Lake Michigan

Here are some shots from our wonderful road trip around Lake Michigan. We encircled the lake, but we also made some detours that took us to Lake Huron and Lake Superior. This trip was in June, and I was surprised at how cool it still was. Summer had not yet really arrived. The locals told us that spring had arrived quite late, so that was the reason why summer had not yet fully shown its face. Actually, it turned out to be a good thing for us as we avoided sweltering temperatures, uncomfortable humidity, and violent thunderstorms. Most importantly there were no bugs out! The only downside was that a lot of the summer flowers were not yet in bloom and, oh yes, the lake waters were way too cold to swim in. But in spite of all that, the views of the lake and shoreline were spectacular. 

The Michigan shores of Lake Michigan...

Lake Huron...

Lake Superior...

Lake Michigan from Wisconsin...

In my opinion, Lake Michigan is the most spectacular along the shores of Michigan. The beaches there are clean, white, and inviting whereas the western shoreline is quite rocky and not as tranquil. Wherever you view Lake Michigan from, though, it is a magnificent body of water; I highly recommend a trip to this natural wonder. Coming up next: magical Mackinac Island.

Midwestern Towns - Lake Michigan Area

I've fallen for those lovely midwestern towns. Charming. Quaint. Clean. Colorful. Friendly. Welcoming. What more could you ask for? Maybe if I had to live in one during the wintertime, I'd have a different opinion. But for now, I'll remain a big fan of midwestern towns. 

On our circle trip around Lake Michigan, we visited so many small towns that I literally began to lose track of them. Most were situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, but others were in Upper Michigan nestled along the shores of Lake Superior and Lake Huron. I didn't take photos of all, and we weren't able to spend a lot of time in every place that we drove through. There is, of course, unfortunately always a schedule to adhere to. 

Here are a few shots from the towns we strolled around in and got to know a bit better. I'll spare you more words on how impressed I am with this whole Great Lakes region. Just take a look for yourself. 

St. Joseph is known for its fun beach attractions, colorful stores, and delicious fudge... 

 Holland is known for its Dutch heritage, Tulip Time Festival, and beautiful Hope College...

 Manistee is known for its association with the salt industry and its great fishing...

 Arcadia is known for its many summer homes...

 Suttons Bay is known for having no fast-food restaurants, stop lights, or parking meters...

 Fishtown is known for its preservation of the Great Lakes maritime culture and history...

 Traverse City is known for its abundant cherry harvests, picturesque wineries, and outdoor activities...

 Charlevoix is known for having the best natural harbor on Lake Michigan...

Marquette, on the shores of Lake Superior, is known for its ore shipping and in 2012 was listed as one of the top ten best places to retire...

Green Bay, Wisconsin, is known for its devoted fans of the Green Bay Packers...

 Milwaukee is known - of course - for its breweries and isn't really a "small town"...

My favorite towns were Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs; unfortunately, I didn't photograph the latter two. I'll just have to go back to those! Coming next: Small town houses in the Midwest.