DESTINATIONS
Areas Featured
Frankfort • BENZIE COUNTY
Baldwin • LAKE COUNTY
Manistee • MANISTEE COUNTY
Ludington • MASON COUNTY
Big Rapids • MECOSTA COUNTY
Stanton • MONTCALM COUNTY
White Cloud • NEWAYGO COUNTY
Reed City • OSCEOLA COUNTY
Cadillac • WEXFORD COUNTY
• Spectacular 5 to 10 acre wooded parcels of land with rol ling hil ls
• Beautiful ly designed sites ready to build with electric available
• Not ready to build? Bring your RV, seasonal camping is permitted!
• Keep your toys where you play, storage building is okay!
• Easy year-round access with private maintained roads
• Conveniently located just East of US 131 and the vil lage of Fife Lake,
Minutes away from groceries, restaurants, gas stations and more
• Enjoy boating on Fife Lake, or canoeing the Manistee River and state land
• Starting at $159,900 I Easy Financing Available!
Venture
WEST MICHIGAN
As the first crisp breeze sweeps in from Lake Michigan and the maples and oaks begin to glow, West Michigan transforms into a painter’s palette as fall approaches. We are delighted to invite you to experience our region at its most dazzling.
Here there is a natural beauty that meets small-town warmth. Our featured counties — Manistee, Wexford, Osceola, Mecosta, Newaygo, Lake and Montcalm counties offer a treasure trove of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or soul-searching wanderer, these counties have something to captivate your heart.
Osceola County invites you into its peaceful embrace with charming hamlets and lush countryside. Head to the Muskegon River for some excellent fishing. Pine River Township’s state forest lands are a favorite for hiking, while Reed City provides access to the Rails-to-Trails path system for cycling enthusiasts.
Wexford County offers a perfect blend of outdoor escapades and cultural gems. Centered around Cadillac, visitors can explore Cadillac Lake State Forest winter ice-fishing at Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell. Don’t miss the Clam Lake Canal melding these two water bodies—a true marvel for nature lovers.
Mecosta County stands out as Michigan’s hidden lake-land gem. With over 100 lakes, it’s an ideal spot for fishing. Explore the White Pine Trail State Park or wander through Big Rapids’ historic downtown, enriched with local eateries and unique boutiques.
Newaygo County enchants with its endless outdoor opportunities. The national award-winning Muskegon River serves as a popular hub for paddling and fishing. The proximity of the Manistee National Forest provides boundless trails for hiking, horseback riding, or snow sports. The charming downtown of Newaygo offers an eclectic mix of artisan shops and cozy cafes — and The Dragon Trail.
Manistee County beckons you with its pristine coastline along Lake Michigan, historic downtown, and the Manistee River Trail. Discover the Manistee North Pier Lighthouse or relish the serene beauty of Orchard Beach State Park. This county is a haven for anglers and hikers.
Mason County sits on Lake Michigan in west-central Michigan; its seat is Ludington. Founded in 1840 and named for Gov. Stevens T. Mason, it blends forests, farms, and waterways like the Pere Marquette River. Tourism leads the economy, with Ludington State Park, Hamlin Lake, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse as highlights; Scottville is another key community.
Benzie County is a scenic county in northwest Michigan along Lake Michigan. Established in the 1860s, it’s known for Crystal Lake, the Betsie and Platte rivers, and access to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Tourism, outdoor recreation, and fruit growing (notably cherries) drive the local economy, with landmarks like Point Betsie Lighthouse and communities such as Elberta and Honor.
Enjoy the 2025 fall edition of Destinations.
Darren Iozia | Editor – Pioneer Newspaper
Michelle Fedder | Editor – Manistee News Advocate
Venture LAKE COUNTY
Lake County is a serene and historically rich region located in the heart of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Known for its pristine natural beauty, the county covers an area of dense forests, numerous lakes, and clear rivers, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. Established in 1871, its history is deeply rooted in the timber industry, which played a major role in its early economy and development.
One of Lake County’s most significant historical and cultural contributions is the historic community of Idlewild. During the early to mid-20th century, Idlewild was one of the nation’s premier AfricanAmerican resorts, earning it the nickname “The Black Eden.” As a haven for African-Americans during an era of racial segregation, Idlewild attracted performers, intellectuals, and vacationers who sought recreation and relaxation. Legendary artists like Duke Ellington, Aretha Franklin, and Sammy Davis Jr. graced its stages, making the area a cultural hub.
Restaurants
and Bars
❖ Chase Creek Smokehouse, Chase
❖ Pompeii’s, Baldwin
❖ Northern Exposure Café, Baldwin
❖ Club 37, Baldwin
❖ North Bar, Luther
❖ Loggers Landing Restaurant and Grill, Luther
❖ Brooks Corner, Irons
❖ Blossom’s Restaurant, Irons
❖ Oak Grove Taverns
❖ J’s Elk Tavern
❖ NA-TAH-KA
LAKE COUNTY
Nonmotorized trails
❖ Bowman Lake Foot Travel Area (cross-country skiing, hiking)
❖ North County Trail (hiking, biking)
❖ Pere Marquette Trail (crosscountry skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking)
❖ Pine Forest Pathway (crosscountry skiing, hiking)
❖ Pine Valley Pathway (crosscountry skiing, hiking, biking)
❖ Sheep Ranch Pathway (crosscountry skiing, hiking, biking)
Motorized Trails
❖ Little Manistee ORV Trail (motorcycles only)
❖ Little Manistee ORV Route (all off-road vehicles)
❖ Tin Cup ORV Trail (motorcycles only)
❖ Tin Cup ORV Route (all off-road vehicles)
❖ Lincoln Hills ORV (motorcycles only)
❖ Lincoln Hills Route (all off-road vehicles)
❖ Little “O” ORV Trail (motorcycle, ORV less than 50 inches wide)
❖ Big “O” ORV Trail (motorcycles only)
❖ Michigan Cross Country Cycle Trail (MCCCT): (motorcycles only)
Note: Most trail systems in Lake County have segments designated for specific off-road vehicles. In general, motorcycle-only trails have widths of 24 inches or less, ORV trails are 50 inches wide or less, and ORV routes are 72 inches or wider. For information about where to ride, including maps, as well as permit/ license requirements, visit Michigan. gov/ORVinfo or lakecotrails.com.
LAKE COUNTY
Snowmobile trails
Michigan’s state-designated trails are open Dec. 1-March 31, and grooming occurs when there is enough snow. Trail permits for the 2021-22 snowmobile season go on sale Sept. 1. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/snowmobiling.
