Promote Michigan Blog

The sights, sounds and smells are sensory overload at times – but I love it. Maybe it’s the vibrant hues of red, orange and gold on the trees or the sounds of leaves dancing in the streets. Perhaps it’s the harvest menu filled with pumpkins, squash, soups and stews to help take off the chill in the air. It’s also the layering of clothing – the boots and jeans, with flannel shirts, vests and scarves, that draw me into this short but colorful season.

Michigan in home to countless noted bridges – the most famous being the “Mighty Mac” which connects the Lower Peninsula in Mackinaw City with St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula. Built in 1957, this modern marvel attracts thousands of visitors each Labor Day (and Memorial Day) to walk the five miles over the Straits of Mackinac in what has become a time-honored family tradition.

Did you know that Michigan has MORE lighthouses than any other state – at more than 115? Many of these beacons are registered as local, state and national historic sites; several operate active keeper programs; a few offer bed-and-breakfast accommodations; and many are rumored to be haunted! What is YOUR favorite Michigan lighthouse?

July is National Ice Cream Month…and here in Michigan, its big business! Hundreds of shops and parlors operate around the state, scooping up sweet treats to cool you off on those hot summer days! Did you know that Michigan ranks #5 in the nation for ice cream production? That’s a fact worth celebrating – each and every day this month!

For the past dozen years or so, I’ve been a treasure hunter – seeking unique Michigan travel items to decorate my home and office. From postcards and vintage maps to weathered road signs and license plates to books and board games, I’ve found some great items – each with a story to tell.

April showers bring May flowers…and in Michigan, that includes tulips, apple and cherry blossoms, dogwood, trillium and other spring wildflowers, among others. Rich in Native American heritage and lore, there are actually more than 40 varieties of trillium, which blanket the forest floors for a brief few weeks each spring.

Michigan is lucky enough to have plenty of places to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day – and the arrival of the spring season – throughout the month of March. Whether you’re on a quest for the best Irish stout, are seeking a heaping helping of corn beef and cabbage or are looking for a pot of gold at the end of the parade, look no further than Pure Michigan for some great Irish-themed ideas!

If you haven’t heard, I’m having a long-term love affair with Michigan! I love everything about the Great Lakes State – the two (+) peninsulas, four seasons and 83 counties. I love the people, places and products that are made here. I love the stories and songs. I love the history and the opportunities for the future. To celebrate the month of Valentine’s Day, it is fitting to share some of the romantic get-aways, restaurants and attractions that I think you’ll LOVE to explore (this month and beyond).

A good friend of the Michigan tourism industry, Joe Breidenstein, always said that there’s no such thing as bad weather…just bad clothes! In remembrance of that wise man, here are some great Made in Michigan wearables to help keep you warm on these beautifully blustery winter days (and nights).

My favorite holiday tradition is giving the gift of Michigan to family and friends. The catalog of “Made in Michigan” products is growing daily, providing countless opportunities to find that perfect gift for everyone on your list. Giving always makes me smile…but giving a gift crafted by one of the dedicated people of Michigan just means so much more.

You either believe in ghosts – or you don’t. Right? I guess, I personally believe in the theory of spirits – and if nothing else, the stories are exciting to share.

Autumn has always been my favorite season! The vibrant colors – reds, oranges, yellows – mixed with the cooler days and the aromas of the harvest. As a kid, I loved fall – because it mean it was time to return to school (yes, I realize how crazy that sounds).