Using Local Markets to Create and Epic Meal This Holiday Season

Farm to Fork

Did you know there are 322 farm markets in Michigan?? 322!  That is almost double of the 163 that were operating just three short years ago in 2009. Not only do farm markets offer fantastic produce to create some amazing fresh meals, but they provide a huge economic impact for the communities in which they operate.

This holiday season as you are thinking about what on earth you are going to cook for your family members, keep local produce in mind. Although the temperatures are dropping and the snow is making its way to your doorstep, remember that there are still local farmers out in their fields every day picking fresh produce, and there are still markets selling this produce. Although not many markets are open year round, there are a few in West Michigan that we highly recommend you stop by to pick up some of your holiday treats.

Lansing City Market Hours:
Tuesday through Friday 10a-6p
Saturday 9a-5p
Lansing City Market Directions:
325 City Market Drive, Lansing, MI 48912

Fulton Street Farmers Market, Grand Rapids
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday
8am-3pm
1147 E. Fulton Street
Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Frankfort Farmers Market
Open "All Year Round on Saturday mornings.
Indoors (November - April) at the Recreation Center
832 Main Street along the Waterfront. - 9 am to 1 pm
Outdoors (May - October) at the Open Space Park, 7th - 9th Streets & Main Street along the Waterfront. 9 am to 1 pm.

Farmer’s Market at Borgess Medical Center (BMC), Kalamazoo
January through April
Saturdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
 
For a full list of all farm markets in West Michigan operating seasonally or year round, visit our farm market page!

Winners!

Thank you to all that participated in our Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer, and Food Festival ticket giveaway. The winners are Lisa, Paul, Tina, Danielle, and Daniel! If this is you, please email media@wmta.org the name you would like the tickets held under, and they will be available for pick up at will call!

Did you say wine??

Today we are bringing back an "oldie but goodie" article from our friend Karel Bush at the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council. Don't let us fool you, we celebrate wine every month here at WMTA, however we are gearing up for one of our favorite events of the year, the Grand Rapids Wine, Beer, and Food Festival (!), so to pay homage to this awesome event featuring hundreds of wine and beer vendors from all over the world, we are going to regale you with this article from Karel about why Michigan wines are totally awesome. And, if you keep reading all the way to the end, you will even find a little treat (it is Halloween after all!)

If you love fine food and wine, your first question when planning your travel might be: What is unique about this region? When you travel through Michigan, you’ll discover the Great Lakes State offers a diverse assortment of cool-climate wines that pair beautifully with foods from their regions.

Many of Michigan’s 90-plus wineries are located in the most scenic spots in the state. Most are along the Lake Michigan shore, where vineyards take advantage of the “lake effect,” which brings insulating snow cover in the winter and warm breezes in the fall.

Because of Michigan’s diverse growing regions – vineyards are scattered from the Upper Peninsula to the southern state line – there are many varieties and styles of wine to enjoy.

Aromatic white wines like Riesling and Gewurztraminer are widely produced in Michigan. Riesling, in particular, is found from very dry to very sweet – even Ice Wine, which is a style unique to cool-climate areas. Try a sip and you will fall in love with this heavenly nectar.

Cabernet Franc ripens earlier than many other red grapes, which is an advantage in a cool climate like Michigan. This wine is produced as a varietal (labeled with the grape name), but is also blended with Merlot and other reds. Many Michigan wineries also produce delicious Pinot Noir, the most widely planted red grape.

Whether you’re looking for red or white, dry or sweet, you’ll find something to love at any of the winery tasting rooms around Michigan. To learn more about the wines and wineries of Michigan, visit www.michiganwines.com.

Now that you're all read up on Michigan wines, we want 5 of you to experience these awesome wines for yourself - at the GR Wine, Beer, and Food Festival of course! We are giving away 5 pairs of tickets away to the event happening next weekend, November 8-10 at the DeVos Place in Grand Rapids (we won't make you work as hard as you did last year to win them either.) All you have to do is tell us your favorite Michigan wine or winery and you will be entered to win! Winners will be announced next Tuesday. 

Share this with your friends for an increased chance to win! (That is assuming they will take you as their guest!) 

