Tag Archives: West Michigan Tourist Association

5 Local Things You Need to Know: For the weekend, to start next week

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By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

Wyoming: Spring Carnival wraps up this weekend

Wyoming’s celebration of spring, its annual carnival at Lamar Park, is wrapping up its final days. The carnival runs through Sunday, May 6. The carnival features entertainment for all ages, including games, prizes, and carnival fare favorites. A spectrum of rides will be available for carnival-goers, from crowd pleasers, such as a carousel and Ferris Wheel to the adrenaline-inducing Mega Drop and Wipe Out.

 

For full story, click here.

 

Time for the Tulips

Buff up those wooden shoes and head toward Holland as the city gears up for the annual Tulip Time festival. There will be Dutch dancing, parades, a carnival, an artist market, performances of all kinds, five million tulips in bloom, and more Dutch dancing. The official activities kick off Saturday, May 5, and run through May 13.

 

For more, click here. 

‘Dust-Off’ Metro Cruise kicks off May 5

‘Dust Off’, the precursor to the annual Metro Cruise, kicks off this Saturday, May 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. It’s become a favorite tradition, with car owners revving up for the summer car show, finally being able to show off what has been stored under those tarps.

 

For full story, click here.

30th anniversary edition of Lighthouse Map now available

Lighthouse lovers, get ready to plan your next lighthouse adventure! The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) is excited to announce the release of the 2018 Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour. This is a free poster-sized publication which details all of the lighthouses located on the shores of Lake Michigan, as well as the Circle Tour driving route to guide motorists around the lake.

 

For full story, click here.

Live Mermaid to return to Grand Rapids Public Museum

Admission to Dragons, Unicorns & Mermaids is $12 for adults, $7 for children, $9 for Kent County resident adults, $4 for Kent County resident children, and $2 for all Museum members! Tickets include general admission to the Museum, and can be purchased online at grpm.org or by calling 616.929.1700.

 

For full story, click here.

 

 

30th anniversary edition of Lighthouse Map now available

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By Jeremy Witt

West Michigan Tourist Association

 

Lighthouse lovers, get ready to plan your next lighthouse adventure! The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) is excited to announce the release of the 2018 Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour. This is a free poster-sized publication which details all of the lighthouses located on the shores of Lake Michigan, as well as the Circle Tour driving route to guide motorists around the lake.

 

To celebrate this year’s 30th anniversary edition of the Lighthouse Map, WMTA has partnered with the Sable Point Lighthouse Keepers Association to offer one lucky winner the chance to win a two-night stay at Big Sable Point Lighthouse in Ludington. Interested parties are invited to enter to win this prize at the WMTA website: https://www.wmta.org/lake-michigan-lighthouse-map-circle-tour/win-a-stay-at-big-sable-point-lighthouse/

 

The full circle tour driving route around Lake Michigan is available online, and website visitors may also download a PDF of this year’s Lighthouse Map, or request that a free copy be mailed to them. https://www.wmta.org/lake-michigan-lighthouse-map-circle-tour/

 

Vacationers have been looping the lake for generations, but the official “Lake Michigan Circle Tour” route was not established until the 1980s when the Michigan Department of Transportation teamed up with West Michigan Tourist Association to create the route and its official guidebook. Along the way, travelers will find more than 100 lighthouses, countless islands, unique attractions, parks and natural areas, miles of glorious beaches, quaint harbor towns, and one “modern marvel” – the Mackinac Bridge.

 

While a loosely-organized “circle route” around Lake Superior was promoted by local tourist organizations as early as the 1960s, the first official (and signed) Great Lakes Circle Tour was the Lake Michigan Circle Tour. The only single-nation Circle Tour (Lake Michigan being the only Great Lake completely within the US), the Lake Michigan Circle Tour also has the most mileage of any Circle Tour in the state.

 

Working in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Transportation, the West Michigan Tourist Association helped to make the first of the official Great Lakes Circle Tours a reality and the first publication was released in 1988 as a 52-page guide book. The guide book was transformed into a map in 2007, and the Circle Tour driving route can now be found online.

 

Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map & Circle Tour publications are also available in bulk quantities; please contact Travel@WMTA.org for more information. The Lighthouse Tour Map also is available at the WKTV station, 5261 Clyde Park SW.

Summer Camps in West Michigan offer myriad fun activities

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Photo courtesy of Compass College of Cinematic Arts

By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

 

It’s nearly that time again! Get your child involved in some fun and meaningful activities — consider a summer camp!

 

Make a movie this summer with the Film and Acting Summer Camps at the Compass College of Cinematic Arts in Grand Rapids! Learn from professionals how to act on camera and make films when the camp runs from June 18th to 22nd for ages 13 to 18. Film Camp students will write, shoot, and edit your own short film with guidance from seasoned filmmakers. In Acting Camp, you’ll learn on-camera acting techniques with a film actor as your coach and then star in a film produced by Film Camp. At the end of the week, walk the red carpet at the film’s premiere for family and friends on the big screen!

 

The Downtown Market in Grand Rapids has three-day and four-day summer camps for the young foodie in your life. Each camp has a distinct theme, ranging from Michigan’s fruits and vegetables to creating and utilizing a backyard farm. Sign up today for what Downtown Market cleverly calls their “Simmer Camps”!

 

Tiny dancers at the Grand Rapids Ballet dance camp (photo courtesy of GR Ballet)

The Grand Rapids Ballet has a variety of camps that are all centered around dance. Their Ballet School has programs for ballet, young dancers, boys ballet, and summer intensive training. They also have two Adaptive Dance programs: Explorer Dance (for children with Down syndrome) and Dancing with Parkinson’s (for adults with Parkinson’s disease). These Adaptive Dance classes allow students to experience the joy of dancing who may otherwise not have the opportunity to do so. Summer camps at the Grand Rapids Ballet are both fun and accessible for everyone!

 

The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre has summer camps that give students the chance to spend an entire week learning about theatre while having a blast making new friends. They’ve made some fantastic additions to their extremely popular summer camp program this year, so you’ll want to take a look at their new offerings for the season. Camps range from age 4 all the way through high school!

 

Summer fun happens at the Grand Rapids Public Museum! Join them and explore the wonders of science, history, culture, art, and fun! For nine weeks this summer, kids ages 4 to 14 can use the museum as a learning lab, experimenting and growing, all while having a great time in one of the area’s most history-rich and “cool” environments.

At The Critter Barn (photo courtesy of Critter Barn)

 

The Critter Barn in Zeeland offers a one-of-a-kind Critter Camp class for students who are eager to engage in animal care. Work through the entire farm with the barn’s staff and return to volunteer throughout the entire year. These camps are available for ages 8 to 15.

 

 

Bicycling in West Michigan

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By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

 

There’s nothing better than getting some fresh air while riding your bike on one of West Michigan’s many trails. With trails of varying length and difficulty, you can find something for any skill level. Are you looking for a relaxing ride along the lakeshore or a challenging trek from one city to another? There’s a trail for that! If you’re looking for an excuse to get out on your bike, then spring and summer in West Michigan are the perfect seasons to put on your helmet and hit the road.

 

Bicycling in Southern West Michigan

If you are a pedal pusher of any kind, the Kalamazoo County Parks should be on your list of places to check out. Kalamazoo is a hotbed of cycling activity that appeals to both mountain bikers and road bikers alike. A hidden gem for road cyclists is the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail. The KRVT offers more than 22 miles of paved trail that connects the Kal-Haven trail to the heart of Kalamazoo and beyond.

 

The KRVT is part of a greater vision called the “Great Lake to Lake Trail” that will connect South Haven to Port Huron when complete. If hitting dirt trails is more of your expertise, Kalamazoo has something new and exciting to offer too. Last summer, the Maple Hill Trail was officially opened to the public. This 5-mile trail offers bidirectional riding depending on the day, and has something to offer riders of all skill levels. These two trails are just scratching the surface of what Kalamazoo has to offer!

 

Virtue Cider is very bike-friendly and it’s often a stopover for cycling tourist all year long. They’ve added a small in-house menu for travelers needing to fuel up or refuel! Grab a gourmet grilled cheese or choose from their selection of packaged charcuterie, cheeses, and snacks in the Bottle Shop.

 

Make sure to download the Coldwater Country Map-N-Tour app, including a 15-mile and 20-mile bike tours of the area. The app also includes local favorite things to see and do, along with places to stop for a bite after working up an appetite on the area bike tours.

 

River Country is known for its amazing outdoor beauty, and there’s plenty to enjoy. Outdoor activities are plentiful in all seasons, including plenty of biking. One must-visit place is the Dr. T.K. Lawless Park in Jones. This 10-mile paved trail is best suited for beginners and intermediate riders, but everybody will find something to love. The trail offers a very fast, tight, and twisty single track, which is great for control practice.

 

Hastings offers something for cyclists of all ages and skill levels. River Walk Trail is open to cyclists and is a pleasant excursion for those seeking an easy, scenic ride. Hammond Hill Multi-Use Trail offers more than six miles of trail through rolling hills, woods, and meadows. It is suitable for mountain and fat tire bikes. Year-round cyclists, whether training for an event or simply seeking a challenging ride, can follow the area’s local race’s permanently courses along Barry County’s scenic back roads.

 

Coldwater Country Map-N-Tour app

Rent or bring your own bike to the Greater Lansing area and trek through over 15 miles of trails along the Lansing River. If you want to ride through the city, a trip through trendy Old Town and downtown Lansing is both bicycle-friendly and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to ride in a bustling downtown setting or want to visit the tranquil beauty that is the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, you’re already in the right place.

 

More bicycling in Southern West Michigan

  • Coloma-St. Joseph KOA, Riverside
  • Cranberry Lake Campground, Marcellus
  • Biking in Central West Michigan

Did you know that the Hart House Bed & Breakfast in Hart is cyclist-friendly? It’s located near the Hart-Montague Trailhead, offers secure bike storage, and has a repair area with the tools necessary to fix your bike. There’s also a brewery and pizza joint nearby for thirsty and hungry riders looking to load up on carbs and proteins for the next day’s ride. Return to your private room in the evening to relax after a nice long day.

 

If you’re visiting Grand Haven and wish to enjoy the sights in a different way, Electric Bike Place offers electric bike rentals. Rent by the half or full day and cruise in style through the area’s trails, along the lakeshore, or to and from downtown. Electric Bike Place even provides the bikes, locks, and helmets, making renting an electric bike and enjoying your day on the town even easier.
Windmill Island Gardens is conveniently located very close to downtown Holland. Less than a mile separates great downtown shopping from acres of Dutch-themed fun. It’s a very quick bike ride and Windmill Island even has bike racks available at their entrance for visitors to stash their fiets (Dutch for “bike”!).

 

Enjoy paved trails or rustic single tracks for biking or hiking in Muskegon County. The Hart-Montague Trail and Musketawa Trail offer 24 and 26 miles of paved rail-to-trail recreation. And, three state parks, city and county parks offer options for hiking the signature sand dunes. Over 25 miles of single track winds through rolling hills, marshes, lakes and forests. Trailhead access is off Russell Road where a day pass or season passes are available. Beginners, choose the shorter two-mile green loop. The blue and black trails offer intermediate and experienced riders a 10-mile or 13-mile loop over roots, bridges, and ridgelines, with plenty of lake/stream views.

 

For more ideas on where to go bicycling, visit West Michigan Tourist Association.

 

 

Grand Rapids resident takes over Buchanan’s Hickory Creek Winery

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Adam McBride recently took over Hickory Creek Winery.

By Jeremy Witt

West Michigan Tourist Association

 

In early September 2017, the ownership and management of Hickory Creek Winery in Buchanan officially changed hands from previous owners Eric and Jayne Wagner to Adam McBride of Grand Rapids. Hickory Creek is featured on the

and sits on a picturesque 38-acre farm and vineyard in Southwest Michigan.

 

New owner and winemaker McBride is energetic and optimistic about Hickory Creek’s future, while respectful of its past. He explains, “Eric and Jayne built a brand that focuses on a classic European winemaking style featured in a postcard picture setting at Hickory Creek Winery. I hope to maintain the reputation they worked hard to build over the past few years. As a winemaker, I know Eric has prided himself on making elegant wines featuring the varietals this part of Michigan is known for. And Jayne has created a welcoming feel in both the tasting room and the cottage. I want to continue what they have started.”

 

McBride, a Grand Rapids native, describes his purchase of the winery as a long-time dream becoming a reality. After college, he served for nearly a decade on active duty in the Air Force before returning home to West Michigan. He explains, “My passion for wine and my dream of owning a winery started over ten years ago while traveling across Europe and living in German wine country during my last duty assignment. The dream has always been in the back of my mind since then.”

 

Hickory Creek Winery is located at 750 Browntown Road, Buchanan.

After completing his military service, he spent several years building his professional skill set while directing logistics and transportation operations for two of Michigan’s most prominent manufacturers; first for Steelcase and then Stryker. He explains, “My civilian logistics career was amazing. I learned so much about leadership, operations management, lean principles, and six-sigma methodology. But I never lost my passion for wine and my dream of getting into the field full-time someday. I really started positioning myself to take this leap a couple years ago. It’s sometimes hard to believe it actually happened.” McBride completed his master’s degree in Business Administration at Michigan State University in 2016 to prepare himself for the rigors of starting and operating his own business. He followed that up by taking on his formal wine education in California, studying at the Napa Valley Wine Academy under winemakers, sommeliers, brand managers, and other industry experts. He now holds a Level 3 Award with Distinction from the Wine and Spirits Education Trust based in London. And his education continues, as he is currently taking classes through Lake Michigan College’s Viticulture and Enology degree program.

 

The transition of the business from the previous owners was just the beginning of the hard work for the 41-year old father of two. As both owner and winemaker, McBride faced a steep learning curve from the very start. Just days after completing the sale of the winery, the grape harvest started in full force. McBride bought as many grapes as he could get his hands on, more than 36,000 pounds that had to be processed by hand. His goal was to process enough grapes to return Hickory Creek’s storage tanks and barrels to full capacity, a necessity after the brutal winters of 2014 and 2015 devastated grape harvests and depleted the winery’s inventories. McBride notes, “The 2017 harvest was incredible. The fruit quality was amazing and the yields were excellent. I was able to get almost everything on my wishlist from the local farms.”

 

The local winemaking community has shown its support for the newcomer over the past few months. Experienced winemakers and local business owners have guided McBride on many aspects of the business. In addition to providing technical expertise and advice, multiple wineries signed on to supply fruit for the 2017 harvest. The collaboration between the local wineries in Southwest Michigan is unique according to McBride, something he hasn’t witnessed between competitors during his time in the corporate world. “I’ve been amazed by the support of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail and its 21 member wineries. The Makers’ Trail has been a huge help as well. The other winemakers and winery owners have welcomed me into the community with open arms. They all want to see Hickory Creek do well and they genuinely want to help me get started on the right track as the new guy. The collaborative spirit is refreshing. Everyone is pulling together to set us up for success.”

 

When asked about his vision for the winery, McBride’s plans are simple. “I want to continue Eric and Jayne’s legacy of crafting high-quality small batch wines in the classic European style. I want customers to see our products and wine overall as approachable and our staff as welcoming and authentic. I also want a visit to Hickory Creek to be enjoyable and educational. Hopefully, our customers have fun, but also learn something from their visit.”

