Tag Archives: Adrienne Brown-Reasner

Christmas around West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Holidays, Kids Activities, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, ,
Santa comes to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park (Supplied/Dean VanDis)

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


From parades to light shows, holiday artist markets to cookie tours, traditional holiday celebrations to Christmas festivals, there is no shortage of West Michigan events to get you in the holiday spirit this month!


Be sure to also check out where you can find a Santa Sighting and gift ideas from our Holiday Gift Guide.


Find more events at the WMTA Event Calendar.

Zeeland

The Critter Barn in Zeeland invites you to the 20th annual Live Nativity, held Tuesdays-Saturdays through Dec. 28th. Visit the Critter Barn animals, including sheep, goats, and cows, and take photos of the scene in the historic barn.

Holland 

The Holland Museum will be celebrating a Victorian Christmas at the Cappon House Dec. 14th and 15th, noon-4pm. Enjoy a tour of the opulent home while learning how yuletide celebrations have changed in the last 100 years. Visitors can also create traditional decorations, sample holiday sweets, sing along to Christmas tunes on the piano, capture a loved one’s affection under the kissing ball, and more. This event is appropriate for the whole family, with activities aimed at both adults and children ages 5 and up. Advance registration is strongly encouraged. Admission is $8.00 per person for museum members, $10.00 per person for non-members, free for ages 5 and under.


Stop by the Sneaky Elves Workshop Dec. 20th, noon–3pm, and Dec. 21st, 10am–3pm, at the Holland Area Arts Council. Children will be led through the creation and wrapping of a handmade gift so that they can take part in the giving this holiday season! Parents can drop their kids off and go shopping in Downtown Holland or stay and participate in the fun. 


Experience an authentic European-style open-air Christmas market with handcrafted items, delicious food and artisan demonstrations at Kerstmarkt in Downtown Holland. Open Friday and Saturday Dec. 14th and 15th at the 8th Street Marketplace. 

It’s a Wonderful Life

Presented by the Holland Civic Theatre, It’s a Wonderful Life, brings the classic holiday film to life in Holland Dec. 13th and 14th.


Still on the hunt for the perfect holiday gift? Then don’t miss the Downtown Holland Shopping Jam on Saturday, Dec. 14th! Participating stores will open early for this special savings event. The earlier you shop, the more you save! During the Shopping Jam, merchants will be offering discounts of 30% off from 8-9am and 25% off from 9-10am. Discounted merchandise will vary by store, but will include a discount off at least one item. Please see the participating businesses for savings details. The Shopping Jam is sponsored by Downtown Holland’s own Horizon Bank.


Just because summer’s over doesn’t mean that you can’t fill your table with fresh, local and healthy food. The Holland Farmers Market is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am-3pm though Saturday, Dec. 21st. Stop by to pick up everything you need to make your family’s favorite holiday dishes or to decorate your home for the holidays.

Muskegon

A holiday tradition returns to the Muskegon Carr-Fles Planetarium with Mystery of the Christmas Star! Tuesday, Dec. 10th, and Thursday, Dec. 12th. No reservations are needed for this free, 30-minute show in room 1072 at Muskegon Community College. 


Experience the 19th-century Hackley & Hume homes of Lakeshore Museum Center in Muskegon decorated beautifully for the holidays by Muskegon’s local community groups with period-appropriate artifacts, ornaments and more! Tickets can be purchased at the door and are $10 per person, $8 for seniors 65+ and $5 for Kids ages 2-12. Tour dates and times are Dec. 14th, 21st, and 27th from 4-8pm, and Dec. 28th from 1-4pm.

Grand Rapids

Gerald R Ford Presidential Museum presents Season’s Greetings from the White House, with Mary Evans Seeley, Dec. 12th at 7pm. Mary Evans Seeley is a collector, historian, lecturer, author and publisher of two books about Christmas at the White House. She has the most extensive collection of Presidential Christmas memorabilia in the country. Her book, Season’s Greetings from the White House is now in its eighth edition. It tells the stories of Christmas at the White House from Calvin Coolidge through Donald J. Trump. Join the museum as she documents nearly a century of presidential Christmases. Books will be available for purchase and signing after the event. The event is free with open seating. Registrations are appreciated.

Holiday Traditions (Courtesy Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park)

Excitement surrounds this time of year as the annual Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition brings the glow of over 300,000 colorful lights, strolling carolers, visits from Santa, rooftop reindeer, and 46 international trees and displays to Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. Ring in the season with a beloved winter exhibition. Honoring holiday cultures around the world, Meijer Gardens focuses on the authenticity of the symbols of beloved holiday traditions – it’s an idyllic spot to center your thoughts on the true meaning of the holidays. The Holiday Traditions exhibition will be on display through Jan. 5, 2020. 


Join the Grand Rapids Public Museum on Dec. 20th and 21st to enjoy listening to live holiday classics at the Holiday Classics Organ Concert performed by Dave Wickerman on the Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ. This experience is fun for the entire family! 


This holiday season, visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum from Dec. 21st through Jan. 5th to experience Snowflake Break. Fun for the entire family, visitors will make themed crafts, play games, and explore the museum. Snowflake Break is included with your ticket purchase. Additionally, see historic Grand Rapids built from LEGO® bricks, complete with operating trams, showcasing Grand Rapids during the early 20th century. Take pictures with the Herpolsheimer’s Child Passenger Train, see 15 historic Santas from around the world, and find 12 elves hidden throughout the Museum. Visit the GRPM’s Planetarium to see Let it Snow, featuring festive classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee, with a stunning finale by the Trans Siberian Orchestra. Tickets are $4 each with general admission to the Museum, free to Museum members and $5 each for planetarium only tickets. Let It Snow showings run through Jan. 5th. As an annual tradition, visitors will be able to view and take pictures with the Herpolsheimer’s train throughout the holiday season. Recognizable to any baby-boomer, the train chugged along the ceiling of the toy department at the Herpolsheimer’s Department Store. 


DeVos Performance Hall and Van Andel Arena in Grand Rapids have a number of Christmas events this season:

  • Grand Rapids Ballet presents The Nutcracker at DeVos Performance Hall, Friday, Dec. 13th at 7:30pm, Saturday, Dec. 14th at 2pm & 7:30pm, Sunday, Dec. 15th at 1pm & 5:30pm, and the following weekend, Friday, Dec. 20th at 7:30pm, Saturday, Dec. 21st at 2pm & 7:30pm, and Sunday, Dec. 22 at 1pm. West Michigan’s favorite holiday tradition returns to the grandeur of DeVos Performance Hall with sets by famed children’s book author and illustrator Chris Van Allsburg (The Polar Express, Jumanji), Broadway-quality set design by Tony Award winner Eugene Lee (Wicked, Sweeney Todd, Saturday Night Live), choreography by Val Caniparoli, and the live music of your Grand Rapids Symphony. Don’t miss the magic!
  • Grand Rapids Symphony presents Old National Bank Cirque de Noel at DeVos Performance Hall, Wednesday, Dec. 18th at 7:30pm and Thursday, Dec. 19th at 7:30pm. Since 2009, Cirque de la Symphonie has spent part of each Christmas season in Grand Rapids. Celebrating its 10th annual Cirque de Noel with the Grand Rapids Symphony, Cirque de la Symphonie’s company of acrobats, jugglers, contortionists and aerial artists makes merry with amazing feats of agility and strength, accompanied by beloved Christmas songs and classical favorites. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com and in person at the Van Andel Arena and DeVos Place box offices.

Find the perfect holiday wreath or tree for your home at Grand Rapids Downtown Market Christmas Tree Lot, hosted by Lenderink Tree Farms, Wednesdays and Fridays: 4-7:00pm, and Saturdays & Sundays 10am-6pm through Dec. 15th.

West Michigan Santa sightings

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Holidays, Kids Activities, Upcoming Events, ,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


He’s made his list, he’s checked it twice, and he’s making a few last-minute stops in West Michigan before his big sleigh ride on Christmas Eve! Here’s a few places you can spot Santa Claus and his friends this month.

Santa’s Central West Michigan stops

All visitors are welcome to share their holiday wishes with Santa at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. Remember to bring your camera for a Santa selfie or a photo with him on his sleigh. Santa will be located in the Peter C. & Emajean (Pat) Cook Entry Arbor Dec. 3rd, 10th, and 17th from 5-8pm.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Join the Grand Rapids Public Museum for a special morning with Santa & Mrs. Claus for pictures, breakfast, Let it Snow in the Planetarium, a holiday gift, and endless exploration of the museum all day. This holiday fundraiser supports exhibitions and programming at the museum. Celebrate the holidays with the GRPM through this exclusive experience. Tickets are limited and can be purchased at grpm.org or by calling 616.929.1700. Breakfast with Santa will have two sessions on Dec. 14th, at 8:30am and again at 10am.


Stop by the Grand Rapids Downtown Market to visit the big guy himself 2-6pm on Dec. 14th and 15th. Bring your wish list to ensure you land on Santa’s ‘nice’ list this year.


Enjoy brunch with Santa at Wheelhouse Kitchen & Cocktails in Grand Rapids Dec. 14th & 15th. The event includes a delicious brunch buffet, professional photos with Santa, cookie decorating, kids activities, and more. Brunch is $29.95 for adults and $14.95 for kids.


Santa arrives in Downtown Holland, escorted by bands, floats, trucks, family, and friends all decked out in thousands of sparkling holiday lights during the Parade of Lights, Dec. 3rd! More than 80 entries will illuminate the streets of Downtown Holland. At the end of the parade, Santa will greet his fans — young and old alike! The parade begins at 8th Street and Columbia Avenue and continues on to the Eighth Street Market Place, home of the Holiday Kerstmarkt.


Visit Santa Claus at Santa’s House in Downtown Holland through Dec. 23rd. There is no charge to sit on Santa’s lap, but be sure to bring your own camera for photos.


You’ll find Santa in Grand Haven Main Street’s Centertown (7th Street Corridor) 11am-2pm on Dec. 14th at a number of participating merchants. 


Santa and his elves are coming to the Cartier Mansion in Ludington on Dec. 7th to help support the Ludington Cares program. Cookies and hot cocoa will be provided, and don’t forget your camera for pictures with Santa! Cash donations will be accepted to help purchase winter gear, toiletries and non-perishable food items for the Ludington and Scottville Cares boxes.


Visit with Santa Claus and have your photo taken at the Ludington Library, Dec. 7th, 10am-3pm.


Santa Claus is coming to the White Lake Christmas Parade on Dec. 7th! Over 50 participants will line up and follow the parade route from Whitehall to Montague along Colby Street. The 67th annual parade promises to provide excitement with floats from area churches, civic organizations, businesses, area neighbors, cartoon characters, clowns, parading fire trucks, and animals of all shapes and sizes, all handing out candy and goodies. As the Grand Finale, Santa will make his entrance with a horse drawn carriage. He will be eager to see children of all ages following the parade at his house outside Montague City Hall located on Ferry St. 


There will be plenty of opportunities to visit Santa in Mecosta County. He will be hopping from storefront to storefront through Dec. 21st. All of the times and information about catching Santa in downtown Big Rapids can be found on the Mecosta County community events calendar.


Visit with Santa at his home at Town Center in Downtown Mt. Pleasant the weekends leading up to Christmas. Click here for the Santa Visits schedule. Stop by to eat pancakes with Santa at the pancake breakfast Saturday, Dec. 7th, during the Mt. Pleasant Christmas Celebration.

Santa’s South West Michigan Stops

The city of Marshall keeps Santa Claus busy. He’ll be popping up at different stores in the quaint downtown all throughout December. Kids will want to bring their wish lists, but it’s also a good excuse to get some holiday shopping done. In locally owned stores, you’ll find outdoor gear, stationary, mandolins, plants, Michigan-themed housewares, natural dog treats, books, and more. For a complete list of Santa sightings, go to choosemarshall.com.


Grandma’s Treats and Toys in Marshall is going to celebrate the elves (not Santa) with an Elf Party — after all, it’s the elves who do the hard work of making the toys. There will be activities and ice cream sundaes. It’ll be held in the toy store’s new Party and Play location. From 9am to 1pm, Mondays through Fridays, kids can use the play stations and toys.


Christmas comes alive during the annual Quincy Lights & Holiday Market in Coldwater Country, Friday, Dec. 6th, as Santa arrives in town. Kids will enjoy cooking, decorating, games, crafts, and of course, visiting with Santa at the Quincy Fire Station.


Head to downtown Coldwater on Saturday, Dec. 7th for the annual Christmas Parade and a visit to Santaland. Tree-lit streets, bands playing Christmas carols, children anxiously awaiting a glimpse of Santa, and more await you during the magic of the holidays in Coldwater.


Enjoy the sights and sounds of a steam engine train in the winter with a ride aboard The Christmas Express at Coldwater Country’s Little River Railroad. Visit with Santa on the train, enjoy holiday treats, and a Christmas tour of the depot on Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 7th & 8th, and 14th & 15th. 

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Have brunch with Santa at Plank’s Tavern at The Inn at Harbor Shores in St. Joseph Dec. 8th and 21st. Reservations are recommended. 


Picture perfect holiday fun is available weekends in December in downtown St. Joseph. Santa’s house, located on the corner of State and Pleasant Streets will be open Thursdays & Fridays 4-6pm, Saturdays noon-5pm, and Sundays 1-5pm through Dec. 23rd. 


Airway Fun Center in Portage will be hosting Breakfast and Bowling with Santa, Dec. 22nd from 9am-noon. Admission to the event is $15 per person and comes with unlimited bowling, shoe rental, and all you can eat breakfast buffet as well as a visit from Old St. Nick. Seats can be reserved in advance or at the door the day of the event. 


On Dec. 7th, Santa stops by Crane’s Pie Pantry in Fennville noon-3pm. Come by and whisper in his ear what you want for Christmas!  



Thanksgiving events around west Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Food, Holidays, Kids Activities, Senior Living, Upcoming Events,
Courtesy Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant and Winery

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Thanksgiving is coming up Nov. 28th, and whether you are looking for a turkey dinner, a special holiday weekend getaway, or some unique events to celebrate the day, West Michigan has you covered. You’ll find special shopping events, festivals, Thanksgiving Day races, buffets, ready-made dinner options, Small Business Saturday deals, light shows, and more throughout the month to help make your holiday one to remember. 

