Things to do in Northern Michigan
Few places can compete with the natural beauty of Northern Michigan. Crystal clear lakes, lush forests, and breathtaking sunsets are what keep people visiting the area year round! Here are some activities and attractions that everyone can enjoy...
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses 71,000 acres of Lake Michigan shoreline and wooded areas. Within the park, there are several attractions for each of the four seasons! The Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Maritime Museum, Glen Haven, the Manitou Islands, and the Visitor Center are each unique! The Crystal and Platte Rivers provide perfect waters for canoeing and kayaking (rentals available) and there are several public beaches on Lake Michigan and the inland lakes! Also within the park are almost 15 nature trails for hiking and cross-country skiing! Winter is great for ice fishing, ice skating, and snowmobiling. Also popular, are color tours and hunting in the fall and wildflower spotting in the spring! This is all waiting for you in the National Lakeshore!
The quaint towns of the north are always filled with activities! Antiquing, wine tasting, and gift shopping are all available. Don't miss all the great food served at local restaurants either! Catch a flick at The Bay or the Cherry Bowl Drive-In. Listen to a concert at the Interlochen Arts Academy or the Leelanau Sands Casino. Don't forget about downhill skiing in the winter! Also, throughout the year, many of the towns have weekend or week long celebrations that provide fun for all ages.Traverse City, the Cherry Capital of the world, is always lively and it's the closest "big city." The National Cherry Festival provides a week full of parades, concerts, and family fun the first week of July! If you're looking for hustle and bustle, this is the place in Northern Michigan. Check out the great shops on Front
Street, visit the Open Space downtown for ever changing festivals, or bike along the VASA trail. There's something for everyone in T.C.!Phew, as if that weren't enough, there's more! Mackinac Island is world-famous and it's nearby! Marinas, guided tours, unique shops, museums, lighthouses, and restaurants are abundant! We can help you if you are interested in specific activities during your vacation-just let us know and we will make arrangements! There is so much to enjoy, try and fit it all in! Stop in our downtown Traverse City office and pick up information to guide you around our area. While you are here, let us help you find a cottage rental in this terrific area.
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