Michigan BLUE | Summer 2025 by Grand Rapids Magazine

Summer Adventures

Meet Christina and Eric

This edition features Christina and Eric, who moved into their Eastbrook home at the beginning of 2024 – right in the middle of a winter storm! The couple was no stranger to unpredictability, however.

With five kids, many of them teenagers, never-ending excitement is a part of Christina and Eric’s daily life, which is why they deeply appreciated the way they were able to turn their Eastbrook home into a haven of peace and serenity with the help of the Eastbrook design team. Read more of Christina and Eric’s story below!

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We incorporated all things “us” by customizing every nook and cranny to fit our likes, loves, and interests.”

-

Christina and Eric

When did you move into your home?

The one and only winter storm….January 15th, 2024.

What home plan do you have?

The Stafford.

How did you incorporate your family’s lifestyle into your home?

Since we have a blended family of five kiddos and a house full of very active teens, we incorporated all things “us” by customizing every nook and cranny to fit our likes, loves, and interests.

What is your decorating inspiration?

Mid-century modern decor and fashion.

What do you love about your Eastbrook community?

We love the location between Zeeland and Hudsonville.

What are your favorite features in your home?

Our custom kitchen and one-of-a-kind under-stairs storage/bookcase.

What does “home” mean to you?

A place for peace and contentment

Do you have any tips or tricks for new homeowners?

Do your research. Knowing what you like, what interests you, and how you’re going to utilize your home can make the design process so much easier. With an avid interior design plan and inside knowledge of the latest and greatest, we were able to enjoy the conception and design of our home and how we plan on using it now and in the future.

If you’re interested in learning more about building or buying new with Eastbrook Homes, our team is here to help. Reach out today with your questions and dreams and we’ll help turn them into a reality.

View more photos of this home!

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FEATURES

51 Photo Essay

A Marquette resident takes us on an Upper Peninsula journey with her favorite Sony camera.

By Shannon Kivi

56 Lakeside Serenity

Function and form come together seamlessly at this Walloon Lake oasis. By

Tracy Donohue

62 Southwest Sampler

Situated along Lake Michigan, this corner of the state brims with dreamy diversions.

By Blue Staff

70 Mary’s Marvelous Meals

74 Lake St. Clair Legacy

O ne of the nation’s oldest private clubs is undergoing a stunning renovation. By Khristi

Zimmeth

Swoyer

Ingredients for a good cookbook include a seasoned author, personal stories, and the ease of spiral binding. By Megan

Photo

The sun sets on Lake Superior during a Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore cruise in Munising.

PHOTO

If your idea of the perfect vacation is sugar-sand beaches, clear blue waters along 28 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, outdoor adventures, climbing to the top of historic lighthouses, or exploring a charming downtown, Ludington is your destination for Pure Michigan fun.

Ludington's unspoiled natural resources offers a quintessential “Up North” experience all within easy reach located at the intersection of U.S. 31 and U.S. 10. No matter what you're seeking - a beach or outdoor adventure, a peaceful get-away, or just a community of friendly faces - you can find it in Pure Ludington.

go. Start planning your Summer adventures now at:

WATERWAYS

18 Sky, Sand & Surf

The Les Cheneaux Islands archipelago entices visitors to explore its smalltown charms, and with miles of public beaches and a revitalized downtown, it’s time to rediscover Muskegon. By Mark Spezia and Marla R. Miller

25 Field Guide

Updates on the Sail Detroit Festival, tracking moose numbers, and milestone anniversaries for Michigan attractions. By Ron Garbinski

26 Get Outdoors

Scenic treks lead hikers along the banks of some of the state’s amazing rivers, and leave the crowds behind to explore the lessvisited attractions on Mackinaw City’s west side. By Mark Spezia and Ron Garbinski

32 Staff Picks

From road trips and hikes to wine-tastings and star shows, these northern Michigan outings rank high on our list.

34 Page-Turner

A mother-daughter duo creates a popular Mackinac Island coloring/ activity book for all ages. By Megan Swoyer

36 Headwaters Thumbcoast

Theaters’ founder hopes the riverfront will become Michigan’s live performance hub. By Bill Semion

DESIGN CURRENTS

40 Studio Visit

A pastel artist is on the stick when it comes to turning out gorgeous paintings. By Megan Swoyer

44 The Elements

With the National Cherry Festival (June 28-July 5) upon us, we present goodies inspired by our favorite Michigan fruit. By Jamie Fabbri

46 Designer’s Notebook

Sweet dreams in a Ludington mansion, seeing purple at Mackinac Island’s Mission Point, and a new home store in Detroit. By Amy S. Eckert and Megan Swoyer

48 Design Star

How a historic home on Lake Orion checks off all the boxes for its designloving owner. By Megan Swoyer

ANCHORS AWEIGH

80 Tasting Room

Short’s, a Michigan brewing legend, is growing its distinctive beer lineup and expanding its footprint. By Dianna Stampfler

82 Dining Out

The new, year-round Walloon Watershed eatery and bar have become an instant favorite among locals and visitors. By Dianna Stampfler

84 Book It

Overnight stays in Manistee on a restored 1931 Great Lakes ferry, the last of her kind, bring the past to life. By Ellen Creager

86 Discoveries

It’s summertime, and the living is easy — and the Mackinac Island nightlife is humming, too. By Glen Young

IN EVERY ISSUE

14 Reflections Seventh Heaven. By Megan Swoyer

88 Postcard

The South Haven South Pier

Lighthouse lured a photographer to a nice fishing spot and a photoperfect view. By Clyde Brazie Jr.

THE SUPER VERSATILE JET

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Seventh Heaven

Michigan Blue’s features often whisk me down a river of memories, complete with cerulean blue skies, turquoise waters, and emeraldgreen forests, all made more enjoyable and unforgettable because I’m experiencing nature with my family.

Looking at the astounding photography in this issue, I’m in Seventh Heaven once again. In the reverie that it inspires, I’m dreaming about tooling through the Upper Peninsula with my husband and sons. This time,we’re exploring St. Ignace, Sault Ste. Marie, Copper Harbor, Newberry, Grand Marais, Negaunee, Paradise, Marquette, Munising, Au Train, and Seney, — and the list goes on.

As I recall these carefree hours, I’m once again on a tourist boat at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore that’s dropping me and my kayak into Lake Superior’s somewhatchoppy waters. Already gliding ahead of me are my two sons, while seated behind and with me, my husband paddles. As my three rocks, they calmed my fears when our tour guide stated, “Yeah, there’s a slight chop today.”

The night before that adventure, the four of us sat in a Marquette hotel room talking excitedly about the multi-hued sandstone cliffs and the vivid waters we’d soon experience up close and personal, deciding where we’d grab coffee, and determining who would share a kayak with whom.

When my head hit the pillow that night, motherly thoughts ebbed and ﬂowed in my head, recalling the time nearly two decades earlier when we ﬁrst introduced our sons to Pictured Rocks. Donning our souvenir Upper Peninsula T-shirts, we boarded a large tour boat — no kayaking on that visit, as they were much too young to navigate Lake Superior. Back then, my worries didn’t loom as large, because I had more control.

The kayaking excursion was more than we imagined. The chop was evident, and I felt it, but our ever-watchful tour boat was never far from us as we paddled through the stunningly vibrant turquoise waves (the clear waters allow sunlight to travel far into its depths and the deeper the water, the more luminous the color). While bobbing amid the crests and feeling the sun on my face, I leaned back for a couple minutes to absorb the majestic cliffs, those pictured rocks and their streaky mineralstained hues of siennas, pinks, and greens, and the relaxing sloshing and splashing sounds of Lake Superior against our kayak — and I was inspired to break the silence.

Slight chop or not, there’s no way I would have missed out on that adventure. Each second, each droplet of time spent in nature with my trio of men is golden. Like tiny pebbles polished by water and wind over the years, my memories glisten brightly. I’m sure we’re etching something that will never disappear from our hearts; it’s permanent imagery that will color all my musings.

I yelled “Seventh!” and my three “rocks” chuckled. They knew what I meant; it’s our family’s code for “I’m in Seventh Heaven.” They’ve heard it time and again, always in nature and always with them.

Although they may be reluctant to admit it, I have to think they were in Seventh, too.

Volume 20 | Issue 3 mibluemag.com

Publisher: Jason Hosko

EDITORIAL

Editor: Megan Swoyer

Travel Editor: Ron Garbinski

Copy Editor: Anne Berry Daugherty

Contributors: Clyde Brazie Jr., Ellen Creager, Tracy Donohue, Amy S. Eckert, Jamie Fabbri, Jeff Garland, Shannon Kivi, Tyler Leipprandt, Chris McElmeel, Marla R. Miller, Sherry Miller, Giuseppa Nadrowski, Bill Semion, Mark Spezia, Dianna Stampfler, Martin Vecchio, Glen Young, Khristi Zimmeth

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Creative Director: Lindsay Richards

Art Director: Mike Wagester

Associate Art Director: Steven Prokuda

Senior Production Artist: Stephanie Daniel

Production Manager: Crystal Nelson

Account Manager: Elizabeth Kowalik

Production Assistant: Alessandra Taranta

Special Project Editors: Emily Doran, Olivia Sedlacek

Graphic Designer: Joe Salafia

SALES

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DIGITAL

Director of Digital Strategy: Travis Fletcher

Digital Development Manager: Matthew Cappo

Senior Digital Development Specialist: Luanne Lim

Digital Development Specialist: Izak Geisler

Digital Strategy Interns: Connor Cooper, Keerthana Reddy, Jacalyn Wyka

IT IT Director: Jeremy Leland

CIRCULATION

Director of Audience Development: Geralyn Wilson

Circulation Manager: Riley Meyers

Senior Circulation Coordinators: David Benvenuto, Rachel Moulden

Circulation Coordinators: Cathy Krajenke, Michele Wold

Circulation Customer Service: 866-660-6247

MARKETING

Marketing & Events Manager: Regan Wright

Marketing & Events Coordinators: Lindsay Sheridan, Maya Stephenson

Marketing & Events Administrative Assistant: Isabella Amadori

ADMINISTRATION

Director of Business Operations: Kathie Gorecki

Senior Accounting Associate: Andrew Kotzian

Accounting Associates: Jenna Glod, Austin Schmelzle

PUBLISHED BY HOUR MEDIA, LLC

CEO: Stefan Wanczyk | President: John Balardo

Michigan Blue magazine is published quarterly by Hour Media. Publishing oﬃce: 5750 New King Dr., Suite 100 Troy, MI 48098. Telephone 616-459-4545; fax 616-459-4800. General email: info@hour-media.com

mswoyer@hour-media.com

Copyright ©2025 by Hour Media. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Michigan Blue magazine,1965 E. Avis Dr., Madison Heights, MI 48071. Subscription rates: one year $14.95, two years $24.95, three years $34.95, U.S. only. Single issue and newsstand $5.95 (by mail $8.95). To subscribe or to order back issues, please contact Circulation at 866-660-6247. Advertising rates and speciﬁcations at mibluemag.com or by request. Michigan Blue magazine is not responsible for unsolicited contributions.

WATERWAYS

There are a lot of intriguing historic and scenic sites to explore on the

including

Read about what and where to visit on the less-crowded side of

west side of Mackinaw City,

this road that leads to Wilderness State Park.

town in Get Outdoors, inside this section. MICHIGAN

SKY, SAND & SURF

Rediscover Muskegon

With miles of public beaches and a revitalized downtown, this Lake Michigan waterfront community can’t wait for summer to begin

BY Marla R. Miller

Muskegon’s pristine beaches are no doubt its best-kept secret. Whether you opt for sun time at one of the three scenic state parks, enjoy live music in the sand at Pere Marquette Park, or bring fido to the city’s dog beach (leashes required), the Muskegon community showcases 26 miles of white sandy shoreline, miles of multi-use trails, two paddle sport rivers, and a revitalized downtown with

thriving restaurants and shopping venues. The Muskegon area sparkles during the summer — it’s a Lake Michigan destination worth rediscovering.

The region shines as a haven for outdoor recreation, especially water sports. Muskegon Lake, Bear Lake, Mona Lake, and White Lake provide access to Lake Michigan, plus there’s plenty of prime fishing, boating, and waterfront living.

“You can get on the water in so many

different ways, with boat launches and kayak launches and beaches everywhere,” says Dan Bonner, outdoor adventure specialist at Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park.

Bonner grew up in Muskegon and chased outdoor adventures in Colorado and North Carolina before realizing he missed home. “I thought I was going to find something better, (but) there’s nothing like the Great Lakes,” he says.

The four-season sports complex, located in Muskegon State Park, offers a wheel luge track, a dual zipline, an archery range, a 38-foot rock-climbing wall, ADA trails, and adaptive sports during the summer. The state park is home to unique terrain and Lake Michigan overlooks, with more than 12 miles of hiking trails within the state park. The trails have new signage, from the Muskegon Lake channel through the sand dunes and woods, connecting to the Muskegon Blockhouse, Lost Lake Trail, and the Luge Adventure Sports Park.

“Muskegon has a variety of trails for all

different types of users,” Bonner adds. “We have (everything from) accessible trails, where you can push a stroller and be out in nature, to really steep dunes you can climb and more advanced hiking trails.”

Here’s a collection of more reasons why visitors should explore Muskegon this summer.

• Pere Marquette Park, once a sleepy city beach, bustles on peak summer weekends with sunbathers, boaters, volleyball players, and kiteboarders. Attractions include playground and picnic areas, waterfront dining with daily live music, and beach festivals. Walk the 1,514-foot pier or stroll along the channel to see the historic USS Silversides Submarine, Muskegon South Breakwater Light, and the Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse, which is open for tours from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

• Recent $6.4-million renovations at P.J. Hoffmaster State Park include all new roads, upgrades at the campground, and a new restroom facility at the beach. While there, set aside some time to enjoy the dune climbs and the Gillette Visitor Center, which is slated to open this fall, to learn about the dune ecosystem and wildlife in the park.

• The USS Silversides, counted among the most successful submarines in the Pacific Theater of World War II, is one of the best-preserved submarines in the country. It’s now a museum moored along the Muskegon Lake Channel. Military and history buffs enjoy touring the submarine, which can be reserved for overnight stays by groups. “Our waterfront setting is perfect for reflection and exploration,” says Bethann Egan, the museum’s executive director. “There’s no better place to connect with the past while enjoying Michigan’s natural beauty.”

• The Muskegon Lakeshore Trail serves as a popular connector between the beach, the Lakeside District neighborhood, and downtown Muskegon. The multi-use trail winds along the shoreline of Muskegon Lake.

• Bicyclists can explore other parts of the county via the Fred Meijer Berry Junction Trail, which connects Muskegon to Whitehall and the Musketawa Trail, which goes to Marne. “Our bike trails are unique to anywhere I’ve lived,” Bonner says. “It’s pretty amazing how much access there is to the entire state by bike trail.”

• The 22-mile-long Hart-Montague Bike Trail State Park, Michigan’s first linear state park, runs north for 22 miles through the forest and hills from Montague to Hart. The Mosquito Creek Trails offer year-round outdoor recreation, with more than 10 miles of backcountry mountain biking trails.

The region shines as a haven for outdoor recreation, especially water sports. Muskegon Lake, Bear Lake, Mona Lake, and White Lake provide access to Lake Michigan, plus there’s plenty of prime fishing, boating, and waterfront living.

• Steven Crooks, owner of WaterDog Outfitters in nearby Whitehall, has built a business around the area’s pedal- and paddle-powered sports. WaterDog’s new building carries paddle sports and camping equipment, and offers bicycle and kayak rentals, sales, and even bicycle repair. There’s also access to the Hart-Montague

This page: The Aquastar — a former Mackinac Island ferry boat — offers themed boat cruises and sunset sailings on Muskegon Lake and through the Muskegon Channel to view Lake Michigan.

Opposite page: The Muskegon community showcases 26 miles of white sandy shoreline.

trail. “What we’ve found, specifically in the White Lake area and even in Muskegon’s downtown area, is there’s a lot of growth happening and there’s a lot of excitement, but we’re still a sleepy little town that doesn’t get overly busy,” Crooks says. “You feel like you’re at home and don’t have to wait two hours to eat at a restaurant.”

