My hometown, Muskegon, Michigan, has slowly became a very dangerous city. Crime rates have grown exponentially and our downtown area is full of destroyed buildings and broken windows. Even though we have a lot going wrong, I think that we have just as many things working in our favor. Here's why.
1. The beach is always a short drive away.
Whenever I feel stressed, overwhelmed, or angry, I just hop in the car and drive to Lake Michigan. As I'm looking into the lake, I just reflect. When I'm away at college, the lake is what I miss about Muskegon the most.
2. You'll never not have a place to eat.
Drive down Henry Street in Norton Shores, or Harvey Street near Fruitport. We have an insane amount of places to eat dinner at. Whenever our friends get together, one of our go-to phrases is "let's get food."
3. We have a beautiful theatre downtown.
The Frauenthal Center for Performing Arts puts on so many incredible productions year round. I had the pleasure of performing here every December in The Singing Christmas Tree while I was in high school. As a theatre major, I have great appreciation for all the classes and workshops they provide for educating kids in theatre.
4. Roosevelt Park might just be the cutest town in existence.
Drive through it. You'll understand.
5. Station burgers.
Enough said.
6. There's a variety of places to choose where to get slushies.
Wesco is pretty awesome. But we also have a Speedway, 2 Meijers, and a couple other gas stations with unreal slushies. It's a summer necessity.
7. DRIVE IN MOVIES.
The Drive In on Getty Street is one of the most classic locations. I always feel like I'm in that scene from Grease.
8. Michigan's Adventure!
We have a fun amusement/water park pretty close to us in Whitehall. It's a stellar way to spend the day.
9. It's a city, but not a big city.
It isn't small enough to get bored, but it isn't big enough to feel overwhelmed. It's a very happy medium.
10. We have a lot of McDonald's locations.
But really. This is good. Anytime you crave a fountain drink or chicken nuggets... they're always right around the corner.
11. So much scenic beauty.
Drive down Forest Park Road or Lake Harbor Road with the sun shining through the tree leaves. It's beautiful. Go to Hoffmaster Park and take a walk. Absorbing the nature is such a good way to heal and relax.
