MyNorth Vacation! 2022 Summer Guide

Vacation!

2022 EDITION

SUMMER GUIDE

NORTHERN MICHIGAN BENZIE, MANISTEE & CADILLAC ∙ CHARLEVOIX & CHAIN OF LAKES ∙ TRAVERSE CITY ∙ LEELANAU ∙ PETOSKEY & MACKINAC STRAITS

F O T S ˙ E B E H T ˙

H T R O N UP EXPLORE

small towns TASTE

local food & drink DISCOVER

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A SUPPLEMENT TO

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4 award-winning courses

from torch lake to charlevoix

3 Beautiful locations • 72-Holes of Championship golf We are frequently asked, “What is A-Ga-Ming?”. A-Ga-Ming represents many things. To the Native Americans, it is a word meaning “on the shore.” For families across the Midwest and the nation, it is a beautiful vacation destination, complete with lodging, dining, and relaxation. To the golf community, it is a 72-hole golf resort nestled on the shores of Torch Lake and Lake Michigan, in three beautiful Northern Michigan locations. For everyone, it means the perfect destination for group trips, membership & daily-fee-play, dreamlike weddings, celebrations and more!

Opened in 2005 as the third best new course in the country, Sundance exemplifies the extraordinary natural beauty of northwest Michigan with views of both Torch Lake and Lake Michigan. With wide, playable fairways, superbly sculpted greens, vast windswept bunkers, heather-clad mounding and spectacular vistas, Sundance will delight the scratch golfer or a newly fledged beginner.

Sundance continues to be one of the premier golf courses in northern Michigan.

The original A-Ga-Ming 18 holes, renamed Torch in 2005 for the famous lake that the course overlooks, continues to be a very scenic and enjoyable round. The Torch is situated majestically on the ridges offering spectacular views of Torch Lake. The Torch is a challenging shot-makers course that favors accuracy over length.

Water comes into play on 11 of the holes, as do mature stands of woods throughout the course. The Torch is one of the most scenic golf courses in all of northern Michigan.

Overlooking Lake Michigan, Antrim Dells is back to its splendor as one of finest golf experiences in northern Michigan. Former host of The Michigan Amateur, the course is in the best shape of its life! Built

by Hall of Fame architect Jerry Matthews who calls it one of his favorite designs, Antrim Dells now features four sets of tees along with some of the “Sweetest Greens in the North.”

From your first tee shot until your final putt you will enjoy the peace and tranquility of “The North.”

Charlevoix Country Club is a four-star Jerry Matthews design that offers golfers beautifully manicured bent grass fairways and large undulating putting surfaces. Water dominates the landscape, as many holes weave their way across a nice mix of open and tree lined holes with expansive surrounds of heather. There are many birdie and par opportunities to be had, but the last 4 holes are among the most challenging finishing holes in northern Michigan. This course proves to be worth the drive!!

800.678.0122 • a-ga-ming.com

18-Hole Rates from

$59 Antrim Dells & Torch $69 Charlevoix • $79 Sundance HALF OFF JUNIOR RATES • SENIOR RATES TWILIGHT SPECIALS AFTER 3PM • GOLF PACKAGES

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PA I D C O N T E N T

ADVENTURES IN

SAULT

STE. MARIE

BY KIM SCHNEIDER

For a few days away or a major vacay, our neighbor to the north welcomes adventurers of all stripes.

O

pened borders have given michiganders

the chance to cross the bridge to explore favorite destinations, dramatic landscapes and new tours and trails.

These nine ways to vacation in Sault Ste. Marie, Canada will set your heart’s compass to true north, whether you’re heading up for a weekend or crafting a longer trip with family or friends.

RIDING THE RAILS: The Agawa Canyon Train line has run the same route for more than a century through landscape carved more than 1.2 billion years ago. The train winds through thick maple forests and past waterfalls to descend 500 feet to the floor of the Agawa Canyon and is the only way to reach Agawa Canyon Park. Here, a stop allows climbs to stunning overlooks, and the trip itself offers photo ops as it rumbles over trestle bridges and crosses the Goulais River. Narration given through headsets in multiple languages adds another layer with tales of the original Ojibwe settlers, fur traders, explorers and more.

BEACH BOUNT Y: Sandy Pointe des Chenes at the mouth of the St. Marys River is a perfect spot for both sand castle building and freighter watching. On the

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wilder side, Pancake Bay Provincial Park offers up kilometers of golden sand, crystal clear waters, loon calls and the Edmund Fitzgerald Lookout. At Old Woman Bay, you can spend the day hunting for driftwood surrounded by rocky cliffs that resemble an old woman’s face. Families love Batchawana Bay Provincial Park, a warm cove where picnic fare must include apple fritters from the Voyageurs’ Lodge and Cookhouse.

CULINARY TOURING: When Carole Blaquiere leads groups on her Blaq Bear culinary walking tours through downtown Sault Ste. Marie, the food is elevated by storytelling with tales of the city’s fascinating culture and history. A growing international population is reflected in the culinary scene with newcomers like Georgie’s Shawarma. A culinary tour favorite, the Machine Shop collective inside the Canal District is home to a steak house, gelato mill, freshly cooked pizzas in The Boiler Room and OutSpoken Brewing, all cleverly housed inside the renovated former Lake Superior Paper Company complex.

BIKING: The city has positioned itself as an adventure town, with a recent million-dollar investment in mountain bike trails that

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opened this spring. “It’s up with anywhere in the world, really,” says Jack Perrotta-Lewin, the Sault Cycling Club’s fat bike director. “Every day I wake up here it’s like I won the lottery.” The Hiawatha Highlands Trail System offers options for multiple skill levels. Those looking for a more leisurely ride can opt for the paved 22-kilometer John Rowswell Hub Trail that takes in the St. Marys River

and they share their heritage in more subtle ways, sometimes with singing and drumming on a paddle or hiking trip. On the Algoma University campus, take a tour of Shingwauk Hall, established in 1873 as a residential school for First Nations children, and operated as such until the Shingwauk Indian Residential School closed in 1970. The building is one of the oldest landmarks in the Sault Ste. Marie area.

for an outing in watercraft modeled after those used in the Canadian fur trade, offered with history/wildlife tours by the Lake Superior Watershed Conservancy. Or head out onto Lake Superior, easily done from the

shoreline base camp of Forest the Canoe in Goulais River. The company offers a tent and a tiny house rental for an overnight and tours along the red sandstone coastline.

HISTORY: History comes to life at the Ermatinger-Clergue National Historic Site’s exhibits related to the War of 1812 and the fur trade, shared by interpreters in period costume.

DESTINATION HIKING: The hiking along the Lake Superior Coastal Trail is “rugged enough to have beaten me up a time or two,” says ecotour guide Ryan Walker, who founded his company Forest the Canoe with partner Shana Shipperbottom in the area partly for the trail’s dramatic landscapes and geology. Come autumn, he and other area guides steer guests to the Robertson Cliffs within the Algoma Highlands Conservancy, widely considered some of the North’s best hiking to a fall overlook view.

FISHING: Fishing enthusiast Ernest Hemingway wrote that “the best rainbow trout fishing in the world is the rapids of the Canadian Soo.” But here’s the rest of the quote: “and it’s a wild nightmare kind of fishing.” That just means you’ll want a guide like John Giuliani leading you over boulders to the flowing rapids to what he calls the best fly fishing in North America. In a single day, he’s caught Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout and steelhead, something you can’t do anywhere else in Canada.

“It’s phenomenal,” he says, “and it’s right near downtown.”

INDIGENOUS TOURISM: Attend a Powwow like the competition-style Gathering at the Rapids at Algoma University or traditional Batchewana Powwow to experience dancing, sample foods and learn about the culture.

Thrive Tours, co-owned by two Indigenous guides, lead tours to Powwows,

PADDLING: From the Sault College Waterfront Adventure Centre on the St. Marys River, you can get a new perspective on the city with a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard rental. Book with Indigenous-owned Thrive Tours, and you’ll get a similar view with a deeper perspective, or opt

waterfront and connects restaurants and museums. Rentals are available during summer months from Roberta Bondar Marina and Sault Ste. Marie Canal Historic Site.

But the city’s museum claim to fame is the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre — a former airplane hangar devoted to the history of the way bush planes opened exploration of Canada’s more rugged north as well as aerial firefighting. Experience the thrill of flight in a flight adventure simulator, climb aboard vintage aircraft and settle in to the cockpit of a Saunders ST-27 passenger plane.

Visit saulttourism.com for more information on maps, tours, lodging, how to book and more.

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N O R T H E R N M I C H I G2022 A N MYNORTH 'S MAGAZINE

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frankfort

Vacation!

A MyNorth Media Publication

Michael Wnek Cara McDonald

PRESIDENT EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Elizabeth Edwards Carly Simpson Allison Jarrell

SENIOR EDITOR ASSOCIATE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR DIGITAL CONTENT WRITER & SOCIAL MEDIA PROJECT MANAGER

Rachel Soulliere

PROOFREADERS

Elizabeth Aseritis Caroline Dahlquist

REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS

Kandace Chapple

ART DIRECTOR PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Tim Hussey Theresa Burau-Baehr

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR, SPECIAL SECTIONS

DIRECTOR OF SALES SALES ACCOUNT COORDINATOR

CONTENT 5 | TRAVERSE CITY

Catch a sunset, play on Power Island, explore the Village at Grand Traverse Commons, eat outdoors and sip local wine.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Rachel Watson Julie Parker Tabatha VanWingerden Mike Alfaro Ann Gatrell Julie James Meg Lau Kirk Small

MARKETING DIRECTOR MARKETING COORDINATOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Erin Lutke Ashlyn Korienek Nichole Earle Libby Stallman

OFFICE MANAGER

43 | BENZIE, MANISTEE & CADILLAC

Paddle and float in river country, discover Benzie’s dunes, fall in love with lighthouses and taste the craft libations scene.

A Supplement to

71 | PETOSKEY & MACKINAC STRAITS

Take the ferry to Mackinac Island, drive the famous Tunnel of Trees, camp at state parks and linger at laidback tasting rooms in the Petoskey Wine Region.

91 | CHARLEVOIX, CHAIN OF LAKES, GAYLORD & GRAYLING

Plan a weekend on Beaver Island, cruise the Chain of Lakes, wander charming small towns and sip away at wineries, breweries and distilleries.

113 | LEELANAU

Do the Sleeping Bear Dunes, have the best beach day, explore Fishtown, meet sweet small towns and belly up at cideries, wineries, brewpubs and distilleries.

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Visit MyNorth.com/Account to renew your subscription, change your address, or review your account.

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YOUR LOCAL FAVORITE BARBECUE SPOT RAYAN ANASTOR PHOTO

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COVER PHOTO AND THIS PAGE BY DAVE WEIDNER

BE HERE AT SUNSET!

clinch park

Five stellar places to catch the sunset in Grand Traverse County.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

CLINCH PARK & BEACH 111 E. GRANDVIEW PKWY., TRAVERSE CITY

Rent a paddleboard and watch the sunset while floating on the bay, walk the pier or simply sink into one of the turquoise Adirondacks that line the beach here.

DEEPWATER POINT 6263 DEEPWATER POINT RD., WILLIAMSBURG

This lovely natural area with 17 acres on East Grand Traverse Bay feels very off the beaten path. The rustic shoreline is a short walk from the parking area. Your sunset view here is due west, across the bay and over Old Mission Peninsula. If you’re looking for that calming day-is-done feel, this is your spot.

HICKORY HILLS RECREATION AREA 2000 RANDOLPH ST., TRAVERSE CITY

Where there are ski hills, there are great sunsets. That’s the case at Hickory Hills Recreation & Ski Area on the west side of Traverse City, where the view from the slope captures Grand Traverse Bay. Bring the dog and hike the 1.8-mile Hickory Hills Loop Trail to call it an evening.

Explore downtown, grab dinner, take a hike ... find more to do in Traverse City: link.mynorth.com/traversecity

OLD MISSION SCENIC HERITAGE ROUTE TURNOUT M-37, OLD MISSION PENINSULA

A sunset and glass of wine (Old Mission Peninsula boasts 11 fabulous wineries) is always an unforgettable pairing. But to get the most of it, time your drive to be at the M-37 Scenic Turnout on the west side of the road—just before you get to Chateau Grand Traverse—at sundown when celestial colors splash across vineyards, orchards and West Grand Traverse Bay. SUNSET PARK 635 E. FRONT ST. (AT THE BASE OF HOPE STREET), TRAVERSE CITY

This downtown beach is a bit quieter than Clinch Park, but the sunsets are no less lovely. With a big grassy area, picnic tables, grills and playground, you can make an evening of it!

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PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

bryant park

beach town u.s.a TRAVERSE

CITY

West Grand Traverse Bay has a plethora of sand, sun and beaches. Bring the kids or enjoy a book along the shoreline that makes Traverse City special.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

CLINCH PARK BEACH

This is the most popular TC beach, with 1,500 feet of sandy frontage and a splash pad (open Memorial Day through Labor Day) for the kids. You can reach Clinch Park Beach through the pedestrian tunnel under Division at Cass Street. Flush toilets, changing rooms and a snack bar, plus SUP and kayak rentals are all available.

VOLLEYBALL BEACH

It’s not summer until you see the balls volleying at the beach just west of Union Street at West End Park. There are six courts, with two more slated in the near future. Watch league play or carve out a night of fun with friends.

WEST END BEACH

Find restrooms and a picnic shelter at the foot of Division Street. Dogs are allowed on the far west end of the beach (on leash and with love).

Parking is harder to come by here, so go early.

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SUNSET PARK BEACH

This lesser-known stretch of sand at the foot of Hope Street is flanked by the Hagerty Center and Maritime Academy.

BRYANT PARK

A popular haven at the base of Old Mission Peninsula with a playground, picnic tables and restrooms. Bring hot dogs and use the BBQ grills with the fam.

EAST BAY PARK

Set in a quiet neighborhood near Northwestern Michigan College, this park offers restrooms, shade trees, a picnic shelter and shallow water, making it ideal for young families.

Go online for more beach recommendations: link.mynorth.com/tcbeaches

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PHOTO BY SHEA HADDAD

west end beach

PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

volleyball beach

PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER

clinch park

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PHOTO BY LYDIA MEJIA

PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER

PHOTO BY MORGAN TAYLOR

The U.S. Navy Blue Angels air shows are July 2-3.

This video takes you on an aircraft—and shows just how close the planes get: link.mynorth.com/blueangels

THINGS TO DO AT THE Festival advice, straight from the top and ripe for the picking!

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

National Cherry Festival

The National Cherry Festival (July 2–9, 2022) offers more than 150 events and activities—most of which are free for all! We sat down with Kat Paye, the executive director, and asked for her top five fest favorites: 1. Community Parade/Thursday Night Parade. “This new event is a merger of the Heritage Parade and the Junior Royale Parade. It’s all the favorite parade aspects into one.” Watch for a variety of local entries and historical and traditional floats.

2. Pet Show. “This is, of course, family-friendly and SUPER pet friendly!” The event is on July 5, from 9 a.m. to noon, and is open to pets and kids 3 to 12 years of age. Held at F&M Park. Register online for one or more categories, from most unusual pet to best-dressed ensemble.

3. Sand Sculpture Contest. “One of my favorite events and where I made lifelong friends as a middle school student,” Kat says. Held July 3 at 6 p.m. at Sunset Park Beach.

4. Beer Tent. “The best view for a happy hour cocktail in town on the water!” The Beer Tent is located at Open Space Park. Festival-goers must be 21 to enter the tent and have a commemorative pin.

5. Queen’s Coronation. “A traditional event that has been around since our queen program started in the early 1920s.” This event is on July 8 at 5:30 p.m. at The Hagerty Center. Meet the four candidates competing to be the new, 2022/2023 National Cherry Queen. The crowning of the National Cherry Queen will be announced at 7:45 p.m. Talk about a night to remember!

BONUS: Paye couldn’t resist adding a sixth item: 6. Porch Parade. “The Porch Parade is back in 2022!” During National Cherry Festival Week, members of the community celebrate by decorating their porches (and yards, sidewalks and windows!). The theme of the porch parade is—you guessed it—cherries. Find a map online and take a walk around town to see the fun décor.

Visit cherryfestival.org for the full line-up of events, including everything from cherry pit spitting to live performances (like Sheryl Crow and Jim Gaffigan!) on the Bayside Stage.

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RIVERSIDE C A N O E

T R I P S

Kayaks |Tubes |Canoes Rafts |Boats |SUPs

231-325-5622

www.canoemichigan.com

5042 N. Scenic Hwy Honor, MI 49640

11885 Jewell Road Thompsonville, MI

Farm Store Fun Family Tours Alpaca Kisses Friday - Sunday 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

CottonCreekFarms.com

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You’re not kayaking unless you’re CLEAR WATER Kayaking! ™

TM

Clear Bottom Kayak Tours & Rentals Traverse City l Elk Rapids l Torch Lake l Leelanau l Benzie Come spend the day with Clear Water Kayaks ! www.clearwaterkayakstc.com • 231-632-6583 TM

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west bay

PLAY ON THE BAY You came for many things, but one thing stands above all else: The water! Here’s your itinerary.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

SWIM

With six in-town beaches, you can’t help but find the perfect one. Start by trying Clinch Park near downtown TC (access it through the pedestrian tunnel at Cass & Division). There are SUP and kayak rentals, a snack bar and dreamy turquoise blue Adirondack chairs overlooking the marina. The little ones can play at the splash pad; the teens can catch a movie at the Bijou by the Bay theater.

SAIL

Traverse Tall Ship Co. offers excursions on the Tall Ship Manitou, a replica of an 1800s cargo schooner, similar to those that sailed the Great Lakes and Atlantic Ocean. Try a brunch cruise (includes a bloody mary, mimosa or screwdriver) or a dinner cruise (includes dinner at Harrington’s By The Bay). tallshipsailing.com 16

SOAR

Ever see the bright plumes of parasails over the bay? This year could be your year to try it! Grand Traverse Parasail and Traverse Bay Parasail offer packages that include 60- to 90-minute boat rides and 10 to 15 minutes of soaring. gtparasail.com; tbparasail.com

PADDLE

Paddle the bay up the mouth of the Boardman River for an add-on adventure. Rent SUPs or kayaks at Clinch Park or at a number of local shops (see the list on the following page).

BOAT

Rent or trailer your own boat to Duncan L. Clinch Marina or Elmwood Township Marina. Cruise out to Power Island—a tiny, uninhabited island in the bay with a hiking trail and a small herd of resident whitetail deer. Or motor up to Apache Trout Grill, West End Tavern or Boathouse Restaurant for a bite.

Where to go snorkeling near Traverse City: link.mynorth.com/snorkeltc

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ta m

PHOTOS BY DAVE WEIDNER

Where to Rent Pontoons, Kayaks & More…

tall ship manitou

TC WATERSPORTS

watersportstc.com Located in Traverse City on the bay, but will deliver a boat or jet ski to most surrounding lakes. They offer pontoons, jet skis, paddleboards, kayaks and—yes—water trampolines!

BLUE SKY BOAT RENTALS

bluesky-tvc.com Rent jet skis, pontoons, kayaks, paddleboards and trampolines. With three different pontoon sizes, you can rent a 10-, 11- or 12-person boat to cruise the bay. Available locations include Grand Traverse Resort & Spa, Beach Condominiums and Cherry Tree Inn & Suites.

BREAK’N WAVES

breaknwaves.com This company also offers everything for the water, including sailboats and even paddleboats. Their 14-foot jet boats carry up to four passengers, and their 19-foot boat up to eight.

PADDLE TC

paddletc.com Located at Clinch Park, this is an easy choice for a no-motor outing on the bay. Choose from paddleboards and kayaks.

Paddle TC will also deliver within a 30-minute radius of Traverse City. They also rent the elusive “water carpet”— a chance to “walk on water.” And, for another fun twist, check their offerings for paddleboard yoga classes.

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Downtown Traverse City Nine elegant guest rooms with period furnishings & private baths Two-bedroom carriage house suites Located mid-way between the wineries of Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas Walk to beaches, restaurants and shopping 230 Wellington Street

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sip

Find a spot for a lunch pit stop during your beer or wine tour: link.mynorth.com/dining

like a local

Explore the North’s buzzing craft beverage scene.

BY CARLY SIMPSON

1 2 LADS WINERY Modern tasting room (think steel, concrete, glass) with killer views of East Grand Traverse Bay.

4 BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARDS The west-facing patio with a vineyard vista is downright magical during golden hour.

Explore the onsite Nature Trail.

1 CHATEAU CHANTAL Old World–inspired winery and B&B with a terrace and patio (see both East and West bays!). Treat yourself to a wine dinner.

4 BRYS ESTATE VINEYARD & WINERY Gorgeous upper deck (with bay views), lawn bar and seasonal Secret Garden with thousands of lavender plants and a gift shop.

1 CHATEAU GRAND TRAVERSE Old Mission Peninsula’s first winery. A fabulous patio set alongside the vineyard and an inn for weekend getaways.

5 HAWTHORNE VINEYARDS Open seasonally, this intimate tasting room has a patio peeking at West Bay and a beautiful stone fireplace.

2 BLACK STAR FARMS A circular bar made of wine barrels steals the show. Ask about the pear-in-the-bottle brandy.

5 MARI VINEYARDS Stunning Italian-inspired winery with stone arches, wine caves, outdoor seating, a fireplace and East Bay panorama.

3 BONOBO WINERY Sleek but welcoming with a double-sided fireplace and plenty of armchairs. Plus, a massive deck overlooking West Grand Traverse Bay (find the bonobo mural for a cool photo).

3 PENINSULA CELLARS Historic one-room schoolhouse (complete with a chalkboard and Honor Roll wine club) turned one-of-a-kind tasting room.

4 TABONE VINEYARDS Bright and airy interior, but the vineyardsurrounded outdoor seating really shines.

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6 LEFT FOOT CHARLEY Cool, warehouse-esque tasting room at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons with an outdoor patio and a separate, cozy Barrel Room.

6 RARE BIRD BREWPUB Half a dozen Rare Bird brews accompanied by Michigan and international bevies on 35 taps.

Locally sourced food menu, trivia, live music, community parties.

6 THE WORKSHOP BREWING COMPANY Aficionados love the barrel-aged beers and seasonal sours. Live music hotspot, lots of indoor and outdoor seating. Second location opening in Kingsley.

6 MAMMOTH DISTILLING Warm and inviting industrial hangout in TC’s trendy Warehouse District. Snag a wooly seat (you’ll know it when you see it).

6 NORTH PEAK BREWING COMPANY The historic brick building is a head-turner with a roomy interior and patio seating with live music.

7 CHERRY REPUBLIC The downtown shop famous for all things cherry also has a tasting bar with cherry wines for adults and cherry sodas for kids.

6 ACOUSTIC TAP ROOM An artsy spot serving up mead, cider and cyser with live music and board games in downtown’s west end.

7 MACKINAW BREWING COMPANY Downtown’s first brewpub with a classic food menu and seasonal beers.

6 EARTHEN ALES Innovative brews served under the water tower at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Inquire about the beer CSA.

7 GRAND TRAVERSE DISTILLERY Book a tour at the production facility located outside of downtown or hit up Front Street’s tasting room.

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14 FARM CLUB A brewery/restaurant/market/ farm focused on subtle, loweralcohol beers. Lots of seating indoor and out, family friendly.

12 JOLLY PUMPKIN A rustic and deliciously cozy restaurant/ brewery/distillery with a great food menu (the curry potato chips will blow your mind).

8 ROVE ESTATE VINEYARD & WINERY Relaxed winery with indoor and outdoor seating perched at the highest point on the Leelanau Peninsula (and just minutes from downtown TC).

13 STONE HOUND BREWING CO. Nearby in Williamsburg (bike to it on the TART) with a sweet Petoskey stone bar, rotating beers and onsite vegan food counter Rad.ish.

9 BRENGMAN BROTHERS White farmhouse-style tasting room with a generous patio located 10 minutes outside of downtown.

15 NOMAD CIDERY A roadside farm market and tasting room in Williamsburg with a variety of ciders, wines and U-Pick strawberries.

10 BREWERY TERRA FIRMA Located on 10 acres outside of downtown on a MAEAP certified farm; known for environmental stewardship.

11 FRESH COAST BEER WORKS A tasting room and a homebrew shop— they’ll give you recipes!

Live music, patio with food truck and outside food welcome.

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11 TRAVERSE CITY WHISKEY CO. The downtown stillhouse pours both signature whiskeys and limited-edition releases only found here. Shipping container patio gets an A+. Dogs allowed inside and out.

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Dog friendly Must be leashed, outdoor areas only unless noted.

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11 RIGHT BRAIN BREWERY Constantly changing tap list with eclectic brews (ingredients have included asparagus and cherry pie). Indoor and outdoor seating.

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11 MIDDLECOAST BREWING COMPANY Inside State Street Market where you can grab a bite at neighboring stalls to enjoy inside or out.

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11 SILVER SPRUCE BREWING Specializing in lagers; rustic and cozy interior with a patio and firepit outdoors.

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11 THE FILLING STATION MICROBREWERY A revitalized train station just off the TART Trail with lots of outdoor seating and delish wood-fired pizzas.

