilcox Olson suggests Gilchrist Farm for its “amazing vineyard-to-table fare using local farm ingredients.”
Add to the List: The Suttons Bay Beach, on Front Street, is a fun spot in a beautiful location. You’ll not only find a fine beach here, but also picnic facilities, a playground, and restrooms.
Favorite Fare: The 45th Parallel Café offers lots of flavorful breakfast options, plus burgers and sandwiches. Grab a table at V.I. Grill, where hand-battered Leelanau cheese curds, hearty sandwiches, and braised ribs rule. Olson loves Martha’s Leelanau Table, where in-season Michigan flavors abound.
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U P P E R P E N I N S U L A
Grand Marais
Lowdown: Located on Lake Superior about a two-hour drive west of Sault Ste. Marie, Grand Marais (it was a booming lumber town from 1885 to 1910) is the eastern gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Must Do: Explore the area’s coast by hiking, biking, kayaking, and beach-combing, and to soak up the splendorous sand dunes as they merge with the turquoise waters. Waterfalls, inland lakes, and more attract visitors to this outdoor paradise.
Add to the List: Check out Coast Guard Point’s front range light and rear range light. The Au Sable Light Station, located in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, stands on Au Sable Point west of town. Tours
are available.
Favorite Fare: Lake Superior Brewing Co. serves up good beer (with apropos names — Backwoods, Hematite, and Cabin Fever, for example) and burgers, including olive, blue cheese, and black-bean varieties.
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Marquette
Lowdown: The Upper Peninsula’s largest city is also an energetic college town with great harbor views of Lake Superior. Marquette is about three hours northwest of the
Mackinac Bridge.
Must Do: Head outdoors to experience the U.P. lifestyle, baby! You won’t have to work hard to find stunning waterfalls everywhere. Try kayaking/boarding on the crystal-clear big lake, or choose an inland lake. There are biking and hiking options galore, with some pretty nice elevation changes, as well as 6 miles of Lake Superior beaches. For a real thrill, try surfing those awesome waves!
Add to the List: Discover local history at the Marquette Maritime Museum, Marquette Harbor Lighthouse (book the catwalk tour!), and the Marquette Regional History Center. Snap photos at the 1,000-foot Lower Harbor Ore Dock. At 85 feet tall, it’s one of the most iconic images of America’s iron ore industry. Explore the towering rock formations at Presque Isle Park.
Favorite Fare: Take your pick of 13 breweries and tap houses. The Vierling Restaurant & Marquette Harbor Brewery, in a restored 1883-era downtown building, serves Lake Superior whitefish prepared several delectable ways.
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Mackinac Island
Lowdown: Situated along the Straits of Mackinac, between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, Mackinac is a 3.8-square-mile, car-free island paradise.
Must Do: Rent a bike (or bring your own) to pedal the 8.2-mile island perimeter. You’ll pass cliffs, unique land formations (Arch Rock, for one), a new nature center, Skull Cave, a fort, and more.
Add to the List: Pull up a seat at the Pink Pony bar (inside or on the harbor-view deck) of the historic Chippewa Hotel and order its famous frosty Rum Runner. Pay $10 to tour the majestic Grand Hotel, built in 1887. Visit Fort Mackinac, rent a kayak, or take a horse-drawn carriage tour for a history lesson. On Main Street, pop into Little Luxuries for unique items, Mackinac Outfitter for quality outdoor clothing, and the Somewhere in Time Gallery for selective Mackinac-themed artwork, art supplies, jewelry, and notecards.
Favorite Fare: Order a sandwich, wrap, or a homemade breakfast poppy (similar to a Pop Tart) at the quaint Watercolor Café, right on the harbor. The new Lilac Lounge at Mission Point resort, decked in purple, is an ode to the island’s favorite flower and serves the Lilac Bees Knees (a gin concoction with lavender and honey syrup).
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N O R T H E A S T
Alpena
Lowdown: Alpena is northeast Michigan’s largest city, and is located along U.S. 23 fronting Lake Huron’s Thunder Bay — gateway to the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, which protects 200 historically significant shipwrecks.
Must Do: Visit the impressive Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center to learn about the vast 4,300-square-mile sanctuary that encompasses most of northern Lake Huron. Book a two-hour narrated glass-bottom boat ride to view the Shipwreck Alley graveyard — or kayak over these cool wrecks.