 

Hickory Creek features a selection of red, white, and rosé wines. Many of the red wines feature Cabernet Franc either as a varietal or in Bordeaux-style blends. White wines feature Riesling and Chardonnay, both as varietals and in blends. They range from dry to semi-sweet. The Hickory Creek tasting room is located on the winery premises at 750 Browntown Road in Buchanan, Michigan. It is open daily from May to October (Monday and Thursday 11am-5pm, Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 11am-7pm, and Sunday noon-6pm). From November to April, it has limited opening hours (Monday 11am-5pm, Friday 11am-5pm, Saturday 11am-6pm, and Sundays noon-5pm). The property also features a 2-story cottage available for rent through Airbnb and VRBO. Details for the tasting room and cottage can be found at hickorycreekwinery.com and on the Hickory Creek Winery Facebook page.

Close-to-home trips to consider as spring finally comes to West Michigan

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With Spring Break around the corner and — believe it or not — summer not that far away, West Michigan Tourist Association Marketing Manager Courtney Sheffer offered some tips on a few places to visit.

 

A sunset view on the S.S. Badger

Ludington

This month, the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum has opened. Sheffer noted this is one of the newer attractions in Ludington with the museum featuring an extensive history on maritime activities. Along with the many authentic artifacts, there is a virtual reality experience where visitors can experience piloting the car ferry Pere Marquette 22 into Ludington’s harbor. The experience gives people a chance to learn the unique light signals of Lake Michigan’s many lighthouses as well, Sheffer said.

 

Then you can go from virtual reality to actually riding the last coal-fired steamship in the United States. The S.S. Badger makes its maiden voyage for 2018 on May 11 and runs through the last day of the season in October.

 

The S.S. Badger offers nostalgic, four-hour cruises across Lake Michigan to and from Manitowoc, Wisconsin twice daily in the summer season. Sheffer said visitors can also enjoy themed two-hour shoreline cruises in the summer such as the Fourth of July Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean Shoreline Cruise on July 25. For more on the S.S. Badger and its schedule, visit www.ssbadger.com.

 

Michigan’s Adventure

Muskegon

“It’s so close to the Grand Rapids area that it is a great day trip destination,” Sheffer said, adding that along with all of its out door activities, one of the biggest Muskegon attractions is Michigan’s Adventures, Michigan’s only adventure park.

 

Michigan’s Adventure, which opens in May, offers a number of rides from the Thunderhawk and Shivering Timbers roller coasters to the family fun of Lakeside Gliders and the Swan Boats. The 250-acre complex also has a waterpark, Wildwater Adventure, with wave pools and splash pads, with admission covering both parks. For more information, visit www.miadventure.com.

 

There is also the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, which is located inside the Muskegon State Park. There is cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding or sledding on five miles of groomed track. Also, the complex is home to one of four luge tracks in the nation, giving visitors the chance to feel what it is like to luge like an Olympian, Sheffer said.

 

The Heritage Landing Park at Hilt

Head just a little north of Muskegon to White Lake, where the Michigan Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing, operated by the Lakeshore Museum, will be opening in May.

 

“There is this path that you go through the park and walk on, and travel through Michigan history,” Sheffer said. “They say they have 10,000 years of Michigan history.”

 

There are many “make and take” vintage craft opportunities such as candle dipping and an opportunity to unearth a mastodon at a dig site, she noted. For more on the Lakeshore Museum Center go to lakeshoremuseum.org.

 

The Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum

South Haven

Everyone likes to head south this time of year and just south of the Grand Rapids area is South Haven.

 

“There are a lot of indoor history museums in the South Haven area and lot of these are free to visit as well,” Sheffer said. “So it is a good time of year to head south and do some of that.”

 

A few places to visit include the Liberty Hyde Bailey Museum, which is the birthplace and childhood home of America’s “Father of Modern Horticulture,” Liberty Hyde Bailey Jr. The museum is a National historic Site and includes a garden, park and educational outreach center.

 

The gardens at the W.K. Kellogg Manor House

The Historical Association of South Haven has its home in the old Hartman School Building in South Haven and features a number of exhibits. And then there is the W.K. Kellogg Manor House in Hickory Corners, which was built in the 1920s by cereal magnate W.K. Kellogg. The home overlooks Gull Lake and there are free self-guided tours, but Sheffer said you do need to call ahead to reserve a spot.

 

For more ideas, check out the 2018 West Michigan Carefreee Travel Guide which is available at the WKTV station, 5261 Clyde Park Ave. SW or visit wmta.org.

 

“So there is a lot of information here, whether you want to stay close to home or maybe take a trip up north for the weekend or down south to like the South Haven area,” Sheffer said about the guide.

Head north to Traverse City, Petoskey for some winter fun

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Winter is hanging on in West Michigan so there are still plenty of cold weather things to do in the West Michigan area.

 

Recently, Courtney Sheffer, marketing director for the West Michigan Tourist Association stopped by the WKTV Journal to offer a few more ideas on some winter fun in northern West Michigan.

 

Shanty Creek Resorts

Traverse City

 

For those looking to learn to ski or snowboard, there is still time as Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire offer the Super Sunday deal until March 18. The deal is $29 per person and includes lift ticket, rental equipment, and staton-by-statin group lessons.

 

“I’ve done the lessons as Shanty Creek and they do a really great job breaking it down, even for beginners who never touched a board,” Sheffer said. “They make it easy to understand and it is great place to learn.”

 

Shanty Creek Resorts also other activities such as alpine tubing and in the summer, golfing. For more about Shanty Creek, visit its website, shantycreek.com.

 

Sweet treats at Kilwin’s

Petoskey

 

Another favorite winter spot is Petoskey, which Sheffer noted “has a lot of outdoor gems as well. A lot of outdoor trails, a lot of hiking paths, lots of beaches right there.”

 

But for those looking for more of an indoor-type activity check out the Kilwin’s Chocolate Kitchen, Sheffer said.

 

Petoskey is actually Kilwin’s home base and the store at 1050 Bay View Rd. does have free tours Monday through Friday with samples. It is advisable, according to the Kilwin’s website, to make a reservation for a tour. For more information, visit kilwins.com.

 

Maple Moon Sugarbush and Winery

Since we are on a sweet theme, another popular Petoskey spot —especially as Michigan turns to spring — is the Maple Moon Sugarbush and Winery, 4454 Atkins Rd., Petoskey. The family-owned business offers tours seasonally on the maple sap being transformed into maple syrup. Tours are available at 4 p.m. every Saturday.

 

“And if you are looking for anything maple theme, they have it there,” Sheffer said. “They have maple wine, maple foods, maple candy.”

 

For more, visit mmsyrup.com.

 

Harbor Springs 

 

Inside the Lyric Theatre

Right near Petoskey is Lyric Theatre in Harbor Springs. Sheffer said this is a fun place to visit as every Saturday the theater, located at 275 E. Main St., features family favorites with tickets at 25 cents. She noted that it harkens back to the days when the theater first opened and today provides a great budget-friendly adventure to anyone.

 

For more budget friendly ideas on things to do in and around West Michigan, whether it be winter, spring, summer and fall, pick up a West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide available at the WKTV station, 5261 Clyde Park Ave. or visit wmta.org.

Boredom is not an option, thanks to a multitude of kids’ activities in West Michigan

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By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

 

West Michigan abounds with kid-friendly activities to stave off cabin fever and boredom — there are plenty of things to enjoy from resorts and parks worthy of a ‘staycation’ (or vacation) to area museums and arts centers.

Kids Activities in Central West Michigan

The Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park has seven courses that are broken into four different skill levels. Each course takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete, but you have three hours to do as much or as little as you please! They have activities for kids of all ages with a mini zipline course designed for kids ages 4 to 6, and a main deck which starts with kids that are 7 years old. You may have a hard time getting your kids to come back to the car when you visit this outdoor adventure park!

 

A visit to Catch Air in Grand Rapids is sure to have your kids jumping for joy! Their indoor adventure park has inflatable slides, jungle gym, bounce castle, and more. Catch Air is also the perfect place for a birthday party! Throw the most memorable and enjoyable party ever without lifting a finger. Whether you’re stopping by for an afternoon of fun, or celebrating a birthday, Catch Air is always a hopping place to be!

 

The Tri-Cities Historical Museum in Grand Haven is the perfect place for young learners who don’t want to be limited to just reading. Instead, step in, see, touch, and even smell all things history. Each exhibit is housed in a structure that is appropriate for the era. For example, the Woodland Era of Native American history is found inside an authentic birch bark wigwam. While The Tri-Cities Historical Museum is open to all ages, parents and guardians typically find 1st grade and above to be the most invested in the exhibits, though highly engaged parents will find something teachable in each exhibit!

 

The Critter Barn in Zeeland is a nonprofit educational farm spanning three acres. Their curriculum focuses on promoting an understanding of agriculture, food sources, animal care, animal science, volunteer initiatives, and the farmer’s role in feeding the world. They have an authentic learning environment with many friendly animals! Working on a farm, even visiting a farm, develops character and deepens an appreciation for the world around us.

 

Marshall Museum of Magic

Beat the winter blues with a family fun trip to the Holland Museum! Here, you can grab a special hands-on “Meet Me at the Museum” backpack, filled with activities designed to get kids moving through the galleries while completing kid-friendly challenges and activities. The backpack is free to check out with paid museum admission, and is appropriate for children ages 3 to 8 years old.

 

Families with children love Muskegon County for its wide variety of kid friendly attractions and events! Michigan’s Adventure is Michigan’s only major theme park! From the heart-pounding rush of Thunderhawk and Shivering Timbers roller coasters to the family fun of Lakeside Gliders and the Swan Boats, the amusement side of this 250 acre complex offers thrills of all sizes and fun for all ages. Wildwater Adventure features towering slides, refreshing wave pools and splash pads and your admission ticket covers both parks!

 

The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex offers exciting annual events and outdoor sports facilities for families. This beautiful venue inside Muskegon State Park has one of only four publicly accessible luge tracks in the country for kids eight and up! You can also cross-country ski, snowshoe, snowboard or sled on five miles of groomed track day or night!

 

Michigan’s Heritage Park at Hilt’s Landing is a perfect family activity, promising an outdoor adventure for all ages. Your tour will take you through 10,000 years of Michigan History in a natural woodland setting “Make and Take” vintage crafts such as candle dipping are part of the experience, or become a paleontologist and help unearth a mastodon at the dig site. Kids and adults alike will cherish their time in Muskegon!

 

Bring the kids to Ludington to learn all about the area’s maritime history. The newest jewel in Ludington’s museum-tourist attraction crown is the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum. Visitors can experience piloting the car ferry Pere Marquette 22 into Ludington’s harbor via a virtual reality experience, learn the unique light signals of Lake Michigan’s many lighthouses, and experience many authentic artifacts used in the story of the Ludington’s celebrated harbor and by many of its famous Coast Guardsmen and car ferry sailors.

 

The Mt. Pleasant area is home to fun for kids of all ages. The indoor waterpark at Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort is sure to be a hit with the whole family. The waterpark features a lazy river, indoor surfing pool, climbing wall, and more. There’s more to see in Mt. Pleasant, including museums and indoor play areas, where your kids will love to learn and burn off some energy!

More Kids Activities in Central West Michigan
Kids Activities in Southern West Michigan

The Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings is part of the Hastings Public Library’s Creative Science Night on February 21st. Join the institute and other local organizations in hands-on science demonstrations and activities geared towards preschool through 5th grade students.

 

The Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven is a great place to bring the whole family! Kids will enjoy the hands-on exhibits, all while learning about maritime history. Step aboard on the museum’s tall ship, Friends Good Will, for a Pirate Chaser Sail, where your family is part of the crew as you chase down pirates on Lake Michigan and recapture treasure. Make history come alive for your family at the Michigan Maritime Museum!

 

Coldwater Country is home to an abundance of things to see and do. Ride the rails of an authentic 100-year-old steam engine train, or have a family fun day driving go karts, or playing paintball and laser tag.

 

Timber Ridge Ski Area in Gobles has activities and events all winter long, including an array of programs for kids to learn to ski or snowboard. They also have tubing open on the weekends for those looking for an easygoing ride down the hills. Stop by from February 23rd to 25th for their Winterfest Family Fun event, which includes activities for the whole family. If you’re looking for winter fun, look no further than Timber Ridge!

 

Tri-Cities Historical Museum

The February First Adventures with Nature events at Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek are perfect for children ages 2 to 5 years old. First Adventures with Nature can help you engage in your child’s learning, while increasing their understanding of the natural world around them. The zoo’s experienced leaders are dedicated to connecting and inspiring the next generation of wildlife enthusiasts!

 

Looking for a fun and educational way to get outside with your family this winter? Visit the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary in Augusta to see and learn about a variety of bird species, including Trumpeter Swans, a native species that the Sanctuary helped to reintroduce to the Midwest. Walk one of the trails around beautiful Wintergreen Lake to see waterfowl, birds of prey, game birds, and songbirds. The sanctuary also offers educational programs for children and adults year-round, with a full calendar of events available on their website.

 

Hastings’ Playing at the Spray Plaza program offers free music, entertainment, and educational programs for children between preschool and 12 years old. The program is hosted every Thursday and lasts for nine weeks, from June 14th to August 9th. Don’t forget to bring the kids’ swimsuits, so that they can enjoy playing in the spray plaza before and after the show!

 

The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts offers free admission for kids through age 12, and admission for adults is only $5 (students are $2). Ten galleries filled with art include a “Please Touch” Kids Corner, recently updated with a black light alcove, music making stations, art books, and more. Their Art Detectives programs for kids 4 to 8 with an adult introduce the youngest among us to the art museum, with a story, gallery stroll, and art-making.

 

The Air Zoo in Kalamazoo is a highly charged, multi-sensory atmosphere that goes beyond anything you’ve ever seen. It’s like no place else on Earth! Voted the “Best Place to Take Out-of-Towners” and “Best Place to Spend a Day with Your Family” three years in a row, the Air Zoo features more than 50 rare and historic aircraft, amusement park-style rides, Full-Motion Flight Simulators, and RealD 3D/4D Missions Theater, as well as historical exhibits and educational activities.

 

The Marshall area is filled with fun for your kids. From hands-on museums and farms to the great outdoors and conservation, your whole family will learn something new when they visit. Plan your next trip using the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance’s trip planning resources.

West Michigan Tourist Association: Christmas Fun in Northern West Michigan

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Crystal Mountain

Elvyn Lea Lodge in Boyne City is the perfect place to host your next holiday get together. Guests enjoy comfortable accommodations in twenty guest rooms with varied bed configurations. Two lounges, 44 wooded acres with trails, a spectacular 1.5 acre event lawn, and fire pit area are also available. With the log-beamed ceilings in the lounge and pine walls throughout, this authentic “up north” lodge offers modern comforts and amenities, yet has retained its rustic charm.