❖ Northeast of the intersection of M-37 and West 3 Mile Road
❖ Northside of West 16th Street, East of South James Road
❖ Southside of West 7 Mile Road, East of M-37
❖ Westside of North Kings Highway, North of East F Avenue
❖ Located off 8th Street
❖ Off of U.S. 10 between Mack and Sheppard roads
Venture BENZIE COUNTY
Benzie County is the gateway to northern Michigan, offering a variety of recreational opportunities.
Get a unique view of the fall foliage on a chair lift ride at Crystal Mountain Resort. While you’re there, book your next trip to ski the slopes.
Stroll downtown Frankfort’s boutiques and stop in at one of the dozens of restaurants offering a variety of flavors.
Grab the family and head to the Beulah Fall Festival where you can decorate pumpkins and warm up with the soup contest. The following weekend, watch the giant pumpkin drop at Frankfort Fall Fest.
For those in your group who prefer the great indoors, take in a movie at the historic Garden Theater, an exhibit at the Oliver Art Center, check out the Cognition Science and Discovery Center or test the odds at the new Crystal Shores Casino.
So pack up your best flannel and cozy blankets and head up to Benzie County!
October events
❖ Oct. 4: Fall Fest in Beulah
❖ Oct. 4: Fright Night at the Cherry Bowl Drive In
❖ Oct. 11: Fall Fest in Frankfort
❖ Oct. 16-19: Frankfort Film Festival at Garden Theater
❖ Oct. 18: Peak2Peak Mountain Bike Classic at Crystal Mountain
November events
❖ Nov. 29: Holly Berry Arts & Crafts Fair at Frankfort High School
December events
❖ Dec. 6: Community tree lighting in Frankfort
❖ Dec. 13: Christmas Magic in Beulah
February events
❖ Feb. 14: Beulah’s Winterfest
BENZIE COUNTY
Only in Benzie County
❖ Garden Theater in Frankfort
❖ Oliver Art Center
❖ Gwen Frostic Prints and Studio
❖ Cognition Science and Discovery Center
❖ Benzie Area Historical Society and Museum
BENZIE COUNTY
Hiking trails
❖ Arcadia Dunes C.S. Mott Preserve
❖ Betsie River Pathway
❖ Betsie Valley Trails
❖ Crystal Mountain Resort
❖ Elberta Dunes South Nature Area
❖ Green Point Dunes
❖ Michigan Legacy Art Park
❖ Sleeping Bear Dunes
❖ Upper Herring Lake Nature Preserve
The Blue Flower Shed is open again!
The shed will be open Tuesday-Saturday from 9-7
You will find arrangements in vintage containers, plus ceramic fairy houses, and ceramic flowers for your gardens and flower beds!
New flowers everydayalmost everything is in bloom now!
Come and enjoy! 1955 Laurel Lane - just off White Rd. in Frankfort Look for the large FLOWERS banner.
Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/vbenzieblooms
BENZIE COUNTY
Venture OSCEOLA COUNTY
Osceola County, located in the central part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, is a region distinguished by its scenic landscapes, agricultural heritage, and rich history.
Spanning over 573 square miles, the county is characterized by a mix of rolling hills, lush forests, and farmland. This setting provides a serene environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and kayaking, with the Muskegon River and multiple lakes adding to its natural allure.
Reed City serves as the county seat and is a hub for community and commerce. The city exudes small-town charm with its historic downtown, locallyrun businesses, and a range of cultural and recreational amenities. The county is also known for its rich agricultural foundation, contributing significantly to Michigan’s farming industry.
Osceola County is home to close-knit communities, exemplified by its numerous festivals, events, and active civic organizations. Residents and visitors alike enjoy its peaceful environment, recreational opportunities, and the warmth of rural hospitality. Whether discovering its history or exploring its natural beauty, Osceola County offers a blend of tranquility and community pride.
Bars & Grills
❖ Travelers Bar and Grill (LeRoy)
❖ Sunny’s Sports Bar and Grill (Reed City)
❖ Sixth and Main Bar and Grill (Evart)
❖ Buckboard Bar and Grill (Reed City)
❖ Horseshoe Bar (Marion)
❖ Wright’s Last Chance Saloon (Reed City)
❖ River Junction (Hersey)
❖ Sixth & Main (Evart)
Family Restaurants/ Diners
❖ H and D Chuckwagon (Reed City)
❖ Seven Slot Grills (Reed City)
❖ Mr. Pibs Restaurant (LeRoy)
❖ The Village Grille (Tustin)
❖ River Junction (Hersey)
Ala Cart
❖ Pere Marquette Bistro and Catering (Reed City)
Pizza
❖ Mineral Springs Pizza Pub and Grill (Tustin)
❖ Pompeii’s (Reed City, Evart)
❖ Hersey’s Pizza Place (Hersey)
Brewery
❖ Reed City Brewery (Reed City)
❖ Cadillac Winery (LeRoy)
❖ Pere Marquette State Trail (ski, hike, snowmobile, bike)
❖ White Pine Trail (ski, hike, snowmobile, bike)
❖ Reed City Parks: Rambadt, Linear, Westerburg (nonmotorized)
❖ Evart Motorcycle Trail (motorcycle only)
❖ Osceola Pathway (nonmotorized)
Venture MANISTEE COUNTY
The childhood home of aviator Harriet Quimby, the John J. Makinen Bottle House, Guiness Book of World Records holding Manistee Fire Hall, a haunted house aboard a historic car ferry ... these are all places that make Manistee County unique.
From Arcadia south to Manistee and east to Brethren, Manistee County is known as the fishing capital of the Midwest. And the fishing doesn’t stop when the lakes freeze over. The county, situated on the shore of Lake Michigan, is home to Portage Lake, Bear Lake and Manistee Lake, to name a few, with the Manistee River running through it all.
In the fall, travel north on M-22 to catch amazing fall colors and play a round at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course. You might even spot a scarecrow or two as you pass through Onekama.
Head back south on U.S. 31 and check out Sparkle in the Park, running from Thanksgiving weekend until Dec. 31. For 20 years, thousands of lights have been lighting up in Hopkins Park to the delight of locals and visitors alike.
Stop in downtown Manistee during the first weekend of December for a step back in time. The Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas weekend is four days of oldfashioned fun. The culminating event is the old-timey, non-motorized parade with horse drawn carriages and stilt-walkers.
Next, head east on the shortest day of the year for the decade’s old tradition in Kaleva. Inspired by Finnish custom, residents place around a thousand luminaries among the graves at Maple Grove Township each year on the winter solstice.
The fun doesn’t end with summer; Manistee County is a four-season wonderland.
