Finally, a much needed and well-deserved vacation to Northern Michigan. Having never been to this region of the country before, everyone told me, “If you’re going Up North, you HAVE to go check out Sleeping Bear Dunes.” We did some research and found out that Sleeping Bear Dunes is a 35-mile section of coastline that has been designated a National Lakeshore. Sand Dunes, hiking trails, scenic vistas, historic towns (dating back to the days when the Great lakes were the superhighway of the region) are all part of the park. We decide to take a guided tour to make sure we don’t miss out on anything.
He stopped me in my tracks. My bike ride came to a temporary, but abrupt halt. But there he stood, right in the middle of the Leelanau Trail. It was a deer. I swear that he looked up and smiled. Just before he ran away. I know I smiled at him.
Growing up my grandmother had a 1950’s light pink refrigerator. The model that had the bottom freezer. Now this retro style is cool again, but to me it’s always been fascinating. I think it was more the color of the refrigerator than the structure of it.
Just like that numerous blossoms have bloomed over the last week! Some areas are more dense with flowers than others, but for the most part we are at about 30% and are predicting full bloom to be within the next week (weather dependent). So if you're planning to see nature's display, don't delay and plan your visit!
Keep a close eye out for hidden treasures this week while you're out exploring Traverse City! To Celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week, we've teamed up with over 30 destinations around Michigan for a statewide scavenger hunt!
Water is our most precious resource, and in Michigan, we are lucky to have an abundance of lakes and rivers. Northern Michigan is known for its inland lakes with crystal clear water. Torch Lake, arguably the most famous of Michigan’s inland lakes, is renowned for its brilliant (dare I say, Caribbean) blue color.
Photo: Noah Jurik
A one hour drive out of Traverse City will take you to one of the most breathtaking views of Lake Michigan to be found anywhere!
It's official, cherry blossoms are starting to bloom! If you're wondering if this is a little earlier than usual, the answer is definitely yes! Most years, we don't see the tiny white flowers until mid-May. But just because they're early, it doesn't mean we can't enjoy them. Let's get started on where you can find them and what's coming up in the orchards around the area.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the crown jewel of Michigan. Having received some recent high praise for the miles of scenic sand dunes, clear night skies, and vistas that span as far as the eye can see, we wanted to celebrate all the love one of our favorite regional landmarks is getting. If you love northern Michigan you may find yourself inspired to hike one of the beautiful trails or visit the beach this summer!
Ah, dining in Traverse City. It's a good thing we have so many trails to work off the calories, because we take eating seriously around here, especially outdoor dining. Food + the great outdoors = "chef's kiss." Enjoy the catch of the day with a view of the bay, sip local libations and snack on small plates on a patio on the Traverse Wine Coast, or enjoy a laid-back meal with a local pint -- no matter where you choose to go, you'll find plenty of options to sit outside.
Dynamic Variation:
