Michigan, a state known for its unique natural beauty, rich history, and dynamic culture, is home to two of America’s most stunning little towns: Traverse City and Mackinac Island.
These hidden jewels provide tourists with a peek at Michigan’s best attractions, including gorgeous landscapes, historic sites, and delicious cuisine. Here are some compelling reasons to visit these extraordinary destinations.
Traverse City: The Cherry Capital of the World
Traverse City, located on the beaches of Lake Michigan, is a picturesque town surrounded by rolling hills, orchards, vineyards, and forests. It is known as the cherry capital of the world, producing around 75% of the nation’s tart cherries.
Every year, the town organizes the National Cherry Festival, a week-long event that includes parades, music, activities, and, of course, lots of cherry pies.
Aside from cherries, Traverse City is a popular destination for outdoor leisure, including hiking, bicycling, kayaking, fishing, skiing, and golfing. Explore the beautiful Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which boasts towering dunes, crystal-clear lakes, and numerous paths. Enjoy the Traverse City Wine Trail, which features vineyards that make award-winning wines that are distinctive to the region’s climate and soil.
Traverse City is also a cultural hub, with a thriving arts and entertainment community. Attend a show at the historic City Opera House, which features musicals, comedies, and concerts. Don’t miss the Traverse City Film Festival, an annual event that features independent, international, and documentary films.
Mackinac Island: Going Back in Time
Mackinac Island, located in Lake Huron between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, provides a timeless experience with no vehicles and only horses, bicycles, and walkers. The island’s rich history includes its vital importance during the American Revolution and the War of 1812, as well as its success as a Victorian-era tourist destination.
The historic Grand Hotel, which opened in 1887, is a feature of the island, with the world’s longest porch—a 660-foot veranda overlooking the lake. The hotel is known for its exquisite design, afternoon tea service, and dress code that requires formal wear after 6 p.m.
Another must-see destination is Fort Mackinac, a historic fort erected by the British in 1780 and later captured by the Americans. The fort’s exhibitions, demonstrations, and reenactments provide insights into 19th-century military and civilian life.
Explore the Mackinac Island State Park, which covers 80% of the island and protects its natural beauty and wildlife. Mackinac Island is also known for its gastronomic delights, particularly its famous fudge—a creamy delicacy created fresh daily by local merchants in a variety of flavors. Enjoy the island’s whitefish, a native catch served in a variety of ways such as grilling, smoking, or baking.
Final Words
In conclusion, Michigan boasts two enchanting destinations—Traverse City, the Cherry Capital of the World, offering scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, and a vibrant cultural scene, and Mackinac Island, a step back in time with historic sites, Victorian charm, and delightful culinary experiences. These gems encapsulate Michigan’s diverse attractions, inviting visitors to explore its natural beauty and rich heritage.