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paddle

PICK YOUR

The Boardman River flows 28 miles from Kalkaska to Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse City, moving from wild to tame along the way. These outfitters will help you find your best way to experience it.

does not advise tubes for ages 3 and under due to scattered pockets of deep water and swifter currents.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

paddletc.com For an easier paddle, get on the Boardman River closer to Traverse City, where the current is downright serene. Rent kayaks or SUPs from Paddle TC at Clinch Park Marina. Paddle east on Grand Traverse Bay, before hooking a right into the mouth of the Boardman. You can paddle this calm stretch tucked in behind downtown TC, before turning and floating back to the bay.

RANCH RUDOLF, TRAVERSE CITY

ranchrudolf.com Owner Melody Hamill helps more than 1,300 people enjoy the Boardman River every year, be it by inner tube or canoe. “We recommend floating on inner tubes for first timers,” she says. “Navigating the Boardman by canoe can be challenging, but in the tubes, the current just takes you down the river.”

There’s a catch: The river is spring-fed, making the average water temp around 60 degrees all summer long—refreshing on a hot day, but chilly for some.

Hamill says that by about age 7, most kids are big enough to ride in their own youth-sized tube, and 4 to 6 year olds can sit on a parent’s lap, but she

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For more experienced paddlers, Hamill says canoeing is a great option, but notes, “there is a tremendous amount of steering and navigation required.”

PADDLE TC, TRAVERSE CITY

Paddle TC also offers outings including A Hull of a Ride Tour, where you paddle the Boardman from Hull Park to Clinch Park before pedaling back on a bike rental, all included in the package.

THE RIVER OUTFITTERS, TRAVERSE CITY

therivertc.com For the hardcore, consider the Boardman River Experience offered by The River Outfitters. This tour runs about 90 minutes and takes you through some rapids from Jack’s Landing to Medalie Park. (Expect to get wet!)

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PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER

PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER

Discover more kayak and canoe trips for all ages: link.mynorth.com/paddle

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Find more trails in Traverse City and across the North: link.mynorth.com/hike

THE TRAILS OF TRAVERSE From single-track and pavement to lakeshore and deep forest, there’s a trail type for everyone—here are some favorite picks.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

TART TRAIL The 10.5-mile TART (Traverse Area Recreation Trail) is a paved path that curves along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay—from M-72/Bates Road in Acme Township to its western end point at Carter Road in Traverse City, where it links with the Leelanau Trail mentioned below.

TART builds and maintains many trails, but the in-town 8-foot-wide paved TART Trail is the original. It runs next to shops that can set you up with bike rentals: Brick Wheels and McLain Cycle & Fitness, both on Eighth Street in Traverse City, as well as Einstein Cycles out near Acme.

Another popular TART choice is the 17-mile Leelanau Trail that takes you from TC to Suttons Bay (also paved). This lazy, lovely ride through cherry and apple orchards is a perfect day: Bike out to Suttons Bay for lunch, shop a little, then head back. traversetrails.org

PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER

VASA Located on state forest land, the Vasa Pathway features a series of loops (3K, 5K, 10K, 25K) that offer users a variety of trails from easy to difficult. Runners, hikers, mountain bikers and walkers (with their pups!) can be found on the Vasa Pathway. Park at the Bartlett Road trailhead to access all of the loops on foot or by bike; park at the Supply Road trailhead for the dedicated mountain bike single track trail. traversetrails.org CONSERVANCY PRESERVES The Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy has countless trails and nature preserves to explore in the county. Executive Director Glen Chown’s rec for a family-friendly trail? Timbers Recreation Area in Long Lake Township about 10 minutes from TC. Says Chown: “This 250-acre property features a universally accessible trail that goes down to Long Lake and also Fern Lake, which is entirely within the boundaries of this stunning natural area. Bring a picnic!”

Chown adds that many of their trails are pet-friendly but that dogs must be on a leash. gtrlc.org

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GRAND TRAVERSE COMMONS

what to see & do An insider’s guide for first-time visitors.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

Formerly the Traverse City State Hospital, The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is today home to dozens of beautifully renovated historic buildings that sit on 63 acres just outside of downtown.

The Village includes boutiques, restaurants, a bakery, brewery, winery and coffee shops—along with hundreds of acres of parkland laced with trails.

The centerpiece is the 388,000-square-foot Kirkbride Building built in 1885 (named Building 50 by the state).

People visiting for the first time should give themselves at least a couple of hours to explore, says Raymond Minervini II, a partner in The Minervini Group, LLC, the master developers of The Village.

“The first things that people see when they arrive are the red, white and gold spires on the rooftop of the main Kirkbride Building, which tower some hundred feet above the ground,” he says. “In front of the building is the diverse arboretum and 15-acre great lawn. Together, the landscaping and architecture were an intentional part of the ninteenth-century patient treatment; the principle that ‘beauty is therapy.’”

Learn more about the history and redevelopment of the Commons: link.mynorth.com/commons

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Minervini encourages guests to revel in that same beauty. Here’s his must-see list: • Visit the Mercato in the Kirkbride Building, where more than a dozen local and quirky businesses are located selling everything from clothing and art to antiques.

• Head to “B50 – The Village Store” to sign up for a paid guided historic tour or free self-guided tour. Go on the new “Asylum Flashlight Tour” and experience a night at the Northern Michigan Asylum. Stories from the past are told in the dim glow of flashlights. The 90-minute tour ends with a walk through the 1885 steam tunnels.

• Hike the almost six miles of diverse upland and lowland trails on the property. Find the Hippie Tree, which is decorated with wild colors and thought to be a place people came to meditate and then paint their visions on the tree.

• On the south end of the Commons is Historic Barns Park, which was the center of the farming operation for the State Hospital. Here, you’ll find the Botanic Garden, a year-round sanctuary of environmental preservation, recreation and education.

• After all of that walking, a glass of wine, cider or beer is a perfect ending to your visit. (Try the Cinnamon Girl Cider at Left Foot Charley!)

Learn more at thevillagetc.com.

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PHOTOS BY DAVE WEIDNER

left foot charley

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The Former Traverse City State Hospital

ART, JEWELRY, AND UNIQUE GIFTS Located in the the Village at the Grand Traverse Commons

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Food&Drink Newsletter Dig into Northern Michigan with us and find out where to eat, drink, and taste!

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Book your unique tasting experience today.

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PHOTO BY GAIL SNABLE

play

Spend a day (or a night!) at this boaters’ haven.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

ON POWER ISLAND Power Island—the largest island in Grand Traverse Bay—has become an unofficial “boater’s park,” according to Fred Tank, the island’s park ranger and caretaker. “There’s no public ferry, so you need your own boat to get here,” he says. “And there’s a lot of great anchorage. People come out and stay on their boats all day enjoying the water.”

With more than three miles of shoreline, the island often hosts anywhere from 100 to 140 boats, kayaks and SUPs on warm summer days, Tank says. The 200-acre island, on the flipside, remains relatively quiet.

“There are two things here,” he says. “A wilderness preserve and a boater’s park. The island—coming to land and seeing the trails—remains a bit of a secret, ironically! But, really, people just don’t think to bring the gear to go hiking when they go out on their boats. Remember to bring your hiking boots!”

Once on the island, explorers can climb “Mount Ford,” a small hill named after Henry Ford, who once owned the island, or follow a hiking path around the perimeter of the island. You might even catch a glimpse of the locals: a small herd of white-tailed deer that live on the island. You can also reserve campsites online; leashed pets are allowed and there’s a fresh water source at the island’s picnic area.

Tank says he enjoys the quieter hours during the week; summer weekends mean a livelier scene with boats and sound systems. Popular launch points for boaters are Bowers Harbor boat launch (3 miles away) and Clinch Park Marina (6.5 miles away).

9 more islands that are begging to be explored: link.mynorth.com/islandgetaways

Tank's advice for boaters who want to avoid the crowds is to dock on the west or north sides of the island.

“It’s less sheltered on those sides, but it’s much more peaceful like the nature preserve it’s meant to be,” he says with a laugh.

Find more information at gtcountymi.gov/860/parks.

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dine al fresco

Where to grab a seat and a bite outdoors in Traverse City.

BY RACHEL SOULLIERE AND CARLY SIMPSON

DOWNTOWN TRAVERSE CITY 7 MONKS TAPROOM 128 S. UNION ST. | 231.421.8410

Incredible burgers, fish tacos and an extensive beer list. Seasonal sidewalk patio.

AMICAL 229 E. FRONT ST. | 231.941.8888

Friendly French bistro with a bay view, fireplace and street patio.

ARTISAN 615 E. FRONT ST. | 231.421.2150

Casual fine dining with waterfront views, a patio and a Great Lakes-inspired menu.

BENEDICT

ESPRESSO BAY

237 LAKE AVE. | 231.421.1000

202 E. FRONT ST. | 231.715.1856

Seasonal breakfast and lunch options with a fab patio.

Hand-roasted coffee, specialty tea, smoothies and gelato.

BLUE TRACTOR BARBEQUE

FIREFLY

423 S. UNION ST. | 231.922.9515

310 CASS ST. | 231.932.1310

An Old Town favorite with a patio. Also check out The Shed beer garden and food truck.

A dazzling small-plate menu, sushi, steaks and burgs at a sophisticated hotspot on the river.

BRADY’S BAR

FOLGARELLI’S MARKET & WINE SHOP

401 S. UNION ST. | 231.946.8153

424 W. FRONT ST. | 231.941.7651

Neighborhood tavern known for its happy hour, wings and pizza offerings.

Deli sandwiches, entrées, home-baked goods, wine and fresh-roasted coffee to go. Some patio seating.

BREW BAHIA

108 E. FRONT ST. | 231.946.2739

127 S. UNION ST. | 231.421.3669

Spanish-Latin fusion tapas. A street-side garage door opens up for an indoor-outdoor experience.

BARRIO 305 W. FRONT ST. | 231.421.1855

Signature and build-your-own tacos; tequila and whiskey.

An espresso lounge and café that also happens to offer microbrews and spirits.

601 RANDOLPH ST. | 231.922.8022

Artisan breads, sandwiches, salads, soups and an espresso bar. Several outdoor tables.

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619 RANDOLPH ST. | 231.944.1228

Superb hot sandwiches and espresso drinks.

COUSIN JENNY’S CORNISH PASTIES

GRAND TRAVERSE PIE CO.

129 S. UNION ST. | 231.941.7821

525 W. FRONT ST. | 231.922.7437

Homemade pasties, soup and sandwiches at a British-themed café with sidewalk seats.

Exceptional cream and fruit pies, coffee, baked goods, pot pies and quiche. Covered sidewalk patio.

CREPES & CO. 329 E. STATE ST. | 231.950.9221

BAY BREAD COMPANY

FRENCHIES FAMOUS

Sweet and savory crepes served up inside State Street Market (patio seating out front).

GREEN HOUSE CAFE 115 E. FRONT ST. | 231.929.7687

A long list of fresh sandwiches, inventive soups and salads. Street-side patio.

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morsels

little fleet HEXENBELLE

MILK & HONEY

PANGEA’S PIZZA

144 HALL ST., STE. 107 | 231.486.6128

240 E. FRONT ST. | 231.944.1036

135 E. FRONT ST. | 231.946.9800

Global comfort foods, baked goods and espresso. Inside Warehouse MKT with additional patio seating.

Famous for its homemade ice cream, this café also has an awesome deli and coffee bar.

Craft pies, creative toppings. Large rooftop deck and bar seats 130-plus, overlooking Front Street and the bay.

H&L SOCIAL AT HOTEL INDIGO

MILLIE AND PEPPER CRÊPERIE & GENERAL STORE

PARK STREET CAFE

263 W. GRANDVIEW PKWY. | 231.932.0500

120 S. UNION ST. | 231.421.9499

113 PARK ST. | 231.421.1747

Rooftop deck overlooking Grand Traverse Bay with bar and full food menu. Open to hotel guests and public.

Crêpes, smoothies, specialty teas and espresso. A small handful of sidewalk tables.

Wide variety of sandwiches and to go options with a sidewalk patio.

MINERVAS

THE PARLOR

300 E. STATE ST. | 231.946.5093

205 LAKE AVE. | 231.753.3131

In the historic Park Place Hotel with a patio.

Italian-American menu.

Reminiscent of the prohibition era. Features craft cocktails and artisan tapas-style food.

MORSELS

PETOSKEY PRETZEL CO.

321 E. FRONT ST. | 231.421.1353

102 S. UNION ST. | 231.252.2414

Sip coffee and munch on bite-sized baked goods while looking out over West Bay.

Sweet and savory pretzels with more than a dozen dipping sauces.

NORTH PEAK BREWING CO.

RARE BIRD BREWPUB

400 W. FRONT ST. | 231.941.7325

229 LAKE AVE. | 231.943.2053

Wood-fired pizzas, seafood, sandwiches, craft beer. Large outdoor patio often has live music.

The likes of pork belly sliders, oysters on the half shell and great burgers served up alongside great beer.

J&S HAMBURG DOWNTOWN 302 W. FRONT ST. | 231.947.5500

A family-friendly, retro diner that’s been flipping fresh burgers since 1938.

LIL BO 540 W. FRONT ST. | 231.421.3100

Burgers, baskets, po’ boys and a late-night menu. Classic neighborhood bar with small outdoor patio.

LITTLE FLEET PHOTOS BY DAVE WEIDNER

448 E. FRONT ST. | 231.943.1116

Outdoor lot with food trucks and an indoor bar.

PAESANO’S PIZZA MAMA LU’S TACO SHOP 149 E. FRONT ST. | 231.943.2793

Fresh tortillas with a mix of traditional and modern ingredients at this hip taqueria with a sidewalk patio.

447 E. FRONT ST. | 231.941.5740

It’s the cheesy Italian favorite with a gourmet twist. Small riverside deck out back.

TAPROOT CIDER HOUSE 300 E. FRONT ST. | 231.943.2500

Brick oven pizza, fresh salads, inventive entrees, large selection of local beverages, sidewalk patio.

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YOU’RE INVITED

The viewers of Good Morning America chose it as the “Most Beautiful Place in America”.

National Geographic named its beach one of the “21 Best Beaches in the World”.

It’s the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Other communities claim to be close to it but aren’t.

We don’t make that claim. It surrounds us.

So save the driving and gas...vacation here and stay here.

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THE GOOD BOWL

MCGEE’S 72

328 E. FRONT ST. | 231.252.2662

4341 M-72, WILLIAMSBURG | 231.421.8800

1333 YELLOW DR. | 231.943.1453

Vietnamese eatery serving pho, rice bowls, dumplings and more.

Gourmet burgers, fries, pizza and other sophisticated bar food. Covered patio.

THE TOWNE PLAZA

RAD.ISH STREET FOOD

Authentic Mexican fare to go at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Picnic tables on the patio and additional seating at The Common’s piazza.

203 CASS ST. | 231.929.0900

3593 BUNKER HILL RD., WILLIAMSBURG

Eclectic American cuisine, extensive outdoor seating and a casual atmosphere.

Vegan Mexican and bar fusion food served inside Stone Hound Brewing Co. Outdoor patio.

THIRSTY FISH SPORTS GRILLE

RED MESA GRILL

221 E. STATE ST. | 231.252.4157

1544 US-31 | 231.938.2773

A sports bar and neighborhood hangout with a large outdoor patio and live music.

Colorful spot with a fireplace, flights of tequila and Latin American cuisine.

WORKSHOP BREWING COMPANY

REFLECT BISTRO AT CAMBRIA SUITES

221 GARLAND ST. | 231.421.8977

255 MUNSON AVE. | 231.778.9000

Craft beer and good eats from Archie’s food truck on-site.

Eclectic food and drinks at all times of the day.

SOUTH SIDE & EIGHTH STREET BOONE’S LONG LAKE INN

SMOKE & PORTER PUBLIC HOUSE

7208 SECOR RD. | 231.946.3991

ZEST PLANT-BASED KITCHEN 439 E. FRONT ST. | 231.421.3141

Avocado toast, smoothies, acai bowls and more.

OLD MISSION PENINSULA BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT 14039 PENINSULA DR. | 231.223.4030

Casually elegant with great steaks, seafood, large local wine selection, beautiful deck, bay view.

1752 US-31 | 231.642.5020

American smoke-house where farm-to-table and whole beast butchery meets the fire pits.

SPANGLISH

S2S SUGAR 2 SALT 1371 GRAY DR. | 231.492.4616

Locally sourced and seasonally driven breakfast items and pastries.

WEST END TAVERN 12719 S. WEST BAY SHORE DR. | 231.943.2922

Craft cocktails and elevated pub fare served up beside West Bay. Large deck with a bar.

Steaks, prime rib, seafood and a very big deck.

COMMON GOOD BAKERY 537 W. FOURTEENTH ST. | 231.933.8002

WEST SIDE & GRAND TRAVERSE COMMONS APACHE TROUT GRILL

Pastries, bread, croissants, breakfasts, soups, sandwiches. A few sidewalk tables.

13671 S. WEST BAY SHORE DR. | 231.947.7079

Rough-hewn eatery affords a great bay view along with ribs, steak, pasta and salad.

FARM CLUB

MULLIGAN’S PUB & GRILL 2430 W. CROWN DR. | 231.932.2166

Stuffed burgers and flatbread pizzas. Located at the Crown Golf Club.

10051 LAKE LEELANAU DR. | 231.252.3079

JOLLY PUMPKIN 13512 PENINSULA DR. | 231.223.4333

Wood-fired steaks, fresh fish and artisan pizzas along with fresh ales.

A farm, market, restaurant and brewery with a large, family-friendly lawn.

HARRINGTON’S BY THE BAY

OAKWOOD PROPER BURGERS 1108 E. EIGHTH ST. | 231.253.1513

Classic American burgers, but elevated.

Hand-cut fries and hand-spun milkshakes.

13890 S. WEST BAY SHORE DR. | 231.421.9393

MISSION TABLE 13512 PENINSULA DR. | 231.223.4222

Farm-to-table restaurant serving seasonal, locally sourced fare and craft cocktails.

Seafood, steaks, burgers, sandwiches—with a bay view.

JACOB’S FARM

ROBBY’S MEXICAN & SPANISH CUISINE 1796 S. GARFIELD AVE. | 231.252.3700

Traditional Mexican food, large drink menu and a beautiful covered patio with a waterfall.

7100 M-72 | 231.632.6293

PENINSULA GRILL 14091 CENTER RD. | 231.223.7200

Roadhouse with cozy fireplace, patio, wings, burgers and regional fare.

A 40-acre farm with a kitchen, bar and lots of activities.

PEPENERO 700 COTTAGEVIEW DR., STE. 100 | 231.929.1960

EAST SIDE & ACME/WILLIAMSBURG DON’S DRIVE-IN

From-scratch southern Italian cuisine with a charming patio.

THE FILLING STATION MICROBREWERY 642 RAILROAD PL. | 231.946.8168

Thin-crusted wood-fired pizzas and flavorful house brews in a renovated train depot with a large patio.

2030 US-31 N. | 231.938.1860

A ’50s-style diner and drive-in with booths, picnic tables, burgers, shakes, nostalgic jukebox.

HOPSCOTCH BRICK OVEN & TAPROOM

SLABTOWN BURGERS 826 W. FRONT ST. | 231.932.1760

Some of the best darn burgers and fries in Traverse City.

Must-try restaurants, insider menu recommendations and seasonal recipes: link.mynorth.com/dining

2032 US-31 | 231.252.4718

Brick oven pizzas, small plates, extensive whiskey list and a large outdoor area with games and fire pits.

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Urban BBQ Restaruant & Catering Outdoor Seating Craft Beer Full Bar Wine list 1752 US-31 EAST BAY TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN

smokeandporter.com • 231-642-5020

JEWELRY

13031 Fisherman Cove Traverse City, MI 49684 231-929-9175

WHERE A MEMORY MATTERS Our creative designs come from Michigan’s natural beauty and its inspirational shorelines. The personable service at Korner Gem will make your trip a memorable one. Let us change your beach rock into a wearable and memorable piece of art. kornergem.com

GROCERY

THE LOCAL CHOICE We carry a wide variety of local items grown and made in Northern Michigan.

Our free online shopping service Tom’s Xpress provides free curbside pickup with no West Bay • East Bay • 14th St. fees. Added fee for delivery with Doordash Interlochen • Northport and Stocked-Up. toms-foodmarkets.com 877-438-2410

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INTERLOCHEN ARTS FESTIVAL

lights up the stage PHOTO BY CARLY PASZEK

PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

kresge auditoirum

Tucked in the woods just 15 minutes from Traverse City, the quiet campus at Interlochen Center for the Arts comes alive each summer with a beloved concert series.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

A couple of years off (due to the pandemic) has only made this summer’s lineup at the Interlochen Arts Festival bigger and better than ever. Look for musicians including Darius Rucker, Boz Scaggs, Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers, Jeremy Camp, Brothers Osborne, Bonnie Raitt, Air Supply and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

“The 2022 Interlochen Arts Festival will be especially joyous as we welcome back friends from near and far,” says Interlochen Center for the Arts President Trey Devey.

Concertgoers enjoy performances in the open-air Kresge Auditorium with the sun setting in the distance over beautiful Green Lake. And, if you can’t score tickets, consider docking your boat out in the lake and listening from afar—a favorite pastime of locals.

A much-anticipated Northern Michigan tradition, the Interlochen Arts Festival has brought top-tier performers to Interlochen’s wooded campus since 1964. In recent years, the festival has attracted audiences of more than 130,000 patrons annually, making it one of the largest arts festivals in Northern Michigan.

Find live music events, wine dinners, festivals and more at: MyNorthTickets.com

“Our summer concert lineup encompasses a wide range of genres and musical styles,” says Katharine Laidlaw, vice president of strategic communications and engagement. “There is literally a show for everyone who loves live music.” interlochen.org 2022 MYNORTH

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TC IS FOR FAMILIES Traverse City is a mecca for family fun—here’s just a sample of the good times waiting for kids and kids at heart.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE

PIT SPITTERS The Traverse City Pit Spitters is a collegiate summer baseball team playing in the Northwoods League—and an ode to America’s traditional pastime. Check out their games all summer long and watch for fun theme nights. Their mascot, Monty, the ultimate “pit spitter,” is a goofy blue monster with a long nose built for spitting TC’s famous cherries.

Expect prizes, music, crowd challenges, dancing between innings and Friday night fireworks.

Located near Chums Corners, just south of TC. Oh, and did we mention hot dogs? There are always hot dogs! northwoodsleague.com/traverse-city-pit-spitters DISCOVERY CENTER & PIER The mission of this nonprofit is to connect people of all ages, needs and abilities to the Great Lakes through recreation, education, science, history and stewardship. That translates to boat sails, tours and programs through many different water-centric partners.

Find more family-friendly activities for your Up North vacation at: link.mynorth.com/kids

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DISCOVERY GALLERY AT THE DENNOS MUSEUM CENTER Rainy days were made for the Discovery Gallery at Dennos Museum. Sure, the kids won’t think much of a museum—until you take them into this kid-friendly, mom-and-dad-loving exhibit. There are all kinds of interactive displays that play with light, sound and imagery. This is hands-on art and science at its best. In the gallery, kids (and adults) can create images of themselves on a huge video screen, make music with the Sound Wall and defy gravity at the Anti-Gravity Mirror. Don’t forget to give the kids a turn—it’s that fun! dennosmuseum.org

PHOTO BY LYDIA MEJIA

One of the best kid-focused partners at the Discovery Center is the Great Lakes Children’s Museum, located just across the road—a perfect place for the elementary-school set to learn to love and appreciate water. This hands-on museum lets kids sail pretend ships, weather the seas with a periscope and learn water and life cycles. discoverygreatlakes.org; greatlakeskids.org

MYNORTH.COM

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BENZIE MANISTEE & CADILLAC ARCADIA ∙ BEAR LAKE ∙ BENZONIA ∙ BEULAH ∙ CADILLAC ∙ ELBERTA ∙ FRANKFORT ∙ HONOR LAKE ANN ∙ LUDINGTON ∙ MANISTEE ∙ ONEKAMA ∙ SLEEPING BEAR DUNES ∙ THOMPSONVILLE

Big Sable Point Lighthouse

Vacation!

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• Located on Portage Lake with 200’ of beach.

— Celebrating 66 Years — 1956 - 2022

• 6 guest rooms with soft, high quality towels, linens, and a private bath.

• Hot, homemade, fresh breakfast served each morning.

• Bike and Kayaks available.

• Close to Manistee to the south and Sleeping Bear Dunes to the north.

231-970-0335 • CanfieldHouseBnB.com

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101 S. Mitchell St., Downtown Cadillac • 231.468.3241 102 S. Michigan Ave., Big Rapids • 231.629.8464

Hull’s of Frankfort Open Year Round Family Owned & Operated Since 1956 419 Main Street, Frankfort | 231-352-4642

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Open Year Round CHECK WEBSITE FOR SEASONAL OFFERINGS

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727 Main Street • Frankfort, MI 49635 231.399.0399 • BirchandMapleFrankfort.com 46

801 N Mitchell St, Cadillac, MI 231-775-1289

wexfordjewelers.com

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frankfort pier

COVER PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER // THIS PAGE BY TAYLOR BROWN

BE HERE AT SUNSET! Oceans of fresh water and a westerly view set the scene for picture-perfect sunsets in this region. Here are five great front-row seats.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

STEARNS PARK BEACH NORTH LAKESHORE DRIVE, LUDINGTON

Within walking distance to downtown Ludington, this beach has it all: a big sandy beach and a pier to the Ludington Light. “If you time it right, you can watch the S.S. Badger go by as it heads out for its evening sail to Wisconsin (8:45 p.m. June 10–Sept. 5),” says Kim Skeltis, a PR consultant for the town of Ludington.

THE FRANKFORT PIER END OF MAIN STREET, FRANKFORT

Hands down, this is the best place to catch a sunset. Have dinner on Main Street, then grab an ice cream cone and stroll to the beach where you can walk the pier, snap photos of the sun sinking behind the North Breakwater Lighthouse and end the evening with your toes in the sand.

NORTH PIER, FIFTH AVENUE BEACH WEST END OF FIFTH AVENUE ALONG NORTH LAKESHORE DRIVE, MANISTEE

Fifth Avenue beach has every amenity available, from buckets of sand to a bathhouse and concessions, so make a day of it. And be sure to walk the pier for a photo op of the sun dipping below the Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse.

More beautiful Benzie County beaches: link.mynorth.com/benziebeaches

ARCADIA OVERLOOK M-22, ARCADIA

As if the 370-foot bluff that marks this scenic Lake Michigan overlook, also known as Inspiration Point, isn’t enough… Once you park, there are another 120 steps (80-foot vertical) up to a viewing platform that truly feels like you have reached heaven—especially at sunset.

CLAM LAKE CANAL 2506 NORTH BLVD., CADILLAC

Stroll the charming bridge over this canal (also known as the Cadillac Canal) at sunset and you might find yourself breaking into song—it looks that much like a movie set. The canal, a relic from the logging era, connects lakes Cadillac and Mitchell. Adjacent to Mitchell State Park and its campground and close to Kenwood Beach with its playground and picnic area, this canal sets the scene for an idyllic evening.

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Spend some time exploring all of the National Lakeshore’s beaches: link.mynorth.com/sleepingbearbeaches

Dog friendly Must be leashed, outdoor areas only unless noted.

beaches

FOR

EVERYONE

This region is overflowing with sand and water.

Looking for big water and big sand? We’ve got you covered.

Something more kid-friendly perhaps? Check out our inland lakes.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

PORTAGE LAKE & LAKE MICHIGAN

MAGOON CREEK NATURAL AREA & SUNDLING PARK

1927 SECOND ST. & PORTAGE AVENUE

2925 RED APPLE RD., MANISTEE

Can’t choose big or little lake? In the tiny water-filled town of Onekama you can have both. At Captain John Langland Park on Lake Michigan, where Portage Lake enters the big lake, enjoy a large sandy beach, a pier, restrooms, picnic pavilions and more. At Onekama Village Park on Portage Lake find a small beach, play area, picnic tables and Papa J’s Ice Cream and Eatery right across the street! visitmanisteecounty.com

KENWOOD HERITAGE PARK

Find a bounty of relatively quiet beaches, hiking and biking trails, picnic tables and covered pavilions at this 97-acre park on Lake Michigan. visitmanisteecounty.com

NORTH BOULEVARD, CADILLAC

Fabulous family beach on the north end of Lake Cadillac with daytime lifeguards, picnic area, pavilions, playground, disc golf and restrooms. cadillacmichigan.com

ESCH ROAD BEACH, SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE END OF ESCH ROAD, HONOR

AKA Otter Creek Beach. Located near the mouth of Otter Creek, which gently empties into Lake Michigan. There’s plenty of sand to park the cooler and beach chairs. From Empire, drive south on M-22 and turn right onto Esch Road. Dogs allowed north of beach access. For visitor pass information: nps.gov/slbe FRANKFORT PUBLIC BEACH

BEULAH PUBLIC BEACH 139 LAKE ST., BEULAH

There are a couple hundred feet of sandy frontage where Cold Creek spills into Crystal Lake at this sweet beach in this sweet town. Kids can splash in the creek and swim in a marked swimming area. Restrooms are on site and the shops and eateries of downtown Beulah are steps away. traversecity.com/benzie-county

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END OF MAIN STREET, FRANKFORT

Watch the surfers who frequent the break here, stroll the pier to the lighthouse, spread your blanket and dash up into the adjacent downtown for provisions. Frankfort beach has “big, beautiful beach day” written all over it. frankfort-elberta.com

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beulah public beach esch road beach

PHOTOS BY TAYLOR BROWN

frankfort public beach

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POINT BETSIE LIGHTHOUSE Near Frankfort

231.352.7644 | www.pointbetsie.org

2021 Small Farm Reserve Breeder of the Year

Sweaters, throws, mittens, socks, hats, stuffed animals, & much more!

May 20th - Dec. 23rd 10 am - 5 pm Closed Holidays & Sundays 231-920-7085 4907 River Road, Frankfort 2nd boutique location in the Mercato in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons CrystalLakeAlpacas.com

Rent and enjoy the charming Lighthouse Assistant Keeper’s apartment with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the Manitou Islands. This historic renovated apartment is just steps away from the beach and spectacular sunsets.

Buying or Selling?

I’ll help you make the right move.

ASSOCIATE

REAL ESTATE AGENT IN BENZIE CO.

BROKER

231-342-0921

KathyNeveu.com

57 N. Michigan Ave. Beulah, MI 49617

YOU’RE INVITED

The viewers of Good Morning America chose it as the “Most Beautiful Place in America”.

National Geographic named its beach one of the “21 Best Beaches in the World”.

It’s the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Other communities claim to be close to it but aren’t.

We don’t make that claim. It surrounds us.

So save the driving and gas...vacation here and stay here.

sleepingbeardunes.com 50

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PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

RIVER COUNTRY

platte river

Paddle into Northwoods splendor on any or all of these five rivers.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

PLATTE RIVER From the swift, chilly waters of the Upper Platte to the warm, slo-mo Lower Platte, this 29-mile-long river is made for paddling and floating fun. Arriving at the river mouth on Lake Michigan’s stunning Platte Bay is the trip’s grand finale.

OUTFITTERS: Riverside Canoes in Honor, canoemichigan.com; The Honor Trading Post, canoeplatteriver.com BETSIE RIVER This spunky, twisting, churning river isn’t for beginners or even intermediate paddlers.

But if you’re an experienced paddler, this is your river. The Betsie’s navigable waters start at Grass Lake State Forest Campground in Thompsonville, and the river empties into Lake Michigan’s Betsie Bay in Frankfort.

OUTFITTERS: Betsie River Canoes and Campground, betsierivercanoesandcampground.com; Vacation Trailer Park, vacationtrailer.com

Discover your next Benzie paddling adventure: link.mynorth.com/benziepaddle

THE BIG MANISTEE & THE LITTLE MANISTEE A federally designated Wild and Scenic River, the Big Manistee River is wide and smooth flowing. Some parts have tighter navigation and fast switchbacks which may take you a little off guard, but this is a great river for the casual paddler. You will also find an abundance of rope swings and sand bars that invite swim breaks. Looking for more of a challenge?

The separate Little Manistee River, specifically the upper section, is excellent for intermediate to advanced paddlers.

OUTFITTERS: Manistee Adventures, manisteeadventures.com; Wilderness Canoe Trips, manisteerivertrips.com; Pine River Paddlesports Center and Campground, thepineriver.com PINE RIVER Also a federally designated Wild and Scenic River, the Pine is the fastest river in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Winding through a deep, forested valley carved eons ago by glaciers, the Pine River is your next great adventure.

OUTFITTERS: Pine River Paddlesports Center and Campground, thepineriver.com; Horina Canoe & Kayak Rental, horinasprcanoe.com Have your own canoe or kayak? The Manistee County Visitors Bureau has excellent information on where to put in, take out and what to expect on each river. visitmanisteecounty.com 2022 MYNORTH

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manistee

frankfort

BENZIE

ludington

MANISTEE & C AD ILL AC

HONOR BENZONIA & BEULAH

LAKE ANN

FRANKFORT & ELBERTA ARCADIA

THOMPSONVILLE

BEAR LAKE ONEKAMA CADILLAC

MANISTEE

LUDINGTON

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small towns big charm These towns put out the welcome mat with food, libations, music and fun in the sun!

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

LAKE ANN

Set on the shore of lovely Lake Ann, find an old-fashioned grocery store, the rocking Lake Ann Brewing Company (with The Stone Oven, a fab pizza place, next door) and a downtown beach. Hike or mountain bike the Lake Ann Pathway.

HONOR

Tucked near secluded sandy beaches in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Honor is bordered by the Platte River and home to classic Northwoods taverns including Platte River Inn. Pick up BBQ from Jim’s Joint and head to the Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre.

BEULAH

The beloved Five Shores Brewing, a boutique-filled shopping district, a darling downtown beach on Crystal Lake, acclaimed golf courses nearby and Thursday evening Music in the Park concerts make this a destination town.

BENZONIA

Brake on US-31 for margaritas at The Roadhouse Mexican Bar & Grill, stop for house-made ice cream at Hill Top Soda Shoppe, explore the fabulous Benzie Area Historical Museum and take on the fam at Crystal Falls Mini Golf.

THOMPSONVILLE

Crystal Mountain, the hub of this rural township, is a top destination for snow sports and summer fun including the Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide.

Off-campus, check out Thompsonville’s Up North–style taverns and the hip Iron Fish Distillery.

FRANKFORT

This Lake Michigan harbor town has it all—hopping Stormcloud Brewing Company, the Garden Theater, memorable eateries, fun shops, a popular Lake Michigan beach, a lighthouse pier for sunset walks, the picturesque Point Betsie Lighthouse and the main trailhead for the 22-mile Betsie Valley Trail.

ELBERTA

Find a bountiful farmers market (Thursdays, May–October) and stunning views of Betsie Bay and Lake Michigan—shhh, the beach here is a bestkept secret. Top an Elberta day off by dining outside at the Cabbage Shed or Mayfair Tavern.

ARCADIA

Tucked between Lake Michigan and Arcadia Lake, this town is about water sports and beach days. But don’t miss the nationally renowned Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club. Just north on M-22, pull over at Arcadia Overlook, the highest viewing area on the Lake Michigan shoreline, and make sure to work in a hike at the magnificent Arcadia Dunes.

BEAR LAKE

Rent a boat at Bear Lake Marine and spend the day on the gorgeous sandy-bottom lake of the same name. Then find an old-fashioned country store feeling at Wee Bee Jammin’ and get U-Pick organic berries at Ware Farm.

ONEKAMA

This idyllic, slow-mo coastal town has access to both Lake Michigan and Portage Lake. Take in the outdoor Concerts in the Park on Monday evenings June 27 through Aug. 15, and be sure to nose around for some cool finds at MacBeth & Co., a styling home decor shop.

MANISTEE

It’s all things Victorian, from history tours through this town’s lumber-era architecture to the annual Manistee Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend. But it’s always fine to throw off your corset and dive into Lake Michigan at one of this city’s primo beaches, or belly up to its fabulous pubs, eateries or downtown’s North Channel Brewing Co.

LUDINGTON

The car ferry S.S. Badger calls this Lake Michigan harbor town home— hop it to Wisconsin just for fun, but come back to Ludington for the beaches, concerts in the park, Victorian-era shopping district, two historic lighthouses and groovy food. Plus, count ’em, three craft breweries.

CADILLAC

Blessed with lakes Mitchell and Cadillac, add a plethora of fabulous walking and biking trails; a bustling downtown home to boutiques, eateries and Clam Lake Beer Co.; a children’s splash pad and a renovated performing arts center. Cadillac pretty much has it all.

Discover an array of things to do at each of these uniquely northern towns: link.mynorth.com/towns. For a complete list of restaurants, lodging, shopping and more, head to: link.mynorth.com/directory.

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Special Thank You to our Official Sponsor: Golden-Fowler Home Furnishings Our Featured Sponsors: Honor Onekema Building Supply McLain Designs.

Save the Date for the 2022 Virtual Home Tours: October 28th, 2022

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THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING THE 2021 HOME TOURS! With your help, we raised $17,450 for Child and Family Services of Northwest Michigan.

Visit MyNorth.com to learn more about our donation.

4/7/22 3:23 PM

FAMILIES WELCOME! From Ludington to Beulah, the towns in this region roll out the welcome mat for kids (and their parents!).

Check out these small-fry favorites.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

PHOTO BY LYDIA MEJIA

Discover more family-friendly adventures across the North: link.mynorth.com/familyadventures

CHAIRLIFT RIDES & CRYSTAL COASTER ALPINE SLIDE, CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN Ride the chairlift to the top of Crystal Mountain and cruise down Michigan’s only alpine slide, the Crystal Coaster—a 1,700-foot-long curved track that feels like a bobsled run. Reservations: crystalmountain.com CHERRY BOWL DRIVE-IN THEATRE, HONOR The evening dress is pj’s at the Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre in Honor. Cuddle up and enjoy this memorable experience that takes you back to the ’50s with the finest in film, food, fun and family entertainment. cherrybowldrivein.com FIRST STREET BEACH, MANISTEE With its multiple playgrounds, concessions, designated swimming area and restrooms, this beach is totally kid friendly. Bonus: Watch freighters entering the Manistee River Channel. Says local dad Brandon Jensen (and owner of RightSide Design Group): “We log onto a marine navigation app that tracks freighters and time our picnic lunch or dinner down at the beach to watch them come in. Our girls love that!” visitmanisteecounty.com HISTORIC WHITE PINE VILLAGE, LUDINGTON Take kids back to the Northern Michigan pioneer era at Historic White Pine Village in Ludington.

View thousands of artifacts, historic exhibit buildings and first-person interpreters who, in the persona of historical characters, interact and improvise with visitors. historicwhitepinevillage.org SPLASHPAD AT THE CADILLAC COMMONS Your family day at Cadillac Commons might center on the Splashpad, but that’s not all there is to do at this community hub on Lake Cadillac. Check out what’s going on at the covered market and explore the Shay Locomotive, adjacent logging-era exhibit and much more. cadillacmichigan.com 2022 MYNORTH

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Plan your lighthouse tour: link.mynorth.com/lighthouses

A

lighthouses REGION

OF

From Ludington to Frankfort, these six lighthouses stand as picturesque tributes to this coast’s dramatic maritime history.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

POINT BETSIE LIGHTHOUSE, FRANKFORT

This famously photogenic lighthouse, built in 1858, is open seasonally to the public—as are the keeper’s residence, fog signal building, boathouse museum and gift shop. pointbetsie.org

little sable point lighthouse

BIG SABLE POINT LIGHTHOUSE, LUDINGTON

The payoff for a two-mile sandy hike to get to this lighthouse in Ludington State Park is the 100-foot-tall, black-and-white circa 1867 lighthouse with its inspiring view of Lake Michigan.

Open seasonally. splka.org

MANISTEE NORTH PIERHEAD LIGHTHOUSE, MANISTEE

This pretty piece of maritime history has been beaming ships into the Manistee harbor since 1872. The light is undergoing an extensive renovation and not currently open to the public. manisteemuseum.org/lighthouse

LITTLE SABLE POINT LIGHTHOUSE, MEARS

Finished in 1874, Little Sable is set in the sand dunes of what is now Silver Lake State Park. Open seasonally. splka.org

FRANKFORT NORTH BREAKWATER LIGHT, FRANKFORT

PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

Though not open to the public, the lighthouse at the pier’s end is a treasured part of the scenery. frankfort-elberta.com

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LUDINGTON NORTH BREAKWATER LIGHT, LUDINGTON

This lovely little 1924 light with its bright green glow and half-mile long pier is a main attraction in downtown Ludington. Open seasonally. pureludington.com

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manistee north pierhead lighthouse

PHOTO BY MAE STIER

PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

big sable point lighthouse

PHOTO BY MORGAN TAYLOR

point betsie lighthouse

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sip

Find a spot to grab a bite or treat your designated driver to a coffee: link.mynorth.com/dining

like a local

Explore the North’s buzzing craft beverage scene.

1 LAKE ANN BREWING CO. Rustic Up North tavern with fabulous outdoor seating area and stage. Order food from Stone Oven next door and bring it over.

2 FIVE SHORES BREWING This two-year-old craft brewery in Beulah has plenty of space to spread out in the beer garden and a laidback, coastal interior.

2 ST. AMBROSE CELLARS & BROSE BREWING Mead, wine, beer, a full food menu—there’s definitely something for everyone at this family-friendly Beulah hotspot. Look for the big red barn.

3 STORMCLOUD BREWING COMPANY This Main Street pub is a mere two blocks away from Lake Michigan. Indoor and outdoor seating, fab flatbread pizzas (and more food), live music, curling in winter.

3 STORMCLOUD’S PARKVIEW TAPROOM A 13,000-square-foot production brewery (open seasonally) with a beer garden and food trucks.

4 IRON FISH DISTILLERY Michigan’s first farm-based distillery sits on a dirt road in gorgeous Up North countryside.

Indoor and outdoor seating, a barn for events, Airbnb farmhouse, tours by reservation.

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BY CARLY SIMPSON

5 NORTHERN NATURAL CIDER HOUSE & WINERY USDA Certified Organic hard cider, organic pizza, spacious outdoor seating with fire pits and wooded hiking trails—what more could you want?

6 NORTH CHANNEL BREWING CO. Located in the historic North Channel Building in downtown Manistee right next to the river and occasional passing freighter.

Pub fare and outdoor patio (dogs must be beyond fence line).

7 JAMESPORT BREWING COMPANY Housed in a renovated Victorian storefront with a large deck in the back and a beer garden. Elevated lunch and dinner entrées like cherry bourbon sirloin.

7 LUDINGTON BAY BREWING CO. The covered patio at this Ludington hangout has a fireplace and two flatscreen TVs so you can catch the game.

8 LOVE WINES WINERY You’ll see traditional grapes (chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, merlot) on the menu along with fruits like peaches, raspberries and blueberries.

8 PERE MARQUETTE WINERY A converted equestrian tack room serves as the laidback tasting room at this family-run winery.

9 STARVING ARTIST BREWING CO. This small farmhouse brewery is pouring some creative brews. Grab a seat inside the barn or on the patio.

10 NORTH BRANCH WINERY Boutique winery in Scottville with a variety of fruit and grape wines served in a homey setting.

11 CLAM LAKE BEER CO. A brewpub and restaurant with its own beers on tap alongside those from other great breweries. A charming street patio is available if you want to soak up the sun.

11 LONG ROAD DISTILLERS The Grand Rapids-based distillery has a hip, warehouse-esque tasting room in downtown Cadillac with food trucks in the parking lot and a patio.

11 CADILLAC WINERY Find grape and fruit wines, plus cider and beer, at this sweet tasting room about 20 minutes south of Cadillac in neighboring Leroy.

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stormcloud brewing

PHOTOS BY MAE STIER

lake ann brewing co.

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paddle >< Ride >< surf >< Bike Shop SHOES >< apparel

DELICATESSEN

YOUR OUTDOOR SPECIALTY RETAILER

Order Online WWW.LCHAYIMDELI.COM

SUPS/BIKES/KAYAKS PONTOONS/LILY PADS

HOURLY DAILY WEEKLY

Delivery Available

2 Retail Locations

beulah

214 S Benzie Blvd 231.882.2527

frankfort 312 Main St 231.399.0329

Restaurant & Bar

Great Authentic scratch made Asian cuisine.

Raw Sushi Bar Largest Sake list North of Grand Rapids - Huge wine list Call or check online for hours.

Take out & online orders available. (limited hours)

231-352-4114 • the-fusion.com 60

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~ Motel rooms ~ Suites ~ ~ Vacation condominiums ~ ~ Indoor pool & spa ~ ~ Deepwater marina ~ ~ Walk to shopping & restaurants ~

15 S. Second St.,Frankfort, MI 800-346-9614 • 231-352-9614 www.HarborLightsResort.net

Gemstone Jewelry, Crystals & Fossils

Michigan Copper, Petoskey Stone, Leland Blue, Fordite & More Festival Wear • Unique Gifts Metaphysical Items

downtown Beulah • 360.900.7418

Unearth the beauty within.

etsy.com/shop/unearthedbeautiesllc

TOURS TO SLEEPING BEAR DUNES

CHARTER FISHING

Snack, Drinks and Lunch Included

CHARTER FISHING 231-651-0001

"This was my favorite activity while visiting Traverse City"

www.charterfishinginmichigan.com

Aboard the INTIMIDATOR & the INTIMIDATOR II

-July 2021 Trip Advisor Review

Big Lake Fishing for Salmon & Trout All Fish Cleaned & Bagged Sails out of Frankfort, MI

“LOCAL TICKETS ONE PLACE” DINING

19327 Caberfae Hwy, Wellston, MI 49689 231-848-4993

BILLY RAY & DANI LEE’S REDNECK YACHT CLUB Dine-in • Takeout • Outdoor Dining Burgers, broasted chicken, pizza, sandwiches and wraps. Happy hour & kids menu. Check out our Facebook page for specials.

 Trip Advisor Rating

Book Online or Call www.upnorthtour.com • 231-624-3485 2022 MYNORTH

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dine al fresco

Is there anything better than a table in the sunshine and lake breeze? Check out our town-by-town guide to eating outside in Benzie County.

BY OLIVIA FELLOWS, ALLISON JARRELL AND CARLY SIMPSON

LAKE ANN THE RED DOOR COFFEE HOUSE 19631 MAPLE ST. | 231.640.0005

Coffee shop with breakfast sandwiches, mighty fine baked goods and a charming street-side patio.

LUCKY DOG BAR & TAVERN 223 S. BENZIE BLVD. | 231.383.4499

With a 17-tap drink lineup and a diverse bar-style menu, Lucky Dog serves up your late-night favorites all day long.

FRANKFORT THE FUSION 300 MAIN ST. | 231.352.4114

Fine dining that pairs traditional Asian-inspired dishes and innovative small plates. Waterfront views of Betsie Lake.

COLD CREEK RESTAURANT THE STONE OVEN 6551 FIRST ST. | 231.275.8520

Darn good mac 'n' cheese, pizza and a robust sandwich menu. Place a to-go order and take it next door to Lake Ann Brewing.

HONOR THE CHERRY HUT 211 N. MICHIGAN AVE. | 231.882.4431

A beloved institution since 1922. Enjoy a slice of cherry pie and ice cream out on the patio.

THE MANITOU 4349 N. SCENIC HWY. | 231.882.4761

Nestled in the woods with a log cabin setting, this upscale-casual eatery serves everything from steaks and seafood to sandwiches.

BEULAH URSA MAJOR BISTRO & COFFEE SHOP 245 S. BENZIE BLVD. | 231.383.4250

Breakfast all day, espresso drinks, plus burgers and sandwiches and comfortable outdoor seating.

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185 S. BENZIE BLVD. | 231.335.1247

Great live music and classics like perch, planked whitefish, pizza and burgers.

Beautiful view of downtown.

STORMCLOUD BREWING COMPANY 303 MAIN ST. | 231.352.0118

Belgian-inspired ales pair well with inventive, smart bistro fare. Patio seating right downtown.

L’CHAYIM DELICATESSEN

BIRCH AND MAPLE

274 S. BENZIE BLVD. | 231.882.5221

727 MAIN ST. | 231.399.0399

NY-style deli offering sandwiches and handmade bagels using only organic and local ingredients.

From-scratch cuisine prepared with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.

Friendly folks and fab craft cocktails.

FIVE SHORES BREWING

ROCK’S LANDING

163 S. BENZIE BLVD. | 231.383.4400

1577 CRYSTAL DR. | 231.399.0158

Craft brewery with appetizers to share, pressed sandwiches and brats, plus a spacious beer garden and rotating food trucks.

Rock’s Landing captures the heart of Benzie County with its stone fireplace, location on the shores of Crystal Lake and its casual atmosphere blended with fine dining.

BENZONIA ROADHOUSE MEXICAN BAR & GRILL

VILLA MARINE BAR & GRILL

1058 BENZIE HWY. | 231.882.9631

228 MAIN ST. | 231.352.5450

A local favorite for delicious Mexicaninspired cuisine (tacos, quesadillas and freshly made chips and guacamole) with quaint outdoor seating.

Take in the views from a beautiful deck overlooking the harbor of Betsie Bay, or belly up to the full-service bar for one of their famous cocktails or a local brew.

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stormclooud brewing

clam lake beer co.

ELBERTA CABBAGE SHED 198 FRANKFORT AVE. | 231.352.9843

Back porch overlooking Betsie Bay. Fish ’n’ chips, buttermilk chicken, burgers and fish tacos. Live music and a huge selection of Irish whiskeys.

MAYFAIR TAVERN 515 FRANKFORT AVE. | 231.352.9136

A local favorite since 1933. Sit outdoors with a hand-pressed burger and a cold craft beer.

THISTLE PUB & GRILLE

M-22 GRILL

12500 CRYSTAL MOUNTAIN DR. | 855.995.5146

5159 MAIN ST. | 231.889.7133

Located at Crystal Mountain, this eatery’s Rose Garden is a perfect spot for dinner after a day of golf or a ride down the resort’s alpine slide.

Charming eatery serving breakfast and lunch all day with a small deck out back.

PAPA J’S ICE CREAM & EATERY

ARCADIA ARCADIA BLUFFS 14710 NORTHWOOD HWY. | 231.889.3009

This award-winning golf course has several dining options, ranging from casual to fine.

The dining room and its deck offer spectacular views of Lake Michigan, especially at sunset.

THOMPSONVILLE 231 BAR & GRILL

ARCADIA ICE HOUSE

17170 VONDRA RD. | 231.378.0231

17073 NORTHWOOD HWY. | 231.889.4555

Fun spot for live music and a meal. Grab a seat on the patio.

An old-fashioned ice cream and soda shop with nostalgic décor and furnishings from the 1900s.