 

Voted “Best Steakhouse” in Michigan by MLive, Vernales Restaurant in Harbor Springs is serving up delicious food for your family’s Christmas celebration. In addition to a dine-in menu, they also have to-go orders and off-site catering. You can feast upon flank steak, brisket, broiled whitefish, chicken parmesan, penne alfredo, and more. Whether you’re looking for a meal at their steakhouse or something to bring back for a Christmas at home, Vernales will be serving up a delicious holiday menu all season long.

 

Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville is hosting a Holiday Celebration from Dec. 16 to Jan. 6. This celebration includes everything, from the 17th Annual Snowiest Snowflake Contest and photos on the mountain to outdoor laser tag and a family campfire. Stop by anytime over the three weeks for holiday fun!

 

Left Foot Charley Winery in Traverse City invites visitors of all ages to experience Phil Kline’s Unsilent Night on Friday, Dec. 8. Unsilent Night is a free, outdoor participatory sound sculpture of many individual parts played through a roving swarm of boom boxes, mp3 players, iPhones, iPads, laptops, all carried through a cloud of sound which is different from every listener’s perspective. Unsilent Night is an international event that has taken place in cities, such as New York, Los Angeles, Missoula, and Melbourne. Detroit and Traverse City are the only Michigan cities among the members of the international community that are part of this phenomenon.

 

There are so many ways to celebrate Christmas with Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire. Plan a weekend getaway to relax, unwind, and celebrate. Choose the weekend before Christmas when Santa will visit to read holiday classics during Storytime with Santa, taking advantage of Breakfast with Santa the following morning, and the annual Tannenbaum Blitzen celebration Saturday night. Saturday wraps up with the Torchlight Parade, led by the big guy himself, down Schuss Mountain. Shanty Creek Resorts also has a gift to you this holiday season: Join Santa on the slopes of Schuss Mountain on December 25th and ski for free!

 

Three events at the Grass River Natural Area in Bellaire lets your family bring out their creative side. Take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle on Saturday, Dec. 9, to create an assortment of holiday crafts and gifts. Return on Saturday, Dec. 16, to create nature ornaments and decor using glass globes, wood, candles, and objects found on the trail. Each weekend brings another exciting craft to help you decorate your home for the holidays.

 

Charlovoix is popular place during the holidays.

During the holiday season, Charlevoix’s restaurants offer a festive variety of unique holiday food options. Enjoy a variety of Christmas lights downtown and in residential areas, and visit the area’s shops to find unique gifts for someone special. Also Castle Farms in Charlevoix will have a holiday train display open through Dec. 23.

 

Starting Dec. 15 and ending Dec. 31 is Light Up the Soo, an event where the citizens and local business owners of Sault Ste. Marie decorate their homes and businesses celebrating the holidays. Your family will love the beautiful lights and decorations that are put up over town as part of this community event.

West Michigan Tourist Association: Christmas Fun in Southern West Michigan

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The Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College in Benton Harbor is hosting the Mix & Mingle Holiday Party on Tuesday, Dec. 19, with food, beverages, and good times. A sumptuous buffet awaits guests, with featured selections including chef-carved ham and turkey, a deluxe salad bar, mashed potato station, side dishes, and dessert. Guests enjoy a full cash bar with a wide selection of Michigan wines, craft beers, and mixed drinks. Following dinner, guests can take the short walk inside The Mendel Center to the Mainstage where Bryan Lubeck is back to host “Rejoice 2017: A Tapestry of Holiday Music” at 7:30pm. Mix & Mingle Holiday Party tickets are $25 per person, while “Rejoice 2017: A Tapestry of Holiday Music” tickets start at $24, with discounts available for groups of 10 or more, as well as for seniors, veterans, students, and Mainstage Series members. Group dinner and show packages start at $43 per person.

 

Brass Rail Quintet at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute

Get into the holiday spirit with a toe-tapping Christmas concert, featuring the Brass Rail Quintet at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings Monday, Dec. 10. Playing a variety of musical styles are Roger Lynch and Mike McMinn on trumpets, Ken Cron on tuba, John Dickey on trombone, and Chris Garrett on French horn. After the concert, stop by to meet this quarter’s exhibiting artist, Brian Smith.

 

Celebrate the holiday season in a turn-of-the-century Victorian setting at Historic Charlton Park in Hastings. Tour over 15 historic buildings, while partaking in activities of yesteryear, including roasting chestnuts, drinking wassail, and taking wagon rides in the snow. Create your very own crafts, as you enjoy popcorn, fresh baked cookies, cinnamon and sugar apples, and plum pudding. These festivities are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9 and 10, at the park.

 

 

International Festival of Lights

Battle Creek will look very festive all month long, as they hang the lights and run through the downtown area. Running through Dec. 31 is the International Festival of Lights. Walk through the glowing paths, enjoy fun family activities, and take a horse drawn carriage ride to see this annual light display. On Saturday, December 9th, don your best ugly sweater and partake in the Tinsel Toes 5K run and walk in downtown Battle Creek, weaving your way through the lights at night during this unique event.

 

Experience wintry evenings at Binder Park Zoo with Zoolights from Dec. 15 to 23 in Battle Creek. Stroll along lighted paths with nightly entertainment as you view some of the weather-hardy animals on exhibit enjoying the winter season. These special evenings will include unlimited free carousel rides, up-close animal meet and greets special holiday activities, time with Santa and his animal friends, and storytime with Mrs. Claus. There’s also Dinner with Santa each night.

 

Slow down from the hustle and bustle of the holidays with a visit to the Barn Theatre in Augusta! Celebrate the Christmas season with all of your favorite carols and holiday songs each weekend between now and Christmas. To add to the festivities, guests enjoy complimentary pie, coffee, and hot chocolate.

 

Holiday carolers are a holiday tradition that guests look forward to as much as the staff at Schuler’s Restaurant in Marshall. Enjoy the sounds of the season while dining with Schuler’s in the festive Centennial Room on Dec. 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, and 19. There will be a rotating pool of performers each evening. Schuler’s is also hosting its famous Holiday Sunday Brunch Buffet every Sunday through the end of the month.

 

Arcadia Brewing Company in Kalamazoo hosts an Ugly Sweater Party on Thursday, Dec. 21, giving you an excuse to bust out your favorite ugly holiday sweater.

 

Bell’s Eccentric Cafe in downtown Kalamazoo has a variety of events during the holiday season including Eccentric Day, which this year will be held on Friday, Dec. 8. Along with an impressive tap lineup, the debut of their latest version of Eccentric Ale, a Kalamazoo exclusive, and a free food buffet. Admission is free and the only requirement is that you come ready to have a good time. Just a few days later, on Sunday, Dec. 10, Tuba Christmas will return to the Cafe’s Back Room. Admission for this annual event is free. Local tubists will play some holiday classics starting at 3 p.m. for an all-ages show.

 

The Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn is hosting a Christmas lights show called Nite Lites for the first time this year. The show takes your through the grounds and has more than three miles of Christmas lights for visitors to enjoy.

 

The Boulevard Inn & Bistro in St. Joseph is hosting their Sundays with Santa on Dec. 10 and 17. Treat your children to a magical brunch, telling Santa their wishes, picking their favorite foods from the special buffet, and decorating their own cookies!

 

Michigan Flywheelers Museum

The Michigan Flywheelers Museum will hold Christmas at the Flywheelers on Dec. 8 and 15 at their museum in South Haven. The old-fashion holiday event features lighted outdoor displays, holiday music, kids’ craft workshops, and a visit with Santa. It’s been five years since the museum last held this event, and museum members have been busy since September decorating the grounds, expanding displays and adding more lighted exhibits.

 

The Ugly Sweater Party at Virtue Cider in Fennville is Saturday, Dec. 16. They’ll be giving away prizes for ugliest, most creative, most festive, and more. Of course, there will be plenty of ciders on draft, plus snacks and mulled cider to keep you toasty. Virtue Cider is also outfitting their outdoor spaces with additional fire pits, more seating, covered pergolas, and natural wood-stacked walls to build out some snugs spaces. Once the snow starts falling, they’ll have snowshoe trails cut out for those who would like to explore the orchard’s 48 acres.

 

This year’s Chef’s Holiday Pairing Dinner at Crane’s Pie Pantry, Restaurant & Winery in Fennville is Saturday, Dec. 9. This is an exquisite, eight-course pairing dinner, featuring local fare paired with Crane’s wine and hard cider. The evening includes food, drinks, music, and an education on the wonderful things produced at Crane’s.

 

Join the Michigan Maritime Museum in South Haven on Saturday, Dec. 16, for Christmas at the historic Keeper’s House. There will be children’s book readings of the Christmas Tree Ship every hour, hot cocoa, Christmas tree cookies, sledding, and a little nautical holiday shopping. The event is free to attend.

West Michigan Tourist Association kicks off Annual Photo Contest

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By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

 

Get out your cameras and start making pictures — it’s time for the 2017 West Michigan Photo Contest! The West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) is looking for traveler photo submissions from all around West Michigan, which includes the entire west side of Michigan from the Indiana border to Mackinac Island and into the Upper Peninsula.

 

All photo entries must be received by July 31, 2017, for public voting by WMTA’s Facebook audience. All winning photos will be featured in WMTA’s upcoming West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide, printed in January of 2018. The first-place photo will also be featured on the cover of the Guide.

 

Additional prizes awarded to the top three photos include items from Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park (Grand Rapids), Indigo Bluffs Resort RV Site (Empire), Lewis Farms (New Era), Electric Bike Place (Grand Haven) and Michigan’s Adventure (Muskegon).

 

The accepted photo formats are high-resolution (300 dpi+) jpeg or tiff. CMYK is preferred. Email your submissions to PhotoContest@WMTA.org and include your full name, the city that the photograph was taken, and a short description of the photo. Submit one photo per email; multiple entries per person are allowed.

 

For full contest rules, go here.

 

Fun things to do with dad on Father’s Day in West Michigan

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By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

Don’t forget that Father’s Day is Sunday, June 18th. This is a day all about celebrating dad. Many West Michigan businesses are hosting special events, discounts, or offers for the dad in all of our lives. No matter their interest, you’ll find something for him here. Give dad the gift of West Michigan this Father’s Day.

Father’s Day in Southern West Michigan

Arcadia Ales in Kalamazoo is hosting a free corn hole tournament on Father’s Day. Come show off your skills, with the winning team receiving bragging rights and beer specials on their next visit.

Father’s Day orders are rolling in at Allen & Sons Woodworking in Linden. Place your order for one of their handcrafted Michigan-shaped chairs, garden planters, or tables. They have plenty of products to choose from, and they even do custom orders if you have something special in mind. Check them out on Facebook, and place your order today to receive it in time for Father’s Day!

Book a stay at the Inn at Harbor Shores in St. Joseph for Father’s Day and add up to four golf rounds with cart per room for only $85. The Harbor Shores Golf Course is a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course and hosts, on even years between 2012 and 2024, the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship.

Celebrate dad with a dinner at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute in Hastings. The evening’s program will feature information about the full solar eclipse that will move across the United States this August. Richard Bell of the Kalamazoo Astronomical Society will highlight what an eclipse is, where to see the eclipse, and how best to experience it.

Take dad on a fun-filled trip through Coldwater Country. Hop on a historic steam locomotive and make your way from Coldwater to Quincy with an opportunity to get off the train and see the locomotive switch around for your return trip.

The dad in your life will enjoy a Father’s Day weekend in River Country. Kick off the weekend with dinner at one of the area’s many restaurants before you enjoy some time outside canoeing, kayaking, bicycling, hiking, and golfing throughout both Three Rivers and Sturgis.

Visit Henderson Castle in Kalamazoo this Father’s Day for a one-of-a-kind event. The front lawn of the Henderson Castle will be transformed into a Live Chef Action Grill. Chef Moyet will be grilling up all of Dad’s favorites: Ribeye Steak, Foie Gras Burgers, Baby Back Ribs, and Juicy Grilled Chicken. Traditional sides will include Baked Potato, Cole Slaw, Pasta Salad and more! Each table will receive a family style Garden Salad and choice of individual dessert: Apple Pie or Blueberry Pie. Kick off Summer and treat Dad to a very special day!

Take dad out for a golf weekend at Gull Lake View Golf Club & Resort in Augusta. They have six courses, making it a prime location for a golf outing. Their newest addition, Stoatin Brae, sports amazing views all around the course and vistas that rival courses across the country.

Father’s Day in Central West Michigan
Art by Avery Seaver, Grade 10, Montague, Mich.

The 39th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival in White Lake is scheduled for Father’s Day weekend, June 17th and 18th. Nearly 75 creative and talented artists come together for the juried art show. Attendees have the opportunity to peruse and purchase an assortment of handmade items including jewelry, paintings, prints, wood furniture, and more. Throughout the weekend, enjoy a lineup of local music artists and food vendors.

The Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park is hosting a Father’s Day special on Sunday, June 18th. Dads climb free with purchase of one regularly priced ticket! This event will book up fast so get your tickets now before it’s too late. Use the code WELOVEDADS for daytime tickets or WELOVEDADSNNIGHT for evening tickets when you book online.

Downtown Market in Grand Rapids wants to help you and your dad have the best neighborhood barbecues this summer. Their Father’s Day Grill Off Class is Sunday, June 18th from 10am to 12:30pm. You’ll be grilling crostini with burrata cheese and grilled flank steak with classic chimichurri and asparagus.

Give dad the gift of live theatre at the Circle Theatre in Grand Rapids! From June 1st to 17th, Neil Simon’s hit Broadway play, Brighton Beach Memoirs, comes to the Circle Theatre! This is a story of a young man with big dreams who always has one eye on the ball and the other on a girl. For music lovers, the Music of Fleetwood Mac comes to the Circle Theatre on Monday, June 5th, followed the next week by Uptown Funk: The Best of the Funkiest on Monday, June 12th.

Pigeon Creek Golf Course in West Olive welcomes all fathers, grandfathers, great grandfathers, and more to a Father’s Day weekend celebration. To give thanks to these men, they’re giving dads a free cart rental all weekend long. To receive this offer, mention this West Michigan Tourist Association promotion when booking your tee time.

Bring dad to Ionia for the Wizard of Oz Festival on June 17th. Main Street is transformed into the Yellow Brick Road before your very eyes! As a tribute to the Wizard of Oz, they have planned a full day of fun for everyone. The movie that started it all will be shown at the historic Ionia Theatre. Tickets are priced as they were seventy-eight years ago at just 25 cents per person.

For the Electric Bike Place in Grand Haven, Father’s Day is a time to celebrate all the dads. To help you celebrate, they’re giving dads a buy one, get one half off special for half day rentals on Father’s Day! This means that you can get a rental for dad and receive half off your rental. Spend the day riding through Grand Haven together on these unique electric bikes, a perfect activity for the entire family.

Get the gift of adventure for dad this Father’s Day from MACkite in Grand Haven! Their kiteboarding lesson are a fun and unique gift for any dad that loves being out on the water. During these lessons, dad will be pulled by a kite as long as 19 meters on a board, right on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Their two day kite school lesson camps are in Muskegon, and are available for Thursday/Friday or Saturday/Sunday lessons.