Thanksgiving brunch, dinner, and buffets

If there’s one holiday you would associate with Crane’s Pie Pantry Restaurant and Winery in Fennville, it’s Thanksgiving. Their famous homemade fruit pies are a perfect addition to any gathering around your family table. Crane’s will take orders for baked pies for your Thanksgiving feast up until Tuesday, Nov. 26th for a Wednesday pick-up. This year, in addition to the traditional pumpkin and apple pies, they are offering an extremely limited new Pumpkin Praline Pie, featuring layers of house-made cream cheese and pumpkin filling in their famous pie crust topped with a praline crumble. If you’re thinking of adding it to your Thanksgiving order, call Crane’s at 269.561.2297 to place your order before they run out.


Let Muskegon’s SE4SONS Gastropub create your Thanksgiving dinner. Chef Jeremy and his staff will prepare a wonderful meal, complete with all the fixings, cooking and reheating instructions, and a food thermometer. Choose your menu and place your order by Nov. 22nd and pick up your Thanksgiving meal Wednesday, Nov. 27th between 2-4pm. 


Let RedWater Restaurant Group handle the cooking this Thanksgiving. Enjoy salads, roasted turkey, carved ham, prime rib or sirloin, other entrees, side dishes, desserts, and more at one of six available Thanksgiving buffets throughout Grand Rapids and Holland. Reservations are limited with seating every half hour. Visit www.redwaterrestaurantgroup.com/ for more information, or call the restaurant of your choice to reserve your spot. RedWater Restaurant locations include Cork Wine & Grille in Cascade, FireRock Grille in Caledonia, Reds at Thousand Oaks in Grand Rapids, Rush Creek Bistro in Grandville, RedRock Grille in Holland, and Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant in Holland.

Thanksgiving weekend events

The Zeeland Turkey Trot 8K will begin at 8am Thanksgiving morning. The race begins in the middle of downtown Zeeland and will take runners through the downtown streets. This year’s event will be capped at 1,500 runners, so be sure to sign up in advance. 


Muskegon’s 10th Annual Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot takes place on the Lakeshore Bike Trail and the Muskegon Community College Fitness Center beginning at 9am. This family friendly 5K is the perfect way to jump-start Thanksgiving morning. Get festive, wear a turkey hat, and earn that extra helping at Thanksgiving dinner. 


Join the Grand Rapids Public Museum for the Planetarium Double Feature showing of The Queen Light Show and Dark Side: The Light Show in the Roger B. Chaffee Planetarium on Friday, Nov. 29th at 7pm. Music enthusiasts will rock out to the music of Queen and Pink Floyd paired with stunning visuals on the planetarium dome. A cash bar will be available before the first show and during a short intermission. Tickets to the Planetarium Double Features will include both light shows, and are $8 for non-members, $4 for members.

Courtesy City of Zeeland

Light up the season during the official lighting of the South Haven community holiday tree at Holiday in the Park, Nov. 29th in Dyckman Park. Ice skating, karaoke, Santa Paws Pet Parade, luminaries, holiday treats, and more will jump-start the holiday spirit and make memories you can reminisce on for years to come. 


This Small Business Saturday, the Downtown Holland merchants want to thank the entire community for supporting small business all year round! On Saturday, Nov. 30th, head to Downtown Holland to enjoy a day full of shopping small, fun giveaways, amazing contests, and free Small Business Saturday swag from American Express!

November events to kick off the holiday season

Shop till you drop along Grand Haven Main Street. Stay up late, shop the night away, and save big on all of your holiday gifts Friday, Nov. 8th, 7-10pm. Get your holiday shopping off to an early start and take advantage of the progressive discounts offered by participating merchants. Up to 20% off from 7-8pm, up to 25% off from 8-9pm, and up to 30% off from 9-10pm. Check with participating stores for details.


Get an early start to your holiday shopping… by staying up late. On Friday, Nov. 8th, participating Downtown Holland businesses will stay open late with amazing saving deals from 7-10pm. Make a night of it with dinner and drinks at one of Downtown Holland’s local restaurants or breweries and then get ready to shop and save big with discounts up to 30% for one night only.


Just because summer’s over doesn’t mean that you can’t fill your table with fresh, local and healthy food. The Holland Farmers Market is open every Wednesday and Saturday from 8am-3pm through Saturday, Dec. 21. Stop by to pick up everything you need to make your family’s favorite Thanksgiving dishes or to decorate your home for the holidays. You’ll find apples, squash, onions, potatoes, carrots, brussels sprouts, cheeses, meats, baked goods, and more at the Market, along with pumpkins, hay bales, corn shocks, wreaths, and greenery.


Nov. 9th at 11am is Family Day at Krasl Art Center in St. Joseph. Family Days give adults and children time to learn and create side-by-side in these mini art activities at Krasl Art Center. Practice the art of decorating sugar cookies, while also getting to enjoy your delicious and ephemeral work of art. 


SE4SONS Gastropub at Muskegon Country Club will be hosting a Holiday Wine Tasting Event Nov. 15th to help you find the perfect bottle to bring to your holiday events. 


The holiday season officially begins in Downtown Holland during the annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 5-8pm. Stroll the decorated streets, enjoy the sounds of carolers singing, pose for a photograph with Santa and his favorite elf, visit the reindeer at the petting corral, and even sample a roasted chestnut. Participating businesses will have holiday merchandise on display and will be offering complimentary holiday refreshments while you shop. And don’t miss the official lighting of the Downtown Holland Christmas tree and the Christmas carol sing-along at the end of the night.


Yuletide classics trumpet the crisp air, welcoming families to holiday activities held during Dowagiac’s Christmas Open House in Southwest Michigan Saturday, Nov. 16th, from 10am to 2pm. Jolly Ole St. Nick greets children within the elegant indoor setting of Wood Fire Italian Trattoria. Enjoy the warm surroundings of the Pompeii Room, where children receive a gift from St. Nick. 


Kick off the holiday season right by heading to Lansing on Friday Nov. 22 (the week before Thanksgiving) for Silver Bells in the City. The city will glow with thousands of lights, bringing together family and friends from across Michigan and beyond. The Electric Light Parade, Silver Bells Village, lighting of the State Christmas Tree, fireworks over the Capitol dome, and musical entertainment are all part of this Lansing tradition. 

Courtesy St. Joseph Today

The Muskegon Museum of Art Festival of Trees returns Nov. 20th through Dec. 1st for its 15th year as a community holiday tradition. Professionally-designed themed trees and décor will be available for purchase through silent auction over the 11 days of the Festival. Raffles, music, holiday shopping, and special events will add to the fun. Special events include the popular Teddy Bear Breakfast, visits with Santa, Deck Your Halls decorating demo workshop, a holiday concert with Max & Ruth Bloomquist and Julia and the Greensides, Family Day, and Senior Day. Festival admission is $10 for adults, $5 for Museum members, $3 for children 3-17 years old, and free for children under 3. An All-Festival Pass is available for $15. The Muskegon Museum of Art Festival of Trees is open daily 10am-5pm, Sundays noon-5pm. MMA will be closed Thanksgiving day.  


Experience an authentic European open-air Christmas market filled with handcrafted holiday items, delicious food, and artisan demonstrations at Holland’s Kerstmarkt 8th Street Marketplace. Open Fridays and Saturdays Nov. 23rd-Dec. 14th. 


Keyed to the music of the holiday season, Let It Snow light show at Grand Rapids Public Museum features a variety of festive classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee. It includes a stunning multimedia finale by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The soundtrack is visually enhanced with thematic animation, laser imagery, and special effects. Great for all ages, especially families, the show runs Nov. 29th through Jan. 5th. 


The Zeeland City Christmas tree and Magical Christmas Parade bring the holiday season downtown on Dec. 2nd beginning at 6:15pm.




Halloween fun around West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities,
Courtesy Lewis Farms & Petting Zoo

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


From costume contests to fall festivals, spooky performances to trick-or-treat events, West Michigan is celebrating Halloween all month long. You’ll find family friendly events, adult only parties, pumpkin carving, haunted trails, and more.

Trick or Treat Events

South West Michigan


The 12th Annual Spooky Science Saturday, a free trick-or-treating event, will be held Saturday, Oct. 19th from 11am to 3pm on the grounds of the Kingman Museum and Leila Arboretum and Kaleidoscope Garden in Battle Creek. The event–held rain or shine–is aimed at children 6 to 12 years old, but whole families are welcome. Don’t forget to dress up in your favorite costume and enjoy $1 hayrides through the Arboretum. Parking available at Northwestern Middle School (176 Limit St) or the Kaleidoscope Garden at 928 W. Michigan.


Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings hosts the Candlelight Trails: Trick-or-Treat on the Trails on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 6-9pm. Dress up your little “boos” and “ghouls” and come out for Halloween fun on candlelit trails. After hiking the trails, head inside the Visitor Center for hot chocolate, warm coffee, snacks, and fall-themed activities around a crackling fire. Members $6, Non-Members $8, Family $25.


Join the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven on Halloween for a free Trick-or-Treating family event from 4-6pm. This event is for kids ages toddler to 10 years old. Children must be in costume and be accompanied by an adult.


Spooky decorations and family-friendly fun await you this Halloween at the downtown South Haven Trick-or-Treating event, Oct. 31st beginning at 5pm.


Central West Michigan


Come to Downtown Holland Saturday, Oct. 26th, 10am-noon, and spend the morning trick-or-treating with your children at participating stores along 8th Street.


Enjoy Halloween fun at the Holland Museum, with trick-or-treating in the exhibits, flashlight tours of the Dutch Galleries, fun games, and spooky crafts at “Monsters at the Museum”, Saturday, Oct. 26th, 11am-4pm. Come prepared with a flashlight and camera. Not recommended for children 8 years old and under.


Zeeland’s Main Street Trick or Treat event presented by West Michigan Community Bank will take place Oct. 31st from 3-5pm in downtown Zeeland; Main Street will be closed between Elm Street and Church Street. Held rain or shine, this event invites children to participate instead of or in addition to the city-wide Trick or Treating, which is scheduled from 5-8pm.


Put on your costume and celebrate Halloween at the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. Trick-or-treat your way through two floors of hands-on exhibits, featuring special spooky crafts and activities, Oct. 31st, with $1.75 admission from 5-8pm.


Zoo Goes Boo is six days of trick-or-treating, costumes, entertainment, cool decorations, games, and fun at John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids–and the animals get treats, too! Wear your costume, the Zoo will provide the candy. Please bring your own reusable bag for trick-or-treating, or purchase one from the gift shop. Zoo Goes Boo runs Oct. 18th-20th and Oct. 25th-27th, 10am-4pm. Tickets are $12.00 for adults, $10.00 for children, college students, and seniors, and free for zoo members.  


Bring the kids for free trick or treating at Muskegon’s South Pierhead Light on Oct. 26th. Kids who come in costumes (safe for climbing) can stay and climb for free in the company of an adult (admission fees apply to adults). Join in games and prize giveaways for best costume, chosen every hour by a different Lighthouse Keeper. 


Attention all Monsters and Goblins, Mermaids and Super Heroes, and all the ghosts in between: Grand Haven Main Street’s Annual Trick or Treating night is Thursday, Oct. 31st. Local businesses will provide treats for all those brave enough to endure the mystical streets of Downtown Grand Haven from 4-5:30pm on Washington Ave. from 3rd Street to Harbor Drive. 


Bring the kids to Mt. Pleasant in their costumes Oct. 31st from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm for trick-or-treating at downtown businesses at the Pumpkin Promenade.

Halloween Tours & Trails

Get in the Halloween mood with a spooky West Michigan Beer Tours Halloween Beer Tour on Oct. 25th in Kalamazoo to try some great fall seasonal beers and enjoy a night of frights, flights, and fun.


Discover the magic of Victorian Halloween traditions and superstitions this fall at the Holland Museum’s Cappon House. Tour the dimly lit rooms of the Cappon House to learn how Halloween was celebrated 100 years ago, then partake in spooky parlor games and broom races, listen to classic ghost stories, have your fortune told, and carve a mini pumpkin to take home. Visit the Halloween Haunts Oct. 18th and 19th, 6-8pm; tickets $8.00 per person for members, $10.00 for non-members, and children ages 5 and under are free. 

Performances & Exhibitions

Our Town Players present Harvest Horror, a collection of psychological thrillers, Oct. 18th and 19th at the Masonic Temple in South Haven. Performances begin at 7:30pm, box office opens at 7pm.


The Barn Theatre School in Augusta just announced two special weekend performances of The Rocky Horror Show, on stage Oct. 18th through 20th and Oct. 25th through the 27th.


The Grand Rapids Public Museum hosts a special Halloween-themed Mighty Wurlitzer Organ Concert by Dale Zieger accompanying the 1920 silent film “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” Oct. 18th at 7pm and Oct. 19th at 2pm. 

Costume parties & parades

Get creative at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park’s Hallo-Wee Ones event in Grand Rapids, a special event designed for the youngest visitors, Oct. 25th, 10am-noon. Dress your child as a sculpture, mammal, fish, insect, bird, tree, flower, geologist, or any other way that highlights something about the Children’s Garden and participate in one of two costume parades, held at 10:15am and 11:15am.


Save the date for one of the most popular parties of the year! Just Wicked will be held Saturday, Oct. 26th in the International Ballroom at the JW Marriott Grand Rapids. The first 50 guests at the door will be greeted with a specialty cocktail crafted for the event. Costume contest for cash prizes and indulgent extras will bring out the competitive spirit in you. Costume contest winners to be announced at approximately 10:45pm. Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the door (if tickets are still available). Must be 21 years of age to attend.

Courtesy Saugatuck-Douglas Convention & Visitors Bureau

There’s really no better place to be during Halloween than in Saugatuck/Douglas. While you will find many family friendly events, the show-stopper is the Adult Halloween Parade in downtown Douglas. This year’s parade will take place Oct. 26th. No sign-up required to join the parade, just come in costume and line up starting at 9:30pm to wait for the Pumpkin King to start the parade at 10pm.