• Muskegon’s revitalized downtown serves as a hub for arts and cultural activities. The walkable district features public art, gardens, parks, and a social district, as well as several history museums — such as the Hackley & Hume Historic Site, the Muskegon Museum of History & Science, the USS LST 393 Veteran’s Museum, and the Muskegon Heritage Museum of Business & Industry.

• The Muskegon Museum of Art completed a $15.7-million expansion in early 2025, nearly doubling its size with four new exhibition galleries and other public spaces to expand the MMA as a regional destination. On tap this summer is an exhibit called “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life.” Kirk Hallman, the museum’s executive director, boasts: “Our arts and culture are second to none along the lakeshore. We’ve turned a corner.” The MMA’s original building is now devoted to its impressive permanent collection, plus displays of studio glass and contemporary works by up-and-coming artists. “We can make a bigger dent in

displaying the 5,500 pieces as we rotate the permanent collection in the historic space,” Hallman says.

• Muskegon has grown into a busy cruise ship port, and attracts visitors from around the world. The city also hosts many concerts and festivals at Hackley Park and Heritage Landing. At the Mart Dock, the Aquastar — a former Mackinac Island ferry boat — offers themed boat cruises and sunset sailings on Muskegon Lake and through the Muskegon Channel to view Lake Michigan. The Muskegon Farmers Market sells fresh produce and local food and art. From there, it’s an easy walk to shop at the Western Market chalets or enjoy lunch or dinner at several restaurants and breweries.

News Flash: In April, Muskegon approved a new, free shuttle service between its Lake Michigan beaches and downtown that would run weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Route options were still being discussed as this issue of Michigan Blue was going to press. Officials say any proposed routes could ease congestion and parking issues around the lakefront districts.

Helpful Service: Pere Marquette Park, Muskegon State Park, Muskegon Luge, and P.J. Hoffmaster State Park have all-terrain track chairs that can be reserved, so people who use wheelchairs can get out in the sand or on the trails.

Top: Pere Marquette Park, Muskegon State Park, and P.J. Hoffmaster State Park offer all-terrain track chairs so people who use wheelchairs can get around in the sand.

Bottom: Cyclists enjoy biking along the Muskegon Lake Channel near the USS LST 393 Veteran’s Museum.

Left: The Deck open-air restaurant at Pere Marquette Park usually is packed during warmweather months.

Dining Scene: The Deck at Pere Marquette Park, an expansive open-air restaurant near the pier, offers a relaxing family atmosphere with barbeque, beer, and live music daily. The restaurant has expanded its covered seating, and added sunshades and heaters for fickle Michigan days. The popular Dockers Fish House in Harbour Towne was recently sold and will reopen as BoDocks Marina Bar & Grill under Harris Hospitality in 2026. It will also feature live music and more dock and slip space for people who frequently arrive by boat.

Water Views: Lake Bluff Grille at the Muskegon Country Club serves contemporary American fare and overlooks Muskegon Lake from its bluff-side setting. The Lake House Waterfront Grille has a view of Terrace Point Marina, with outdoor dining overlooking the docks. Muskegon Brewing Co. opened last summer and has a large deck that showcases Muskegon Lake.

So bring your beach gear and your appetite, because several new restaurants — Western Chophouse, Lumberman’s Vault, and Liquid Assets Cocktail & Wine Bar — plus lots of other businesses are preparing for the summer crowds.

Plan It!

Visit Muskegon visitmuskegon.org

The Upper Peninsula’s Les Cheneaux Islands archipelago entices visitors to explore its smalltown charms and jagged Lake Huron shoreline

SKY, SAND & SURF

A Paradise Primer

BY Mark Spezia

Stretching across 12 miles of picturesque northern Lake Huron shoreline roughly 30 minutes northeast of the Mackinac Bridge lies a paradise of outdoor recreation, maritime history, exceptional boating experiences, and much more, known as the Les Cheneaux Islands.

Describing all that the archipelago of 36

islands off the jagged shores of Hessel and Cedarville has to offer isn’t an easy task, but the Les Cheneaux Islands Chamber of Commerce coordinator, Sydney Meadows, comes close.

“The area combines the natural beauty of miles of channels throughout the islands and the sparkling Lake Huron shoreline with the small-town charm of two harbor

communities,” she says. “Visitors enjoy unique shopping and dining experiences a short walk from the marinas, and can explore the area by paddling, boating, hiking, biking, birding, or ORVing. Our Antique Wooden Boat Show, which takes place in August, is very popular.”

Travel blogger and Michigan native Shalee Super puts it more succinctly: “The

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHALEE SUPER

WATERWAYS

Les Cheneaux Islands are an eastern Upper Peninsula oasis.”

Let’s take a closer look at some of the exciting possibilities.

KAYAKING

Perhaps the best way to become immersed in the area’s intriguing beauty is by kayaking around the islands’ endless coves, channels, bays, marshes, and inlets, which also offer protection from Lake Huron’s open waters.

Peninsulas that jut out from the mainland are worth exploring via non-motorized watercraft. Nesting eagles and ospreys, picturesque cottages, antique wooden boats, and wild, forested shorelines are some of the sites visible from the water.

One of many options is paddling to Government Island, the only one of the islands that’s comprised entirely of public land (Hiawatha National Forest). There are five rustic first-come-first-served campsites scattered throughout the mostly white cedar forest, as well as a limited trail system. The north shore features the sandy Government Bay beach, which is nice for swimming.

Woods & Waters (woodsandwaters.eco) offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, plus guided tours ranging from two hours to multiple days. Kayaking tour options include sunrise, sunset, half- and full-day, womenonly, and full moon trips. Visitors also can work with guides to create custom tours and schedule kayaking lessons.

“We plan the best routes to take based on the day’s weather,” owner and guide Sue Bakkila says. “Guided trips eliminate the stress of being responsible for all the decisions — and we know where to go, teach you how to paddle, share stories, and manage risks so you can focus on making memories. The water is calmer and warmer than Lake Superior, making this a great place for firsttime kayakers.”

BOAT TOURS/RENTALS

Island Charters (islandchartersmi.com) offers a range of custom boat tours, from thoroughly exploring the islands to going all the way to Mackinac Island or Drummond Island.

Shepler’s Ferry Service (sheplersferry. com) hosts a five-hour Les Cheneaux Lighthouse tour that features views of six lighthouses and includes an extensive exploration of island channels and reefs. A Great Lakes Lighthouse Keepers Association expert serves as the narrator.

For those who would rather explore on their own, Hills Point Resort

Opposite page: Roughly 30 minutes northeast of the Mackinac Bridge awaits Les Cheneaux Islands, an eastern Upper Peninsula nature oasis.

Right: There are 36 islands to explore off the jagged shores of Hessel and Cedarville, including this peaceful spot on the Bush Bay (Narnia) Trail.

(hillspointresort.com) rents large pontoons (up to 14 passengers) and other types of motorized boats for up to seven days.

Cedarville Marine (cedarvillemarine. com) also rents pontoons, with a maximum capacity of 10 passengers.

FISHING

The species of fish caught around the Les Cheneaux Islands are too numerous to mention but include yellow perch, northern pike, bass, lake trout, whitefish, herring, splake, walleye, and salmon (Atlantic, Chinook, coho, and pink).

Smallmouth bass can be found throughout the islands around rocky bottoms, while brook trout are found in the area’s creeks and streams. The Carp River is known for steelhead. Hill Island Bridge and the pier in Hessel are popular spots for those who like to fish from shore.

Island Charters offers charter fishing options, from big lake to fly-fishing, for up to six passengers. Everything required for fishing (except your license) is provided, including cleaning and filleting services.

HIKING/BIKING

Take time to explore the Little Traverse Conservancy’s (landtrust.org) and The Nature Conservancy’s Michigan chapter’s (nature.org/michigan) multiple nature preserves in the area.

The Bush Bay (Narnia) Trail, which

begins from a parking area 5 miles east of Cedarville, stands out, immersing you in a fairy-tale setting at times with its lush greenery and massive, moss-covered boulders, some with trees growing from them. A “Welcome to Narnia” post placed among the boulders can be found just over a mile in.

The one-way, 2-mile trek also features towering pine and cedar trees; several coves along Lake Huron with sizable, weathered rocks; the ruins of two cabins; mushrooms peeking out from logs; and possible Great Lakes freighter sightings.

The trail leads to the John Arthur Woollam Preserve, which offers more hiking on its Woollam Preserve Loop (4.3 miles) and Sandy Cove Loop, which showcases stunning scenery along a Lake Huron bay.

“The Narnia Trail is an enchanting stretch of woods,” Super says.

The Carl A. Gerstacker Nature Preserve has nearly 3 miles of hiking trails to Big and Little Trout lakes on the north side of M-134, 5 miles of Lake Huron shoreline, and parts of two creeks.

“The whole Les Cheneaux Islands area is beautiful for hiking because of all the rocky beauty formed by how the glaciers retreated and scraped the landscape,” says Helen Taylor, The Nature Conservancy’s Michigan director. “It’s also a major stop for migratory birds heading north. The Gerstacker Preserve is unique in that it offers beach walking and a

trek through the woods to two inland lakes.”

At the William B. Derby Jr. Nature Preserve, visitors experience a boreal forest with moss-draped boulders as well as moss and lichen under foot, rock gardens, and access to the rugged Lake Huron shore on about a 3-mile looped trail. The southwestern section of the trail leads to the edge of Snows Channel, a scenic stop for birdwatching.

The Birge/Mertaugh/Nye complex of nature preserves offers a 2-mile inland trail plus a 2-mile loop along Lake Huron.

“The Derby Preserve is a kind of fairyland, with limestone rocks, and the trail leads to the edge of Snows Channel, a great place for birdwatching,” says LTC’s director of communications and outreach, Anne Fleming. “The Birge preserves also offer a 400-meter trail to Loon Lake, another great birding spot.”

Marquette Island, accessible only by boat, has four preserves totaling more than 2,000 acres and 5 miles of Lake Huron shoreline.

Search Bay Preserve (fs.usda.gov/recarea/ hiawatha) offers primitive camping near a rocky beach and has access to national forest trails.

EXTRA THRILLS: Rent bikes through Woods & Waters to try the new Peek-A-Boo Trails, the first professionally designed and built mountain biking trails in the eastern Upper Peninsula, which will be completed this summer. Some sections are already ridable.

The Cranberry Lake Trails total nearly 10 miles through state forest and along the lake. The area’s gravel roads provide more biking opportunities (detourvacationhomes.com).

DINING

Options for dining abound, including Cattails Cove, which boasts “the area’s best fish,” according to Bakkila, as well as steak bites, Reubens, spicy chicken salad, whitefish, and perch. Cattails is located behind Cedarville Marina and has a cozy outdoor patio.

Les Cheneaux Distillers and Brewery handcrafts its own line of spirits, including vodka, gin, rum, and whiskey. It also brews its own craft beers, such as its flagship ale and a blonde pilsner called Buoy Tipper Blonde. Food options include burgers, nachos, appetizers, and more.

Snows Bar & Grill offers a casual dining in a setting known for its log furnishings and a stone bar. The menu features tasty burgers with names such as Snows Burger and Hangover Burger.

The Les Cheneaux Culinary School & Restaurant, which overlooks Hessel Bay,

focuses on farm-to-table dining five evenings a week, beginning June 13. Culinary students complete their education showcasing what they’ve learned by creating menus, preparing food, and operating the restaurant.

Find made-from-scratch pastries and other breakfast staples, an expansive deck, and artwork by local artists at the Les Cheneaux Coffee Roasters. Check out The Ice Cream Shoppe or Liberty Bay Cookie Co. for sweet treats. See lescheneaux.net/restaurants for more details.

MUSEUMS

The Les Cheneaux Historical Association (lchistorical.org) operates a historical and a maritime museum in Cedarville.

The maritime museum is filled with displays of vintage boats, antique motors, unusual marine artifacts, and historic photos of area boating activity.

The historical museum is housed in two buildings. Displays in a log cabin depict the early days of the area’s settlement, and a newer building showcases how the area has changed throughout the years.

BIG WEEKEND

The area buzzes with activity the second weekend of every August. This year’s fun begins with a classic car and motorcycle show on Aug. 8, followed the next day by the

47th annual Les Cheneaux Antique Wooden Boat Show, which draws about 150 classic boats and some 10,000 attendees. The public casts votes for the winning boat in several categories.

There’s also a Festival of Arts on the same day, featuring 65 Midwest artists displaying and selling their work. A Dockside Traders area features merchants and organizations with an Upper Peninsula or maritime theme.

Plan It!

Les Cheneaux Islands lescheneaux.net

education by serving up yummy dishes they create for guests.

Above: Visitors can hike about a 3-mile loop through a boreal forest with mossdraped rocks at the William B. Derby Jr. Nature Preserve, a designated stop along the North Huron Birding Trail.

Left: Every summer, students at the Les Cheneaux Culinary School & Restaurant in Hessel complete their

Tall ships such as The Pride II will begin arriving at the Hart Plaza/ Renaissance Center waterfront Aug. 7 for the fabulous Sail Detroit Festival.

Exploring Michigan: Tips, trends, and tidbits

Field Guide

WATERFRONT CELEBRATION: This summer, the Sail Detroit Festival will welcome several famous tall ships of various sizes and styles from around the world to the Detroit River and the Hart Plaza/Renaissance Center waterfront. The ships will begin arriving Aug. 7 and will be available Aug. 8-10 for public viewing and access (tickets required). The Detroit event is part of the 2025 Tall Ships Challenge, which includes stops in other U.S. ports. More than 1 million people gathered along the Detroit riverfront during the city’s tricentennial in 2001 to participate in similar tall ship activities. The family-friendly festival is sponsored by the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority. Its office footprint at Atwater Street near the Renaissance Center will be transformed into a hub of happenings for the celebration. saildetroit.com

MOOSE STUDY: The Michigan DNR, Northern Michigan University, and the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community are investigating cause-specific mortality to help discover why the western Upper Peninsula’s moose population growth has become stagnant. A 2023 biennial aerial survey estimated there were only 426 moose, compared to initial expectations of 1,000 moose by 2000 after the animals were reintroduced in the mid1980s. In late February, the researchers, assisted by aerial spotters, captured and fitted 20 moose with GPS collars to track their locations and movements. Hopefully this data will reveal the causes of mortality, habitats the animals rely on, and their distribution in the region, to reveal why the population isn’t growing. The effort will continue next winter, when about 40 more moose will be collared. michigan.gov/dnr/about/newsroom

HONORING LONGEVITY: Hats off to an exceptional collection of Michigan sites, cities, and institutions that are celebrating milestone anniversaries in 2025: Fort Gratiot Lighthouse/Port Huron (original lighthouse established), 200 years; National House Inn/Marshall, 190 years: Grand Rapids, 175 years; Michigan State University, 170 years; Bad Axe, Bridgman, Clare, Dutton, Harrisville, and Onondaga, all 155 years; Bay View Association/Petoskey, Gaylord, Osceola County Fairgrounds, Evart, and White River Light Station/ Whitehall, all 150 years; Harbor Springs and Kent Theatre/Cedar Springs, 145 years; Better Made Chips/Detroit, and Crooked Tree Arts Center Building/Petoskey, 135 years; and Mackinac State Historic Parks, Round Island Lighthouse/Straits of Mackinac, and Seul Choix Point Lighthouse/ Gulliver, all 130 years.

— Compiled by Ron Garbinski

Have news that pertains to Michigan’s natural resources, travel, or exploration? Send a note to MSwoyer@Hour-Media.com.

Call of the Wild

Scenic treks lead hikers through Pure Michigan solitude along the banks of some of the state’s most amazing rivers

Acollection of Michigan’s most breathtaking trails runs along and around the state’s more than 51,000 miles of river, including 656 miles designated as wild and scenic by the U.S. Forest Service. Most offer unforgettable experiences and views, taking hikers to bluffs high above the rushing water or close enough to feel the spray of waterfalls. Here are four of Michigan’s finest river hikes.

North Country Trail

Black River Section

BY Mark Spezia

How does encountering one waterfall per mile sound? It’s possible on this picturesque stretch of the North Country Trail, near Bessemer in the Upper Peninsula.

The hike is a roughly 7- to 9-mile, out-and-back excursion passing five jaw-dropping waterfalls on the Black River as it descends through a canyon-like setting during the final stretch of

INSETS: Hikers can enjoy a

its awesome journey to Lake Superior.