GENO’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL

BEAR LAKE GRILLE 44

4825 MAIN ST. | 231.889.4410

Ice cream, sandwiches, hot dogs, pizza and more, plus watersport rentals and a patio.

MANISTEE BIG AL’S PIZZA 221 E. PARKDALE AVE. | 231.723.6239

Pizza, submarine sandwiches and Mexicaninspired dishes, too. The deck has a few picnic tables.

BLUE FISH KITCHEN + BAR 312 RIVER ST. | 231.887.4188

14848 THOMPSON AVE. | 231.378.2554

Find burgers, broasted chicken and pizza at this chill neighborhood haunt with a pool table and jukebox.

12951 PLEASANTON HWY. | 231.864.4000

Casual family-friendly restaurant with burgers, sandwiches and a broasted chicken dinner, plus a patio.

IRON FISH DISTILLERY 14234 DZUIBANEK RD. | 231.378.3474

A farm-to-flask distillery with gorgeous cocktails, wood-fired pizzas and lots of lawn/ patio seating.

The riverside deck at this downtown restaurant is a real winner.

THE FILLMORE 318 RIVER ST. | 231.887.4121

The burgers are fab, but so is everything else on the menu. Sweet sidewalk patio.

ONEKAMA THE GLENWOOD

FRICANO’S

4604 MAIN ST. | 231.889.3734

440 RIVER ST.

Casual but elevated menu with dishes like almond-battered shrimp, bleu cheese filet mignon and always homemade desserts.

Popular Michigan pizza chain with a new riverside location in Manistee. Expansive deck with freighter views.

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HOUSE-SMOKED TO FALL OFF THE BONE

PERFECTION RIBS PORK CHICKEN BURGERS. SALADS. SANDWICHES. FRIDAY FISH FRY.

Open 7 days a week at noon

We serve up good food and good times!

Daily Food & Drink Specials

Full carry-out menu!

Home of Lucilles’ St. Louis style ribs!

Served every Thursday from 5 until 9pm

Located 1.7 miles east of Crystal Mountain in Historic Downtown Thompsonville

www.genossportsbar.com | 231-378-2554

Celebrating 35 years of our Original recipe & same location!

Dessert Breads · Pies Apple Dumplings One of Traverse Magazine’s “Best Eats!”

Dine-in OR order take-out online.

415 MAIN ST, FRANKFORT, MI

Visit us online for hours

DINGHYSRESTAURANT.COM

Mr. Foisies Pasties All baked fresh every day!

Open 7 days a week 10am—7pm M-55 & M-115 154 Leisure St • Cadillac

779-9042

rocks landing food ~ view ~ people ~ rock solid.

r or o c ckkss ll aa n dd iinngg

231-399-0158

food ~ view ~ people ~ rock solid. www.rocksoncrystal.com

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NORTH CHANNEL BREWING CO.

LUDINGTON BAY BREWING CO.

CLAM LAKE BEER CO.

86 WASHINGTON ST. | 231.299.1020

515 S. JAMES ST. | 231.239.6690

106 S. MITCHELL ST. | 231.775.6150

Watch the boat action at the drawbridge in this refined but industrial brewery with pub fare.

The covered patio at this craft brewery (with a full food menu) has a fireplace and two flatscreen TVs so you can catch the game.

Choose from 40 craft beers on tap, wood-fired pizzas, grilled Angus burgers.

RIVER STREET STATION 350 RIVER ST. | 231.723.8411

Homemade soups, sandwiches, burgers and an all-you-can-eat Friday fish fry. Beautiful ivy-covered deck by the river.

TACO BOUT IT 344 RIVER ST. | 231.887.4441

Ultra-fresh tacos on hand-pressed corn tortillas; aguas frescas and burrito plates.

COYOTE CROSSING RESORT STIX 1963 N. LAKESHORE DR. | 231.845.8181

Completely reconstructed and expanded as a two-story, fine dining restaurant. Live music, outdoor rooftop, beer garden with lawn games, covered patio with fireplace, plus a bowling alley.

399 RIVER ST. | 231.398.9174

Take a step down from the sloped sidewalk for paninis, Mexican cuisine and pizza below the stately Ramsdell Inn or find a spot on the sidewalk patio.

LUDINGTON BARNHARTS MARINA & RESTAURANT 6006 BARNHART RD. | 231.843.8246

Caribbean and Southern food served up beside beautiful Hamlin Lake on two waterfront decks.

Yes, you can arrive by boat.

BORTELL’S FISHERIES 5510 S. LAKESHORE DR. | 231.843.3337

Seasonal spot for the freshest fish. Sold by the pound or as a dinner basket with fries and slaw.

Takeout only; bring cash or check; picnic tables.

THE BLU MOON

Two locations at Stearns Park Beach with a variety of supplies (think sunscreen, sand pails, toys), lemonade, hot dogs, ice cream, snacks and more. The South Beach shop has burgers, sandwiches and deep-fried Oreos.

CAFE 106 106 N. RATH AVE. | 231.425.3669

From-scratch breakfast and lunch.

Sidewalk tables.

CLUCK BUCKET 88 S. PERE MARQUETTE HWY. | 231.907.0370

Barbecue meats, famous pit-tatoes, mac 'n' cheese. Large outdoor seating area with a pavilion.

DOCKSIDE INN RESTAURANT Overlooking Lake Cadillac with a large deck, premium steaks, pasta, seafood.

HERMANN’S CAFÉ & RESTAURANT 214 N. MITCHELL ST. | 231.775.9563

Go for the European-inspired menu, wine market and sweet sidewalk patio.

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LAKESIDE CHARLIES

130 W. LUDINGTON AVE. | 231.843.6555

301 S. LAKE MITCHELL DR. | 231.775.5332

Southern cuisine inspired by Charleston, South Carolina, and a robust wine list.

A fine deck on Lake Mitchell. The hunt club–style restaurant features burgers, aged beef, fish and wild game.

TIMBERS STEAK & SEAFOOD 320 S. JAMES ST. | 231.425.9111

Two-story deck overlooks the Lake Michigan marina and SS Badger. A steak at sunset?

Heck, yes.

MR. FOISIE’S PASTIES 154 LEISURE ST. | 231.779.9042

Enjoy freshly made pasties, pies, apple dumplings and cinnamon rolls at one of the picnic tables on the lawn.

THE Q SMOKEHOUSE 225 S. JAMES ST. | 231.425.3933

Superb BBQ and sides. Have a beer on the patio out back or order to-go for a beach picnic.

125 S. JAMES ST. | 231.843.2001

Family-friendly fusion bistro with an in-house sushi kitchen and an open-air deck.

Full bar and restaurant with Northwoods décor set on beautiful property in the Manistee National Forest. American fare. Live music on a new outdoor stage.

2404 SUNNYSIDE DR. | 231.775.9322

SUNSET SIDE CONCESSIONS STEARNS PARK

TJ’S PUB

8593 S. 13 RD. | 231.862.3212

PRIMOS BBQ 916 S. MITCHELL ST. | 231.779.1575

Located inside Willow Market & Meats.

Order Texas-style pit BBQ and sit on the patio.

CADILLAC AFTER 26 DEPOT

RAVEN SOCIAL

127 W. CASS ST. | 231.468.3526

119 S. MITCHELL ST. | 231.444.6396

Casual eatery dedicated to employing adults with developmental disabilities and cognitive impairment.

A hip spot for BBQ plates, burgers, soon-to-befamous poutine and live entertainment. Garage doors open up to a sidewalk patio area.

BURKE'S WATERFRONT

THE TRUCK STOP

2403 SUNNYSIDE DR. | 231.775.7555

902 W. 13TH ST. | 231.884.5752

Laidback hangout with a big deck overlooking a forested lake serving traditional American fare.

Specializing in smoked brisket and pork.

Live music, volleyball court, backyard/patio seating, full bar.

CADILLAC GRILL 7839 E. 46 1/2 RD. | 231.779.3663

CROWN & CORK 502 W. LOOMIS ST. | 231.425.3557

Trendy waterfront restaurant and bar with dueling pianos and a deck.

Sitting at the top of the Eldorado Golf Course with panoramic views of the golf course and a full-length deck.

CHICO'S TACO HOUSE

JAMESPORT BREWING COMPANY 410 S. JAMES ST. | 231.845.2522

Housed in a renovated Victorian storefront with a large deck in the back and a beer garden. Elevated lunch and dinner entrées like cherry bourbon sirloin.

5954 E. M-55 | 231.775.7272

Cute little yellow house with an equally cute patio and delish enchiladas, tostadas, chimichangas and much more.

Must-try restaurants, insider menu recommendations and seasonal recipes: link.mynorth.com/dining

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PHOTO BY SHELBY SOBERALSKI

THINGS TO DO IN

ludington state park Explore this hidden gem’s eight miles of Lake Michigan beach, designated hiking trails, dunes and dreamy Hamlin Lake shoreline.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

Kid-friendly, by the water, remote islands … discover more state park and camping adventures: link.mynorth.com/camp

According to Steve Begnoche, a member of Friends of Ludington State Park, the possibilities are endless in this 5,300-acre gem of the state park system. Here’s his top 10 summer to-do list.

1. Hike the Lost Lake/Island Trail to enjoy views of Hamlin Lake and a snack at the CCC-built trail shelter along the way.

2. Kayak the canoe trail on Hamlin Lake early in the morning when the lake is quiet and one can enjoy wildlife, waterfowl and serenity.

3. Explore the dunes along M-116 taking in the interdunal ponds and sandy vistas that show a different and less-visited side of the park.

4. Swim in the clear, cool water of Lake Michigan then warm up while reading or napping on a blanket in the sand.

5. Walk the Lake Michigan shoreline any time of day, but especially at sunset, lingering for the twilight afterglow.

6. Hike the 1.8 miles to Big Sable Point Lighthouse then climb the tower of this historic landmark maintained by the Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association to take in the breathtaking view from atop the 1867 structure.

7. Take in a Friends of Ludington State Park–sponsored summer evening concert or nature program at the amphitheater or Lake Michigan beach house.

8. Float the Big Sable River from the Hamlin Lake dam to the outlet at Lake Michigan in lazy, liquid luxury.

9. Enjoy a campfire and conversation to end a busy day.

10. When dark settles in, head to the beach or dunes to savor stars and the Milky Way, and to scan for meteors, northern lights and, when conditions are right, lights in Wisconsin glimmering across the lake.

For more info: michigan.gov/dnr; friendsofludingtonstatepark.org Steve Begnoche is a charter board member and board secretary of the nonprofit Friends of Ludington State Park, which for the past 30 years has sought to assist and improve the park, its environment and user experience.

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DUNES, DUNES, DUNES From Ludington to Honor, the Lake Michigan shoreline is bordered by undulating heaps of silken sand. Here’s a thumbnail sketch of nature’s three masterpieces.

arcadia dunes

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

Dog friendly Must be leashed, outdoor areas only unless noted.

NORDHOUSE DUNES WILDERNESS AREA Stretching between Ludington and Manistee, you’ll discover 3,500 acres of dunes that are part of the Huron-Manistee National Forest. These ancient sand piles are 3,500 to 4,000 years old and some soar to 140 feet high. Roll up your pants for some world-class wading: Known scientifically as part of the Big Sable Dunes Complex, these dunes contain the largest area of freshwater interdunal ponds (shallow pools between dunes) in the world. All that water means plenty of wildlife habitat.

Ten miles of trails thread through the Nordhouse Dunes, accessible from two trailheads: Nurnberg Road and Lake Michigan Recreation Area. A $5 day use fee is required. Tent camping is permitted in some areas with additional fees. Mechanized vehicles are prohibited. fs.usda.gov SLEEPING BEAR DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE Ten thousand acres of the 71,199-acre Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore lie in Benzie County.

Down the road from the park’s major attractions including the Dune Climb, Benzie’s portion of the park is home to the secluded Peterson Road and Tiesma Road Lake Michigan beaches. More popular are the Esch Road (where Otter Creek flows into Lake Michigan) and Platte Point (at the Platte River mouth) beaches. (Dogs allowed, except at Platte Point.) nps.gov/slbe ARCADIA DUNES: THE C.S. MOTT PRESERVE Moving north along the Lake Michigan coastline to the Manistee/Benzie County line, the Arcadia Dunes pillow up to magnificent bluffs. The dune known as Old Baldy, in fact, towers 356 feet high, making it one of the tallest dunes along the Great Lakes’ coastline. Old Baldy and its adjacent 3,600 acres and two miles of shoreline are protected by Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy’s C.S. Mott Preserve. The conservancy has worked diligently to protect the dunes’ fragile ecosystem while making it accessible to visitors. Trails include the universally accessible Overlook Trail that leads to a magnificent viewpoint, as well as several multiuse trails (hiking, trail running and biking). gtrlc.org 68

PHOTO BY LYDIA MEJIA

Discover more Sleeping Bear Dunes beaches, trails and campgrounds: link.mynorth.com/sleepingbear

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BOOK YOUR RESERVATION TODAY Northern Exposure is Michigan’s premiere “Up-North” Camping Experience. Located on 300 wooded acres, including 2.5 miles of coastline on the Hodenpyle Pond. Offering rural campsites, lakeside RV sites, personal cabins, rustic or water/electric sites, boat launch, WI-FI, arcade, pizzeria, camp store, and laundromat.

S

132 Coast Guard Rd. | PO Box 1513 Frankfort, MI 49635 | (231) 352-4151 www.oliverart.org

285 Manistee River Drive, Mesick, MI 49668 • 231-885-1199

northernexposureinc.com

Classes | Exhibitions | Events | Gift Shop

HOME DECOR, GIFTS, & MORE! 262 S. Benzie Blvd, Beulah, MI 49617 231.383.4297 • graceandlaurel.com Voted #1 for home decor in Benzie County.

Where History is Fun!

RIVERSIDE C A N O E

T R I P S

Kayaks |Tubes |Canoes |Rafts Boats |SUPs 3rd Largest Historic Village & Maritime Museum in the State! Combo Tickets Available!

MasonCountyMiHistory.org 231-843-4808

VISIT

231-325-5622

www.canoemichigan.com

5042 N. Scenic Hwy Honor, MI 49640

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CRYSTAL

SUMMER

There’s so much Crystal fun to be done when it’s warm out. Swim. Bike.

Hike. Ride the Alpine slide. Enjoy a massage or facial in the Crystal Spa. Play our championship 18-hole golf courses, both rated  by Golf Digest. Book your Crystal summer stay now.

C R YS TA L M O U N TA I N .C O M

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THOMPSONVILLE, MI

Ad Number:

PP-CM-22426A

Trim:

8.25" x 10.875"

4/4/22 9:48 PM

PETOSKEY & MACKINAC STRAITS BAY HARBOR ∙ BOYNE CITY ∙ BOYNE COUNTRY ∙ CHEBOYGAN ∙ CROSS VILLAGE HARBOR SPRINGS ∙ MACKINAC ISLAND ∙ MACKINAW CITY ∙ PETOSKEY ∙ ST. IGNACE ∙ WALLOON LAKE

Bayfront Park

Vacation!

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World Famous Smoked Pork Loin, Bacon, Ham, Hot Dogs, Bratwurst, and Smoked Fish.

Nationwide Shipping Available at Plathsmeats.com 2200 East Mitchell Rd. at the corner of Mitchell & Division Roads PETOSKEY 231-348-8100 116 South 3rd Street ROGERS CITY 989-734-2232

Your Northern Michigan Vacation Awaits...

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COVER PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER // THIS PAGE BY RACHEL HAGGERTY

BE HERE AT SUNSET!

petoskey state park

Check out the five choicest seats in the Petoskey region for watching the greatest show on Earth!

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

SUNSET PARK 101 E. LAKE ST., PETOSKEY

As its name implies, this bluff above Little Traverse Bay offers a front row seat to the nightly color show.

Located above Bayfront Park. To get there, take the stairway … to heaven.

PETOSKEY STATE PARK 2475 M-119, PETOSKEY

Spend a day on this state park’s beautiful beach and cap it off by climbing the steps to the top of the dune known as Old Baldy to witness the glorious orb melting into the water.

STURGEON BAY, WILDERNESS STATE PARK 903 WILDERNESS PARK DR., CARP LAKE

Hike, paddle and splash your way across this state park’s 10,512 acres with miles of shoreline—but make sure you are set up at Sturgeon Bay Beach on Lake Michigan at sunset. Soft sand and few people make this spot on N. Lake Shore Dr. a stellar amphitheater.

A sunset is the perfect end to a day spent exploring M-119.

Fill your day with these stops along the iconic highway: link.mynorth.com/tunneltreesguide

HEADLANDS INTERNATIONAL DARK SKY PARK 15675 HEADLANDS RD., MACKINAW CITY

This 550-acre park with its two miles of undeveloped shoreline is devoted to looking at the cosmos.

Catching the sunsets here is just the beginning—the park is open 24 hours a day, so stay for an entire night of stargazing.

SUNSET ROCK OFF CUDAHY CIRCLE, MACKINAC ISLAND

With its dreamy due-west view of Lake Huron and the Mackinac Bridge, this spot spells romance. To find it, head to The Inn at Stonecliffe (8593 Cudahy Cir.) and take the trail that heads southwest to the bluff. After a short walk you’ll come to a set of stone steps that lead up to it.

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Find more things to do on a Mackinac Island day trip or weekend getaway: link.mynorth.com/mackinac

mackinac island

PHOTO BY KELLY REWA

INSIDER'S

As the content manager for the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau, Steph Castelein knows the island inside and out.

So, what are her go-tos when she takes time off to show family and friends around? Here’s her list.

BY STEPH CASTELEIN

RIDE BIKES AND EXPLORE

I love showcasing all of the island for friends and family. Of course, we have to make our way around the 8.2-mile perimeter, but we also like to head into the interior trails. Here we can spend time exploring places like Sugar Loaf, Arch Rock, Fort Holmes, Mackinac Airport, Sunset Rock and Wawashkamo Golf Club.

TAKE A LIVE HISTORY LESSON AT FORT MACKINAC

Fort Mackinac does a fantastic job in telling the story of the island and giving you historical context. The live demonstrations are a bonus and you can’t beat the views from the Fort Mackinac Tea Room!

WANDER SURREY HILL

Surrey Hill has a great pace to it. It’s quieter than downtown but there’s a lot to see in this area. The Grand Hotel Stables has an interesting vintage carriage museum and you can become mesmerized watching the blacksmith at work in his shop, Forge a Memory. The Wings of Mackinac butterfly conservatory is fun for both kids and adults! We love the green space and shade, and it’s a convenient location to grab a snack and use the bathroom.

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HIKE UP TO FORT HOLMES

With panoramic views of the Straits of Mackinac, the climb to the highest point on Mackinac Island is always worth it.

GRAB ICE CREAM OR FUDGE AND SIT BY THE WATER

My favorite part of Mackinac is getting to slow down and enjoy it. After doing all the things, it’s nice to take a break once in a while.

HIT A BAR (OR BARS!) FOR AN EVENING OF LIVE MUSIC

A night out on Mackinac is a whole lot of fun. We’ll usually visit one of the bars with live music.

SHOP AND DINE DOWNTOWN

Mackinac Island has such a variety of stores and restaurants. Check out the art galleries and grab a bite to eat throughout the day.

CATCH THE SUNSET ON SUNSET ROCK

We always seem to make our way to Sunset Rock. I like to show my guests this side of the island, take in the views, and we usually end up spending time at The Lawn at Stonecliffe, which is a beautiful spot for casual outdoor dining.

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magic ferries…

Mackinac Island’s ferries are more than just water taxis. They also offer incredible tours!

Shepler’s Ferry Night Sky Cruise As the stars come out, night sky expert Mary Stewart Adams narrates the action in the heavens. Shepler’s has 11 Night Sky Cruises this year, all timed around astronomical events, plus cruises to remote lighthouses, the Les Cheneaux Islands and VIP views of Fourth of July fireworks. sheplersferry.com

pink pony

Star Line’s Pirate Ship Shiver me timbers! From June 20 to September 5, ride The Good Fortune to or from the island. Star Line has other fabulous cruises as well, including on the Tall Ship Appledore IV and a special Fourth of July Fireworks event. mackinacferry.com

PHOTO BY KELLY REWA

fort mackinac

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Beautiful Views, Impeccable Dining

CARRIAGE HOUSE AT HOTEL IROQUOIS ON MACKINAC ISLAND

(906) 847-3321 7485 MAIN STREET MACKINAC ISLAND

Shop for Fun Finds & Some One of a Kinds Good Hart • Michigan • 231.526.7110

carriagehousemackinac.com

Astudioshop.com • Astudioshop@gmail.com

Classical Music and So Much More!

Year-round Excitement!

Ticketed Main Stage Performances Free Community Sunday Series Free Outdoor Summer Concerts Great Lakes Chamber Orchestra 219 E. Lake St., Petoskey 231-487-0010 l www.glcorchestra.org

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GO BACK IN TIME AT MACKINAC STATE HISTORIC PARKS Great Lakes history comes alive at Mackinac State Historic Parks, home to Colonial Michilimackinac, Historic Mill Creek, Fort Mackinac and Fort Holmes. Here’s a closer look.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

COLONIAL MICHILIMACKINAC, MACKINAW CITY

Constructed in 1715 by French soldiers and fur traders, the fort fell into British hands in 1761. It was abandoned during the American Revolution, when British troops built and occupied Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island.

Nowadays, the grounds within the stockades are abuzz with costumed interpreters. See British soldiers giving rifle demonstrations and firing the fort cannon while voyageurs and merchant families offer craft and wood-fire cooking demonstrations. Visitors can even watch the ongoing archeological dig that happens each summer within the fort walls.

HISTORIC MILL CREEK DISCOVERY PARK, MACKINAW CITY

PHOTO BY KELLY REWA

History and outdoor adventure come together here. Watch a reconstructed sawmill in action; climb the five-story Treetop Discovery Tower; teeter across the forest canopy bridge; fly over the creek on a zip line and much more.

FORT MACKINAC, MACKINAC ISLAND

Founded in 1780, Fort Mackinac sits on a limestone bluff overlooking the island’s downtown and the wild waters of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan.

Its sweeping views made it a strategic outpost for the British and United States armies for 115 years. Though the real action here ceased in 1885, the fort’s 14 original historic buildings still echo with the sounds of military

pomp thanks to costumed interpreters. Hear the wicked crack of a rifle fired by a 19th-century American soldier and quick-step to the gun platforms to catch a cannon-firing demonstration (or reserve your spot to fire the morning’s first cannon volley! Must be at least 13; $75).

FORT HOLMES, MACKINAC ISLAND

Fort Holmes was built by British soldiers in 1814 during the War of 1812 to protect Fort Mackinac against an attack. When United States soldiers peacefully reoccupied the island after the war, it was renamed Fort Holmes in honor of American Major Andrew Hunter Holmes, who was killed in the 1814 Battle of Mackinac Island. Fort Holmes was eventually abandoned. Sitting at the highest elevation on the island, the fort was recently reconstructed and is free and open to the public during normal operating hours.

Mackinac State Historic Parks are open May through October. Visitors can also tour Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, Mackinac Art Museum and Biddle House, featuring the Mackinac Island Native American Museum. mackinacparks.com

INSIDER’S GUIDE TO MSHP

We asked Mackinac State Historic Parks staff to share where they take family and friends when they visit. Here’s what they told us: “I take them to Colonial Michilimackinac to see the lovely gardens.

I especially like that the site is pet friendly.” –LeeAnn Ewer, Interpretive Assistant “My family and I go straight to the Tea Room at Fort Mackinac for a milkshake. The view from the porch overlooking the harbor, Mackinac Bridge and downtown Mackinac Island is breathtaking.” –Cassondra Boothroyd, Group Travel & Special Events Coordinator “I bring my guests to the Officer’s Stone Quarters at Fort Mackinac and tell them they’ve now visited Michigan’s oldest building (built in 1780!).

That building is also home to the Kids’ Quarters [an interactive play space] and has an amazing view, so it’s definitely an easy thing to show off.”

–Dominick Miller, Chief of Marketing “I have taken middle school–aged family members out to Mill Creek Discovery Park in the summer where they’ve watched the saw pit/sawmill demonstration, climbed the rock wall, ridden the zip line … Later, when I ask ‘What was your favorite part?’ They always say the sawmill/saw pit demonstration. It’s a hidden gem.” –Suzette Schmalzried, Sales Manager 2022 MYNORTH

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Discover an array of things to do at each of these uniquely northern towns: link.mynorth.com/towns. For a complete list of restaurants, lodging, shopping and more, head to: link.mynorth.com/directory.

small towns big charm Welcome to the towns (and one island!) of the Petoskey-Mackinac Straits region.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

BAY HARBOR

The additions of the Great Lakes Center for the Arts and Mammoth Distilling to this waterside village, along with the long-loved Knot Just a Bar, keep Bay Harbor hopping.

BOYNE COUNTRY

This gorgeous tapestry of recreation is woven from Boyne City, Walloon Lake Village, Boyne Resorts and shorelines on both Lake Charlevoix and Walloon Lake. Find fabulous craft-beer pubs, boutiques and an abundance of waterside parks including Young State Park.

CHEBOYGAN

In this city blessed with Lake Huron and Cheboygan River frontage, view shipwrecks through a glass-bottomed boat with Nautical North Family Adventures and hike and bike on more trails than in any other county in the state. Entertainment ranges from the restored Victorianera Cheboygan Opera House to the super-authentic Jack Pine Lumberjack Shows. Cheboygan Brewing Co. has the craft-beer scene covered and no one leaves town without eating at the Hack-Ma-Tack Inn & Restaurant on the Cheboygan River.