Bring your furry friend to downtown South Haven all dressed up and ready to show off for the Pet Costume Parade 11am Oct. 20th. Prizes for the pet costumes that are the scariest, funniest and matching their owner.

Escape Rooms & Murder Mystery Dinners

Looking for a night filled with suspense, entertainment, and a fabulous meal? Take a crack at solving a ‘murder mystery’ while you feast on a meal that’s to die for Friday, Nov. 1st, at the W.K. Kellogg Manor House in Augusta. Guests may arrive at 5:30pm for a docent-led tour of the Manor House and the dinner and program will begin at 6:30pm.

Festivals, Races, and Other Special Events

Mark your calendar for Spooky Sip and Paint with Star Buxum, Oct. 16th at 7pm at Stella’s Lounge in Grand Rapids. Join local drag queen and artist Star Buxom as she takes over a paint and sip class you will not forget. Get ready for crude humor, vulgar language, messy sing-alongs, strong drinks, and fabulous art with a Halloween theme. Your $35 ticket includes an 11×14 canvas board, a well drink or draft PBR, an appetizer, painting instruction, and a good time. Reserve your spot today


It’s a date night for the whole family at the Lakeshore Museum Center in Muskegon, Oct. 18th, featuring extended museum hours with fun stations and themes. Smashing Pumpkins Friday Family Fun Night will feature the museum-built trebuchet.


It’s that time of year for all things pumpkin — pumpkin donuts, pumpkin pie, pumpkin chucking, and of course, the pumpkin patch, at The Great Pumpkin Festival, Oct. 19th and 20th at Lewis Farms & Petting Zoo in New Era. Come back the next weekend, Oct. 26th and 27th, for Halloween Extravaganza with wagon rides, apple cannons, U-pick pumpkins, and “Disc Dogs Live”.


Prepare yourself for fall flavors and fright-filled nights at Haven Harvest! Taste the flavors of fall as hayrides roll, pumpkins fly, and headless horseman ride. Experience a true South Haven harvest with apple orchards, bonfires, pumpkin chunkin’, and delicious good-as-grandma’s pies. Grab some cider, dance to live music, and see South Haven transform during Haven Harvest, Oct. 18th through 20th. 


BOO on Your Bike will take place Oct. 20th, 1-3pm, on the Kal-Haven Trail in South Haven. This free annual event invites riders of all ages to dress up in costume and get out for a scenic fall bicycle ride on the Kal-Haven Trail starting at the South Haven trail head.


Experience the magic of science this Halloween season at the Air Zoo in Portage. Visit Oct. 26th from 10am-3pm for the first-ever Ice Cream Challenge event, where West Michigan teams will use the power of liquid nitrogen to transform flavors and ingredients into frozen treats to taste. Your votes decide the winner of this epic culinary battle, powered by spooky science.


Come to the Stella’s Lounge in Grand Rapids Nov. 1st at 10pm as they kick off their Halloween party in the front bar. Terrified of clowns, toys and dolls? Head to the back bar with DJ Chowdur and dance your fears away. $5 cover and food and beverage specials throughout the night.


West Michigan fall color tours

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, ,
Courtesy Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


As the days get cooler, the autumn landscape blooms with golds, oranges, and reds of the changing leaves. From scenic drives along the Lake Michigan shoreline to winding trails through the inland forests, West Michigan celebrates the colors of the season with color tours, unique viewing experiences, and special fall stops along the way. 

Driving, biking, and walking color tours 

Jump into the car, onto a bike, or motorcycle and wander along the Harbor Country Fall Motor Tour. You’ll find easy stops to shop, pick a pumpkin or grapes, and ease back with great eats and an end-of-ride drink along the routes that runs between New Buffalo, Three Oaks, Union Pier, Lakeside, and Bridgman in Southwest Michigan.


The best places to view the fall colors in South Haven are on the nature trails. Hike or bike the Kal-Haven and Van Buren Trails, or kayak the Bangor/South Haven Heritage Water Trail under a canopy of fall colors. 


Around the Saugatuck/Douglas area, the best way to tour the colors is by taking a hike in the woods — literally. Here are the Top 4 Favorite Fall Hikes near Saugatuck.


Experience the fall colors of the Holland area as you climb Mount Pisgah, a towering dune east of Holland State Park, which is accessible via a boardwalk and stair system. With its apex 157 feet above Lake Michigan, the boardwalk culminates with scenic views of Lake Macatawa, Lake Michigan, and Big Red Lighthouse, surrounded by a heavily wooded area in vibrant hues of orange, red and, yellow. Or view the fall colors from the comfort of your car — here are a variety of driving routes around the greater Holland area. 


Whether you are driving, hiking, biking or paddling, Ludington is a great place to explore the beauty of the fall season.


For the first three Saturdays in October, Muskegon and White Lake invite you to celebrate the vibrant colors of the area woods, dunes, and water with the Depot-to-Depot Fall Color Tour. Drive your car or ride your bike along this self-guided route that stretches from the Muskegon South Pierhead Light to the White River Light Station. Travel on some of Muskegon’s most scenic roads along Lake Michigan and the West Michigan Pike Byway. This tour is free and participants will receive fall refreshments and coupons to area businesses. There are also free pumpkins for the children and complimentary Visit Muskegon postcards for the grownups (while supplies last). Stamp your map at the designated stops and enter to win 2 round-trip passes for the Lake Express High-Speed Ferry between Muskegon and Milwaukee to use in the 2020 season. Check in on social media for chances to win weekly giveaways using #VisitMuskegon, #D2D19, and #LiveWhiteLake. 

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association


To celebrate the changing of the seasons, check out Mt. Pleasant Area Visitors Bureau’s list of the best places to catch fall colors in the Mt. Pleasant area. 


With Fall on its way, so is the Mecosta County Fall Color Tour. The 2nd Annual Fall Color Tour is being coordinated by Jeep Freakz of Michigan, and they’ll be riding with the Reed City Trail Rides Off Road Group. On Saturday, Oct. 5th, from 11:30am-5:30pm, the groups plan to travel to Hungerford before exploring other local trails throughout Big Rapids and Mecosta County.


You can also enjoy a Mecosta County Color Tour through self-guided canoe and kayak trips down the Muskegon River. Stop in to the Welcome Center at 127 South State Street in Big Rapids, or visit BigRapids.org to pick-up/download the Color Tour brochure.


Manistee County has two fall color seasons: Inland and Coastal. Check out the latest fall color tour routes and videos for weekly fall color updates live from around Manistee County and Northern Michigan. 


Great color, beautiful scenery and interesting places to stop — you’ll find it all in the Petoskey Area. Five suggested routes take you in and around Harbor Springs, Petoskey, Charlevoix, and Boyne City — some offer lake views and all are known as favorite places to enjoy fall’s splendor.


The drive around Lake Charlevoix is a great color route; this journey will take you on the Breezeway through both East Jordan and Boyne City. The surrounding countryside is full of gently rolling hills and abundant foliage that is sure to satisfy that fall color trip you’ve been waiting for.


The contrasting evergreen and hardwood forests of the Grayling area are spectacular in autumn. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy a leisurely drive down the back roads, biking or hiking through Hartwick Pines State Park, or taking in the riverside colors while canoeing down the world famous AuSable and Manistee Rivers.


Set on the shores of Lake Superior, Travel Marquette has partnered with Noquemanon Trail Network (NTN), the leading trail network in the Central Upper Peninsula of Michigan, to deliver ‘Trail Talks’, enriching and engaging talks and expert led tours of the region throughout the 2019 summer and fall season. On Oct. 16 from 6:30-8:30pm, Travel Marquette and NTN will host a Picture This Trail Talk where expert photographer Shawn Malone shows trekkers how to capture the beauty of fall foliage with all levels of equipment including smartphones. Register for free to help organizers plan for the event. Location to meet the group: Marquette Board of Light and Power, 2200 Wright Street, Marquette, MI 49855.

Unique ways to view the fall foliage

Watch as Benzie County transforms into a kaleidoscope of color during Fall Chairlift Rides at Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville. Fall Chairlift Rides are available select dates through the month of October.


Enjoy the beautiful fall colors from the deck of the 77′ schooner Inland Seas as she sails around Suttons Bay. Fall is a relaxing season in northern Michigan as temperatures are comfortable and traffic is light. On this sail, participants can help the crew in raising the sails and steering the ship, or just sit back and relax while taking in the wonder our Great Lakes provide us. Cost is $30 for adults and $20 for children. For more information, visit schoolship.org/buy-tickets. 

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Two of the Mitten’s premiere paddlesport rivers, the Pine and the Big Manistee, wind their way through beautiful river valleys, revealing new color palettes at every bend. The Pine River Paddlesports Center in Wellston is here to make your fall color tour on the river an absolute breeze.

Experience Mother Nature’s fall color show from a different perspective. Hop on the Blue Chairlift in Shanty Creek Resort’s Schuss Village in Bellaire for a colorful ride to the top of Schuss Mountain. Just $5 per person, Chairlift Rides take place from noon-4pm on Saturdays through Oct. 19th.


Take a fall foliage tour via the Chippewa River by kayak or canoe and explore the fall foliage or hike to the “elusive” mountain in Mt. Pleasant, Bundy Hill Preserve, home to the highest point in Isabella County. 


Home to more than 100 lakes, including two chains of lakes, getting out on the water in Coldwater Country is the best way to see the fantastic fall foliage. Launch a boat, kayak, or canoe at one of the many public access points or rent a boat from one of the area marinas to get out on the water.

Stops to add to your color tour

Looking for the perfect spot to take in the fall color with a glass of wine in hand? Located on the 16th floor of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in Williamsburg, Aerie Restaurant & Lounge gives you 360-degree views of Northern Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay. Best of all, Aerie is a three-time Wine Spectator Award of Excellence winner, so whether you’re looking for an Old World classic or a local favorite, you’ll find the perfect bottle.


The Courtyard by Marriott Petoskey is your perfect beginning and end to your fall color tour. Only 15 minutes from M-119, the new property offers refreshing rooms and a bistro to share with family, friends, and loved ones alike.


After a day of exploring Northern Michigan, stop in downtown Charlevoix for dinner, a craft beer, or a tasty treat. Explore downtown boutiques for fall discounts and one-of-a-kind merchandise. While taking a fall color tour, celebrate nature’s harvest at the annual Apple Festival, Oct. 11th-13th, where you can enjoy an art and craft show, a variety of food vendors, and family friendly events. Stop at Friske’s Farm Market in Atwood to enjoy numerous tasty treats like a slice of apple pie, you-pick apples, and apple cider.


Lewis Farms & Petting Zoo in New Era is the perfect place to stop for all your fall favorite goodies along the beautiful drive up US-31 between Muskegon and Ludington. Stop in the market for apple cider and fresh donuts, pick up some delicious Michigan apples, or grab a bag of our homemade kettle corn to snack on along the way.


Crane’s is a family owned, family run business that has been a treasured travel destination in West Michigan for decades, nestled in the lush, rolling hills of their family’s fruit farms just minutes from Lake Michigan’s shore.

Special events to celebrate autumn colors

An annual celebration of autumn, Chrysanthemums & More, on display now through Oct. 27th at Frederick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, is the largest show of its kind in Michigan, featuring expansive chrysanthemum displays, fall foliage and family friendly activities. Mum Day, Oct. 20th will provide members and guests an opportunity to interact with horticulture staff and learn more about the fascinating chrysanthemum and fall themed plantings.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association


Gaylord’s Treetops Resort will be holding a Fall Color Tour and Progressive Dinner on Oct. 5th and a Farm 2 Fork dinner on Oct. 12th. 


Celebrate the vibrant fall colors of Southwest Michigan. Maple Row Sugarhouse is one of the stops on the Three Rivers Chamber of Commerce’s Fall Color Tour, which takes place Oct. 13th from 10am-5pm. Tour the Sugarbush and learn how maple sap is collected, enjoy samples of many different maple products, and learn how the French colonials made maple syrup and maple sugar.


Otsego Resort in Gaylord will host Wine & Cheese Color Tour Saturday, Oct. 19th, beginning at 2pm.



Going green while traveling around West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Your efforts to help the planet don’t have to take a vacation just because you are traveling. Many West Michigan destinations, businesses, and organizations are making sure to do their part to promote eco-friendly and sustainable practices to conserve energy and minimize environmental impact.

Eco-friendly lodging 

Crystal Mountain’s village in Thompsonville has been built iteratively, piece-by-piece, over time and the same approach has been applied to make meaningful strides toward a more sustainable future, such as:

  • Designing the resort as a pedestrian- and bike-friendly village, reducing use of carbon-emitting transportation
  • First resort in Michigan to invest in wind energy credits, offsetting the carbon footprint of the Crystal Clipper high-speed quad chairlift to help supply the grid with more clean, renewable energy sources—reducing CO2 emissions by 174,000 pounds annually
  • Building the first LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) spa in the Midwest—one of only four in the nation in 2009—that uses 28% less energy than a baseline structure
  • First northern Michigan resort to provide complimentary electric vehicle charging stations
  • Including a closed-loop, geothermal heating and cooling system as part of a $12 million expansion to the Inn at the Mountain (2018), reducing CO2 emissions by 150,000 pounds per year
  • Setting aside a 30-acre wooded preserve leased to Michigan Legacy Art Park for $1 per year
  • LED lighting in accommodations and public spaces, including the resort’s 33,000 square-foot conference facility
  • In-room recycling, electric golf carts, re-fillable bath amenities, efficiency sensors for irrigation and snow-making and more
Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Green Committee is dedicated to creating a sustainable vacation experience. Here are just a few of the ways Grand Traverse Resort, located in Williamsburg, works to improve their carbon footprint:

  • Partnership with TerraCycle, to recycle partially used and empty toiletry bottles. TerraCycle provides the Resort with a penny for each bottle, saved up to donate to local green nonprofits.
  • Partnership with Eminence Organics, which plants a tree for each product sold. To date, over 3,500 trees have been planted.
  • A composting program with Bay Area Recycling for Charities that directs roughly 100 tons of food waste from the Resort’s dining outlets away from landfills.
  • In 2016, the Resort replaced an aging boiler with a Micro CHP (Combined Heat and Power) unit with an engine that runs on natural gas to generate electricity with useful heat—clean hot water—as a by-product of cooling the engine. The Micro CHP is estimated to save up to $20,000 in electric energy each year, and received an EPA certificate of approval for commercial emission standards.
  • The Golf & Grounds team has won numerous awards for their eco-friendly approach; resort is certified as a Michigan Turf-grass Environmental Steward; is adding space to the no-mow natural zones on the 900-acre property.
  • The Resort is eliminating single-use plastic products from the property—a work in progress.