The best place to begin is at the parking lot for Great Conglomerate Falls, off the Black River Scenic Byway. Take the path there to where it intersects with the North Country Trail and the falls, which divides the river into two sections around a chunk of conglomerate rock before dropping 40 feet.

Head north on the NCT to Potawatomi Falls, which tumbles 30 feet over a large rock that also splits the flow. Most of the

ABOVE: This aerial view of the Lower Falls shows the 143-foot Ronald A. Olson Bridge at Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

beautiful view of the Upper Falls (left) or birdwatching opportunities along the scenic River Trail (top).

water is pushed toward the eastern bank; the other side is a steeper plunge.

A short distance downstream and a short walk off the path is Gorge Falls, a 25-foot drop through a narrow rock passage. Next, Sandstone Falls spills through varied, unique rock formations. At 15 feet, it’s the smallest of the ﬁve, but visitors can get close enough to feel its spray.

Finally, Rainbow Falls, a 35-foot drop, is named for the rainbows created by its mist. It features a viewing platform, but rocks and trees partially obstruct the view due to the falls’ angle.

Head onward to the Black River Harbor Recreation Area and cross the river on a 210-foot, wooden suspension bridge that leads to a pristine stretch of Lake Superior beach. Take the NCT south from the beach about three-quarters of a mile to get a better view of Rainbow Falls before retracing your steps.

River Trail

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

This 5.1-mile, one-way trek between the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls (near Paradise) encompasses all that both sites have to offer. In between, hikers experience a bit more solitude, along with scenic river views and wildlife sightings.

The Upper Falls’ allure is well-documented, as it drops nearly 50 feet and spans 200 feet across the river. From there, the trail meanders through old-growth forest, sizable cedars, and hemlocks as it hugs the river’s edge before ascending and descending several times. There are exposed roots and several staircases, but that only adds to the adventure.

The Lower Falls are a series of ﬁve distinct cascades separated by small, rocky outcrops running around an island. Cool off by wading just upstream from the rapids on the Lower Falls Island, which can be explored via a half-mile loop and accessed from the Ronald A. Olson Bridge. Look for designated wading areas to help prevent bank erosion.

The hiker shuttle service will not be operating this season. Visitors should be prepared to hike both ways (10 miles), to stage a vehicle at the end of their one-way hike, or to arrange for pick-up by a member

Above: Highlights of the North Country Trail Black River section, near Bessemer, are the striking Great Conglomerate Falls (top) and the wooden suspension bridge at the Black River Harbor Recreation Area (middle). Right: Deadman’s Hill on the Jordan Valley Pathway is one of the Lower Peninsula’s most beautiful lookouts during any season.

of their party.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE: The new 900-foot boardwalk, with multiple switchbacks to the Upper Falls, should open by fall of 2025. All other viewing platforms remain open and accessible.

Jordan Valley Pathway

This iconic loop encircling the Jordan River, with its many elevation changes, packs plenty into its 19.5 miles, including mesmerizing overlooks, scenic stream crossings, a cedar swamp, beaver ponds, wooded valleys, and a variety of wildlife and wildﬂowers.

While sections can be shorter out-andback treks, many hikers split the journey into longer two-day backpacking trips, spending the night at the primitive Pinney Bridge State Campground for a fee.

The hike begins at Deadman’s Hill trailhead off U.S. 131, roughly 11 miles north of Mancelona. Deadman’s Hill, one of the Lower Peninsula’s most stunning overlooks, features sweeping views of the Jordan River Valley.

Going clockwise will mean a slightly shorter hike (9.5 miles) on day two. After about 3 miles, the path begins descending into the valley, eventually crossing a bridge over tranquil Section 13 Creek, which in the spring has trilliums growing along its banks.

The trail then begins climbing to Landslide Overlook and a walk along the top of a ridge before dropping down to the campground. Day two begins with a climb to another site with valley views and the potential for wildlife sightings.

Highbanks Trail

Traversing through a canopy of pines and oak on bluffs more than 100 feet above the Au Sable River, this 7-mile, one-way jaunt west of Oscoda combines some of the Lower Peninsula’s most dramatic views. It can be split into shorter distances.

Iargo Springs, located a mile east of M-65 off the River Road Scenic Byway, provides access to the western trailhead. It’s probably the best place to begin the hike. Glance beyond a wooden fence to experience the first breathtaking Au Sable River vista before descending about 300 stairs to the springs, where waters surge forth from a mossy bluff to form several small streams.

A 300-meter boardwalk begins at the bottom of the stairs and winds among towering cedar trees. There are eight observation decks, some situated above the gurgling springs.

Two miles east is Canoer’s Memorial Monument and another can’t-miss overlook. The stone monument, topped by a pair of giant paddles, honors those who attempt the annual Au Sable River Canoe Marathon, a 120-mile race from Grayling to Oscoda.

Roughly 2 miles away is Lumberman’s Monument, a 14-foot bronze statue honoring lumber-era workers. The area has additional historical exhibits, and more observation

decks high above the river, as well as about a 260-step stairway descending to the Au Sable’s banks.

Sand Dune Overlook, providing the trail’s most jaw-dropping sunset views, is just past Lumberman’s Monument. Horseshoe Island and most of Cooke Dam Pond are visible. The journey ends at Sawmill Point, where hikers can celebrate their Pure Michigan adventures.

PLAN IT!

North Country Trail Black River Section northcountrytrail.org/trail/michigan/nmk River Trail, Tahquamenon Falls State Park dnr.state.mi.us/tahquamenonfalls

Jordan Valley Pathway michigantrailmaps.com/jordanvalleypathway

Highbanks Trail oscoda.com/project/highbanks-trail-area

Below: Stunning sand dunes some 100 feet above the scenic Au Sable River provide amazing sights along the Highbanks Trail near Lumberman’s Monument, west of Oscoda.

With most of the Mackinaw City shops, restaurants, and ferry action on the Lake Huron side of I-75, the Lake Michigan side of town often gets overlooked by visitors because the busy highway leading to the Mackinac Bridge divides the town in two.

So, take some time to head west. There are some neat spots on the less-traveled Emmet County side of I-75 that I recommend you check out while visiting, especially if you’ve spent time in crowded Mackinaw City before, which is in Cheboygan County.

• Visit Colonial Michilimackinac. “It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that transports you back to the 1770s,” says Dominick Miller, chief of marketing for the Mackinac State Historic Parks. “As we gear up for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, you’ll find that your American Revolution begins here. When you walk through the site you’ll encounter voyageurs, civilian merchants, Native Americans, British soldiers, and others. World-class exhibits exploring the archaeological process, slavery at the Straits, the French experience at Mackinac, soldier life, and civilian life await you in each of the 13 reconstructed buildings.”

What’s New: There’s a completely renovated Visitor’s Center under the Mackinac Bridge, a redesigned museum store, and a new patio. Miller recommends planning two

Beyond Main Street

Leave the crowds behind and explore these less-visited attractions located on Mackinaw City’s west side

BY Ron Garbinski

hours to interact with the exhibits, engaging activities, and events scheduled throughout the day. Everyone will love the frequent cannon and musket demonstrations. mackinacparks.com

• Sneak away to the Heritage Village and Park. Mackinaw Area Historic Society Heritage Village volunteer Karla Wolfe says that at the park, “you can get away from the busy retail center of town and relax, enjoy nature, and learn about area history from the time period 1880-1918.” You can tour the village, play on the swings, toss horseshoes, visit the gardens, hike through the adjoining May Woods (10 trails spanning more than 3.5 miles) to view the vernal pools, or check out the shorter nature and art trails. Leashed pets are welcome on the grounds. “Bring a picnic lunch or your paints or musical instrument, and spend a couple hours,” Wolfe adds.

Left: It’s fun to stop along the quartermile drivable circle at Heritage Village and Park, and read about the historic structures. Above: World-class exhibits and 13 reconstructed buildings are the highlights at Colonial Michilimackinac.

The 143-acre village includes a quarter-mile drivable circle with historic interpretive signs at a variety of authentic old structures; a nature center; a large, covered area with picnic tables and checkers games; and more. The annual Mackinaw Area Historic Festival, with old-time baseball games, returns July 26.

Wolfe says the society is working on a recreated railroad depot and expanding the

nature center to include a separate building that will focus on regional birds, in conjunction with the nearby With Feathers bird rehabilitation center and the Mackinac Straits Area Raptor Watch. mackinawhistory.org

• Ride the scenic North Western State Trail. It’s one of my favorite bike routes, and starts below an I-75 overpass. The trail heads 32 miles, mostly on a flat, crushed limestone rail-to-trail route, into Petoskey. The first 10 miles or so are fairly wooded and secluded. The ride (or hike) can be divided into shorter, out-and-back, traffic-free rides for the entire family. trailscouncil.org

• Stargaze at Headlands International Dark Sky Park. While you can visit 24/7, this place starts rocking later in the afternoon, when the popular gift shop and event center opens (seasonal hours). I’ve enjoyed meeting new friends there when the large, sloped outdoor amphitheater, overlooking a western Lake Michigan bay, begins to fill up as the sun sets and star lovers settle in with lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks for some heavenly views — especially when the Milky Way (just stunning!) is visible in the summer and when meteor showers occur.

The park has 5 miles of trails through its 600 acres of old growth forests, plus 2 miles

of undeveloped coastline, and you can take a nice walk along the lakefront for dark-sky viewing. Seasonal programs run mid-May through mid-October. Few astronomer types show up in colder months.

While Headlands doesn’t offer overnight camping, the nearby Wilderness State Park does, and its Big Stone Bay lakefront campsites include wonderful views of the dark sky and Northern Lights. Wilderness, among my favorite state parks, has 26 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and is an awesome place to set up base camp (reserve early!) for a northern Michigan getaway. midarkskypark. org michigan.gov/wilderness

• Climb the McGulpin Point Lighthouse. If you’re a lighthouse lover like me, you’ll appreciate a visit to this historic site, which dates back to 1869. From mid-May through mid-October, you can climb the short light tower; browse the gift shop; explore the grounds, which feature numerous historical markers; and hike a discovery trail leading to the shoreline for some full-length photos of the Mackinac Bridge. On our visit, my watercolor artist wife and I spent time lounging in our camp chairs, enjoying a picnic lunch while she painted the rocky beach and bridge scene as we relaxed to the Pure Michigan sounds of the surf.

Emmet County purchased the lighthouse in 2008 from private owners who used it as their home. It was renovated to its historic condition dating back to about 1906, when it was decommissioned. An attached apartment is available to reserve for a Mackinaw City stay. mcgulpinpoint.org

At the 1869 McGulpin Point Lighthouse, visitors can climb the short light tower.

spot for sky lovers and also offers rentable interior and patio space for private events and programs.

Above:

Below: The Headlands International Dark Sky Park is a popular

WATERWAYS

 Classic Layout: The William Watson-designed Belvedere Golf Club in Charlevoix celebrates its 100th anniversary this year by hosting the Michigan Amateur Championship in June for the 41st time. Belvedere also has hosted national hickory golf events since 2006 and has become one of America’s top hickory courses. The “gotta-play” course, which has been undergoing a number of restorations since 2016, is ranked among Golf Digest magazine’s America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses, GOLF magazine’s Top 100 Courses You Can Play in the U.S., and Golfweek’s Top 200 Classic Courses. Many top golf champions who’ve played the course consider the 16th hole the best par-4 in America. belvederegolfclub.com

 Woods and Water: A beautiful hike southwest of Mesick consists of the North Country Trail on the west side of the Manistee River and the Manistee River Trail on its east side, forming a roughly 21-mile loop that can be accessed from four trailheads or divided into shorter distances. The loop winds through pine groves, hardwoods, cedar swamps, and open fields, and it hugs the river’s edge at times. It takes hikers to bluffs 200 feet above the water in some sections, while also crossing several creeks. A footbridge along the trail spans a series of small waterfalls. The NCT section is more rugged and hilly. fs.usda.gov/recarea/hmnf

STAFF PICKS

Six to Try

From road trips and hikes to wine-tasting stops and star shows, these northern Michigan outings rank high on our list

 Hit the Trail: Copper Harbor’s fabulous trail system includes the multi-use (on foot or by bike) Keweenaw Point Trail, with a difficulty rating of moderate. The scenic 17.7-mile out-and-back loop starts in town, which is regarded as the gateway to Isle Royale National Park, and rolls past Lake Fanny Hooe and historic Fort Wilkins State Park, and then beyond to Keweenaw Point. The Copper Harbor Trail Club (copperharbortrails.com) can suggest lots of other great biking routes. This adventure could be an energizing stop along a Lake Superior Circle Tour. For other trails and a digital circle tour guide, visit lakesuperiorcircletour.info/lake-superior-hiking-trails/

 Star Shows & Exhibits: The top reasons to visit the Besser Museum in Alpena? How about world-renowned artists such as Renoir, Picasso, Chihuly, and Cezanne in an impressive, rotating fine art gallery; a digitized star theater with weekend sky shows and other presentations; and the new Discover Northeast Michigan History Exhibit, “From the Big Bang to Big Industry,” featuring 12 immersive displays chronicling northeast Michigan heritage dating back 10,000 years. There’s also an interesting collection of permanent exhibits that make this center of inspiration a real winner. bessermuseum.org

 Bubble-licious: Suttons Bay-based Mawby wines has introduced an alcoholfree bubbly. Its new Safe Sex, a non-alcoholic brut rose, debuted earlier this year. “Our brand is about fun and breaking down the barriers. Bubbly shouldn’t be stuffy or formal. It’s celebratory,” co-owner Mike Laing says. “Many people can’t drink due to medical reasons, or they just don’t want to drink or are taking a break from alcohol.” Safe Sex is a spin-off of their popular Sex, but without the alcohol. Laing says the taste difference between the two is “subtle; they’re intended to be in the same ‘family’ of wine, stylistically.” Laing and his brother, Peter, also manage their own brand called bigLittle Wines, which is located on the same property as Mawby. mawby.wine and biglittlewines.com

 Epic Road Trip: The 1,300-mile Lake Superior Circle Tour is an incredible international bucket list trek along the big lake’s Upper Peninsula, northern Wisconsin, eastern Minnesota, and southern Ontario shorelines. It’s best to start in Sault Ste. Marie and venture west to explore the amazing must-see stops, historical sites, small towns, outdoor activities, and natural wonders (Grand Marais sand dunes are pictured here) on this unforgettable Up North dream journey. The folks at the Upper Peninsula Travel and Recreation Association (UPTRA) have developed an excellent itinerary for energetic vacationers looking to spend a recommended nine to 14 days exploring Lake Superior’s boundaries, which they described in a recent blog — complete with tips, accommodation suggestions, sightseeing ideas, and more. For shorter outings, UPTRA also offers ideas for visiting eastern, central, and the western U.P. uptravel.org/blog

PAGE-TURNER

Shades of Mackinac

A mother-daughter duo creates a popular island coloring/activity book for all ages

BY Megan Swoyer

With “Mindful Mackinac,”

Jennifer Wohletz and her artist daughter, Natalia, provide an insiders’ look at the Upper Peninsula’s Mackinac Island — and invite visitors to pack their crayons and colored pencils to capture this slice of paradise’s most iconic sites. Beyond pages that feature everything from the Grand Hotel to the island’s historic lilacs, the coloring book also challenges Mackinac lovers to head out on scavenger hunts and take on crossword or word-search puzzles.

“We have a cottage here on the island and we’re always asked, What do you do here other than stroll Main Street and eat fudge?” says Jennifer Wohletz, a professional photographer who also runs the Milfordand Mackinac Island-based publishing company called Mackinac Memories (mackinacislandmemories.com).

Natalia, on the other hand, is a printmaker and owns a gallery and frame shop, Main Street Art, in Milford. Together, the two published “Mindful Mackinac” one year ago. So far, they report that sales have been brisk. Michigan Blue magazine sat down with Jennifer to find out how to use the book, and discover which color you’ll need a lot of if you’re going to do the pages justice.

Michigan Blue: Since everyone asks you about things to do on Mackinac besides eat fudge and check out Main Street, what’s your response and how does that play into your book? Jennifer Wohletz: We tell them what we do with our guests when they come to visit — where we tour and what our favorite places are. All of those locales and diversions are showcased in the book.