October events
❖ Oct. 4: Onekama Fall festival at Onekama Village Park
❖ Oct. 4: Rusty Fish bicycle races and run event
❖ Oct. 4: Run the Town Pink 5K in Manistee
❖ Oct. 25: Manistee Fall Festival in downtown Manistee
❖ Weekends: Ghost Ship aboard the SS City of Milwaukee
November events
❖ Nov. 22: Christmas in Onekama Artisan Market at Onekama Consolidated Schools
❖ Nov. 22: Celebration of Lights at the Farr Center in Onekama
❖ Nov. 29 through Dec. 31: Sparkle in the Park at Hopkins Park in Bear Lake
December events
❖ Dec. 4-7: Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend in downtown Manistee
❖ Dec. 10: Ladie’s Shopping Night in downtown Manistee
❖ Dec. 17: Men’s Shopping Night in downtown Manistee
❖ Dec. 20: Taste of Finland at the Kaleva Bottle House
❖ Dec. 21: Annual Winter Solstice event in Kaleva
MANISTEE COUNTY
Fall experiences
❖ Visit a corn maze, like the Whoville Corn Maze & Pumpkin patch in Kaleva
❖ Drive through the tunnel of trees – Bullfrog Highway to the locals - a half mile stretch of towering willows along Main Street in Eastlake
❖ Walk across the Little Mac Foot Bridge - a 245-foot pedestrian bridge over the Manistee River
❖ Take a self-guided tour of historic Manistee homes and buildings
❖ M-22 color tour – drive up the Lake Michigan shoreline
❖ Little Manistee Weir - watch the DNR harvest salmon eggs
❖ Walk out to Manistee’s North Pierhead Lighthouse
❖ Take in scarecrows along M-22 in Onekama
❖ Visit the Ghost Ship aboard the SS City of Milwaukee
Fall hikes
❖ Orchard Beach State Park trails
❖ Tippy Dam trails
❖ Arcadia Dunes Old Baldy Trail
❖ Arcadia Marsh walkway
❖ City of Manistee Riverwalk
❖ Magoon Creek Natural Area
❖ Manistee River Trail
MANISTEE COUNTY
MANISTEE COUNTY
7 historic sites to tour
Manistee County is home to 28 historic sites as defined by the state of Michigan and 18 listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Here’s seven of those sites that you can tour on your own.
Guardian Angels Church
Location: 375 Fifth St. in Manistee
History: The building’s cornerstone was laid on Sept. 2, 1888; the church was dedicated on Dec. 21, 1890.
Architecture: Adolphus Druiding, a German-born church architect, designed Guardian Angels in the Romanesque Revival style for a German and Irish congregation.
Unique features: The church’s steeple is one of Manistee’s tallest structures at 170 feet tall with a 12-foot wide cross. Other features include the corbelled brickwork beneath the eaves and six eyebrow dormers. In 1909 Carrie Filer funded a 12-bell chime built by the
Meneely Company for the church’s belfry. In 1911, the Dempsey family funded the pipe organ that has more than 1,600 pipes.
Contact: visit facebook.com/ GuardianAngelsProject/
Guardian Angels Church is a Michigan Historic Site.
Manistee County
Historical Museum
Location: 425 River St. in Manistee
History: The museum is located in the Lyman Building, which was originally dedicated as the Russell Memorial Building in 1907. The A.H. Lyman Drug Co. was the consolidation of three of Manistee’s early drug companies.
Unique features: A special pharmacy exhibit is kept in remembrance of the store’s earlier history.
Open hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and 10 a.m.
to 4 p.m. on Saturdays from January to March; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays from April through December
Admission: $5 for adults; $3 for students
Contact: Call 231-723-5531 or visit manisteemuseum.org/contact
The museum is part of the Manistee Central Business District, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
Old Kirke Museum
Location: 304 Walnut St. in Manistee
History: The museum is located in Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, the oldest Danish Lutheran Church building in the United States. On Aug. 1, 1869, the first service in the church was held even though it was without pews and was unplastered. The church is one of the few buildings in Manistee that
survived the great fire of 1871.
Unique features: The church is an example of 19th century Danish architectural influences, featuring decorated gables, a spire, belfry with louvered openings, an elaborate hand carved altar and an intricately carved replica of a Viking ship. Over 130 years later, the ship still looks out over visitors from its perch on the balcony railing.
Contact: email oldkirkemuseum@ gmail.com or visit facebook.com/ oldkirkemuseum
Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and is a Michigan Historic Site.
Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts
Location: 101 Maple St. in Manistee
History: The Ramsdell was built in 1903 by local lawyer and philanthropist Thomas Jefferson (TJ) Ramsdell. The
Manistee Fire Station
Holy Trinity Church
First Congregational Church
Guardian Angels Church
theater and ballroom were designed by Chicago architect Solon Spencer Beman.
Unique features: The stage is 34 feet by 60 feet with a gilded proscenium arch that is 26 feet wide. The theater includes a horseshoe balcony supported by numerous pillars. Walter Wilcox Burridge, a renowned scenic painter who did the original “Wizard of Oz” scenery, painted the front drop curtain, entitled “A Grove Near Athens.” Ramsdell’s son, Frederic Winthrop Ramsdell, the dome in the house that depicts Venus riding her chariot through the heavens, surrounded by cherubs. While the original seating capacity was 1,200, today the house seats 489.
Contact: business office 231-398-9770 or email info@RamsdellTheatre.org
The Ramsdell is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a Michigan Historic Site.
Church of the Holy Trinity, Manistee
Location: 410 Second St. in Manistee
History: The cornerstone for the church was laid in October 1888, and the first services were held on Dec. 16, 1888. A fire in 1909 destroyed the interior; six months later the church was restored. In 1929, faulty wiring in the organ caused another fire which damaged the organ, the chancel, the chapel and the Guild Room. Repairs were completed by Christmas of that year. Extensive renovations in the lower level of the building were completed in the 1990s.
Unique features: The woodwork of the ceiling dates from its 1909 renovation and was the work of a local carpenter. In 1997 a memorial garden was established adjacent to the church.
Contact: 231-723-2078
Holy Trinity was named a Michigan Historic Site in 1981.
MANISTEE COUNTY
City of Manistee Fire Station
Location: 281 First St. in Manistee
History: The Manistee Fire Department has serviced the residents of Manistee since June 17, 1889. It was first constructed by Fredrick Hollister, of Saginaw, in 1888, but was not operational until July 1889. The current fire station was designated the oldest continuously operated fire station in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records on June 17, 2019. It had been granted the title of the oldest, continuously active fire station in the state of Michigan in 1989.
Unique features: The two-story, pressed-brick and cut-stone structure is flanked by a two and a half story copper domed tower. The unique structure is a cross-gabled Romanesque Revival style building and has not undergone any alterations in usage or design since it was built.
Contact: 231-723-1549
The fire station is a Michigan Historic Site.
First Congregational Church
Location: 412 Fourth St. in Manistee
History: The building was designed by Chicago architect William Le Baron Jenny. Construction started in 1888, mostly financed by wealthy lumber barons.
Unique features: The church includes the Nels Johnson Century Clock that features four clock faces. Inside, there are many stained-glass windows, but most notable are two created by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The organ pipes from the Boston Pipe Organ Company dominate the upper choir loft. Look 60 feet up to see laminated wooden beams that consist of 29 layers of local lumber.
Contact: tours can be scheduled by calling John Helge at 616-915-2403 or email johnmhelge@gmail.com
The First Congregational Church has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. It is also a Michigan Historic Site.
Ramsdell Theater
Old Kirke Museum
First Congregational Church
Manistee Museum
Venture MASON COUNTY
Fall in northern Michigan is a majestic time. Along the lakeshore, it’s even better.
During your trip to Mason County, toss a line off the pier or along the Muskegon River as the king and Coho salmon are running.
Visit a u-pick farm for fresh apples and pumpkins. While you’re in the countryside, peep Mother Nature’s ultimate color show from horseback.
Whether fall or winter, kiddos will like the interactive exhibits at Sandcastles Children’s Museum. Mom and dad can check out an exhibit or performance at the Ludington Area Center for the Arts.
When the snow flies, bundle up and head outside to the sledding hill at Skyline Trail at Ludington State Park or see the magic of winter during a lantern-lit snowshoe hike.
Ring in the new year in downtown Ludington during west Michigan’s premier ball drop event.
With all the area has to offer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy, no matter the season.
DOWNTOWN MANISTEE
Specialty
October events
❖ Oct. 3-5: Ludington Lumber Days
❖ Oct. 11: Pumpkins in the Park Glow Walk
❖ Oct. 25: Run for Your Lives 5K
November events
❖ Nov. 15: Holiday Kick Off Craft Market
❖ Nov. 29: Aglow on the Avenue holiday parade & tree lighting
❖ Starting after Thanksgiving Ludington Area Festival of Lights
December events
❖ All month: Ludington Area Festival of Lights
❖ Dec. 31: Ludington New Year’s Eve Ball Drop
January events
❖ Jan. 31: Pure Ludington Brrrewfest
Hiking trails
❖ Ludington State Park
❖ Nordhouse Dunes located
❖ Lake Michigan Recreation Area
❖ North Country Trail trailhead
❖ Cartier Park in Ludington
Photos courtesy of Pure Ludington
Fall experiences
❖ Ludington Breakwater pier and lighthouse
❖ Big Sable Point Lighthouse
❖ White Pine Village
❖ Amber Elk Ranch
❖ Ludington Pump Storage Plant
Stay indoors
❖ Take in an exhibit or performance at Ludington Area Center for the Arts
❖ Kids can get hands-on at Sandcastles Children’s Museum
❖ See what’s happening at the Mason County Library
❖ Challenge friends to a game at Spartan West Bowling
❖ Learn to a new sport with the Ludington Area Curling Club
Winter experiences
❖ Go sledding at Consumers Park
❖ Cross Country skiing and snowshoeing at Nordhouse Dunes
❖ Ice skating at the West Shore Community College Ice arena
❖ Fat tired biking at Ludington State Park
❖ Lantern-lit snowshoe hikes at Ludington State Park
Orchard Market
Venture MECOSTA COUNTY
Mecosta County, nestled in the heart of Michigan, is a picturesque region known for its natural beauty, vibrant community, and rich heritage.
The county spans over 571 square miles and features a mix of lush forests, sparkling lakes, and fertile farmland. Its scenic landscape makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping. With over 100 lakes and numerous rivers, including the Muskegon River, aquatic adventures abound.
Big Rapids, the county seat, serves as the economic and cultural hub of Mecosta County. It is home to Ferris State University, a renowned institution that significantly contributes to the local economy and vibrancy. The university offers diverse educational opportunities and acts as a center for arts, culture, and sports.
Mecosta County’s strong sense of community is evident in its annual events, farmers markets, and festivals that bring residents together. Its charming small towns and welcoming neighborhoods create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
With a balance of natural beauty, educational opportunities, and a sense of close-knit community, Mecosta County offers both residents and visitors a unique experience that combines rural tranquility with collegiate energy and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring its great outdoors, engaging in local traditions, or taking part in educational pursuits, Mecosta County is a destination full of charm and promise.
Visit a farm
❖ Four Green Fields Farm, 15693 Wilson Rd, Rodney (Corn maze, haunted maze, hayrides, sleigh rides, carriage rides, pumpkin patch, Christmas trees)
❖ The Winery at Young Farm, 8396 70th Avenue, Mecosta (produce, live music, wine-tasting, desserts, dinners, seasonal blueberries, cider)
❖ Grant Family Farms, 10636 14 Mile Rd, Rodney. Open early May – Halloween + December (Produce, u-pick pumpkin patch, Christmas trees)
❖ Hearty Harvest, 5356 9 Mile Rd, Remus. Open early May to early November (Produce, including apples, squash and pumpkins, cider, homemade jams, honey, maple syrup)
❖ The Purple Pepper, 18700 20th Ave, Barryton. Open MayOctober (Produces, including apples, squash, pumpkins, gourds, cider, peppers)
Visit a trail
❖ Big Rapids Riverwalk, downtown Big Rapids
❖ Fred Meijer White Pine Trail, along U.S. 131
❖ Clay Cliffs, Big Rapids
❖ Dragon Trail, along the Muskegon River from Stanwood to Newaygo
❖ White Pine Valley Recreation Area, Paris
MECOSTA COUNTY
Upscale Eateries
❖ Two Hats Ranch, Big Rapids
❖ Blue Cow, Big Rapids
Bar and Grill
❖ Antler’s Fireside Grill, Stanwood/ Canadian Lakes
❖ Schuberg’s Bar and Grill, Big Rapids
❖ Remus Tavern, Remus
❖ Szots Bar and Grill, Big Rapids
❖ Pappy’s Bar and Grill, Rodney
❖ Star Shooter’s Bar and Restaurant
Pizza Joints
❖ Pizza in Paris, Paris
❖ CL Pizza Co., Canadian Lakes
❖ Mancino’s Pizza and Grinders, Big Rapids
❖ Lakeside Pizza and Grinders in Stanwood
❖ Jet’s Pizza
❖ Domino’s Pizza
❖ Crusted Creations
❖ Hungry Howie’s Pizza
❖ Lucky Louie’s Pizza
❖ Dave’s Pizza
❖ Great Lakes Cravings Resaurant
❖ Ann Marie’s Restaurant and Pizza
Classic Cafés
❖ Corner Café, Stanwood
❖ KJ’s Family Restaurant, Mecosta
❖ Moe-Z-Inn, Morley
❖ Sugar Creek Restaurant, Big Rapids
❖ Williams Café, Barryton
❖ Ala Mode, Big Rapids
❖ Belle’s Coffee House
❖ The Rock Cafe
Offbeat Eats
❖ Fatbelly Deli and Creamery, Stanwood
❖ Nawal’s Mediterranean Grille, Big Rapids
❖ Two Cheesy Guys
❖ BR Lunch Box, Big Rapids
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MECOSTA COUNTY
Late Night Drinks
❖ Sawmill Saloon, Big Rapids
❖ The Rooster Saloon, Chippewa Lake
❖ Ozzys Pub, Stanwood
❖ Murphy’s Bar, Barryton
❖ Gypsy Nickel Lounge, Big Rapids
Brewery/Winery
❖ Winery at Youngs Farm, Mecosta
❖ Cranker’s Restaurant and Brewery, Big Rapids
❖ Gwin Girls Winery and Tasting Room, Remus
❖ Heavenly Vineyards, Morley
Coffee and Donuts
❖ Conley’s Bakery, Mecosta
❖ Three Girls Bakery, Big Rapids
❖ Bernie’s Place, Big Rapids
❖ The Corner Cup Coffeehouse, Remus
❖ The Backroom Coffee, Big Rapids
❖ Belle’s Coffee House
Venture NEWAYGO COUNTY
Newaygo County is a remarkable destination offering natural beauty, vibrant community events, and historic landmarks, making it a must-visit location. Nestled amid the stunning natural landscapes of Michigan, this county attracts outdoor enthusiasts and provides visitors with a wide array of recreational and cultural activities.
The county seat, White Cloud, serves as a gateway to Newaygo County’s rich history and charm. It features quaint downtown shops and welcoming hospitality. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Muskegon River is a prime attraction, flowing through the heart of the county and offering excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and boating.
Newaygo County is also home to the Hardy Dam and Croton Dam, which are iconic landmarks, providing not only hydroelectric power but also beautiful lakes and recreational areas. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, and even camping around these scenic spots, making them perfect for family gatherings and adventure seekers alike.
Whether enjoying the scenic trails and rivers, attending exciting annual celebrations, or discovering the welcoming charm of its communities, Newaygo County provides countless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and connection with nature. Its unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural events, and historic sites ensures that every visitor leaves with lasting memories.
• Live Bait • Tackle
• DNR Licenses
• Archer y • Hunting Supplies
Places to grab a bite to eat:
❖ Woody’s Bar, located at 8773 Golden Road in Bitely
❖ Old Iron Bar & Grill, located at 189 S. Maple in Grant
❖ Angelo & Ricardo’s, located at 161 Division Avenue in Hesperia
❖ Sally’s Whatta Pizza, located at 103 S. Charles in White Cloud
❖ Driftwood Bar & Grill, located at 7456 S. Croton Hardy Drive in Newaygo
❖ Schindy’s at Diamond Lake, located at 297 W. Foss Avenue in White Cloud
❖ Lakes 23 Restaurant & Pub, located at 1100 Ramshorn Drive in Fremont
❖ Koffee Kuppe, located at 46 W. Main St. in Fremont
❖ The Lunch Pail, located at 14 W. Main St. in Fremont
❖ Northern Trails Bar & Grill in Newaygo
❖ Smuggler’s At North Shore in Newaygo
❖ Jimmy’s Roadhouse in Newaygo
❖ River Stop Café in Newaygo
❖ Panda Buffet in Newaygo
❖ River Stop Saloon in Newaygo
❖ Newaygo Brewing Company in Newaygo
❖ City Limits in Newaygo
❖ Diner Between The Dams in Newaygo
❖ Sportsman’s Bar in Newaygo
THINKING OF REPL ACING
ALL MARI N E
NEWAYGO COUNTY
Places to check out:
❖ Heritage Farms Market located at 1858 S. Maple Island in Fremont
❖ Heritage Farms Market is open now through November. The farm offers: fresh apple cider and donuts; a USA corn maze; hay rides; a pumpkin patch; and much more.
❖ Nelson’s Farm Market located at 469 W. 112th St. in Grant
❖ Nelson’s Farm Market is open year round. It’s a family-owned farm and retail market, growing a variety of fruits and vegetables.
❖ North Country Trail, which can be accessed from the White Cloud Campground by a connector trail. The White Cloud Campground is located on Echo Drive about two blocks west of downtown. The trail links scenic, natural, historic and cultural areas in seven states.
Places to explore:
❖ The Shack Country Inn Bed and Breakfast, 2263 W. 14th St. in White Cloud. The Shack, a country inn, is nestled in 100 acres of woods on the banks of the lovely Robinson Lake. With over 40 guest rooms you can enjoy this peaceful alternative to a hotel, motel or cabin while you are in the Newaygo County.
❖ North Country Trail. This trail is part of the National Parks Trails System and when completed, the 4,600-mile National Scenic Trail will be the longest continuous hiking trail in the United States, traversing through eight states, from Vermont to North Dakota. The trail links scenic, natural, historic, and cultural areas allowing visitors to experience a variety of northern landscapes. The National Trail can be accessed from the White Cloud Campground by a connector trail. The White Cloud Campground is located on Echo Drive about two blocks west of downtown.
❖ Michigan’s Dragon Trail. Newaygo County is one gateway to experience The Dragon. From trailheads located in multiple Township, State and County Parks on Hardy Pond, you can now access newly completed trail segments. Learn more about open and future segments and access points at www.thedragon.us
Venture MONTCALM COUNTY
Montcalm County located in the central part of the state, is a region brimming with rich history, natural beauty, and a variety of attractions.
The county is home to scenic parks, inviting visitors to experience its lush forests, sparkling lakes, and outdoor adventure options. Clifford Lake, Tamarack Lake, and Crystal Lake are popular spots for fishing, boating, and water sports. Trails like the Fred Meijer Heartland Trail offer picturesque paths for biking, hiking, and exploring.
Greenville, the largest city in Montcalm County, showcases a charming downtown area with unique shops, local restaurants, and cultural activities. For history enthusiasts, Montcalm Community College Heritage Village provides a glimpse into the past with its historic buildings and artifacts.
Local festivals and events, including the Danish Festival in Greenville, celebrate the county’s cultural melting pot and heritage. Seasonal activities such as apple picking, hayrides, and skiing ensure that there’s always something to do year-round.
With its beautiful environment, welcoming towns, and rich history, Montcalm County provides a perfect destination for family outings, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking relaxation in a welcoming rural setting.
Restaurants
❖ Turk Lake Restaurant & Bar, Greenville
❖ El Rancho, Greenville
❖ Hop Hog Backyard Brewpub, Greenville
❖ Applebee’s Grill & Bar, Greenville
❖ Mr T’s Party Store & Deli, Greenville
❖ Flo’s Pizzeria Ristorante & Sports Bar, Greenville
❖ Margo’s Family Restaurant, Greenville
❖ Eddie’s Pizza Place, Greenville
❖ El Jalapeno Mexican Restaurant, Greenville
❖ Big Boy, Greenville
❖ Holly’s Pub & Grub, Stanton
❖ B.C. Pizza Greenville, Greenville
❖ The Garage Diner, Greenville
❖ Chapz Roadhouse, Lakeview
Local trails
❖ Fred Meier Flat River Valley Trail: A 21.7-mile-long rails-to-trails path that starts in Jackson’s Landing Park, E. Washington St./ SR 57, in Greenville, and ends in Lowell.
❖ Fred Meijer Heartland Trail: A paved 41.8-mile-long railsto-trails path that connects Greenville to Alma
❖ Kenneth J. Lehman Nature Trails: Four 4 miles of trails through more than 100 acres located on Montcalm Community College’s Sidney campus and the Stanton State Game Area.
❖ Fred Meijer White Pine Trail: A 92.6-mile rails-to-trails path that runs north-south along Old 131, cutting through Howard City.
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Museums to visit
❖ Flat River Historical Museum: 215 N. Franklin St. Greenville. (616) 754-5296. Twelve period rooms, portraying lifestyles of Greenville’s early settlers and founder John Green.
❖ Montcalm Heritage Village: 2800 College Drive, Sidney, (989) 328-2111. A collection of restored buildings and original duplications that depict life in earlier times.
❖ Lakeview Area Museum: 107 N. Lincoln Ave., Lakeview. Contains pictures, artifacts from Lakeview’s early days.
❖ Old Fence Rider Historical Center: 222 S. Sheldon St., Edmore, (989) 506-9562. A historical collection of Western heritage.
Things to do
❖ Anderson & Girls Orchards: 2985 N. Sheridan Road, Stanton, 989-831-4228. Features petting zoo, fresh produce, cider, bakery, and pick-your-own pumpkin with wagon rides to the patch on weekends in October. Open through November.
❖ Farm Country Cheese House: 72363 West Kendaville Road, Lakeview, 989-352-7779. Artisanal cheese maker using milk from local Amish farms. Tours available.
❖ Magnum Sports: A 20,000 square foot, full-service Sporting Goods Store in Greenville, with a 12-lane indoor pistol/rifle range, 40-yard indoor archery range, Dart Simulator and TechnoHunt. Contact: 616-712-6162.
❖ The Fighting Falcon Military Museum: 516 W. Cass St., Greenville. Features the Fighting Falcon glider and World War 2 exhibits, housed inside a brick, four-room schoolhouse built in the 1902. Open Sundays from May to Veterans Day.
❖ Flat River Historical Society and Museum. 213 N. Franklin Street Greenville Michigan. The museum is open Saturdays and Sundays from 2:00 to 4:30 pm. Private tours will be available upon request. You don’t expect an ordinary old museum visit do you? Flat River Historical Museum offers a scavenger hunt called “I TRY! leading visitors to hands-on interactive exhibits. You’ll explore the museum’s treasures, but that’s not all! Kids receive a fun prize when the challenge is complete. Touch furs, meet a “ghost,” lift an ice block, ride a penny pony, and more.
Venture WEXFORD COUNTY
Wexford County is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Spend a day on the slopes at Caberfae Peaks or check out one of the many non-motorized trails for hiking, biking, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Or hop on your snowmobile for a ride on the Cadillac/Wexford Snowmobile Trails.
This fall, don’t miss the 50th anniversary of the KISS concert at Cadillac High School. The Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau is celebrating that visit with the KISS50 Cadillac Reunion from Oct. 9-12.
If you prefer to stay indoors when the snow flies, check out one of the several museums in the county or visit the Wexford Civic Center, a 4,000-capacity arena that offers ice skating, indoor walking, pickleball and events.
Photos courtesy of Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau
October events
❖ Oct. 9-12: Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau’s KISS50 Cadillac Reunion
November events
❖ Nov. 8: Lumberjack Social hosted by the Wexford Historical Society
❖ Nov. 28: Christmas in the Park at Cadillac Commons
December events
❖ Dec. 6: Christmas in the Park event in Manton at the Manton Station
❖ Dec. 6: Santa Sighting at various historical locations in Cadillac
February events
❖ Feb. 6-8: Midwest Snowkite Jam in Cadillac
Things to do
❖ Ice skating at the Wexford Civic Center
❖ Take a sleigh ride at CJ’s Stables in Manton
❖ Let off some steam at Skeggox Axe Throwing
❖ Check out fish of Lake Mitchell and Lake Cadillac at Carl T. Johnson Hunting and Fishing Center
❖ Hit the slopes at Caberfae Peaks
❖ Lantern lit hike on the Heritage Nature Trail
WEXFORD COUNTY
Nonmotorized Trails
❖ Evergreen Resort Trail snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
❖ Mitchel State Park Heritage Trail walking, snowshoeing, crosscountry skiing, ADA assessable
❖ Clam River Greenway walking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, biking, ADA assessable
❖ Cadillac Pathway Trail hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fat tire biking
❖ Cadillac Bike and Foot Path walking, biking, ADA assessable
❖ Mackenzie Trail hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
❖ White Pine Trail snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
❖ Manistee River Trail hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
❖ North Country Trail Loop near Mesick hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing
Snowmobile Trails
❖ Cadillac/Wexford Snowmobile Trails
❖ White Pine Trail (certain sections) Museums
❖ Manton Area Historical Museum
❖ Wexford County Historical Museum & Carnegie Library
❖ Mesick Area Historical Museum
❖ Manton Veterans Memorial Museum
❖ Marion Area Historical Museum
❖ Wexford Genealogical Organization
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WEXFORD COUNTY
Commemorate the 50th anniversary of KISS concert at Cadillac High School
CADILLAC – On Oct. 9, 1975, students at Cadillac High School received the thrill of their lives – a private homecoming concert in their high school gym by the iconic rock band KISS.
Fifty years later, the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau is celebrating that visit with the KISS50 Cadillac Reunion – a tribute season of KISS-related events and activities culminating with a celebratory 50th anniversary weekend from Oct. 9-12.
“Cadillac has had this magical connection to KISS ever since the band surprised the community with a homecoming concert 50 years ago, and we are celebrating in a big way in 2025 to commemorate that anniversary,” said Kathy
Morin, Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau Executive Director. “We have events and activities for everyone to enjoy now through October –whether you were here 50 years ago and want to reminisce, you are a member of the KISS Army of fans, or you’re just curious about the KISS phenomenon and want to be part of the energy. Our businesses are on board as well creating a variety of KISS-themed experiences.”
Cadillac ‘KISStory’
Cadillac’s KISS connection dates to fall 1974 when the Cadillac High School Vikings football team had a rough start to its season after finishing the 1973 season undefeated.
When they lost the first two
games, the coaches decided to play rock and roll music before practices and games to lighten the mood.
Assistant Coach Jim Neff picked the music, choosing a new American rock band formed in 1973 called KISS.
The team won the next seven games and captured the conference co-championship. Neff contacted the band to thank them for rallying the team to a winning season.
Intrigued by the story, KISS surprised the town by visiting Cadillac High School during homecoming on Oct. 9, 1975.
The band joined the football
team in the homecoming parade, performed a concert in the high school gym, received a key to the city of Cadillac, and departed via helicopter from Veterans Memorial Stadium.
“Not only were they wild, bold and loud, their name invoked an old football credo — Keep It Simple Stupid. It was a match that was meant to be,” said former Assistant Football Coach Jim Neff, also a retired teacher and journalist who has worked to keep the legendary KISS visit to Cadillac alive.
For the 40th anniversary in 2015, Cadillac hosted a KISS homecoming event featuring a concert in the high school gym by KISS tribute band Mr. Speed, unveiled an
8-foot, 5,000-pound granite KISS Monument on the school grounds (the only KISS monument in the world), and played a video message from KISS while they were on tour in Australia.
KISS50 events and activities
Decorations adorn the area, with KISS-themed banners on light poles and KISS-decorated storefronts downtown along Mitchell Street, and a giant banner welcoming visitors to Cadillac West.
Highlights include:
• KISStory self-guided history tour – Ongoing throughout Cadillac. The Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau produced an updated brochure of a fourstop, self-guided tour retracing steps the band took in 1975 (Veterans Memorial Stadium, Cadillac High School Gym, Old City Hall/ Firehouse and Mitchell Street/homecoming parade route). Each stop has a commemorative marker featuring photos and an explanation of
why the spot is significant. The brochure also explains Cadillac’s history with the band and anecdotes of their visit.
• KISS50 exhibit – A new exhibit at the Wexford Historical Society Museum, at 127 Beech St., showcases memorabilia related to KISS’ visit 50 years ago, including original newspaper and magazine clippings plus firsthand accounts, photos and artifacts from local KISS fans and alumni. The exhibit will be on display through October. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays.
• KISS experiences – More than 10 businesses will give fans ways to enjoy KISS-related products, such as “Clam Lake Party Every Day Hazy IPA” and “Rock and Roll All Night Session Light” at Clam Lake Beer Co., “Dark & Roll” custom-blend coffee at Owl Eye Coffee Roasters, “Cadillac Rock City” (Rocky Road) Moomers
More details will be released closer to the anniversary weekend.
Events confirmed to date include:
• Cadillac Vikings football game and tailgate followed by KISSthemed drone show – Oct. 10 at Veterans Memorial Stadium overlooking Lake Cadillac. KISS fans can cheer on the Vikings, the reason behind Cadillac’s KISS connection, at the stadium where the band departed via helicopter Oct. 9, 1975. KISS experiences are being planned in conjunction with the football game.
• KISS50 5K – Oct. 11, starts at the Cadillac Commons along the Lake Cadillac shoreline.
ice cream flavor at The Sweet Shop, and KISS cut-out sugar cookies at Wildflour Bakery, among other KISS-themed products. A map can be picked up locally at many of the featured stops (also look for Caddy Bear’s “KISS50 Cadillac Reunion Tour Stop” sign in windows of participating businesses). Fans can even stay in a KISS-themed cabin and add a KISS-themed experience at Mackinaw Timbers Cabins.
• KISS photo opps – Businesses are “KISS-ifying” their properties with everything from KISS band cut-outs, to banners, to decorated storefronts. Check kisscadillac.com/kisstory for updated listings.
KISS50 Cadillac Reunion Anniversary Weekend
The 50th anniversary culminates with a four-day weekend featuring marquee events organized by the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau and Cadillac Area Public Schools.
• Cadillac KISS50 Rockumentary – Oct. 11 with viewings at Cadillac High School, times are TBD. Produced by the Cadillac Area Visitors Bureau, this film reflects on the 50-year legacy, featuring interviews with Jim Neff and others who experienced the KISS visit firsthand.
• Mr. Speed KISS tribute concert – 7 p.m. on Oct. 11 at The Venue, 902 W 13th St. This highly acclaimed KISS tribute band has been performing for more than 30 years and will play all the favorite hits – and in full costume. Tickets are on sale at $20 apiece.
• Other experiences – Additional anniversary weekend events and activities include exclusive exhibits and presentations in the Wexford County Museum, alumni reunions, a KISS golf outing, KISS Glow Skate at The Wex Ice Arena and KISS Bingo at MI Mezcal.
Anniversary-related events and information can be found at kisscadillac.com, with more experiences added as confirmed.
REAL ESTATE DIRECTORY
A guide to mortgage interest rates
Buying a home is the most expensive purchase many people make in their lifetime. Some people do it only once, while others are in the market with greater frequency. In any instance when the home buying process involves securing a mortgage, buyers can benefit from knowing a thing or two about mortage interest rates.
A mortgage interest rate can help buyers determine if a given home is affordable or beyond their budget. Rocket Mortgage says mortgage interest rates can have a major impact on long-term costs, so it is imperative to seek the lowest rates possible. However, an assortment of economic variables affect mortgage interest rates, and conditions unique to each buyer also can affect the rate they’re eligible to obtain. Understanding home loan rates can help potential buyers better navigate the complex process of buying a home.
WHAT IS MORTGAGE INTEREST?
When a person buys a home with a mortgage, he or she doesn’t just pay back the amount borrowed,
which is called the principal. The loan also requires paying interest, which is essentially the cost of borrowing money. Mortgage interest is calculated as a percentage of the remaining principal, says Investopedia.
HOW ARE MORTGAGE RATES SET?
Mortgage rates are not determined by a single variable. They are derived from a combination of factors that includes the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, economic conditions and a borrower’s personal financial situation. The Federal Reserve (in the United States) influences the overall rates by adjusting the federal funds rate, or the rate at which banks lend to each other overnight. This not only impacts mortgage rates, but also additional interest rates, according to Fannie Mae. Lenders will ultimately decide on the specific rates to offer borrowers.
HOW DOES A BORROWER’S FINANCIAL SITUATION AFFECT MORTGAGE RATES?
Lenders will conduct a thorough assessment of a potential bor-
rower’s creditworthiness. They will look at, among other things, a borrower’s credit score and debt-to-income ratio. A higher credit score typically results in a lower interest rate. A lower DTI indicates a lower risk to the lender, also potentially resulting in a lower interest rate. Squaring away finances well in advance of applying for a mortgage can help home buyers secure lower interest rates that could save them considerable sums of money over the life of their mortgages.
HOW DO LOAN TYPES AFFECT MORTGAGE INTEREST?
A home buyer will pay interest no matter the mortgage type, but there are options to select a fixed or adjustable interest rate, or even interest-only mortgages.
According to Bankrate, with a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rate remains the same throughout the life of the loan, meaning the
payment for principal and interest will remain consistent. Additional charges that are wrapped into mortgage payments could change, however. Property taxes and homeowners’ insurance charges could increase, for example. Fixed rates tend to be lower when the term of the mortgage is shorter. So borrowers can opt for a 20-year mortgage over a 30-year to save some money on interest.
An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) will see the interest rate change during the repayment period. It may start with a low introductory rate for the first several years of the loan, but then can go up or down depending on market indexes and benchmarks. Many lenders put a cap on how high the interest rate can go, however.
Various factors determine mortgage interest rates for home buyers, including market conditions, credit standing, federal rates, the type of loan, and term length.
How to navigate a challenging real estate market
Real estate has long been touted as a worthy long-term investment. With that conventional wisdom in mind, young adults often make buying a home one of their first big-ticket purchases. Though real estate remains a potentially lucrative investment, the market for homes has been difficult to navigate for several years running.
High mortgage interest rates and low inventory have left many buyers feeling priced out of the real estate market. Others may find the competitive nature of the modern real estate market too stressful. No one can predict if or when the real estate market might be less challenging, but the following are some ways those looking for a house can navigate that process.
• Ready your finances. It goes without saying that prospective buyers must get their financial affairs in order before they begin shopping for a house. But finding a home in the current market takes time, and some buyers might have let their mort-
gage preapproval letter expire without realizing it. Others might have experienced a dip in their credit rating as they turned to credit cards to confront inflation. That means buyers who began looking for a home months or even years ago might not be positioned to buy now should they find a home to their liking. Revisit your finances if it’s been awhile. Pay off any consumer debt that has accumulated in recent months and reapply for
mortgage preapproval if necessary.
• Be ready to pounce. Data from the National Association of Realtors found that the average home spent 32 days on the market before being sold in November of 2024, which was a full week longer than a year earlier. That’s good news for buyers, but it still means buyers must be ready to pounce if they find a home and home price to their liking.
• Hire a real estate agent. The hectic pace of the modern real estate market can be difficult for anyone to keep up with. But real estate agents keep up with the market for a living, and they can be invaluable resources for buyers whose commitments to work and family are making it difficult to keep pace.
• Emphasize long-term growth and value when assessing properties. According to Zillow, the median list price of homes
in the United States was just under $387,000 by the end of January 2025. But buyers must also recognize that 22.4 percent homes sold above list price in that month, according to a Redfin analysis of MLS data and/or public records. Buying a home is more than an investment in a property. It’s also in some way an investment in the town where the home is located and in a homeowners’ future. So while it can be tempting to buy a home with the lowest asking price, home buyers should also seek homes that figure to experience the best long-term growth in value. Homes situated in safe and welcoming towns with good schools are arguably a better investment than homes with lower sticker prices but no such amenities.
The real estate market has been challenging for buyers over the last several years. Various strategies can help buyers find a home that suits them and their budgets.
DRAGON Ride The
Dear Readers and Subscribers,
To all of our readers and subscribers, thank you. We start each day mindful that none of this — every story we chase, every idea we test, every mile on the map — matters without you. You are the pulse behind our pages and posts, the compass that keeps us honest, curious, and brave. Your time is precious; the fact that you spend it with us is the highest compliment we can receive.
Your notes, clicks, shares, and quiet reflections shape what we write next. Your tough questions sharpen our reporting; your encouragement carries us through late nights and early mornings. When you highlight a line that resonated, or tell us a feature changed how you see a place, it reminds us why this work matters.
You are not just an audience — you are collaborators, co-navigators, and stewards of a community that believes stories can open doors and roads can lead to understanding. Because of you, we aim higher: clearer writing, deeper research, more thoughtful itineraries, and more surprising routes.
We carry your trust like a passport — earned, stamped, and safeguarded. Please keep telling us what you need, what you love, and what you want more (or less) of.
We listening, learning, and grateful beyond words. Here’s to the journeys we’ve shared and the ones ahead. Thank you for being the reason we continue to explore. For new readers, welcome; for longtime supporters, your steady presence humbles us.
Together, we’ll keep seeking wonder, context, and connection that West Michigan has to offer.
Darren Iozia, editor of
The Pioneer
HUNTING & FISHING DIRECTORY
No boat or kayak? Here are 5 easy access dock fishing spots
BY ARIELLE BREEN
Manistee and Benzie counties have a variety of shorelines, docks and piers suited for fishing for anglers without a boat or kayak.
Here are five local spots for accessible fishing from land.
ARCADIA
Arcadia’s Grebe Park is an accessible location with high chances of catching fish.
Grebe Park is located at 16966 First St. The dock is located on Arcadia Lake and offers the chance to catch catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, pan fish, pike, walleye and yellow perch.
Recent renovations and additions to the park include the development of a water trail, kayak rental kiosk and borrow-a-bike program.
Andy’s Point
HUNTING & FISHING DIRECTORY
MANISTEE
The Arthur Street Boat Launch dock in Manistee allows anglers access to bluegill, rock bass, yellow perch, largemouth and smallmouth bass, pike, walleye, chinook salmon, coho salmon and steelhead on Manistee Lake.
EASTLAKE
Penny Park on Eastlake’s Gillespie Street has a universally accessible boat launch dock for fishing on the east side of Manistee Lake near a marshy inlet area.
The dock was added to the park in 2015 and anglers can find panfish, bass and pike.
ONEKAMA
The DNR boat launch at Andy’s Point in Onekama gives anglers a small
dock to access plenty of bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, rock bass, yellow perch and black crappie on Portage Lake.
The dock is located on Lake Park Drive near North Point Park. In 2022, a universal access kayak and canoe launch were installed at the location.
ELBERTA
Elberta Waterfront Park on Betsie Lake is located at 1074 Furnace St. in Elberta. It’s a family-friendly location for accessible fishing.
The park has a long fishing platform and shore fishing options for catching bullhead, catfish, largemouth and smallmouth bass, pike, rainbow trout, sucker, sunfish, walleye and yellow perch.
Grebe Park
WHITE PINE TRAIL Ride The