In Mecosta County, being eco-friendly is something that hospitality businesses are familiar with—most hotels have a detailed Green program as part of hotel policy.


The Holiday Inn and Conference Center in Big Rapids has an eco-friendly initiative known as the “Green Engage”, striving to provide a sustainable environment. This particular hotel achieves these policies through the maintenance of the building as well as housekeeping—ensuring that there is energy-efficient output on all room units, light bulbs, furnaces, etc. Housekeeping offers guests opportunities to re-use personal items like towels and toiletries.


Be sure to check out CityFlats Hotel in Holland, the First LEED Gold-certified hotel in the Midwest.

Green activities and events 

Your headquarters for Upper Peninsula outdoor adventures in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula and Isle Royale National Park, the Keweenaw Adventure Company hosts Lake Superior sea kayaking and world-renowned Copper Harbor mountain biking. Environmentally conscious and community players, the Keweenaw Adventure Company celebrated their 25th Anniversary this season, and are proud to be “ultimately contributing to the region’s well-being through education, stewardship, conservation and sustainable tourism.” 

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

For over 30 years, Inland Seas Education Association in Suttons Bay has been teaching people about protecting the Great Lakes through their programs on tall ship schooners. Participants engage in hands-on activities as they collect lake samples and analyze them to determine the health of the Great Lakes. Some of the programs also collect microplastics. Individuals also get a chance to raise the sails and steer the ship. Click through to find more information about ISEA public programs.


A hidden gem tucked behind tall dune hills, Lost Lake at Muskegon State Park is a botanical treasure with plants found in both bog and coastal plain marsh habitats. A three-mile, unpaved trail leads around Lost Lake, easily accessed from the Snug Harbor parking lot. A wheelchair-accessible trail from the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex leads to an accessible overlook and viewing scope on the wetland’s north side. 


John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids is committed to conserving resources and in doing so strives to make all of their operations as green as possible. The Zoo stays green by diverting 80% of waste from landfills through compost and recycling. They offer compostable straws and other plastics at the concession stands and have a variety of sustainable gift options in the gift shop. The Zoo is also committed to conserving endangered species around the world and right here in West Michigan. Every year John Ball Zoo sends zookeepers out into the field to help native species like the Kirtland’s warbler, Massasauga rattlesnakes, piping plovers, and wood turtles. 

Sustainable eating and shopping 

Going Green in Ludington is made easier with a number of restaurants using compostable containers, utensils, bags, and straws, or implementing a no-straw policy. Stores use biodegradable paper bags, eco-friendly cleaning practices, and some businesses have promotions in place with donations going to local eco-minded organizations. 


When visiting Mt Pleasant, grab a snack and refreshments and know you are helping local businesses with their sustainability practices. Visit the Mt. Pleasant Convention & Visitors Bureau site to learn more.  


Visitors looking to minimize their impact on the planet can feel good about visiting the BarFly Ventures restaurant family, which includes HopCat locations in Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, East Lansing, and Holland, as well as Stella’s Lounge in Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Brewing Co. The businesses recycle all metal, plastic, cardboard, and glass and locally compost all food scraps, napkins, straws, and any other organic materials, diverting up to 90 percent of their waste from landfills and incinerators and helping to create soil instead of trash. BarFly has helped raise more than $50,000 for local clean-water nonprofits.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Visit the Holland Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays 8am-2pm and support local agriculture. By purchasing locally grown produce, shoppers and vendors cut back on packaging and emissions that would otherwise be used to transport goods to grocery stores from across the country. 


Crane’s Pie Pantry in Fennville has gone strawless. Paper straws are only available on request. If you refuse a bag in the bakery or bring your own reusable bag, you leave with a free donut.




Where to get your retail therapy in west Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Recreation, Travel, , ,
Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


West Michigan is home to great shopping destinations. Whether you are looking for souvenirs to bring back from your vacation, a unique gift, antiques and collectibles, or planning a special shopping spree, you’ll find all wide variety of shops to get the retail therapy you need.


If you’re looking for some retail therapy, look no further than Old Town Lansing. This renaissance neighborhood is chock-full of galleries, boutiques, and trendy shops. Find everything from sassy goods to Michigan-made items, quality clothing stores and retro consignment shops lining the streets. And if you get hungry, know there’s great barbeque, two taco joints, a fancy burger bar, pizza parlor, and more.


Marshall’s downtown is filled with unique shopping experiences for all ages and interests. Located in a Historic District, original and restored buildings house a bit of everything: charming antiques, Michigan-themed gifts and housewares, distinctive clothing, adorable toys, new and gently used books, natural and environmentally-friendly items, one-of-a-kind artwork, salons and spas, high-quality items for your furry friends, and much more.


Locally owned boutiques, art galleries, and artisan shops filled with unique items line the downtowns of Saugatuck, Douglas, and Fennville. Swing in on your stroll through town to find items you won’t find anywhere else.


Visit Purely Michigan in St. Joseph to find Michigan products, including beer and wine. 


You’ll find paintings, photography, fabric art, and household novelties like napkins, table runners, towels, chenille pillows, and scrubbies, as well as pottery, jewelry, note cards, hand-knitted, crocheted, and quilted items at Ledge Craft Lane in Grand Ledge. Ledge Craft Lane offers changing weekly workshops and classes for kids and adults. Artist of the month featured in the gallery, too.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

South Haven boasts many unique shops and boutiques in the downtown area. Two large antique malls, stores with women’s, men’s, and children’s fashions, home décor, handmade jewelry, and children’s toys and games.


You will find a large variety of antiques, collectibles, vintage jewelry, sport and fishing items, furniture, and much more at the Allegan Antiques Market.


The Bookman in Grand Haven is your locally owned, full-service bookstore offering over 10,000 new books and thousands of used paperbacks, as well as a great selection of magazines, newspapers, and greeting cards.


Visit Muskegon for a range of vintage and antique stores, specialty grocery shops, unique pop-up shops along Western Ave., and the Muskegon Farmers Market.


Shop with a purpose at GR8LKS Apparel for Change in Norton Shores. For each retail dollar spent, GR8LKS will spend one minute cleaning the water and shoreline of the Great Lakes.


Ludington includes a variety of stores offering name-brand clothing and shoes, home decor, specialty foods and more. For a unique shopping experience, visit the downtown gallery of Todd & Brad Reed Photography. The famed Ludington artists offer traditional prints, gallery canvases, and coffee-table books of the highest quality, featuring gorgeous scenes of Lake Michigan, Hamlin Lake, notable lighthouses, and the local countryside.


There are many wonderful local shops to explore in Mecosta County. You can find a variety of these shops just in Downtown Big Rapids, including Michigan and Big Rapids items, unique gifts, wedding decor and supplies, furniture, books, jewelry, and handmade items created by local artisans. Mecosta County is a great place to look for antiques, collectables, retro items, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Find freshly made pastries, pies, and more at a variety of local eateries and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious treat while taking a shopping break. 


Shopping for family, friends, or that special someone can be hard, but the Mt. Pleasant Area has a number of specialty shops and artisan stores to make it easy. Downtown Mt. Pleasant is home to unique boutiques and shops featuring arts and crafts from Michigan-based painters, sculptors, and other creators. Find stops to add to your next shopping spree in the Mt. Pleasant area. 

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Downtown Holland is widely regarded as West Michigan’s premier shopping, dining and events destination, with over 125 locally owned clothing and accessory boutiques, home furnishing stores, specialty food shops, art galleries, and more.


Holland is also home to craft breweries, fine dining destinations, and cozy coffee shops… meaning there’s something to satisfy everyone’s cravings, whether sweet or savory or something in between.


Summer may be over, but the Holland Farmers Market is still in full swing. The Market is open from 8am–3pm every Wednesday and Saturday at the Eighth Street Market Place through the end of December. All autumn long, you can shop for apples, pumpkins, squash, potatoes, and so much more, not to mention breads and other baked goods, mums, hay bales, honey, maple syrup, jam, meat, eggs, and cheese too.


While visiting Holland, stop by the Holland Museum gift shop, filled with unique items including books, cards, games, and pottery.


The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Play Room Gift Shop is the perfect stop for unique, creative children’s toys. 


Bill & Paul’s Sporthaus is an outdoor adventure sports specialty retailer with over 50 years in the Grand Rapids area. They sell skis, snowboards, backpacking and camping equipment, kayaks, apparel, and more.


Add some retail therapy to your fall color tour around the Cadillac area, with restaurants and over 20 art, clothing, and gift shops, then head east to Lake City to several new restaurants and small town gift shops.


Dublin General Store in Wellston is your destination for world-famous Dublin Jerky Company jerky, including beef, pork, chicken, turkey, ostrich & wild game. Also steaks, ribs, smoked fish, various spices and rubs, award-winning sauces, aged cheeses, and more.


Find all things cherry (and delicious) at Cherry Republic in downtown Traverse City, the cherry capital of the world. 


Oryana Natural Foods Market in Traverse City is your source for local, organic and natural food. Oryana carries the region’s largest selection of locally sourced goods, organic and locally-grown produce as well as locally roasted fair-trade coffees, naturally leavened breads, and body care products. 


If shopping is always included in your vacation plans then head to Shanty Creek Resort for a fun-filled getaway; resort-themed gifts abound on-site. Check out the charming shops in downtown Bellaire for unique gifts, clothing, art, and more. Need to include more shopping during your getaway? Traverse City is just 31 miles from Shanty Creek Resort.


Family owned and -operated since 1933, McDonough’s Market on Beaver Island specializes in grocery, custom-cut meat, fresh produce, and a wide selection of beer and wine.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

The brand-new Courtyard by Marriott Petoskey is opening soon and booking rooms in November. The beautiful property is only two miles from downtown Petoskey and local attractions. Featuring 129 guest rooms and 10 suites, you’ll be able to enjoy a day on property in the pool, arcade, and bistro or you can explore the shops in the Gaslight district of Petoskey with our Shopping Spree package. Indulge with $100 in Downtown Dollars and breakfast in the Bistro. 


Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts of Petoskey is a favorite source of treasures from Northern Michigan offering Lynn Haney Collectible Santas, Minnetonka Moccasins, home decor and native gifts, as well as signs for your home or cottage including personalized ski signs, and pre-printed Walloon and Crooked Lake signs.


Don’t forget your furry friends while you’re on your shopping spree. Ruff Life Pet Outfitters in Petoskey carries the latest products in the pet care industry, offering natural items and unique, high quality affordable pet products.


Find more West Michigan shopping destinations at wmta.org. 



Plot your color tour with free fall planning tools from Manistee County Visitors Bureau

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, ,

By Adrienne Brown–Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


With thousands of visitors flocking to Northern Michigan annually to catch the peak of autumn color, the Manistee County Visitors Bureau (Visit Manistee County) is making it easier to see fall colors in the region that also boasts two distinct fall color seasons, offering free fall planning tools to help visitors plot their autumn visit, along with a host of seasonal events and attractions.


“The fall season is a key draw to our beautiful part of the state, and we are so fortunate to have two distinct phases that extend our season — our inland region shows earlier signs of fall color, and our Lake Michigan coastline stays green longer with warmth from the lake,” said Kathryn Kenny, executive director of Visit Manistee County. “We want to make it easy for visitors to find everything they need at their fingertips to have a wonderful autumn getaway while enjoying the longer color season here.”


Visitors planning a fall trip to Manistee County can go to visitmanisteecounty.com/fallcolor for the following:

  • 2019 Fall Color Guide – Developed for the first time this year as a stand-alone guide for the fall season, this free, downloadable 36-page fall color guide provides top photo spots; three color tour driving routes (inland, coastal and Lake Michigan coastal tour/M-22 scenic drive) with food, shopping and lodging stops along the way; plus evening activity suggestions. Visitors also can request a free printed guide in the mail by contacting the visitors bureau at 877.626.4783.
  • Biweekly fall color update videos – Visit Manistee staff provide twice-a-week, short video updates about where the leaf color is around the county to help with travel plans. The latest video appears on the fall landing page, and past videos are archived on Facebook.
  • Fall “color dial” – Two color dials are updated every few days – one for the coastal region and one for the inland region – visually depicting the leaf color from green for “still early” or “here and there,” to yellow for “feels like fall” and “good color,” to red for “great color” and “peak color.” A short description of the current status is listed below the dial.
  • Other fall suggestions – The fall website landing page gives suggestions of other unique ways to experience fall in Manistee County, such as via a hiking trail or river paddle, from the air on a scenic flight, or on a sunset boat cruise.

Self-guided fall driving tours

Visit Manistee County highlights three primary fall color driving routes in its new 2019 Fall Color Guide, which can also be combined with additional tours from the Manistee County Self-Guided Tour series of the county for fall leaf peeping. Driving tours for the best chance to see fall colors include:

  • Inland Fall Color Tour – This 175-mile scenic inland loop takes visitors east into Manistee County toward higher elevations and dense hardwoods of Manistee National Forest, plus along winding dirt roads and through tunnels of trees. (Can be combined with the Bridges and Dams Tour and Quilt Trail Tour.)
  • Coastal Fall Color Tour – This scenic route traversing 130 miles of Manistee County’s shoreline along both Lakeshore Drive and the start of the famous M-22 passes through coastal towns like Onekama and Arcadia while offering expansive glimpses of Lake Michigan at vistas like Arcadia Overlook. Fifteen points of interest are mapped out, along with fun facts and diversions. (Can be combined with the Natural Wonders Tour and U-Pick & Farm Markets Tour.)
  • Lake Michigan Coastal Tour /M-22 Scenic Drive – Manistee County is the gateway to scenic Michigan Highway M-22, which this 150-mile route follows from Manistee County north along Lake Michigan past 21 points of interest and through 11 communities, all the way to Northport and down to Traverse City. (Suggested in conjunction with the above-mentioned Coastal Fall Color Tour.)