MB: Who drew the images on the pages?

JW: Natalia. As an artist and printmaker (Peninsula Prints, peninsula-prints.com), she hand-drew the line drawings digitally, based on my photos.

MB: What do people like most about the book? JW: It’s for all ages and it gives you fun facts about the island.

MB: Tell us about the photo scavenger hunts.

JW: You can create teams, break up in two groups, then race to the destinations, take photos of them, and meet back in town or wherever to see who has the most, first. We’ve done that with our family and friends, and thought it would be a neat addition to the book.

MB: What are some of the coloring subjects?

JW: Lilacs, the Grand Hotel’s secret garden, the ferry ride over with the Mackinac Bridge in the background, the Round Island Lighthouse, Fort Mackinac, Fort Holmes, Arch Rock as seen from the water’s edge and looking down from it, geraniums, cottages, hollyhocks, monarchs, the Mission Point gazebo, sailboats, Sugar Loaf rock, horses, dock porters, the forest, wildflowers such as trillium and lady slippers, and even the Christmas tree on Main Street in the winter.

MB: What supplies do people need to color the pages?

JW: You can use colored pencils or crayons. Coloring within the lines is not required!

MB: I’d think this would be the perfect family activity while on the island.

JW: Definitely. Parents and grandparents buy the book in multiples, for everyone they’re traveling with. They do the scavenger hunts and they go to specific places in the book and color the subject together, as a family. They’re essentially coloring their way around the island.

MB: I bet the simple act of coloring, no matter what your age is, can take you down memory lane and make you feel like a kid again, right?

JW: Yes! I loved to color as a child. I had the large box of crayons with the little sharpener in it. My favorite colors were all the blue ones — and, by the way, you’ll need a lot of different blues to create the gorgeous Straits of Mackinac waters in the book.

Natalia loved to color, too; she would sort her crayons and colored pencils by rainbow colors. She was very organized, and still is!

MB: What’s next for you and Natalia regarding this concept?

JW: Postcards! We’re going to make individual cards and sets of coloring postcards.

Find It

“Mindful Mackinac” (published by Mackinac Memories) is an 8- x 10-inch soft cover book that retails for $12.95. It features fun facts written by Michigan native and author Sue Allen, 33 coloring pages, three photo scavenger hunts, seven word searches, and a crossword puzzle. Order it at mackinacislandmemories.com or purchase it at Main Street Art in Milford. You can also buy it on Mackinac Island at Little Luxuries, the Island Bookstore, and the Grand Hotel. The company’s new Iconic Scenes of Mackinac Island jigsaw puzzle is also available at Main Street Art or online.

Jennifer and Natalia Wohletz

wish you were here.

It’s not just a destination – it’s the destination. See why The Wall Street Journal featured Traverse City as one of “The 10 Best Places to Go in 2025”.

Stratford Upon the St. Clair?

BY Bill Semion

There’s an oft-quoted line from Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”: “We are such stuff as dreams are made on.”

As founder and executive director of three live theaters along the St. Clair River, Kathy Vertin, from the riverfront town of St. Clair in St. Clair County, is making dreams come true in her hometown

Thumbcoast Theaters’ founder hopes the riverfront will become Michigan’s live performance hub

and neighboring Marine City. She firmly believes the riverfront between St. Clair and Marine City should be home to Michigan’s version of Ontario’s Stratford Festival.

In pursuit of her dream, Vertin is promoting Thumbcoast Live Theaters, three regional stages that are just one step below equity houses like Detroit’s Fisher Theatre and the Detroit Opera House. Thumbcoast

is home to musicals, plays, and year-round events that feature paid actors and staff, and it also runs an academy for young actors.

After her husband, Tom, sold his business in 2007, they semi-retired to nearby Harsens Island. But it seems the acting and producing bug she was bitten by in college still needed scratching; she discovered her love of the stage was still calling.

WATERWAYS

“We got a little restless and we went to this theater (The Encore Musical Theatre Co. in Dexter). The town was hopping, so I wanted to do the same thing in our community. My question was, How do we jump-start this to make it a reason more people want to come here?” Vertin says.

Her efforts began in a vacant storefront, which became what is now Marine City’s Snug Theatre in 2013. In one year, the word was out and the little 100-seat house, she says, was bursting at the seams. Just down the street, she found a historic bank building that they transformed into the Riverbank Theatre, with 180 seats, the following year.

“In 2015, we added an academy for students in K-8th grade (they now serve students through 12th grade). Students normally don’t get exposed to theater until high school. Tom and I sustained the theaters to get them launched. By the end of 2015, they were self-sustaining and we put them into nonprofit status,” she recalls. Still, her dream hadn’t reached its final scene.

“With our board of directors, we did some higher-level visioning. I thought this could be the same kind of modeling as the Stratford Festival in Ontario,” Vertin says. “With community theater, you tend to audition within your community. Often everyone who auditions gets cast, in order to draw a bigger audience. At the other end of the spectrum is equity theaters and professional touring groups. We’re a regional non-equity house and we audition and cast actors from all over Michigan and out of state. We audition, we cast, and we pay our actors. Most of the actors have day jobs but really love to act. It gives them an outlet for their craft, or (an opportunity) to discover latent skills,” she says.

In 2023, her dream expanded yet again. Thumbcoast landed $4 million in mostly local donations and, before long, a third venue was on the way.

“We built a new 370-seat venue, The Boardwalk. It’s a dream come true for all of us. The community really got behind us. It was like they were saying they’re glad to have this in our community and want more of it,” she says.

In 2019, Thumbcoast Live Theaters generated 19,000 ticket sales. Last season, ticket sales reached 30,000. With the 2025 season featuring six productions, including musicals such as “Annie” and “Camelot,” and comedies like “9 to 5” and “A Nice Family Gathering,” the five-year goal is to reach 100,000 ticket sales.

pages,

a great show last season. The Riverbank Theatre in Marine City is a former bank building. The Boardwalk Theatre in St. Clair accommodates about 370 guests. The 100-seat Snug Theatre in Marine City was the first of the three to open, in 2013.

Backing it all up is the Performing Arts Academy, which is headed by actor, director, singer, and educator Stephanie Graham. The academy has been reaching young talent for about 10 years, and welcomes close to 200 students annually.

“A lot of our students are from St. Clair County, but over the summer some have traveled from other counties nearby,” Graham says. “We have classes that are typically six weeks long, and at the end we do a presentation.

“ ‘Annie’ will be an opportunity for students to audition for the main stage,” she continues. “The more experience they have in the academy, the more they’re considered (for bigger roles).”

“This year is the first time we have all three venues operating simultaneously,” Vertin adds. “We do it all with a team of five full-time (employees), and we subcontract in a lot of our actors and techs. No wonder we’re tired! To everyone who asks, When are you going to retire?, I say, What am I going to do? I’m having a ball,” she laughs.

Plan It!

Thumbcoast Live Theaters is presenting six productions plus a number of special events in 2025 at the Snug, Riverbank, and Boardwalk theaters. Tickets are available online through thumbcoasttheaters.com, or at the box office (810-248-1749). Stay-and -play packages are offered by Marine City’s Inn on Water Street, which also is owned by Tom and Kathy Vertin (810-676-5200).

Both

clockwise from left: The cast from “The Wizard of Oz” put on

DESIGN CURRENTS

Detail of “Evening Walk Along the Shoreline,” by Heidi Amenda Marshall. Read more about the artist in the Studio Visit story, inside this section.

STUDIO VISIT

BY Megan Swoyer

Striking Pastels

Heidi Marshall is on the stick when it comes to creating gorgeous art

Heidi Amenda Marshall hasn’t always been a professional artist. For years, she worked at advertising agencies as a writer and, eventually, as a creative director. She liked her job, but says thoughts of “Maybe I could be an artist” would tug at her regularly as she tuned into her inner voice, which was encouraging her to paint.

Growing up with an artist father (the chief editorial illustrator and courtroom artist for The Detroit News for 35 years, who also enjoyed painting and sculpting ) and after obtaining a BFA in fine arts and English literature from Albion College, it naturally seemed to be a matter of time before Marshall would dive into the waters of being a full-time artist.

“I really wanted to paint. I remember

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Bill Schwab

Both pages, clockwise from left:

“Sunset at Camp Petosega” emits a soft, hushed glow. “Winter Path” was part of the Enduring Brilliance Exhibition at the National Arts Club in Gramercy Park, N.Y., and was also on display at The Butler Institute of American Art in Ohio. The artist’s “I’m a Bluebird” was inspired by her feathered friends. She has bird feeders all around her home and observes them regularly.

looking out my office window some 25 years ago, when working at an ad agency, and I asked myself, ‘What am I doing?’ I finally gave up advertising and became a plein air painter.” That decision coincided with a move to northern Michigan in the late 1990s — and the rest is lakes, sand dunes, old barns, and snow drifts history.

For 10 years, Marshall painted and taught life drawing, literature, and writing (she also has an MFA in literature and writing from Wayne State University) at Petoskey’s Northern Central Michigan College. “That gave me an opportunity to be flexible and (have) time to paint, (and) painting full-time took over from that.”

Today, Marshall, who lives in Petoskey and works out of her home studio, is immersed in all things pastel (and sometimes gouache). “Actually, I’ve never met a medium I haven’t liked,” she admits. Committed mostly to plein air painting, Marshall has found that she loves working with pastels. “It’s a superior medium for painting outside, because with pastels you don’t mix colors and then apply them; you mix right on the paper. When I’m outside, I’m aware of the light, the sun, and the time I have to beat the clock. I grab the pastels and react to what I’m seeing.”

Marshall finds it difficult to pinpoint her style. “I’m a contemporary impressionist,” she says, then quickly adds, “wait, contemporary may be the wrong word. I’m less of a realist and more abstract, but not totally. I leave the door open for different possibilities of expression that can’t be defined.”

The artist, who teaches a lot of workshops in northern Michigan, believes pastels have a prismatic quality. “They’re granular and catch the light, and it’s all about light when painting,” she explains. She also says that with pastels, works can be painterly or graphic, especially when drawing with them. “Pastels have dual possibilities,” she notes.

After she creates a quick value study/ drawing of the scene she plans to paint, Marshall will feather, scrape, layer, and blend her way to breathtaking results. Selecting “buttery” Schmincke and edgy Terry Ludwig pastels, she’ll use pressure or lighten up to create her veils of atmosphere, depending on what’s needed. “I dance all over the page (UART or Handbook sanded paper) and have immediate reactions, which is the best way to paint. When I see a scene, I want to get that essence of what touches me in a certain way.”

Marshall says she doesn’t believe in “rubbing the pastels” with her fingers. “I layer. It’s better to just acquire a light touch and be sensitive to the pastels,” she says.

Almost all of Marshall’s works are created plein air, but she admits that working in the natural elements is sometimes tough, and recalls a session where she was unknowingly set up in a tick patch. When braving the outdoors in the winter, the artist often uses a propane heater and foot warmers. “I’ve got it down to a system,” she says. If it’s too cold to paint outside, she’ll create small sketches from her car. “I call them steering wheel paintings,” she says with a laugh.

Why brave the elements? Marshall says it’s all about the force. “I get so much information and a spiritual quality working in nature. I tune into the energy of, say, a tree. It’s sentient — not just an object.”

She also finds inspiration for her poetry (Marshall writes poems regularly, and many complement her paintings).

Observing “My Garden,” a Marshall painting that uses springy green-golds and hushed violets to portray a misty dawn highlighted by hardwoods, evergreens, and distant brush, one can sense the artist’s passion for on-site painting. “That piece was inspired by a scene behind my

house. I was out there very early, in my pajamas, and used various techniques to get that mist.” One of the things she says she loves most about being a painter is deciding how to convey what she needs to express. “What I’ve discovered is that there are no rules. I’ll find a way to get that foggy, misty, nebulous look.”

The artist says she paints whatever touches her at the moment. “It’s whatever stops me in my tracks and gives me a signal that it needs to be painted,” she shares. And most of those subjects are right here in the Great Lakes State. “I love painting in Michigan. I love the land, the water, the seasons. Michigan has its own unique beauty and special qualities, especially in the northern reaches and in the Upper Peninsula.”

Marshall also adores birds. “I have bird feeders all around my house,” she says, while observing a yellow finch outside a window. “I once had a crow leave me gifts — little sparkly things, like a ring out of a Cracker Jack box,” she laughs.

Favorite artists include Russian-American painter Nicolai Fechin and American John Singer Sargent. Spanish painter Joaquin Sorolla is another favorite; Marshall calls him “a gutsy painter.” She also loves the Group of Seven’s works. They were Canadian landscape painters from about 1920 to 1933 who painted together in the Canadian wilderness.

Like her favorite artists, Marshall’s unique approach conveys a keen understanding of color and light. “I’ll put bits of purple in a painting because of the influence of a violet sky. You can play and take liberty, and it still makes sense.” Her sharp use of artistic license is what turned the heads of The Pastel Society of America’s Enduring Brilliance Exhibition organizers at the National Arts Club in Gramercy Park, N.Y. “They contacted me because they wanted to show ‘Winter Path,’ one of my paintings that actually had given me a lot of trouble. It was insane; I wiped it out 11 times, but I wasn’t going to give up on it. It was a real honor to show there, as they have a long tradition of showing great painters.”

At the conclusion of that exhibition, museum staff from The Butler Institute of American Art in Ohio asked if they could display the piece. “That painting taught me not to give up,” Marshall says.

More Information:

Fifteen Marshall works will be on exhibit from July 1-15 at Three Pines Gallery in Cross Village. She’ll also have eight Lake Michigan works on display throughout the summer at Crooked Tree Arts Center in Petoskey. Marshall’s work has been featured in museums in the Southwest, as well as in Pastel Journal and Art of the West magazines. She’s also won an award from the International Association of Pastel Societies organization for a piece called “Summer Barn,” and was recently recognized as a Master Pastellist by the International Association of Pastel Societies. Marshall is a Department of the Interior-designated national parks painter and has permission to paint in any national park. She will be teaching five workshops this summer at the following venues: Three Pines Studio, Crooked Tree Arts Center, and Boyne Arts Center, Boyne City. heidiamarshall.com Instagram: heidipastel.

and sky tones.

Top: The golds, yellows, and oranges of “Sundown Across the Water” complement the blue water (Pickerel Lake)

Above: When the artist painted “My Garden,” she aimed to achieve a misty effect. Below: Heidi Amenda Marshall.