Bring dad out to Lewis Farm Market in New Era for Father’s Day! Dads will enjoy free admission, an apple cinnamon donut and coffee, all on the house! They will be open at 10am until 5pm, giving you plenty of time to stop by.

Kids camp for free over Father’s Day weekend at both Muskegon KOA Campground and Covert/South Haven KOA Campground. This national promotion has been growing in popularity the past few years thanks to this special offer and the great experiences had by dads and their families.

Hackley & Hume Historic Site

In addition to 16 beautiful golf courses, 23 charter fishing operations, historic ships and Lake Michigan sugar-sand beaches, Muskegon has some wonderful events for you to enjoy with your dad on his special day! The 26th Annual Antique Tractor and Engine Show is June 8th to 10th with tons of events packed into this three-day event. The Civil War Encampment is June 10th to 11th from 8am to 4pm, with skirmishes each day. Each June, the Promo Tours give classic car owners the chance to show off their rides. This year’s event is June 11th from 4pm to 10pm with over 200 classic and antique cars lining Western Avenue. The Muskegon Powerboat Weekend is June 16th to 18th with more than 80 boats on the 65-mile run. Rounding out the events are free tours for dads at the Hackley & Hume Historic Site on June 18th. Pack the month with celebrations for dad in Muskegon!

Mecosta County is the place to be for any dad that loves to fish or golf. The area is not only home to over 100 lakes and smaller streams, they also have the majestic Muskegon River. With 14 locations to purchase a fishing license and places to rent kayaks, tubes, or canoes, the area truly has everything that you need to enjoy a day on the water! The area also has five golf courses for you to choose from. Each course provides its own beautiful scenery and range in difficulty.

Father’s Day in Northern West Michigan
Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse

Spend time with dad learning about the history of the Mackinac State Historic Parks on Mackinac Island and in Mackinaw City. You can visit five living historical sites, including Fort Mackinac, the Mackinac Art Museum, Colonial Michilimackinac, Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, and Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park. Dads will love these incredible historic spots, and you can even purchase discounted admission passes on their website.

Grab your clubs and take dad for a round of golf at one of the four championship courses at Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire. Tight fairways, formidable doglegs, and elevation changes are the perfect challenge for any golfer. You can even have dad try out something new with FootGolf at Shanty Creek’s Summit Golf Course. This hybrid of soccer and golf has you kicking a soccer ball into a 21-inch diameter cup.

Located on Walloon Lake, Hotel Walloon is the perfect place to treat dad. Reserve a spot aboard the relaxing “Tommy’s to Barrel-Back” Sunset Cruise for the whole family. These hour and a half long tours run seven days a week, with snacks and beverages included onboard.

The Bay Harbor Village Hotel in Bay Harbor is the perfect place to stay for Bay Harbor’s 15th Annual In-Water Boat Show. Taking place over Father’s Day weekend, check out all the boats as they come to town from June 16th to 18th.

Wings Over Northern Michigan Airshow

Get your jump on Father’s Day with the Wings Over Northern Michigan Airshow in Gaylord on June 14th. The Canadian jet team will perform only Wednesday evening and will not be present at the weekend show. This is a fantastic mid-week surprise for dad, and is truly an entertaining event for the whole family!

Treat dad to a superior Father’s Day weekend in Marquette. Grab the golf clubs and hit the links at one of the area’s many golf courses. Spend the evening with a cold beverage at brewery or take a walk through a national park and enjoy Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in all of its glory.

Father’s Day is about creating special moments, and the Charlevoix area is a great place to bring dad for a special weekend together. Take dad on a special trip by hiking through their amazing trail system, golfing at any of the five area courses, or kayaking or boating in one of their lakes or rivers. For the adventure seeker, go skydiving, biking the Lake to Lake trail, and explore the Little Traverse Wheelway. There is always an adventure awaiting you in Charlevoix!

 

 

Memorial Day celebrations in central West Michigan

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At Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park

By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

 

Hard to believe, but Memorial Day is fast approaching. Here are a few fun things the whole family can enjoy!

 

The Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park has extended hours over Memorial Day weekend. If you want to pick up discounted tickets for the holiday weekend, stop in on May 20th for their May Kick-Off Event where tickets for shortened climb times and zip rides will be discounted, along with other giveaways and special offers. Spend the long weekend with family and friends among the trees.

 

The Grand Haven Area kicks off summer and celebrates Memorial Day weekend with a big summer run! There is something for everyone from the avid racer to the occasional walker, with their certified 5K Run, the 1 Mile Family Fun Run/Walk, and the Tot Trot obstacle course for ages 3 to 6. All ages are welcome to participate, so bring your mom, dad, grandma, and grandpa. Join your community for this annual family event to promote healthy lifestyles in the Tri-Cities area.

 

Inside USS Silversides

The Muskegon area has events throughout Memorial Day weekend for everybody. The Fruitport Old Fashioned Days is May 24th to 29th, and features fireworks, a carnival, community picnic, parade, Lions Ox Roast, a 5K Run, and more. Celebrating 30 years, the Lost Boat Ceremony on May 28th at the USS Silversides Museum is both a solemn and joyful celebration designed to honor the loss of 52 U.S. submarines and 3600 submariners during World War II. The 12th Annual Blessing of the Boats is the same day, with boats of all types gathering on Muskegon Lake near the Milwaukee Clipper for a parade of boats. Also May 28th is the Final Approach Memorial Program located at Old Grand Haven Road and Seaway Drive. May 29th brings a parade and American Salute Concert. Spend the morning watching seven bands and over 40 marching units highlighting patriotism and citizenship. After the parade, head over to the Frauenthal Theater for additional musical selections at this free performance. Muskegon celebrates Memorial Day in style and great quantity, so make sure to carve some time out of your calendar to experience it!

 

Join the Muskegon KOA Campground for an enjoyable holiday camping weekend. They require a three-night minimum stay for Holidays/Special Events, but it’s well worth your time. Stay from May 26th to 29th and enjoy an immersive outdoor experience. They have tent sites, a limited number of cabins, and a few 30 amp full service sites still available, but they’re going fast. Give them a call to book your stay today!

 

In celebration of Memorial Day, Mecosta County is home to the 4th Annual Memorial Weekend “4 Veterans Car and Craft Show” on Saturday, May 27th. There will be 32 awards including best of show, best car, best truck, best muscle car, best motorcycle, and many more! Other activities will include a craft show, door prizes, 50/50 drawings, and plenty of music. All proceeds will benefit local Amvets post 1941.

Alma, Michigan, is better known as Scotland, USA, over Memorial Day weekend each year as thousands of people gather together to celebrate the Alma Highland Festival and Games. The event is celebrating 50 years this Memorial Day weekend when they take over Alma on May 27th and 28th. This event has grown to become one of the largest, most prestigious attractions of its kind in the Midwest!

 

 

Places to add to your West Michigan summer fun bucket list

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Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park

By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

You might have a little extra free time this summer or have the desire to go on a road trip. With so many things to do and places to visit in West Michigan, how will you decide what to do? That’s where the West Michigan Summer Bucket List comes in handy. See how many places you can visit, or discover something completely new to add to your vacation schedule.

West Michigan
Navigate freely through the trees at Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park. Their event to kick off the season, Treetops Summer Kick-Off, is May 20th with discounted tickets for shortened climb times, zip rides, giveaways, and special offers.

Visit Grand Haven and the Electric Bike Place’s brand new MACTrack. This multi-terrain test track allows you to test ride some of the most popular electric bikes in the industry. Bring a lunch, enjoy a few hours of riding, and come talk about ebikes with their knowledgeable staff.

Visit the eight unique museums in the Marshall area. These eight museums feature a one-room school house, a house built in the Polynesian style, Civil War museum, governor’s mansion, U.S. postal museum, magic museum, country church, and gasoline museum. May 20th is tourism day in Marshall, and all the museums will be free to the public to celebrate.

Bring out your inner treasure hunter at Antiques on the Bluff in St. Joseph. Held along tree-lined Lake Bluff Park overlooking Lake Michigan, this antique show is a premier event for St. Joseph and antiquers around Southwest Michigan when it pops up on the first Sunday of each month from May through October.

Visit Saugatuck, recently named the #1 Best Small Towns to Visit in Michigan by Crazy
Tourist and Best Small Town Weekend Escape by USA Today, making it a place that needs to be on your bucket list. There’s no better way to see the town than a trip on the Star of Saugatuck. Featuring entertaining narration and a wonderful view of the town, you’ll want to be on the water when the Star of Saugatuck started their season on Saturday, May 6th.

Find exciting treasures at Downtown Market’s two summer pop-up shops. The Vintage Street Market is Grand Rapid’s only monthly vintage market, popping up the second Sunday of each month from May until September. This year’s Vintage Street Market vendors were carefully curated to provide the best variety of vintage goods Grand Rapids has to offer. The Made In Michigan Pop Up Market features over 50 vendors who proudly “make” in Michigan! Vendors bring their wares to the market on Saturdays, May 27th, June 24th, July 22nd, August 26th, and September 23rd.

Visit the Jewel of Barry County at the Historic Charlton Park in Hastings. Situated on 310 acres along beautiful Thornapple Lake, you can easily cool off at the beach, launch your boat, hike the trails, or pack a picnic for a relaxing meal. Join the park for their many special events, including Charlton Park Day, Father’s Day Car Show, 4th of July and Veteran’s BBQ, Gas & Steam Engine Show, and more.

From Muskegon Museum of Art’s Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian Exhibit

The Muskegon Museum of Art has an internationally recognized exhibit, Edward S. Curtis: The North American Indian, from May 11th to September 10th. This exhibit is the most comprehensive ethnographic and photographic historical record of Native Americans ever produced, comprised of 20 volumes of research and 723 photogravures.

Go to one (or 12) of LowellArt’s Showboat Sizzlin’ Summer Concerts. These free outdoor summer concerts run from June 15th to August 24th at the Riverwalk Plaza in downtown
Lowell with food and spirits available for purchase. Enjoy music from all genres, including jazz, country, big band, rock, R&B, and more all summer long.

Shoot sporting clays with your family at Blendon Pines in Zeeland. This activity is both safe and fun, with knowledgeable staff who are ready to help. Walk through the groomed trails to the 12 different shooting stations. Line up your shot and try your best to be the best sharpshooter in your family!

Visit Hastings for their brand new summer concert series, Hastings Live! Wednesday evenings feature the best in local music, while their Friday Night Features include regional artists and rising stars such as Hip Pocket, The Crane Wives, The Accidentals, and more. Listen to new music all summer with this new concert series.

The Lake County Historical Museum in Baldwin is a must-see museum. Located in a restored 1938 CCC-built U.S. Forest Service district ranger residence, the museum is filled with Lake County artifacts of every sort. There’s also the memorial garden, which is beautiful through the summer months and a highlight in downtown Baldwin.

Historic White Pine Village

Surround yourself with Civil War re-enactors at the Historic White Pine Village in Ludington. This is the site of a Civil War Muster featuring many re-enactors encamped on the grounds. Visitors will experience cannon firings, small arms interpretation, and morning colors.

Sail Lake Michigan aboard a Pirates of the Caribbean themed cruise with the S.S. Badger in Ludington. Passengers can wear pirate costumes and speak in pirate lingo on this festive Lake Michigan shoreline cruise aboard America’s last coal-fired steamship. Tickets are $39 and include a buffet with desserts and soft drink and live music.

Further afield

Celebrate the birthplace of cereal at National Cereal Fest in Battle Creek. The festival begins on Friday, June 9th with the Grand Cereal Parade, and continues on Saturday, June 10 with the World’s Longest Breakfast Table. Grab a bite with all-you-can-eat cereal.

The Inland Seas Education Association in Suttons Bay has three sails this summer that deserve a spot on your Bucket List. Their Breakfast on the Schooner Sail is Saturday, July 1st and Friday, August 25th, where you can enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast as you sail around Suttons Bay. On Friday, June 23d and July 21st, their Astronomy Under Sail gives you one of the best views of the night sky along with some informative commentary. Their Meteor Show Sail on Friday, August 11th, lets you see this amazing natural phenomenon aboard the 77’ schooner.

Schooner sailing

Many people have a visit to the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island on their Bucket List. With the hotel’s Family Added Value Days available select nights in July and August, you and your family can have the full Grand Hotel experience while saving along the way. Stay three nights and get the fourth night free, stay two nights and get the third night half off, or stay one night and get the second night 25% off. These stays include what has made the Grand Hotel such a sought-after destination, but with a little savings.

Explore a tropical garden filled with hundreds of exotic butterflies at the Grand Traverse Butterfly House and Bug Zoo in Williamsburg. Watch honeybees making honey, find your favorite tarantula inside the Tarantula Tree display, and discover beetles and friends in the Beetle Boulder.

Hop aboard a Tommy’s Rentals Sunset Cruise at Hotel Walloon on Walloon Lake. Offered every Friday night in the summer, these cruises include a captain, appetizer, wine, and beer. Also offered throughout the summer are the outdoor movies in the Village Green Park on Thursday nights. Grab a blanket or park your boat at the dock to catch an outdoor movie starting June 29th.

See some of the area’s best animals compete at the Berrien County Youth Fair on August 14th to 19th. There’s also concerts, carnival rides, food, and more to fill your week at the fair.

Visit Mecosta County and the second longest river in Michigan, the Muskegon River. On the
river, you can go tubing, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, and more. There’s 14 places to purchase a fishing license in the area, making it easier than ever to hit the waters in search for the big catch of the day.

Tahquamenon Falls

Visitors to Sault Ste. Marie have two attractions worthy of your bucket list: and the Soo Locks. Tahquamenon Falls is a 50-foot waterfall, with a park that is open year-round. The Soo Locks is widely considered a man-made wonder, used to help ships traverse the 21-foot drop between Lake Superior and Lake Huron every day and night. There’s much more fun to be had in Sault Ste. Marie, but these should be at the top of your list of things to see and do.

Celebrate Mackinac Island’s oldest hotel with a visit to the Island House Hotel. This historic landmark was originally commissioned by Charles O’Malley to be his summer beach house, and 165 years later, you can stay there when they celebrate their anniversary on July 7th.

Ride antique bikes in vintage or traditional British cycling attire and stay at Mission Point Resort during the Lakeside Ride with a Bit of Style on May 12th. The two-mile ride takes you through downtown historic Mackinac Island and past the Arch Rock in the state park. The event is free and open to all, but the best way to experience the event is with the Tweed Ride Experience Package from Mission Point Resort.

Find Michigan’s State Stone, the Petoskey Stone, or visit Avalanche Bay at Boyne Mountain Resort, Michigan’s largest indoor water park when you visit the Petoskey area.

If ziplining is one of those things you can’t wait to try, check out Wildwood Rush in Boyne City with its 1,200 foot triple racing line.

Rent a pontoon and make it a day of relaxation on the many lakes of Coldwater, or go to one of the remaining drive-in movie theaters in the state at the Capri Drive-In. Recently upgraded to digital, the Capri Drive-In shows first-run double features on each of the two screens.

Get the “up north” experience and try a new sport at Shanty Creek Resorts in Bellaire. Guests will find the beauty of the woods and water of northern Michigan at a slower pace far from the crowds and traffic. You can even try a unique sport called FootGolf, a hybrid of golf and soccer, that’s sweeping the world of golf in recent years. It is now a recognized tournament sport in over 20 countries, and the American FootGolf League recognizes 85 participating U.S. courses in 29 states.

