Michigan Is Awesome. We Know It- And So Should You!

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From beautiful scenery, mouth-watering food, bubbly locales to fabulous gems and great lakes and the most beautiful beaches, these are just some of the few things that Michigan has to offer.

If you are looking for an adventure of a lifetime or consider having a break from all the stress at work, then off you go to Michigan. The state doesn’t just offer an individual the chance to be one with nature, but it also caters different fun and exciting activities perfect for friends and family members.

The natural scenery within Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes are some of the most beautiful and jaw-dropping views you’ll see. Moreover, it is also splendid for exploring and discovering new things. It makes a real change of the mood that will leave you craving for more.

There are many indoor and outdoor adventure and adrenaline rush activities you can do in Michigan that attractions like the super cool Laser Edge and The Lost City offer. You can also visit captivating museums and indoor play for children and other different fun and thrills for you, your friends, and your whole family.

Why Visit Michigan? Because We Are Not Ohio….

Michigan comes from the French word “Mishigamaa,” meaning “large lake.” Clearly Michigan is the home of the Great Lakes. Bordering four iconic lakes, Michigan is a place for breath taking scenery.

However, there is more to Michigan than these great lakes. Michigan is also a home of other breathtaking “hidden gems” that people would love to discover when traveling. Michigan is a state that consists of two peninsulas, the upper and lower peninsula.

Way before, Michigan is already widely known as the center of the United States automotive industry. It is the home of the country’s three major automobile companies. The lower peninsula consists of services, manufacturing and high-tech industries while the upper peninsula serves as a tourist destination because of its abundance of natural resources.

 

Be one with Nature Without The Hippy Vibe

 

 

• Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness is a good place for a hike and a feel of an outdoor excitement. It is made up of endless Lake Michigan horizon and more than 3,200 acres of tall, windswept dunes, marshland, and grassland.

Moreover, rare hemlocks and Juniper trees bring a heavenly scent all throughout. Nordhouse Dunes is a home to many animals such as deer, porcupines, coyotes, and various kinds of songbirds. It is also a home to endangered species like the piping plover and pitcher’s thistle.

 

Source: https://www.flickr.com/photos/mypubliclands/21586270024

 

 

• Headlands International Dark Sky Park

Considered as one of the nine dark sky parks in the world. The Headlands International Dark Sky Park is a six-hundred-acre parcel of land that consists of an uninhabited Lake Michigan shoreline and thick forest stretching around two miles.

Because of little light pollution in the area, you can see phenomenal starry skies. The place has been a prominent and influential place for astronomers, nature lovers, and photographers.

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• Alpena Shipwreck Tours

The Alpena Shipwreck tour is a two-hour ride in a boat through the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Moreover, the sanctuary contains a total of 50 wrecks. This place is a must-see for people who are interested in Michigan’s Great Lakes maritime history.

• Soo Locks

 

You can have a Soo Lock Boat Tour that will take you through the locks between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. Also, you can touch the side of the locks as you wait for the water to rise and fall.

You can also sail next to St. Mary Rapids and watch the fishermen by the hydro-electric plants. In totality, You can’t compare this kind of experience just by standing on the sidelines.

 

Source:https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e5/Tahquamenon_falls_upper.jpg

 

• Tahquamenon Falls

The Tahquamenon Falls is an enchanting waterfall found in the upper peninsula. It is the largest waterfall in Michigan and the second biggest fall east of the Mississippi. Moreover, it reaches 200 feet across and drops almost 50 feet.

 

• Leila Arboretum in Battle Creek

Take a stroll around the 72 acres lush garden located in Battle Creek, Michigan. The lush garden contains around 1,700 kinds of woody plants and a total of 25,000 plants including shrubs, trees, perennial and annual plantings. It also features purple coneflowers, daisies, and daylilies.

Source:http://blog.dog-berry.com/media/Tunnel%20of%20Trees%20102211.01.1280.jpg

 

• Tunnel of Trees

The heritage route traveling through Harbor Springs and Cross Village is an astounding display of northern hardwoods located along the roadway. It is often referred to as “Tunnel of Trees” because the trees are located very near to the road, creating an effect of traveling through a tunnel.

This mostly used route from Harbor Springs to Cross Village displays stunning vistas and dramatic curves and turns. Moreover, it is considered a  scenic view and is also good for pictures and the like.