PHOTO OF HEIDI MARSHALL BY NATALIE STROSTER BAILEY

DESIGN CURRENTS

Find a recipe for the perfect sour cherry pie at: spoon.com/pages/ cherry-pie

With the National Cherry Festival (June 28-July 5) upon us, we present

1. AMERICAN SPOON’s Fruit Perfect Sour Cherries are preserved in a luminous ruby-red cherry syrup sweetened with a bit of sugar — and they’re made right in Petoskey, with Michigan Montmorency cherries! $13.95, American Spoon, multiple locations, spoon.com 2. Make a statement with BLUESTAR’s 40-inch Platinum Series Induction Range, shown in Ruby Red with stainless steel. Starting at $15,995, bluestarcooking.com 3. Paint the walls red with Incarnadine, a rich crimson hue, by FARROW & BALL . O’Leary Paint, Shelby Township, farrow-ball.com, olearypaint.com 4. The Girard Flower Table designed by ALEXANDER GIRARD for HERMAN MILLER is stylish and sturdy, and it’s suitable for indoor or outdoor use. $995, Design Within Reach, Grand Rapids, dwr.com, store.hermanmiller.com 5. This cherry-print fabric (named Flawless 01 Cherry) by STOUT is sure to add some all-American cheer wherever you use it. To the trade, Designer Furniture Services + Fabrics, Michigan Design Center, Troy, estout.com, michigandesign.com 6. TEAK’s Albert Barstool in Red Lacquered Beech packs a punch. $620, teaknewyork.com 7. Start the day with CHERRY REPUBLIC’s Lake Street Ground Cherry Co ee! $16.95, Cherry Republic, multiple locations, cherryrepublic.com. 8. Milk chocolate-covered Montmorency tart cherries (that are then dipped in a cherry confection) are a popular CHERRY REPUBLIC treat. $19.95, Cherry Republic, multiple locations, cherryrepublic.com

Fabbri

Notebook

Tips, trends, and tidbits for home and away

 Detroit’s Home Sweet Home Store

Gardner White, a furniture and mattress retailer, has launched GW HOME, a curated selection of stylish furniture, home décor, art, accessories, and gifts. The brick-andmortar location in Detroit will open on Woodward Avenue, directly across from Hudson’s Detroit. With approximately 15,000 square feet of store space, GW HOME marks Gardner White’s 14th store location in Michigan, and its return to downtown Detroit. gardner-white.com — Megan Swoyer

 Sweet Dreams in an Old Mansion

The Cartier Mansion has impressed Ludington passersby for 120 years. The stately, colonnaded neoclassical home was built by Warren Cartier, a two-time mayor of Ludington, and his wife, Kate, in 1905. Since

2005, the mansion has served as a six-room B&B, showcasing the original hardwood, fireplaces, and period antiques. “Our guests really appreciate the history and décor of this iconic place,” says Chris Simpler, who, with his wife, Jenna, have been the owners/innkeepers

 Seeing Purple Mission Point resort on Mackinac Island has waved a magic color wand in both its fine-dining Chianti restaurant and in the new, adjoining Lilac Lounge. The lounge, which offers a full bar and small plates menu, features new paint colors inspired by the island’s hundreds of historic lilac bushes. Visitors can take in beautiful Thibaut wallpaper and fabrics, including Peony Garden in Blue and Green. “The name of the wallpaper alone had me,” the resort’s Liz Ware says.

since 2020. The Simplers expanded the B&B in 2021, converting the mansion’s carriage house into the fourroom Carriage House Suites. The luxurious accommodations include fireplaces, underfloor heating, and smart TVs in a space originally designed to house automobiles, two horses, and a cow. Remnants of the building’s former life are preserved throughout, including original wood paneling and doors, a vintage horse trough, and the exposed joists of the hayloft, which contrast with the luxurious equine décor. “We really wanted the design to tell the story of this space,” says Jenna Simpler. cartiermansion. com — Amy S. Eckert

“It’s like bringing the colors and florals from the island inside!” The design team color-matched the lilac/ pink from the wallpaper and used it for the bar’s front, and the Stark carpeting (Antoinette Jardin) is also a head-turner. “The name speaks of gardens, and the greens and blues paired perfectly with the paper,” Ware says. Look for Thibaut’s Turtle Bay pattern on the dining room’s chairs, as the island is known as the “Great Turtle.” missionpoint.com — Megan Swoyer

Have news about design or décor? Send a note to MSwoyer@Hour-Media.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF GARDNER WHITE, THE CARTIER MANSION, AND MISSION POINT

Curated Window Treatments

Curated Window Treatments & Bedding

We thoughtfully orchestrate every detail, transforming your home with curated, bespoke window coverings that bring warmth, elegance, and effortless luxury to every space. Call to learn more. https://www.gotchacovered.com/grand-rapids/

When Sarah Barry and her husband, Tim, were looking for a new home three years ago, they had two “musts” on their list: expansive property and water. The couple, who have three sons, ages 8, 11, and 13, were living in Royal Oak, but yearned for space, woods, and water.

“We looked at all kinds of homes on water, but they seemed to be sort of on top

of each other,” Sarah Barry recalls. And then, one day, boom! There it was. “The minute we pulled up to an old farmhouse on Lake Orion, we got the chills,” Sarah recalls. “The house had been on the market for a while because it wasn’t in the best of shape, but when we stepped foot on the property and saw an old red barn and the water, we went crazy. We knew it would be perfect for the boys for running around and playing.”

Farm Charm

A historic home on Lake Orion checks off all the boxes for its design-loving owner

The landscaping, water, and the barn were the three most prominent selling features for the family. When the couple entered the home, which was built sometime in the 1920s or ’30s, they immediately noticed the current homeowners had been in the throes of renovating many spaces, and had even taken some areas down to the studs. “The work they did was beautiful, but I think they were ready to just move on.

Here: Interior designer Sarah Barry arranges fruit and flowers in her beautifully renovated Lake Orion home. Inset: The Barry family.

Megan Swoyer

EXTERIOR PHOTOS BY Jennifer Cole

INTERIOR PHOTOS BY

Megan Elizabeth Photography

“I could envision what the home could be,” says Sarah, an interior designer who launched Inspired Spaces by Sarah in 2019. Once the family had moved in, they started work on the kitchen, primary bath, and laundry room.

Sarah began pursuing her passion for interior design at Central Michigan University, but decided to major in broadcasting and Spanish. Years after graduation, she again was pulled toward design and her love of textiles, furnishings, and interiors, which led her to take online courses at the New York Institute of Art and Design. “I also joined a business group last year called Interior Design Business Bakery (a 12-month, business-coaching program) and that was very helpful in learning about client service and meeting other designers.”

The couple contracted out the work themselves. “That was scary,” Sarah admits. She says her husband, who’s the CEO of Troy-based Lit Financial, told her, “You’re an interior decorator and you can do this!” The couple hired a neighbor who’s also a carpenter to assist with the renovation.

Today, the Barry family enjoys meals in a beautifully renovated kitchen and dining space. Here, the designer shares her perspectives on the kitchen renovations.

Footprint finesse: The couple decided to alter the home’s footprint to create an open space between the kitchen and family room. “A doorwall overlooks the outdoors and the lake, and I wanted it to be open so you can see that from the kitchen.”

Set on stone: “I really wanted to have some sort of stone or brick in the kitchen,” Sarah says. The couple ended up selecting real stone (Heirloom Heritage Blend),

which was installed in the kitchen and through a walkway that leads to a stairway and an empty back hallway that they use for extra seating when entertaining. “That stonework is a wow factor; it’s super heavy, so we had to add extra support in the basement.”

What’s old is new: “It’s an old farmhouse, so I wanted to keep it rustic, especially in the kitchen,” Sarah says.

Flooring flow: In keeping with the old look, distressed, dark, natural-wood flooring with wide planks works well.

Cabinet culture: Sarah worked with Acorn Kitchen & Bath (based in Pontiac) on the kitchen design. The cabinetry is vintage-looking but also more transitional and neutral. Sarah selected distressed gold-finished hardware from Top Knobs (myknobs.com).

Open to change: “We had so much cabinetry in the kitchen, because it’s so big. I thought, Let’s create open shelving to eliminate some of that cabinetry.” The family keeps their everyday dishes atop the shelves, which are made from old barnwood Sarah discovered at Reclaimed Michigan in Waterford.

Showstopper: Sarah put handmade Zellige tile (made in Morocco and purchased from ziatile.com) in the spotlight. “I splurged on that,” she says of the textural, shimmery addition that features natural imperfections and creams and grays, but seems to “change in color, depending on the light.” It covers the entire sink and open-shelving wall, as well as the bar wall and kids’ sink area above the microwave.

Straight from the Heart

Sarah

Barry’s lake lifestyle

Living on the lake is truly a way of life. Every weekend feels like a little getaway without ever leaving home. There’s just something about the water — the sound of boats in the distance, laughter echoing across the lake, the movement of the waves — that creates a feeling of peace that’s hard to describe.

My family takes full advantage of every moment on the lake. Early mornings are my favorite, when the water is perfectly still and the world is just waking up. My boys love to fish and will spend hours at the end of the dock, completely in their element. And I love getting my family out on the water — there’s nowhere else to be, nothing else to do, just time together, making memories.

Almost every room in our house has a view of the water, which is something we never take for granted. The family room is our favorite, with its large doorwall offering a picture-perfect scene that changes with the seasons. In the winter, when the trees are bare, the lake feels even more expansive; in the summer, it’s framed by lush greenery, creating the perfect retreat. We wake up to the sunrise over the water from our bedroom every morning. It’s pure magic.

Left: Barry splurged on handmade Zellige tile (made in Morocco). The shelving is made from old barnwood she discovered at Reclaimed Michigan in Waterford. Using real stone (Heirloom Heritage Blend) required extra support in the basement.

Top: Two of the Barry boys enjoy lakeside fun.

Beyond the views, we love the space our property offers. It feels like we’re up north, surrounded by towering trees and nature. There’s plenty of space for the kids to run around and play, but there’s also enough privacy to relax and unwind. On days when we want to be social, the lake life keeps us connected. When we’re in the mood to escape with a good book, it’s easy to find a quiet spot to do just that.

We’ve created so many unforgettable memories here. One of our favorite traditions is ending the night with a bonfire by the water. There’s just something about the crackling flames, great conversation, and the peaceful glow of the lake that makes it the perfect way to close out the day.

What makes our lake even more unique is that it’s one of the few where you can take your boat right into town. Instead of driving, we love hopping in the boat and riding into town for brunch or shopping. It’s those little things that make life on Lake Orion so special. — Sarah Barry

Marquette’s Shannon Kivi takes us on an Upper Peninsula journey with her favorite Sony camera

Text by Megan Swoyer

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Munising features breathtaking views in which sandstone cli s meet aqua waters. You can enjoy the vistas whether you're up close, like these kayakers, or hiking its trails along the rim.

Hungarian Falls, right outside Hubbell in Houghton County near State HIghway 26, is a series of three waterfalls located on Dover Creek. The largest drop is 50 feet (it's typically most active in the spring and early summer). Be sure to enjoy the moderate to advanced hiking trails along both sides of the falls.

 Marquette Harbor Lighthouse has quite a history. Originally built in 1853, it was replaced in 1866. In 1898, a barn behind the lighthouse was converted into living quarters for an additional assistant to the keeper. In 1909-10, a second story was added, and in 1965, it got a new color: red. Escorted tours leave from its museum entrance.

Black Rocks, near Marquette, as seen from above. Estimated to be about 1.7 billion years old, these rocks are located on Presque Isle Park's northern shore, jutting out over Lake Superior's remarkably clear, pristine turquoise waters. It's said the average underwater visibility of Lake Superior is about 27 feet. 

 Northwest of Marquette sits Big Bay, which is a haven of lakes, forests, waterfalls, trails, and more. Lake Independence is one of its stars. Fed by the Yellow Dog River, the lake is 30 feet deep, so anglers have good luck fishing for bluegill, brown trout, bass, walleye, and perch, while sailors love to cruise its waters.

When sunlight and water droplets converge you get pure magic, especially along the gorgeous shores of Lake Superior. The Upper Peninsula is a veritable pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, awaiting exploration. 

Those who are daring love to make a splash into the frigid waters of Lake Superior at Black Rocks (igneous rock called basalt, made from the cooling of lava ﬂows during volcanic activity) in Presque Isle Park, Marquette.

Shannon Kivi is a lifelong resident of Marquette. She uses a Sony A7IV camera with a variety of lenses. For waves, she’ll grab her Sony 70-200 2.8 GM II and her Sigma 150-600 Sports lenses. Landscapes and Northern Lights call for her Tamron 17-28mm 2.8 and her Viltrox 16mm 1.8 lenses. “My mom was always taking pictures of everything us kids did. We called her Grandma Kodak. I got the photography bug from her,” the photo artist says. Kivi shares that she loves to capture the storms over lake Superior, as well as sunrises, sunsets, and the Northern Lights. See her work on Facebook (906 Images) and Instagram (906_images).

Function and form come together seamlessly at this waterfront oasis

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Martin Vecchio

BY Tracy Donohue

Both pages: Whether lounging on a deck or turning in for the night, pretty Walloon Lake offers constant beauty for family and friends at this renovated home.

Construction and Millwork: Ben Percy, Percy Construction, Boyne City Cabinetry: Wolverine Cabinet Co., Royal Oak Drapery (Roman Shades): Harry Jung, Room Dress, Troy Landscaper: Robinson’s Landscaping & Nursery, Boyne City Woven Shades: Ralph Guthrie, Lake Street Design Studio, Petoskey

Leighanne LaMarre, interior designer and owner of Leighanne LaMarre Interiors in Brighton, had just completed a home design project for a Detroit-area couple in late 2021 when they requested her assistance with a vacation house they had purchased on Walloon Lake in Charlevoix County.

“Leighanne was so easy to work with, and we knew we couldn’t do the lake house without her,” the homeowners say enthusiastically. “She brought both houses together and made them feel like home for our family.”

According to the couple, their Walloon Lake home was built in 2008 as a guest house for the home next door. Coincidentally, the lake home’s original architect, Greg Presley of Presley Architecture in Northville and Petoskey, had designed their Detroit-area residence, so it made sense for him to handle the renovation of their new lake home.

Ben Percy, of Percy Construction in Boyne City, a family-owned custom-building company with more than 50 years of experience, was the contractor for the northern Michigan project. His highly skilled crew included his father and brother. “Ben was so organized and hands-on. He paid such attention to detail that we didn’t have to worry about being on-site (all the time), like we were able to do with our other house,” the homeowners say.

The welcoming home sits on a secluded lot that’s just over an acre in size and boasts 110 feet of lake frontage. During the renovation process, a 500-squarefoot addition was built onto the original 2,900-square-foot home, along with a two-story carriage house/garage and a breezeway joining the two structures. Keeping entertaining and overnight guests in mind, the thoughtfully designed property now has five bedrooms, a bunk room, and 6.5 bathrooms. The project was completed last year, in time for the summer season to officially kick off.

“As repeat clients, I know them so well that it’s like working with friends, but (I also had to factor in) that the aesthetics, function, and lifestyle are different Up North,” LaMarre explains. “I wanted their lake home to feel different but still reflect their personal style and love of entertaining. It also had to be easy-care and low-maintenance, due to sand and snow.

“Their lake house took on a sense of Up North nostalgia and a more traditional feel than their main home. In the lake house, we achieved this by fusing traditional (ideas) in a more designed and deliberate way, while embracing the water views from nearly every room in the house. We used warm white and wood tones, including old-school oak paneling, in a more updated, modern way as a focal point. We played with layering and texture, such as the blue patterned area rug in the great room, to give the feel of curated family heirlooms. Overall, it’s soft contemporary with a collected Up North vibe.”

The designer says she especially loves the home’s master bedroom. “It’s modern and cozy, with warm white colors and textures. The contemporary beige artwork above the bed offers juxtaposition against the traditional wall.”

The wife adds: “My husband and I are drawn to darker, more masculine, moody colors, but the house gets a ton of natural light, so it doesn’t seem dark at all — even the walkout basement.” She also appreciates the touches of blue in the house, which play against the neutral palette and sparkling lake views.

Since the property didn’t originally have a garage, the addition of the carriage house offered an opportunity to create space for the couple’s vehicles, and add an extra 1,000 square feet of living space above the garage. The second level includes a game room, bedroom, full bathroom, and kitchenette. LaMarre admits it was her favorite part of the project. “I always care as much about the home’s exterior as the interior,” she says. “The carriage house added a special architectural element, as well as function and privacy.”

As a complement to the renovation, the homeowners made improvements to the outdoors, with updated landscaping done by Boyne City’s Robinson’s Landscaping & Nursery. Overgrown plants were removed to enhance the property and water views, leaving room for picturesque birch trees and great pines to thrive. The

Opposite page, clockwise from

oversaw the interior design for her clients’ Walloon Lake home, which sits on a secluded lot that boasts 110 feet of lake frontage. There’s no shortage of natural light, including in a nicely appointed bathroom and the inviting dining area.

top: Leighanne LaMarre

homeowners note that during the clean-up, stone columns from an old hotel that previously was located on the property were unearthed and restored.

“We’re outdoor people. We love the lake, and skiing in the winter. My favorite part of the house is the back porch, which opens from the main living room and looks out at the water. It’s so inviting and relaxing for coffee in the morning or cocktails at night,” the wife shares.

LaMarre says the biggest challenge involved the addition to the kitchen, laundry room, mudroom, and ofﬁce — and ﬁnding space to accommodate the homeowners’ full wish list. “The addition needed to be extremely deliberate with form, function, and focal points that worked for the family’s lifestyle. I think we succeeded.”

The wife reﬂects: “This isn’t just a summer house for us; it’s a year-round home that we visit during all four seasons. The lake house is special for our family and guests. It feels like us.”

Above: Although it may be hard to get work done when at this beautiful lake home, this space certainly inspires one to get productive.