For many, a trip over the Mackinac Bridge is a bucket list worthy goal, but once you arrive on the other side and head north, you’re treated to Marquette County. Here, you can visit Sugarloaf Mountain or go for a scenic hike at Presque Isle Park, often considered the finest natural city park in the world.

Waldo Wright’s Flying Service

Experience lazy-eights, steep and shallow 360 degree turns, and maybe even a few “whoopty-dos” at Waldo Wright’s Flying Service in Portage. Carrying up to 4 passengers in a large front-open cockpit, guests experience the sensations of flight in the open cockpit. See, smell, feel, and hear the experience for yourself on one of these rides.

For 42 years, the St. Ignace Car Show has been a Michigan summer staple for people who love automobiles. This year, Car Show weekend is June 22nd to 24th, when hundreds of custom, antique, and celebrity automobiles will be on display in the streets of this quaint Upper Peninsula community. This event is great for families and conveniently located near beaches, parks, hiking trails, and Mackinac Island ferries.

Enjoy West Michigan’s finest display of fireworks on July 3rd from the deck of the Michigan Maritime Museum’s tall ship, Friends Good Will. Sail out of South Haven onto Lake Michigan as you watch the fireworks light up the lake and sky on this memorable cruise.

Take the ferry out of Charlevoix to one of Lake Michigan’s most hidden gems: Beaver Island — America’s Emerald Isle. Enjoy a relaxing boat ride as you dock in Paradise Bay, surrounded by turquoise water and welcoming lighthouses. Tours are offered Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The Leila Arboretum & Kaleidoscope Garden in Battle Creek is a must-visit for families. Their Fantasy Forest is an amazing display of artistic talent and creativity. In 2015 and 2016, artists gathered from around the country to transform a grove of 100-year-old Ash trees into stunning works of art. They also have their Kaleidoscope Garden. Like the popular children’s toy, the Kaleidoscope Garden is always changing, highlighting different colors, shapes, and experiences as the seasons progress. Throughout the one-acre garden, visitors will take a closer look at how plants affect their everyday lives while getting a glimpse into some of Battle Creek’s interesting history.

The Grand Haven area’s Musical Fountain is truly one of a kind. The Grand Haven Musical Fountain is a synchronized water and light show accompanied by music of all varieties. Each 25-minute show features a variety of well-known music. The 2017 season opened on May 5th and runs through September.

See historical re-enactments at the 17th Annual Feast of the Strawberry Moon in Grand Haven on June 10th. This event brings in approximately 250 re-enactors, entertainers, demonstrators, and period vendors to provide the experience of the 18th century.

See how many rides you can squeeze into a day at Michigan’s Adventure  in Muskegon. They have everything from high-thrill roller coasters and water rides to the relaxing Lazy River. At Michigan’s Adventure, you get two parks for the price of one.

 

West Michigan Tourist Association marks 100 years of promoting West Michigan

Travel, , , , , ,
Hugh J. Gray was appointed secretary/manager of WMTA upon its formation, and is honored with a stone cairn constructed of one stone from every county in Michigan to commemorate Gray as the “Dean of Michigan’s Tourist Activity.”

By Jeremy Witt

West Michigan Tourist Association

 

On May 7, 1917, delegates from across Michigan gathered in the Pantlind Hotel in Grand Rapids (today part of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel), to work together to form the Michigan Tourist and Resort Association (today known as the West Michigan Tourist Association). Hugh J. Gray was appointed secretary/manager of WMTA upon its formation, and is honored with a stone cairn constructed of one stone from every county in Michigan to commemorate Gray as the “Dean of Michigan’s Tourist Activity.” This was the first grass roots tourist organization in the country, and was formed with the goal of promoting the attractions of West Michigan, and to encourage travelers to visit the region.

 

A hundred years later, the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) continues to work towards that same goal with a special tribute from Michigan’s Governor on the occasion of WMTA’s anniversary. With more than 850 member properties throughout the area, WMTA has come to be recognized as the leading source of travel information for the West Michigan area. WMTA makes a wide variety of travel information available free of charge, including an annual West Michigan Travel Guide, a Lake Michigan Lighthouse Map, a monthly e-newsletter, and more.

 

WMTA is celebrating their centennial throughout 2017 with additional travel promotions and ways for the public to become involved:

 

  • Request a free copy of the West Michigan Travel Guide by mail (or view it online) to travel through the past 100 years in West Michigan, as well as the best of present day.
  • Follow along on the West Michigan social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram) for Throwback Thursday (#TBT) posts each week to explore visuals from the last 100 years in West Michigan.
  • Participate in the West Michigan 100th Anniversary Scavenger Hunt for a chance to win a copy of WMTA’s commemorative photo book and the grand prize from Boyne Mountain Resort.

 

Since 1917, the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) has worked to market the very best of West Michigan to travelers from around the world. As WMTA celebrates 100 years in 2017, that commitment continues.

 

WMTA’s membership base consists of more than 800 attractions, lodging, events, and activities all across the west side of Michigan, from the Indiana border all the way into the Upper Peninsula. Over the past century, Michigan’s tourism industry has become second to only manufacturing in Michigan, making WMTA a vital resource for the area’s tourist destinations.

 

Today, WMTA continues its mission as a self-sustaining, membership-funded non-profit. For more information, please visit WMTA.org.

 

Tons of fun for kids in West Michigan!

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , , , , , , ,
Treetop Adventure Park (photo from Facebook)

By Jeremy Witt, West Michigan Tourist Association

 

Where to take that bundle of energy you call a child? There are many options right here in West Michigan.

 

The Grand Rapids Treetop Adventure Park has six (soon to be seven) courses that are broken into four different skill levels. These range from very easy to expert. Each course takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete, but you have three hours to do as much or as little as you please. They have activities for kids of all ages with a mini zipline course designed for kids ages 4 to 6, and a main deck which starts with kids that are 7 years old. You may have a hard time getting your kids to come back to the car when you visit this outdoor adventure park.

 

The Tri-Cities Historical Museum in Grand Haven is the perfect place for young learners who don’t want to be limited to just reading. Instead, step in, see, touch, and even smell all things history. Each exhibit is housed in a structure that is appropriate for the era. For example, the Woodland Era of Native American history is found inside an authentic birch bark wigwam. While The Tri-Cities Historical Museum is open to all ages, parents and guardians typically find 1st grade and above to be the most invested in the exhibits, though highly engaged parents will find something teachable in each exhibit.

 

Critter Barn (photo from Facebook)

A visit to Catch Air in Grand Rapids is sure to have your kids jumping for joy. Their indoor adventure park has inflatable slides, jungle gym, bounce castle, and more. Catch Air is also the perfect place for a birthday party. Throw the most memorable and enjoyable party ever without lifting a finger. Whether you’re stopping by for an afternoon of fun, or celebrating a birthday, Catch Air is always a hopping place to be.

 

The Critter Barn in Zeeland is a nonprofit educational farm spanning three acres. Their curriculum focuses on promoting an understanding of agriculture, food sources, animal care, animal science, volunteer initiatives, and the farmer’s role in feeding the world. They have an authentic learning environment with many friendly animals. Working on a farm, even visiting a farm, develops character and deepens an appreciation for the world around us.

 

Windmill Island Gardens (photo from Facebook)

A palette of colors await you as you wind along the entrance to Holland’s treasured Windmill Island Gardens. Tour five stories of the DeZwaan windmill, the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the United States. From the top, you can survey 36 acres of manicured gardens, dikes, and canals. Complete your immersive Dutch experience with their costumed guides, hand-painted Dutch carousel and children’s gardens, gift shops, and more. Mark your calendars for Opening Day on Saturday, April 15th, 2017!

Get your tickets now to celebrate 100 years of tourism in West Michigan on Jan. 7

Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, , ,

wmta-logo-headerCelebrate 100 years of tourism in West Michigan with the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA), as WMTA returns to the era of the roaring ’20s at their 100th Anniversary Gala on Jan. 7th, 2017 at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids.

 

WMTA has played an essential and pioneering role in the promotion of tourism in Michigan over the years, paving the way for statewide campaigns such as “Pure Michigan,” as well as helping spread the word for local tourism chambers and visitors bureaus. WMTA today serves over 800 tourism-related businesses throughout West Michigan by promoting their offerings and helping attract travelers to spend their vacations in West Michigan.

 

It all began on May 7, 1917, when a meeting was called in the Pantlind Ballroom at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel with 75 delegates from every county in West Michigan attending to create the Michigan Tourist and Resort Association (MTRA). Supported by the memberships of resorts, hotels, retailers, chambers, and more, the MTRA was the first grass-roots tourist organization in the country. In 1934, MTRA rebranded itself as the West Michigan Tourist and Resort Association (WMTRA), and finally became the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) in 1961.

 

Now, 100 years and countless travelers later, WMTA is returning to the historic Pantlind Ballroom at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Join WMTA as they celebrate the past, commemorate those who paved the way for Michigan’s current thriving tourism economy, and look forward to many more years of promoting the best of West Michigan.

 

Period dress is welcomed and encouraged. WMTA is embracing the era of the roaring ‘20s, which was working its way into full swing when the organization was formed in 1917.

 

The Gala will begin with a cocktail reception at 6:30 pm, followed by dinner, a presentation on the history of WMTA and local tourism, live music and dancing.

 

Tickets are limited and are currently available to the public. They can be purchased for $100 each from WMTA.org/100thGala.

 

A special $100 room rate is available at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel for any attendees wishing to stay the night. Details may be found at the above URL.

 

 

Brewery Vivant’s 6th Annual Wood-Aged Beer Festival celebrates art of craft brewing

3-bottom, Beer, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Food, Upcoming Events, , , , ,
brewery vivant
Photo courtesy of Brewery Vivant
Brewery Vivant presents its 6th annual Wood-Aged Beer Festival (WABF) on Saturday, September 17th, 2016. Showcasing over 20 wood and wild beers, Brewery Vivant will take over its parking lot once again with tents, taps and two sessions. Beers range from light to dark, sweet to sour, and rest in wood from bourbon barrels, wine barrels, scotch barrels, cognac foeders and more.
This year’s annual autumn event not only celebrates the art of wood-aging beer but also serves to celebrate this past summer’s launch of the brewery’s Plein de Vie series.
 brewery vivant (2)

“It’s been so exciting to bring some of these wood-aged beers out into the Michigan and Chicagoland markets,” said Kate Avery, Abbess of Beer and Director of Sales & Marketing. “This festival is like a capstone to our launch and also it serves as a testing ground for what is to come in the series. Get your first sips here. Maybe get your only sips here!”

Several Plein de Vie beers got their start at WABFs of yore: Angelina, Habanango and most recently, Paris.

Brewery Vivant’s farmhouse tradition lends itself to exploring the complexities wood-aging beer. Since its very first year of production, the brewery siphoned off a few gallons here and there from batches of beer to experiment with wood aging. As the brewery grew in volume, so did the barrel program. Now in its sixth year, three 40-barrel wooden foeders, 240+ barrels, and three stainless wild fermentation tanks, the creativity brewing for this festival is boundless.

“Thinking up flavor profiles and the guiding the recipe from beer to barrel is part of the fun,” says Master of Wood, Brian Kuszynski, “Of course, drinking these wood-aged beers is the other part of the fun.”

brewery vivant funOf all the beer festivals in Michigan, WABF resonates with taste trippers, explorers and fans of community building. Recently voted “3rd Best Beer Festival” in West Michigan in a reader’s choice poll, Wood-Aged Beer Festival not only offers the unique beer tasting experience but also festival foods from the acclaimed Brewery Vivant kitchen.

The brewery will offer two identical sessions: Afternoon 12pm-3pm and Evening 5pm-8pm. Tickets are $35 and include 10 tasting tokens (good for food as well) and a collector’s tasting glass. Space is limited due to physical parking lot size and small-batch, rareness of beer. Get tickets at www.breweryvivant.com or WABF16.BrownPaperTickets.com.

Brewery Vivant is located in the East Hills neighborhood of Grand Rapids, in a renovated funeral chapel built in the early 1900s. Its staff of around 60 employees specialize in Belgian/French-inspired beers and fare in a unique setting.

Husband and wife partners Jason and Kris Spaulding opened the doors for business in December of 2010. Vivant beers are distributed throughout Michigan and the greater Chicago area. It’s the first commercial brewery in the nation to receive Silver LEED Certification from the USGBC. Additionally they are 100% renewable powered, a silver-level Bicycle Friendly Business, and are a certified B Corporation.

Beer the Change®!

West Michigan offers endless things to do with Dad on Father’s Day

3-bottom, Beer, Citizen Journalism, Entertainment, Holidays, Recreation, Senior Living, Sports, Travel, Upcoming Events, , , ,
shanty creek resorts
Shanty Creek Resorts

Father’s Day is June 19th — this Sunday! — and the West Michigan Tourist Association has some excellent suggestions for making it the perfect day for any father in your life. Enjoy great meals, fun events, and give gifts DADicated to that special man. Show your appreciation for your dad 365 days a year, but make sure to celebrate in style on June 19th with Father’s Day in West Michigan.

 

Golf
Here’s just one idea: Take dad for a round of golf at one of the four championship courses at Shanty Creek Resorts. The tight fairways, formidable doglegs, and elevation changes will challenge any golfer. Or if you’re looking for a new unique way to experience golf, why not try FootGolf at Shanty Creek’s Summit Golf Course. This hybrid between soccer and golf has you trying to kick a soccer ball into a 21-inch diameter cup.

 

The Heatherwoods Course at the Charlevoix Country Club is another ideal place for golfing with dad. Their Father’s Day special includes $29 for 18 holes and $15 for 8 holes. Their Golf & Dine special is perfect for making this an all inclusive day of golf. The dining package is valid at both Sports Grill and the Triple C Clubhouse Dining Room. Book your tee times online at their website.

 

coldwater country locomotives
Coldwater Country Locomotive

Family Fun

Enjoy a trip through the countryside on the historic Little River Railroad steam locomotives in Coldwater Country. Dads ride free with purchase of a regular ticket. The round trip train ride lasts an hour and forty five minutes and takes you from Coldwater to Quincy where you’re given the opportunity to see the locomotive switch around for your return trip. For times and reservations, visit their website.

 

South Haven’s Harborfest falls on Father’s Day weekend. Bring the whole family to enjoy live music by the river, dragon boat races, a classic boat show, and more. If you want to give the gift of relaxation, the beaches of South Haven offer a great “no agenda” day to enjoy with dad.

 

harborfest
Harborfest

The Port City Princess in Muskegon will have a special Father’s Day cruise to celebrate dads all over the world. Enjoy a champagne brunch with local microbrew beers and a live bluegrass band. You’ll also be able to watch the powerboat races that are going on all weekend.

 

St. Ignace is perfect for planning a trip for Father’s Day. Take a day trip to Mackinac Island and enjoy the summer weather. Then spend the day in St. Ignace, enjoying the sights and sounds of the city. Plan a golf or fishing trip during your stay.