Indoor Thrills Sound Fun

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• Detroit Institute of Arts Museum

The Detroit Institute of Arts Museum holds remarkable, prominent, and stunning masterpieces from known painters and artists. It includes landmark treasures by Matisse, Bruegel, and Van Gogh. Moreover, the museum contains works that span thousands of years, from contemporary art to ancient civilizations.

There are also works from Mexican artists as well as powerful symbols of Detroit’s soul monuments that reflect the supremacy of art and human imagination.

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• Baker’s Keyboard Lounge

Baker’s Keyboard Lounge is known as the World’s Oldest Jazz Club. It spans an 81-year history of presenting jazz music. Its history, furnishings, decorations and cozy intimacy make it the ideal spot to feel and reminisce Detroit’s remarkable music legacy.

 

• Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall

There is a glorious and grandiose history that surrounds the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Up until now it still continues to create inspiring, exhilarating, and heart-stopping music. The current director is Leonard Slatkin who gives an emphasis on American music.

The orchestra hall is the home of Detroit Symphony Orchestra, recognized for its legendary intimacy and acoustics, remains the best place to hear them create music.

 

Source:https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/eb/Greetings_from_Grand_Haven,_Michigan_(68437).jpg/640px-Greetings_from_Grand_Haven,_Michigan_(68437).jpg

 

• Stuff To Take Home

You should never end your trip in Michigan without bringing some of these wonderful souvenirs with you:

 

• Michigan Charm

This charm is a favorite souvenir in Michigan. Since every state in the union and different cities each have their charms you can purchase for anyone you know, Michigan also has its “Michigan Charm” that you can buy. This souvenir is better than those odd thimbles and other ornaments.

 

• Dried Cherries from the Cherry Republic

Delicious cherries are famous around Traverse City, Michigan. It is perfect for a sweet treat and souvenir for friends and family back home. This tasty treat is a local food to bring back.

 

• Postcard, Quarter and Stamp

For those who are fond of collecting postcards and stamps, this is definitely for you. Michigan gift shops and souvenir shops sell postcards which you can send to your friends back home. You can also buy one or even a set, which includes a quarter and a stamp for the state.

Takeaway

Source:https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/8d/Gfp-michigan-porcupine-mountains-state-park-river-sunset.jpg

Visiting Michigan should now be on your to-do bucket list. You’ll have a lot to do and a lot to discover when visiting Michigan. Because of its diverse breathtaking sceneries and its exciting and enchanting museums and orchestra halls, Michigan is a place worth the stay.

Even though Michigan was primarily famous for the three automobile companies, little by little, people are now appreciating the “hidden gems” that are in the Great Lake State.

Destinations such as Tahquamenon Falls, Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness, and Headlands International Dark Sky Park are intriguing and still continually inspiring people to visit and explore other parts of Michigan that were possibly forgotten.

About Livnfresh-

Livnfresh is a state pride clothing company that makes inspired designs. You love where your from? Go ahead, wear your heart on your sleeve.

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5 Fantastic Winter Activities in Traverse City [Local Friday Feature]

The snow is refreshing; you can feel the crisp of the air, and the field recreation is just too tempting to resist. The attractions are magnificent and breathtaking, and the whole place is a bit of a rush. No, I’m not talking about a place where the women instinctively flock to like the salmon of capastrano. It’s not Aspen… it’s Traverse City.

 

The winter playgrounds are calling your name. Love to ski? How about shop and drink a beer? Traverse City has it all for you to enjoy.  And who would ever forget the fact the dunes were named “Most Beautiful Place in America” (nominated by Good Morning America’s viewers)?

Traverse City is one of the most beautiful cities in Michigan. Aside from the fact that Traverse City is one of the largest producers of tart cherries, they also produce other fruits like grapes. As a significant contribution, Traverse City is also one of the hearts of wine manufacturers in the Midwest.

There’s no denying that Traverse City is an adorable, picture perfect place in the summer solstice. But can you imagine how beautiful it can be in the holiday season? When the white, solid, refreshing snow falls, it just seems like the coldness of the season beams in every visitor and traveler.

It’s unsurprising that people know there are tons of amazing things to do in Traverse City in summer and fall. But did you know that there are still other exciting things to do there when winter takes place?

Traverse City is also known for its finest outdoor recreation during winter. Here are some of those activities that you can take advantage of while you’re there:

Skiing in Hickory Hills

Your visit to the city of Traverse will never be complete without visiting the white and adventurous Hickory Hills which features eight distinct runs to drive your ski down. If you want to ski at night, you can also do so as it is available on seven of those eight runs.

