our ideas

This last year has been one for the books. We’ve all spent a lot of time at home with our families, adjusting to work from home life, and probably the worst of all, homeschooling. The list goes on when you try to describe 2020. But, we’ve learned to balance our new way of living and remain positive through it all. Nonetheless, we are still pretty confined with winter and COVID-19 restrictions. However, the weather is getting nice again, which opens up a ton of new opportunities to do a little more outside.

We live in Lansing, so we are kind of fortunate to have or be within driving distance from a ton of fun outdoor adventures. It can also be difficult to travel right now, so why not explore our great state? We have plenty of fun things to do right here in Michigan. To make it easy for you, our team put together some outdoor adventures to take on right here in Michigan.

A Day on the River

It always makes for a fun day to ride or float down the Grand River. We have some local places, like River Town Adventures, to rent a kayak from where you can make a day out of your adventure. It can also be fun to grab your bike and ride for miles along with the beautiful scenery that is the river too. Enjoy the ducks, the wind in your hair, sunshine on your face, maybe even support a local business by grabbing lunch at one of your favorite outdoor spots.

Breweries, Wineries, Distilleries, Oh My!

Just as New York City is famous for a Starbucks on every corner, the same can be said for most cities in Michigan but with breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Swing by a couple of our favorite breweries like Ozone’s Brewhouse and Lansing Brewing Company, or if beer isn’t your cup of tea, be sure to try one of Lansing’s best distilleries at American Fifth or Michigrain Distillery. While we have a nice amount of local spirits here in Lansing, don’t worry, we have them all over Michigan (Traverse, Ann Arbor, Detroit, etc.). Most offer outdoor seating, so mask up, get out, and enjoy an afternoon of tasting with friends.

Hit One of the Lake Shores

You don’t have to have a boat to enjoy the beautiful summer lakeshores of Michigan. Hit the coast for a day of sun at the beach with the kids or a group of friends. Catch a sunrise or sunset over Lake Michigan and hit the sand dunes while you’re there because why not? Head over to Petoskey hunt Petoskey stones with the kids. Pack up a nice lunch and have a picnic on the beach. We have plenty of lakeshores here in Michigan to give you outdoor summer adventures you won’t forget! Plus, there is plenty of room to have your own space, away from others (at least most days).

Explore the Upper Peninsula

The beauty of the Upper Peninsula is one to check out. The numerous state parks make for a great day trip or a full camping getaway. Grab your hammock or pack up the kiddos for a fun getaway to some relaxing rivers, waterfalls, and beautiful Michigan scenery. Don’t forget to head over to Pictured Rocks while you’re up that way, and it is definitely a sight worth seeing while up north.

Living in Michigan, the possibilities for outdoor summer adventures are endless. Whether you’re up north, on the west side, or down by Detroit, there are plenty of amazing places to explore around our state. Do your best to get out and enjoy this summer. Just don’t forget to still be safe.