DESIGN SAMPLER

A few of interior designer Leighanne LaMarre’s favorite elements for fashioning lakeside comfort

1. The Henry Industrial Hanging Light by Thomas O’Brien, Visual Comfort, Leighanne LaMarre Interiors, Brighton, leighannelamarre interiors.com, visualcomfort.com

“(This light) provided the classic utilitarian feel needed to anchor the island and complete the look,” says designer Leighanne LaMarre.

2. Ovington Wallpaper, Schumacher, Leighanne LaMarre Interiors, Brighton, leighannelamarre interiors.com, schumacher.com

“Because of (the pantry’s) visibility from the main kitchen, I knew we had to add an element of playful pattern that would instantly add polish to the functional space. Ovington, in Stone, was the clear winner.”

3. Origami White, Sherwin-Williams, area Sherwin-Williams stores, sherwinwilliams.com

“When selecting our exterior paint color, the priority was (to make sure it) complemented and showcaseed the warm gray exterior window ﬁnish.”

4. Cheating Heart, Benjamin Moore, area Benjamin Moore stores, benjaminmoore.com

“Nothing says dramatic yet cozy quite like Cheating Heart by Benjamin Moore,” LaMarre says. “It gave us the perfect backdrop for the warm wood tones of the game table, desk, and woven wood window shades in the o ce.”

5. Oast Dining Table, Chaddock, Leighanne LaMarre Interiors, Brighton, leighannelamarre interiors.com, chaddock.com

“Because our goal was to give the entire house a good mixture of nostalgic and new, we wanted this table to feel like it had seen thousands of family meals. We partnered with a vendor based in North Carolina who was as enthusiastic as we were about getting the wood species, planking, and ﬁnish just right!”

6. Marabel Rug, Feizy, Leighanne LaMarre Interiors, Brighton, leighannelamarre interiors.com, feizy.com

“Early on in the project I fell in love with this rug during one of our vendor’s visits to our studio, and I just knew it would be the perfect choice to provide the foundation for all of our selections.”

Situated along Lake Michigan, this corner of the state brims with dreamy diversions

Right: With many of the luxuries one would expect at a hotel, but without the noise, The Fields’ new cottages also suit outdoors enthusiasts.

Michigan’s southwest region overflows with exciting places to discover this summer, from freshwater adventures along and in Lake Michigan to railroad rides, camping in style or relaxing at a renovated inn, exploring bridges, taking a hike on a “nature superhighway,” wine-tasting, or savoring amazing cuisine. What more do you need? Here, several Michigan Blue magazine contributors suggest a few spots for memorable experiences.

The

Fields of Michigan

Glamping in South Haven

THE FIELDS OF MICHIGAN — a glamping operation located on an active, 50-acre blueberry farm near South Haven — offers both tent accommodations and new cottages designed by celebrated local interior designer Sarah Sherman Samuel and the award-winning architectural firm dSPACE Studio. Guests can enjoy the facility’s many resort-style amenities, which include a pool (added last year), upscale dining, and massage services at the on-site spa, plus the idyllic blueberry fields. A complimentary continental breakfast is provided at The Willow restaurant and bar, as are a la carte dinners. The restaurant’s supper clubs are a delightful experience, thanks to chef/sommelier Mindy Trafman. Meals are served outdoors at a communal table, where guests can take in the magic of the surrounding landscape while meeting new friends. “Being able to welcome guests from around the world and introduce them to my hometown of South Haven has been a dream,” says founder Irene Wood. “Inspired by my family’s farming heritage and the cultural events and natural beauty this region holds, we’ve become a place where people can authentically connect with nature, as well as a venue for countless guests’ milestone moments.” Open May 1 through Nov. 2. fieldsofmichigan.com — Giuseppa Nadrowski

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE FIELDS OF MICHIGAN

Left: You’re in your own private, natural haven when glamping at The Fields of Michigan in South Haven.

Above: Visitors love to walk over the historic wrought iron and steel truss structures, such as the 1886 Charlotte Highway Bridge, at Historic Bridge Park.

Bridges of Calhoun County

Park It in Battle Creek

THE 26-ACRE Historic Bridge Park in Battle Creek is unique in the country for several reasons. First, it’s on the Kalamazoo River, where the 5-mile Calhoun County Trailway connects with the nation’s longest hiking path, the North Country Trail. And second, the park, which can be glimpsed by travelers crossing the river on I-94, has an unusual assemblage of five historic wrought iron and steel truss bridges featuring a variety of manufacturing techniques to honor the craftmanship of the past, says Vern Mesler, steel fabricating and welding instructor at Lansing Community College. Mesler — together with others who have worked to preserve the historic Michigan bridges, including the 240-ton 1886 Charlotte Highway Bridge at the entrance, which formerly spanned the Grand River — helps look after the collection. “Wrought iron was used on early road bridges because it was the popular metal to use, and it’s resistant to corrosion,” Mesler explains. The park’s oldest bridge is the 1880 Bauer Road Bridge, which crossed Clinton County’s Looking Glass River. There’s also a massive stone arch railroad bridge that’s part of the trailway. If you visit, you also can canoe or kayak the Kalamazoo River from the park and enjoy a picnic. Entry is free. calhouncountymi.gov/departments/ parks/historic_bridge_park.php

— Bill Semion

Great Granola

Book a Renovated Inn in Saugatuck

The Forest Inn of Saugatuck (the former Sherwood Forest B&B) is now open, thanks to renovators and owners Eric and Tracy Lanning, lifelong west Michiganders. “Our love of exploring and experiencing inspired us to create a special place for like-minded travelers,” says Eric, who with Tracy and

their construction team, over the winter of 2023/2024, conducted extensive renovations to a main house and the cottage. “Our biggest challenge was the sheer size of the project, combined with the aggressive timeline. We were two individuals — not a corporation — who happened to also be spouses and parents, pouring ourselves into a daunting venture in the faith that the result would be spectacular and worth all our exhaustion and expenditures.”

Beyond the gorgeous renovation and idyllic southwest Michigan setting, you’ll want to try Eric’s cooking. “Our house specialty, which we make only on Sundays when we have a full house, is Baked Croque Madame,” Eric says, describing the French loaf

that’s sliced and filled with ham and gruyere, baked French-toast style with bechamel, and served topped with a fried egg. Another guest favorite is his housemade granola. “We get a lot of requests for the recipe,” says the innkeeper, who shares it here. forestinnsaugatuck.com

— Megan Swoyer

Forest Inn Granola (Makes 16 2-oz servings):

3 cups whole grain old fashioned rolled oats

½ cup walnuts, finely chopped

½ cup pecan chips

½ cup almonds, finely chopped

½ cup pistachios, roasted and salted, finely chopped

½ cup raw sunflower seeds

1 cup coconut flakes, sweetened or unsweetened

2 tbsp. ground cinnamon

2 tbsp. cocoa powder

½ cup maple syrup

½ cup vegetable oil

1 tbsp. salt

½ cup dried cranberries

½ cup golden raisins

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Left: The Sherwood Forest B&Bturned-Forest Inn of Saugatuck now sports a really nice kitchen. Inset: The Forest Inn Granola is quite popular, thanks to its maple sugar, walnuts, pecans, almonds, pistachios, and more.

In a large bowl, mix the oats, walnuts, pecan chips, almonds, pistachios, seeds, coconut, cinnamon, and cocoa powder. In small saucepan, heat and stir the syrup and oil. Stir the warm syrup/oil mixture into the oat mixture until well-combined. Pour the oat mixture onto a large baking sheet and flatten into a thin layer. Bake for 15 minutes. Stir, bake for 15 more minutes. Stir once more and bake for 8 more minutes. Remove from oven. Sprinkle salt evenly over the granola. Sprinkle the cranberries and raisins over the granola, and mix well. Serve warm or cool; pour into 1-gallon plastic bag for storage in the fridge. Can also be frozen.

Rich, Fruity Flavors

Follow the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail

The Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail is where wine enthusiasts and 15 top-notch wineries come together to celebrate the finest grapes produced in the area reaching from New Buffalo to Saugatuck and east to Kalamazoo. Nestled in this Lake Michigan Shore American Viticulture Area (AVA), the trail is a collection of large and small wineries dedicated to crafting incredible wines with locally grown fruit. Sitting at the 42nd parallel and hugging the southern tip of Lake Michigan, the region is the heart of Michigan’s wine country, home to 90 percent of the state’s vineyards. Lake Michigan creates a one-of-a-kind climate

PHOTOS

COURTESY OF ST. JULIAN WINERY

Left: Winemaker Nancie Oxley and her fruity wines await visitors at the St. Julian Winery in Paw Paw. It’s regarded as the state’s oldest winery. Below: Winery cellar tours are a highlight of any visit.

Left: Note the rail car’s old-time appeal. Below: The Coopersville and Marne provides train rides between its namesake cities on tracks built in 1858.

that’s perfect for growing grapes. This “inland ocean” works its magic year-round, keeping brutal winter chills at bay and stretching the growing season well into fall. And thanks to plenty of natural rainfall, the vines thrive, producing grapes packed with rich, complex flavors that create award-winning reds and whites. Whether you’re enjoying tastings by the glass or taking a bottle home, the staff at each winery is ready to answer questions, catering to everyone from newbies to sommeliers. Tastings range from $5 to $15 for four to six samples, while glass and bottle prices vary by winery. miwinetrail.com

— Chris McElmeel

Historic Rail Route

Experience a Vintage Train Ride in Coopersville

HOP ABOARD the Coopersville and Marne Railway for themed train rides that bring history — and murder mystery — to life. The approximately 12-mile train ride travels between Coopersville and Marne on tracks originally built in 1858. It’s one of the last tourist railroads in west Michigan, and keeping the railway going is a labor of love that’s been embraced by a dedicated group of volunteers. “It’s something you get to experience, and I think that brings a lot of joy to people,” says Kyle Rosol, general manager of the Friends of the Coopersville and Marne Railway. The railway owns and maintains the train track and most of the vintage passenger cars. The Friends, a nonprofit group, operates the train rides and repairs the track and equipment, including renovated train cars that date to the 1920s and ’30s. Themed train rides depart from the Coopersville station on select weekends. The excursions, which cater to all ages, last about 90 minutes and feature interactive performers. Refreshments are served in premium class. Trips include The Great Train Robbery in June, a Murder Mystery in July, the adults-only Oktoberfest Express and familyfriendly Pumpkin Train in October, and the Santa Train during the holiday season. mitrain.net

— Marla Miller

A Walk on the Mild Side

Explore Ottawa County’s Shoreline

With jump-off points along the way, the Lakeshore Trail is a leisurely way to take in all the sights, sounds, and flavors of Ottawa County’s relaxing Lake Michigan shoreline. Bookended by Holland and Grand Haven, the 20-mile paved pedestrian path twists through rolling dunes and is shaded by a lush canopy of hardwoods. This super-chill,

scenic superhighway is a real treat for nature lovers. Start your adventure from the south at Tunnel Park or Holland State Park, where sandy paths and lakeside views immediately set the tone. Farther along, Port Sheldon’s boardwalk over Pigeon Creek features some postcard-perfect views of untouched wetlands. Kirk Park is a nice stop with its

sun-kissed beach, winding nature trails, and quiet picnic spots. Head north to Rosy Mound Natural Area with its spectacular forested dune trail. “West Michigan boasts a vast and expanding network of non-motorized trails, and the Lakeshore Trail is a true gem,” says Shannon Felgner, Ottawa County communications director. Just south, a detour along Butternut Drive heads toward downtown Holland, blending nature with small-town charm. visitgrandhaven.com/listing/ lakeshore-trail — Chris McElmeel

Left: The 68-acre Kirk Park near West Olive, off Lakeshore Avenue, allows explorers to walk the Lake Michigan sand dunes. Above: The 22-acre Holland Tunnel Park offers opportunities for dune climbing, swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MIKE LOZON

Set Sail on a Tall Ship

Capt. Cairns Awaits in St. Joseph

SAILS AND MASTS soon become props and the vintage-style replica schooner is her stage as Capt. Megan Cairns welcomes guests aboard the Tall Ship MJ. Clad in a T-shirt with the company’s logo and comfy jeans, she belts out, “Sail the seas, no other life for me … ” As waves lap the ship’s blue wooden hull, guests usually burst back with a version of “What will we do with a drunken sailor” as they begin a two-hour Lake Michigan sailing adventure from St. Joseph. The MJ, built in 1975, historically matches late 1800s models. Ever since Cairns shimmied the mast of a movie-set “Mutiny on the Bounty” replica at age 16, she was smitten with sailing. The MJ co-owner has more than 20 years of sailing experience, including stints on the Star of Saugatuck, Schooner Serenity, and Friends Good Will. After hoisting herself into years of boating experience, she scoured online ads for a schooner, then finally flew to Seattle and hauled one home in 2021. Tall Ship MJ hosts cruises, private events, and training programs. There are two daily trips available for six passengers from May through October, and guests can bring their own refreshments. After a safety talk and peeks below deck, guests “haul out,” gliding past two bridges and rippled sandy beaches. The fun begins as the schooner cruises past the picturesque red-and-white St. Joseph Lighthouse and into the arms of Lake Michigan, sails billowing. tallshipmj.com — Sherry Miller

Capt. Megan

on two-hour Lake Michigan

Below: PostBoy blends unique cooking techniques with Midwest classics for creative dishes that feel familiar but new at the same time.

Receiving High Praise

Unique Cuisine in New Buffalo

POSTBOY, in New Buffalo, launched by entrepreneur Ben Holland and chef/restaurateur James Galbraith, offers a playful take on New American food and cocktails. With outdoor fire pits, a welcoming patio, an interior inspired by modern Danish design, and a delectable menu with dishes such as maple tandoori chicken thighs and a prawn tiradito with leche de tigre and black garlic macha (Chef James’ favorite dish), it’s no wonder PostBoy has earned high praise since opening in November. “PostBoy was built to be a place for everyone, and you can feel that in the menu. It was a fun challenge blending chef-driven techniques with Midwest classics, creating dishes that feel familiar but bring something new to the table,” Galbraith says. Adds Holland: “PostBoy is the realization of a decades-long dream, and bringing it to life in downtown New Buffalo has been incredibly special. We wanted to create a restaurant that not only serves world-class food and drinks, but, more importantly, is just a really fun place to be.” See the restaurant’s website for its Abandon Ship guest chef dinner series, which welcomes top culinary talents from across the U.S. postboynb.com — Giuseppa Nadrowski

Above:

Cairns takes visitors

sailing adventures from St. Joseph.

BY Megan Swoyer

Ingredients for a good cookbook include a seasoned author, personal stories, and the ease of a spiral binding

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

Bear Nelson, Ciesa Design

When Mary Brady received her Certified Executive Chef designation through the American Culinary Federation in the 1990s, she was one of two women in Michigan to achieve that esteemed recognition. Married to Tom Brady, a restaurateur whose father owned the original Diamond Jim Brady’s on Seven Mile and Greenfield roads in Detroit, Brady most recently owned Diamond Jim Brady’s Bistro-Bar in Novi. When she sold it two years ago, she was happy to find more time for other interests she wanted to pursue, including writing a cookbook.

“It’s something I’ve wanted to do forever, probably most of my adult life,” Brady says. “I thought I’d get it done fast, but, as I got into it, I realized it wasn’t going to happen overnight. If it was going to be a project (I was going to be proud of, I realized I needed) some real commitment.” She worked with a large team of people, including a photographer who was involved in 12 photo shoots. “Those shoots were intense and were shot at my home (in Milford).”

Brady compiled 61 recipes and wrote stories and reﬂections to go with each of them. “Looking Back, Cooking Forward” even features recipes that were so cherished by Brady and her family over the years, they made it onto her restaurant menus. The large hardcover book features a spiral binding, which makes it very accommodating in the kitchen. (The book can lay open, ﬂat, making it easy to read).

“My goal was to be sure all the recipes were extremely easy to make. I want people to cook and not be intimidated,” she says. Recipes for everything from Caribbean chicken wings and prime rib hash to passionfruit tea sangria and chocolate fudge cheesecake pepper the book’s pages. Michigan Blue editor Megan Swoyer met with Brady to ﬁnd out what’s not in the kitchen at her Milford home, and what everyone should consider having in the place where they cook. We also discovered what inspires her recipes and cooking. The chef reminisced about her childhood days in the kitchen with her mom, grandma, and lots of aunts, capturing the spirit and essence of good food enjoyed with family and friends.

