Summer is finally here! And with summer comes warm weather, longer days, and a bunch of fun events to go to in Michigan! If you're like me, you want to make the most out of the warm weather while we have it because as you know, Michigan weather can be rather unpredictable. So, here's a list of some fun summer date ideas to do in the Great Lakes Bay Region this summer with your SO, best friend or even just by yourself:

1. Picnic in the Park

This is a classic summer date. What better way to spend the afternoon than lounging in the shade, enjoying the smell of fresh cut grass and spending some quality conversation time with that special someone. So, pack up a picnic basket and go find some shade in your local park.

2. Live Music

You don't have to spend a lot of money to go to a big name concert this summer. While that is definitely an option, you can also go see a lot of really great local bands. Check out Hamilton Street Pub in Saginaw, O's Pub & Grill in Auburn or Jake's Corner Lounge in Bay City. You might just find yourself singing along in no time!

3. Festivals & Expos

There are so many awesome festivals and expos in the GLB region. From World of Beer Expo in Frankenmuth (pictured above) to Greek Fest in Saginaw to Tapped in Midland to KCQ Country Music Fest in Saginaw to Blues, Brews and BBQ in Birch Run. Grab your friends and make a day of it!

4. Go Wine Tasting

Now I know it's not in the Great Lakes Bay region, but Traverse City is home to some of the absolute best wine tasting tours, period. It's so worth it to plan a weekend getaway with your someone special and enjoy the finer things in life (make sure to taste the wine too ;))

5. Go to the Beach

Whether you walk hand in hand along the shoreline, swim and splash around in the water, lay out soaking up the sun, play beach volleyball or watch the sunset in each others arms, going to the beach is a perfect way to enjoy some quality time together this summer. There are a few local beaches but if you're okay with a bit of a drive, head up to Tawas for the day.

6. Have a Water Fight

Break out the water balloons, water guns, hose, sprinkler, buckets and all other reinforcements for this fun, refreshing way to cool off from those hot summer days. Whether you carefully plan out a sneak attack or spontaneously break out into war; this is a sure fire way to get a little goofy together this summer.

7. Dow Gardens

Experience the 110 acre landscape Herbert Dow developed over a century ago right here in Midland. It will truly take your breath away...seriously, if you have allergies, be careful. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy the live music but most importantly take in just how beautiful Michigan is.

8. Delta College Planetarium

Located in downtown Bay City, visiting the Planetarium is a great way to spend your afternoon. Inside they have a digital 360 theater, a rooftop observation deck and a magnificent lobby with a floor that displays the major star constellations. So, don't be afraid to shoot for the stars!

9. Go Garage Sale-ing

Now this one might not be for everyone, but personally, I love garage sale-ing. It's like a scavenger hunt or digging for buried treasure; you never know what you might find! Plus, you can learn a lot about someone from what they pick out at a garage sale.

10. Tubing / Kayaking / Boating

Cracking cold ones while you float down the river on a tube, leisurely paddling down the river in a kayak or jamming to your favorite summer hits on a boat; is there any better way to spend a summer day than on the water?! I think not!

11. Go to a Loons Game

In my humble opinion, baseball season is one of the best things about summer. So, take your date to a Loons game, get hot-dogs and beer and enjoy America's past-time.

12. Bay City Fireworks Festival

If you love fireworks and are looking for a great show to go see this summer, check out the Bay City Fireworks Festival. You won't regret it, trust me!

Whether you're married, engaged, single or 'it's complicated' all of the above things are a great way to spend a summer day. So, get out there and enjoy all this beautiful state has to offer! :)