The Wrap Up of the Fall Color Show

October 25, 2012

Photo by Todd and Brad Reed Photography in Ludington

The beautiful color show is coming to a close here in West Michigan. The northern and central parts of the region are both past peak and southern West Michigan is just about past peak as well. It was a beautiful fall for colors with the entirety of the color show lasting over a month. Make sure to check back next September for the start of the fun all again!

Fall Color Report 10.10.12

Kodachrome Dream by Todd Reed

A few areas are already past peak, but that doesn't mean there aren't still colors around West Michigan. The lower part of the region is still seeing peak or close to peak. However, freezing temperatures are starting to move in at night which is speeding up the color change process. If you are looking to come see some brilliant colors, we recommend you stay south and come soon!

North:

Report from Charlevoix: Currently in peak! Leaves are starting to fall off of trees due to a few freezing nights this week.
Report from Petoskey: The trees are just past peak and are starting to lose leaves.
Report from Traverse City: Peak has arrived! Brilliant colors are showing throughout the entire region.
Report from Cadillac: The colors are absolutely perfect! But bundle up when you go, there has been a snow sighting and freezing temperatures!
Report from Newaygo County: 70% change- peak expected later this week.
Center:

Report from Gaylord:   Just past peak and leaves are now falling off the trees.
Report from Grand Rapids: Seeing about a 70% change. Vivid reds and oranges are more visible this week, however a couple of freezing nights this past week will speed up the change. Peak is expected this weekend/early next week.
Report from Lansing: At about 60% color change right now, peak expected later next week.
South:
Report from Muskegon County: 60% change. Reds, yellows, and a bit of green still.  Peak expected in the next week.

Report from Van Buren County: 60% change. Peak color expected later next week.

Thanks to the local Area Visitors Bureaus and the Michigan Audubon Society for the color reports.

Fall Color Report 10.3.12

Thanks to Todd and Brad Reed for this beautiful fall photo!

We have had some rain here in West Michigan, mix this with cooler temperatures this weekend and you get a brilliant display of color- but hurry, because it may go fast! The color change differs depending on the weather conditions so make sure to check back every week to see what the colors are doing. There are a few cities and counties in West Michigan that are starting to see peak, so if you are an avid leaf peeper, you may want to get out there soon!

North:
Report from Charlevoix: Color is starting to explode with peak conditions expected sometime next week.

Report from Petoskey: This area is showing a montage of red, orange and yellows. Peak color expected early next week.

Report from Traverse City: Many areas showing 50 percent or more of peak fall color as of October 1. The bright red and yellow vines and shrubs are still the big standouts

Report from Cadillac: The colors are almost at peak. All colors are visible, vibrant reds, bursts of bright oranges, and radiant yellows are popping almost everywhere. Peak expected this week.

Report from Newaygo County: Colors at about 40% saturation, about 60% in the north. Peak expected later this week into early next week.

Center:

Report from Gaylord:  Beautiful reds, yellows and golds, as beech and maples trees take center stage for the area’s fall color presentation. Now, is the perfect time to catch a glimpse of fall’s brilliance as the area is currently displaying peak color.

Report from Grayling: Peak conditions are expected this coming weekend. Although the southern part of the county is somewhat behind the northern portion, color conditions are good.

Grand Rapids: Seeing about a 40% change. Still bursts of reds and yellows are popping all throughout the city and the drive south to Kalamazoo boasts bright vibrant colors that are changing rapidly.

Report from Lansing: Week or two until peak color is expected. At about 40% color change right now.

South:

Report from Muskegon County: 40% change. Reds, yellows, and a bit of green still.  Peak expected in the next week or two.


Report from Van Buren County: The last bit of color to start changing in the state, this area is starting to see a 25% color change. Peak expected in the next 2 weeks.

Thanks to the local Area Visitors Bureaus and the Michigan Audubon Society for the color reports.

Fall Color Report

It's that time for one of our favorite reports- a Fall Color Report! Yippee!

September 26, 2012
Things sure are starting to change around the region with the typical north to south progression. Due to a quick drop in temperatures, experts are predicting an earlier peak this year which means if you are used to taking a fall color trip or tour, you may want to potentially move that trip up a week earlier that what you’re used to.
North:

Report from Traverse City : Still a couple weeks away from peak color, however there is more and more color appearing – with perhaps 10 to 15 percent of the trees showing their fall finery this week.

Report from Cadillac: The reds in the Sumacs are starting to pop out, still only about a 20% change and mainly yellow.