We also share her favorite recipes for throwing together the perfect picnic, just in time for Michigan’s best al fresco season.

MEGAN SWOYER: When did you decide to become a professional chef?

Mary Brady: I’ve always enjoyed cooking; I was passionate about it (even as) a young person. When I started teaching at Schoolcraft College (in Livonia), one my fellow instructors, a certified master chef, said, “Mary, you should become certified.” So he and another man, certified master chef Dan Huglier, mentored and sponsored me. I think I was one of 16 in the world to be a female Certified Executive Chef. Those statistics have changed, thankfully.

MS: Any childhood cooking memories?

MB: I grew up in Buffalo, N.Y., and I cooked with my grandparents and various aunts. On Fridays we’d have perch fish fries. My grandfather and uncles caught the fish in the Niagara River, cleaned them, and then we’d have a fish fry with fish, chips, and coleslaw for up to 30 people.

MS: That sounds fun. What else were you observing as a kid when it came to cooking?

MB: One aunt would make stuffed breast of veal and all kinds of soups. Another aunt was way ahead of her time and created a food-to-go business featuring meatballs and marinara sauce. She sold out every single day. She also worked in her husband’s butcher shop.

MS: What will I not ﬁnd in your kitchen? MB: Okra.

MS: Where can one ﬁnd fresh shrimp?

MB: Gordon Food Service has shell-on American, wild-caught shrimp. Also, Kerrytown in Ann Arbor has an amazing ﬁsh market, and I buy from there when I can.

MS: What dried herbs and spices do you like to use, and what do you always have on hand?

MB: (I always have) my salt blend, which I make with Kosher salt, ground pepper, cayenne pepper, and granulated garlic powder (the recipe is in my cookbook). I also like to have ginger, saffron, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder nearby.

MS: What’s special about your chicken salad?

MB: It’s gently poached and shredded. Dried cranberries and toasted walnuts also make it special. It was so popular that it was on the Diamond Jim Brady’s Bistro menu for 20-plus years.

Certiﬁ ed Executive Chef Mary Brady created a cookbook ﬁ lled with her favorite recipes and stories.

MS: What’s your must-have cooking tool?

MB: My knives are my best friends in the kitchen. Some are handmade, purchased in Canada. When I was competing, I used Wusthof-Trident knives. Knives should be sharp and feel comfortable in your hand.

MS: Do you have any favorite pans?

MB: I love cooking in castiron. I love Le Creuset pans. Also, all-clad stainless steel or Atlas stainless — both are used in restaurants, and mine were a gift from my sisters for my wedding in 1985. They’ve been well-used and are ready for the next 50 years.

MS: What’s the lowdown on olive oil?

MB: All olive oils have their place in cooking. Less-expensive ones are OK for sautéing, but not for making dressings. I often sauté in half olive oil and half butter.

MS: How do you cook fresh green beans?

MB: When I’m cooking haricots verts, I place them in salted, boiling water. I undercook them and then I put them in an ice water bath, which stops the cooking process and preserves the vibrant green. They’ll be crunchier. When it’s almost time to serve them, I’ll sauté them in a little garlic and olive oil, and then top them with chopped parsley.

More Information:

To order Mary’s Brady’s “Looking Back, Cooking Forward,” visit chefmarybrady.com. The chef teaches cooking classes and makes presentations at area businesses. Visit Brady’s website for class information or follow her on Instagram at chefmarybrady.

Harvey House Coleslaw



(Makes 12 servings)

For Fred Harvey, a traveling salesman in the mid-1800s, the main mode of transportation was by train. Disheartened by the lack of good food along his journeys, he approached the Santa Fe Railroad’s management and got their approval to develop the first chain restaurant, Harvey House. The food was fresh, made by chefs, and served whitetablecloth style. This is one of the restaurant’s staple menu items and has been a favorite to recreate in home kitchens since it was first introduced.

Aunt Jo, my dad’s sister, would always bring this to a family gathering. This is my version of her Harvey House slaw. I suggest using a processor or old-fashioned shredding board for fresh veggies, although preshredded ones work well in a pinch.

Ingredients

1 small head of green cabbage, shredded

2 medium carrots, grated

1½ bell pepper, shredded, any color or combination

½ small head of radicchio, shredded

2 small, sweet onions, cut in half and thinly sliced (don’t shred, as the juice will overwhelm the taste)

1 cup sugar

Preparation

In a large bowl, make four layers of cabbage, peppers, onions, radicchio, and carrots, sprinkling each with sugar.

The Best Chicken Salad Sandwich, with Bacon and Avocado



(Makes four sandwiches)

lemon

½ cup toasted walnuts

½ cup of a high-quality mayo, or just enough to moisten the mixture

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 sturdy buns, such as sourdough or ciabatta

Dressing

1 teaspoon dry mustard

2 teaspoons sugar

1 teaspoon celery seed

1 tablespoon salt

1 cup white vinegar

¾ cup vegetable oil

(olive oil doesn’t work)

Preparation

Combine well in a saucepan, bring to a boil, and pour over cabbage mixture. Refrigerate at least four hours (overnight is better), mixing several times to allow the ingredients to marinate. Serve chilled.

This is simple, delicious comfort food. My Grandmother Smith was the first to introduce me to poached chicken tossed with a touch of mayo and a sprinkling of parsley. Over time my chicken salad has evolved to become a bit more “fussy,” but in an easy and casual way. Poach your chicken at just a simmer and allow it to cool in the cooking broth, so it stays nice and moist. Dried cranberries can be substituted for the cherries, and guacamole for the sliced avocado. There’s no need to add bread; it’s wonderful all on its own, nestled on a bed of butter lettuce.

Ingredients

1 pound raw chicken breasts

2 bay leaves

4 whole peppercorns

½ cup dried cherries

Juice of ½ medium

4 slices of crispy bacon

1 avocado, sliced at the last minute

Preparation

Place the chicken into a saucepan and cover with water (or chicken stock), the bay leaves, and peppercorns. Bring to a simmer and cook until 160 degrees. Cool. Pull the chicken into large pieces and toss with the lemon juice, cherries, walnuts, and mayo. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Divide the salad onto the buns, and top with the bacon and avocado.

Note

To toast the walnut pieces, heat a sautéé pan over medium heat. Add nuts and toss until browned. Watch closely, as they’ll burn the moment you ignore them.

Corn and Black Bean Salsa 

Ingredients

4 ears of corn

1 tablespoon salt

15-ounce can black beans, rinsed

4 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

2 scallions, diced fine ½ medium red pepper, diced medium

¼ cup chopped cilantro

Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

Fill a pot that’s large enough to hold the corn halfway with water. Add the salt. Bring to a rolling boil and add the ears. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook the

corn for five minutes, then remove the corn from the water and cool. When the corn has cooled, position each cob separately over a large bowl and shave the kernels off, taking care not to include any of the spiky cob itself. Add the rest of the ingredients into the bowl. Toss and season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate until ready to enjoy!

Note I like to keep the corn water to use as a vegetable stock. It freezes well for four months. Roasted red peppers from your pantry work well if you don’t have a fresh red pepper. A chiffonade of basil is a good stand-in for the cilantro, if need be.

Chef Mary Brady says to include two small sweet onions when whipping up Harvey House Coleslaw.

Poached chicken makes for a good chicken salad, Brady says. Corn and Black Bean Salsa is the perfect side dish.

One of the nation’s oldest private clubs is undergoing a stunning renovation

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jeff Garland BY Khristi S. Zimmeth

Here: The club mixologist is ready to roll in the completely reimagined River Bar, where he creates lots of unique and classic concoctions.

Just six years after the American Civil War ended, a group of Detroit businessmen and sports enthusiasts founded a hunting and fishing club on Harsens Island as a retreat from the growing metropolis. Attracted by the island’s fowl- and fish-rich waters, it was originally known as the Lake St. Clair Fishing and Shooting Club. In 1902, it was renamed The Old Club.

“The Old Club has been a summer haven for generations of Detroit’s most influential families,” says Commodore Sean Southers, the 153rd person to hold that position in the club’s long history. “Henry and Edsel Ford, the Dodge Brothers, and the Fisher family all belonged to the club over the years.”

Southers says the Packard and Buhl families, Steve Yzerman, John Wayne, Uncle Kracker, and Kirk Gibson are also among those who have stayed or eaten there.

The original hunting shanty was replaced by a Victorian clubhouse in 1887

and was rebuilt in 1926, after the structure was destroyed by fire. Over time, additional buildings, including summer homes, were constructed along the shipping channel. All reflected the Victorian aesthetic, characterized by ornate detailing, asymmetrical facades, and verandas reminiscent of the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, says general manager Wendy Anglin. Today, the 66-acre club includes 55 privately owned residences, a clubhouse, The Ritz (a 24-room boutique hotel built in 1917 for members and their guests), dedicated employee housing, and boathouses.

Southers discovered the club on a random boating expedition. “As a newer boater crossing Lake St. Clair one summer day, my wife and I came across the candy-colored Boardwalk cottages that form a gentle curve at the entrance of the South Channel,” he remembers. “The site was enchanting, with turn-of-the-century homes perched curiously atop wooden pilings above the water. Cruising by, with the beautiful blue water framing the view, the Boardwalk is the first hint of the beauty of The Old Club.”

Years later, Southers and his wife were invited to attend a dinner with fellow members of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club as part of an outing to the island. “We completely fell in love with The Old Club and, within the first year of joining,

Right: Several decades after being founded, the club offers all kinds of diversions, including swimming in its beautiful pool.

Above: With classic furnishings and quality millwork, The Old Club’s spaces are a testament to its original desgin.

we ended up buying one of those iconic Boardwalk cottages.”

Unfortunately, some of the Boardwalk cottages fell victim to a tragic fire in March of 2023. “The candy-colored cottages, stretching to the tip of the island for decades, were beloved landmarks,” Anglin says. “The loss was deeply felt by the community, as the structures were integral to the island’s historic landscape.” Board member Michael Badalamente, of South Channel Homes, has worked to rebuild the cottages that were lost, as well as working on the club’s ongoing renovation.

“Over the years, The Old Club has constantly grown, evolved, and shifted,” Southers explains. In the past two years, that has also included updates to the historic clubhouse, including a “completely reimagined” River Bar, “which now features an infusion of nautical chic design” as well as “nods to its unique fishing and shooting heritage on the St. Clair Flats.

“The enhanced views and direct riverfront access have made this one of the most impressive bars on the water,” he adds. His wife, Marina, a professional designer,

volunteered her services on the renovation, which has welcomed member input.

The club’s screened-in porch, which overlooks the St. Clair River, also received a face-lift with new screens, windows, and all-weather flooring and furniture. “It’s one of the favorite dining spots for members, offering a more casual setting with picturesque views,” Southers says.

Sevearl decades after being founded, the club, which currently has 167 members, has expanded its offerings to include not only fishing and trap shooting, but golf, tennis, pickleball, swimming, and more. What attracts members, however, hasn’t changed. The club, Southers explains, is a place to get away from it all. “Surrounded by the pristine, fresh water of the Great Lakes delta known as the St. Clair Flats, members at this exclusive, private club enjoy the simple life: playing, laughing, relaxing, and connecting with family and friends,” he says.

Anglin agrees: “The Old Club remains a testament to Victorian design and continues to be a cherished part of Harsens Island’s heritage,” she says.

Below: A 24-room boutique hotel that was built in 1917 for members and their guests offers beautiful guest rooms.

ANCHORS AWEIGH

Walloon Watershed prides itself on carefully curated design to evoke a sense of sophistication and nostalgia. Read more about it in Dining Out, inside this section.

Two decades ago, a creatively zealous man used his passion for brewing to transform the small town of Bellaire into a popular craft beer destination.

Like many brewing professionals, Joe Short got his start homebrewing. As a student at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, where he was studying industrial arts education on his way to becoming a woodshop teacher, he was introduced to the art of making beer. When he decided to leave college after his junior year, the Kalkaska native soon turned his hobby into a career. He worked at several area breweries before returning to northern Michigan to convert a century-old, two-story brick hardware store in downtown Bellaire into Short’s Brewing.

In the spring of 2004, the then 24-yearold sold his first beer — a pint of Huma Lupa Licious IPA (India Pale Ale), which remains one of the brewery’s top sellers. From the beginning, Short pushed the boundaries, often utilizing obscure ingredients such as licorice, blue spruce tips, peanut butter, and tomatoes, along with locally grown hops and malted barley, for what became his flagship, seasonal, and experimental beers.

Over the years, Short’s expanded its Bellaire footprint to include five storefronts:

Short’s Up North Stops

A Michigan brewing legend grows his distinctive beer lineup and expands his footprint to include five fun hotspots

BY Dianna Stampfler

a retail store, music venue, beer garden, and a second-level two-bedroom vacation rental. In the peak of summer, the pub can easily turn out 800 pizzas a day, along with salads, sandwiches, and appetizers to meet the demand. Short’s also acquired the 26-unit Bellaire Inn in 2022, helping to lessen the burdens of seasonal housing and workforce needs.

“Short’s is the backbone of the early success of Bellaire, without a doubt. It really made the village a destination and put it on the map,” says Jamie Creason, who has owned the Applesauce Inn Bed & Breakfast on M-88, on the outskirts of Bellaire, since 2010. “To this day, I have many guests who make Short’s their very first stop when they hit town. Rarely do I even have to suggest it; for the most part,

Above: The robust Hazy is meant for the hazy times between the Mitten’s four seasons. Top: Short’s Beer Garden in Bellaire features a music venue.

OF SHORT’S BREWING

it’s why they’re here.”

Short’s dedication to his craft has led him to develop one of the most celebrated beer brands in the Great Lakes region. But Creason recognizes that it’s more than just the distinctive beer that makes Short’s a successful leader in the regional business community.

“It’s the whole package,” she says. “They support all things ‘Up North,’ from local musicians such as Billy Strings, The Accidentals, Crane Wives, May Erlewine, Joshua Davis, and so many more, to the good food, communal seating, the beer garden, and events such as the original Short’s to Short’s paddle (now Paddle Antrim) and their legendary anniversary parties.”

As business continued to grow, Short’s purchased an old manufacturing building

on U.S. 31 in Elk Rapids in 2008 to handle an influx in packaged distribution, turning it into Michigan’s largest independent craft brewery. An indoor, year-round taproom called The Pull Barn was the next to open, accommodating the growing number of beer tourists looking for unique tasting experiences. The adjoining outdoor beer garden has become one of the area’s hottest summer spots to gather with friends and family, including well-behaved, leashed dogs.

In the fall of 2019, Short’s teamed up with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. to release the first in its series of seasonal Pure Michigan branded beers. Each is crafted using state-sourced ingredients from businesses such as Hop Alliance in Omena, Valley View Farms in East Jordan, and Great Lakes Malting Co. in Traverse City.

“The Pure Michigan series from Short’s has really put a spotlight on the agricultural contributions to Michigan beer,” says Brian Tennis, who founded Hop Alliance on the Leelanau Peninsula with his wife, Amy. “Joe Short was the first Michigan brewer to buy our hops more than 17 years ago, and we’re honored to be a source for locally grown hops in many of his beers, such as the Pure Michigan Summer IPA.”

In addition to its extensive beer portfolio, with favorites such as Soft Parade, Local’s Light, and Bellaire Brown, Short’s produces Starcut Ciders, which are made with Michigan apples, and Beaches Hard Seltzer cocktail-inspired flavors such as mojito, margarita, piña colada, and paloma.

The two Short’s locations are easy to visit in one day because they’re just about 25-30 miles apart, depending on the route (either way, one must travel north or south around picturesque Torch Lake). Both are also accessible by water, and are connected by the Chain of Lakes Water Trail, an extensive paddling route that traverses more than 100 miles through Antrim County’s rivers and lakes.

Those interested in a behind-the-scenes look at the Short’s operation can join a public tour offered between noon-4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays at the Bellaire pub. If you’re lucky, you might meet up with Short himself, who’s easily recognizable by his signature handlebar mustache and cheeky grin.

Plan It!

Short’s Brewing shortsbrewing.com

Right: It’s always a good time at Short’s. What was once the Bellaire Hardware store has been lovingly transformed and expanded since 2004 into a vibrant and quirky space for community gatherings.