 

GaylordLockheed_C-130_Hercules-1024x731 offers family fun year-round, and Father’s Day is no exception. Head to Gaylord to experience the Air Show with jaw-dropping aerobatic aerial performances, jets and vintage war birds performing and on display.

 

The 38th Annual White Lake Area Father’s Day Arts & Crafts Festival will be June 18th and 19th at Goodrich Park in Whitehall. The family favorite festival features 75 talented artists, crafters, food vendors, live entertainment, and children’s activities.

 

great-turtle-kayak-tours-Hit the waters of Mackinac Island with dad at Great Turtle Kayak Tours. Choose between kayaking or standup paddle boarding and explore the waters together. This is a fun and outdoor family activity that everybody can participate in. For more information and reservation options, visit their website.

 

The Historic Charlton Park hosts their 35th Annual Father’s Day Car Show on Sunday, June 19th. Admire vintage cars and the craftsmanship of yesteryear throughout the park’s 310 acres. You know you’re getting the best of the best when every car is from 1990 or earlier and must be able to drive itself to the park.

 

hackley and humeThe Muskegon CVB also wants you to celebrate Father’s Day with them. On June 19th, dads enjoy a free tour of the Hackley & Hume Historic Site. Explore the grounds and see the beauty that went into this historic location. If powerboats are more your speed, then check out the Chase Charity Powerboat Event from June 17th to the 19th at the Muskegon Yacht Club. You can either race or watch the boats while enjoying refreshments at the club.

 

Charlevoix is ready to help you create special moments with dad for Father’s Day. Take a hiking trip through their great trail system or golf on one of their five area courses. Kayak or boat on the lakes and rivers where you can go fishing. There is also skydiving, trail biking, and more adventures to be discovered and had.

 

This photo was taken during a calm summer day from Lake Michigan Beach. For such a plain looking lighthouse, it is surprisingly very photogenic, thanks to the sleek profile of the south pier and beautiful background sunsets.
Charlevoix Lighthouse

Lemon Creek Winery’s 32nd Annual Father’s Day Festival features live music, a classic Corvette car show, kids’ games, hayrides and more. Of course, food and wine will play a big part in the celebration. The entry fee is $12 for adults 21 and older and includes free parking, admission to the event, a souvenir wine glass, and three free wine tastings. Those under 21 get in free when accompanied by a family member over 21.

 

Beer, Dine, & Wine

Head out to the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula this Father’s Day to try some award-winning wines from nine distinct wineries along the peninsula. Each of the nine wineries has their own distinct tasting rooms, patios, and beautiful decks. Stop by all of them and find which one you like the best.

 

Journeyman Distillery will be hosting a Father’s Day brunch and Three Oaks Single Malt release on June 19th from 10am to 10pm. There will be both a special steak sandwich that has shaved prime rib and a full brunch menu to choose your meal. The whiskey won’t last long on the shelves, so make sure to check out this special release while you’re at it. For more information on the event and the Three Oaks Single Malt, visit their website.

 

lemon creek winery

Food is on the mind of the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance for Father’s Day weekend. Their farmers market will be open June 18th and is great to get some fresh produce for cooking your Father’s Day feast. If dining out is more your style, Schuler’s Restaurant will have their Father’s Day Brunch on June 19th from 9:30am to 2pm. The dinner menu begins at 1pm if you would rather have an evening meal together.

 

Arcadia Brewing Company in Kalamazoo celebrates Father’s Day the best way they know how: delicious beer and meat-centric food dishes. All Father’s Day long, dads can enjoy $5 off growler fills of any draft beer. At 5pm, live entertainment will be provided by Roma Ransom who traveled all the way from Colorado to perform.

 

Gifts

Give dad a membership to Club Mich for Father’s Day. A membership to the Michigan Breweries T-Shirt Club is a perfect gift for dads who love craft beer. As a member, he’ll receive a shirt every month featuring a different Michigan brewery. You can buy it as a monthly plan or purchase the plan in various increments.

 

club michThe Art Gallery of Algoma will be having a Father’s Day Gallery Shop Sale from June 14th to June 18th. Get dad the perfect gift or get him an AGA Membership which helps support the gallery and its efforts. Or you could visit the gallery and take a tour with your loved ones. Check out the Art Gallery of Algoma when you are out shopping and planning for Father’s Day.

 

A Little Bit of Everything

Treat dad to the perfect day at Crystal Mountain. If he loves golf, send him to the Callaway Club Fitting from 10am to 3pm on June 18th for a 15-minute fitting. Then, on June 19th, buckets of driving range balls are buy one, get one free! Plus you can golf at Mountain Ridge for $45 and Betsie Valley for $35. If golf isn’t his thing, on Father’s Day, dads get free entrance into the pool, a free Alpine Slide Pass, or free bike rental with purchase of a child pass or rental.

 

Crystal_mnt_resort

Pierce Cedar Creek has a great Father’s Day dinner, program, and artist’s reception on June 19th. Enjoy dinner at 5pm expertly prepared by Chef Paul. After dinner, artist Laura Christensen will present her photography titled “The Wildlife and Waters of Barry County.” Enjoy a reception and an optional hike out to Cedar Creek afterward for an evening view of the Institute’s wetlands. There is a fee for dinner, but the program, reception, and hike are free and do not require attendance at dinner to be enjoyed.

 

No matter what you end up doing, you’re sure to have tons of fun!

Enjoying Adventures Inside the Snowglobe of West Michigan

Local Business, Recreation, Weather, , , , ,
There are only four public luge tracks in the country, one of them is right here in West Michigan!
There are only four public luge tracks in the country, one of them is right here in West Michigan!

Even though some of us may not be big fans of the cold weather, winter plays host to some of West Michigan’s most fun activities. Coats and boots may be necessary, so pack accordingly! Whether you enjoy speeding down the slopes or taking your time to enjoy the snow covered outdoors, West Michigan will keep you more than entertained during these winter months.

 

The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex

 

For some unique winter fun, check out the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex, located in Muskegon State Park. They have one of the only four publicly accessible luge tracks in the country! They also have snowboarding, skiing, and sledding on their five miles of groomed track. If you’re not interested in hitting the slopes, there is an ice rink and tracks for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Equipment is available for rent.

Rosa Parks Circle

 

JW Marriott

 

The JW Marriott is helping you embrace and enjoy winter with the JW on Ice package! This package includes passes for ice skating at nearby Rosa Parks Circle, a holiday gift welcome amenity, and a complimentary breakfast from their delicious farm-to-table restaurant, six.one.six, to help you warm up.

 

Van Andel Arena & DeVos Place

 

Van Andel Arena will be home to the WCHA Final Five hockey championship on March 18. The men’s Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) is college hockey’s most historic, tradition-rich and successful conference and their premier conference tournament is coming to Grand Rapids. This two day event pits some the best college hockey teams in the region against each other. Visit the website for more ticket and group sale information.WCHA final five

Crystal Mountain

 

January is National Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month and Crystal Mountain has you covered with their professional instructors and special lift tickets offer all of January. For January only, Crystal Mountain is bringing you an amazing deal with a ski and snowboard rental and 1-hour beginner group lesson for only $20. Advanced reservations requested.

 

Don’t need a lesson? Then bring a friend and enjoy the day with a two for one deal on lift tickets! Offer valid Mondays through Thursdays for the month of January. Whether you’re a newbie looking to learn how to shred the slopes or an experienced rider, Crystal Mountain is the place to be.

Courtesy of @ShantyCreekResorts
Courtesy of @ShantyCreekResorts (instagram)

 

Shanty Creek Resorts

 

Shanty Creek, rated the “Midwest’s Best Downhill Terrain” by OnTheSnow.com, transforms themselves every year into a winter wonderland. There is something for every skill level from beginners to veterans who are always looking for a challenge. If the skiing and snowboarding doesn’t interest you, check out their tubing park, snowshoe trails, and cross-country trails. If you are interested in some snowy fun, Shanty Creek’s winter wonderland is calling to you.

 

Here in West Michigan we are lucky enough to experience all four seasons. This winter, get out and about and soak up the winter in a new way. The cold and snow isn’t going anywhere, might as well enjoy it while it’s here!

Farm-to-Table Dining in West Michigan

Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Food, , , , , , , , ,
Farm To Table
From the farm straight to your table

Which sounds better: Freshly made truffle fries from local potatoes or slightly-soggy fries that have been sitting out too long after being pulled out of the freezer at the local fast food joint?

Maybe that’s an extreme comparison, but it showcases the heart of the farm-to-table movement, which is well respected at dining locations throughout West Michigan.

Farm-to-Table means your food has traveled from a local source, maybe even as nearby as the garden out back (instead of being frozen or canned and transported hundreds of miles), and was freshly prepared, which means no thawing in the microwave or sitting under heat lamps for days. Farm-to-Table dining promises you a delicious and healthy meal that is truly of West Michigan.

Read on for some of our favorite Farm-to-Table dining options in West Michigan, and our apologies in advance if this causes your stomach to start rumbling.

GroveGrove

Grove restaurant, located in Grand Rapids, is a tribute to the bounty of the earth’s harvest and how Grove brings that to the table with impeccable service, natural ingredients and innovative cuisine. Their seasonal, frequently changing selections hint at the classics with natural sauces and a slant toward sustainable seafood. They responsibly source as many ingredients as possible from local, family and sustainable farms and prepare each dish to demonstrate their respect for how these farmers raise or grow their products.

Grove carefully pairs their daily, innovative menus with the best modern wines. Their beverage menu also includes eclectic and top-shelf liquors, their own housemade infused spirits, craft beers, pour-over coffee and espresso. They’re located in the heart of East Hills at 919 Cherry Street.

TERRA GR 2Terra

Inspired, handcrafted foods that nurture both body and community. At Terra in Grand Rapids, they follow their passions – and the seasons – for only the freshest, health-filled ingredients from the region’s most dedicated growers. They pride themselves on distinctive fare, expertly crafted with passion, intellect and culinary skill. You’ll enjoy handcrafted meals that honor the purest ingredients from the finest regional farms and fields. Terra’s focus on seasonal offerings means they only use fresh, honest ingredients bursting with the flavors of each season. Not only will you find delicious dining at Terra, but also a community dedicated to the promotion and rewards of a health-conscious lifestyle.

twisted roosterTwisted Rooster

Satisfyingly savory and always fresh, using Michigan made products with a twist—that’s what you can expect when dining at the Twisted Rooster in Grand Rapids. Twisted Rooster’s Executive Chef and his culinary team work with local vendors and suppliers to provide guests with a decidedly tasty twist on classic American fare. Twisted Rooster’s mantra is to provide each guest with “Simply Impeccable Food & Drinks with Uncommon Hospitality.” Their locally sourced, scratch made menu is full of local flavor and includes vendors such as Byron Center Meats, R.W. Bakers, Faygo and Founders Brewing Company. Ogren said their menu is meant to emphasize their twisted “Commit to the Mitt” motto.

The Green WellThe Green Well

At The Green Well they serve honest fayre with local flair in a neighborhood setting that keeps customers coming back. Their innovative gastro pub is green beyond its name: Their LEED® certified building is environmentally safe, ultra efficient and leaves behind the smallest possible carbon footprint. “Gastro pub” is British for a public house that specializes in high-quality food served in a relaxed atmosphere. The Green Well’s creative menu features a global range of eclectic flavors prepared with ingredients from local farmers. Over 20 rotating taps focus on Michigan brews, as well as a vast selection of bottles, ranging from local and American craft to traditional European styles. The wine list features creative flights that encourage multiple wine flavors paired with food. Classic cocktails are also available. Their greenness also spills over to their guests who benefit from affordable prices and outstanding service by a fun, welcoming staff. Located at 924 Cherry Street in East Hills, Grand Rapids.

Bistro Bella VitaBistro Bella Vita

At Bistro Bella Vita, they go above and beyond to deliver the ultimate dining experience with top-notch, personable service, whether it’s a simple pizza and beer with friends, or an elegant chef’s table meal perfectly paired with appropriate wines. Their vision is to be West Michigan’s most respected restaurant destination. Guests enjoy Bistro Bella Vita’s unique downtown atmosphere and their creative cuisine made exclusively from fresh, natural, ingredients purchased daily from local farmers in season. The culinary team creates authentic, scratch-made recipes that blend the delicious flavors of the Mediterranean countryside with a perfectly paired beverage offering served by a devoted staff whose passion is to ensure your complete satisfaction. They’re located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids, just west of the Van Andel Arena on Grandville and Weston.

San ChezSan Chez Bistro

Stop by San Chez Bistro for the most unique dining and entertainment venue in Grand Rapids. San Chez Bistro offers a blend of authentic European and Mediterranean cuisine in a fun, laid-back, and artful atmosphere. Take a break from fast food with breakfast and lunch by San Chez Café, made with the finest local ingredients, and prepared to order fresh seven days a week. Enjoy omelets, scrambles, pastries, bagels, yogurt, fresh fruit, or the best sandwiches and soups in town. Appreciate gourmet fair-trade coffee and whole leaf organic tea while you linger with free Wi-Fi, or hold a breakfast meeting in our comfy café.

Six.One.SixSix.One.Six

The JW Marriott Grand Rapids‘ signature restaurant, six.one.six, offers the breathtaking blend of sophisticated urban ambience, palate-pleasing cuisine, and the finest wines and perfectly poured cocktails. But more than just a “pretty face,” six.one.six. takes its cuisine seriously. Dedicated to the concept of buying local, the chef’s pantry is bursting with locally grown ingredients, some of which are picked just a few feet away at the JW Chef’s Garden. The six.one.six. kitchen also participates in Sort, a recycling and composting program coordinated with Zeeland-headquartered Spurt Industries, which helps turn food scraps into top-quality soil for area parks. You’ll find dishes sourced from New Holland Brewery, Black Star Farms, Founders Brewery, and many more when you dine at six.one.six.

GR's Downtown Market is open all year.

Downtown Market

Downtown Market Grand Rapids offers farm to table dining, and everything in between. Visit in the spring and summer for their outdoor farmers market, where the best of everything fresh and local will be on display for purchase. The indoor Market Hall is open year-round, and offers everything from local produce, fish, meats, and cheese to restaurants serving tacos & thai food sourced from local ingredients. Downtown Market offers regular cooking classes & demonstrations to help you bring that fresh and local taste right into your own kitchen.

Reserve Wine & Food

Reserve Wine and FoodMichigan’s award-winning Reserve Wine & Food in downtown Grand Rapids is the epitome of a farm-to-table experience, in a classy, urban setting just a short drive from the rural countryside which provides the bounty for the menu. Reserve fills its kitchen with foods raised by their friends—local farmers, growers and harvesters with a passion for fresh flavors. Chef Josh Adams cooked throughout his childhood with his mom and grandmother, who encouraged his creativity and curiosity. Applying progressive techniques to pristine ingredients, Adams seeks to preserve and accentuate the natural properties of the ingredients through precision cooking. “With the development of each dish, I take into consideration the aroma, taste, texture, temperature, color, shape and arrangement to bring about the best possible result for the customer,” he says. Opened since September, 2010 and celebrating its 5th year, Reserve Wine & Food has been recognized by Grand Rapids Magazine, OpenTable, Food & Wine Magazine, the James Beard Foundation and Wine Spectator. Located in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids at 201 Monroe Avenue NW, Reserve Wine & Food offers a world-class menu fully embracing the West Michigan farm-to-table philosophy in an elegant yet casual fine dining setting.