Fall events and attractions

Manistee County also features fall events and attractions that cater to adults and families alike:

  • Hops and Props on the River, Manistee, Sept. 21. This fall favorite features classic wooden boats and craft beer, cider and wine. Visitors can taste their way through more than 100 beers from 35 Michigan breweries, view classic Century boats (originally manufactured in Manistee), and listen to live music.
  • Little Manistee River Weir – Fall Egg Harvest, Manistee, tours scheduled in the fall and group tours by appointment. (Call 231.775.9727, ext. 6072 to check tour dates.) This occurs once a year when the DNR Fisheries Division harvests chinook salmon eggs from the weir that is used to block fish on the Little Manistee River. The eggs are sent to state fish hatcheries to be reared and stocked across Michigan and other states. During the fall egg take, visitors can tour the operation and view salmon from a platform.
  • Onekama Fall Festival, Onekama, Oct. 12. This annual tradition features live entertainment, arts and crafts, scarecrow and pumpkin decorating contests, pet parade, hay rides, food wagon and other family-friendly activities.
  • Manistee Ghost Ship, October weekends. The historic 1931 S.S. City of Milwaukee car ferry transforms into the Manistee Ghost Ship, where visitors explore five decks of thrills, scares and ghostly beings. Admission fee.
  • Scenic Airplane Tours, October weekends. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Michigan’s fall colors on a scenic flight over Manistee County.  Orchard Beach Aviation conducts two scenic flights – one over downtown Manistee and the Lake Michigan shoreline, and one of the M-22/Portage Lake area – for $30 per person (two person minimum) departing from Manistee County Blacker Airport.
  • Sunset Cruises, Manistee, Daily through mid-October. Enjoy a privately chartered cruise on Lake Michigan with someone else captaining the boat. Inn Fun Cruises offers day trip and two-hour evening sunset cruises on its 28-foot Bayliner where guests are treated to light snacks and beverages from local restaurants. Guests can bring alcoholic beverages as well. Guests meet on the dock behind Taco ‘Bout It and cruise around Manistee Lake, Manistee River channel, and out to Lake Michigan (weather permitting) to see the sun set. Groups of up to six are welcome, with pricing for the sunset cruise ranging from $250 for 1 to 2 people, to $450 for 5 to 6 people.

Visit Manistee County encourages visitors this fall to tag their photos and posts on social media with #MyManistee and #FallFilter for a chance to be featured in Visit Manistee County’s fall campaign.





Bed & Breakfasts to visit in Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Recreation, Travel, Upcoming Events,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Experience the warm West Michigan hospitality of a Bed & Breakfast on your next getaway. Whether you’re looking for a cozy, romantic getaway, a quaint historical charmer, or a luxurious weekend away, West Michigan has a Bed & Breakfast for you.

Bed & Breakfasts in South West Michigan

Courtesy Yelton Manor Bed & Breakfast

In Marshall, the National House Inn, built over 170 years ago, is the oldest operating inn in Michigan. It originally welcomed stagecoach travelers and offers the same gracious hospitality with luxuries and conveniences of today. 


Saugatuck is home to some of the most charming B&Bs around, including Wickwood Inn. This is where best-selling James Beard Hall of Fame cookbook author and co-founder of The Silver Palate and owner of Wickwood for two decades, Julee Rosso, first began to source the freshest local farmer’s market ingredients. Other B&B options in Saugatuck include Bayside Inn, Maplewood Hotel, Marywood Manor B&B and Cottages, Serendipity Bed and Breakfast, Sherwood Forest B&B, and Twin Oaks Inn.


Luxurious and lakeside, Yelton Manor Boutique Hotel B&B is the closest B&B in South Haven to the beach. It’s walkable to everything, blissfully tucked away from the noisy harbor, festivals, and nightspots.


Greater Lansing is home to a number of wonderful Bed & Breakfasts. In trendy Old Town Lansing find the Cozy Koi Bed & Breakfast, while in downtown East Lansing, the charming Wild Goose Inn sits just a block away from Michigan State University campus. For a retreat in style, choose The English Inn for quaint-yet-modern cottages and deliciously elegant rooms in the manor house. For something a bit different, head out to Williamston and commune with some llamas and alpacas at the Willowicke Inn or head to Dimondale to stay in The Legend Inn. The area’s newest B&B is found in the northern neighboring community of St. Johns. The Nordic Pineapple is a charming inn with five rooms with all the amenities, right in the heart of St. Johns. 

More South Region Bed & Breakfasts:

Central West Michigan

Courtesy The Gerber Guest House

Visit the Muskegon area and stay at one of the numerous Bed & Breakfasts in the area such as White Swan Inn Bed & Breakfast in Whitehall. Come to White Swan Inn Bed & Breakfast for the hospitality, stay for the incredible location. This charming inn is within walking distance of stores and restaurants, across the street from a historic performing arts center, one block away from the bike trail, just up the hill from White Lake, and a short drive to the fantastic sunsets at Lake Michigan. 


The Lamplighter Bed & Breakfast, situated along Ludington Avenue in Ludington, is just five blocks from shopping, antiquing, restaurants, breweries, ice cream, and entertainment. Each of the five rooms and suites offer private baths and a comfortable night’s sleep. Enjoy Michigan’s spring and summer seasons and wander outside to enjoy the beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces. You’ll also find many other charming bed & breakfasts and other accommodations in Ludington for your next stay.  


Mecosta County has a plethora of bed & breakfasts (and more) for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in cabins, cottages, or bed & breakfasts, Mecosta County has a place for you to rest your head.


Feel at home on vacation on one of Isabella County’s bed and breakfasts: Enjoy convenient access to Downtown Mt. Pleasant, home to museums, restaurants, boutiques, and more. Or take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in a country-side cottage. Whichever you prefer, the unique area bed & breakfast accommodations have what you seek. Learn more about Isabella County’s unique bed & breakfast options at the Mt. Pleastant Convention & Visitors Bureau.

More Central Region Bed & Breakfasts:

North West Michigan & Upper Peninsula

Enjoy a relaxing weekend on the Leelanau Peninsula. Visit the Inn at Black Star Farms for a weekend of luxury, featuring a farm-fresh breakfast each morning of your stay. What are you waiting for? Book your next up north getaway! 

More North Region and Upper Peninsula Bed & Breakfasts: 

Courtesy Chateau Chantal

Find more unique lodging options in the West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide.

Where to tempt your taste buds in West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Food, Local Business, Local Faces, Local Food, Recreation,
Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


There is no shortage of tasty things to tempt your taste buds in West Michigan. From farm-fresh produce, homemade goodies, and dockside dining to locally crafted brews, wines, and desserts, here are some mouthwatering options for you to try.


Find more foodie tips in our Carefree Travel Guide.

Southwest Michigan

Greater Lansing sets the table with diverse restaurants with locally sourced menu items that will tantalize your taste buds and take you for a trip around the globe. Whether you’re looking for some comfort food and enjoy Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives recommendations or enjoy a great food truck or a terrific farm-to-table experience, Greater Lansing is the perfect destination for your inner foodie. 


Head to Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings for BBQ, Music, and Family Game Night Sunday, Aug. 11th. Dinner is at 5pm, music and games 6-7:30pm. Come enjoy the last days of summer vacation with good food, great music provided by the Hastings Community Music School, lawn games, family-friendly relay races and more. Member adults $16, children $8; Non-member adults $19, children $10.


Home to many locally owned and operated diners, restaurants, and pubs, Coldwater Country is the place to grab a delicious quick breakfast, find a destination restaurant, or a gourmet dinner. 


Crane’s Pie Pantry bakery and restaurant offer farm-fresh products that will make you think it came right from grandma’s kitchen. Specializing in Michigan fruit pies and desserts, Crane’s bakery also includes bread, cinnamon rolls, muffins, cookies, apple cider donuts, and much more to make your mouth water. They offer a complete menu of handcrafted meals including soups, salads, and American mains, served in a historical surrounding of local memorabilia and antiques. Stop in to the Saugatuck Tasting Bar or Fennville Restaurant & Winery to grab a taste. 


Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Central West Michigan

If you’re in Mecosta County to tempt your taste buds, then you have come to the right place. With great food, good times, and phenomenal service, the restaurants throughout Mecosta County need to be scheduled into your next visit. For more places that will “Tempt Your Taste Buds”, check out the Mecosta County Restaurant Guide.


Bring the kids to Kitchen 242 at The Muskegon Farmers Market for a “Princess Party” with Chef Char Saturday, Aug. 10th from 10:30–11:30am. Bake cookies with Chef Char and Princess Tiana and Princess Elsa. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos with the princesses. Each little princess will roll, decorate, and bake a dozen princess-themed cookies to take home. This is for ages 5 and up. The cost is $45 and tickets are available through Eventbrite. 


Ludington dining options include ’50s diners, Italian restaurants, breweries, barbeque, and the best ice cream in the Midwest.


Herman’s Boy is a great Rockford stop for a made-to-order deli sandwich. Everything is done in-house, a 100-year-old farmhouse to be exact, from fresh baked bagels to smoked meat & cheeses. Herman’s Boy is also “Home of the Bagel Dog” — a German-style wiener wrapped in bagel dough and topped with the fixings of your choosing. Herman’s Boy is a local roastery, bakery, confectionary, deli, smokehouse, kitchen, grilling gadget shop. Be sure to check out these and other treats, snacks, and coffees all done in house.


Throughout the Holland area, you will find an array of dining options that are sure to satisfy any craving. Grab a slice of pie made with fresh Michigan fruits or enjoy a lake perch dinner. This year welcomed a few new restaurants to downtown, which include HopCat, and Sperry’s Moviehouse Restaurant. Click through for more information on Holland’s local dining options.


HopCat restaurants in West Michigan have launched new brunch and lunch menus for guests in need of either a quick weekday meal or a well-earned weekend fun day. The restaurant family’s 9 Under $9 lunch menu is a selection of quick-service items created for guests who have places to be and budgets to watch. It includes exciting new choices like the California Club Sandwich, Pork Tostadas, and the Dbl Smash Burger alongside updated HopCat favorites like the Madtown Grilled Cheese Sandwich and Better Living Through Tacos entrée, available from 11am to 2pm Monday-Friday, alongside HopCat’s regular menu. The restaurants have also unveiled new brunch menus with mouthwatering options. The updated selections are available at HopCat’s locations in Kalamazoo, Holland, and Grand Rapids, where the original downtown restaurant now serves brunch from its recently renovated kitchen.


Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Northwest Michigan

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa’s Aerie Restaurant & Lounge is proud to announce its third consecutive Wine Spectator Award of Excellence win. Wine Spectator magazine bestows the Award of Excellence to restaurants with wine lists featuring at least 90 selections that include a well-chosen assortment of quality producers along with a thematic match to the menu in both price and style.


From family friendly and casual to fine dining, Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire has what you crave. With stunning sunsets, award-winning steaks, pasta, and homemade desserts, The Lakeview Restaurant offers simple, local, social dining. Enjoy the Macadamia Crusted Whitefish, Twisted Pasta with shrimp and lobster, or a traditional steak. The River Bistro at Shanty Creek Resort offers a more casual atmosphere to enjoy burgers, sandwiches, pizza, and classic dinner entrees including fish & chips, salmon, stir-fry, and more. Enjoy a fresh-squeezed cocktail or one of more than 45 regional or international beers while playing pub games including foosball, darts, pool, and more. Both restaurants are also open for breakfast and lunch.


From daily Summer Nights on the Patio to al fresco dining in the estate vineyard, Black Star Farms near Suttons Bay has something for every palate.


Crystal Mountain’s Farm-to-Table dining series brings the fresh flavors of northern Michigan to the Thistle Pub & Grille at the resort in Thompsonville the third weekend of each month, May through September. Their chefs work with local farms, making personal visits to many of them, to build a custom three-course menu.


Come to Traverse City and enjoy the ultimate Bonobo Winery experience. Join Cornel, Bonobo’s winemaker, on the patio for a three-course lunch. Learn more about the wines paired with each course by the winemaker himself while taking in views of the rolling vineyard with Grand Traverse Bay in the distance. Picnic lunches in the vineyard are available at 12pm and 1:30pm Monday through Friday. Just reserve a table for $50 (seats up to six people), buy your lunch from the picnic menu, and select your favorite bottle of Bonobo wine. They’ll drive you out to your special place among the vines. Reservations recommended.


Click through for more mouth-watering places to try around West Michigan.




Adventure travel in West Michigan

3-bottom, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living, Travel, ,
Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Looking to add an adrenaline rush to your vacation? From zip-lines to deep water kayaking, West Michigan is full of unique adventures to make a memorable trip! 

Upper Peninsula Adventures

Drummond Island Resort is the proud home of Turtle Ridge Off Road Vehicle (ORV) Park. Featuring over 300 acres of prime off-road trails, the course is carved out of the island’s natural limestone. The park, open year-round, offers an abundance of trails of varying degrees of difficulty, providing thrills and excitement for all those who experience it.


