The Secret of Miner’s Beach at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Midwest Nature

Our big trip this summer was camping completely around Lake Michigan – but when I read about the shipwrecks and Miner’s Beach in Munising, Michigan it quickly became the #1 spot on my list to stay and explore. And I was not disappointed – there are so many beautiful things to do in Munising! Even though it rained and stormed most of the time we were there we didn’t let that deter our adventures. I grabbed my GoPro and ran down to the shoreline! Absolutely stunning nature there. (Do NOT MISS these 2 cruises right in Munising – shipwrecks, waterfalls and caves!)

After spotting Miner’s Beach on Pinterest I KNEW it was on our list to see. My fear, however, was that this stunning little waterfall would be somewhere off the beaten path that we wouldn’t see so I made sure to stop at the Miner’s Castle ranger station to ask about it before we headed down to the beach. It is located inside of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

So I’ll spoil the tip for you right in the beginning of this post! When you head down the stairs to Miner’s Beach walk to the right of the stairs on the beach until you can’t walk any further – there you’ll find a stunning cove of rock ledges and the beautiful waterfall I found on Pinterest! (go east!) The rock ledges were awesome to climb around on but unfortunately we couldn’t make it right over to the waterfall. At the time we were there the water was too high and the waves and rip tide were too dangerous for me to feel comfortable wading over there with the kids. It was still worth the hike over there to check out though!

This was my first trip to Lake Superior and I was absolutely blown away with how clear and blue green the water was! You’d think we were in Mexico (minus the bleach white beach sand!) because the water color and clarity was so stunning. And cold of course – but the cold water didn’t deter my kids! All week I gushed over how amazing the views and lakeshore was in the area. We also went on the Shipwreck Tours boat as well as the Pictured Rocks Cruise which are both well worth it….and also another post worth!

We spent several hours there hiking up and down Miner’s Beach. I have to say though that I was NOT prepared for how difficult it was to walk in the sand there and how dangerous the riptides were the day we went! We didn’t go very far into the water because of the unpredictable waves – made worse by the cruise boats back and forth every half hour or so. So do be cautious of the weather patterns and conditions on the water when you go!

I took this with my GoPro Silver just so you can see how clear the water is! No special filters or anything! It was absolutely amazing!

Although you can’t take any rocks from the lakeshore it didn’t deter my kids from carrying them around and tossing them back into the lake all day. We found all sorts of beautiful chunks of granite and agates along with the occasional piece of sandstone. Just look at the color of the lake here!

I’ve been in Lake Michigan numerous times and expected Lake Superior to look similar but boy was I wrong! Untouched beauty.

If you’re headed to Munising definitely look up more spots on Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – there is plenty to see and do! Along with the 2 cruises I mentioned make sure to check out the many local waterfalls too. Wagner Falls is incredibly easy to get to and there are others you can literally stay in your car and drive right past. We picked up a waterfall map at the Shipwreck Tours office which nicely laid out everything we needed to see as a tourist.

Also downtown Munising you can picnic right off the lakefront with free parking near where you board for the Pictured Rocks cruise. We were even able to pick up a small handful of sea glass right on the shore there! Munising Falls is another easy to see waterfall location that seems popular in the area as well. If you’re looking for an extremely family friendly campground check out Otter Lake Campground – it was great for families with children.

Here’s a list of many of the waterfalls in the Picture Rocks area.

The Secret of Miner’s Beach:

Photo credit NPS

Imagine sitting on the edge of this rock amidst the waterfall and taking in the incredibly breath taking view of Lake Superior – with no one else around. This secret waterfall at Miner’s Beach is a fabulous hidden gem that you can’t see from stairs leading down to the beach but it perhaps one of the prettiest spots you can stumble across from the lakeshore.

Photo credit NPS

Here you can see a view from above the hidden waterfall area at low tide. When it’s high tide you can still see the waterfall but Lake Superior comes above those rock ridges and the waves can be incredibly dangerous so take caution! You can absolutely see it though if you walk to the east end of the beach no matter what time of day it is though! It’s a fabulous hidden gem!

Heading to the Munising area?! Click below for more to do:

Things to See at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan

Big Cities Historical Midwest

There are SO many things to see at the Henry Ford Museum! I had never been to Detroit before but visiting the Henry Ford museum was #1 on my list to do! I visited on a cold snowy winter day so I can’t wait to go back in the summer and get the full experience! With over 250 acres to explore at the Henry Ford Museum you can easily spend an entire day, if not two or three, exploring the amazing historical artifacts and exhibits!

Henry Ford has a great interactive experience on their website that will help you find some of the top things to do at the museum but if you scroll below you’ll find that AND even more interesting things to see there!

Where is the Henry Ford Museum located?

The address for the Henry Ford Museum is:

The Henry Ford
20900 Oakwood Blvd.
Dearborn, MI 48124-5029

NOTE: There is plenty of parking and it is $6 unless you are a member or are there only to see one of the big screen films. You can bring strollers or to rent them there as well. You CAN bring your own food although there are also several great places to eat on site.

3 Key Areas of the Henry Ford Museum:

Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
Greenfield Village
Ford Rouge Factory Tour

What can Kids do at the Henry Ford Museum?

Rubbing Stations

Even if I am traveling by myself I always note the kid-friendly activities, and the Henry Ford Museum totally ROCKED at kids stations! Throughout the museum are these “Create a Memory” stations with paper and crayons. Kids can lay the crayons own and make a rubbing from the metal plates that co-exist with the exhibits that they are near.

Mold-a-rama Wax Molds

Talk about a throw back from my childhood – I totally geeked out when I saw not one or two of these Mold-a-rama machines but OODLES of them spread throughout the museum! I ended up with a wax mold of the Rosa Parks bus but there were Lincoln bust molds, Thomas Edison’s first lightbulb, the Weinermobile, Model T Fords and so many more! And a HUGE bonus – the machines take credit cards!

Build Model T in an assembly line experience

As you can imagine a lot of school groups come through the museum, although there were none the day I went. They had several assembly line stations set up in the museum for kids to work together and build things such as this wooden block Model T Ford car!

What is there to see at the Henry Ford Museum?