Pull Aside the Curtain for a Backstage Experience

Area Education, Beer, Citizen Journalism, Local Business, Local Entertainment, Local Faces, Local Food, , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Opening The CurtainWhenever you visit a place, you’re never seeing the full story. There’s always something going on behind an “employees only” door or a little secret that only the well-informed know. Luckily for you, some of the best places to visit in West Michigan have tours to show you everything you need to know. Ever want to see how Bell’s brews their beer? Or how Grimaldi’s chocolates turn out so delicious? Look no further than some of these behind the scenes tours!

South Region

Henderson Castle

The historic Henderson Castle was built in 1895 and is one of Kalamazoo’s most treasured landmarks. Today, they welcome visitors to come explore the castle in its entirety with their VIP Legacy Tour package. With this package, you can explore all floors of the castle from their basement kitchen to their rooftop deck and everything in between. Places that guests typically don’t see such as the vineyards and wine cave are also shown. If you want to get the most out of your trip to Henderson Castle, look no further than this extensive tour package!

Journeyman DistilleryJourneyman Distillery

Journeyman Distillery offers tours every day! The distillery is located in an 1800s factory building and has retained much of the original and historic architecture. Tours last approximately one hour and include the history of the distillery, a tour of the production facility, and an overview on how their spirits are produced. Of course, the tour concludes with a tasting of some of Journeyman’s finest spirits!

West Michigan Beer Tours

Why just tour one brewery when you can tour three? West Michigan Beer Tours offers variety of public tours with most including stops at three breweries to sample, tour, and meet the owners or brewers. Your tour director is knowledgeable in both the beer industry and the local area so you know that you’re getting a great tour. You’ll travel comfortably from brewery to brewery on their mini-coach bus. West Michigan Beer Tours is one of the best ways to see the behind of the scenes of local breweries!

Bells-Brewing-Logo1Bell’s Brewery

Bell’s Brewery was a significantly different kind of brewery 30 years ago. It had one employee, Larry Bell, who worked out of plastic garbage bags and a 15-gallon stock pot. Today, Bell’s employs more the 400 people over 22 states and has their original brewery still in Downtown Kalamazoo. They offer free tours there on Saturdays and Sundays for those looking to see what goes into making their beer. Their Comstock brewery offers self guided tours where the public is welcome to observe the large area at their own leisure.

St. Julian Winery

St. Julian Winery’s Paw Paw location offers free year-round tours! Tours run seven days a week and all ages are welcome. After your tour, don’t miss their standard tasting of six samples of your choice and a complimentary logo glass which is yours to take home. Choose from over 40 products including wines that are exclusive to their tasting rooms, their Grey Heron Vodka, and their A&G Brandy. If you want even more, their Enhanced Tasting & Tour is reservation only and more than just your average experience! This is an extended tour and includes your choices of cheese or chocolate pairs. Their wine educators offer an in-depth education on the winemaking process from bud-break to bottling!

Marshall Historical SocietyMarshall Historical Society

Don’t miss the longest running home tour in the Great Lakes area with Marshall Historical Society‘s Historic Home Tour! Private residences, commercial buildings, museums, and fairground buildings are given the tour treatment. The public is always invited to come see some of these amazing and unique places. Want to learn more about the architecture or the history behind of some of Marshall’s most famous buildings? Then take a day or two to explore and learn from one of the most trusted sources on Marshall’s past. Keep an eye out for 2016 dates!

Central Region

Grand Rapids Symphony

Have you ever wanted to see what goes into producing a symphony? The Grand Rapids Symphony offers both backstage tours as well as musician meet-and-greets to educate the public on their exciting work. With their new program, Backstage and Behind the Music, each session corresponds to one of the symphony’s concerts and gives guests the opportunity to see the entire process. For adults ages 21 to 35, there is the MySymphony360 program which includes discounted tickets, best available sating, exclusive backstage access, and musical meet-and-greets.

Long Road DistilleryLong Road Distillery

Long Road Distillery takes great pride in their signature whiskies, vodkas, and gins. To show how much work goes into these creations, they invite you to tour their distillery. Led by one of their distillers or owners, tours take visitors through the entire distilling process, its principles, and where the ingredients come from. Questions are encouraged so don’t hesitate to ask your knowledgeable tour guide. You might even get to sample a spirit or two when you’re done!

Chocolates by Grimaldi

The factory tour at Chocolates by Grimaldi is the perfect way to learn about the process of making chocolate. See everything from the pod, to the bean, to the chocolate that you can eat! Taste fresh samples right off the line and see the production area for yourself. Check out their 1950s enrober that is just like the one from I Love Lucy. Schedule your tour today to see how Grand Haven gets their unique chocolates!

North Region

Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel’s new stable is a great way to not only see the horses up close, but to also tour the island. Group carriage tours around Mackinac Island are perfect to learn about the area. These narrated tours start in downtown and stop at many points of interest along the way. The Grand Hotel’s concierge desk will help you personalize your route and even point out places on the island that are unseen by many. With an endless possibility of routes, adventure awaits you on Mackinac Island!

Chateau Grand TraverseChateau Grand Traverse

The tasting room at Chateau Grand Traverse invites you to check out their award-winning wines and enjoy their breathtaking views! Complimentary tours of the facilities are offered along with an overview of the history of the Northern Michigan wine industry. Your guide will teach you about the winemaking process from harvest to bottling. Don’t miss the chance to check out Chateau Grand Traverse’s wine making process and the amazing view that brought them there over 40 years ago.

Leelanau Adventures

Leelanau Adventures offers awesome guided tours and overnight stays at various locations. Have you ever wanted to experience Sleeping Bear Dunes or Manitou Island with a tour guide that will show you the best kept secrets? Look no further! You can choose between guided backpacking day trips or overnight stays with everything you need provided to you. Learn what it takes to survive in one of West Michigan’s most treasured locales. Trips run from June to September so check back next year to book your adventure!

Point Betsie LighthousePoint Betsie Lighthouse

Marking the southern entrance to the Manitou Passage, Point Betsie Lighthouse stands as one of Benzie County’s most famous landmarks. The lighthouse was built in 1857 and had significant restoration work done in 2006. Their tours give the public the chance to see the lighthouse up close and personal. You can even climb the tower! Tours run from May until October so make sure to check it out when they reopen it next year.

West Michigan’s Best Color Tours

Our Cities, Recreation, Travel, ,

Color ToursThe West Michigan Tourist Association compiled a list of the 26 best color tours in West Michigan. If you’re looking to get away and enjoy our beautiful State in its colorful state of mind, give these color tours your full attention!

Just how many ways are there to view this splendor of autumn’s pallet? West Michigan travelers have an abundance of ways to enjoy the show, either by car, train, boat, bicycle, hot air balloon rides, at festivals, hiking, on golf courses and luxury resorts, or historic highways. Many of these “old roads” cut through great forests of hardwoods and pines and make perfect color tours, and some are state-designated scenic routes. From 40 miles to 140 miles, there’s a day trip perfect for everyone. Read on to view a listing of 26 scenic driving routes and print detailed directions for each.

Color Tour New BuffaloColor Tour One: Directions Starting from New Buffalo

Red Arrow Hwy north to Bridgman. I-94 north to Benton Harbor, M-63 north to Coloma Rd, east to Watervliet. I-94 east to Paw Paw (Exit 60), M-40 south to M-216 east in Marcellus, US-131 south to Three Rivers. M-60 west to Cassopolis, M-62 north to Dowagiac. West on M-62, south on M-140 to Niles, M-60BR to US-12, west to New Buffalo.

Color Tour Two: Directions Starting from Centreville

Color Tour CentrevilleKlinger Lake Rd north (becomes Covered Bridge Rd) across Langley Covered Bridge. Covered Bridge Rd then becomes Silver St. North to M-60. East on M-60 through Mendon (becomes M-60/M-66) to Clarendon. South on 22 Mile Rd (becomes Clarendon Rd in Branch Co). Right on Jonesville Rd 1/2 mile, south on Quincy Ray Rd to California, then west on Southern Rd to Angola Rd. Turn left, then right to return to Southern. West through East Gilead to River Son Rd, right on Southern, right on Orland, then left to Southern. Left on Dutch School Rd, right at Round Lake Rd past Round Lake (becomes Fawn River Rd in St. Joseph Co). Left at second intersection to continue on Fawn River Rd. North on Klinger Lk Rd to return to Centreville.

Color Tour Three: Directions Starting from Jackson

Color Tour JacksonSouth on M-50, west on Meridian, south on Stonewall. South on Horton Rd, south on Jackson Rd to Liberty. West on Hanover Rd, north on Pulaski Rd to M-60 heading northeast. West on Michigan Ave, north on Parma, north on Country Farm Rd, north on Rogers Rd, east on Benn Rd. North on Stepladder Rd, north on Springport Rd through Minard Mill where it becomes Minard Rd. South on M-50, south on US-127, east on I-94. North on Route 106 to Munith. South on Coon Hill Rd, east on Waterloo Munith Rd through Waterloo Recreational Area in the State Park. South on Clear Lake Rd (turns into Francisco Rd south of I-94). West on Michigan Ave back to Jackson.

Color Tour LansingColor Tour Four: Directions Starting from Lansing

M-43 west through Grand Ledge, then south to M-89. East to Gull Lake Rd, north to C Ave. East to 40th St (becomes Kellogg Ave in Barry Co), north to Hickory Corners. East on CR-400 (Hickory Rd) to M-37, south to M-89 (W Michigan St), east to Raymond, north to Verona, east to McCallaster, north to ÒNÓ Dr to 16 Mile Rd (becomes 16-1/2 Mile Rd). South on Old US-27 to Marshall, east on Michigan Ave to Albion. North on M-99 through Springport (becomes M-50/M-99) to Lansing.

Color Tour Five: Directions Starting from South Haven

Color Tour South HavenPhoenix Rd (CR-388) east to 46th St. Turn south, then east to return to CR-388 in Bloomingdale. CR-655 south to CR-380 east, 38th St north, then CR-388 east through Kendall. North to 12th Ave (CR-388, becomes D Ave in Kalamazoo Co). D Ave east to US-131, south to M-43, west to South Haven.

Color Tour Six: Directions Starting from Allegan

Color Tour AlleganM-40/89 north to Monroe Rd (118th St), west to Allegan Dam Rd north (circles back east around Lake Allegan). Cross M-40/89 to head north on 36th St, east on Dumont Rd, then north on 122nd Ave. East on 127th Ave, east on 128th Ave through Hopkins to 12th St north. East across US-131 on 129th Ave (becomes CR-430 in Barry Co) around Gun Lake through Yankee Springs Recreation Area, then south on CR-611 to CR-428. West to CR-623, south to CR-426, west at Orangeville. South on Dennison Rd to 116th Ave (M-22), east across US-131 to Allegan.

Color Tour Seven: Directions Starting from Holland

Color Tour HollandBR-31 south to US-31. Take first exit (Saugatuck), then south on Blue Star Hwy (A-2) to 118th Ave. East to 62nd St, north to 122nd Ave. Wind east, then north to M-89 (124th Ave), east through Fennville to Old Allegan Rd north (parts are unpaved but maintained), east to 60th St north. East on 140th Ave, north on 66th St, west on Ottagan St to S Shore Dr, east to downtown Holland/US-31.

Color Tour Eight: Directions Starting from Grand Haven

Color Tour Grand HavenRobbins Rd east to Mercury Dr past Grand River bayous to Riverside Park (becomes Green St, then North Cedar Dr). South on 104th Ave, east on Osborn St (becomes Warner). South on 68th St, east on M-45. South onto 48th St, east on Fillmore (becomes Cottonwood Dr). In Jenison, left on Baldwin, left on Chicago Dr. In Grandville, left on Wilson to M-11/28th St, left onto M-11 northbound. Left on Fennesey St (becomes Luce St, then Linden Dr). Left on Leonard St through Spring Lake to Grand Haven.

Color Tour Grand RapidsColor Tour Nine: Directions Starting from Grand Rapids

North on East Beltline (M-44), turns into Northland Dr through Rockford to Cedar Springs. West on M-46, south on CR-B35 (Ravenna Rd) through Ravenna to Coopersville. Left on Randall Rd, right on 48th Ave. I-96 east back to Grand Rapids.

Color Tour Ten: Directions Starting from Ada

Color Tour AdaM-21 east, south on Ada Dr, east on Bronson to view Ada Covered Bridge. Left on Thornapple River Dr, right on Ada Dr to M-21 east. North on Hudson (becomes Lincoln Lake Ave). East on Fallasburg County Park Rd, follow signs to cross Fallasburg Covered Bridge. Right on McPherson (becomes Potters Rd), north on Whites Bridge Rd (becomes gravel) across Whites Covered Bridge. East on Belding Rd (also M-44), north on M-91, east on M-46. South on M-66 to Ionia, west on M-21 to Ada.

Color Tour Eleven: Directions Starting from Big Rapids

Color Tour Big RapidsNorthland Dr north through Paris to Reed City. East on M-10BR to M-10 east to Evart. South on Main (becomes 85th Ave then curves to become 80th Ave) to Hill Corner. East on 20 Mile Rd, south on M-66, east on Taft Rd (becomes Airline Rd in Isabella Co). South on Coldwater Rd, east on Weidman, south on old US-27 (Mission Rd) to Mt. Pleasant. West on M-20 (High St then Remus Rd). South on Winn Rd, west on Blanchard Rd (becomes Jackson Rd in Mecosta Co). North on M-66 to Remus, west on M-20 (9 Mile Rd), south on 90th Ave, west on Buchanan Rd through Canadian Lakes. South on 130th Ave, west on 5 Mile Rd (CR-548). North on Northland Drive through Stanwood and back to Big Rapids.

Color Tour Twelve: Directions Starting from Fremont

Color Tour FremontM-82 west to M-120 north through Hesperia, east on M-20 to Dickinson Ave. North to 11 Mile Rd, east to Woodland Park, north on Bingham Ave to Bitely. West on Cleveland (13 Mile Rd), north on Osborn Ave, east on Coolidge Dr, north on Star Lake Tower Rd, west on Star Lake Dr (becomes Evergreen) around Big Star Lake. East on Carrs Rd (56th St) to Baldwin. South on M-37 (Woodbridge Dr) to White Cloud. East on Base Line Rd, south on Elm Ave. East on 36th St past the Hardy Dam, west on Hardy Croton Dr (becomes Croton Dr) to Newaygo. Left on Mason Dr (M-37), east on M-82. South on Cypress Ave to Ensley Center. West on 120th St to Ashland Center. North on Wisner Ave, west on 112th St to Bridgeton (becomes Warner Ave, then M-82) to Fremont.