On the shores of Lake Superior, Marquette is a community where nature’s assets are on display through scenic vistas, rugged trails, and rushing waterfalls. From unique dining experiences, award-winning craft breweries, and a thriving art scene, Marquette embraces a culture anchored in artisanship and ingenuity. In August, Marquette has a number of adventure travel and racing events worth experiencing or participating in:

  • August Adventure Travel:
    • Falls are the foundation of the full Marquette, Michigan experience and Morgan Falls is just the one for the whole family. Just south of the city, this 20-foot waterfall is easily accessible and has cascades you need to see. Click through for a map of all the waterfalls in Marquette County.
    • Presque Isle Park is loved by visitors and locals alike and it’s no wonder why with its two miles of scenery and unforgettable views of Superior. On the drive there, along Lakeshore Boulevard, you might even spot two notorious rare white deer who sometimes stroll through the park. Find more details on one of the most visited places in Marquette.
    • Want to climb a mountain but make sure the crew can come too? Sugarloaf Mountain offers a more mild trek to the top than most, but there’s nothing short about the view of Marquette and Lake Superior from the summit. Click through for more Sugarloaf Mountain hiking resources. 
  • August Racing Events:
    • Ore 2 Shore: On Aug. 10th, riders will gear up at the start line in Negaunee, where in 1844 iron ore was first discovered in the Superior region. The long-distance course travels through Ishpeming, past towering head frames from the heyday of underground mining, and then heads north into the beautiful wooded wilderness, crossing or running alongside of the Dead River all the way into Marquette to the Lake Superior shoreline.
    • Marquette Trail 50 Ultramarathon: On Aug. 16th and 17th, racers will participate in the eleventh edition of the Marquette Trail 50 Ultramarathon in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The Marquette Trail 50 consists of a 50-kilometer and 50-mile event held on Saturday. The course is mostly single-track, climbing the four peaks: Sugarloaf, Top-of-the-World, Bareback, and Hogback. All the peaks have views of Lake Superior, and portions of the course skirt its shoreline.
    • Marquette Marathon: The 10th annual Marquette Marathon will be held on Aug. 31st, where athletes will participate in marathon and half marathon courses that have significant elevation drops, visit multiple Upper Peninsula cities, and travel through the scenic Iron Ore Heritage Trail.

For a stellar twenty-five seasons Keweenaw Adventure Company has been hosting world-class, professionally guided Lake Superior sea kayak tours and single-track mountain biking for all levels of experience! Prepare to be wowed by the Keweenaw Peninsula’s truly unique coastal lines and terrains for our mid-western region. Canoe, sit-on-top kayak, and SUP rentals are also available, along with eco-interpretive hikes and a shuttle service. Use promo code WMTA$25 to save $25-off any Day Sea Kayaking Tour!

North Region Adventures

Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide, Michigan’s only Alpine Slide, allows you to cruise down one of two parallel 1,700-foot-long curved tracks. You control the speed in this action-packed thrill ride with dips, high-bank turns, and spectacular views of the Crystal Mountain area in Thompsonville.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

For over 30 years, Inland Seas Education Association of Suttons Bay has been teaching people about protecting the Great Lakes through their programs on tall ship schooners. Participants engage in hands-on activities as they collect lake samples and analyze them to determine the health of the Great Lakes. Some of the programs also collect microplastics. Individuals also get a chance to raise the sails and steer the ship. Click here for more information about ISEA public programs.


Take your wine-tasting trip up a notch with Bubbly on the Bay, wine-tasting kayak tours of Omena Bay Tuesdays and every other Thursdays through the end of August with Leelanau Cellars in Omena.


Explore the dunes and woodlands in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore afloat the crystal clear waters of the Platte River. At Riverside Canoe Trips on M22 near the Lake Michigan shoreline just outside of Honor, you’ll get an entirely different perspective from a canoe, kayak, tube, raft, or stand up paddleboard paddling the river which snakes through the breathtaking park.


Part of the 75-mile string of lakes and connecting rivers of the Chain of Lakes, and stretching 19 miles, Torch Lake is where Shanty Creek families head for days of sunshine and water adventure. Spend the day tubing, water skiing, and just enjoying the water and sun. Or, grab some wheels and ride. Study a map of Antrim County and you see roads bending to the will of geography. Curves and arcs and turns are dictated by lakeshores, threading rivers, broad wetlands, and ridges and valleys that rise and fall into the distance.

Central Region Adventures

Whether you’re looking for boat and jet ski rentals, bicycling and kayaking trails, or a Lake Michigan charter boat excursion, Ludington has you covered. Find boat rentals on beautiful Hamlin Lake, paddle the Pere Marquette or Big Sable river, head out on a sailing excursion on Lake Michigan, or catch a prized salmon on the big lake in a charter fishing trip.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Jump Around Fun Center in Ludington has an 11,000-sq-ft outdoor, inflatable park which includes three large, head-to-head obstacles for kids and adults to compete against each other. One is a 75′ long zorb track, where each person climbs into a “hamster ball” and races down a track. The others have climbs, dips, dives, and slides to get to the finish line. You will also find a Virtual Reality arcade for those who want to try a new kind of adventure. Game selection includes rock climbing, underwater exploring, and even an entire virtual amusement park with roller coaster rides, balloon rides, and many more options.

Adventure awaits you in Mt Pleasant!

  • Zip Line at Snow Snake — Complete with TEN unique zip lines, the longest line is over 820 ft. long and the highest is over 75 ft.; that is taller than a five-story building. 
  • Kayak/Canoe the Chippewa River — the stream runs 91.8 miles through the central Lower Peninsula. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely trip on the water or a full day of paddling, the Chippewa River is perfect for everyone.
  • Deerfield Nature Park — Deerfield Nature Park is perfect for adventurers — with over 8 miles of hiking and biking trails. The trails lead you down a path of natural beauty where you encounter swinging bridges, a covered bridge the famous Chippewa River and more. 

John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids offers many unique experiences, including a gem and fossil sluice, a 600-foot zip line, and a four-story ropes course.  


Ever wanted to learn how to fly fish on one of Michigan’s premier trout streams? Join the Pere Marquette River Lodge in Baldwin for a summer fly fishing school that will teach beginners how to fish for trophy trout using terrestrial flies, which imitate grasshoppers, ants, beetles, and other large insects. The school runs from Aug. 9-11 and includes two nights stay at the lodge, two continental breakfasts, two lunches, and a half day guide trip. The lodge offers cabins, riverside houses, a full-service fly shop, and guided fly fishing trips for trout and migratory species. 


Spend the day on the water in Holland — rent a boat or a Jet Ski and take a high-speed ride through Lake Macatawa or on Lake Michigan. You can also rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddle board, should you prefer a calmer activity. Interested in wakeboarding, water skiing or kneeboarding, but don’t have access to a boat? Action Wake Park in Hudsonville is the only full size cable park in the state, and just a 15-minute drive from Holland.


The goal of 1 Adventure Company in Macatawa is to give you the best experience possible. From group tours to 1-on-1 training, expert guides will craft your perfect adventure using the best techniques and newest equipment available.


Blendon Pines Gun Club in Zeeland is the perfect way to add a little excitement to your next company outing, party, or team building adventure. They offer a full course of skeet shooting to test your marksmanship ability with what they refer to as “golf with a gun”.


While Mecosta County isn’t exactly adrenaline junkie territory, there are a couple of locations throughout the county that offer a thrill for those in search. Find climbing walls, ropes course challenges, and paintball adventures on the Things To Do tab of the Mecosta County CVB site. 


Plan your trip to Michigan’s largest amusement and water park, Michigan’s Adventure in Muskegon before the end of summer. Featuring over 60 renowned rides and attractions, it’s the place to be for all adventure-seeking Michiganders.


Don’t wait for snow…luge in the summer! The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex is open Saturdays and Sundays in the summer from 10am-2pm, so you can enjoy a variety of warm weather sporting activities.

  • Experience the only wheel luge track in North America. Wheel luge is done on a specially designed track with the same sleds used on the ice, but with wheels attached. The design of the track, adaptive equipment, and surrounding common areas also accommodate persons with disabilities. Shorter than the ice track, average runs take approximately 9 seconds while covering 300 feet of track.
  • Learn Archery Fundamentals: Muskegon State Park visitors can stop by the Sports Complex for a round of archery guided by an instructor. All participants receive a quick lesson explaining the basic fundamentals of archery. Participants can then shoot rounds of arrows at the controlled archery range. This activity is fun for ages 6 and older.

Every third Friday of the month, you can go where no visitor has gone before on All Access Tours of the Lakeshore Museum Center’s Hackley & Hume Historic Site in Muskegon. Explore behind closed doors, including attics, porches, and basements of both houses. Enjoy different themed topics such as restoration, preservation, family stories, new discoveries in the research, the Hackley House during the Red Cross years, and the Hume home as a Daycare Center, as well as future projects. Get your tickets for the Hackley & Hume Scandal Tour, Aug. 22-24. Participate in this illuminating interactive event as a juror in a mock trial covering the scandalous untold stories of Hackley and Hume family members. Dive into the past and decide for yourself what is truth and what is fiction. Due to adult themes and topics, this program is not suitable for children. Space is limited, so reserve your tickets via Eventbrite. 


Situated near one of the most popular beaches in Michigan, the view from the air at Skydive Grand Haven is truly a sight to behold. If you’re lucky enough to get on one of the last loads of the day, the outline of the Chicago skyline can often be seen in front of the orange sun setting on the water.

South Region Adventures

Lansing is located where the longest river in Michigan, the Grand River, meets up with the Red Cedar River. Navigating the Grand or Red Cedar Rivers is easy. What’s difficult is choosing whether you’d like to kayak, canoe, SUP, or hop aboard the Grand Princess for a cruise downtown or the Michigan Princess for a paddleboat experience. River Town Adventures offers kayak, canoe, and SUP (plus bicycle) rentals along with livery service for everything from a one hour paddle around right downtown to a half-day excursion. J&K Steamboats will let you ride in style on the big boats providing day and evening cruises with lunch, dinner, or themed party nights.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Waldo Wright’s Flying Service in Portage (located at the Air Zoo) will take you on the adventure of a lifetime. This historic hotspot offers group or individual flights in legendary aircrafts that you won’t find anywhere else.


Water adventures abound in Coldwater Country. Grab a kayak or rent a pontoon boat to venture out onto one of the more than 100 lakes or travel the North or South Chain of Lakes. It’s easy to find an adventure on the water in Coldwater Country.


South Haven has plenty of opportunities to fulfill your adventurous spirit. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and head out on Lake Michigan for a fun-filled on-water experience. Bring your bicycle, or rent one, and head out on the hiking and biking trails. The Kal-Haven and Van Buren Trails are the perfect getaways from the busy city. Check out one of the rental companies and gain inspiration through South Haven’s outdoors website page. 

Oliver Art Center opens creative space and library

Entertainment, Kids Activities, Non-Profits, ,
Courtesy Oliver Art Center

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Oliver Art Center (OAC) has established a permanent community creative space for young artists and their families to explore art in its various forms. OAC already hosts a lending library space on the top floor of the renovated Coast Guard Station.


The addition of the new creative space will allow visitors to peruse books on art, artists, and museums in addition to allowing exploration of artistic mediums through perpetual, self-guided art projects. The community space will be open all year during regular business hours and features comfortable seating for both adults and kids; books, puzzles, games geared to all ages; curated, self-guided art projects; and display space for budding young artists.


“This space will assist in helping an underserved part of the local population: parents with young, preschool age kids, as well as older kids,” said Mercedes Michalowski, OAC’s Executive Director. “The need for this space was born out of two free, art drop in days that OAC hosted earlier this year.”


Michalowski said that the first day hosted just over 20 kids and adults; the second day, about a month later hosted over 45. The parents of the younger children asked OAC to keep programs like the drop-in days going in the fall and winter when there are less opportunities to occupy younger children.


“We are very excited about this opportunity,” said Michalowski.


Oliver Art Center received a grant from the Grand Traverse Community Foundation Charlie and Linda Kehr Fund that is providing the funds to purchase furniture and other major initial needs for the room. Cash donations as well as material donations will be welcome as the space and program continues.


Oliver Art Center is located at 132 Coast Guard Rd., Frankfort, MI 49635.


Trails for hiking, biking, paddling, and more in West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living, , ,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Whether you want to get lost in the woods, put your mountain bike to the test, or explore the coastline, you’ll find a great way below to hit the trails.

Hiking & biking

Celebrate 100 years of Michigan State Parks this year by traveling the more than 12,500 miles of state-designated trails and pathways in our state, making Michigan home to one of the largest, interconnected trail systems in the country. This inviting network — and the associated quality of life, health, and economic benefits it offers — is fueling Michigan’s drive to be known nationally as “The Trails State.” The trail system offers ample opportunities for bicyclists, hikers, ORV riders, cross-country skiers, snowmobilers, horseback riders, and more.


Discover Munising’s wonderful waterfalls and hiking trails that provide opportunities for tranquility, relaxation, education and fun, including Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, which offers 100 miles of trails within its 73,000 acres along 42 miles of Lake Superior’s shore.

The Grayling area offers a number of walking, hiking, and biking trails, including a paved pathways system that is over 11 miles long, connecting parks and recreation spots around the area, such as Hanson Hills Recreation Area, Hartwick Pines State Park, and Wakeley Lake.


Cheboygan County has more miles of trails than any other county in Michigan. Their hundreds of miles of four-season trails bring visitors back year after year. These trails connect Cheboygan to the surrounding cities, lakes, and recreational areas.


Whether a beginner, intermediate, or expert rider, the world-class Copper Harbor Trails System has a ride-of-a-lifetime waiting for you. Join Keweenaw Adventure Company in Copper Harbor for a professionally-guided tour.


Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings has seven miles of hiking trails throughout the 662 acres of natural area it sits on, and you are invited to celebrate trails and the great outdoors with bird watching, fishing, nature art stations, bicycle safety, and maintenance demonstrations, nature journaling, and much more at the “Get Out on the Trail” event August 6th. 


Looking for a great ride/walk/jog in the Petoskey area? There are multiple trails throughout the area with breathtaking views and a mostly paved surface connecting the communities of Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs. For hikers, the Little Traverse Conservancy nature preserves dotted throughout the whole area gives nature lovers perfect spots to get off the beaten path. 


Coolbough Nature Area in Newaygo encompasses the largest natural prairie east of the Mississippi River. You’ll find several looped paths with unique ecosystems, including a rare oak-pine savanna, prairie, and wetlands.


Hiking opportunities abound at the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station, located in Hickory Corners. There are numerous trails and other areas open to the public for walking and hiking. The grounds of the Kellogg Estate, which include the Kellogg Conference Center and Manor House, are open from dawn to dusk year-round. Visitors may take self-guided tours of the estate and historic Manor House, and docent-led tours are available by reservation. The W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, in nearby Augusta, offers several trails, some of which are paved and accessible to visitors using wheelchairs.