There is absolutely no way I can share with you all of the things to see in the Henry Ford Museum in one single post! No fear – I have created quite the list below for you to scroll through and read at your leisure of some of the things that interested me!

Rosa Parks Bus

Since I had never been to Detroit, or the Henry Ford Museum before, the only thing I knew at all was that the Rosa Parks bus was there in the museum. But I didn’t know secrets from the Rosa Parks story, or that this bus was found rotting away in someone’s backyard before it was fully restored for the museum! You can climb into the bus and even sit right in the famous seat where Rosa Parks refused to move from.

George Washington’s Camping Cot

George Washington, our first president, was such an interesting character! Being a camping fanatic myself I was pretty stoked about seeing all of this camping equipment owned and used by George Washington himself – including his sleeping cot! You can even see that the camping cookware is similar to what we use today!

Thomas Edison’s last breath

Legend has it that Thomas Edison requested an empty vial in which to capture his last breath in before he passed away. Whether this is true or not, one may never know! You can read more about this fascinating story over Wagon Pilot Adventures.

Dymaxion House

Yes! There is an entire house situated right inside the Henry Ford Museum! But it’s not just any house, the Dymaxion House was (and still is!) a futuristic house that was designed in the 1930’s! It is essentially a redesigned grain silo with moving parts and incredible innovation like its rainwater recycling center!

Presidential Cars

These is not one or two but NINE presidential vehicles INCLUDING the car that John F. Kennedy was riding in when he was shot. You’ll even see Teddy Roosevelt’s horse drawn carriage!

Lincoln’s Death Chair

After visiting Ford’s Theater a few years ago it seemed only fitting that I search for Lincoln’s chair that he was shot in which is encased in glass inside the museum. A somber piece of history to be certain but an important one nonetheless.

Amelia Earhart Plane and the Spirit of St. Louis

Like many kids growing up I was, and still am, fascinated by the personality, gusto and adventurous spirit of Amelia Earhart! I literally squealed when I saw the plane. I made it over to the planes wing (pun intended!) at the end of my visit. I was absolutely exhausted, but stepping into this part of the exhibit exhilarated me all over again! Make sure you explore every nook and cranny. Both Amelia Earhart’s plane (and clothes and luggage!) as well as the Spirit of St. Louis and others are located in a dark quiet corner behind a wall that’s easy to miss!

Wing Walkers

Straight from Wikipedia:

Wing walking is the act of moving along the wings of an airplane during flight, sometimes transferring between planes. It originated as a daredevil stunt in the aerial barnstorming shows of the 1920’s, and became the subject of several Hollywood movies. … Charles Lindbergh began his aviation career as a wing walker.

Wright Brothers Replica

Welcoming you into the flight exhibit is a massive stunning replica of the 1903 Wright Brothers flyer.

Geek Out Gaming Gear

My oldest son is an enthusiastic collector of retro gaming gear and totally freaked out when I told him that inside the Henry Ford Museum is an entire section dedicated to the Atari dump site!

Weinermobile

Ok there are SO many reasons to get excited about this giant Weinermobile! First of all, growing up my heart skipped a beat any time I saw this crazy big hot dog driving across the country. Even today my boys look for this goofy vehicle everywhere we go! It’s in the Henry Museum located right next to a retro cafe which is stellar! There is also a Weinermobile pressed penny machine as well as a Mold-a-rama wax station there too! Sadly I felt like the wax mold available was pretty generic and lousy looking so I didn’t get it but I think kids would love it anyway!

You’ll find this vintage McDonald’s sign and train car service as well as a play garage for kids to play mechanic…..

…..rows and rows of old locomotives…..

One of my favorites was the 1924 Fokker F. VII Tri-Motor Airplane, the Josephine Ford, which was flown over the North Pole by Richard Byrd! The list could keep going! There are a seriously impressive display of full sized planes – only rival to the Smithsonian itself.

You’ll also find at the Henry Ford Museum the Newcomen Engine which is the oldest known surviving steam engine, a kiosk from the World’s Fair, the first helicopter to use a single rotor design, TONS of antique vehicles, full size locomotives, industrial engines and equipment, model trains, and so much more! I seriously cannot even begin to tell you everything that I saw there. And I’m gonna guarantee you that when I go back it will be no less impressive and I’ll see even more! It’s a little overwhelming and utterly exhausting but I HIGHLY recommend you go if you get the chance!

Greenfield Village

Greenfield Village by itself is over 80 acres where you can find a recreation of Thomas Edison’s laboratory, the Wright Brothers shop, Henry Ford’s home & workshop, a one room schoolhouse, a glassblower shop, eat in a 19th century tavern, George Washington Carver’s cabin, ride in a Model T and steam locomotive and so much more!

Unfortunately because I went in the winter I did not get the chance to experience the Greenfield Village yet but I hope to go back and do this!

Ford Rouge Factory Tour

The Ford Rouge Factory Tour is a five-part tour which requires an additional ticket. This ticket includes a behind-the-scenes of the Rouge complex, a look at the history of the Rouge through historic video footage, a virtual reality theater experience, a walking tour of the factory’s Living Roof and a walking tour above the actual final assembly area where Ford F-150s are made.

Beautiful Art Murals of Detroit, Michigan and Eastern Market

Big Cities Midwest

This year I visited Detroit, Michigan for the first time and I was blown away by how beautiful and artsy the city is! These beautiful art murals of Detroit listed below are just a tiny fraction of what you will find throughout the city! From the Eastern Market art murals to the the Belt Alley and Heidelberg Project, you could spend an entire week hunting down and admiring some seriously talented art in Detroit!

Eastern Market Art Murals in Detroit:

The Eastern Market in Detroit is one of the oldest and largest year-round public markets in the United States. It’s actually a non profit organization that builds tremendous community support in the local area. They feature hundreds of vendors acquiring tens of thousands of visitors during peak season and is open year round!

As you walk or drive around the neighborhood you can’t help but be amazed at the local talent featured throughout town. So grab some fresh healthy market produce and enjoy the art while you’re there!

This unique art piece is perhaps one of the most colorful that I discovered.

This is a strong piece that resonates well with the growing Detroit art scene.

