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May has been proclaimed Michigan Wine Month by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. According to the official proclamation, Michigan's wine and wine grape industry contributes $5.4 billion in economic impact. That includes a whopping $253 million in tourism spending. It also supports more than 47,000 jobs. That makes it an industry worth honoring, and let’s face it, there are
The cold has come and gone all spring so far, but we’re finally heating things up with our 12 things to do in Michigan in May 2022. Flowers are blooming, boats are reappearing in our lakes, and a month of delightful experiences awaits. May 6-8 Glass Spring Fling – Dearborn Thankfully, the talented folks at Glass Academy have
If R&B group, TLC had ever visited the Upper Peninsula, I suspect they would not have been able to keep telling us, “Don’t Go Chasing Waterfalls.” Surrounded by fall color, on a hot summer day, or frozen solid, there is never a bad time to see a waterfall. Yet, spring is undoubtedly a special time to explore
The weather may not be fully cooperating yet, but spring is in full swing with our 12 things to do in Michigan in April 2022. Whether you’re more excited about Easter fun, dance parties, or beer at the ballpark, there’s something for you. April 8 Tigers Opening Day – Detroit It took a little while to get
Each spring, as the days get longer and the temperatures begin to rise, Michiganders head out into the woods to take part in the state’s oldest agricultural activity…tapping maple trees for sap to be turned into mouth-watering maple syrup, candies and other sweet treats. This year, 24 members of the Michigan Maple Syrup Association (spread out throughout
Our 12 things to do in Michigan in March 2022 focus on food, flutters and frivolity. March 1-April 30 Butterflies Are Blooming – Grand Rapids One of the most welcome signs of spring returns. The conservatory at Meijer Gardens heats up to welcome butterflies and winter-weary guests. You’ll feel like you’re in Florida with 85-degree temps and
Hugging the Lake Superior shore for a resplendent 42 miles, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of Michigan’s most precious gems. There are waterfalls to explore, trails to trek, and incredible vistas in nearly any direction. The area welcomed a record 1.2 million visitors in 2020. Naturally that raised some questions about care and safety. Consequently, an
Our state is a winter wonderland for a little while longer, so get out and enjoy these 12 things to do in Michigan in February 2022. February 3-6 Michigan International Auto Show – Grand Rapids After a year of interruption, this popular showcase of available vehicles is back. Visitors will find trucks, SUV's, crossovers, hybrids, electrics, luxury
Our 12 things to do in Michigan in January 2022 are centered around the great outdoors. It’s time to embrace our winter wonderland. January 11 Gallery Chat: Michigan Arts & Artists – Grand Rapids No matter the season, Michigan is home to majestic landscapes, intriguing communities, and talented artists. During this Gallery Chat at the Grand Rapids
Not surprisingly, our 12 things to do in Michigan in December 2021 is all about the holidays. Whether you long for lights, songs, or shops, we've got you covered, and then some. Dec 1-18 Dashing Through the Snow – Marshall How about an original theatrical production to put an extra spark in your holiday fire? This show
Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced today that 16 communities were awarded a 2021 Recreation Passport grant. The Recreation Passport grant program started 11 years ago. It aims to boost visitation and funding for Michigan's state parks as well as local, community parks and trails. This year’s grants include a total investment
Lights are going up, shopping is on everyone’s list, and Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Enjoy some special time with family and friends, perhaps at our 12 things to do in Michigan in November 2021. Nov 1-15 IllumiZoo Wild Hues – Grand Rapids Zoos take on a completely different demeanor as night begins to fall. Crowds
A great animated film delights the kids, with plenty of other elements that parents can enjoy as well. These Halloween events are in that same vein. The scare level is low enough that your kids can sleep at night, but they, and you, will have plenty of fun at Michigan’s best family-friendly Halloween destinations. Hallowe’en at Greenfield
The air is finally crisp, the leaves are beginning to turn, and cider mills are open. Another glorious autumn is upon us so here are our 12 things to do in Michigan in October 2021. October 1-24 Zoorasic Park – Battle Creek Perhaps the only thing that could make a zoo more exciting to kids is the
When travelers cross the Ambassador Bridge into the United States, they land immediately in Mexicantown. I don’t know about you, but I find that a bit amusing. Can’t help but wonder if it has ever confused anyone to be greeted by Mexican flags when entering the U.S. Unfortunately, these days, there are less people crossing that border.
Meteorologists and students may have reason to believe summer is over, but is it? The weather still allows for plenty of summer fun, yet the calendar hints at fall. Decide for yourself. Here are our 12 things to do in Michigan in September 2021. Be sure to check with organizers in advance to make sure of any
There’s often a debate over whether or not one person can really make a difference. That question has been solved with a resounding yes when it comes to a roadside attraction near Marquette. With just a simple idea, and a fair amount of land, Tom Lakenen has been able to create lifelong memories for passing travelers, as
Vehicles, music, foods, even the wild and wacky, take center stage this month around the state. Get your summer fun on at some of these intriguing events. Here are our 12 things to do in Michigan in August 2021. July 30-August 8 Coast Guard Festival – Grand Haven Of all the summer festivals, this is one of
Summer wouldn’t be the same without indulging in some sweet, cold, creamy, decadent treats, but how far would you go to satisfy a craving for creamy, dreamy, greatness? Whether you prefer a cup or a cone, vanilla or chocolate, toppings or plain, these little shops are waiting to delight you, and they are worthy of a road
Michigan’s Lower Peninsula has an obvious resemblance to a hand, making the region around Port Austin the tip of the Thumb. It is an area riddled with small towns you may not have heard of like Ubly, Pigeon and Sebewaing, along with wind farms, and plenty of access to lovely Lake Huron. You can get to the
Our state has reopened and many of our favorite events are back. Summer hits full swing this month with fireworks, parades, and plenty of beach time. Here are our 12 things to do in Michigan in July 2021. July 9-11 Blake’s Lavender Festival – Armada It’s lavender season and it smells so good! Take a tranquility break
If there’s one thing we’ve all learned from this pandemic (and let’s hope there’s at least one lesson), it’s that time spent together is an invaluable gift. That’s why this year we’re suggesting some unique ways to create memories with the dads and other influential men in your life in celebration of Father’s Day. We recognize that
It’s warm, sunny, and we appear to be seeing a light at the end of the pandemic tunnel. Restrictions are easing. So, for the first time in over a year, our suggestions of things to do includes all live events. Get out and enjoy life this month! Here are our 12 things to do in Michigan in
Most Michigan tourist towns have a frontier history, and Traverse City is no different. The Cherry Capital of the World is young compared to other Michigan cities, like Mackinaw, Detroit and Grand Rapids, but it still holds a rich history. I recently brought my eighth grade students to the city for a field trip and was reminded
May is Michigan Wine Month and a great time to explore the budding greenery of the countryside. Why not pair your weekend retreat with some fine wine? Michigan’s flourishing grape industry is not only producing more award-winning wines than ever before, it has sprouted a booming addition to our tourism industry. While wineries and tasting rooms can