For a unique hiking experience, head to Oswald Bear Ranch in Newberry. Fun hiking around the bear habitats can take an hour at a leisurely pace while taking in beautiful Upper Peninsula scenery, and get a family photo with a bear cub.


Trails and hiking is part of the fun in the Saugatuck area. Home to Saugatuck Dunes State Park, hikers and mountain bikers will love the rugged trails that end on the shores of Lake Michigan. For bikers, Blue Star Trail is growing each year and is a great addition to the already very bikeable towns.


With 5,000 acres to explore, Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire offers a variety of options to just get outside and play. Enjoy the 750 acres that make up this combined trail system suited for hiking, biking and wildlife viewing.


In Bellaire, 31.5 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports trail await novices and avid trail users alike.


Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire is a special place and one of Michigan’s premier nature preserves. Located along Antrim County’s Chain of Lakes, Grass River Natural Area’s wetlands act as a filter for millions of gallons of water flowing into East Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan. Seven miles of trails and boardwalk take visitors through cedar swamp, sedge meadow, and upland forest. 


Holland boasts over 1,800 acres of parks for hiking, cycling, picnicking, and playing. With over 150 miles of paved bike paths, eight miles of mountain biking and hiking at the Riley trails, and over one-third mile of beautiful sandy beach at Holland State Park, there is truly something for everyone.

Set in the middle of the US-12 Heritage Trail, Coldwater Country is a haven for relaxation. From hiking and biking trails to two chains of lakes, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the area trails. Take a hike on the paved trails at Heritage Park in Coldwater or on the gravel trails along the Sauk River. 


Whether you are looking for a place to hike, bike, snowmobile, or snowshoe, Mecosta County has the trail for you, from a leisurely stroll while taking in a scenic view to a more challenging adventure. The Fred Meijer White Pine Trail is just under 100 miles long and is perfect for any time of year. The Hungerford Recreation Area in Big Rapids has separate trails for people to enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking


Marquette County is continually recognized for having the top trail networks in the state, region, and nation, holding a Bronze-level Ride Center designation from the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA). It is only one of two locations in Michigan with this award. In addition, with more waterfalls than any other county in the state.


South Haven has been named one of Pure Michigan’s first Trail Towns. There are two very popular biking and hiking trails: the Kal-Haven Trail and the Van Buren Trail. The Kal-Haven trail stretches from South Haven to Kalamazoo for a total of 33.5 miles, and the Van Buren trail stretches from South Haven to Hartford for 14 miles, and passes through the Van Buren State Park.


There are a number of hiking, biking, and even horse riding trails to check out in the Muskegon area, taking you through paved trails along the lakeshore and sand dunes, pathways through nature preserves, and trails that meander through oak savannahs and marshy fields.


Whether you prefer to explore on water or on land, Hastings has a trail for you. The scenic Thornapple River is adjacent to downtown Hastings and is easily accessible from Bliss and Tyden parks. The Riverwalk Trail follows the Thornapple for three miles and is suitable for walking, biking, and sight-seeing. For those seeking more of a challenge, the recently completed Hammond Hill Trail offers 7-miles of multi-use trails for hiking and mountain biking and more. Avid cyclists may also test themselves on the permanently marked Barry-Roubaix Killer Gravel Road Race courses (24, 32, and 64 miles) that take in some of the area’s most challenging trails and scenic back roads.

Water trails

Experience Lake Superior’s Keweenaw Water Trail sea kayaking with the Keweenaw Adventure Company, located on the northernmost tip of the Upper Peninsula in Copper Harbor. Join a guided tour to discover stunning views, Hawaiian-like lava flows, vibrant reefs, & breathtaking boreal forests. 


Indian River, named after the river which flows through it, is home to the 40-mile long Inland Waterway which runs through Pickerel Lake and Crooked Lake, the Crooked River, Burt Lake, the Indian River, Mullett Lake, the Cheboygan River, and finally into Lake Huron. It’s is the ideal location to boat, fish, hunt, camp, bike, kayak, canoe, raft, tube, stand-up paddle board, and more. 


With more than 100 lakes in Coldwater Country, a water adventure is a must — rent a pontoon or launch a kayak.


The Pere Marquette River Lodge in Baldwin sits on the banks of the legendary Pere Marquette River, which has been named one of the top trout fishing destinations in the world by Field & Stream magazine. It’s also a popular destination for canoers and kayakers looking for solitude on one of Michigan’s designated National Wild and Scenic Rivers. The lodge offers a full-service fly shop, guided fly fishing for trout, migratory steelhead, and salmon, and pheasant hunting trips. The fly fishing schools offered throughout the year are a great opportunity for beginners to learn the sport.


For those in search of a more relaxing stroll, enjoy the Big Rapids Riverwalk in Mecosta County, which is accessible to all. The Riverwalk is just under 3.5 miles long and follows alongside the beautiful Muskegon River. It features fishing platforms, benches, bike racks, and picnic areas on either side of the 250-foot wooden bridge that spans the Muskegon River.


The Chain of Lakes Water Trail, planned, coordinated and led by Paddle Antrim, is an extensive trail with over 80 miles of routes through 14 stunning lakes and rivers in Benzie County. This water trail has 81 access sites and stretches through four counties in Northwest Michigan (Antrim, Charlevoix, Kalkaska, and Grand Traverse). From the small upper lakes to Torch Lake, there is an incredible diversity of paddling opportunities, making it a destination for all paddlers.


South Haven is home to the Bangor/South Haven Heritage Water Trail, a great route for kayaking or canoeing for 21 miles. There are also a number of places to rent kayaks and other water vessels and accessories nearby. 

Other trails to try

Developed by the Mason County Historical Society in partnership with the Mason County Cultural Economic Development Task Force, the Ludington section of the Mason County Maritime Heritage Trail provides a free, interactive, and educational experience for residents and visitors to the community alike. The trail, which can be started at the Historical Society’s Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, will guide you along Ludington’s historic waterfront as you explore the fascinating history that is all around you. The trail features 13 stops, each with an exhibit-quality sign explaining the history and significance of that location to Ludington’s maritime heritage. 




Brioso String Quartet to perform July 25 at the Downtown Holland Street Performer Series

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, , , ,
Courtesy Brioso String Quartet

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


The popular Brioso String Quartet will appear at the Street Performer Series in Downtown Holland tomorrow night from 6:30-8:30pm, performing songs from Bach to Bruno Mars.


Every Thursday night this summer, the sidewalks of Downtown Holland are filled with performing artists and groups from every background, including musicians, balloon twisters, jugglers, magicians, aerial acrobats, dancers, face painters and so much more! The Street Performer Series is free to attend and is sponsored by Gentex Corporation.


The Brioso String Quartet has been providing quality instrumental music in West Michigan for over 20 years. The quartet comprises violinists, Tammy Clark and Jennifer Tuinenga, with Laurie Van Ark on the viola and Ginger Vandenbrink on the cello. While regularly providing traditional string music at hundreds of wedding receptions and other private events, the quartet is well known for bringing a fun mix of both classical music and popular favorites to the Street Performer Series, delighting crowds with hits from the Beatles, popular Broadway tunes and more.


The concerts are free for the public and are located on 8th Street between Columbia and Pine Avenues; 8th Street will be closed to traffic for the event for crowd safety purposes.


Although the Series is free to attend, tipping the performers is highly encouraged. In addition to the exclusive event sponsor, Gentex Corporation, the Street Performer Series is also supported by the Michigan Council for the Arts and Cultural Affairs through the Holland Area Arts Council.


Information about individual performers is available here.


Tom Coverly Illusion and Magic Show at the Henderson Castle

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Upcoming Events, ,
Courtesy Tom Coverly

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


Head to the Henderson Castle Aug. 16 for an amazing dinner as well as a comedy and illusion show by world renowned magician, “The Illusionist” Tom Coverly.


Your entertainer for the evening is one of the most-requested, clean adult entertainers in America. He has performed live for nearly 3 million people, has been seen on TV (ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS), entertained numerous celebrities (including the entire cast of the Batman vs Superman movie) and has shared the stage with the biggest names in music like Skillet, Toby Mac, Korn, Pop Evil, Thompson Square, NF and Danny Gokey (of American Idol), just to name a few.


Get ready to laugh a lot and have your mind blown by magic tricks that you will never forget! For more information about The Illusionist, go to TomCoverly.com.


Multi-course dinner includes soup & salad, bread & butter, entree choice, and dessert du jour.


Shows are Aug. 16, 5:30-8:30pm or 2nd Show 7:30-10:30pm. Tickets $87.00/person available at hendersoncastle.com


Event tickets are non-refundable at time of purchase, and by purchasing tickets you agree to these terms. Event tickets will not be transferable within 48 hours of purchase. Events are sometimes held in our 3rd Floor Ballroom. Guests who may have difficulty walking up the stairs should contact the Castle in advance of ticket purchase. There is a set menu, however, we are able to make adjustments in advance. We will not take dinner orders during the event, so after you make reservations, please let us know of any dietary restrictions by calling the front desk at (269) 344-1827 or emailing us at info@hendersoncastle.com.

Pet-friendly travel ideas around West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Holidays, Pets/Animals, Recreation, Senior Living, ,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


The family pet doesn’t have to miss out on the family vacation. Here are a few ideas of places to stay and fun things to do with your furry friend in West Michigan. Find more pet-friendly travel information in the Carefree Travel Guide. 

Pet-friendly travel in the south region 

No need to leave Fido at home during your next Coldwater Country getaway. Several local hotels, including the Coldwater Inn, are pet-friendly.


South Haven has become an extremely popular destination for pets, so many businesses cater to pet owners and their furry friends. For lodging, check into the Sun ‘n Sand Resort or the Kal-Haven Outpost for unique lodging experiences. Comfort Suites is also accommodating to pets.


Looking for a vacation rental home? Check out Lakeshore Lodging for their select pet-friendly properties. Once you arrive, treat your dog to a beach day on one of South Haven’s pet-friendly beaches. Outdoor seating is also available at select restaurants downtown.


Your four-legged friend is welcome on Journeyman Distillery’s outdoor deck, overlooking the 18-hole Welter’s Folly putting green in Three Oaks.


Pets are welcome to come with you to enjoy an evening of music on the patio at Waypost Brewing in Fennville. Click here to see upcoming performers and events.  


Lakeshore Lodging has pet-friendly vacation rental townhomes, condos, cottages, and cabins near the gorgeous Lake Michigan lakeshore in the Saugatuck, Douglas, and Fennville area. 

Pet-friendly travels in central region 

Historic White Pine Village is open to dogs and people alike. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10am until 5pm (last tour tickets at 3:30pm), the Village is situated on 12 acres with 30 buildings and/or exhibits to see. It generally takes about two hours to walk through. Dogs must be on a leash and owners are expected to clean up any messes. For more information please visit the Mason County Historical Society website.


Holland is a very pet-friendly town. The walkable downtown area is perfect for taking a stroll and grabbing a brew while enjoying the atmosphere of a bustling downtown on an outdoor patio with your pup. There are also many local pet-friendly parks for walking, running, hiking, and playing, such as Windmill Island Gardens. Pet-friendly Holland Hotels include Best Western Plus, Microtel Inn & Suites, Residence Inn, and more. Contact the Holland Visitors Bureau for your Guide to Dog-friendly Holland.


Traveling in Mecosta County? The Country Inn and Suites in Big Rapids allows pets to stay overnight for a fee of $10 per night, per pet. More lodging accommodations in Mecosta County can be found under the “Lodging” tab on Mecosta County’s website. If you’re looking to pamper your pet, there are multiple venues throughout Mecosta County offering things from homemade treats to pet grooming. For a more detailed list of places in Mecosta County that allow pets, visit the “Pet Friendly Amenities” page. 

Muskegon County also loves pets. With one of Michigan’s best dog beaches and a new downtown Muskegon dog park — plus an assortment of pet-friendly accommodations — your pet is welcome to Visit Muskegon too! Information on pet-friendly dining in Muskegon can be found at the Visit Muskegon site. 


Find pet-travel tips or your new travel companion at Pet.A.Pawlooza, July 27th in Grand Rapids. Hosted by Michele’s Rescue, Pet.A.Pawlooza is a collaborative community event promoting education, resources and adoptions with vendors that are made up of shelters, rescues, wildlife rehabs, veterinarians, boarders, groomers and pet-related products.

Pet-friendly travel north/UP region

From canine-approved lodging that includes the newest all-suite hotel to water bowls at sidewalk seating and a park that begs for a game of fetch, leaving your best friend behind doesn’t have to be a part of the vacation plan in Marquette.


Your pooch is welcome to bring you along to the Petoskey Area where you’ll both be welcome to stay in specified rooms throughout the area, including full-service resorts Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls and Boyne Highlands in Harbor Springs. The Terrace Inn & 1911 Restaurant in Bay View offers a pet-friendly apartment unit. Chain facilities such as Holiday Inn Express & Suites Petoskey as well as locally owned hotels with indoor pools like Apple Tree Inn in Petoskey, Odawa Hotel of Petoskey, and Stafford’s Crooked River Lodge & Suites in Alanson. Stop by Ruff Life Pet Outfitters in downtown Petoskey for everything to keep your pup happy. Zoll Street Beach in Harbor Springs is a great place to cool off and play. And most parks and trails in the Petoskey Area offer a terrific place to sniff and stroll (while leashed, please).


At the Terrace Inn in Bay View, Petoskey, the former downstairs ice cream parlor has been converted to a pet-friendly apartment. It has a queen bedroom, living room with wicker chairs, comfy red leatherette sofa, furnished kitchen, full bath, and private entrance that opens to the garden. There is an outdoor pet-friendly patio too, with a gate so you can tie up your pet at the table (or not if the gate is closed). The apartment can be rented year round by the weekend, for a week, or a month. 

Shanty Creek Resort recommends bringing your precious pup with and stopping into nearby Meadowpond Pet Resort. Just a few minutes down the road from Shanty Creek in Bellaire, Meadowpond is a full-service resort for dogs offering indoor/outdoor suites. In addition to being open 24/7, Meadowpond guests can enjoy the in-and-out privileges allowing Fido to join the family on day trips to nearby Torch Lake and other fun area destinations.