Add to the List: Climb the steep 130 steps to the top of the 1870 New Presque Isle Lighthouse. At 113 feet tall, it’s the tallest lighthouse on the Great Lakes that the public can climb. The less ambitious might enjoy climbing the nearby1840 Old Presque Isle Lighthouse.
Favorite Fare: Check out Red Brick Tap & Barrel, housed in a 130-year-old renovated building that was a saloon for more than a century, for fish & chips. Most of the menu’s ingredients come from local growers. The Old Polish Corner is definitely worth a visit.
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Bay City
Lowdown: Saginaw sits on the banks of the Saginaw River east of I-75, where Michigan’s Mitten attaches to the Thumb at Saginaw Bay.
Must Do: Book a tall ship Appledore IV sailing adventure and travel from downtown’s Wenonah Park into the Saginaw Bay on the tall ship Appledore IV.
Add to the List: Stroll Center Street and check out the historic Victorian mansions that once belonged to lumber barons. If you love live music, Wenonah Park’s bandshell rocks during the summer. On North Water Street, you’ll be among the largest collection of “antiquity” in Michigan: The Bay City Antiques Center features more than 60,000 square feet of oldies but goodies. Have a sweet tooth? You’ll find treats at St. Laurent Brothers, Michigan’s oldest candy store.
Favorite Fare: The Drift Shoreside Beer Garden satisfies with a wide selection of beverages, tacos, barbecue sandwiches, and more.
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Cheboygan
Lowdown: Michigan’s U.S. 23 Heritage Route (a Pure Michigan Byway) bisects Cheboygan, the northern end of the state’s inland waterway that runs from Lake Michigan to Lake Huron. Burt, Mullett, and Black lakes feed the Cheboygan River, which empties into Lake Huron not far from Cheboygan State Park, providing a plethora of waterfront recreation.
Must Do: Locals say Cheboygan County has more trails than any other Michigan county. The North Eastern (from Alpena to Cheboygan) and North Central (from Gaylord to Mackinaw City) State Trails, for example, provide delightful scenic bike-riding or hiking adventures. The 1877-era Cheboygan Opera House hosts numerous arts, cultural, and educational events throughout the year.
Add to the List: Duncan Bay invites bird- watchers and hikers with boardwalks traversing through wetlands and along 3,500 feet of Lake Huron frontage. Turner Park, on the waterfront, is a nice place to relax and picnic.
Favorite Fare: Dating back to 1894, the Hack-Ma-Tack Inn & Restaurant on the Cheboygan River is one of the most iconic dining spots in the state. Order the prime rib or whitefish. If you’re a handcrafted beer lover, check out Cheboygan Brewing Co. downtown. For river and marina action, Pier 33 on the water entices with delectable lunch and dinner selections plus Sunday breakfasts.
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N O R T H E A S T
Houghton Lake
Lowdown: Houghton Lake is one of the largest unincorporated communities in northern Michigan. With the biggest inland lake in the state (named, appropriately, Houghton Lake), it’s a big draw for boaters, watersports enthusiasts, and anglers.
Must Do: Head to Lakeview Park, which offers a scenic view of the lake and has a nice pavilion, fishing dock, and a kayak launch. Located at Federal Avenue and M-55, the park and lake lure fisherfolk thanks to a rich fish habitat that includes walleye, bass, Northern pike, and panfish.
Add to the List: Take it slow in a pontoon and, if you don’t own one, visit docklyne.com for rental information. Love miniature golf? There’s a fun course at Pirate’s Cove in Prudenville, located about 5 miles east of Houghton Lake. History buffs love to stop at Trestle Park and check out its historic railroad trestle, which commemorates the logging days of the late 1800s.
Favorite Fare: Make the most of water views by finding a seat at the Back Door Saloon, which features burgers and gorgeous lake vistas. Part of the region’s history since the 1930s, visitors sense an old-time feel at this popular hangout. Music spun by deejays is also on tap, typically on Saturdays. Locals and visitors claim their Bloody Marys are.
