Wasn’t it just April? Didn’t the leaves finally fill in, the green landscape beautify and all our flying friends return? Well folks it’s that time again. Time to start thinking of…eeek don’t even say it! Back To School….dunnn dunnn dunnnn (in my most suspenseful voice possible). For all the last-minuters, I have an affordable, close-by list of Michigan’s must do before summer ends.
photo by: Tim Burke for MDOT
Must Do #1 – Sky Gazing
Right now it’s all about the meteor showers of Perseid. I found a great list of showers and dates here.
I’m still in awe when I look up on a clear night sky. I remember as a kid traveling north from the city and being so fascinated by all the stars. Many late nights were spent by the campfire next to the lake bundled up to catch a glimpse of the next shooting star.
The best way to view the night sky you ask? Why from Twin Cedars Resort of course! No light pollution! And for your convenience I’ve included a few night sky watching gadgets:
Must Do #2 – Beach It
Cause seriously, August in northern Michigan is the best month! The lakes are refreshingly warm enough for swimming…finally! The days are still long and hot enough to enjoy a nice dip and everyone should experience our states greatest asset.
Your options from here:
- Closest of course is just down the road at the Trout Lake Campground on Carp Lake
- About 25 minutes is the “Beach of U.S. 2” basically think like you’re getting off the Mackinac Bridge and heading west. It’s an entire coastline of incredible Lake Michigan and her fine sand dunes. Gorgeous!
- And if you’re brave, head further north to Lake Superior. The deepest and likely still cold but wow, does it have some of the most amazing scenery!
I’ve had Family visit from Florida thinking they were at the ocean again but if you’re from Michigan you know our bodies of water are so much better!
Must Do #3 – Take a History Lesson
Keeping it fun and entertaining, they’ll never know you’re really trying to inspire them before returning to school. A trip full of our nation’s past can be fun for everyone…I’m telling the truth…no really…
Your options from here:
- The closest little slice of history is our local School House turned museum.
- Of course you have to do Mackinac Island before summer ends! You guys knew this one would end up on the list right?
- The Great Lakes Ship Wreck Museum at Whitefish Point
photo by: Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society
Must Do #4 – Shopping
Not the back-to-school kind but keeping it uniquely U.P. of course.
Your options from here:
- Closest in little Trout Lake is BJ’s Lapidary and Collectibles
- The Gourd Barn for something different
- A walk along downtown St. Ignace. You can’t get anymore small-town Michigan than taking that little shoreline peering across the straits to Mackinac Island.
photo by: NCT, Hiawatha Shore-to-Shore
Must Do #5 – Good Eats
Many shops and restaurants close for the winter months so get it while the gettins’ good, ya know?
Your options from here:
- King’s Fish Market in Moran this doesn’t close completely but has more limited hours. Must try the Smoked Trout Dip!
- The Gangplank Pub & Grub in St. Ignace only has outdoor seating on a covered wooden deck, very unique and the food is fresh. Must try the Whitefish Tacos or (my personal favorite) if you like a little spice, the Shrimp Poorboy on a pita instead of the hoagie bun. Get either with a side of fresh salsa and chips. Yum!
- Clyde’s Drive-in, because it’s a classic!
So if you’re planning on taking a little trip before summer ends make sure you get our list of absolute must-have getaway essentials, the things you didn’t actually think of.
Keep up with our latest shenanigans by following along on Facebook!
Related posts:
7 Rules to live by when visiting Mackinac Island, being a fudgie
Michigan Upper Peninsula Bucket List, 50 things to do
Morel Mushroom Hunting, 10 tips you may not know
7 Most Scenic Hiking Trails in MI’s Eastern U.P.
