Favorite Things to Do and Places to Visit in Northern Michigan

Hello Friends,

After starting up writing the ‘West Coast Shorter Wife‘ blog, it really hit me – my husband, Ryan, is the 1st in 6 generations of Shorter men to move out of Michigan.  So here we are living and working on the West Coast but you really can’t take the Michigan out of the man – nor would you want to.  He brings with him an unmatched work ethic and wonderful family values.

Each year we return to Michigan and I wanted to take a moment to share some of our very favorite things to do while we come home to visit the Michigan Shorter’s.

1.  A stop at Friske Orchard’s is a must if we fly into Traverse City! On our way to Petoskey we always take a quick pit-stop for some yummy cider.

2.  We love to visit Sturgeon Bay, North of Cross Village and finish up the day with a yummy dinner at Legs Inn. Legs Inn has a picturesque view as well!

3.  Of course Ryan does some hunting – whatever season it is while we are visiting – preferably bow.

4.  Morel Mushroom hunting is always at the top of our list, depending on when we visit. If you choose to do this go with someone who knows what they are doing – you don’t want to end up with a bad mushroom.

5.  Take out from Mighty Fine Pizza is always on the list!  Ryan’s favorite of all time.

6.  We always shop downtown Petoskey because it’s the best downtown shopping I’ve ever experienced. And it is so charming and the people are so friendly. I dream of shopping Grandpa Shorter’s all year long and can’t wait until we arrive to see what’s new. It is a huge treat when we arrive and if they drove me directly to the store, I’d be happy.

7.  My mother-in-law, Mari and sister-in-law, Jennifer always stop for lunch while shopping.  We love Jesperson’s (there pie is so yummy) and Julienne Tomatoes (best soup and sandwiches) just to name a few.  Petoskey has so many wonderful restaurants!

8.  Mackinaw Island is always a fun day trip if we can squeeze it in. An island with no cars is special and there are so many fun things to see and do. It’s a trip I always tell my friends about.

9.  We don’t usually get to visit in the winter but Boyne and Nubs Nob are on the top of the list if we do. We can’t ever get enough skiing in! Both ski parks are family friendly places and I know Ryan had a great experience growing up skiing there.

10.  Of course nights on the lake roasting marshmallows are the best way to reconnect.

What are your favorite Michigan stops and must do activities in Michigan?

Alex Shorter

West Coast Shorter Wife