CROSS VILLAGE & GOOD HART

Treat yourself to browsing these darling towns on scenic M-119, otherwise known as the Tunnel of Trees. In Good Hart, find the Good Hart General Store, Primitive Images, Good Hart and Soul Tea Room and A Studio gift shop. Farther north, in Cross Village, stop into Old World Café, Three Pines Studio and Legs Inn—an authentic Polish restaurant in a cool stone-andtimber building.

HARBOR SPRINGS

Beach day in this town? Choose from kid-friendly downtown Zorn Park beach or 300 feet of relatively secluded bliss at Thorne Swift Nature

Preserve. Harbor Springs is also the launching point for the scenic M-119 Tunnel of Trees—20 miles of natural beauty. Before you take off, don’t miss the elegant boutiques and relaxed eateries that call this sweet downtown home.

MACKINAC ISLAND

Take the eight-mile scenic bike ride around the island, go back in time at Fort Mackinac, rock in a rocker on the longest porch in the world at Grand Hotel, gorge on fudge, tour the island by carriage, sip a cocktail waterside at Pink Pony, snap a selfie at Arch Rock and never, ever get in a car. These are just a few of our favorite things to do on this glorious island.

MACKINAW CITY

How could you not love a city tucked at the base of the Mackinac Bridge and at the edge of the storied Straits of Mackinac? For the best history lesson ever, visit Colonial Michilimackinac. To see how the cosmos looks from the tip of our beautiful peninsula, visit Headlands International Dark Sky Park. Don’t miss the shops, restaurants and a host of other attractions.

And never miss the ferry to Mackinac Island!

PETOSKEY

For adventure, set your kayak into the whitewater at the Bear River Valley Recreation Area. Get your culture on browsing the exhibits at Crooked Tree Arts Center, or take in a concert in the resort community of Bay View, known for its gingerbread cottages. Wind down in the historic Gaslight District, where the Victorian-era storefronts are packed with fabulous shops, galleries, boutiques and eating/drinking establishments.

ST. IGNACE

Learn about the Mackinac Bridge (while you are looking at it!) at Bridge View Park, take the historic walking tour along the Lake Huron Boardwalk to the Wawatam Lighthouse or lose yourself in the silky Lake Michigan sand dunes along US-2.

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region, two state parks

Shining like jewels along the coast of Lake Michigan, these two state parks offer spectacular beaches, hiking trails and camping facilities.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

PETOSKEY STATE PARK

WILDERNESS STATE PARK

A visit to Petoskey State Park, with its stretch of dune-lined Little Traverse Bay shoreline, is a must for beach and nature lovers. Although situated between Petoskey and Harbor Springs, the park feels miles from anywhere.

Looking for a place to disconnect and recharge? Head for the 10,000 acres, 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and 20 miles of trails at Wilderness State Park. Did we mention the blazing night sky? Wilderness is a Dark Sky Preserve, meaning man-made lights are prohibited from blocking out the Milky Way’s natural shine.

2475 M-119 HWY., 231.347.2311

Pick your own quiet spot in the sun or stroll the shore looking for Petoskey stones (fossilized coral etched with a honeycomb design that this region is famous for). Take an easy walk on the forested hiking trails—Portage Trail is two miles roundtrip and Old Baldy, a popular dune with scenic views of the bay, is just a half-mile long.

Beyond dunes, forest and water, find sand volleyball courts and 180 modern campsites—tailor-made for Lake Michigan sunsets and s’mores.

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903 WILDERNESS PARK DR., CARP LAKE, 231.436.5381

Sure, you’ll meet other campers tucked into the wide range of sites (rustic, full hook-up and even cabins), but you might also cross paths with wildlife, from otters to black bears.

For more information on both parks: michigan.gov/dnr

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wilderness state park

petoskey state park

PHOTO BY TESS CROWLEY

Kid-friendly, by the water, remote islands ... discover more camping adventures: link.mynorth.com/camp

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L i tt l e Tr a v e r s e Ti l e w o r k s

-Handmade Tile -Work from 20+ Artists -Custom tile -Backsplashes, Fireplaces, Decorative tile -Studio on site

108 E 3rd St Harbor Springs MI 231.526.5807 littletraverse.com

PAINTING BY KEVIN BARTON VASE BY JAKE PHEIFER

Pontoon Boat Rentals

Share over 40 Miles of Inland Lakes & Waterways This Summer with Your Family & Friends!

See our Showroom

Seasonal Boat Slips Pleasure Call Us Today For Daily & Weekend Full Service Marina Pontoon & Ski Boat Rentals

Seasonal and Transient Boat Slips Available Explore the Inland Waterway!

FINE ART • UNIQUE GIFTS JEWELRY • FUNCTIONAL ART 302 E. Lake St. Petoskey • 231-881-4745 somebodysgallery.com

3020 Apple Blossom, Indian River www.indianrivermarina.com 231-238-9373 231-238-9373 • IndianRiverMarina.com

DOWNTOWN PETOSKEY Established 1985

g Award-Winnin Celebrating 37 Year s of Baking & Sellin g Cookies!

Family run business specializing in Gourmet Cinnamon Rolls crafted from a family German recipe passed down from Matilda “Tillie” Dewes over 100 years.

437 E. Mitchell St, Petoskey, MI 49770 Thursday – Monday 7am to 3pm • 231-753-2044 www.tilliestafel.com • @tilliestafel • Nationwide Shipping Now Available Online WINERIES

t tomsmomscookie We ship ever yw s.com here! Order online a

TOM’S MOM’S

COOKIES

®

We are looking forward to welcoming you back this summer season. Our walk-up window has been such a hit with customers that it’s become a permanent fixture! Visit us and sample some of our 21 different varieties, or order online. You’ll be glad you did!

Featured on the Today Show, the Food Network and the Rachael Ray Show!

267 S. Spring St. · Harbor Springs · 231-526-6606 82

983 10th Road Bark River, MI 49807 906-399-9212

All our wines are made from grape varietals grown in our vineyard and selected for their suitability to the colder climate of the Upper Peninsula. Open Wednesday through Sunday 1-6pm EST. northernsunwinery.com

TOURS

Call to book your 2022 tour: 231-499-9400

ITʼS ABOUT VINE Private, luxury wine tours in the Petoskey and Charlevoix area. Visit our website to make reservations: petoskeywinerytour.com

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Indian Hills gallery

Authentic American Indian Art Jewelry, beads, books, music, Petoskey stones

231.347.3789 1581 M-119, Petoskey MI 49770

4127 M-75 Walloon Lake, MI 49796 hotelwalloon.com | (231) 535-5000

BAKED GOODS, PASTRIES, CAKES, BREAD, BAGELS, SANDWICHES & MORE! M-119 213.242.4800

HARBOR SPRINGS 231.526.0907

PETOSKEY 231.347.3815

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sip

Break for lunch plus treat your designated driver to a latte: link.mynorth.com/dining

like a local

Explore the North’s buzzing craft beverage scene.

1 MACKINAW TRAIL WINERY & BREWERY The Petoskey tasting room sits on 30 acres of rolling hills and has a bistro serving small plates. A second tasting room is located in Mackinaw City (seasonal, dogs not allowed).

1 RESORT PIKE CIDERY & WINERY A (proudly) no-frills establishment tucked next door to a historic barn with woodsy views and a focus on sparkling wine and cider, including a unique iced cider made from frozen apples.

1 WALLOON LAKE WINERY Rustic tasting room with soaring ceilings built from wood harvested at the long-time family farm. MAEAP Certified, meaning the farm meets the state’s highest environmental standards.

1 GABRIEL FARMS & WINERY A winery, brewery, event center and, yes, a farm. Book a room in the historic farmhouse or a private apartment to make it a weekend away.

1 HIGH FIVE SPIRITS Tasting rooms in downtown Petoskey (patio is dog friendly) and on Mackinac Island (the Mackinac Island Rum Co.). Renovating the former Bay Harbor equestrian center into a distillery and events center expected to open this summer.

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BY CARLY SIMPSON

2 RUDBECKIA WINERY & BURNT MARSHMALLOW BREWSTILLERY Sip wine, beer, cider and spirits on 150+ acres (open to public) with views of Lake Michigan and Walloon Lake. Out back, play bocce, corn hole and board games.

3 BOYNE VALLEY VINEYARDS Beautiful barn-like tasting room with a treehouse tasting deck, large patio, live music and light food. Next to Postle Farm, a 113-acre nature preserve.

4 PETOSKEY FARMS VINEYARD & WINERY Enjoy your wine on a 1,150-square-foot deck overlooking the countryside (especially pretty in fall). Wood-fired pizzas served seasonally in summer.

5 MAPLE MOON SUGARBUSH & WINERY Michigan’s only commercial maple winery has an intimate, cozy tasting room. Also try the maple ginger hard cider, maple root beer and maple candy.

6 POND HILL FARM Located on the famous M-119 Tunnel of Trees, this family-friendly winery/brewery/ café/farm/market has hiking trails, a livestock barn, gnome-house hunt and more.

7 CROOKED VINE VINEYARD & WINERY Cabin-inspired tasting room with a covered patio and panoramic views. Check out the on-site walking trail through a woodland area.

8 SEASONS OF THE NORTH WINERY & BURT LAKE BREWERY In warmer months, enjoy the garden area and its vineyard views. Picnics are welcome.

Dogs allowed inside and out.

9 BEARDS BREWERY Watch a Little Traverse Bay sunset from the large patio with direct access to the bar. Great food, downtown location, community events, live music, 24 taps.

10 PETOSKEY BREWING A four-story century-old brick building that was fittingly a brewhouse in its past life. Sits between two major bike routes: Little Traverse Wheelway and North Western State Trail.

Outdoor seating, full food menu.

11 STIGGS BREWERY & KITCHEN From-scratch food, 30+ taps and wine, cider and cocktails for non-beer drinkers. Outdoor patio with live music.

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Dog friendly Must be leashed, outdoor areas only unless noted.

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12 NICHOLAS BLACK RIVER WINERY Wines produced and bottled in Cheboygan.

Tours welcome, appointments recommended.

Second tasting room located in Mackinaw City (seasonal, not dog friendly).

13 BIÈRE DE MAC BREW WORKS Outdoor seating in the backyard with lawn games. A partnership with Marquette’s Smelted Wood Fired Pizza means you can get a pint and a pie.

13 RUSTED SPOKE BREWING CO. Twenty taps, wine, spirits and a full food menu served up in a rustic atmosphere.

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14 GREAT TURTLE BREWERY & DISTILLERY Right Brain Brewery and Les Cheneaux Distillery provide signature beverages to this Mackinac Island hangout offering lunch and dinner. Dog friendly patio on Hoban Street.

15 NORTHLAND BREWING CO. This Indian River brewery has a beer garden with plenty of yard games, rotating food trucks and an on-site coffee shop.

16 MAMMOTH DISTILLING Hip spot for a craft cocktail in Bay Harbor.

Dogs allowed inside and out. More locations in Traverse City, Bellaire and Central Lake.

17 FOGGY MOUNTAIN SPIRITS COMPANY By-appointment tours and tastings at the Boyne Falls production facility with a retail space. Sold across the state. Find a retailer near you online.

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Must-try restaurants, insider menu recommendations and seasonal recipes: link.mynorth.com/dining

dine al fresco

Longing for a leisurely lunch with lovely view?

Take a table outside at one of these amazing restaurants.

BY OLIVIA FELLOWS AND ELIZABETH EDWARDS

BAY HARBOR INN AT BAY HARBOR 3600 VILLAGE HARBOR DR. | 855.351.4295

At this gracious inn, dine beside Lake Michigan at the Vintage Chophouse, by the golf course at the Bay Harbor Golf Club and poolside at the Cabana Bar. KNOT JUST A BAR 820 FRONT ST. | 231.439.2770

Elevated tavern fare and outdoor seating by the Bay Harbor Lake Marina.

MAPLE + BATTER 4165 MAIN ST. | 231.753.2122

New brunch spot in former Pancake House space with a four-season porch.

FORTY ACRES TAVERN

PIERSON’S GRILLE & SPIRITS

1 BOYNE MOUNTAIN RD. | 231.549.7270

130 STATE ST. | 231.526.2967

Boyne Mountain’s classic slope-side tavern in The Village offers outdoor dining in warm weather.

Burgers and baby back ribs to pizza. Eat in or at the large patio with a view of Little Traverse Bay.

FRIGGY’S SOBO PUB

POLISH KITCHEN

5 E. MAIN ST. | 231.459.4102

8418 M-119 | 231.838.5377

Burgers and classic pub food at this lively bar with a covered patio.

Enjoy pierogis and other Polish dishes on the patio.

GILDAS’ LAKE STREET BAKERY

POND HILL FARM

110 S. LAKE ST. | 231.497.6060

5699 S. LAKE SHORE DR. (M-119) | 231.526.3276

Sidewalk café tables at this authentic French bakery.

Farm-cooked food made from farm-raised produce with plenty of outdoor seating and activities.

LAKE STREET PUB 202 S. LAKE ST. | 231.497.6031

THE LOCAL 795 FRONT ST. | 231.881.9134

Local cuisine, signature cocktails and extensive outside seating by the marina.

A family-friendly pub with comfortable outdoor seating and views of Lake Charlevoix.

Classic Latin American cuisine with a patio just off the downtown.

1 BOYNE MOUNTAIN RD. | 231.549.6085

On the shores of stunning Deer Lake, Boyne Mountain’s Beach House restaurant menu includes steaks and seafood.

BOYNE CITY TAP ROOM

00970 MARINA DR. | 231.582.9900

With views of the marina from the patio, The Strand makes a great stop for both sailors and food lovers.

STATE ROAD PROVISIONS 2983 S. STATE RD. | 231.526.7605

Breakfast, lunch and dinner dine inside or out on tavern-style comfort food.

THE PAPER STATION BISTRO 145 E. MAIN ST. | 231.242.4680

Euro-style bistro with sidewalk dining.

TURKEY’S CAFÉ & PIZZERIA

Inventive tavern fare and a large, shaded patio.

CROSS VILLAGE LEGS INN

CAFE SANTÉ

6425 N. LAKE SHORE DR. | 231.526.2281

Sip Belgian beers and enjoy European classics like wood-fired pizzas, paninis and pastas on either the covered or open-air patios—both with Lake Charlevoix views.

Seafood, steaks and more served on the patio beside Little Traverse Bay.

THE STRAND AT SOMMERSET POINTE

220 S. LAKE ST. | 231.459.4487

1 WATER ST. | 231.582.8800

102 E. BAY ST. | 231.526.6201

RED MESA GRILL 117 WATER ST. | 231.582.0049

BOYNE CITY BEACH HOUSE RESTAURANT

STAFFORD’S PIER RESTAURANT

Dine on housemade Polish cuisine in the outdoor garden at this Northern Michigan icon.

250 E. MAIN ST. | 231.526.6041

Beloved restaurant and ice cream shop with a shaded patio tucked off Main Street.

VERNALES RESTAURANT 3018 M-119 | 231.242.4777

HARBOR SPRINGS SLOPESIDE LOUNGE

This chophouse also has a sports bar, wine bar and patio.

600 HIGHLAND RD. | 855.688.7022

EVERETT’S

Eat slopeside at Boyne Highlands.

COUNTRY CLUB OF BOYNE

MACKINAC ISLAND BISTRO ON THE GREENS & ROUND ISLAND KITCHEN

334 HEATHER DR. | 855.908.9375

MISSION POINT RESORT, LAKESHORE DR. | 906.847.3000

Dine outside at the Seminole Pub.

Fresh, inventive food and views of Round Island lighthouse and Lake Huron from the patios at both of these Mission Point Resort restaurants.

1 BOYNE MOUNTAIN RD. | 231.549.7959

Breakfast, lunch and dinner and a patio.

Located inside Boyne’s Mountain Grand Lodge.

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CARRIAGE HOUSE, HOTEL IROQUOIS

RUSTED SPOKE BREWING CO.

7485 MAIN ST. | 906.847.3321

810 S. HURON AVE. | 231.436.5773

Classic American cuisine and a view of the Straits.

Bar-style comfort food with patio.

SCALAWAGS WHITEFISH & CHIPS

FORT MACKINAC TEA ROOM 7127 HURON RD. | 906.847.6327

Located inside the walls of Fort Mackinac with a spectacular view of the yacht harbor; lunch here is a treat.

GREAT TURTLE BREWERY & DISTILLERY 7452 MAIN ST. | 906.847.0260

Eat on the deck or patio at the island’s only brewery.

ROSE GARDEN VERANDA, STAFFORD’S PERRY HOTEL 100 LEWIS ST. | 231.347.4000

Casual outdoor dining with gardens and lake view.

226 E. CENTRAL AVE. | 231.436.7777

Fish from the Straits and memorable fries.

Outdoor seating in front.

ROSELAWN DINING ROOM, STAFFORD’S BAY VIEW INN 2011 WOODLAND AVE. | 231.347.2771

PETOSKEY THE BACK LOT

Bay-side outdoor dining at a historic inn.

425 MICHIGAN ST. | 231.881.9933

TAP 30

Backyard beer garden and food trucks.

BEACON BISTRO

422 E. MITCHELL ST. | 231.881.9572

Street-side outdoor seating at this shrine to craft beer and great bar food.

319 BAY ST. | 231.489.7999

ICE HOUSE BBQ, ISLAND HOUSE HOTEL 6966 MAIN ST. | 906.847.3347

Home-style smoked barbecue served in the garden or on the deck.

Upscale bistro fare with a newly expanded patio and views of Little Traverse Bay. BEARDS BREWERY

SIDE DOOR SALOON 1200 US-31 | 231.347.9291

A classic saloon-style pub with indoor and outdoor dining.

215 E. LAKE ST. | 231.753.2221

KINGSTON KITCHEN AT THE VILLAGE INN 1384 HOBAN ST. | 906.847.3542

Jamaican-inspired menu with local twists.

Craft beer, elevated bar food and views of Little Traverse Bay from the patio.

3600 VILLAGE HARBOR DR. | 844.366.8986

CHANDLER’S RESTAURANT MARY’S BISTRO DRAUGHT HOUSE 7463 MAIN ST. | 906.847.9911

Pizzas, burgers and a dockside view of the Mackinac Straits.

VINTAGE CHOPHOUSE & WINE BAR, INN AT BAY HARBOR

215 ½ HOWARD ST. | 231.347.2981

Euro-style dining including an intimate patio steps from downtown.

Classic American steakhouse with a wine bar twist and views of Little Traverse Bay from the patio.

CITY PARK GRILL

ST. IGNACE THE GANGPLANK

432 E. LAKE ST. | 231.347.0101

100 S. STATE ST. | 906.643.1500

Kicked-up tavern fare and a sidewalk-side patio at this downtown icon.

The entire dining area of this diner is a covered patio with a waterfront view.

DUFFY’S GARAGE & GRILLE

JOSE’S CANTINA

317 E. LAKE ST. | 231.348.3663

1101 N. STATE ST. | 906.643.1519

A range of beers on tap, pizza, burgers and a patio with a view of Little Traverse Bay.

Award-winning Mexican (fish tacos!) served up beachside.

JULIENNE TOMATOES

JAVA JOE’S CAFE

421 HOWARD ST. | 231.439.9250

959 N. STATE ST. | 906.643.5282

Tequila and BBQ! On Star Line Dock #1.

Beloved eatery that serves breakfast and lunch and offers outdoor seating.

Breakfast like you’ve never had it—enjoy it beachside all day!

THE GATE HOUSE

MIM’S MEDITERRANEAN GRILL

MACKINAC GRILLE

1547 CADOTTE AVE. | 906.847.3772

1823 N. US-31 | 231.348.9994

251 S. STATE ST. | 906.643.7482

Lunch, dinner and outdoor seating with awesome views.

Classic Mediterranean dishes and patio seating.

Whitefish and other classic fare served up with a water view. Outside seating.

THE JOCKEY CLUB AT THE GRAND STAND

PALETTE BISTRO

MI PATIO BAR & GRILLE

1874 CADOTTE AVE. | 906.847.9212

321 BAY ST. | 231.348.3321

30 S. STATE ST. | 906.984.2004

Lunch and dinner spot located at the Jewel Golf Course with a magnificent view of the island.

Mediterranean-inspired dishes, pizza, great wine selection and a large patio.

Whitefish from the Straits, patio views of the Straits.

WATERCOLOR CAFÉ

PETOSKEY BREWING

6939 MAIN ST. | 906.262.0642

1844 M-119 (HARBOR-PETOSKEY RD.) | 231.753.2057

Art studio by night, café by day. Located on the waterfront.

Housed in a brewery built in 1898, find craft beer selections, a menu to match and a lovely patio.

WALLOON LAKE BARREL BACK RESTAURANT

1852 GRILL ROOM, ISLAND HOUSE HOTEL

POUR KITCHEN AND BAR

6966 MAIN ST. | 906.847.7222

422 E. MITCHELL ST. | 231.881.9800

Fine dining with outdoor seating.

Hip, elevated bar menu with a seasonal street-side deck.

MUSTANG LOUNGE 1485 ASTOR ST. | 906.847.9916

Classic fare served up on the covered porch of this historic tavern.

PINK PONY 7221 MAIN ST. | 906.847.3341

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, extensive drink menu and a waterside patio.

SMOKEY JOSE’S 7263 MAIN ST. | 906.847.4066

MACKINAW CITY BIÈRE DE MAC BREW WORKS

4069 M-75 | 231.535.6000

Pasta, ribs, pizza, burgers and a covered deck above Walloon Lake.

WALLOON LAKE INN 4178 WEST ST. | 231.535.2999

Gracious dining in a historic inn with a lovely patio.

14277 MACKINAW HWY. |231.427.7007

Craft beer, woodfired pizza, beer garden with picnic tables and fire pits.

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PHOTO BY CONNOR GRAY

MAKE A DAY OF THE TUNNEL OF TREES Northern Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees on M-119 is one of the state’s most iconic attractions.

The scenic road winds from Harbor Springs, north of Petoskey, to Cross Village.

Along the way, canopies of trees open to reveal gorgeous views of Little Traverse Bay. These stops turn a beautiful drive into an event.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

STOP 1: AHRENS GALLERY AND STUDIO A working studio and outbuildings filled with art in a scenic setting on Lake Street, just off of M-119. neilahrens.com STOP 2: THORNE SWIFT PRESERVE Lollygag on the beach (950 feet of Lake Michigan shoreline) and take short hikes through the woods at this preserve. You’ll want to work up a good appetite for your next stop. landtrust.org STOP 3: POND HILL FARM Find Pond Hill Farm about two miles beyond Thorne Swift, on the right. This family-owned operation has a market with their farm-grown produce along with a vineyard, winery and brewery. Pond Hill’s Garden Cafe makes a wonderful lunch stop, too. pondhill.com STOP 4: BROKEN BUDDHA TEA Tea, coffee, art and music tucked into the Tunnel of Trees. Bliss. 231.412.7774 STOP 5: HOOGLAND FAMILY NATURE PRESERVE Walk off that lunch (and those drinks!) just up the road on the 1.5-mile looped trail that winds through some of this 100-acre preserve. landtrust.org STOP 6: MIDDLE VILLAGE PARK Take a quick dip in the lake at the park’s beach. The trail behind historic St. Ignatius Church features an observation deck and easy access to the quiet little public swim spot.

STOP 7: GOOD HART The Good Hart General Store’s pot pies and chocolate chip cookies are memorable (goodhartstore.com). Next door, stop by Good Hart and Soul Tea Room and find rustic furnishings at Primitive Images (primitiveimages.com). Then it’s on to A Studio Shop for gifts and home accessories (astudioshop.com).

Have you ever seen the Tunnel of Trees in fall? Check out our guide to M-119, including a gorgeous flyover video. link.mynorth.com/tunneltreesguide

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STOP 8: CROSS VILLAGE M-119 continues north for seven miles before ending at Cross Village and county road C-77, also known as State Road. Take State about a block to the corner of Levering Road to find Three Pines Studio (threepinesstudio.com). This art gallery features the work of more than 40 Northern Michigan artists and offers classes and workshops. Outside, you’ll find a beautiful sculpture garden. Nearby, browse home goods, apparel and gifts at Peninsulas (shoppeninsulas.com). And last but not to be missed is the famous Legs Inn (legsinn.com) featuring authentic Polish food. The historic restaurant sits on a bluff overlooking Lake Michigan—catch a sunset and visit the garden.

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For all your familyʼs adventures

Dry Harbor:

Prohibition, Gambling and Gangsters in Harbor Springs

HARBOR SPRINGS HISTORY MUSEUM 349 E Main St | Harbor Springs, Michigan

harborspringshistory.org

321 E. Lake Street • Petoskey (231) 439-9500 www. bearcuboutfitters.com Enhance Your Home with a

Residential Elevator

The only thing we overlook is Lake Superior.

Whether renovating or building new, we can easily incorporate an elevator into your home!

Serving Michigan for over 69 Years

(1-800-626-2559)

Tom McNally

119 Studio | Artist Studio/Gallery Store 66 Guest Rooms and Suites Crow’s Nest Cocktail Lounge Northland Gastropub

230 North Front Street, Marquette, MI 49855 Reservations/Information: 906-228-2580 www.thelandmarkinn.com

With over 30 years experience, Anita Cousino specializes in Custom Portraiture, Artistic Photography, and Special Events! Custom photo sessions for vacation homes, Pet Portraits and more!

Come in to the Gallery for local art and photographs featuring Northern Michigan's most loved views!

690 State Street, Harbor Springs, MI | 231-340-1007 north119studio@gmail.com | the119studio.com

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CHARLEVOIX

& CHAIN OF LAKES ALDEN ∙ BEAVER ISLAND ∙ BELLAIRE ∙ CENTRAL LAKE ∙ CHARLEVOIX EAST JORDAN ∙ ELK RAPIDS ∙ ELLSWORTH ∙ GAYLORD ∙ GRAYLING ∙ TORCH LAKE

Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse

Vacation!

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EXPERIENCE THE CLASSIC BEAUTY OF

C H A R L E VO I X !

BEST 25 THINGS TO DO IN CHARLEVOIX

MORE INFO AT DOWNTOWNCHARLEVOIX.COM

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1. Watch the sunrise over Round Lake from a bench in East Park 2. Attend the Charlevoix Farmers Market 3. Rent bikes 4. Grab a coffee & light bite at Café Meria 5. Play chess in Hoop Skirt Alley 6. Experience local art at Charlevoix Circle of Arts 7. Visit the Harsha House Museum 8. Shop at The Clothing Company for brands that suit the Up North lifestyle 9. Stroll Bridge Street to enjoy countless shops 10. Search for all the Magical Tiny Doors in town 11. Watch the bridge go up 12. Take a Mushroom House Tour & visit over 26 houses built by Earl Young 13. Feed the fish in the Trout Pond in East Park 14. Take the kids to the Splash Pad at the Marina 15. Attend a Live on the Lake concert at the bandshell 16. Have lunch or dinner at Bridge Street Tap Room 17. Visit the Charlevoix Library to borrow a hammock 18. Relax at the Pine River Hammock Park 19. Discover the history of Charlevoix by finding all the historical signs 20. Load up on taffy + other confections at The Taffy Barrel 21. Walk the pier and visit the lighthouse 22. Find a Petoskey stone at Michigan Beach Park 23. Watch the sunset over Lake Michigan 24. Ride the ferry with Beaver Island Boat Company 25. Take an evening stroll to enjoy the lights on the trees and bridge

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BE HERE AT SUNSET! COVER PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER // THIS PAGE BY TESS CROWLEY

elk rapids grace memorial harbor

From Elk Rapids to Charlevoix, five great seats for the greatest show on Earth.

ELK RAPIDS GRACE MEMORIAL HARBOR

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

2 GRANT ST., CHARLEVOIX

129 CEDAR ST., ELK RAPIDS

There’s nothing quite like watching the sun drip color into the water where sailboats bob. Find that scene splashed across this harbor on summer evenings. Stroll the walkway or nab your place in the sand on one of the two public beaches tucked on each side of the marina.

CHARLEVOIX SOUTH PIER LIGHTHOUSE Strolling the pier to watch the sun splash down into Lake Michigan is a Charlevoix tradition. Park at the public Lake Michigan beach parking lot.

DOCKSIDE TORCH LAKE 6340 OLD TORCH LAKE DR., BELLAIRE

Come by boat or car, but be there in time to order up a beverage and find your seat on the deck of this Torch Lake gathering place to watch the sun melt into the water like a bowl of spumoni.

Cruise “The Breezeway,” a gorgeous 26-mile road trip through Antrim and Charlevoix counties, then cap it off with a sunset: link.mynorth.com/breezeway

CHARLES A. RANSOM NATURE PRESERVE MAPLE GROVE RD., CHARLEVOIX

Catch the orb slipping into the horizon while you stand 320 feet above Lake Michigan on the trailhead of this preserve owned by the Little Traverse Conservancy.

BARNES PARK 12298 BARNES PARK RD., EASTPORT

This has to be one of the most spectacular county-owned parks (and campgrounds) anywhere.

Find a quarter-mile of pristine Lake Michigan beach—that faces due west. Sublime.

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Northern Michigan Delivered

Enjoy a “trip” Up North all year long!

Print subscriptions starting at $29.95!

MyNorth.com/Subscribe

Traverse

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CRUISE THE CHAIN OF LAKES Pack your sunscreen, swimsuit and a cooler, then float a summer day away.

PHOTO BY KELLY REWA

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

Elk Lake, Torch Lake and Lake Bellaire are all connected by rivers and smaller lakes in a waterway known as the Chain of Lakes. Happily, the Chain is navigable by pontoon or similar watercraft. Spend the day tubing and enjoying other watersports on these deep-blue lakes, or putz along taking in the shoreline view. Tying up at the Dockside on Torch Lake for a burger and a beer is always a popular activity. Don’t have a pontoon? Dockside can rent you one. docksidetorchlake.com Find more ways to experience the Chain (like paddling!): link.mynorth.com/chainoflakes

OTHER MARINAS THAT CAN SET YOU UP FOR A CHAIN OF LAKES TRIP: Elk Rapids Marina, Elk Rapids, elkrapidsmarina.com Dewitt Marine, Bellaire, dewittmarine.com Riverside Marina, Bellaire, riverside-marina.net 2022 MYNORTH

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& CHA IN O FL A

charlevoix

CHAR L

X I O EV S KE CHARLEVOIX

Lake C harlevoi

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PHOTO BY TESS CROWLEY

PHOTO BY KELLY REWA

elk rapids

Wall oon L

ake

ELLSWORTH EAST JORDAN CENTRAL LAKE

Torch Lake

ellsworth

GAYLORD

BELLAIRE

GRAYLING

ELK RAPIDS

PHOTO BY TESS CROWLEY

PHOTO BY TESS CROWLEY

ALDEN

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east jordan

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small towns big charm This region of lakes, rivers, forests and old-fashioned downtowns is made for vacations.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

ALDEN

Lovely little Alden on Torch Lake is filled with boutiques, cafés, a specialty spice store, an old-fashioned general store and even a wine bar. A sandy-bottomed swimming area on Torch Lake is adjacent to the downtown boat launch. Raise a glass to a great collection of Northern Michigan craft brews at Torch Lake Beer Co.

BELLAIRE

The grand old Antrim County Courthouse presides over this charming town that straddles the banks of the Intermediate River and sits between Lake Bellaire and Intermediate Lake—so yes, think fabulous watersports. Find a lively shopping district and four-season Shanty Creek Resort here. For a small town, the nightlife is hopping with Short’s Brewing Company, Hello Vino wine bar, Mammoth Distilling and Bee Well Mead & Cider.

CENTRAL LAKE

This sweet town, located where Hanley Lake meets Intermediate Lake under the bridge, has an Up North vibe—kicked up when Mammoth Distilling opened its doors several years ago. Don’t miss a meal at the stately Blue Pelican Inn—better yet, get a room there.

CHARLEVOIX

The fabulous downtown on Lake Charlevoix is brimming with galleries, boutiques and great restaurants. East Park is a hub of outdoor concerts, festivals and farmers markets. With Lake Michigan on one side and Round Lake on the other, stunning beaches and a first-class marina, this city is for water worshippers. Watching boats pass under the drawbridge is a major pastime here, as is drinking great craft beer in front of a stellar Lake Charlevoix view at Bridge Street Tap Room.

EAST JORDAN

With a bounty of Lake Charlevoix and Jordan River shoreline, this lovely city combines outdoor sports with fun downtown shops and eateries.

Check out the new Jordan Art Walk along city streets, featuring sculptures created by local artists, then grab a bite and a brew at Foundry Bar & Grill.

ELK RAPIDS

Wedged between Elk Lake and Lake Michigan, this town is a spot of heaven. Find your place on a golden-sand Lake Michigan beach, check out the boats in the 270-slip marina, browse the boutiques and galleries downtown, explore one of the North’s most beautiful library settings, then fill up at one of this town’s awesome eateries—including the new American House Wood Fired Pizza.

ELLSWORTH

Tucked on the northern-most point of the Chain of Lakes, this charmer of a village on Ellsworth Lake has a public park with a fishing pier, labyrinth garden and Michigan’s largest public archery range. It also sits at the tip of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail, a 100-mile inland water trail for paddlers, with 84 access sites, a map, restrooms, dining and more along the route.

GAYLORD

This inviting town is the gateway for viewing the elk that roam the Pigeon River Country State Forest. Find a fun alpine vibe thanks to Gaylord’s relationship with twin town Pontresina, Switzerland. With four-season resorts Otsego and Treetops, and surrounded by more than 100,000 acres of state forest, Gaylord is an outdoor sports paradise. Two breweries (Snowbelt Brewing Co. and Big Buck Brewery) and a handful of intimate pubs make the day’s end part of the adventure.

GRAYLING

With an abundance of public land and headwaters for the Au Sable and Manistee rivers, Grayling is a four-season outdoor sports hub. The stand of virgin white and red pine forest at Hartwick Pines State Park and the annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon are standout attractions. Paddle Hard Brewing jibes with classic eat/drink spots like Spike’s Keg O Nails, dubbed “the meeting place of the North.”

Discover an array of things to do at each of these uniquely northern towns: link.mynorth.com/towns. For a complete list of restaurants, lodging, shopping and more, head to: link.mynorth.com/directory.

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Explore Our Color! www.downtowngrayling.com/visit 1.

2.

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4.

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1. Pick up a hand crafted pastry and delicious cup of coffee from Coffee by Steph. 2. Belly up to the bar rail at Spike’s Keg-O-Nails, home of the famous Spike Burger. 3. Paddle Hard is where you can find deliciously creative flatbreads, paninis and 28 taps to choose from. 4. A soon-to-be relaxing place to grab a beer and enjoy some fresh air is the Paddle Hard Yard. 5. The Curator & Repair Shop has anything you could need for gifts, whether it’s for someone else or yourself. 6. Michigan Brew provides a wonderful atmosphere for coffee, cocktails, and cuisine, all either Michigan made or with

7. Stop by AuSable Gifts for the perfect Grayling souvenir, like beautifully crafted polish pottery to toys for the kiddos. 8. The AuSable Artisan Village is home to a 40+ artist gallery, live concerts, and tons of class offerings. 9. Grayling Restaurant is a must-see highlight of any trip

Michigan roots.

to Grayling, with a menu ranging from classic diner breakfasts to delicious salads, sandwiches and

10. Take a float down the AuSable River in one of Borchers Kayaks or canoes, and sleep comfortably in their Riverside Bed and Breakfast. 11. Whether you paddle,

home made soups for lunch.

peddle or pound the trails, make Northbound Outfitters your first stop for any of your gear needs.

Make sure you don’t miss out on a fantastic lunch at the NBO Food Truck, either.

12. Tip’n the

Mitten is the best shop downtown to find all sorts of unique Michigan Made products as well as a fresh cup of coffee, an ice cream cone, or score a new favorite Michigan wine or craft beer.

• Hanson Hills and Hartwick Pines are the places to find well maintained trails for all levels for outdoor activity and memory making • The Crawford County Historical Society will take you back through the area’s history • Wellington Farms, there is fun for all ages, including a petting farm!

• The last week of July hosts the AuSable River Festival with a large arts & crafts show in the city park, food trucks and a beer tent with live entertainment and the annual AuSable River Canoe Marathon • Take the kiddos to the city park right off of the business loop to blow off some steam and enjoy the river view.

• Downtown Grayling is home to Brew Avenue, Grayling’s Social District, allowing patrons to grab a drink and take it for a walk around downtown.

• Grayling Promotional Association brings your JUNK IN THE TRUNK and it happens every Memorial and Labor Day weekend - stop by and find a new treasure!

• Join Grayling Main Street and The Grayling Heritage Committee on June 10 for their downtown Block party, celebrating their new city clock installation and 150 years of being a community.

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beaches

INSIDER'S

PHOTO BY TESS CROWLEY

Your guide to more gorgeous beaches: link.mynorth.com/charlevoixbeaches

The Charlevoix/Chain of Lakes region is filled with an array of beaches, from hideaway spots to places near downtown amenities. Start planning your beach day here!

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

MICHIGAN BEACH PARK, CHARLEVOIX

There’s something for everyone in the family at this in-town Lake Michigan beach. Enjoy a sandy beach, swim area, great rock hunting, playground, volleyball, pavilion and concessions—all within walking distance of downtown Charlevoix. visitcharlevoix.com

DEPOT BEACH, CHARLEVOIX

Located next to a historic train depot, Depot Beach on Lake Charlevoix is outfitted with paddleboard rentals, a pavilion and restrooms. visitcharlevoix.com

RICHARDI PARK, BELLAIRE

Here you’ll enjoy a sandy swimming area, grills, picnic tables, a pavilion, ice cream cones and other summer treats close at hand in downtown Bellaire. bellairechamber.org

TORCH LAKE TOWNSHIP DAY PARK, EASTPORT

The little hamlet of Eastport, at the crossroads of US-31 and M-88, boasts Torch Lake’s only two public swim areas. Find a pavilion, picnic tables, grills, swimming area and boat access at Torch Lake Township Park south of town on US-31. www.antrimcounty.org

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ELK RAPIDS DAY PARK, ELK RAPIDS

This Elk Rapids favorite offers big sand, wide Lake Michigan views and every amenity a beach can have, including darling Elk Rapids close by. elkrapidschamber.org

ANTRIM CREEK NATURAL AREA, ATWOOD

This mile-long Lake Michigan beach, found just west of Atwood, lies at the end of Rex Beach Road and down a two-track. Walk south along the beach to find where Antrim Creek spills into the big lake. gtrlc.org

BARNES PARK, EASTPORT

Enjoy a quarter-mile of pristine Lake Michigan beach and camping. antrimcounty.org/barnespark.asp

MT. MCSAUBA RECREATIONAL AREA, CHARLEVOIX

This sandy beach on Lake Michigan is threaded with spectacular views, hidden dunes and beautiful hiking trails. visitcharlevoix.com

ELM POINTE PARK, EAST JORDAN

Elm Pointe Park boasts 11 acres with frontage on the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix and Monroe Creek. eastjordancity.org

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clothing • home decor • gifts

barnes park

downtown Bellaire open 7 days and year round 231.533.4630 uniquelynorth.com

michigan beach park

Lindy Bishop - Green Apples 40 x 60 Acrylic

In the heart of it all... start your vacation at Twisted Fish.

PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER

Come explore what Northern Michigan creativity is all about.

Twisted Fish Gallery Elk Rapids, MI www.twistedfishgallery.com 231 264 0123

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sip

Find a spot to grab a bite and treat your designated driver to a latte: link.mynorth.com/dining

like a local

townline ciderworks

Explore the North’s buzzing craft beverage scene.

BY CARLY SIMPSON

1 WHISKEY POINT BREWING COMPANY Brewed on Beaver Island has a nice ring to it.

As does Michigan’s first island brewery. Beer, fruit wines, spritzers and a gorgeous view of St. James Harbor.

6 THE CELLARS OF ROYAL FARMS A pretty red-and-white farm market with wine and cider tasting overlooking the vineyard (patio seating, too). Don’t leave without a homemade pie.

9 VISTA RIDGE VINEYARDS Dock your boat at Alden’s boat ramp on Torch Lake then walk 400 feet to this downtown tasting room. Shops and ice cream nearby. Deck seating available.

2 SPARE KEY WINERY The covered porch sits just a few steps from the vineyard, where leashed dogs and their owners are welcome to walk, at this familyowned winery.

7 CELLAR 1914 Laid-back tasting room just north of Torch Lake on a 1,100-acre centennial farm. Stay the night at “The Vineyard View Farmhouse” or “The Farm Lifestyle” house; book via Airbnb.

10 MAMMOTH DISTILLING, BELLAIRE The classics are served up alongside creative craft cocktails in this comfy hangout in downtown Bellaire. More locations in Traverse City, Bay Harbor and Central Lake.

3 CHERRY REPUBLIC The destination for all things cherry in downtown Charlevoix, including cherry wines (and sodas for the littles).

8 TORCH LAKE CELLARS The kids can play ping pong out back while you relax at this rustic-style tasting room with outdoor patio seating.

11 MAMMOTH DISTILLING, CENTRAL LAKE A 100-year-old brick building on Main Street with concrete counters and reclaimed barn wood. Patio seating, too.

4 1918 CELLARS BISTRO & WINE TASTING ROOM One-of-a-kind tasting room located in the Queen’s Tavern at Castle Farms; built in 1918 and modeled after the stone barns and castles of Normandy, France. Indoor and patio seating.

8 BEE WELL MEAD & CIDER A barn-inspired setting with a welcoming interior offering flagship and limited-edition tasting room–only beverages. An outdoor area along the side of the building is dog friendly and shared among several businesses.

12 WATERFIRE VINEYARDS Certified Sustainable vineyard with an intimate tasting room and deck. Book the one-bedroom private vineyard retreat via Airbnb and sleep among the vines.

5 BIER’S INWOOD BREWERY White Victorian home turned brewery with 18 taps, live music and a large lawn. Next door, visit Pizza Girl then Bier Art Gallery & Pottery Studio.

8 SHORT’S BREWING COMPANY The one and only. Bold brews and good eats served in a renovated 120-year-old hardware store with an outdoor biergarten and “brewtique” beer market.

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13 SHORT’S BREWING, THE PULL BARN This Elk Rapids outpost has indoor and outdoor seating with an on-site food truck.

13 ETHANOLOGY Artful cocktails made with hyperlocal ingredients. Expansive, beautifully designed courtyard with shaded garden areas and firepits.

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BEAVER ISLAND

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13 BOS WINE GARDEN A restored 1920s farmhouse with a homey interior and outdoor seating in the garden.

Biodynamic wine tasting experiences—one with curated food pairings and one without.

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PHOTO BY KELLY REWA

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14 SNOWBELT BREWING CO. Fun food menu (think loaded tots, grown-up grilled cheese) and craft brews. Garage doors open to outdoor seating.

14 BIG BUCK BREWERY You can expect “big brews, big tastes and big stuffed heads on the wall.” And a big friendly Northern Michigan attitude. Live music, patio seating.

15 ROLLING OAK BREWING CO. Sit inside the century-old ice house or grab a spot outdoors. Outside food welcome, or order delivery.

Torch Lake

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13 TOWNLINE CIDERWORKS Cidergarden and open-air lawn seating with views of the orchards where the apples in your glass were grown. Live music.

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15 PADDLE HARD BREWING Rustic, urban vibes with barn wood walls and corrugated steel. Fab food. Patio seating in the heart of downtown Grayling.

Dog friendly Must be leashed, outdoor areas only unless noted.

16 DEAD BEAR BREWING CO. Lodge-like setting with 21 rotating taps and hearty tavern fare. Patio seating.

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Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites • Only rated hotel in downtown Charlevoix • Free continental breakfast • Walking distance to downtown shopping and restaurants • Indoor hot tubs and fireplaces • Some balconies with views of lake or bridge • Free high speed fiber internet.

smoked and fresh fish

we pack for travel

smoked sausage

209 Belvedere Avenue

pate and seafood

231-547-2532

CHARLEVOIX

SPECIALIZING IN WOMEN'S CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES, AND UNIQUE GIFTS 205 Bridge St. Charlevoix 231.437.3966 thistlestyle.com

www.weathervane-chx.com • info@weathervane-chx.com 111 Pine River Ln., Charlevoix • 231.547.9955

masks required & hand sanitizing stations in store

MICHIGAN 49720

The Home of Pepper Mill Spices Famous custom blended seasonings of the highest quality pepper & spices.

Kitchen & Pantry Accessories, Decor, Gifts, Custom Gift Baskets MYNORTHTICKETS.COM 800.836.0717

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Learn more about paddling the Chain: link.mynorth.com/ chainoflakes

CRUISE OR

paddle?

By water or by road, The Breezeway and the Chain of Lakes take you into the heart of the beautiful, bucolic Charlevoix-Antrim area.

BY KANDACE CHAPPLE AND ELIZABETH EDWARDS

CHAIN OF LAKES AND THE PADDLE ANTRIM FESTIVAL

This bounty of fresh water begins in tiny Beal Lake near the town of Central Lake and empties into Lake Michigan’s East Grand Traverse Bay, a hundred watery miles later. Along the way, the Chain turns into lakes (12 of them) that range from big (Torch) to small (Toad), and rivers and creeks.

The Chain is divided into Upper and Lower sections by a dam in the town of Bellaire. The lower section is generally regarded as better for larger boats since it is made up of larger lakes. The shallower, narrower waterways of the Upper Chain are perfect for paddling.

PHOTO BY KELLY REWA

The annual Paddle Antrim Festival, held the second weekend after Labor Day (Sept. 15-17, 2022), celebrates the Chain while helping paddlers access the waterway by providing maps, shuttles and even food. (But, you can paddle the Chain all summer long via the Chain of Lakes Water Trail.)

Ellie Kirkpatrick, marketing and outreach specialist for Paddle Antrim (paddleantrim.com), offers tips for making the most of the Paddle Antrim Festival: • Choose your own adventure. Paddle one or two days and decide how far you want to go with convenient exits throughout the route.

• Be prepared for changing conditions. Dress for the water temperature and bring layers.

• The first day begins in the Upper Chain with a series of small calm lakes, perfect for recreational or beginner paddlers.

• During the second day in the Lower Chain, paddlers can explore up to five lakes and two rivers, including the tranquil Grass River Natural Area and Caribbean blue Torch Lake.

• Events, live music, local eats and beverages are open to paddlers and the public all weekend long.

Cruise 'The Breezeway’ Aka C-48, The Breezeway winds 26 miles from Atwood (tucked on US-31) to Ellsworth, through East Jordan and ending in Boyne Falls (at US-131). The road cuts through a part of Michigan that is mostly untouched. Rolling hills, working farms and country homes set the scene, while the four breezeway towns offer the rest: antique stores, artists’ galleries, shopping, restaurants and more. Along the way, you’ll pass parts of the Chain of Lakes as well as nature preserves begging to be hiked.

An in-depth look at what you’ll discover along The Breezeway: link.mynorth.com/breezeway

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Must-try restaurants, insider menu recommendations and seasonal recipes: link.mynorth.com/dining

dine al fresco

Dining outside on a beautiful day with a stunning view is a vacation in itself. Here’s your go-to list for the perfect mini getaway!

BY OLIVIA FELLOWS AND ELIZABETH EDWARDS

ALDEN BLUEWATER BISTRO & PIZZERIA 11921 S.E. TORCH LAKE DR. | 231.331.6262

Pizza, pasta, seafood and more with a fab patio.

DOCKSIDE TORCH LAKE 6340 OLD TORCH LAKE DR. | 231.377.7777

Pull your boat up (or not!), grab a seat on their Torch Lake-side deck and tuck into classic Mexican and American tavern fare.

CENTRAL LAKE THE BLUE PELICAN INN & RESTAURANT 2535 MAIN ST. | 231.544.2583

A something-for-everyone menu and a lively tiki bar.

TORCH LAKE BEER CO. HELLO VINO

TORCH LAKE CAFÉ

122 N. BRIDGE ST. | 231.350.7138

4990 US-31 | 231.599.1111

Inventive food pairings with a wide-ranging wine list. Outdoor seating.

Pizzas to full dinners, great live music and plenty of patio space.

BEAVER ISLAND CIRCLE M BAR & RESTAURANT

LUNCH BOX

TOUCH OF CLASS CAFE & BAKERY

26300 OLD CHURCH CREST RD. | 231.448.2513

106 E. CAYUGA ST. | 231.533.6678

2379 S. MAIN ST. | 231.544.2400

Historic island landmark now family-friendly restaurant serving burgers, seafood, steaks.

Small patio.

Great breakfasts, legendary sandwiches.

Sidewalk tables.

Breakfasts and lunches that range from fish fry to burgers and soup. Sidewalk tables.

M88 MORNING GRIND

CHARLEVOIX BRIDGE STREET TAPROOM

9149 HELENA RD. | 231.331.6214

Burgers, Mexican and pizza and patio. Located across from the Torch Lake boat launch.

DALWHINNIE BAKERY & DELI 38240 MICHIGAN AVE. | 231.448.2736

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner since 1997, plus pastries, doughnuts and espresso. Handful of picnic tables outdoors.

614 E. CAYUGA ST. | 231.350.7011

Great local coffee shop with baked goods (quiche!) and a charming covered patio.

SARDUCCI’S CREEKSIDE

202 BRIDGE ST. | 231.437.3466

Take a seat overlooking Round Lake and order from 32 beer taps and an American bistro-style menu.

5692 SHANTY CREEK RD. | 231.533.7080

BEAVER ISLAND LODGE AND SUNSET RESTAURANT

Authentic Italian, great ribs and outdoor seating.

38210 BEAVER LODGE DR. | 231.448.2396

French cuisine and regional specialties in a casually elegant setting. Patio seating with sunset views.

SHORT’S BREWING COMPANY 121 N. BRIDGE ST. | 231.498.2300

Famous for its craft beer, Short’s serves kicked-up bar food—eat outside or in.

SHAMROCK BAR & RESTAURANT 26245 MAIN ST. | 231.448.2278

The island’s oldest pub. Patio with Paradise Bay views. Regular live entertainment.

Craft beer, wine and snacks with sidewalk seating and a terrific view of Paradise Bay.

213 N. BRIDGE ST. | 231.350.7301

Carefully crafted farm-to-table dining with outdoor seating.

Dinners Tuesday thru Saturday on the patio, weather permitting. Purveyor of fine food and wine.

GREY GABLES RESTAURANT & CATERING Gracious old house-turned restaurant with views of Round Lake and lovely outdoor seating area.

PIGS EATIN’ RIBS

THE PELICAN’S NEST 5085 SHANTY CREEK RD. | 231.533.9000

Sport’s bar with great food. Outdoor seating and a sand pit for kids.

BELLAIRE CORNER BISTRO

THE SHANTY BAR & GRILL

102 N. BRIDGE ST. | 231.409.7088

5820 SHANTY CREEK RD. | 231.533.7025

True bistro fare and patio.

Elevated tavern food and outdoor seating.

TOONIES FISH & STEAKHOUSE 216 N. BRIDGE ST. | 231.533.8513

Breakfast, lunch and dinner menus that offer something for everyone. Outdoor seating.

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12853 US-31 N. | 231.237.9300

308 BELVEDERE AVE. | 231.547.9261

TERRAIN

WHISKEY POINT BREWING CO. 38230 MICHIGAN AVE. | 231.448.2112

ESPERANCE

1418 BRIDGE ST. | 231.547.7447

The street-side patio at this award-winning BBQ-joint gives you plenty of elbow room to dig in.

STAFFORD’S WEATHERVANE RESTAURANT 106 PINE RIVER LN. | 231.547.4311

Located on the Round Lake Channel, this iconic restaurant has incredible views of passing boats.

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THE ARGONNE HOUSE 11929 BOYNE CITY RD. | 231.547.9331

Make a reservation for the large patio and dine on seafood, steaks and wood-fired pizzas served up with a Lake Charlevoix view.

GAYLORD AH-LOY BAMBOO 200 W. MAIN ST. | 989.732.4160

Order up Thai and Chinese entrées and enjoy on the sidewalk patio.

SNOWBELT BREWING CO. 132 W. MAIN ST. | 989.448.7077

Downtown hangout with inventive food menu, craft beer and a sidewalk patio.

THE IRON PIG SMOKEHOUSE

THE CANTINA – TACOS & TEQUILA

ALPINE TAVERN & EATERY

101 VAN PELT PLACE | 231.437.3612

202 S. OTSEGO AVE. | 989.732.5444

Authentic Mexican with a large outdoor eating space tucked just off the downtown.

Stuffed burgers, craft brews and a fun place to watch the big game. Enclosed patio seating, too.

THE LANDING 10231 FERRY RD. | 231.547.9036

Dock your boat at this relaxed Lake Charlevoix restaurant and take a table on the spacious deck for lunch or dinner.

THE VILLAGER PUB

EAST JORDAN FOUNDRY BAR & GRILL 101 MAIN ST. | 231.649.0006

Elevated pub eats. Large garage doors open to spacious patio.

BBQ, burgers and comfort food along with a full bar and patio.

THE LOGMARK AT OTSEGO RESORT 696 M-32 EAST | 989.732.5181

BENNETHUM’S NORTHERN INN 3917 OLD US HIGHWAY 27 S. | 989.732.9288

Longtime dining destination with classic steak and seafood, monthly global dishes and regional-inspired fare. Beautiful patio and backyard seating.

427 BRIDGE ST. | 231.547.6925

’50s-themed tavern/comfort food dining with sidewalk seating area.

143 W. MAIN ST. | 989.448.2065

The perfect spot for a nightcap and a game of pool.

THE SPORTS BAR AT TREETOPS RESORT 3962 WILKINSON RD. | 989.731.8452

Browse the beer list and enjoy a great view of the surrounding hillside.

BIG BUCK BREWERY 550 S. WISCONSIN AVE. | 989.448.7072

Big brews, big tastes, big stuffed heads on the wall. And a nice patio.

CRAVE

GRAYLING DEAD BEAR BREWING CO. 2552 SOUTH I-75 BUSINESS LOOP | 989.745.6289

Brewery and restaurant with roomy covered patio.

148 W. MAIN ST. | 989.748.4848

A pub with pasta, pizza and a sidewalk patio.

GATES AU SABLE LODGE 471 S. STEPHAN BRIDGE RD. | 989.348.8462

LAS MARACAS

DUCK BLIND GRILLE AT OTSEGO RESORT

113 MAIN ST. | 231.222.2092

696 M-32 EAST | 989.732.5181

Mexican with outdoor seating.

Sandwiches, starters and dinner entrées.

Plus a 27-mile view.

ELK RAPIDS AMERICAN HOUSE WOOD-FIRED PIZZA

EL PATRON GRILL

151 RIVER ST. | 231.264.6062

216 W. MAIN ST. | 989.448.2753

Gourmet wood-fired pizzas and way more with a covered patio.

Mexican eatery with a colorful interior and patio out back.

CELLAR 152

FOOD N STUFF

152 RIVER ST. | 231.264.9000

902 N. CENTER AVE. | 989.448.2499

Euro-feeling menu with dining on the back deck and sidewalk.

Hearty sandwiches, salads, pizzas and breakfast items.

From-scratch breakfast, lunch and dinner served beside the river.

GRAY ROCK PUB & GRUB 2123 INDUSTRIAL DR. | 989.348.5181

Weekend breakfast, pizza, burgers and more pub classics. Outdoor patio.

MICHIGAN BREW 106 E. MICHIGAN AVE. | 989.348.2739

Coffee, cocktails, cider, beer, wine, brunch and lunch. Patio with outdoor seating.

PADDLE HARD BREWING 227 MICHIGAN AVE. | 989.745.6388

PEARLS NEW ORLEANS KITCHEN

GREYSTONE COFFEE COMPANY

617 AMES ST. | 231.264.0530

127 W. MAIN ST. | 989.448.8027

New Orleans of the north with a covered patio for dining and a porch for drinks.

A spot for your morning coffee, lunch or an afternoon snack.

RIVERWALK GRILL & TAPROOM

MARY’S STEIN HAUS

106 AMES ST. | 231.264.0377

330 W. MAIN ST. | 989.448.8330

Craft beer, seafood and grill fare and a waterside deck.

Alpine-inspired German American restaurant with a charming downtown patio.

THE LOCAL

MICHAYWÉ INN THE WOODS

145 AMES ST. | 231.498.2190

1535 OPAL LAKE RD. | 989.939.8800

Inventive breakfast and lunch menu with a cheery patio.

Northwoods views and casual dining.

Rustic, urban brewpub with pizzas, panini, tacos and a sidewalk patio.

RAY’S BBQ, BREWS & BLUES 204 INGHAM ST. | 989.348.1515

Barbecue and craft beer on the banks of the Au Sable River.

TINKER’S JUNCTION 6811 W. M-72 | 989.344.1760

WEST SIDE DINER PINE SQUIRREL BAR & GRILL

ELLSWORTH GOLD NUGGET BAR & GRILL 6513 CENTER ST. | 231.588.6023

Full lunch and dinner menu. Beer garden with a patio bar and umbrella-covered seating.

1600 S. OTSEGO AVE. | 989.448.2771

Family-friendly dining with a patio, tiki bar and softball field (yep!).

10445 N. US-31 | 231.599.3222

Farm market, winery, baked goods, lunch offerings with patio and covered tent seating.

6301 W. M-72 | 989.344.0710

Homey spot with covered patio.

WIMPY’S 6415 W. M-72 | 989.344.1918

PORTER HAUS 3885 OLD US HIGHWAY 27 S. | 989.448.7444

ROYAL FARMS

Casual dining with live music, full-service bar, volleyball court, corn hole, patio.

A classic bar and restaurant with steaks and burgers.

Broasted chicken, burgers, hot dogs, fish and ice cream in a barn-style eatery with a small patio.

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See the magic of Beaver Island glamping (then book your tent!): link.mynorth.com/glamping

paradise bay

THINGS

TO

DO

beaver island

Lake Michigan’s largest and most remote inhabited isle is waiting with outdoor adventures, fascinating history lessons and so much more. The 32-mile journey from Charlevoix across open water is worth the trip.

ON

5. Mountain or fat tire bike... ...from horizon to horizon over Beaver’s quiet and scenic dirt roads.

Pavement runs out five miles outside of the town of St. James. Happy Paddle can outfit you with bikes. happypaddle.com 6. Raise a beer... ...to this island’s Irish soul (its moniker is the Great Lakes’ Emerald Isle) at the Shamrock Bar & Restaurant. beaverislandrestaurants.com

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

7. Play in the surf and turf.

Rent a paddleboard, jet ski, pontoon or ATV. beaverislandboatrentals.com

1. Go glamping.

Beaver Island Retreat can put you up in a 180-square-foot safari tent with a lux interior. beaverislandretreat.com

8. Snorkel or scuba dive.

Let Paradise Bay Boat Charters take you to the sunken treasures that surround the island. paradisebaydiveshop.com

2. Kayak Paradise Bay. If you are a novice paddler, stay in the bay. Experienced? Take on the 42-mile Beaver Island Water Trail that circumnavigates the island.

Happy Paddle is happy to outfit you. happypaddle.com

9. Believe it! Beaver Island once had a king.

James Strang, a Mormon renegade, set up a colony on the island in the 1800s and had himself crowned. Stop by the Mormon Print Shop (now the Beaver Island Historical Museum) to find out more. beaverislandhistory.org

3. Climb the 46 wrought iron steps… …of the lonesome and lovely Beaver Island Head Light tower. Built in 1858, the lighthouse sits 20 miles from the town hub in St. James— an adventure that is well worth the trek.

4. Take a guided bike tour.

The folks at Beaver Island Slow Roll Tour will lead you to the island’s farthest reaches. 239.810.1348 108

10. Cut Loose on a UTV. Big Rock Rental can set you up with a 2- or 4-passenger UTV, map and goggles. bigrockrental.com Get to Beaver Island by ferry (bibco.com) or plane (islandairways.com; freshairaviation.net). For travel and lodging info: beaverisland.org.

PHOTO BY FRANK SOLLE

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PHOTOS BY TESS CROWLEY

THINGS TO DO AT

This century-old American castle in Charlevoix makes for a fascinating day-trip destination.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

Castle Farms 1. Take either a self-guided or guided history tour of the castle and learn about its rich backstory, from housing a world-record producing dairy cow to hosting Aerosmith live in concert.

2. Hop aboard the tram for a tour of the grounds (weather permitting).

3. Enjoy the peace of the reflecting pond filled with rainbow trout. Yes, you can feed the fish.

4. Say “hi” to Norm, the resident dragon (statue) who migrated to the castle from ArtPrize in Grand Rapids.

Learn more about the history and beauty of Castle Farms: link.mynorth.com/castlefarms

5. Teach your children the ABC’s by taking them through the Alphabet Garden. There’s a plant for every letter of the alphabet including X: Xeranthemum.

6. Watch the state’s largest outdoor model train chug around 2,500 feet of track. Kids and adults alike will never forget the Fantasy Trains that are handmade from old toys.

7. Enjoy tasting Michigan wine in the medieval splendor of the Queen’s Tavern at 1918 Cellars.

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PHOTO BY KELLY REWA

TAKE A HIKE! The Charlevoix region is ribboned with gorgeous trails that wind through forests and wetlands and past rivers, lakes and even herds of elk.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

jordan valley pathway

ALONG A BEACH A short boardwalk with stairs at the roadside Wilcox-Palmer-Shah Nature Preserve leads to a stellar stretch of East Grand Traverse Bay beach, just south of Kewadin. Walk it as a roundtrip and get a mile in!

To help protect the sensitive ecosystem (home to threatened Pitcher’s thistle and Lake Huron tansy), walk below the high-water mark. gtrlc.org

Dog friendly Must be leashed, outdoor areas only unless noted.

THROUGH A WETLAND Hike the 7.5 miles of trails that wind around and over wetlands in the nearly 1,500-acre Grass River Natural Area north of Alden, on Alden Highway. You’ll come away dazzled by how much life there is in a wetland. (Dogs allowed on Algonquin and Rail trails only.) grassriver.org

BY A RIVER Take a day hike or heft your backpack for an 18-mile roundtrip overnight: Either way, the Jordan Valley Pathway, located near East Jordan, offers an adventure that traverses this 18,000-acre protected valley along the Jordan River—the state’s first designated Wild and Scenic River. michigan.gov/dnr TO SEE ELK Aspen Park, a 100-acre wood tucked into the city of Gaylord, has everything you need for a quick getaway to the wild side. Find paved and unpaved trails for hiking and biking and even view elk across a fence in the city’s Elk Park. gaylordmichigan.net

Discover more hiking adventures across the North: link.mynorth.com/hike

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UNDER OLD-GROWTH PINES At almost 10,000 acres, Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling is threaded with fabulous trails— 21 miles of them to be exact. A great place to get warmed up is the 1.25-mile paved Old Growth Forest Trail located next to the visitor center. As its name implies, the trail runs underneath towering old-growth white pines—a taste of Hartwick’s total 49 acres packed with granddaddy specimens of our state trees. michigan.gov/dnr

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WE’RE SURROUNDED

We’re surrounded by natural beauty. The beach National Geographic named one of the “21 Best Beaches in the World” is on our west.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which the viewers of Good Morning America chose as the “Most Beautiful Place in America”, is on our north and east. The most popular vacation activities in the national park and area, including biking, hiking, swimming, paddling, dune climbing, golf, tennis, shopping, sightseeing, wine tasting and dining are on our property or nearby.

Stay here...be surrounded, be glad.

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COVER PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER // THIS PAGE BY TAYLOR BROWN

BE HERE AT SUNSET!

empire beach village park

When a peninsula faces due west, you have to know the sunsets are epic.

Here are five of our fave Leelanau places to take in the greatest show on Earth.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

EMPIRE BEACH VILLAGE PARK 10484 NIAGARA ST.

South Manitou rests on the horizon as the summer sun sets across a swath of sparkling Lake Michigan water. With South Bar Lake at your back, public bathrooms, a playground and a grill area, this park was made for a beach day capped with a solar-powered finale.

GLEN HAVEN M-109 TO GLEN HAVEN ROAD, 2.3 MILES WEST OF GLEN ARBOR

Plop yourself on the beach in Glen Haven (a National Park Service-restored port village) in time to catch the sunset, or walk south to Sleeping Bear Point and climb to the top for a bird’s-eye view. Either way, the unobstructed panorama of Lake Michigan, the Manitou Islands and a setting sun is stellar. Find public bathrooms and plenty of parking in Glen Haven.

LAKE STREET BEACH 5716 S. LAKE ST., GLEN ARBOR

On summer evenings, crowds of sunset worshippers make the two-minute walk down S. Lake Street from Western Avenue (M-22) to the small public beach and boat ramp on Sleeping Bear Bay. From here, the Manitou Islands sit squarely on the horizon. Heads cock slightly to the left as that glorious orb dips into the water between Sleeping Bear Point and South Manitou.

A sunset is the cherry on top of an M-22 road trip. Fill your day with these stops along the iconic highway. link.mynorth.com/m22roadtrip

LELAND HARBOR SUNSET DECK 107 N. LAKE ST.

Sunsets over the Leland Harbor—where Fishtown bustles, boats bob in the foreground and the Manitou Islands float on the horizon—are so spectacular the townsfolk built a deck in their honor. Be there early to claim an Adirondack chair or a place at the railing. The deck is atop the public restrooms, to the right as you turn into the Leland Harbor parking lot.

PETERSON PARK 10001 E. PETERSON PARK RD., NORTHPORT

A viewing platform on a bluff 400 feet above Lake Michigan completes this amphitheater for nature’s nightly show. Other amenities include a stairway down to a rocky beach, pavilion, playground, picnic and volleyball areas, and a paved parking lot.

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Find more things to do at the dunes: link.mynorth.com/sleepingbear

sleeping bear INSIDER'S

As pretty much a lifer in the Sleeping Bear Dunes area, here’s my primer for getting the most out of your visit to (what I consider) the most beautiful place on Earth.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

GET THE LAY OF THE LAND

Before setting out, make a quick stop at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor Center in Empire to gather maps and purchase your National Park Pass. To plan your trip beforehand, study up at nps.gov/slbe.

Next on the agenda? Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, four miles north of Empire. This 7.4-mile drive atop the dunes offers jaw-dropping views of Lake Michigan, the Glen Lakes and the dunes themselves. Interpretive signs along the route explain the various ecosystems and geological history of this landscape. Stretch your legs on the Cottonwood Trail, a 1.4-mile loop that winds across the dunes. Lovely picnic sites beg a relaxed lunch!

TUMBLE DOWN THE DUNE CLIMB

Who doesn’t want to play on a giant hill of silken sand? Getting to the top is a workout but the views from on high are one payoff. The other, of course, is the run and tumble down. Once you’re good and hot and sweaty, head across M-109 to Little Glen Lake Beach for a dip.

Insider’s Tip: While it appears that Lake Michigan is just on the other side of the big dune, in reality what is known as the Dune Trail is an arduous (though beautiful!) almost two-mile hike—and then you have to walk back. If you do plan to make the 3.5-mile roundtrip trek, be in shape and be prepared with water, snacks, sunscreen and a cell phone.

TAKE A HISTORY LESSON AND A BEAUTIFUL HIKE

In Glen Haven, check out the old-fashioned general store, boathouse museum and blacksmith shop—all owned by the National Park Service.

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A short but very scenic drive on Sleeping Bear Dunes Road along the shore leads to the Maritime Museum housed in the old Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station. Explore a bit, and then make the drive (or short walk) to the Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead at the far end (past the roundabout) of Sleeping Bear Dunes Road. Hike this beautiful 2.8-mile loop, then take the .5-mile spur for a swim in Lake Michigan!

BIKE THE NATIONAL LAKESHORE

The (mostly paved) Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail runs 22 miles from Empire to Bohemian Road in Maple City, winding past dunes, Lake Michigan, inland lakes and forests. Whether you do all of it or just a portion depends on how much of a workout you’d like. The Cyclery in Glen Arbor and Empire Outdoors in Empire rent bikes and can help you pick a route. crystalriveroutfitters.com/the-cyclery; facebook.com/EmpireMIOutdoors

PADDLE THE CRYSTAL

Kayaking or canoeing the shallow Crystal River is a big, beautiful, safe adventure. The folks at Crystal River Outfitters will set you up for a memorable trip that lasts two to three hours. Splash around in the clear, warm water and keep your eyes out for wildlife. crystalriveroutfitters.com

PUT IT ON YOUR CALENDAR

Port Oneida Fair, August 12–13: Experience 19th and early-20th century life in this historic farming community with craft demonstrations, tours and more. phsb.org

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crystal river

PHOTOS BY TAYLOR BROWN

pierce stocking scenic drive #9

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big lake beaches

good harbor beach Looking for big sand, big surf and big fun?

Leelanau has what you’re looking for.

Check out these big, beautiful Lake Michigan beaches.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

NORTH BAR LAKE, EMPIRE

Cool off in Lake Michigan after basking in the warmer water of North Bar Lake—a small inland lake that drains into Lake Michigan. The creek between North Bar and Lake Michigan was made for skim boarding, sand dams and general splashing around. Find restrooms at the paved parking area. National Park Pass required. nps.gov/slbe GET THERE: From Empire, take M-22 north approximately a mile. Turn left on Voice Road then right on N. Bar Lake Road.

GOOD HARBOR BEACHES, MAPLE CITY/CEDAR

Some folks call this the Copacabana of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore—a big, long beach that can accommodate the crowds that flock to it. Views of the Manitou Islands, huge swathes of sand and a softly sloping, kid-friendly beach; perfect for a sunset bonfire. National Park Pass required. nps.gov/slbe GET THERE: Take either CR-669 (Bohemian Road) or CR-651 (Good Harbor Trail) from M-22, between Glen Arbor and Leland.

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VAN’S BEACH, LELAND

This beach gives you the best of all worlds: soft sand, views of the Manitous, great rock hunting (including the coveted Leland Blue stone) and easy access to the food and drink hangouts of Leland and Fishtown. Public restrooms at the Leland Harbor. lelandmi.com GET THERE: Access at the west end of Cedar Street (turn at Van’s Garage).

CHRISTMAS COVE, NORTHPORT

A township park, this secluded half-moon stretch of sandy beach is near the tip of the peninsula. A short downhill path leads to Nirvana. Some parking and pit toilets are available. northportomenachamber.org GET THERE: From Northport, head north on CR-201 (N. Mill Street) for 1.5 miles. Jog left on N. Kilcherman Road until it turns into E. Christmas Cove Road. The beach is just a mile farther.

Your guide to more gorgeous beaches: link.mynorth.com/leelanaubeaches

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Kid-Friendly Beaches ...… … and the scoop on where to find ice cream!

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

SOUTH BAR LAKE AT EMPIRE BEACH VILLAGE PARK

Just across the parking lot from a big beautiful Lake Michigan beach, South Bar Lake is a bit warmer and almost never has waves. Bathrooms, a playground and pavilion make this spot a friend to families. GET THERE: Find it at 10484 Niagara St., a couple blocks from downtown.

Tiffany’s Cafe, 10213 W. Front St., Empire

SHALDA CREEK, MAPLE CITY

PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

More fun than a water park, this is where shallow, sandy-bottomed Shalda Creek flows into Lake Michigan. Floating down the slow current is part of the fun so bring your floatie toys.

Vault toilets mean you can stay all day. Part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore; Park Pass required. nps.gov/slbe GET THERE: From Glen Arbor, take M-22 northeast for about 7 miles then turn left on Bohemian Road. Left again when you come to Lake Michigan. Watch for the sign. Park on the side of the road.

Blue Moon Ice Cream Shop, 9032 S. Kasson St., Cedar

BARTHOLOMEW PARK (NEDOW’S BAY BEACH), LELAND

Tucked in the back corner of Leland on Lake Leelanau find this spot with an off-the-beaten path feel, sandy beach, swimming area, picnic tables and grills. GET THERE: Follow Pearl Street east out of downtown Leland to where it ends.

Harbor House Trading Co., 101 N. Main St., Leland

MARINA PARK, SUTTONS BAY

With the provisions of downtown Suttons Bay just steps away, this is the perfect place to spend a summer day with the kids. A sandy beach, shallow water, playground equipment, picnic tables, grills and public restrooms round out the amenities. GET THERE: Located just off the downtown at 326 Front St. Scoops 22, 403 N. St. Joseph St., Suttons Bay

PHOTO BY ANGELA BROWN

BAY FRONT PARK, NORTHPORT

Located next to the marina in the heart of this beautiful Lake Michigan town, Bay Front Park has that storybook Gilmore Girls (read: Stars Hollow) feel. Find a swimming beach, picnic tables, playground, volleyball court and a gazebo. GET THERE: From Shabwasung Street (M-22), turn right on Main Street, left on Bay Street.

The Tribune Ice Cream & Eatery, 110 E. Nagonaba, Northport

van's beach

Discover family-friendly fun across the North: link.mynorth.com/kids

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Discover an array of things to do at each of these uniquely northern towns: link.mynorth.com/towns. For a complete list of restaurants, lodging, shopping and more, head to: link.mynorth.com/directory.

small towns big charm The eclectic towns of the Leelanau Peninsula are all alive with shopping, restaurants, outdoor concerts and more. Here’s your introduction.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

CEDAR/MAPLE CITY

LELAND

EMPIRE

NORTHPORT

Cedar flaunts its heritage with the Polish Art Center and an annual Polka Fest in August. Stop for a cuppa at the new Cedar River Coffee Company before heading to Wool & Honey, a sheep-to-needles yarn shop. Due east in Maple City, find killer breakfasts at Pegtown Station, learn to curl (on an indoor rink) at Broomstack Kitchen & Taphouse or pick your own lavender at Bohemian Lavender Farm.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore’s Visitors Center is located here, as well as the Empire Bluff hiking trail with its glorious view of Lake Michigan. Browse sweet shops and take a surfing lesson from Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak. The Village Inn and Joe’s Friendly Tavern do tavern fare right, and Shipwreck Cafe offers fab sammies and wood-fired pizza.

GLEN ARBOR

Set in the middle of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and on Sleeping Bear Bay, this town exudes outdoor fun. Kayak the Crystal River or bike the Heritage Trail (rent bikes and kayaks at Crystal River Outfitters). Discover all things cherry at Cherry Republic, eat a burger at iconic Art’s Tavern, dine on the bay at Blu Restaurant and wine taste at M22 Winery, Cherry Republic and Glen Arbor Wines.

LAKE LEELANAU

Situated on the beautiful Lake Leelanau Narrows, this downtown mixes a friendly vibe with the buzz of three wine tasting rooms (Boathouse, Amoritas and Soul Squeeze) and Northern Latitudes Distillery. Find authentic Indian carryout at NJ’s Market, grab coffee at Pedaling Beans, try the classic tavern fare at Dick’s Pour House or enjoy the best of both worlds at Nittolo’s Pizza / Nittolo’s Seafood & Social.

This coastal town shines from its Main Street down to its harbor, where you’ll find the wharf and shanties of Fishtown filled with shopping, food and fresh fish. Book a Lake Michigan charter here or hop the ferry to the Manitou islands. Dining scene stars include to-go sammies at the Village Cheese Shop in Fishtown and The Cove and Bluebird restaurants. Taste wine downtown at Verterra.

This postcard-perfect town is the gateway to the tippy-top of the Leelanau Peninsula where you’ll find Grand Traverse Lighthouse, Leelanau State Park and Peterson Park. Visit fun, funky shops and eateries (standouts: The Tribune, Garage Bar & Grill and New Bohemia Cafe) and the Mitten Brewing Company. Just south of town, Fischer’s Happy Hour Tavern is a classic.

OMENA/PESHAWBESTOWN

This charming postage stamp–sized town perched on Omena Bay is home to Tamarack Gallery. Take a table overlooking the water at Knot Just a Bar or Leelanau Cellars winery. Find the Leelanau Sands Casino at Peshawbestown, the home of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

SUTTONS BAY

Suttons Bay rocks a hip vibe with its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants (Martha’s Leelanau Table, Wren and Stateside Grille are standouts) and the community-owned Bay Theatre. The hopping Hop Lot Brewing Co. is just south of town. Find hiking and biking at the edge of town on TART’S Leelanau Trail. And check out Suttons Bay Marina a block off the downtown, where the picture-worthy schooner and schoolship Inland Seas is docked.

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SuttonsBayArea.com

Suttons Bay MICHIGAN Suttons Bay is host to many social events throughout the year.

Be sure to check our website for current information.

SuttonsBayArea.com/calendar

May 18-25 Village Art Collage June 17 Artisan & Wine Walk Aug 6-7 Art Festival Aug 13 Sidewalk Sales Oct 21 Fall Artisan & Wine Walk Sept 9-10 Harvest Stompede Nov 19 Friends and Family Day Nov 26 Holiday in the Village Dec 10 Library Holiday Gala Feb 2023 Yeti Fest

Celebrating 44 years

Entertain Michigan Style serve • bake • treat

FB @Suttons Bay Chamber of Commerce Instagram @ suttonsbaymichamberofcommerce

231.271.6895 • FrontPorchSuttonsBay.com Downtown Suttons Bay • Open Daily

Over 100 artists from Michigan & Beyond!

42nd annual August 6th & 7th, 2022 Marina Park, Suttons Bay

www.SuttonsBayArtFestival.org 5th Annual Pop-Up Art Show in Leelanau County

October 8th & 9th, 2022 A multi venue Art tour on M-22 in Leelanau County Paintings | Sculpture | Ceramics | Furniture

www.M22Art2Art.com 124

Find unusual and familiar titles for all ages, cards and gifts for the curious and discerning book lover.

Plan ahead and visit our website for suggestions. We offer curbside pickup and shipping with free gift wrapping.

220 N Saint Joseph St., Suttons Bay, MI 231-944-6809 • www.baybooksmi.com

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A FULL SERVICE GROCERY STORE Expansive Wine, Beer & Spirit Selection Bakery, Meat, and Dairy A FULLQuality SERVICE GROCERY STORE Fresh Produce & Specialty Products

Expansive Wine, Beer & Spirit Selection

Hot & Cold Deli featuring Boar’s Head Meats & Cheeses

European Style Cafe

Serving both indoors and on our patio, and featuring dinner, beer, wine and cocktails.

Quality Bakery, Meat, and Dairy A FULL SERVICE GROCERY STORE

A FULL SERVICE GROCERY STO (231) 271-4280

Prix Fixe Dinner Special 5:00-6:00 pm • $25 The Red House in Downtown Suttons Bay 231.271.2344 • marthasleelanautable.com

Fresh Produce & Specialty Products

Expansive Wine, Beer & Spirit Selection

Hot & Cold Deli featuring Boar’s Head Meats & Cheeses

A FULL SERVICE GROCERY STORE

Quality Bakery, Meat, and Dairy

(231) 271-4280 Fresh Produce & Specialty Products

Hot & Cold Deli featuring Boar’s Head Meats & Cheeses Expansive Wine, Beer & Spirit Selection

• Expansive Wine, Beer &Wine, Spirit Beer Selection Expansive & Spirit Selection Local Offerings & Gourmet Selection Quality Bakery, Meat, and Dairy • Fresh Produce & Specialty Products In-Store Wine Stewards Fresh Produce & Specialty Products Quality Bakery, Meat, and Dairy Local Offerings & Gourmet Selection • Hot & Cold Deli Featuring Hot & Cold Deli featuring Boar’s Head Meats & Cheeses Weddings, CorporateIn-Store Gatherings, Reunions & More Head Meats & Cheeses WineSelection StewardsBoar’s Local Offerings & Gourmet Fresh Produce & Specialty Products • Bakery, Meat and Dairy Weddings, Corporate Gatherings, Reunions & More Knowledgable & Friendly In-Store Wine Stewards Staff Local Hot Offerings & Cold&Deli featuring Boar’s Head Meats & Cheeses Weddings, Corporate Gatherings, More Knowledgable &Reunions Friendly&•Staff Gourmet Selection Knowledgable & Friendly Staff

(231) 271-4280 (231) 271-4280

Visit Visit us atus91at W Fourth 91 W FourthStreet Street

A FULLSelection SERVICE GROCERY STORE Local Offerings & Gourmet

(231) 271-4280

In-Store Wine Stewards Visit us at 91 W Fourth Street Just south of the Village off M-22, inside of Hansen Plaza

Expansive Wine, Beer & Spirit Selection Quality Bakery, Meat, and Dairy

Fresh Produce & Specialty Products Corporate Reunions & More & Cold Deli featuring Boar’s Head Meats & Cheeses Just south of the Village off Weddings, M-22, M 22,, inside ofGatherings, HansenHotPlaza

Just south of the Village off M-22, inside of Hansen Plaza

Knowledgable & Friendly Staff www.hansenfoodsofsb.com www.hansenfoodsofsb.com www.hansenfoodsofsb.com (231) 271-4280

Visit us at 91 W Fourth Street Local Offerings & Gourmet Selection In-Store Wine Stewards

Weddings, Corporate Gatherings, Reunions & More

& Friendly Staff Just south of the Village off M-22, insideKnowledgable of Hansen Plaza

Local Offerings & Gourmet Selection

Visit us at 91 W Fourth Street

Daily Splash

www.hansenfoodsofsb.com Chimoski Bakery of Suttons Bay In-Store Wine Stewards Just south of the Village off M-22, inside of Hansen Plaza

www.hansenfoodsofsb.com

A small-town bakery that uses some of Grandma’s best recipes.

Weddings, Corporate Gatherings, Reunions & More

We focus on Knowledgable providing you&with Friendly Staff small-town service and customer satisfaction. We will do everything we can to meet your expectations!

Daily stories, updates, and more about life in Northern Michigan.

Visit us at 91 W Fourth Stree • Morning Goodies

Just• south of the Village off M-22, inside of Hansen Pla Cookies

www.hansenfoodsofsb.com

• Pies • Cakes & Cupcakes

Delivered to your inbox monthly:

MyNorth.com/Newsletter

Open 6am-2pm M-Sat 720 N St Joseph St, Suttons Bay • chimoskibakery.com • 231.271.2207

Come for the fudge, Come forStay the fudge, Come for the fudge, for the Stay show!for the show Stay for the www.9beanrows.com show!

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Open 7-days a week 209 N St. Joseph St • Suttons Bay, MI (231) 271-4445 • MurdicksFudgeShoppe@gmail.com Use our Mail Service to send a delicious treat to family and friends back home.

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PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER

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WAYS TO SPEND A DAY IN

This collection of authentic fishing shanties on the Leland River near Lake Michigan offers no end of excuses to linger. Here’s a list to get you started.

Fishtown

BY AMANDA HOLMES, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FISHTOWN PRESERVATION SOCIETY

1. Pick up smoked whitefish at Carlson’s and enjoy a true taste of Fishtown.

2. Watch the steel tug Joy come in at the end of the afternoon with her catch of fish.

3. Order a pretzel-bread sandwich at Village Cheese Shanty and eat it on the dock.

4. Bring a rod and reel and fish off the dock or book a charter boat and catch fish on the big lake.

5. Buy one-of-a-kind gifts and art at the shops in Fishtown’s weathered shanties.

6. Get an ice cream cone from the Dam Candy Store and watch the sunset over the marina.

7. Take a selfie on the dam (with shanties and harbor in the background).

8. Watch for otters and other wildlife along the river.

9. Check out Story Port exhibits on each of the shanties that reveal Fishtown’s storied past.

10. Note how much the water level has gone down in just two years!

11. Take a trip to the Manitou Islands aboard the ferry Mishe-Mokwa.

12. Walk Fishtown’s new docks and appreciate that fish tugs Joy and Janice Sue are now safely moored.

13. Eat at The Cove, a restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining overlooking Lake Michigan and the river.

14. Stop at the Fishtown Preservation Welcome Center and learn 16 things you didn’t know about this historic fishing village.

15. Book a room at Falling Waters Lodge so you can go to bed in Fishtown and wake up here, too!

16. Donate online and ensure Fishtown remains here forever. fishtownmi.org

Take a day trip to South Manitou or unwind on North Manitou’s secret beaches.

Plan your island getaway, leaving from Fishtown: link.mynorth.com/themanitous

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YOU’RE INVITED

The viewers of Good Morning America chose it as the “Most Beautiful Place in America”.

National Geographic named its beach one of the “21 Best Beaches in the World”.

It’s the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Other communities claim to be close to it but aren’t.

We don’t make that claim. It surrounds us.

So save the driving and gas...vacation here and stay here.

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willow vineyard

CLASSIC FINE CLOTHING WOMENS

MENS

KIDS

BABY

SHOP YOUR FAVORITES DUBARRY BARBOUR JOULES PATAGONIA MARBLE FILSON FOIL

cool. comfort. classic.

LOCATED IN BEAUTIFUL

Downtown Suttons Bay

2022 Vacation Guide

FREE DIGITAL VERSION!

PHOTO BY MAE STIER

bahles.net

WINE TASTING BY BIKE

Napa? Nope. This is Leelanau Wine Country!

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

Vacation!

Take it on-the-go: link.mynorth.com/vacation2022

More ways to taste and tour Northern Michigan’s wine regions: link.mynorth.com/wine

The paved, off-road Leelanau Trail winds for 17 bucolic miles between Traverse City and Suttons Bay. Pedal it and you’ll pass forests, meadows, orchards, lakes, streams and, yes, Leelanau Wine Country. While you can certainly study a map of both the Leelanau Trail (traversetrails.org) and the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail (lpwines.com) and put together your own itinerary, there is an easier way: Book a Leelanau Wine Trail Bike Tour with Grand Traverse Bike Tours (grandtraversebiketours. com) and let them do all the work.

What’s included? A bike and helmet, catered lunch, van support to pick up your winery purchases and directions to the wineries. That leaves nothing for you and your party to do but eat, drink, pedal along leisurely, and of course, be merry. The self-guided tour starts and ends at the bike shop in Suttons Bay. Stops include Black Star Farms, Ciccone Vineyard & Winery, Mawby, Shady Lane Cellars and more.

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1 GLEN ARBOR WINES Relaxed, vintage-style tasting room with a stocked cooler (think deli items, snacks), an outdoor bocce court and lawn games.

4 CHATEAU FONTAINE VINEYARD & WINERY Intimate and homey, with a vine-covered patio and woodsy, rural setting.

9 VERTERRA WINERY – LELAND TASTING ROOM Downtown hangout in a 1927 brick building that was once a barber shop/pool hall.

1 M22 GLEN ARBOR Rent kayaks and paddle the Crystal River, ending your trip conveniently downtown—right across the street from this outdoor wine patio.

4 FRENCH VALLEY VINEYARD Doors opened last summer at French Valley’s new warehouse-style barn tasting room (with custom saddle bar stools) and an expansive patio and pavilion.

1 CHERRY REPUBLIC WINERY & THE CHERRY PUBLIC HOUSE Cherry wines, ciders and beers (and sodas for kids!). Plus, visit the iconic Great Hall brimming with cherry goodies.

5 GOOD HARBOR VINEYARDS Take a self-guided tour of the production room and wine cellar then sit outdoors on the lawn or patio that feel like a friend’s (wonderfully landscaped) backyard.

11 LEELANAU CELLARS The view of Omena Bay is absolutely stellar, inside and on the patio. More than 60 wines to choose from.

2 AMORITAS VINEYARDS Grab a seat on the porch with a charcuterie tray and flight. (Psst! Ask about private tastings at the vineyard.)

6 SOUL SQUEEZE CELLARS Homey tasting room with a large lawn. Gives a portion of proceeds to charitable children’s organizations each year.

12 SILVER LEAF VINEYARD & WINERY Make it a wine weekend and book a stay at Silver Leaf’s two-person log cottage (check availability on Airbnb).

2 LAURENTIDE WINERY Picnic tables with vineyard views. Private vineyard tours and small-plate pairings available by reservation.

6 NORTHERN LATITUDES DISTILLERY Complimentary spirit tastings, extensive cocktail menu (recipes online to try at home!), always a good time.

13 DUNE BIRD WINERY Kid-friendly (think play set, toys, books!) with legit espresso, wine and small plates in an elevated tasting room. Lots of outdoor seating, too.

2 BOATHOUSE VINEYARD Relax out back and watch boats pass by on “The Narrows,” connecting North and South Lake Leelanau.

7 AURORA CELLARS Old World, European-style estate with a patio overlooking the vineyard and a lavender-lined walkway.

14 TANDEM CIDERS The region’s first cidery is an absolute delight: A barn-like tasting room with the vibe of a British pub tucked away in orchard country.

3 BEL LAGO Beautifully renovated in 2020, the tasting room offers panoramic views of Lake Leelanau. Lots of lawn and patio seating, too.

8 THE RIDGE AT VERTERRA A seasonal tasting experience. Huge patio and terrace overlooking vineyards and Grand Traverse Bay.

14 45 NORTH VINEYARD & WINERY Rustic but elevated post-and-beam barn with gorgeous wood interior. Explore the three-mile Vineyard Trail and take a pic on the 45th parallel at the “Wine on the Line” sign.

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10 GREEN BIRD ORGANIC CELLARS Pick up some pastured eggs and organic veggies after your wine tasting. Private farm tours available by reservation.

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14 BLUSTONE VINEYARDS Modern with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the vineyard and a cozy firepit outdoors.

15 SUTTONS BAY CIDERS The Grand Traverse Bay views will knock your socks off (Moon Rise Over the Bay events are especially pretty). Great deck and fire pit area.

16 TWO K FARMS CIDERY & WINERY Another A+ for views of Grand Traverse Bay and rolling orchards. Large deck, patio and tent to soak it all in, often with live music.

16 BLACK STAR FARMS The 160-acre estate is home to a tasting room, luxury inn, seasonal farm-to-table café, hiking trails and more.

17 MAWBY Sparkling wines only at this long-respected winery, best known for its popular, and provocative, “Sex” rosé.

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17 BIG LITTLE WINES A big and little brother making balanced, complex wines together. Located right next door to Mawby, so plan to stop at both.

17 CICCONE VINEYARD & WINERY Yes, this is the winery Madonna’s dad owns.

No, the staff can’t get you an autograph. The tasting room is warm and welcoming, and you’ll cherish the property’s true-blue bay views.

17 WILLOW WINERY After founders Jo and John Crampton retired, Tracy and Harry Faulkner picked up the torch (or should we say vine) in 2021. They hope to honor the legacy and continue to elevate the experience.

18 SHADY LANE CELLARS Committed to sustainable agriculture, Shady Lane was SIP Certified in 2020—a rigorous process that looks at people, planet and prosperity to ensure natural and human resources are protected.

19 BRENGMAN BROTHERS White farmhouse-style tasting room with a generous patio located 10 minutes outside of downtown Traverse City.

20 ROVE ESTATE Perched at the highest point on the Leelanau Peninsula (and just minutes from downtown TC) with lots of indoor and outdoor seating.

21 HOP LOT BREWING CO. Massive four-season beer garden with firepits and picnic tables in summer and igloos in winter. Good food menu for lunch and dinner; we love the tacos.

22 FARM CLUB A brewery/restaurant/market/farm focused on subtle, lower-alcohol beers. Lots of seating indoor and out, family friendly.

23 THE MITTEN BREWING CO. Covered patio, stone fireplace and backyard bier garden in Northport’s charming downtown.

Outside food welcome; food truck on weekends and occasionally weekdays.

24 GRAND TRAVERSE DISTILLERY – LELAND OUTPOST Seasonal tasting room in downtown Leland next to historic Fishtown. Venture into TC for a tour at the production facility.

Find a spot to grab a bite or treat your designated driver to a coffee: link.mynorth.com/dining

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dine al fresco

Is there anything better than a table in the sunshine and lake breeze? Check out our town-by-town guide to eating outside in Leelanau County.

BY OLIVIA FELLOWS AND ELIZABETH EDWARDS

EMPIRE JOE’S FRIENDLY TAVERN 11015 W. FRONT ST. | 231.326.5506

Fingers crossed that this iconic tavern will have its new outdoor seating area ready for summer.

SHIPWRECK CAFE 11691 S. LACORE RD. | 231.835.2580

Delish fresh-made sandwiches on homemade bread. Wood-fired pizza on some nights. Outdoor tables in the front yard.

GLEN ARBOR ART’S TAVERN 6487 W. WESTERN AVE. | 231.334.3754

Hammer a house-ground burger and the best tater tots on the planet at a table on the patio.

Cash or check only.

BEAR PAW PIZZA & MARKET

BOONEDOCKS

WESTERN AVENUE GRILL

5858 S. MANITOU BLVD. | 231.334.6444

6410 WESTERN AVE. | 231.334.3362

Live music and elevated bar food on a spacious deck.

Burgers, flatbreads, fish and more. Spacious outdoor seating on the downtown patio.

CHERRY PUBLIC HOUSE

MAPLE CITY BROOMSTACK KITCHEN & TAPHOUSE

6026 S. LAKE ST. | 231.226.3033

Full lunch and dinner menu with a subtle cherry theme, wine and craft beer all served on the patio.

172 W. BURDICKVILLE RD. | 231.228.8869

Kicked-up bar food served outside on a spacious lawn.

GOOD HARBOR GRILL

LITTLE TRAVERSE INN GASTRO PUB

6584 WESTERN AVE. | 231.334.3555

149 E. HARBOR HWY. | 231.228.2560

Fresh, homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes served on the street-side intimate patio.

Linger over elevated pub food on the gracious patio.

INN & TRAIL GOURMET

MARKET 22

6453 WESTERN AVE. | 231.835.2535

497 E. HARBOR HWY. | 231.228.6422

To-go sandwiches, salads, charcuterie and more in a lovely garden setting.

Deep-dish pizza, sandwiches, soup and salad off M-22 with an outdoor tent.

THE HOMESTEAD

LELAND BLUEBIRD RESTAURANT & TAVERN

6444 W. WESTERN AVE. | 231.334.2327

Take your pizza and sammies to the street-side picnic tables.

BLU 5705 S. LAKE ST. | 231.334.2530

Intimate, gourmet and fabulous Blu on Sleeping Bear Bay is reservation-only inside. Only day-of (no advance) reservations on the beautiful beachside patio.

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1 WOODRIDGE RD. | 231.334.5000

Order up burgers, pizza and more from the outside bar at Whisker’s. Guests of the resort can make reservations for exquisite lakeside dining at Cafe Manitou.

102 E. RIVER ST. | 231.256.9081

A Leland icon. Classic menu and a beautiful riverside patio.

BOGEY’S AT THE LELAND LODGE

THE MILL 5440 W. HARBOR HWY.

Grab-and-go sandwiches, pastries and coffee served up at this freshly renovated historic property.

565 PEARL ST. | 231.256.7504

Steaks to nachos served on the patio overlooking the Leland Country Club golf course.

MYNORTH.COM

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hop lot

PHOTO BY MAE STIER

PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN

art's tavern

RIVERSIDE INN

HEARTH & VINE CAFÉ AT BLACK STAR FARMS

WREN THE BUTCHER

302 E. RIVER ST. | 231.256.9971

10844 E. REVOLD RD. | 231.944.1297

303 N. ST. JOSEPH ST. | 231.271.1175

Farm-to-table fine dining served inside and on the deck overlooking the Leland River.

Enjoy salad, pizza and sandwiches paired with a glass of wine produced from the Black Star Farms’ vineyards that surround you.

Euro-style patio in front of this innovative bistro.

THE COVE & RICK’S CAFE 111 W. RIVER ST. | 231.256.9834

This Leelanau must-visit features steaks, whitefish, burgers and outdoor seating along the Leland Dam.

45TH PARALLEL CAFE 102 W. BROADWAY | 231.271.2233

HOP LOT BREWING CO. 658 S. W. BAY SHORE DR. | 231.866.4445

Eat, drink and be merry in a large, tree-filled beer garden.

Breakfast and lunch with classic wake-up food and a robust sandwich and salad menu. Sit outside under the colorful umbrellas.

TRISH’S DISHES

MARTHA’S LEELANAU TABLE

OMENA KNOT JUST A BAR

407 S. MAIN ST. | 231.994.2288

413 N. ST. JOSEPH ST. | 231.271.2344

5019 N. WEST BAY SHORE DR. | 231.386.7393

To-die-for omelettes, panini and burritos.

Order at the counter and eat on sidewalk or side yard tables.

Farm-to-table restaurant with rotating menu that can be ordered up on the charming outdoor patio.

Hearty burgers, seafood, pasta, salads and tables overlooking sweet Omena Bay.

VILLAGE CHEESE SHANTY

NORTH COUNTRY GRILL & PUB

NORTHPORT THE GARAGE BAR & GRILL

199 W. RIVER ST. | 231.256.9141

420 N. ST. JOSEPH ST. | 231.271.5000

108 S. WAUKAZOO ST. | 231.386.5511

Order up one of Fishtown’s famous pretzel-bread sandwiches, grab a nearby picnic table or bench and chow down. Cash only.

Spacious outdoor seating and a walk-up bar serving grill favorites like burgers, prime rib and even lobster.

BBQ and bar with an intimate outdoor patio.

THE MITTEN BREWING CO. 112 W. NAGONABA ST. | 231.386.1101

LAKE LEELANAU FIDDLEHEADS 202 W. MAIN ST. | 231.994.2121

Farm-to-table café with some outside tables, serving mimosas and bloody marys made with local spirits.

PREMONITIONS PIZZA & ARCADE 100A CEDAR ST. | 231.866.4494

Order up sandwiches, pizza and salads and head for the patio.

STREETSIDE GRILLE 111 N. ST. JOSEPH ST. | 231.866.4199

SUTTONS BAY BOONE’S PRIME TIME PUB 102 N. ST. JOSEPH ST. | 231.271.6688

This pub known for its rustic charm and fab burgers boasts a new patio with a view of Suttons Bay.

As its name implies, guests enjoy outdoor street-side dining—or sit just inside the open garage-style doors and feel the breeze.

V.I. GRILL 201 N. ST. JOSEPH ST. | 231.271.3300

Breakfast specials and bar classics like burgers and fried-fish dinners served on the patio.

Sip craft beer and munch pizza on the covered patio or backyard beer garden.

TRAVERSE CITY FARM CLUB 10051 LAKE LEELANAU DR. | 231.252.3079

Farm, brewery, market and restaurant where outdoor seating abounds.

Must-try restaurants, insider menu recommendations and seasonal recipes: link.mynorth.com/dining 2022 MYNORTH

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Vacation!

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leelanau state park LOSE

Perched at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula and surrounded by the expanse of Lake Michigan, this 1,550-acre park offers camping, secluded beaches, hiking trails and tours of the historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse.

BY ELIZABETH EDWARDS

YOURSELF

TO

CAMPING

Up at the tippy top of the Leelanau Peninsula, you’ll wake to Lake Michigan sunrises and go to sleep to Lake Michigan sunsets at this state park that houses a 51-site rustic campground and three mini cabins.

HIKING TRAILS

More than eight miles of looped trails that cover everything from hills and forests to wetlands and dunes make this a lovely hiking destination. Don’t miss the 2.2-mile roundtrip hike to Manitou Overlook, accessed from the Lake Michigan Trail where (on clear days) you’ll see North Manitou and the Fox Islands floating on the horizon. The trailhead is at the end of Densmore Road, approximately five miles south of the lighthouse/day-use area.

CATHEAD BAY

This pristine bay on Lake Michigan with its 1.5 miles of shoreline (no pets, please), wide sandy beaches and great rock hunting lies at the park’s southern end. Access it from the main trailhead at the end of Densmore Road. Once you park your car, you’ll need to hike about a mile along the Lake Michigan Trail/Cathead Spur to reach the beach—a hike that’s well worth the effort!

Kid-friendly, by the water, remote islands … discover more camping adventures: link.mynorth.com/camp

This 1858 beauty has been fully restored. Climb 50 feet to the top of the tower for an unforgettable view of Lake Michigan, and tour the keeper’s quarters and exhibits that feature lighthouse history and archaeology, shipwrecks and area Native American settlements. And don’t miss the display on aircraft carriers that trained in Grand Traverse Bay during World War II or the Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV) used for finding shipwrecks, housed in a pool in the Fog Signal Building.

231.386.7195, grandtraverselighthouse.com Make camping reservations and view a trail map at michigan.gov/dnr.

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GRAND TRAVERSE LIGHTHOUSE

MYNORTH.COM

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KITCHEN, HOME, & GIFTS Celebrating 44 years

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‘UP NORTH KITCHEN STORE’ & MORE! Lakeside living and entertaining are the inspiration our practical and well-priced merchandise. You will enjoy our eclectic mix of helpful housewares, fine foods & great gifts...for the cook, the kids and the cottage.

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2022 MYNORTH

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Vacation!

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(231) 386-5529 PO Box 1 • Omena MI 49674

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Mackinac Island's Best Outdoor Dining & Activities.

Al fresco dining at 3 unique outlets • Bike rentals The only lakefront putt putt golf course on Mackinac Island Unforgettable picnic views on the Great Lawn • 81 iconic Adirondack chairs Lodging & Day Packages available Plan your 2022 vacation today!

One Lakeshore Drive, Mackinac Island, MI 49757 | missionpoint.com | 906.847.3000

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