Color Tour Thirteen: Directions Starting from Muskegon

Color Tour MuskegonUS-31 north to westbound Whitehall-Colby St exit (US-31BR). Left on Mears, left on Main, right on Benston, right on Durham, right on Lakewood Rd. Left on Weber, right on Michillinda. Left on Nestrom, right on Duck Lake Rd, then left on Scenic Dr along Lake Michigan to Muskegon State Park. Left on Memorial Dr to Whitehall Rd/US-31BR (Seaway Dr). South to Laketon Ave (becomes Lakeshore Dr after curve) to Pere Marquette Park. Follow shoreline. Right on Beach St, left on Sherman Blvd, right on Lincoln, right on McCracken, left on Seminole. Right on Lake Harbor Rd (becomes Pontaluna Rd) to US-31 north to Muskegon.

Color Tour Fourteen: Directions Starting from Montague

Color Tour MontagueNorth on US-31BR, north on Whitehall Rd through Rothbury. East on Cleveland Rd, north on 90th Ave, west on Arthur Rd, north on Oceana Dr through New Era, Shelby and Hart. West on Monroe Rd (becomes US-31BR) to Long Bridge Rd along Pentwater Lake. South on Ridge Ave (becomes Hazel Rd, then Silver Lake Rd at Silver Lake). South on 18th Ave, west on Buchanan, south on 16th Ave (becomes Scenic Dr, then Webster Rd). South on 48th Ave (becomes Lehman Rd in Muskegon County), east on Meinert Park Rd, south on Chase Rd, west on Hancock Rd and south on Old Channel Trail. East on Prospect Rd and follow the shoreline back to Montague.

Color Tour Fifteen: Directions Starting from Ludington

Color Tour LudingtonUS-10 west, north on Lakeshore Drive to Hamlin Lake. East on Dewey Rd, north on Jebavy then right immediately on Angling Rd. East on Fountain Rd to Fountain. South on Reek Rd, east on Sugar Grove Rd, south on Benson Rd to Walhalla. East on M-10, then first right south onto Wallhalla Rd. West on Hawley Rd, south on Scottville Rd, west on Marrison Rd, south on Stiles to Bucks Corner. West on Washington Rd to West Oceana Dr, north on Lakeshore Dr past Bass Lake to Buttersville Park and Pere Marquette Memorial. Go back south on Lakeshore Dr, east on Iris Rd to US-31 north. Exit west on M-10 back to Ludington.

Color Tour ClareColor Tour Sixteen: Directions Starting from Clare

US-10BR northwest through Farwell. Northwest on M-115, east on M-61 to Harrison, south on Old US-27BR to Clare.

Color Tour Seventeen: Directions Starting from Cadillac

Color Tour CadillacM-55 east to M-66 north through Lake City. West on M-42 through Manton to US-131 south. West on Boon Rd to Harrietta, south on 11-1/4 Rd. West on M-55, south on 7-1/2 Rd (becomes 48th Rd). South on 11-1/4 Rd to State Rd into Lake Co. East on Five Mile Rd, north on Skookum, east to Eight Mile (becomes 20 Mile Rd in Osceola Co), east to US-131, north to Cadillac.

Color Tour Eighteen: Directions Starting from Manistee

Color Tour ManisteeUS-31 north to M-110 (Lakeshore Rd) to Portage Lake. East on Crescent Beach Rd, north on M-22 through Onekama. West on Potter Rd through Pierport, west on 13 Mile Rd to Lake Michigan. Backtrack 200 feet east. North on Lakeview Rd, east on Shaef Rd, north on M-22 through Arcadia. (Scenic Hwy), east on Grace Rd. South on M-31, south on M-115 past Thompsonville. South on Yates Rd, west on Nine Mile Rd, south on Highbridge Rd. West on M-55 (Caberfae Hwy), south on US-31 back to Manistee.

Color Tour FrankfortColor Tour Nineteen: Directions Starting from Frankfort

East on M-115 to Benzonia, northeast on US-31 through Interlochen. North on M-37/US-31 to Traverse City. To tour Old Mission Point, follow M-37 north. Backtrack to Traverse CIty via US-31 west. M-22 north through Suttons Bay to Northport. South on M-22 through Leland to Glen Arbor. South on M-109 through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. South on M-22 to Empire and back to Frankfort.

Color Tour GraylingColor Tour Twenty: Directions Starting from Grayling

I-75 north to M-93 (exit 259) north past Hartwick Pines State Park. East on CR-612 to Lovells, south on CR-F97, south on M-18 through Roscommon. West on M-55 to Houghton Lake. North on Old US-27 back to Grayling.

Color Tour Twenty-One: Directions Starting from Kalkaska

Color Tour KalkaskaNorth on US-131/M-66 to Mancelona. South on CR-571 (Tillie Rd in Antrim Co, Darragh Rd in Kalkaska Co) to Darragh. East on CR-612 (Manistee Lk Rd) around Manistee Lake to Frederick. South on Old US-27 to Grayling. West on M-72, north on US-131 back to Kalkaska.

Color Tour Twenty-Two: Directions Starting from Elk Rapids

Color Tour Elk RapidsNorth on US-31 to Eastport. East on M-88 toward Central Lake. North on CR-65, east on Mohrmann Bridge Rd, south on Rushton Rd (becomes Intermediate Lake Rd), south on Derenzy Rd to CR-620 through Bellaire. South on East Torch Lk Dr (CR-593) through Alden (becomes Crystal Beach Rd) and north to Kewadin (becomes Cherry Ave) then south again (becomes Cairn Hwy) back to Elk Rapids.

Color Tour GaylordColor Tour Twenty-Three: Directions Starting from Gaylord

West on M-32 to East Jordan. West on Ellsworth Rd (CR-626) to Ellsworth. West on Atwood Rd (CR-48) to Atwood. North on US-31 through Charlevoix, Bay Harbor & Petoskey on to Alanson. East on M-68 to Indian River. South on I-75 back to Gaylord.

Color Tour Twenty-Four: Directions Starting from Petoskey

Color Tour PetoskyUS-31 north to M-119, north through Harbor Springs to Cross Village. Left on Lake Shore Dr to Lakeview Rd (becomes Gill Rd at Sturgeon Bay). Left on Cecil Bay Rd, right on Wilderness Park Dr north to Mackinaw City. Pass under I-75 at the base of Mackinac Bridge. South on US-23 (Cheboygan Co. Scenic Route) through Cheboygan. South on M-27 through Indian River. East on M-68 to US-31 south to Petoskey.

Color Tour Twenty-Five: Directions Starting from Mackinac Island Ferry Docks

Color Tour Mackinac IslandLeft on Market St to Cadotte Ave, right to Huron Rd behind Ft. Mackinac to Arch Rock. Left on Rifle Range Rd, right on Sugar Loaf Rd, back to Rifle Range. Right to Garrison Rd past Skull Cave, left on Annex Rd to Cadotte, right to Market, left to docks.

Color Tour Twenty-Six: Directions Starting from Beaver Island Ferry Docks

Color Tour Beaver IslandStarting at the ferry dock in “downtown” St. James, turn right at the Ace Hardware. Turn left at the top of the hill onto The Kings Highway heading south out of “town”. Turn left on McCauley’s Road. Turn right on East Side Drive. At the south end of the island it becomes West Side. Don’t forget to stop and visit the Lighthouse just before Iron Ore Bay. Cross the 4-way intersection onto Paid Een Ogs Road. Turn left onto The Kings Hwy back to “town.”

Red Barns Spectacular is the “Granddaddy”

Upcoming Events, ,

Gilmore Car MuseumThe Red Barns Spectacular, the area’s oldest and largest antique, classic, and special interest car show and swap meet, takes place at the Gilmore Car Museum on Saturday, August 1st. The event will feature vehicles of all eras, from 1990 and earlier.

Gilmore Car Museum 2Celebrating its 35th year, the Red Barnes Spectacular has been sponsored since 1980 by the Kalamazoo Antique Auto Restorers Club (KAARC) and the Gilmore Car Museum.

“This is the event that folks wait all summer for,” said KAARC show chairperson Jim Holland, “the name says it all, it really is spectacular!”

At last year’s event, over 1,200 collector cars, and hundreds of swap meet vendors, descended on the Gilmore Car Museum for what has been dubbed the “Granddaddy” of all area car shows.

There’s something for every level of automotive enthusiast at the Red Barnes Spectacular! From the vast automotive parts swap meet, to the huge assortment of antiques and crafts, and the extreme variety of collector cars for sale, it is a car lovers dream. By the end of the event, nearly 100 trophies will be awarded to show vehicles.

Whether you’re interested in the antiques, classics, muscle cars of the 1960s, or prefer trucks, customs, street rods, vintage boats or campers, this event will not disappoint!

Gilmore Car Museum 3The Gilmore Car Museum’s exhibits will also be open at no extra charge during the Red Barnes Spectacular. Showcased are the Museum’s extraordinary collections of over 350 historic vehicles, including the all-new special exhibition: “Mid Century Performance,” featuring iconic cars from the 1960s and 70s. Visitors are also treated to an expanded 1950s and 60s gallery, as well as “American Legends: Hot Rods & Customs,” featuring the Little Deuce Coupe of Beach Boys Fame.

The Gilmore Car Museum’s 90-acre historic campus, located just 20 miles northeast of Kalamazoo, will be filled with antique, classic, and special interest autos, as well as customs, street rods and military vehicles. You’ll even find special displays of vintage travel trailers, and antique boats. Both a Judged Car Show and Driver’s Choice Show will take place during the Saturday event.

Visitors will have the chance to step back in time, locate those hard-to-find parts for their restoration project, or even purchase a collector vehicle from the large cars for sale “corral” area. You’ll also find several vendors selling vintage auto-related items, general antiques, as well as arts and crafts. Guests will enjoy the variety of old-time food concessions and the Museum’s authentic 1940s roadside eatery—George & Sally’s Blue Moon Diner.

DeLorean
The DeLoreans bring you Back to the Future

Some highlights for this year’s event includes:

  • A special gathering of DeLoreans, best known for being Doc Brown’s time machine in the movie Back to the Future, will help pay homage to the 30th anniversary of the blockbuster Michael J. Fox film.
  • A chance to see the very last Tucker sedan built, completed 67 years after the controversial Tucker Corporation closed its doors. Only 50 of Preston Tucker’s dream cars were finished when the factory shut down in late 1948 amid scandal. The partially factory-assembled 51st car was completed in the 1980s using various fiberglass body panels. This Tucker, with cowl number 52, was an original test chassis and has just been completed with original, left-over factory body parts rather than fiberglass or composite reproductions.
  • A display of rarely seen 100 to 120 year old high-wheeled motor buggies—true horseless carriages—built between 1895 and 1915 will be showcased at the event. During the infancy of the automobile, many states passed “Red Flag” laws, requiring a person to carry a red flag and walk ahead of each car to warn others on the road of the oncoming vehicle.
  • A living history “Tin Can Tourist Camp” featuring several dozen antique and vintage campers and trailers from throughout the Midwest will be displayed on Gilmore’s historic campus.
  • “Boats at the Barns” is an amazing display area full of antique boats and motors, vintage wooden and classic fiberglass boats of all kinds—from barn find to stunningly restored.
  • Get an in-depth look at Sunseeker and meet the team of students from Western Michigan University who design, build, and race the car in the American Solar Challenge and Formula Sun Grand Prix.
  • The noon traffic “jam” is when all show cars announce their presence by sounding their horns!

Gilmore Car Museum 4Gates will open to the public at 9am for this ever-popular family friendly event, which runs until 4pm, while the Museum remains open until 6pm. Discounted admission for the day is only $12.00 per person, with those under 11 admitted FREE, and includes the car show and all the expanded Museum exhibit buildings.

The Gilmore Car Museum is located midway between Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, and Battle Creek, on M-43 just five miles north of Richland.

To learn more about the Gilmore Car Museum and the Red Barns Spectacular, visit: www.GilmoreCarMuseum.org or call the Museum at 269-671-5089

West Michigan Tourist Association Announces its Annual West Michigan Photo Contest

Recreation, Travel, ,

WMTAWith so much beauty found in West Michigan, the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) wants you to show off what you love most about this beautiful side of the state and have your photo featured on the cover of WMTA’s 2016 Carefree Travel Guide!

The West Michigan Tourist Association’s Carefree Travel Guide is a longstanding travel publication dating back to 1918, with 150,000 copies printed and distributed throughout the Midwest every year.

Along with having their photograph published on the cover of the 2016 Carefree Travel Guide, the photographer of the winning photo will receive a getaway package to St. Joseph/Benton Harbor!

The getaway package will include a two night stay at The Inn at Harbor Shores, as well as a prize package from St. Joseph Today and a wine basket from 12 Corners Vineyard (must be 21+ to receive wine basket).

Contest Details:

Accepted Photo Formats: High res .jpeg (300 dpi +) , .pdf, .tiff , .dng. Must be CMYK.

Photo Size: Keep in mind that photos will be cropped to 8.75 in width x 11.25 height if chosen for the cover.

How to Enter: E-mail all photos to PhotoContest@WMTA.org by September 9th, 2015.

Include With Entry:

  • Full Name
  • City that the photograph was taken in
  • Short description of the photo

Deadline: September 9th, 2015

By entering the West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide Cover Photo Contest, entrants agree to the rules and the decisions of the judges and further agree to allow the West Michigan Tourist Association to use their names and photos for marketing purposes without compensation.

Entrants must be at least 18 years old.

West Michigan Tourist Association Announces its Inaugural West Michigan Photo Contest!

Recreation, ,

by Sarah Koupalphone pics 2014 208

With so much beauty found in West Michigan, the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) wants you to show off what you love most about this beautiful side of the state and have your photo featured on the cover of WMTA’s 2015 Carefree Travel Guide!

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The West Michigan Tourist Association’s Carefree Travel Guide is a longstanding travel publication dating back to 1918, with 150,000 copies printed and distributed throughout the Midwest every year.

 

Along with having their photograph published on the cover of the 2015 Carefree Travel Guide, the photographer of the winning photo will receive two nights of lodging in a Lakeview Hotel Guest Room and one Superticket Lift Ticket for two people at Shanty Creek Resorts (valid for the 2014-15 Snowsports Season. Expires March 22, 2015).

 

Located in Bellaire, MI, Shanty Creek Resorts is a beautiful Northern Michigan hotel and resort. They offer the thrills of adventure and the peace of a mountain retreat, with three distinctive villages surrounded by two picturesque mountains, a pristine lake and four lush golf courses. Open year-round, Shanty Creek is a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts.

Contest Details:

Accepted photo formats: High res .jpeg (300 dpi +) , .pdf, .tiff , .dng. Must be CMYK.

 

Photo Size: Keep in mind that photos will be cropped to 8.75 in width x 11.25 height if chosen for the cover.

 

In e-mailing of photo, include:phone pics 2014 033

 

Full name
City that the photograph was taken in
Short description of the photo. 
Deadline: November 23, 2014

How to Enter:

E-mail all photos to Sarah@WMTA.org by November 23rd, 2014.

 

By entering the West Michigan Carefree Travel Guide Cover Photo Contest, entrants agree to the rules and the decisions of the judges and further agree to allow the West Michigan Tourist Association to use their names and photos for marketing purposes without compensation.

 

Entrants must be at least 18 years old. Good Luck!