Bring the entire family to Mackinac Island this season with the Mission Point Pooch at the Point package, which offers accommodations in their newly renovated guest rooms, a welcome amenity for your pet, round-trip ferry tickets, and much more. Resting on the sunrise side of Mackinac Island, Mission Point is a great pet-friendly summertime retreat located just a short stroll from historic downtown. Boasting 18 acres of lakefront property on the sprawling shores of Lake Huron, Mission Point offers genuine hospitality and relaxed elegance with on-site dining and recreation experiences.


Drummond Island Resort is pet-friendly and has large, open green spaces for dogs to roam free.


The Traverse City Econo Lodge loves canine guests. Call in advance to ensure the availability of a dog-friendly room. Pet-friendly accommodations keep you in ground-floor rooms near the exits, so it is easier to go out for a walk. And don’t forget to get your dog a treat when you check in.


Where to camp in West Michigan

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Recreation, Senior Living,

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


S’mores, campfires, sky-lit nights, and the sounds of nature… what’s not to love about camping in West Michigan! Whether you are looking for a spot to pitch the tent or planning where to hook up the RV, we’ve got some great ideas to help with your next camping adventure. 

Glamping (i.e., glamorous camping)

On June 15th, The Fields was unveiled as the Midwest’s first luxury glamping experience. Nestled within a lush working blueberry farm in South Haven, The Fields is a 30-acre site that offer guests a deluxe outdoor experience complete with luxurious tents, chef-prepared meals, and access to a variety of exciting on-site and local activities. Located only 3.5 miles from the glistening beaches of Lake Michigan, the property features 10 rooms that each come complete with wood-burning stove, king-size bed, luxury linens, en-suite bathrooms, and luxury bathroom amenities and towels, along with stylized fixtures and seating, providing guests with five-star resort conveniences combined with effortless comfort. Reservations are available through the last weekend in October. Click here to book your luxury camping experience at The Fields.

In addition to tent sites, RV sites, and cabins, the Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday unveiled four new Luxury Glamping Tents this season, and they’ll make you want to stay all summer. Perfect for a romantic weekend away, the tents offer both heating and cooling, plus rocking chairs on the porch to enjoy summer evenings. They also come with refrigerators to keep your food fresh until it’s time to grill up dinner.


Love to experience the outdoors but don’t want to completely be in the elements? When you visit Bellaire, try glamping in tents and Yurts outfitted with high-end mattresses, chairs and linens to make your stay a little more comfortable.

Plan time on the water during your camp-out

Muskegon County offers 16 campgrounds, with many located in state and local parks along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Others are conveniently located near the many attractions Muskegon has to offer. You’ll find relaxation on the banks of beautiful Big Blue Lake at the YMCA Camp Pendalouan Family Camp in Muskegon. Paddle clear waters in a kayak or canoe, enjoy wooded paths on horseback, or nap with the sounds of nature in the hammocks and swings. Ziplines, hikes and more round out the possibilities.


Looking for a quiet, peaceful night under the starry skies? At the Pine River Paddlesports Center in Wellston, you have the opportunity for a quiet camping experience in a clean and quiet campground, where the ‘quiet hours’ are 24/7. All sites are private, hedged around on three sides with woods, and all come with a picnic table, lantern hook, locking garbage can, and a fire pit with an adjustable grate. The sites are rustic, with a clean, central bathroom facility complete with flush toilets, coin-operated showers, and hot running water.

You’re invited to camp, relax, play, and enjoy this summer at En Gedi Campground River Resort in Leonidas. This family friendly campground offers activities for all ages. Kids will love the bounce house on Saturdays and water-lovers will appreciate the on-site livery with canoes, kayaks, and tubes.


Little Switzerland Resort and Campground is a peaceful and friendly place located just two miles north of Newaygo. The campground is nestled off of Pickerel Lake where you can enjoy 300 ft. of lake frontage with a private beach and swimming area. There is a playground, basketball court, and volleyball area to use during your stay. Fishing, sunbathing, and water sports are excellent. Public golf courses are a short drive away.


There are many beautiful spots for camping in Holland. The Holland State Park campground welcomes visitors to either wooded or beach-adjacent lots, while the Oak Grove Resort offers spots for travel trailers or brand-new camping cabins. Farther from the beach, Drew’s Country Campground or the Dutch Treat Campground offer affordable campsites with great amenities.


Mecosta County has quite a selection of public campgrounds for visitors to choose from when they visit. The Mecosta County Parks all have camping amenities to fit your lifestyle, whether you’re interested in swimming, fishing, or hunting. There are seven wonderful county parks, such as School Section Lake, Haymarsh Lake, or Merrill-Gorrell Park. 

Fisherman’s Island State Park boasts over six miles of unspoiled Lake Michigan shoreline near Charlevoix with 80 rustic campsites, 15 of which are nestled in the dune area shore.


Covert Park Beach & Campground, with one quarter mile of beach on the shore of Lake Michigan, offers day passes as well as campsites available between mid-May and mid-October.

Campgrounds with family entertainment

No matter how you like to camp, Cran-Hill Ranch in Rodney has a spot for you. Their campgrounds can accommodate anything from a tent to the largest of RVs. All of their sites have 30-amp electric and water, with an on-site dump station. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. They have four different camping areas to choose from.


Pitch a tent, pull up in an RV, or stay in a cabin at Covert/South Haven KOA Holiday Campground. Kids enjoy the Jumping Pillow, trampoline basketball, rock climbing wall, gem mining sluice, carpetball, gaga ball, craft time, movie nights, and two fishing ponds. Order pizza, nachos, or a panini from the cafe, and have it delivered to your site. Try some hand-dipped ice cream too.


The Kal-Haven Outpost is a new campground and general store located on the Kal-Haven Trail, just 4 miles from downtown South Haven. The Outpost offers three vacation homes; six spacious family cabins; four roomy couple’s cabins; twenty 70-ft., pull-through RV sites; wooded primitive sites; and a bathhouse. All lodging options are pet-friendly.


Yogi Bear’s Camp-Resort is South Haven’s family resort, located just five miles from Lake Michigan. Take advantage of outdoor fun for the whole family with resort amenities, complete with cable and Wi-Fi. The campground is located only 1/2 mile from the scenic Kal-Haven Trail. Cabins and cottages are pet friendly and offer ADA accessibility. 

Located just minutes from downtown Marquette and at the heart of the area’s vast trail network is the Rippling River Resort and Campground. Nestled along the shores of the Carp River and set on nearly 40 acres, the resort offers rustic tent sites, RV hook-ups, and even luxury cabins.


Enjoy a cabin rental on the shores of beautiful Lake Huron at Mackinac Lakefront Cabin Rentals, a family friendly resort just outside of Mackinaw City. Featuring 16 modern cabins and shaded RV sites, this quiet country setting will provide you with many hours of enjoyment. It’s located just three minutes from downtown Mackinaw City, the Mackinac Bridge, and the ferries to Mackinac Island.

RV parks

Offering over 200 full hook-ups, three pools, a recreation hall, game room, playground, firepits, and fishing pond, Poncho’s Pond RV Park in Ludington has grown to be one of the top-rated privately owned parks in Michigan. Open April-October, Poncho’s Pond RV Park has plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. 

Sunny Brook RV Resort is a 65-acre luxury RV resort located in South Haven, three miles from Lake Michigan, offering nightly, monthly, and seasonal rental. 


Enjoy free weekend events, homemade ice cream at the ice cream parlor, dinner theater, and homemade turkey dinners at Turkeyville Restaurant when you stay at Camp Turkeyville RV Resort in Marshall.

More campground and RV parks to visit in the Upper Peninsula: 

More campground and RV parks to visit in the North Region: 

More campground and RV parks to visit in the Central Region: 

More campground and RV parks to visit in the South Region: 

More campground and RV parks to visit around the state: 

Educational activities & events to add to your summer vacation

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Kids Activities, Senior Living, Travel, Upcoming Events, ,
Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

By Adrienne Brown-Reasner, West Michigan Tourist Association


From museums to camps, and historical tours to workshops, there are so many educational options to add to your West Michigan summer vacation.


Check our calendar to see what events are happening.

All summer long

Jump Around Fun Center’s Virtual Reality arcade in Ludington not only has fun & surreal 360-degree, fully immersive games for ages 7+, but also a collection of cool educational VR experiences that allow you to explore things like the solar system, underwater expeditions, and even how cells work within our bodies.

The gardens at the W.K. Kellogg Manor House (courtesy photo)

For 25 years the Keweenaw Adventure Company in Copper Harbor has been enacting ethical business practices that today are being defined on an international scale as sustainable and/or responsible tourism.


Immerse yourself in nature at the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary in Augusta, where you can see waterfowl, game birds, songbirds, and birds of prey as you walk the picturesque trails around Wintergreen Lake. Visit the W.K. Kellogg Manor House and Estate to tour the cereal king’s grand former summer home and beautiful gardens and grounds. Built in the 1920s, this restored gem is a fantastic door to history.


Visit the Hackley & Hume Historic Site of the Lakeshore Museum Center in Muskegon with the family. Bring the young ones, and while the adults are enjoying a tour, kids can enjoy their own history experience with games, tours, and make’n take activities.


While visiting Ludington, you will want to check out the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, which helps you discover the town’s rich maritime past.

Courtesy Sandcastles Children’s Museum

Kids can enter a world of exploration and learning when they discover the many exhibits and activities at Sandcastles Children’s Museum in Downtown Ludington. This summer’s events include Kindermusik, Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicles, Robotic Legos and puppet shoes, just to name a few.


The Pump House Museum and Learning Center in Holland focuses on interpreting the histories of the resort communities which were built beginning in the 1880s around the western end of Lake Macatawa, about five miles west of downtown Holland. There are activities for youngsters, as well as a display of Big Red stories and illustrations created by area upper elementary school students.


Spending your vacation in the Mt. Pleasant Area? The Art Reach Center in Downtown Mt. Pleasant hosts events focused on the arts for all ages. The Chippewa River District Library (CRDL) hosts a variety of events each month, focusing on the subjects of arts, science, history and more.


Next time you’re visiting Saugatuck/Douglas, use their Saugatuck-Douglas history app on your phone to learn more about the historical sites/attractions in the area. It’s interactive, fun and educational all at the same time.

Courtesy Mecosta County Convention and Visitors Bureau

There’s lots of family fun educational entertainment in Mecosta County. The Big Rapids Community Library has resources for the community including books, computers, various events and programs year round as well as throughout the summer, including the Seed Library. For a more collaborative list of all the wonderful places to enjoy fun with your kids, check out the Mecosta County “Family Fun” brochure as well as other brochures such as “The Robert Barnum Art Tour” and the Ferris State University “Bulldawg Tour” all of which can be found here.


The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is coming to Holland. This free outdoor exhibit will be located just two blocks from Downtown Holland. In Centennial Park, thousands of annual plants will be used to create a 10’ X 12’ “open book” cover of this classic novel. The iconic yellow brick road will lead you to Herrick District Library where it continues through landscaped areas of colorful annuals and perennials.


The Outdoor Discovery Center in Holland is a non-profit outdoor education organization. Through its programs, demonstration areas and interpretive exhibits, the Center provides students and community members with up-close views of nature and learning opportunities about the West Michigan environment. The ODC Nature Preserve is a 130-acre preserve with almost 5 miles of trails that are open dawn to dusk.


Hemlock Crossing Park near Holland offers exhibits, a wildlife den with critters and educational activities, a wildlife viewing area, and much more.


Learn about farm animals and pet chickens, ducks, rabbits, sheep, goats, cows, and more at the Critter Barn in Zeeland. The Critter barn is open Monday through Saturday, from 10am-6pm.

Holland Museum (courtesy photo)

The best way to get acquainted with Holland is to take a crash course in its fascinating history. At the Holland Museum, you’ll learn about the arrival of the Dutch in 1847, their struggle for access to Lake Michigan, the devastating fire of 1871, and the amazing story of Holland’s rise from the ashes. Also on display is an extensive collection of Dutch fine and decorative arts, such as Delftware, silver, Dutch costumes and fine furniture. These artifacts tell the story of over 400 years of Dutch History.


Bring the kids to explore and learn at Raven Hill Discovery Center, which is located on 166 acres in Charlevoix County, nestled in a rural setting with pond, swamp, forest and fields. Let them explore the museum and animals as well as experience science and technology, history and the arts.


This summer, the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo is opening an engaging new exhibit, D-Day 75: En Route by Plane & Parachute. Learn how Allied forces made incredible sacrifices to bring an end to the terror of Nazism in Europe as the exhibit takes a dive deep into the 75th anniversary of D-Day. 

Courtesy Mackinac Historic Parks

This summer, Journeyman Distillery in Three Oaks will offer free one-hour, Sunday morning chipping and putting lessons for children ages 7-15 on their 18-hole, Welter’s Folly course. PGA Professional Mike Laughner, will lead the classes for pint-sized putters. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited.


Step back in time with the Mackinac State Historic Parks at Fort Michilimacinac in Mackinaw City and Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island.


This summer, learn how to kneeboard, water ski, and wakeboard at Action Wake Park in Hudsonville.

One-time/special events

The Grand Rapids Public Museum will be showing a special double feature of The Queen Light Show and Dark Side: The Light Show in the Chaffee Planetarium. Music enthusiasts will rock out to the music of Queen and Pink Floyd paired with stunning visuals on the planetarium dome. The Museum’s doors open at 6:30pm with the first show starting at 7pm.

Camps

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean it’s time to stop learning. Marquette’s Northern Michigan University offers the perfect mix of education and exploration during its Environmental Science Camp. Paddle the AuTrain River to Lake Superior to monitor water quality issues. Learn about local minerals, techniques used to extract them, and how mining affects the environment and society.

Courtesy West Michigan Tourist Association

Looking for a more artistic approach to your education? Stop in to Artworks in Mecosta County throughout the summer to discover one of their various classes, including four different summer camps that can help your child release their inner Picasso.


Find more camp options in our Summer Camps List.

Other museums, nature centers, and historical spots to add to your summer vacation: