Growing up in Michigan, there has always been something a bit "magical" about summertime. Some may say it stems from finally defrosting from frigid, snow-filled winters. Others might just agree with me that a summer spent in Michigan is unique and an experience all of its own. Here are some reasons why:
1. Day Trips
It's easy from nearly any place in the state to drive just a couple hours or so and find yourself in an entirely different setting. With great cities all along the Great Lakes coasts, and inland favorites like Grand Rapids, it's hard to be bored when the warmer weather has you craving the sunshine and the need to get out and do something.
2. Sidewalk Sales
Many towns strive to draw in traffic to the local shops, especially during the summer. What better way to get shoppers into the stores than lure them in with sales and deals that they can find while strolling downtown?
3. Festival Season
Summer has a special way of bringing communities together, and one way this happens throughout Michigan is through the festivals that so many towns pride themselves on. Be it the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival or the Cherry Festival in Traverse City (and all the others far and wide) they are truly amazing and aspects of this great state that shouldn't be missed out on.
4. Grilling Season
Nothing depicts a more iconic Michigan summer than grilling out in the backyard. No matter the cuisine over the coals the aroma is bound to fill the noses of all in the neighborhood. Sometimes it winds up like a domino effect, one starts and before you know it the rest of the block is grilling out.
5. Tigers Baseball
Not much compares to a night at Comerica Park taking in America's Favorite pastime.
6. Parades
Along with those festivals is often a parade or two, but there are also many parades around the state dedicated to other things like National Holidays. No matter the reason or purpose
7. Fresh Vegetable Markets/ Fresh Produce
Few things compare to farm/garden fresh vegetables, besides buying them local that is! Tis the season for the freshest sweet corn, strawberries, watermelon and all the other amazing warm weather crops.
8. Lakes
It's hard to go far in the mitten without finding some body of water, but once the calendar starts to turn to the months with heat many Michiganders can be found spending their free time out by the water, on the water, or in the water.
9. Canoeing/Kayaking
When you can't find a lake, you're likely to find a river in many parts of the mitten and what better way to explore and see nature than with a paddle in your hand as you cruise downstream?
10. Camping
A trademark of summer is relaxation. Many Michiganders would argue that camping is the best way to relax. According to the Pure Michigan website, there are over a thousand campgrounds throughout the state, so I'm sure you're likely to find one you like.
11. County Fairs
Much like a festival, but often longer, larger and even more unique are the county fairs throughout the state. Often featuring big name musical acts these can be the locations for many monumental summertime memories. Let us not forget the carnival rides and that fair food we all savor, waiting anxiously year to year for the next taste.
Make sure to get out and enjoy all that Michigan beholds in the summer. There's so much out there to see and do, the possibilities are endless!