This haunting artwork is one of my favorites.

There are actually two of these awesome sharks nearby the Eastern Market, unfortunately both behind construction fences! I can absolutely see this piece engulfing the side of an aquarium somewhere!

*There are SO MANY more art murals in the Eastern Market area that are not shown here! Between the FREEZING cold winter weather when I visited and time constraints I couldn’t possibly photograph them all!

What is the Heidelberg Project in Detroit?

The Heidelberg Project is a unique community art installation that you can see right from your car. This art project began back in 1986 when Tyree Guyton returned back to the neighborhood and decided to turn this drug-ridden area around in a positive way. By 1988 the vision was to inspire people to appreciate and use artistic expression to enrich their lives and to improve the social and economic health of the greater community.

Although met with some heated debate, the Heidelberg Project is constantly spreading and evolving and now includes nearby vacant lots, abandoned houses, sidewalks, fences, and pretty much anywhere else available that you can find.

A Glimpse of the Belt Alley in Detroit:

This impressive alley in downtown Detroit is known as the Belt Alley. Nestled between some great shops and pizza restaurants in Detroit, there are some truly beautiful art pieces down this quiet alley! You can learn more about the artists and new art commissions on their Facebook page here.

Where to Eat Pizza in Detroit (Gluten Free Vegan options!):

Where to Eat Pizza Tour of Detroit: With Gluten Free & Dairy Free Options

Big Cities Midwest

Recently I took a road trip to Detroit for the first time to meet up with my girlfriends and I discovered that not only can you get their famous Detroit pizza (more details on that below!) but you can also find New York pizza AND Chicago pizza downtown! A special thanks to Visit Detroit for hosting and coordinating much of our trip.

To complicate matters a little bit I am on a dairy free AND gluten free diet thanks to allergies, and one of my friends is also gluten free only. Our third friend – lucky girl – enjoyed all of the regular pizza for us! SO not only will I share with you three awesome pizza joints in Detroit below but you’ll see photos and details about their regular pizza as well as any gluten free and/or dairy free options. I found Detroit to be incredibly allergy friendly which was surprising!

1. Buddy’s Restaurant & Pizzeria – Detroit Pizza

If you’re from Michigan than you’ve probably heard of Buddy’s Restaurant & Pizzeria, but if you’re a Michigan noob like me then Buddy’s is a fabulous new discovery for you! We visited the original Buddy’s Pizza location at 17125 Conant St in Detroit.

What My Friend Ate (Detroit Pizza):

What is Detroit Pizza?

Detroit pizza is gaining traction quickly and for good reason! This would be my favorite style pizza hands down! It is essentially a square or rectangle pizza typically baked in an industrial pan instead of a pizza pan and is made with extra thick dough and caramelized edges. The origins of Detroit pizza can, of course, be traced back to Buddy’s in the 1940’s! They put their cheese on first, then the toppings and sauce on top of that!

The salads are pretty amazing and come in large bowls and you’ve got to try the house dressing! It’s just fabulous!

What I Ate (Gluten Free Dairy Free):

So the sad tale of woe for me at Buddy’s Pizza is that their gluten free crust DOES have dairy in it (although you can certainly always ask when you go just in case!). So although Buddy’s has a fabulous extensive selection of gluten free pizza options, there are no dairy free crust options available.

Since Buddy’s was hosting our dinner they definitely went the extra mile and created a dish for me (not on the menu) that was both gluten free and dairy free so it’s certainly worth asking about! They created a fajita style chicken salad for me which was AMAZING! The chicken was absolutely delish!

There is a lot of room at Buddy’s so if you’re putting together a party or family meet up there are some great options here for you! Learn more about Buddy’s and check out their menu here.

2. Mootz Pizzeria + Bar – New York Pizza

Located at 1230 Library Street in Detroit, Mootz Pizzeria is brand new on the block and just opened in late January! Here you’ll find New York pizza with an impressive full service bar inside as well as an adjoining “pizza by the slice” shop Side Hustle. It’s located near the opera house and downtown sports venues and of course is practically next door to Belt alley.

Their pizza dough takes several days (yes days!) to perfect in the fermenting process before cooking in one of several gas fired ovens which you will see when you walk inside. This allows complex starches to be broken down making it easier to digest and less sugar to be added to the dough making it also lower carb and healthier than regular pizza dough.

The seating area is very crisp and trendy which matches perfectly with the gourmet flavors on the menu. Mootz Pizzeria has the edge on the Detroit market not only for being the ONLY option I found with both gluten free AND vegan options but also as one of the only locations in Detroit where you can buy pizza by the slice to go! Side Hustle has weekend hours through 3AM so it’s definitely easily accessible when that pizza craving hits.

What I Ate (Gluten Free Dairy Free – Vegan Cheese):

I ordered the Pitt Master gluten free pizza with vegan cheese. It had pulled pork, bacon, spring onion, homemade BBQ, and pickled red onion. A normal Pitt Master also normally has mozzarella. It was AMAZING! I’m not going to lie, I teared up a little eating this pizza! It was my first “real” pizza since discovering my dairy and gluten allergies 6 months before.

When we went to Mootz their menu didn’t mention vegan cheese so just asked – they definitely have it! Their gluten free crust at the time that I went also did NOT have dairy in it!

What my Friend Ate:

Remember that friend that I told you could eat any pizza? Yep – she ordered the Popeye from Side Hustle which had fresh spinach, garlic, ricotta, mozzarella, and aleppo chili. The photo above it what their regular pizza looks like. It looks SO delicious – my friend Deb said it was to die for! True New York pizza in Detroit!

What my Friend Ate (Gluten Free):

My friend Becky ordered the Juliet gluten free pizza which has prosciutto, fig jam, gorgonzola, mozzarella, and a balsamic glaze. It look incredible!!!

Mootz has a full service bar and if you can see in the middle back of this photo you’ll notice there’s a crazy amount of tap spigots! They all work! The counters are lined with specialty syrups and everything else you need for a perfect drink. Under the bar counter are hooks for your purse too!

You can enter Side Hustle without needing to enter the sit down Mootz Pizzeria to grab your slice of pizza on the go. They also have beverages for sale if you’re grabbing a quick lunch or late night snack!

Another must note point of Mootz is that it is a CASHLESS restaurant. They only accept debit and credit cards. It’s a fantastic restaurant and whether you’ve had New York pizza or not, this new hotspot in Detroit is definitely worth a visit!

TIP: When you check out make sure to ask them to validate your parking ticket for Z Park which is where we parked!

Find Mootz Pizzeria + Bar on Facebook here!

3. Giordano’s – Chicago Pizza

If you’ve spent time around the Midwest at all you’re probably pretty familiar with Giordano’s pizza. I know this Chicago style pizza has been infiltrating the south as well the past few years and for good reason! If you’ve not experienced Chicago style pizza, it’s a very thick ultra cheesy pizza with sauce on top.

What I Ate (Gluten Free Dairy Free):

While Giordano’s does have gluten free pizza, there are not a lot of dairy free options to be had here at this restaurant. However, I will say that I order their chicken wings every time and they are to die for! Seriously good wings here!!!

What My Friends Ate (Gluten Free):

So Giordano’s pizzas are big enough to feed a crowd. Since all three of us had different allergy needs we definitely didn’t want to order 3 pizzas! So aside from my chicken wings, our table also ordered the gluten free pizza at Giordano’s which they said was fabulous! It sure looked amazing!

The interior was very stylish and the location was conveniently located downtown with parking nearby on the street.

There is also a good sized bar area as well!

Looking for more awesome things to do in the Detroit area?

Check out:

Belle Island
The Henry Ford Museum
Pewabic Pottery
The Whitney Ghost Bar
Feather Bowling at the Cadieux Cafe
Heidelberg Project
Willis Show Bar
the People Mover
Belt Art Alley
Eastern Market Art Murals

4 Amazing Things to Do at Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island

Historical Midwest

Last summer not only did we have an amazing adventure on Mackinac Island in Michigan thanks to the Mackinac State Historic Parks but it was my FIRST TIME on Mackinac Island! If you’re debating whether or not to go – just do it! Not only does it make a romantic getaway and a fabulous girl’s getaway, but there are tons of free things to do on Mackinac Island. Below are 4 amazing things to do at Fort Mackinac.

Frequently when we travel we have a historical location on our “to see” list, and Fort Mackinac is no different. Not only is the location on the island make it a stunning view as you are exploring but the scenic view from the top of Fort Mackinac is unparalleled on the island. Even if you are not interested in the history of the fort, or history in general, I still highly recommend spending the time to walk around the fort.

There are some surprising and unique things to do in Fort Mackinac that you can’t do anywhere else on your journeys! Below are just 4 amazing things you can do in Fort Mackinac! (PST – Fort Mackinac is pet friendly!)

Shoot a Cannon!

If you’ve ever wanted to shoot a historic cannon on the top of a historic fort then FORT MACKINAC IS YOUR PLACE!!! NO – I’m not kidding! You’ll need to make sure you set up a reservation here, and there is an extra fee, but this is by far one of the coolest historic things you can do!

Take a Close Look at a Paper Mache Brain Model

After I’d made it through most of Fort Mackinac I rounded a corner and literally almost walked into this 1800’s incredibly delicate and detailed paper mache brain! What a delightful surprise! I have a degree in Biology and am a science nerd at heart so this was one of the coolest things I remember from my visit to the fort!

Gobble down a Pecan Ball at the Tea Room

Happiness comes in the form of a Pecan Ball in Fort Mackinac. And the view will knock your socks off. The Tea Room is located right inside of Fort Mackinac. Sit at one of the tables outside (there’s no indoor dining), look out over the island and watch the barges go through the straits. It’s simply perfection. And trust me when I tell you at LEAST 3 people can split a Pecan Ball. It’s really sweet!

Explore the Kids Quarters

I have been in children’s museums and historical museums all over the country and Fort Mackinac has one of the most interactive children’s areas I’ve ever seen! It’s absolutely fantastic and the location up towards the top of the island can’t be beat! It comes with an incredible view! While I was touring an elderly group discovered the children’s quarters and you should have seen the running around playing with everything! It was just fabulous! It certainly had my reaching out to touch things and interact with the displays.

Watch the cannon in action:

Other Michigan Adventures:

5 “Must Do” Girls Getaway Activities on Mackinac Island

blog Midwest

I had the chance to explore on Mackinac Island in Michigan thanks to a press event that I was invited to. Now I’m dreaming about going back….pretty much all the time! In fact my time spent there felt more like a girls getaway which inspired me to write this article! If you’re looking for the perfect girls getaway location then you absolutely need to head to Mackinac Island. Don’t even think twice – just go!

Below are 5 amazing places, views, and things to indulge on while on Mackinac Island. PLUS there are TONS of free things to do on Mackinac Island too!

5 Girls Getaway Ideas on Mackinac Island:

Heaven right here! This Lavender Hibiscus Lemonade at Bistro on the Greens at @missionpointresort is AMAZING!!! I wish I had a gallon of it! Not to mention the view is stunning! #thisismackinac #MackinacIsland #meetmackinaw #MakeItMackinac #midwest #island #islandlife #drinks #lemonade #alcohol #flower #travel #ipulledoverforthis #relax #yum #PureMichigan #goodeats
A post shared by Exploration America (@explorationamerica) on Jun 20, 2018 at 11:42am PDT

1.Bistro on the Green at Mission Point Resort – OH MY GOD! The Lavender Hibiscus Lemonade is freaking AMAZING! I am NOT a lavender fan at all but holy heavens you have to try this drink! Seriously – hop on a horse & carriage taxi when you get off of Shepler’s Ferry and head straight over to Mission Point Resort. The view is unbeatable on the island and it’s absolutely the perfect way to start your stay! PLUS – it’s dog friendly AND a little known secret – head down to the Reserve for wine, artisan cheeses & charcuterie boards – it’s cozy and perfect for your girls get together!

This is my life right now at @Mission_Point – full service spa. AND they have a relaxation room open ALL day!! #thisismackinac #PureMichigan #MakeItMackinac hosted pic.twitter.com/1RHdsIg6Ks
— Exploration America (@explorationusa) June 18, 2018

2. Lilac Spa Treatment at Lakeside Spa & Salon – Who doesn’t love a spa treatment!? What sets the Lakeside Spa & Salon at Mission Point aside is that you have access to the spa area to relax ALL DAY LONG. That’s access to a sauna, cold refreshing water, and the biggest most comfy chairs to lounge on while you enjoy the day away. I highly recommend their signature Lilac Facial and Body Treatment if you want to indulge in full luxury and relaxation. While you’re at Mission Point Resort make sure to pick up your free tulip bulbs for your garden and pat Nick on the head!

3. Ryba’s Fudge Shop – A trip to Mackinac Island isn’t complete without a trip to Ryba’s Fudge Shop. And who doesn’t need a little chocolate in their lives?! Not only can you indulge in all sorts of delicious samples and of course pick up delectable goodies to enjoy over your trip but you can watch fudge being made right inside the shop!

4. This View from the Tea Room in Fort Mackinac. This is my FAVORITE view for lunch on Mackinac Island. The Tea Room, located inside Fort Mackinac, offers one of the most amazing views on the island – and the food is incredible! Kick back and relax ladies – sipping tea and indulging on their famous Pecan Ball has never been more relaxing! But for real – you NEED to order the Pecan Ball – even if you aren’t hungry – order it. You won’t regret it. Vanilla ice cream rolled in pecans and drizzled and smothered in Mackinac Island fudge chocolate…..MMMMMM!

5. Sip n’ Sail Cruise – This lush little piece of heaven will make your evening UNFORGETTABLE! From bourbon cruises to craft beer cruises and everything in between – enjoy outside on the deck or inside their heated cabin as you sail around the Mackinac Bridge. A boat, sunset, and on the lake – what more do I need to say to entice you?! More details here.

Do you have other amazing ideas for a girls getaway on Mackinac Island? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think should be on the itinerary!

Check out these other popular Michigan travel posts:

things to do on Mackinac Island for free

shipwrecks, caves and lighthouses Munising Michigan

Free Things to do on Mackinac Island: Travel in Michigan

Historical Midwest

I discovered these free things to do on Mackinac Island while staying there as part of a press trip.

I found a TON of free things to do on Mackinac Island when I visited last week – it was my first time on the island! I didn’t want to leave the island either to go back home – it was gorgeous! (the PERFECT girls getaway!) If you’re not familiar with Mackinac Island it’s a vehicle free place to be! There are NO cars, golf carts, or motorized vehicles (aside from wheelchairs) on the island. There are 3 main ways to get around the island: walking, biking, or horse and carriage taxi.

If there is ONE THING I can recommend to you while visiting Mackinac Island – LEAVE THE MAIN DOWNTOWN STRIP! If you love just sitting in touristy shops all day then I suppose you may enjoy the downtown strip. But once you walk past that area the smell of horses fade, you begin to smell the lilacs (depending on the time of year), the breeze picks up and it’s stunning. The real beauty of island life is not found right when you get off the ferry docks but as you explore Mackinac Island.

Here are some of the things you can find around the island that are free to enjoy:

Mackinac Island State Park –

Did you know that Mackinac Island was the 2nd National Park in the USA? It later became Michigan’s first state park and is now cared for by the Mackinac State Historic Parks. The visitors center is located downtown across from Marquette Park and is free to walk through. Believe it or not the park covers 80% of the island’s land! There is over 70 miles of roads and trails including 50 interpretive panels throughout the park. Pretty impressive for an island only 8 miles around!

Below are just some of the free things to see on the island in Mackinac Island State Park. You might also want to pick up a copy of 100 Things to Do on Mackinac Island Before You Die!

Arch Rock – This rock arch towers 146 feet high and is up to 50 feet wide! This was #1 on my list to see and is a short hike (about 1/2 mile) from the top of Fort Mackinac through a beautiful forest. There are restrooms, hiking trails, and a scenic overlook there as well. If you can’t make the hike you can pay for a horse and carriage taxi right up to the top. Keep an eye out for the monument to Cass Lewis, a former governor of Michigan, U.S. Secretary of Way, Secretary of State and a U.S. Senator.

Sugar Loaf– This is the largest limestone stack on Mackinac Island measuring 75 feet high.

Robinson’s Folly– Another popular natural formation, this post here shares good information on additional features you can find hiking through the north end of the island near Mission Point Resort.

Flowers– This was my first time seeing Lady Slippers (above) and they were in full display when I was visiting in late June! You can find these and many other flowers scattered throughout the island.

Wildlife Searching– Although I only saw birds (and mosquitos!) during my time on the island you can search for these animals while out hiking depending on the time of year you visit: squirrels, chipmunks, bats, white-tailed deer, snowshoe hare, red fox, raccoons, gray squirrels, muskrats, weasels, coyote, and bobcats.

Bat Boxes– I don’t know how many bat boxes are on the island but I spotted two large ones on the way to Arch Rock.

Crack-in-the-Island– This fun photo opp area can be found while hiking and appears to be a fissure in the earth!

Cave of the Woods– Another small cave on the island with an interpretive sign with its history.

Anne’s Tablet Trail– This very short but beautiful hike starts up behind Fort Mackinac and leads you to an overlook of the Mackinac Straits. You’ll find a beautiful shrine to 19th century writer Constance Fenimore Woolson. On the way to the “tablet” you’ll also pass the Somewhere in Time gazebo.

Skull Cave– One of two caves on the island, this one is named after the skulls originally discovered in this small cave. It was used as a hideout in 1763.

Devil’s Kitchen– This cool cave is a great photo spot on the island and has stories supposedly rooted in Native American folklore. Black soot can still be seen inside from supposedly trying to burn out evil spirits.

*TIP – There are gorgeous hiking trails down off the water around Mission Point which are PERFECT for stunning sunrise views!

Movies at Mission Point Resort-

I stayed at Mission Point Resort on the north end of the island one night and it won my heart in an instant! The owner is AMAZING and loves to see people enjoying the resort! It’s very kid-friendly and quite affordable when compared to the other large island resorts. (PLUS it also offers pet-friendly lodging options!)

On site is a historic theater which runs FREE movies (including Somewhere in Time which was largely filmed on its stage) several times each week. In fact when I walked through there was a film playing – just walk right in and sit down! (you do not have to be a guest of the resort to enjoy this!)

They also have free movies on the lawn certain days throughout the summer that anyone on the island, not just resort guests, can come and enjoy!

Carriage Museum Self-Guided Tour –

By far the most ornate Carriage Museum I’ve been to and it’s free to tour on Mackinac Island! The Grand Hotel stables is roughly 8700 square feet. It’s a working stables dedicated to their 12 horses and a walk through self guided museum housing up to 20 vintage carriages.

If you’ve never walked into horse stables with enormous chandeliers hanging from the middle of the barn – you’ll want to make a stop here. In fact one of the vintage carriages have seated 5 different US presidents! It’s free to walk through any time the doors are open (roughly 8 am-5 pm).

Sit in adirondack chairs behind the public library-

I discovered these by accident while exploring the island! Behind the Mackinac Island Public Library is a row of adirondack chairs on their deck that you can sit in and curl up with a good book while watching the ferries and freighters pass by the island in Lake Michigan. It’s a great spot right in the downtown area to walk down the shoreline and enjoy the view.

Free Fudge –

When you say Mackinac Island many people immediately think of fudge, and for good reason. There are 16 fudge shops on the island! And many of these stores have FREE fudge samples! One of my favorites is Ryba’s Fudge Shop which is located near the ferry docks on the main strip. They are a family owned fudge shop, opened in 1936, and simply delish! (They are also part of the 906 Rewards Club.)

Somewhere in Time Film Locations –

The entire movie, Somewhere in Time, was filmed on Mackinac Island! Sadly there is no “pilgrimage trail” that tours you around the island but you can easily find a ton of spots to stop just with a quick search on Google. I noticed quite a few official “film stop” signs around the island. On the short hike to Anne’s Tablet Trail behind Fort Mackinac you’ll also pass by the gazebo made famous in the movie. The movie is shown free every week at the Mission Point Resort theater – open to the public! If you love this film free these spots are just some of the many free things to do on Mackinac Island!

Free Festivals, Concerts & Events-

The Mackinac Island Lilac Festival was going on when I visited Mackinac Island which was a real treat. Just walking throughout the island I constantly smelled the lilac fragrance as the flowers were in bloom. The Dog & Pony parade and grand parade were both fun to see! There are many many other festivals such as the Mackinac Island Fudge Festival, Vintage Bike Ride & Show and Macktoberfest.

Free concerts in Marquette Park are also popular throughout the summer! Keep an eye on the Mackinac Island calendar to see what’s coming up!

Free Governor’s Summer Residence tours –

On Wednesday mornings mid-June to mid-August you can tour the Michigan Governor’s summer residence for free! Listed on the Michigan Register of Historic Places in 1975, it has since been added to the National Register of Historic Places. The tour takes about 15 minutes.

Follow the Native American Cultural History Trail-

Read 6 interpretive panels discussing the history and impact of Native Americans on the Great Lakes as you bike (or hike) around the 8 miles of the island. Print out this map of the Native American Cultural History Trail before you go!

FREE Tulip Bulbs –

If you love gardening as much as I do – here’s a little known TIP! If you are staying at Mission Point Resort (Voted “Best Place to Stay” in Michigan by Conde Nast Traveler!) they have a garden cart parked outside the entrance to the resort where they let you take home as many FREE tulip bulbs as you want! They replant tens of thousands of tulips each year and offer their old

Playgrounds, Stone Skipping & Kite Flying-

If you’ve got kids then keeping then giving them some down time from all the walking on Mackinac Island is important! There are several playgrounds on Mackinac Island including one right in Marquette Park downtown in front of Fort Mackinac near the ferry docks.

Stone skipping off shore, kite flying, and nature scavenger hunts are also all popular kid’s activities on Mackinac Island that are free for families! You’re really only limited by your creativity. You’ll of course need to bring your own kite to fly or buy a kite.

Stuart House City Museum-

The Stuart House City Museum is free to enter but donations are appreciated. Located on 7342 Market Street this location was built in 1817 housed the resident agent of the American Fur Company.

If you know of other free things to do on Mackinac Island I’d LOVE to hear about them! Just leave us a comment below so that we can add it to our list! Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more adventures!

Buy these books on Mackinac Island:

Other Things to Do in Michigan:

Fascinating Facts & Things to Do in Petoskey, Michigan

blog Midwest

Chances are if you’ve looked on Pinterest or Googled “Things to Do in Petoskey, Michigan” you’ll be flooded with photos of Petoskey stones – and that’s exactly why we stopped in Petoskey last year on our way around Lake Michigan! We’re nuts about rocks, caves and anything outdoorsy. And the great beach at Petoskey State Park was a huge bonus! (pssst – they have 180 campsites there!) But there is SO much more to do in the area – some of them are downright weird, tasty, fun and quite educational!

Check out this AMAZING Petoskey stone jewelry!

So where exactly is Petoskey, Michigan? It’s in the Northwest corner along Lake Michigan. Last year we did a loop from Iowa all the way around Lake Michigan starting in Chicago, chilling in the UP for a week or so (check out our posts on The Secret of Miner’s Beach and the 2 MUST SEE Cruise Tours in Munising) then swinging our way down to Petoskey and along the lake further south. It’s an easy drive with plenty to do!

Things to Do in Petoskey:

1.- Ernest Hemingway spent 22 beautiful summers in the surrounding areas and every year in October there is a Hemingway Weekend packed full of tours, exhibits and celebration. Make sure to take a walking tour surrounding popular stops in Hemingway’s life – this area is where he first launched his professional writing career!

2.- Beaches & Petoskey Stones – Ok – I had to include this one JUST in case you didn’t know how gorgeous the area is! Beautiful white sandy beaches with soft rolling waves – we had a great time last year in the water! There are specific times of year that makes it easier to find the Petoskey Stones (AKA Hexagonaria percarinata) along the shoreline but during mid-summer we were able to find several small handfuls of these special fossils on the shelf line right off the shore. 3 places to check are Magnus City Park Beach, Petoskey State Park, and Zoll Street Beach. I absolutely adore these amazing handmade Petoskey stone jewelry pieces!

3. Original name- Petoskey was originally called Bear River in the mid-1800’s.

4. Elvyn Lea Lodge – Situated on 44 acres of wooded trails near Walloon Lake the Elvyn Lea Lodge is a getaway for nature lovers of all kinds. This cozy rustic lodge makes a great home base for your excursions throughout your stay. Tt offers rooms for individual travelers and it’s available to be reserved in its entirety by groups, making it a wonderful destination for retreats, workshops, or family reunions.

5. The National Shrine of Cross in the Woods & Doll Museum – The Doll Museum houses 525 dolls (and 20 mannequins) representing the Dioscesan clergy and OVER 200 religious orders of priests, sisters, and borthers of North and South America.

6. Headlands International Dark Sky Park – Less than an hour away is one of the country’s only dark sky parks (there are 20!) – the perfect place for viewing the skies at night! In fact if you’re lucky you’ll catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights (March & September are the best times)!

7. Duffy’s Garage and Grille – A unique hotspot located in Petoskey, this restaurant has some serious burgers, pizza, and oven grinders on its menu.

8. Roast & Toast – This artful cafe has amazing menu choices and even allows you to purchase their coffee blends online!

9. Symons General Store – No trip to Petoskey is complete with stopping in at Symons General Store for a peek into their stunning wine cellar! Or if your wine isn’t your think the home cooked food will make up for that!

10. McLean & Eakin Bookstore – If bookstores are your think then add McLean & Eakin to your list. Don’t forget to check the calendar to see if any of your favorite authors will be in!

11. Almost every natural landform in northern Lower Michigan is the result of glaciation during the Ice Age.

Interested in finding more places to eat and things to do in Petoskey? Visit the Petoskey Area Visitor Center and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or Instagram here!

Check out our other Midwest road trips:

Tips to Survive the City Museum St. Louis Missouri

Exclusive Access Inside the Historic Benson Ford Ship House

2 MUST TAKE Cruise Tours in Munising, Michigan

Historical Midwest Nature

If you’ve never been to Munising, Michigan it is quite truly a gem! If you’re a nature lover like our family this absolutely MUST be a stop on your road trip. There are numerous waterfalls (and maps of these waterfalls in local businesses!), beaches, and no shortage of nature. In fact Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is right there and is one of the most beautiful places in Michigan – all 100 miles of trails, cliffs, beaches, waterfalls, and more! Definitely leave enough time to explore some of the area. In fact these two cruise tours in Munising alone make it worth a road trip.

After spending many hours planning our road trip through Michigan we settled on two cruises in the Munising area – Shipwreck Tours and the National Pictured Rocks Lakeshore Cruise – both equally as beautiful and worth adding to your itinerary. Although I was a little hesitant on taking our active 1 year old on both cruises the same it ended up working out well!

Shipwreck Tours in Munising, Michigan

We started out our morning at the Shipwreck Tours in Munising off the shore on a dreadfully rainy day. It couldn’t have been a yuckier day – but thankfully the tour boat was completely enclosed and kept us dry! Traveling with a little one – I REALLY appreciated not being sopping wet and still enjoying this tour! In case you haven’t heard about this cruise it is a glass bottom boat that takes you over various shipwrecks on Lake Superior. TOTALLY something our family went nuts over and a cool experience my boys will never forget. Seriously – how adorable are they?!

There are 2 very large glass bottom window viewing areas which meant we had more than ample opportunity to stand there for the entire tour and stare down into the water. You can see my boys above – they can’t contain their smiles and excitement! There was also plenty of seats available so my husband and I rotated with our 1 year old to keep her occupied. Unfortunately seeing sunken ships was not really high on her to do list that day but she did well enough.

Viewing the shipwrecks really brought a surreal feeling. It’s something you might see in a movie – but in real life! What an incredible experience! This one of a kind tour in Munising is one I’d go to every time I visited if I could! Not only did we view several shipwrecks but the captain shared with us the history of these ships, pointed out specific pieces of the wreckage to us, and explained patiently what exactly we were looking at as we stared down into Lake Superior.

It’s definitely something I would want to do again! In fact some of these shipwrecks are just inches below the waters surface and open to snorkel to and explore!

While boating around to the various shipwrecks we also passed this old and stunning lighthouse.

It reminds me of a little old schoolhouse – plus the beacon on top of course! We actually saw this same lighthouse a second time on our Pictured Rocks Cruise which we took later in the day. We had enough time in between the two cruises to see a few waterfalls as well as enjoy Miner’s Beach. Make sure you check out our post on Miner’s Beach to learn about the secret you need to know before you go!

INSIDER TIP: Between the two cruises eat a picnic lunch at the covered pavilion right there on Lake Superior by the boat dock!

Pictured Rock Cruise in Munising, Michigan

The Pictured Rocks Cruise actually offer several options for your cruise from the shorter cruise, a longer one to see an additional waterfall (which we did) and even a sunset cruise! The boat is much larger than the Shipwreck Tours and you can absolutely sit inside for the entire cruise if you’d like or venture outdoors!

I LOVED the Shipwreck Tours cruise for it’s uniqueness but I came away totally in LOVE with the Pictured Rocks Cruise! It was stunning and picturesque! I didn’t feel like I was on Lake Superior in Michigan – I felt like I was on a coast somewhere!

The cliffs and rock formations were just stunning. Now remember, I am a freak about rocks but look at that turquoise water! It was incredible! I just couldn’t believe it!

Sea caves galore! Someday when my kids are older, or if I ever go back without the kids, I’d love to kayak around the shoreline in and out of some of these “sea caves”. Above you can actually see the observation platform at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. They look like tiny ants!

A word of caution, however, if you do decide to venture out on the lake in a kayak. I absolutely would not bring my kids with me – even though we are an extremely adventurous family. The water can be insanely rough and the waves are astronomical. There were times I didn’t feel safe just wading offshore because the waves were so vicious. Definitely know what the weather looks like and understand it can change in an instant – know what you’re getting yourself into!

The cruise was not only spacey and comfortable but also very informative.

Check out that water!

This was my favorite photo from the cruise! Doesn’t it look almost tropical?! I wanted to boat through that arch so bad!

Many of the various formations and juts of the cliffs had names.

We even passed closely by quite a few bird nesting areas!

This here is Battleship Row – named for the cliffs that jut out in a row that resemble battleships coming out of the shoreline.

Here’s a better view of Battleship Row.

It’s a cruise I would have loved to sit through and just enjoy but when you have 3 kids in tow that doesn’t always happen! It was freezing cold and rainy the day we went but we still managed a pretty cute selfie!

Remember how I told you we chose to go on that longer cruise to see the extra waterfall? This is it! This is Spray Falls which was neat to see. Is it worth the extra cost for this particular cruise as opposed to their regular one? EH – I’m a little indifferent on that. You aren’t missing much if you skip it and save the money but if you want a longer cruise than I’d go for it. The cruise was about 3 hours in total.

This was one of the most fascinating formations – if you look very closely you can see that there is a huge section of tree roots growing across the stone formations like a bridge!

Overall – I loved both of the tours in Munising for two different reasons. The Shipwreck Tours was more homey and is family owned. How often do you get the opportunity to see not just one shipwreck but multiple shipwrecks without needing to have a scuba diving hobby!? It was amazing! And you can’t beat the beauty on the Pictured Rocks Cruise! The scenic views were stunning! It’s a very relaxing tour in Munising and great for those that want to sit and take in the fresh air.

Cozy Michigan Gifts:

DIY Michigan State Earrings Travel Keepsake Jewelry

DIY

I love some of these state charm earrings to collect while traveling the country but for some of us DIYers who like to save a few bucks but still display our travels I wanted to put together this simple tutorial for you! This is also a great tween travel keepsake idea! You can buy state charms at Hobby Lobby or Amazon (or any other craft retailer) along with the supplies listed below to make your own DIY Travel Keepsake Earrings!

DIY Michigan State Earrings Materials:

Flat Nose Pliers
Sterling Silver Ear Wires
2 Michigan State Charms

DIY Travel Keepsake Earrings Directions:

1. Using your pliers, carefully remove the small round hook off of your Michigan charms
2. Carefully open the small round hook at the end of your ear wires with your pliers

3. Slide one Michigan charm onto each ear wire.
4. Now using your pliers again, close up your small round hooks.
5. Now your earrings are ready to wear and show off.

They match perfectly with this Michigan state necklace! You can do this with any state or travel theme that you want to turn into your own jewelry to show off! I also really like this Michigan state outline necklace! Put it in a fancy jewelry box and give as a gift!

The Secret of Miner’s Beach:

Heading to the Munising area?! Click below for more to do:

Where is the Henry Ford Museum located?

3 Key Areas of the Henry Ford Museum:

What can Kids do at the Henry Ford Museum?

Rubbing Stations

Mold-a-rama Wax Molds

Build Model T in an assembly line experience

What is there to see at the Henry Ford Museum?

Rosa Parks Bus

George Washington’s Camping Cot

Thomas Edison’s last breath

Dymaxion House

Presidential Cars

Lincoln’s Death Chair

Amelia Earhart Plane and the Spirit of St. Louis

Wing Walkers

Wright Brothers Replica

Geek Out Gaming Gear

Weinermobile

Greenfield Village

Ford Rouge Factory Tour

Eastern Market Art Murals in Detroit:

What is the Heidelberg Project in Detroit?

A Glimpse of the Belt Alley in Detroit:

Where to Eat Pizza in Detroit (Gluten Free Vegan options!):

1. Buddy’s Restaurant & Pizzeria – Detroit Pizza

What My Friend Ate (Detroit Pizza):

What is Detroit Pizza?

What I Ate (Gluten Free Dairy Free):

2. Mootz Pizzeria + Bar – New York Pizza

What I Ate (Gluten Free Dairy Free – Vegan Cheese):

What my Friend Ate:

What my Friend Ate (Gluten Free):

3. Giordano’s – Chicago Pizza

What I Ate (Gluten Free Dairy Free):

What My Friends Ate (Gluten Free):

Looking for more awesome things to do in the Detroit area?

Shoot a Cannon!

Take a Close Look at a Paper Mache Brain Model

Gobble down a Pecan Ball at the Tea Room

Explore the Kids Quarters

Watch the cannon in action:

Other Michigan Adventures:

5 Girls Getaway Ideas on Mackinac Island:

Do you have other amazing ideas for a girls getaway on Mackinac Island? Leave a comment below and let us know what you think should be on the itinerary!

Check out these other popular Michigan travel posts:

I discovered these free things to do on Mackinac Island while staying there as part of a press trip.

Here are some of the things you can find around the island that are free to enjoy:

Mackinac Island State Park –

*TIP – There are gorgeous hiking trails down off the water around Mission Point which are PERFECT for stunning sunrise views!

Movies at Mission Point Resort-

Carriage Museum Self-Guided Tour –

Sit in adirondack chairs behind the public library-

Free Fudge –

Somewhere in Time Film Locations –

Free Festivals, Concerts & Events-

Free Governor’s Summer Residence tours –

Follow the Native American Cultural History Trail-

FREE Tulip Bulbs –

Playgrounds, Stone Skipping & Kite Flying-

Stuart House City Museum-

If you know of other free things to do on Mackinac Island I’d LOVE to hear about them! Just leave us a comment below so that we can add it to our list! Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more adventures!

Buy these books on Mackinac Island:

Other Things to Do in Michigan:

Check out this AMAZING Petoskey stone jewelry!

Things to Do in Petoskey:

Interested in finding more places to eat and things to do in Petoskey? Visit the Petoskey Area Visitor Center and follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or Instagram here!

Check out our other Midwest road trips:

Shipwreck Tours in Munising, Michigan

INSIDER TIP: Between the two cruises eat a picnic lunch at the covered pavilion right there on Lake Superior by the boat dock!

Pictured Rock Cruise in Munising, Michigan

Cozy Michigan Gifts:

DIY Michigan State Earrings Materials:

DIY Travel Keepsake Earrings Directions:

Where we’ve been

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