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Indian River
Lowdown: Situated on its namesake river and nestled between two of Michigan’s largest inland lakes — Burt and Mullett — Indian River is a busy communit about 30 miles south of the Mackinac Bridge off I-75.
Must Do: Rent a boat/pontoon or bring your own to explore the meandering and scenic 40-mile inland waterway between lakes Michigan and Huron; camp/swim/boat/picnic at Burt Lake State Park, with its 2,000-foot sandy beach; or grab a tube or kayak from Big Bear Adventures to enjoy the fast-flowing Sturgeon River.
Add to the List: Bike the scenic North Central State Trail to Mackinaw City or Gaylord; visit the Cross in the Woods Catholic National Shrine with its 55-foot outdoor cross (the world’s largest); or hike the nearby 11-mile trail system at Wildwood Hills Pathway.
Favorite Fare: Try the scrumptious whitefish or walleye at the Indian River Golf Club’s Greenside Grille (yes, it’s public), or the baby back ribs and vegan options at Michael’s Tavern & Steakhouse, a restored 1938 log building.
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Mackinaw City
Lowdown: Mackinaw City, the northernmost point of the Lower Peninsula, sits at the southern end of the Mackinac Bridge, which carries I-75 over the Straits of Mackinac to St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula. It’s an access point for ferries to and from Mackinac Island.
Must Do: There’s a completely renovated visitors center and museum store at historic Colonial Michilimackinac, where everyone loves the frequent cannon and musket demonstrations. Sneak away to the less-crowded Heritage Village and Park to tour the grounds and gardens.
Add to the List: Climb the McGulpin Point Lighthouse or stargaze at Headlands International Dark Sky Park over Lake Michigan. Bring a lawn chair, blankets, and snacks for some heavenly views — especially when the Milky Way is visible.
Favorite Fare: “I love El Zarape (an authentic Mexican taqueria) and its grilled chicken enchilada topped with lots of lettuce, salsa, and guac,” says local artist Mary Lou Peters. Or try Audie’s Restaurant, where whitefish is served on a heated maplewood plank. The whitefish is delivered fresh from the Great Lakes daily.
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Rogers City
Lowdown: About an hour drive southeast of the Mackinac Bridge, Rogers City is nestled along the scenic Lake Huron Heritage Route U.S. 23, a 200-mile Sunrise Coast Pure Michigan Byway that leads from Mackinaw City to Standish.
Must Do: Beautiful outdoor murals are displayed on the downtown shops and restaurants, which are close to sandy beaches. The world’s largest open-pit mine is a major part of town, and you can see Great Lakes freighters pulling into the limestone loading docks from a visitor’s platform at Harbor View. The paved 11-mile Huron Sunrise Trail hugs the coastline heading north to Hoeft State Park, and is suitable for people of all ages who like to bike or hike. Stop and picnic on the beach almost anywhere along the trail to the 40 Mile Point Lighthouse, where you can climb the tower and see shipwrecks.
Add to the List: The Presque Isle County Historical Museum focuses on local history, while the Great Lakes Lore Maritime Museum specializes in showcasing the artifacts and memories of those who risked their lives sailing the unpredictable lakes. Seven miles of trails meander along the Trout River at the Herman Vogler Conservation Area.
Favorite Fare: Pull up a Lake Huron-view seat at Up North 23 Restaurant and Lounge to try the pizza and walleye; enjoy the big sandwiches, tasty breakfasts, and small-town crowds at Kortman’s Restaurant; and visit the seasonal Knaebe’s Apple Farm & Ciderworks for house-made hard cider, microbrews, and wood-fired pizzas.
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Saginaw
Lowdown: The Saginaw River flows through the center of the town, which is about 90 minutes north of metro Detroit along the I-75/I-675 triangle.
Must Do: For a special experience, check in at the charming Montague Inn B&B on Lake Linton. Bike the Saginaw Valley Rail Trail, which runs 11 miles south through natural areas and features seven restored railroad bridges. The 1927 Temple Theatre hosts national headline acts ranging from comedians to concerts.
Add to the List: Explore the 18,090-acre Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge with Johnny Panther Quests Ecotours on a three-hour boat ride up the Saginaw River and into what’s considered the wildlife-rich “Everglades of Michigan.” There’s also a 6.5-mile auto wildlife drive through the refuge. Browse the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum on the Saginaw Valley State University campus.
Favorite Fare: In the Old Town entertainment district, the casual/upscale Jake’s Old City Grill serves delightful chophouse entrees and seafood paired with extensive wine and martini selections. The open-air kitchen at the cozy Artisan Urban Bistro creates seasonal dishes. Make reservations early for its spectacular weekend brunch!
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Photo Courtesy of Pure Michigan
Tawas City/East Tawas
Lowdown: These twin cities of lumbering fame are located along scenic U.S. 23 on the shores of Lake Huron’s
Tawas Bay.
Must Do: Stop at the Village Chocolatier for delicious handmade candy to nibble on during the scenic drive east of U.S. 23 to Tawas Point State Park, renowned for its iconic Tawas Point Lighthouse. The 67-foot-tall lighthouse recently underwent a $455,000 restoration. Tawas Point is also a destination for birdwatchers.
Add to the List: Take a kitesurfing lesson at Motor City Kite and Surf in East Tawas. North of town on the River Road National Scenic Byway, you’ll find the Huron-Manistee National Forest’s Lumberman’s Monument Visitor Center. Short trails lead to breathtaking Au Sable River views.
Favorite Fare: The Boathouse Beer Co. & Brewery features handcrafted beer and a menu jammed with entrees, soups, and burgers. Or get a seat on the water’s edge deck at Social Oak Chophouse & Wine Bar. Grab a tall tonic at the outdoor tiki Bikinis Beach Bar, which often has a deejay.
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S O U T H W E S T
Grand Haven
Lowdown: Renowned for its sandy Lake Michigan beaches, this shop- and restaurant-lined town west of Grand Rapids features a boardwalk that runs along the harbor to Grand Haven State Park beach and the south pier.
Must Do: The lights on the south pier make for gorgeous photo backdrops. You can access the boardwalk and view the lighthouses from the beach at Grand Haven State Park.
Add to the List: Hike nearby Rosy Mound, which is “a bit of a trek with lots of stairs through winding trails and dunes, but when you finally reach the overlook, the view of Lake Michigan is absolutely breathtaking,” says Grand Haven cottage owner Sue Keels. The seasonal 1962 Grand Haven Musical Fountain features 20-minute synchronized light and water shows at dusk during the summer.
Favorite Fare: “The tucked-away JW’s has the best perch basket in town, lightly battered and perfectly crisp, served with house-made slaw and fries,” Keels says. A few miles from Grand Haven and nestled in the woods is The Arboreal Inn, a classic Spring Lake fine-dining establishment. “It’s locally owned and the food and service are amazing,” Keels notes. And be sure to order the lobster bisque. “It’s delicious and such a classic — very old-school, but that’s why we love it.” Keels also recommends Noto’s at the Bil-Mar for its outstanding lake view and the crab-stuffed whitefish. “We also love their wood-fired oven pizza.”
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Holland
Lowdown: Located on the shores of Lake Macatawa, seconds from Lake Michigan, where U.S. 31 and I-196 meet, is the beautiful city of Holland.
Must Do: Tulip Time, the oldest tulip festival in the world, features millions of gorgeous flowers and honors the town’s Dutch heritage (the 2026 festival runs from May 1-10). Lovely beaches and a hopping downtown are summertime draws. The much-photographed Big Red Lighthouse stands by the channel that connects Lake Macatawa to Lake Michigan. (Read more about Tulip Time in this issue’s Get Outdoors section.)
Add to the List: Hit the area’s sand dune-wrapped beaches, including those at Holland State Park. Tunnel Park has an actual tunnel through a sand dune, while the not-so-crowded Laketown Beach is more secluded and offers spectacular views of Lake Michigan.
Favorite Fare: Head to Butch’s Dry Dock (a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence winner) for a drink and appetizer on the bar side. Warm sourdough bread with smoked sea salt butter and truffle cauliflower paired with Michigan’s Left Foot Charley Riesling is a winner.
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Muskegon
Lowdown: The Muskegon area features 26 miles of white sandy shoreline, several inland lakes that provide access to Lake Michigan, two rivers for paddle sports, and a re-energized walkable downtown that is alive with restaurants, retail, and arts and cultural events.
Must Do: Spend the day at one of two scenic state parks — Muskegon or P.J. Hoffmaster — that are packed with a variety of outdoor activity options and dune adventures. The city’s Pere Marquette Park features easy access to the 1,514-foot pier or the Muskegon Channel to see/tour the historic USS Silversides Submarine museum, Muskegon South Breakwater Light, and the Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse.
Add to the List: The Aquastar has themed boat cruises and sunset sailings on Muskegon Lake and through the Muskegon Channel to view Lake Michigan. Research the local bike trails because they connect with lots of longer routes beyond town. Several museums that are worth visiting are guaranteed to entertain history buffs.
Favorite Fare: The Deck (it won a Best of Blue award this past year) at Pere Marquette Park entertains guests with barbeque, beer, and live music outdoors on the beach. BoDocks Marina Bar and Grill in Harbour Towne has boat slip space. The Muskegon Brewing Co.’s large deck showcases Muskegon Lake. Or, for a fun happy hour, try Liquid Assets Cocktail & Wine Bar.
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Saugatuck/Douglas
Lowdown: Southwest of Grand Rapids, between the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and I-96, Saugatuck and Douglas are rich with culture and are known for their galleries, inns, beaches, and cuisine. The region, including nearby Fennville, is known as the Art Coast of Michigan, thanks to its rich legacy of creativity that dates back to the early 20th century with the founding of the Ox-Bow School of Art and Artists’ Residency in Saugatuck. Ox-Bow drew artists, especially from Chicago, who were inspired by the area. Today, visitors can explore dozens of art galleries and studios showcasing a variety of styles and mediums.
Must Do: In addition to the galleries and shops, these towns are also known for their six Lake Michigan beaches, as well as quaint inns and eateries. Book a night at the Wickwood Inn, recently refined with a cozy-but-chic aesthetic, where there’s always something to nibble on in the inn’s library (it could be carrot cake, or a large plate of charcuterie with wine). Breakfast includes savory, homemade turkey sausage. The revamped Forest Inn (the former Sherwood Forest B&B), in Douglas, is now open after extensive renovations were made to the main house, the cottage, and the grounds.
Add to the List: Fruit farms and wineries dot this region’s countryside roads, thanks to the moderating influence of Lake Michigan and favorable soil conditions. You’ll find numerous farm stands, too, where you can purchase fresh-off-the-farm produce.
Favorite Fare: Saugatuck locals give a thumbs-up to the upscale Bowdies Chophouse, and also recommend the tasty burgers and other fare at Pumpernickels.
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South Haven
Lowdown: Positioned on Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Black River, South Haven is about an hour north of the Indiana state line off of I-196.
Must Do: Of the 10 public beaches, families love South Beach because of its access to the South Haven Lighthouse and its concession stand, picnic areas, and playground. North Beach is also popular. The South Haven South Pierhead Light is at the entrance to the Black River. It was lit in 1872 and is still operational; the original catwalk links the tower to the shore.
Add to the List: Van Buren State Park is known for its tremendously high dune formations (some reach up to 200 feet). Try a Beachtown Buggies rental to cruise the dunes or explore the Michigan Marine Museum, which includes changing exhibits and a fleet of period and replica vessels available to visitors for on-water experiences.
Favorite Fare: Clementine’s, located in the Citizen’s State building that was constructed in 1896, features lots of choices for all ages, from chicken fingers to steaks.
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St. Joseph/Benton Harbor
Lowdown: Located in the southwest corner of the state on the bluffs of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the St. Joseph River, St. Joseph and Benton Harbor are about 90 miles from Chicago.
Must Do: Silver Beach County Park has access to the South Pier Light and lots of swimming space. Sunset lovers like Tiscornia Beach Park, where you can tour the North Pier Lighthouse. Live theater, tall-ship sailing, boat rentals, cideries, dairy farms, lavender fields, wine trails, and beaches can all be found in this region.
Add to the List: Antiques on the Bluff in Lake Bluff Park, overlooking Lake Michigan, features more than 50 antiques vendors. The popular event takes place on the first Sunday of the month from May through October. Admission is free.
Favorite Fare: Schu’s Grill & Bar, located in downtown St. Joseph, provides views of Lake Michigan and serves up burgers of all types, from olive to caprese; fish entrees; catch of the day specials; perch sandwiches; and more.
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Photo Courtesy of Lake Orion Downtown Development Authority
South Haven
Lowdown: Situated about 38 miles north of Detroit in the northeast corner of Oakland County, the Village of Lake Orion is home to the 490-acre, all-sports Lake Orion. Visitors enjoy strolling the walkable downtown, with its cozy restaurants and gift shops. Within walking distance from downtown are new residential developments such as Mystic Cove, which is located right on the water and offers boat slips and other amenities for water-loving folks. Kim Merritt has lived two blocks from downtown since 2017. “I love the small-town feel here,” she says, noting that spring and summer mean festival time. “Our Downtown Development Authority does a really great job offering events for all ages,” says Merritt, who has watched the village grow over the years, attracting new businesses and fun restaurants. “Now it’s more of a place to be,” she says.
Must Do: Bike, walk, or run along the Paint Creek Trail, which leads from downtown Lake Orion 10 miles south to Rochester. Merritt has often hopped on her bicycle to ride the trail. “It’s awesome,” Merritt says. The Polly Ann Trail, which runs through Orion Township, also welcomes walkers, runners, and cyclists, and wends its way past wildlife and waterways.
Add to the List: Legend has it that Lake Orion is home to a dragon. Every August the region celebrates the mythical beast at the Dragon on the Lake Festival, which includes a parade, arts, crafts, and boat races. dragononthelake.com.
Favorite Fare: The village has a variety of restaurants including Waterside Social, offering patio dining with lake views and a scratch kitchen, and Valentino’s Italian Grill downtown, featuring fresh, delectable Italian dinners. — Carol Hopkins
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Monroe
Lowdown: About 30 minutes south of Detroit, visitors often are surprised to discover the outdoor adventures surrounding Monroe and along Lake Erie. Exciting day trips can focus on history, recreation, and boating or fishing.
Must Do: With lots of professional captains available, charter a fishing adventure on Lake Erie. After all, this region is regarded as the Walleye Capital of the World.
Add to the List: The Erie Marsh Preserve is one of the largest coastal wetlands on Lake Erie open to the public for awesome bird watching. The River Raisin Heritage Trail connects various historical sites and recreational activities. Avalon Beach and William C. Sterling State Park offer Great Lake waterfront fun. Try paddling the scenic 130-mile-long River Raisin waterway that stretches from the Irish Hills to Lake Erie. The River Raisin National Battlefield Park is a historical landmark that explores Michigan’s important connection to the War of 1812.
Favorite Fare: The Clamdiggers Lounge & Pizzeria is an enjoyable hangout with boat docking on the River Raisin. Nearby at the Toledo Beach Marina, the Sandbar Grille overlooks Lake Erie with tasty bar food and live music. The Quarry features American fare with an expansive waterside outdoor deck.
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Port Huron
Lowdown: This historic town reigns as the gateway to Michigan’s Thumb Coast, where Lake Huron empties into the St. Clair River. The Blue Water International Bridge provides access into Ontario. Awesome Great Lakes freighter-watching awaits — you’re so close to the ships!
Must Do: Thomas Edison Parkway (4,700 feet of paved walkway inches from the river) and the Blue Water River Walk are great for freighter-watching. The picturesque Bridge to Bay Trail connects them both and features more than 50 miles of shoreline access for St. Clair County biking and exploring.
Add to the List: Tour the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse, park, and beach; hang out at the sandy Lakeside Beach and nearby Lakeport State Park; or visit the Thomas Edison Depot Museum. There’s regular Amtrak service from Chicago and Kalamazoo to Port Huron. The Wrigley Center features restaurants, five bars, retail, and an arcade all under one roof. The Blue Water Festival July 15-18 is packed with activities and showcases the sailboats that will participate in the amazing 102nd Bayview Mackinac Race.
Favorite Fare: The city’s social district features some 19 establishments for your downtown adventures. The Double Tree Hotel, with its river and bridge views plus its Freighter’s Eatery & Taproom patio, is a great place to hang out if you’re into freighter-watching. Other spots to try include Wings Etc. and Black & Blue Brewery, or Bootleggers Axe Co., downtown on the Black River.
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