Report from Manistee County : Seeing a 10% change, however just inland a few miles is reporting a 15% change.

Report from Newaygo County: There is about a 15-20% Change and is expected to peak in the next 2 weeks.

Center:

Grand Rapids : Seeing about a 10-15% change. Still mostly yellows but the oranges and reds are starting to appear. The sumacs will be the first to show reds and those are now just starting to pop.

Report from Lansing : seeing about a 10-15% change. Still mostly yellows but the oranges and reds are starting to appear. The sumacs will be the first to show reds and those are now just starting to pop.


South:

Report from Muskegon County : Some reds and yellows are starting to show. Only about 10% change.


Report from Barry County : A recent cold night in Barry County has brought about many yellows and some reds in the western part of the county. Reds are especially noticeable in wetlands, along with the purples showing by dogwoods, are really pleasant to the eye. About 20% of the trees of various species are showing yellow, about 5% showing reds in the upland areas.

Report from Van Buren County: Van Buren County is in the very beginning stages of showing fall color.  There are very few red sumacs showing and everything else, weeds and brush, are mostly yellow.
 
Thanks to the local Area Visitors Bureaus and the Michigan Audubon Society for the color reports.

All Things Autumn

Fall in Allegan County

Do you feel that?? Ahhh autumn is in the air and we here at WMTA couldn’t be more excited. Harvest festivals, apple picking, pumpkin patches, hayrides, hot apple cider, donuts, leaves changing colors, boots, scarves, jackets, and I could go on and on and on. Alas, it’s been a hot hot summer and autumn could not come sooner. In all of our excitement we decided to bring back the All Things Autumn portal on wmta.org. here you will find fall color tours, Michigan apple facts, fall events, and more!

If you are as excited for fall as we are, then we know you will love spending some time on this part of the website.

Also, as soon as the leaves start changing colors, we will have an updated fall color report online as well.

Tell us what your favorite fall activity is and you will be entered to win a family 4 pack of tickets to Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek! Winner to be announced next Friday, September 14.

So pull on those boots, wrap up your scarves, and get ready for fall!

Science and History

To round out our month of all things arts and culture, we couldn’t leave out history and science museums. On top of being educational and highly entertaining, these museums are interactive, fun, and historic. Luckily, a few of these very unique destinations have found a home in West Michigan.

First, we will kick things off with the Curious Kids Museum in St. Joseph. This awesome science museum hosts over 100 hands-on Exhibits for ages 1- about 10 years old. Kids can enjoy a wide variety of Discovery Fun from the Awesome Apple Orchard to the Vet Clinic to Global Child Village, to Media Mania. Navigate a Great Lakes ship, be an electron to make electricity, pull a bubble around you, and much more. Science, learning, and fun all in one? You bet!

Let’s talk about History. There is tons of it here in West Michigan, from historic homes and cars, to famous presidential museums and historic farms, it’s all here.

Looking for a historic castle? Look no further. Castle Farms in Charlevoix has history and is an exceptional location for any event.

Historic Museums? Yep we’ve got em!
Coopersville Historical Society Museum , Coopersville
Gerald R. Ford Museum , Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids Public Museum
Historic Charlton Park , Hastings
Historic White Pine Village , Ludington
Lakeshore Museum Center , Muskegon
      * Insider Tip- This museum is free 7 days a week!
Michigan Historical Museum , Lansing

Maritime Museums? Well after all, we are surrounded by lakes.
Great Lakes Naval Memorial & Museum , Muskegon
Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum/Historical Society , Sault Ste. Marie
Michigan Maritime Museum , South Haven
Old Lighthouse Museum , Michigan City, IN
S.S. Milwaukee Clipper , Muskegon
USS LST 393 Veteran’s Museum , Muskegon
       *Insiders Tip- The USS LST 393, one of the last two Landing Ship Tanks from World  War II, invites the public to view movies on    deck every Friday during the summer!

Weird, Wacky, and Wonderful?
The Michigan Flywheelers Museum is just what the name says. Home to one of the largest Antique Engine & Tractor shows in the state that is held every September, the Michigan Flywheelers Museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and learn about our early American farming history and its equipment.

And what is a trip to West Michigan with out divulging in some Dutch Heritage? Nelis’ Dutch Village Theme Park and Wooden Shoe Factory takes step back into the Netherlands of 100 years ago. Featuring Dutch klompen dancing, wooden shoe carving, museums, movie, Frisian farmhouse, kids' rides & much more! Open daily 10-5, April 24 thru Labor Day.

Lastly, for a true gem, visit the Gilmore Car Museum. Dreams of finding an “old car in a barn” are a daily reality here. Nestled on 90 landscaped acres in restored historic barns are nearly 200 extraordinary vehicles spanning more than 100 years of automotive heritage. Here you will find exhibits ranging from a 1899 Locomobile, to the classic Duesenberg or the elusive Tucker '48, and from the Model T to the muscle cars of the 60s and 70s.

Performing Arts in West Michigan

There is something magical about watching a live performance, whether it be a ballet, theatrical performance, musical, dramatic play, or an 80’s cover band, West Michigan is home to all these different types of performances, and more! If you are one who enjoys a traditional theatre performance, be it a play, musical, concert or ballet, we recommend you check out these fantastic options on your next trip to West Michigan.

Barn Theatre , Augusta
Broadway Grand Rapids , Grand Rapids
Interlochen Center for the Arts , Interlochen
Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Mainstage , Benton Harbor
Saugatuck Center for the Arts , Saugatuck
Southwest Michigan Symphony Orchestra , St. Joseph

Perhaps the traditional theatre setting isn’t necessarily your scene, West Michigan is home to plenty of non-traditional theaters that will leave you wanting more. For example, Cornwell's Turkeyville USA in Marshall has a year round dinner theater located right inside the restaurant. Each year the plays are different and always have a unique and funny twist.

For those who enjoy a summer on the water, the Port City Princess in Muskegon is known for its concerts aboard the ship while out sailing the great Lake Michigan. If you’re ready to rock (literally and figuratively), this is the venue for you.

If you haven’t heard, the 80’s are making a comeback and the Mega 80’s will make you feel like they never left. Enjoy this all-too-real cover band at a local West Michigan venue or you can catch them at venues all throughout the state.

If you’re feeling lucky on your next trip to West Michigan, try one of the many Casinos that also have great concerts and shows on a regular basis.

Kewadin Casino's DreamMaker Theater , Sault Ste. Marie
Blue Chip Casino , Michigan City, IN
Little River Casino Resort , Manistee
Odawa Casino Resort , Petoskey
Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort , Mt. Pleasant
There are also quite a few summer festivals that focus on Music and the arts. Festival of the Arts in Grand Rapids takes place the first weekend in June every summer and features local talent acts. The Ionia Free Fair takes place every July and features big name headliners and the Allegan County Fair happens every September and also features national top acts.

One of our favorite summertime venues is Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. These botanical gardens come alive in the summer. Dozens of hot musical acts come to the outdoor amphitheater and wow audiences. Bring a low chair or blanket and a snack and you have yourself a perfect night with one of your favorite performers.

And how is this for some fun, the Grand Haven Waterfront / Musical Fountain is the world’s largest Musical Fountain and shows every night in the summer. Enjoy classic tunes accompanied by dancing fountains- cool, huh?

Lastly, if you want a true musical experience, the Music House Museum just outside of Traverse City has it for you. This unique museum presents an extensive collection of some of the world's most fascinating & beautiful automated musical instruments. Guests enjoy docent guided tours that include demonstration of instruments in period settings and galleries for a 90 minute tour of memorable musical entertainment. Throughout the season, the museum also offers silent films accompanied with music from a Mighty Wurlitzer organ.

Art Crawl: Museums and Galleries

West Michigan is home to many well-known artists, art festivals (can I get a yeah for ArtPrize?), and art galleries. Whether your favorite type of art is blown glass or maybe sculptures are more your thing to look at, West Michigan has a variety of galleries and museums for travelers to visit and appreciate. No matter where your trip in West Michigan takes you, you are bound to find some beautiful art. We have broken down lists of galleries and museums in the region.

Galleries
Jilly's Gallery , Pentwater
Photographs by Karen Murphy - Gallery Shop, South Haven
Shelby Gem Factory , Shelby
Sun, Wind and Rain , Muskegon
Khnemu Studio

 

Museums
Dennos Museum Center , Traverse City
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park , Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids Art Museum , Grand Rapids
Muskegon Museum of Art , Muskegon
Saugatuck Center for the Arts , Saugatuck
South Haven Center for the Arts , South Haven

Mud, Fire and Barbed Wire: The Ultimate 5K Race and Festival to Hit Michigan

 Warrior Dash is a fierce 5K event that challenges and welcomes all athletic abilities. On Saturday, September 15, adventure-seeking athletes will head to 1400 Maynard Avenue to conquer 12 bigger and badder obstacles over more than three miles of extreme terrain. After completing the intense physical challenge, participants will celebrate their accomplishments alongside friends and family with live music, food, beer and front row seats to some of the most grueling obstacles. 


In 2012, the revamped and recharged course will have participants bounding over fire, trudging through mud and scaling new obstacles and new heights. 600 Warriors will take off for the Battleground every half hour starting at 9 am. 

"Warrior Dash provides an incomparable experience for participants and spectators," said Race Director Alex Yount. "The unique combination of athleticism, live music, turkey legs and beer keeps Warriors coming back for more."


Warrior Dash is excited to partner with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in 2012. The St. Jude Warriors program encourages Warrior Dash racers to fundraise for St. Jude. At each domestic Warrior Dash there will be a VIP area on site complete with private showers, catering and a lounge area for those Warriors who raise more than $250 for St. Jude. Warrior Dash hopes to raise more than $3 million for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital with the help of the 2012 participants.

Warrior Dash is also aligned with GreenSneakers, and organization with a unique environmentally friendly fundraising opportunity. With the help of Warriors, 500,000 pounds of tennis shoes were donated and given a second chance at life in 2011.

In 2011, more than half a million athletes selected Warrior Dash as an alternative to the classic 5K race. Participants can expect new extremes for 2012 as Warrior Dash returns with a vengeance, debuting more innovative and exciting obstacles than ever before. The festival area will be the scene of the events greater celebration with more food, drinks and post-race activities. 


To see footage and learn more about the Dash, check out WarriorDash.com, Red Frog Events Youtube Channel or contact Kendra Alley at (515) 321-4847 or media@redfrongevents.com

Pet Friendly Beaches in West Michigan

Woof woof woof! That is dog speak for “take me to the beach”! Luckily for your dog, and you, there are plenty of dog-friendly beaches in West Michigan! Whether you are traveling North, South, East or West in the Region, your dog will be able to take a quick dip no matter where you are!

 

North

Aloha State Park Beach
4347 Third Street
Cheboygan, MI 49721
Directions 

This is not a Great Lakes beach, but is conveniently located off of I-75. The park has a special pet swimming area which is located by the playground. Pets need to be leashed and cleaned up after. The park is located seven miles south of Cheboygan and 25 miles from the Mackinac Bridge.

 

Burt Lake State Park Beach
6635 State Park Dr.
Indian River, MI 49749
Directions

This is not a Great Lakes beach, but is conveniently located off of I-75. While dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach, there is a special designated spot where dogs can go into the water. It is near campsite lot number 42, off Road 1, at the west end of the park. The road leads to the beach and dog run. Pets must be on a six foot or less leash and attended at all times.

 

Cheboygan State Park
4490 Beach Rd
Cheboygan, MI 49721
Directions

A variety of year round recreational activities, beautiful beaches and trails greet visitors at this park. Well behaved dogs are allowed at no additional fee. Dogs may not be left unattended, and they must be leashed and cleaned up after. Dogs are not allowed in public swim areas or in buildings. Dogs are allowed on the trails. This campground is closed during the off-season. The camping and tent areas also allow dogs. There is a dog walk area at the campground. There are no water hookups at the campground.

 

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
9922 Front Street
Empire, MI 49630
Directions

While pets are not allowed in certain areas of the park like the islands, Dune Climb, backcountry campsites or inside buildings, they are allowed on some trails, campgrounds and on the following beaches. Pets are welcome on the the south side of the beach at Esch Road (south of Empire), on the south side of Peterson Beach and on Empire Beach. Dogs must be leashed at all times and cleaned up after. To get there from Traverse City, take M-72 west to Empire.

 

Tannery Beach
862 Front Street
Boyne City, MI 49712
Directions 

A popular place for dog lovers, this beach is frequently used for taking the family pet swimming on those hot summer days. (Doggie bags and scoopers are available for owners to clean up after their dogs.) Although not the typical white, sandy beach, this is a great place to relax, swim, and enjoy a great view of Lake Charlevoix!