Walloon Lake’s culinary footprint expanded last fall with the opening of Walloon Watershed, a fashionable eatery and bar.

Like many, including Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway, Meghan Thatcher spent her childhood summers on Walloon Lake. Magical memories of those family vacations led her and her husband, Matt, to invest in this thriving small waterfront community.

The Thatchers launched Walloon Lake Boat Co., offering tours aboard a vintage-inspired electric Duffy boat, in 2023. Last September they opened the doors to Walloon Watershed, a year-round restaurant with comfy yet elegant resort vibes that serves savory shared plates and first-class beverages, along with live music. Walloon Watershed quickly became a favorite gathering spot for visitors and locals looking for a distinctive epicurean experience.

Matt selects the wines himself and always includes a handful from the local Petoskey wine region, along with global offerings that he hopes will surprise and please his guests. Classic and signature cocktails are crafted with spirits from regional distilleries such as Foggy Mountain in Boyne Falls and Mammoth Distilling in Central Lake. Distinctive brews come from Michigan and beyond, including Million Dollar Dog — an exclusive Walloon Watershed lager from the nearby Mackinaw Trail Winery & Brewery.

The curated food menu encourages sharing, and charcuterie boards feature a collection of cured meats, cheeses, and seasonal accompaniments. There’s also a local smoked whitefish spread with crudités and crackers; and a trio of flatbreads like the margarita, BBQ chicken, and the Bee Sting, a Roman-style crust topped with traditional red sauce, a mozzarella cheese blend, and pepperoni with a drizzle of hot honey. A Walloon Watershed signature dish is the one-pound soft pretzel served with warm beer cheese, jalapeño honey, mustard, and cornichons.

The 2,700-square-foot restaurant is anchored by a 15-seat marble bar which, along with the various custom built-ins, was designed by Justin Sharer of Sharer Design Group in Plymouth. Interior

Savory Shared Plates

New year-round Walloon Watershed eatery and bar becomes an instant gathering place for locals and visitors

BY Dianna Stampfler

designer Kali Weber of Chatham House in Bay Harbor was challenged with designing the bar stools and furniture for the intimate seating areas sprinkled throughout, utilizing high-end fabrics and wallpaper from Schumacher.

Meanwhile, many of the rugs — some are more than 100 years old — found within the establishment are antique Persian, and foster a unique balance between elegance and northern Michigan rustic. Even a trip to the Walloon Watershed restroom is fun, as guests will find a collage of kitschy décor and design elements.

In the 10-seat semiprivate dining space there’s a 24-inch-tall bronze bust of Hemingway, designed by the late Martha Sulfridge of Boyne City. It’s one of a handful of tributes to Walloon Lake’s most famous summer resident that can be found in town. Many of these nods to Hemingway are being highlighted this summer as part of a new, village-wide progressive cultural project known as “Consenses.” Walloon Watershed is one of the featured collaborators along the self-guided art walk, which was developed by Sally Taylor (daughter of legendary entertainers Carly Simon and James Taylor).

“The owners of Walloon Watershed are the real deal — welcoming, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in creating something meaningful for the village and the region,” Hodge notes. “They’ve developed something special here, a place that brings real intention to the wine, spirits, and food program. The wine list is smart, the cocktails and bourbon selection are excellent, and the small plates are thoughtful and well-executed. The space strikes that perfect balance between elevated and approachable. It’s comfortable, welcoming, and elegant without being pretentious.”

Located a half mile west of U.S. 131 on M-75, Walloon Watershed complements the current village businesses that have opened within the last decade, such as Hotel Walloon, Barrel Back, and the Walloon Village General Store. Nearby long-standing establishments include the Vintage Mercantile, the Sweet Tooth candy and ice cream shop, and the historic 1891 Walloon Lake Inn.

Walloon Watershed shares a building with Iron Goat Coffee, Vilah Bloom, and Sweetwater Floral on the street level, with upscale condos above.

Plan It!

Walloon Watershed walloonwatershed.com

Both pages, clockwise from left:

Walloon Watershed’s charcuterie boards feature all the goodies (you can also opt for a local smoked whitefish spread that’s out of this world). Chatham House in Bay Harbor waved a magic interior-design wand in the intimate bar area. Owners Matt and Meghan Thatcher toast to their lovely establishment.

During warm weather, the two large garage-style glass doors on the north end of the building open onto a 1,300-squarefoot outdoor patio with seating for 50 and glimpses of Walloon Lake. They’re the hottest seats in town during the peak summer season.

“Walloon Watershed is exactly what this village — and the whole region — has been missing,” notes Challis Hodge, a chef and restaurant owner from the Cincinnati area. His wife, Lauren, has a family place on Walloon Lake and she has spent time there her whole life. The couple was married on the family dock, had their reception in the village, and still visit as often as work allows.

This summer, the historic S.S. City of Milwaukee, docked in Manistee, will be serving as a boatel through Aug. 24. Staterooms are either former passenger bunkbed berths or cabins that belonged to crew and railroad executives.

BY Ellen Creager

Overnight stays onboard a restored 1931 Great Lakes ferry, the last of her kind, bring maritime history to life

The first thing you need to know is that the S.S. City of Milwaukee, located in Manistee, is a boatel — not a hotel. Before you come aboard to spend the night, here are a few other fun facts about the ship.

Maritime history buffs as well as people looking for a unique place to spend the night

will be delighted to book a room on the boatel, a restored 1931 Great Lakes ferry. Guests will experience what it’s like to sleep in one of 16 staterooms, complete with the original oak paneling and brass fixtures. They’ll enjoy breakfast in the galley and savor sweeping deck views as they dream of what life was like on the lakes a century ago.

Luxury hotel fans may pause, because bathrooms and showers are located down the hall and shared with other guests. There’s no air conditioning or heat, no bar, no TVs, and no elevators.

“It’s not a five-star hotel; it’s more like a historical experience,” says Robby Laurain, executive director of the Society for the Preservation of the S.S. City of Milwaukee.

Part museum, part boatel, part haunted ship, the Milwaukee is a familiar citizen in the Lake Michigan beach town. Countless weddings, parties, reunions, and tours mean thousands of visitors have trod the six decks of the old ship, even though she’s securely docked and “hasn’t moved on her own power since 1981,” Laurain says.

The ship is 360 feet long — the length of a full football field. Once in a great while, impressive winds still can cause her to sway.

“I’ve been involved for 10 years and only felt her move half a dozen times,” Laurain says. “It’s cool, though. It’s like she’s saying, ‘I’m still a boat.’ ”

This year, the S.S. City of Milwaukee will be serving as a boatel through Aug. 24. Staterooms are either former passenger berths (all bunks) or cabins that belonged to crew or railroad executives (double beds). Rates are reasonable, at $60-$110 a night. Guests can come and go, and there’s Wi-Fi. On special days, visitors can take a guided tour of the ship for an additional charge.

“Your rooms don’t exactly have heat or AC, but they’re such sweet accommodations. It’s fun for children, priced appropriately, and you can’t beat staying on the water,” says Sammie Lukaskiewicz, executive director of Manistee County Tourism.

From the ship, you can see the sun rise, and within a few minutes’ drive are downtown Manistee, Lake Michigan beaches, and the Little River Casino. Hiking, biking, fishing, camping, and dining are all just a skip and a step away.

So how did the ship end up in Manistee? She retired.

The S.S. City of Milwaukee went into service on Lake Michigan in 1931, in the heyday of the great “car ferry” business. The cars the ship transported weren’t automo-

biles, but giant, fully loaded railroad cars. The Milwaukee, with her heavy steel hull and structure, could haul 28 to 32 railroad cars across the lake from Michigan to Wisconsin and back.

Eventually, accommodations for autos and passengers were added as an affordable way to cross the lake. But as the railroad car transport business faded, so did the ferries. When the Milwaukee finally ceased service in 1981, “she had a full 50 years,” Laurain says. She’s the only remaining ferry of her type.

In 2000, tugs brought the ferry down from Frankfort and anchored her in Manistee Lake.

Today, she’s most popular not as a museum or boatel, but as a haunted “ghost ship” in October and as a site for paranormal investigators. The haunted ghost ship is a major fundraiser. And ghosts are, of course, believed to be aboard — why wouldn’t they be?

Visitors claim to hear footsteps and other noises, and occasionally have seen ghostly apparitions. Its reputation for being haunted keeps the S.S. City of Milwaukee cheerfully afloat in the cutthroat tourism world.

The ship is moored just off U.S. 31, a popular west Michigan north-south tourism route. Manistee County has 26 miles of sugary-sand Lake Michigan beaches, including three beaches near Manistee. First Street Beach is considered the most beautiful, while the Fifth Avenue Beach has a Coast Guard station and lighthouse, and North Beach is known by locals as “dog beach.” All are worth a visit.

“Manistee attracts people interested in nautical tourism,” Lukaskiewicz says. “It’s a Victorian port city, so having a steamship you actually can stay on is really part of that, to see what it was like when people used the steamer to go across the lake.”

As for the S.S. City of Milwaukee, she’s lucky to have found a forever home in Manistee, although Laurain says it’s really the city that lucked out. “We’re very lucky to have her at all,” he says. “She’s 94 years old this year. All the other ships of that design are all gone now; even many newer ships are gone. She’s a national historic landmark.”

Book It!

S.S. City of Milwaukee carferry.com

Manistee Tourism visitmanisteecounty.com

In the Groove

It’s summertime, and the living is easy — and Mackinac Island’s nightlife is humming, too

BY Glen Young

When people think about Mackinac Island, their thoughts typically center on the family-friendly nature of the iconic vacation spot. While that’s certainly an important feature, the island also includes lively late afternoons and ample nightlife throughout the summer season.

There’s plenty to do after dark, both indoors and outdoors. From Stonecliffe up on the west bluff to Mission Point at the east end of the island, and everywhere in between, the sounds of summer keep visitors grooving.

On balmy nights, musicians set up on the porch or the sloping lawn at Stonecliffe. In

addition to the good tunes, visitors also are treated to gorgeous views of the Mackinac Bridge from the newly renovated hotel and its grounds, now part of the Pulte Family Charitable Foundation’s Humanitarian Hotels, where all profits benefit nonprofit initiatives in northern Michigan.

Closer to town, Grand Hotel, with its own commanding views of the Straits of Mackinac, offers multiple musical options. At the Cupola Bar, where cozy tables and classic cocktails provide part of the ambience, dueling pianos add to the atmosphere. Downstairs in the Terrace Room, dancers swing to the big band sound of the Alex Graham Orchestra. Next door, at the Jockey Club, more

piano sounds bathe diners in easy summer vibes.

Down the hill at the Gatehouse, also a Grand Hotel outpost, options range from karaoke to rock and roll, and even a Booty Night. A particularly lively draw is Hot Carl and the Cleveland Steamers, a local favorite known for sing-alongs featuring classic covers.

In the heart of downtown, Horn’s Gaslight Bar offers live music almost every night. Steven Moskwa, who with his wife, Patti Ann, owns Horn’s, says, “Entertainment has certainly been a big part of our business for the last four decades. Lots of good bands and musicians create fun times for visitors and locals alike. Music tastes constantly evolve, and we try to keep up with the times.”

Across the street in the Chippewa Hotel, the Pink Pony, another of Mackinac Island’s iconic watering holes, echoes each night with the sounds of popular artists such as Myk Rise or local guitarist-singer Gabi Bowditch. The bar’s outdoor patio also offers daily live entertainment each afternoon.

“The live music is very important to the Pink Pony,” says Brian Bailey, the Chippewa Hotel’s general manager. “It brings a vibrant energy to the business, whether it’s on our waterside patio in the afternoon or on the stage in the bar in the evening.” Bailey understands that live musicians are a definite draw, and adds, “Our guests appreciate the talent that we showcase.”

Classic rock music lovers can start the evening before the sun goes down with the familiar sounds of The McCartney Years, a Paul McCartney tribute band featuring Yuri Pool as Paul and his wife, Jennifer, as Linda. The band kicks out the jams five nights a week beginning at 5 p.m. in the theater at Mission Point Resort. Tickets are available on the hotel’s website.

Other downtown venues, such as Mary’s Bistro Draught House and Kingston Kitchen at the Village Inn, also feature live music. Visitors and locals also enjoy the Mackinac Arts Council’s Music in the Park, which takes place every Thursday for eight weeks in Marquette Park, overlooking the island’s marina. Local acts open for the main attractions, which this season includes blues impresario Nathan Graham with special guest Mary Kenyon, as well as the Jill Jack Band, the Luke Winslow-King Band, and others. There’s also a “Mackinac’s Got Talent” night on the main stage, showcasing the hidden talents of residents and island employees, who will be vying for a cash prize. Music in the Park is free and lends itself to family and picnic outings.

Another option for those who want to leave the bars is a Sip & Sail Sunset cruise on the Isle Royale Queen III or the Robin E Guests enjoy solo performers such as Paul Bedour and Mike Ridley on the top deck, while gliding beneath ever-changing skies to raise a toast near the Mackinac Bridge. Tours depart from and return to Arnold Freight’s Coal Dock.

There are more activities on the island, too. Haunted Mackinac hosts walking tours of the downtown area, during which guides unveil ghost stories, sharing the tales of who died where and why these spirits haunt this or that building. Crowds of several dozen can regularly be seen following expert guides, leaning in to catch every word of their spooky tales.

Another nighttime option that’s great for families is a sunset kayak tour, provided by Great Turtle Kayak Tours. Weather- and wind-permitting, paddlers venture through the harbor toward the east breakwall before turning back west and angling toward the setting sun, with spectacular views of the Mackinac Bridge.

Mackinac Island’s reputation as a family-friendly daytime destination is well-deserved, but there’s plenty of fun to be enjoyed after dark, too, from music to history, and much more.

Plan It!

Mackinac Island mackinacisland.org

This page: Pull up a bar stool at the Chippewa Hotel’s Pink Pony and you’re likely to catch live music on many evenings, including regulars such as Myk Rise. Opposite page: The Mackinac Arts Council’s eightweek summer Music in the Park series takes place every Thursday in Marquette Park. Here, the Wood Box Heroes entertain concertgoers.

A 30-second exposure

The South Haven South Pier

Sunset Sojourn G

Lighthouse lured this photographer to a nice fishing spot and a photo-perfect view

Clyde Brazie Jr.

rowing up in southwest Michigan, I developed a deep love for the serene beauty of Lake Michigan. From swimming in its warm summer waters to enjoying the breathtaking sunsets and fishing from its incredible piers, the lake has always had a special place in my heart.

My passion for photography began in 2010, when I purchased my first point-and-shoot camera. I used it to photograph both my fishing adventures and the stunning scenery around the area. The positive feedback I received after posting my photos on social media inspired me to take the plunge and invest in my first full-frame DSLR camera two years later.

After teaching myself the fundamentals and overcoming many trial-and-error moments, I started my business, Michigan Native Photography, in 2014. I chose the name as a nod to my Michigan roots and my Native American heritage with the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians. As the years passed, I explored different photography styles; eventually long-exposure night photography became my favorite.

One summer I visited South Haven on a

warm July evening to fish for steelhead off the South Haven South Pier. (Its lighthouse was first lit in 1872 and still is operational today.)

As I often did, I brought my camera gear along, intending to photograph the sunset. As night approached, the calm lake created the perfect opportunity to capture some remarkable reflection photos. I set up my Nikon D810 with a 24-70mm lens on a tripod along the shoreline and began snapping away.

In this photo, the 30-second exposure enhanced the reflections of the pier and lighthouse lights on the water’s surface. This technique also blurs the figures of people moving on the pier, creating a ghostly effect. Combined with the leftover glow of the sunset on the horizon, this photo easily became my favorite from that evening. I used a 30-second exposure at f/8 and ISO 100.

Whenever I see this image, it transports me back to that unforgettable evening on Lake Michigan.

Clyde Brazie Jr. lives in Watervliet, in Berrien County. You can see his photography at michigannativephotography.smugmug.com/. He’s also on Facebook at Michigan Native Photography, and on Instagram at michigan_ native_photography.

on Clyde Brazie Jr.’s camera enhanced reflections on Lake Michigan’s surface.

TEXT AND PHOTO BY

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