Living in this place will be greatly appreciated by those who are snowboarders, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers of heart.  Staying here would be beneficial for those type of people as they don’t have to go and visit different towns any longer for them to experience the fun that outdoor recreation brings.

Shanty Creek Snowboarding and Skiing

Just about 40 minutes north of the city, you’ll be able to locate Bellaire village, where you can find Shanty Creek Resorts. You’ll be able to enjoy here even if you’re not some expert when it comes to snowboarding and skiing.

Beginners and even those who don’t have an experience with this will have that exhilarating feeling as this place offers different levels and for different ages as well. There are two distinct mountains that you can choose from for your snowboard escapade.

If you want a mixture of natural and challenging slopes, then the award-winning mountain may work best for you namely the Schuss Mountain. But for those who are staying in the place with their families and want to try the thrill of sliding down the slopes, then the Summit Mountain is what we suggest.

Nevertheless, both mountains can give you that exciting and revitalizing experience that only Shanty Creek can offer.

Mt. Holiday Ski Experience

Mount Holiday is known as they can provide all day memorable and fun experience for the whole family. Aside from that, they also feature 16 different kinds of runs. They also offer ski lessons, and you can even try snow tubing there as well.

Moreover, it is also very accessible as it is just a couple of minutes away from the downtown area but still offers the comfort and grandeur of staying in the town for your weekend getaway bonanza. We can guarantee that you will love how this place can give you a clean and worry-free environment.

However, you don’t have to be an athlete of winter solely just to enjoy this place. They also have festivals you might want to experience. Here are some of those:

Ladies’ Night

This event only happens in the eleventh of December every year. From five o’clock in the afternoon until nine in the evening.

Bring your girl besties in this unique festivals as many business establishments, and restaurants offer a variety of one of a kind food, clothes selections, jewelry and much more for you to have that stylish spirit without breaking your bank. Ring your girlfriends and make some sale and cocktail party!

 

Men’s Night

Of course, if they have a special night for the ladies, they also have a night for the gentlemen. Just a week interval after the Ladies’ Night, an acknowledgment for the men is up in the eighteenth of December.

The guys can enjoy an array of drinks in different restaurants and some special events in the downtown area. This occasion can be a perfect time for guys to find the perfect gifts. Let’s be honest fellas, the only reason we have Men’s Night is so we can buy the gifts our spouses picked out on Ladies Night.

Takeaway

Traverse City is one of America’s best places. TC is more than a summer-perfect place. Try visiting TC during the winter as it will give you the fun and refreshing feeling that you are looking for when you’re traveling. Do you have any experiences that you would like to share?

Livnfresh

Livnfresh is a Michigan based state pride clothing and apparel company. Our Michigan gear is original and clever. From the Orginal Michigan D Shirts to our “Lake Girl” clothing. We keep you stylish and comfy from the slopes to the bonfire.

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Micro Brew Festival Traverse City [Local Friday Features]

When is the 2017 MicroBrew Festival In TC?

• Saturday, February 11, 2017
  • 3:00pm: Early Bird/Brew Guru gates open
  • 4:00pm: GA gates open
  • 9:30: Last call
  • 9:45pm: Taps off
  • 10:00pm: Closing

Where is the Micro Brew Fest Location?

• Sara Hardy Farmer’s Market Parking Lots B & T at Grandview Parkway and Union Street
  TC, MI

 

LOCATION

Sara Hardy Farmer’s Market Parking Lots B & T at Grandview Parkway and Union Street
Traverse City, MI

Get Out And Do Something

Bored of the usual winter tradition? Have you watched everything on Netflix? Want to go somewhere that requires you change out of your pajamas? What if we told you we have the perfect suggestion for how you can enjoy the Winter season in TC?

 

What is there not to love when you spend your winter getaway up North in a beautiful setting, celebrating music and drinking crafted brews? So, where should you go? We’re talking about none other than Traverse City’s annual Microbrew & Music Festival!

 

Microbrew and Music Festival

For those who have never visited yet, big expectations about the famous Traverse City MicroBrew and Music Festival are welcome as it is a truly magnificent event. The festival is the center of a week-long series of craft beer events in Traverse City.

If you haven’t been there yet, it would be best if you have friends who know the place well for you to tour the whole town before the festival. If you are someone who loves the art of Michigan Beer, you would probably think that Traverse City is a bona fide paradise as every tourist would expect and prepare for something that the town has to offer in every visit you do.

