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All too often Michigan is discounted as a vacation destination. But the Great Lake State has much to offer whether you're looking for a little R&R or prefer to be on the go. Whatever time of year you choose to visit Michigan will have something going on.

HIT A FESTIVAL
Summertime is a fantastic time for Southerners to come up and escape the blazing heat. The summer months bring events like Grand Haven's Coast Guard Festival. This a darling city to visit anytime of the year but especially in late July when the town is hopping with Coast Guard festivities. Rock out to one of several bands performing, tour one of the visiting Coast Guard ships, or just stroll down the beautiful boardwalk and hit a few carnival rides. If you happen to be on the other side of the state, but still want to catch some ships, Bay City hosts the Tall Ship Festival. Watch beautifully restored ships sail down the river and enjoy an adorable town celebration. Other fun Michigan celebrations include Traverse City's Cherry Festival, Mackinac Island's Lilac Festival, and Frankenmuth's Bavarian Festival.

TAKE A WALK
Across Michigan's majestic Mackinac Bridge. Every Labor Day hundred of people walk across the longest suspension bridge in the Western hemisphere. The five mile bridge connects the Lower and Upper Peninsulas and makes for a beautiful (and fun) walk. Afterward, take a ferry boat to Mackinac Island to take in the magnificent Grand Hotel, ride a bike around the island (no cars are allowed!), and be sure to take home some famous Mackinac Island fudge!

GET IN TUNE WITH NATURE
Michigan has several beautiful parks including Isle Royale National Park, Interlochen, and Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. Go hiking in the Autumn to see some of the country's most spectacular fall colors. The pristine Porcupine Mountains are a scenic and romantic destination in the Upper Peninsula. Sportsmen will be jumping at the chance to drop a line into one of Michigan's freshwater inland lakes for salmon, perch, bass, or walleye.

GET OUT YOUR FOAM FINGERS
The sports-lover in your family can enjoy great competition on any level. Michigan State University and the University of Michigan have excellent athletic programs (not to mention both schools major in tailgating). Detroit pro teams are strong and provide great entertainment. Athletes might also participate in Detroit's International Marathon, which runs into Canada and back.

These are just a few of the enjoyable activities Michigan has to offer. Regardless of your interests, Michigan will have something for each family member to enjoy. So consider retreating to the Great Lake State to create some wonderful memories on your next family vacation.

Learn more about this author, Anna Clayton.
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