 

Seven Monks Taproom

When you arrive there, we highly suggest you head directly to the great Seven Monks Taproom as they feature forty-six valves of different varieties of incredibly delicious craft beer. You need to try their Brewery Vivant and their Odd Side; both beers are from the west side of Michigan.

 

The Filling Station Microbrewery

Next stop would be The Filling Station Microbrewery. This brewpub is just actually new to the business of craft beer in the city of Traverse. But nevertheless, never underestimate The Filling Station as the place brags a cozy, free, and relaxing atmosphere and above all serves a good-tasting food.

 

Mackinaw Brewing Company

You should also try dropping by Mackinaw Brewing Company. This brewing company offers a happy hour for only two dollars. Although this brewpub offers tasty craft beer, you may try their Whitecap Ale which is usually in pair with a dip made up of baked whitefish.

The Microbrew Fest

After all the side trips, when you arrive at the venue itself for the Traverse City Microbrew and Music Festival, you would surely be amazed at how big the allotted space is for the festival and how long the line is at the entrance.

When you enter the gates, they will require you to wear the wristband you received via email. That is why you mustn’t ever forget it as it will serve as your ticket to the festival. They will never reissue another wristband on the day of the festival no matter what your reason is, be it an emergency or any other incident.

After you put the wristband, you will go to the next station to get some tickets for the drinks and a mini cup (just like the size of a cough-syrup sample). You will see that some of the visitors throw away the mini cup after that. You may now fall in line to another station where you can purchase a more satisfying glass or buy more drink tickets. Some of these bars might seem familiar from our, “5 Breweries in TC You Need To Visit” article.

Music Acts

Since it is a MicroBrew and music event, it would be impossible not to see some of Traverse City’s famous bands performing such as Billy Strings and those who loves Michigan rockabilly, Delilah DeWylde, and the Lost Boys.

Enjoy the Festival

Let me ask you one real question. Since the festival offers a lot of choices that may overwhelm you, which do you prefer? Try different beers as many as you can in just half-full glasses and wait for an extended period in the line or just enjoy to the fullest with not so many kinds of craft beers?

As much as you are excited to try all the beers that you love (may it be a different and expensive list of breweries), believe us, you can’t. Some of the visitors tried that, and they ended up not living the party to the fullest.

Another good thing about the festival is that it supports tons of local artists, small businesses, Michigan’s art and entertainment and even hotels and motels. This event is not only solely for visitors but to boost each industry in Michigan.

Takeaway

The Traverse City MicroBrew and Music Festival is a great event that would surely make your holidays a lot more fun and exhilarating. It is one fantastic festival that intends to unite every community bonded by good food, amazingly delicious craft beer, a good dose of music therapy and of course, fun for everyone.

Do you have any personal experience that you would like to share? Share it down in our comment box! As always this segment appeared in our “Things To Do in Michigan” and our Friday features. For more Michigan Love, check out Livnfresh.com

 

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You Need To Check Out These Restaurants In Lansing Michigan [Local Friday Features]

Welcome to Lansing. The Capital of Michigan. Lansing is a thriving town, with places and restaurants its people are proud to brag about. It is home to the Michigan State Spartans. And if I’m honest, I kind of like the MSU logo. Don’t tell my family.

If you plan to visit Lansing of these days, here are four of Lansing’s most visited restaurants with food to die for because of their unique flavor and atmosphere.

The Most Visited Restaurants In Lansing Michigan

 

1. Golden Harvest Restaurant

Courtesty Golden Harvest’s Facebook Page

This restaurant has people waiting in long lines. Food is delicious, and they serve in generous portions that you can’t help but share.

Golden Harvest is not your usual restaurant. No, you are not going to get in a classy restaurant with classic music. It doesn’t look so inviting on the outside unless you’re curious enough to fall in line. The restaurant owner boasts about nothing but the food they serve and the people who go there agree.

The place has an odd and eclectic design which adds to the overall atmosphere they are trying to create. They have loud and funky music and excellent and energetic ambiance.

You might not want to come here alone, though. But if you feel like going out and being adventurous for one day, you can stop by, fall in line by 7 am and talk with strangers for an hour while waiting.

Since waiting in line is going to be long, if you are in your usual morning rush, then this isn’t the place to go. But it has more than 200 reviews on Trip Advisor and has a certificate of excellence label, and its food is definitely off the charts.

But just to set expectations right, waiting for the food you ordered may also take up to one hour. On a lighter note, it means you have an opportunity to talk and bond with friends and family.

The music is loud, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a good conversation. However, it is not an ideal place for business-related conversations. But it provides you with an experience you can’t miss when in Lansing.

They have different sets of menu each week and has different specials for each day.

The place closes early at two o’clock in the afternoon, but since the line is long, you can expect them to cut at 12:30 pm, especially when there’s just too many for them to cater. Bring coffee or water to drink while waiting, wear something weather appropriate and most importantly, bring cash because they don’t accept anything else.

 

2. Soup Spoon Cafe Restaurant

   

   Courtesy Soup Spoon’s Facebook Page

This restaurant boasts of its artisan food which looks as perfect and mystifying as Picasso’s paintings.

Just like any other Lansing fave, this restaurant also has people waiting in line for them during lunch and dinner rush hours. It is rated number one in TripAdvisor, with over 400 reviews. As the name itself suggests, they serve great soups and have different menus for each meal.

Remember, their menu for lunch isn’t going to be available for dinner so expect not to see your favorites if you visit on a different hour. They apply a particular technique or style for every meal, and that makes the restaurant stand out.

The place is our typical restaurant, doesn’t look so classic and you can call for a reservation in case you don’t want to wait during rush hours. They have friendly service, which is common in every review and their bartenders are ready to entertain your questions.

Most importantly, they serve locally sourced food, and that means the ingredients are fresh. They have a vegan menu for vegan customers. And it is surely a great place for night outs.

They have a small space, but it is not full all the time.

 

3. Zaytoon Mediterranean Grill Restaurant

via Zaytoons Facebook Page

Zaytoon is not the only restaurant in Lansing that serves Mediterranean dishes, but when you mean Mediterranean plus Lansing, then this is the place to go.

They won’t be number 4 in Trip Advisor for no reason, and they have the right to boast about it. Zaytoon has more than three hundred reviews, a certificate of excellence and a great crowd of loyal customers.

There are three things that you will love about Zaytoon. First their pleasant, friendly and efficient staff. Customer service is something they are expert with and that is what makes them stand out over any other restaurant in Lansing.

Second is their fantastic food and their fast service. Zaytoon has hearty servings that you can share. They have vegan options, and they serve one of the best Hummus there is in town.

Lastly, is the incredible price, clean area, and sophisticated decor and atmosphere. You will get the value you expect for your money, and they keep the place clean and shiny. Zaytoon also has this sophisticated modern design that is something you’d want for your house.

The only caveat though is their cafeteria style of service. You will have to fall in line, order, pay for your food, and bring it to your table. Nonetheless, you can still get a seat and table right away.

4. Lansing Brewing Company

   

   Courtesy Lansing Brewing Facebook Page

If you are looking for great craft beer, then this is the one thing you should look for on the list. If you follow our blog, you will notice that Lansing Brewing Company appeared on our list of The 5 Best Lansing Breweries. So yeah, we like it!

LBC offers a variety of great-tasting beer. Angry Mayor is their best seller with hops that make it top of the line.

They have a great menu, large portions of servings, with quality ingredients and beautiful plating. If you are looking for meat, divine meat, and more meat, they have it.

They serve the food hot, and the Cuban sandwich is something you can look forward to when you go there for a meal.

They are at the heart of the ballpark areas, a central location, accessible to anyone after games. Because of that, they have a spacious parking area.

The place is something that makes it stand out. The place has a somewhat industrial feel, but it has a spacious seating with a laid back outdoor setting, a fireplace, and most importantly their corn hole for games. It is perfect for groups, and they have a great space for parties.

The corn hole is an answer to boredom while waiting for a ready table. But LBC also has a live music stage band you can dance to and sing along with while drinking your beer. Just don’t expect the place to be excellent for business-related meetups because it can get pretty loud in there.

They have a kids menu, and the kids’ noise isn’t going to embarrass you because LBC’s noise is going to drown theirs. They have giant TV screens all over the place so you can watch games while eating.

LBC is a great place with fantastic drinks (beer, wine, and spirits) and fabulous food.

Lansing is a product of constant efforts by its people and government. It offers great places, food, culture, and an enjoyable environment. The restaurants above are only just a few of the much incredible it has. It is too bad that Lansing doesn’t have a better sports team to root for….

 

Just kidding! Or am I?

 Livnfresh is Michigan T Shirt and Apparel Company. We love Michigan and we love the Mitten State Pride.

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