 

Wilderness State Park Beach
903 Wilderness Park Drive
Carp Lake, MI 49718
Directions 

Dogs are not allowed at the beach but they can swim in the water on the other side of the boat launch. Pets must be a on a six foot or less leash and cleaned up after. The park is located 11 miles west of Mackinaw City.

 

Young State Park Beach
02280 Boyne City Road
Boyne City, MI 49712
Directions

While dogs are not allowed on the beach, they can go into the water past the boat launch. There is a sandy and rocky area that leads to the water. Pets must be leashed and attended at all times and cleaned up after.

 

Zoll Street Beach
Zoll Street
Harbor Springs, MI 49740
Directions 

Zoll Street beach is a real gem. This dog-friendly beach is great for swimming and kayaking. Located at the western edge of Wequetonsing, this beach has a long, shallow area that is great for kids (and dogs!) to splash and play in the water. There are sandy and grassy areas and picnic tables.

 

Central

Grand Haven City Beach
1299 S. Harbor Drive
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Directions

Sandy swimming beach located on Lake Michigan. The city beach is nestled between The Bil-Mar, a beachfront restaurant, and Grand Haven State Park beach on Harbor Drive. Limited free parking is available. No fees or passes required.

Dogs are welcome on City Beach except when swim buoys are in place. During this time, dogs are permitted to swim on the designated beach just south of the swim area.

 

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area
Manistee National Forest
Manistee, MI 49660
Directions 

Nordhouse Dunes is located within the Manistee National Forest. While dogs are not allowed on the swimming beach, they are allowed on the rest of the beach in designated areas.

 

Norman F. Kruse Park
Norman F. Kruse Park
Muskegon, MI 49441
Directions

Norman F. Kruse Park has about one mile of Lake Michigan Beach, with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. This is the major picnic area with 4 picnic shelters and an accessible ramp to the beach and into the dunes.

The park has about one mile of Lake Michigan Beach. The dog beach is located on the beach along the northern part of the park. Location is Sherman at Beach in Muskegon.

 

South

Grand Mere State Park - Rosemary Beach
Thornton Drive
Stevensville, MI 49127
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Directions

With over one mile of shoreline, Grand Mere has plenty of space and beauty for swimmers and sunbathers alike.

Dogs on leash are allowed at the beach and on the hiking trails. The one mile beach is located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Remember to clean up after your pet.

To get there, take I-94 south of St. Joseph and take Exit 22. Go west .25 miles to Thornton Drive and head south on Thornton for .5 miles.

 

Grand Mere State Park - Shoreline Beach
Thornton Drive
Stevensville, MI 49127
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Directions

State Park permit required.

Dogs on leash are allowed at the beach and on the hiking trails. The one mile beach is located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Remember to clean up after your pet.

To get there, take I-94 south of St. Joseph and take Exit 22. Go west .25 miles to Thornton Drive and head south on Thornton for .5 miles

 

Grand Mere State Park - Waverland Beach
Thornton Drive
Stevensville, MI 49127
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Directions

Grand Mere State Park has three beaches for visitors to enjoy. Located on Lake Michigan, this beach requires a State Park permit.

Dogs on leash are allowed at the beach and on the hiking trails. The one mile beach is located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Remember to clean up after your pet.

To get there, take I-94 south of St. Joseph and take Exit 22. Go west .25 miles to Thornton Drive and head south on Thornton for .5 miles.

 

Grand Mere State Park - Waverland Beach
Thornton Drive
Stevensville, MI 49127
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Directions

Grand Mere State Park has three beaches for visitors to enjoy. Located on Lake Michigan, this beach requires a State Park permit.

Dogs on leash are allowed at the beach and on the hiking trails. The one mile beach is located along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Remember to clean up after your pet.

To get there, take I-94 south of St. Joseph and take Exit 22. Go west .25 miles to Thornton Drive and head south on Thornton for .5 miles.

 

Warren Dunes State Park
12032 Red Arrow Highway
Sawyer, MI 49125
Phone: (269) 426-4013
Website Directions

Located on Lake Michigan, this State Park offers views that will take your breath away. With a beautiful coastline and magnificent dune formations that are great for hang gliding. With over 1900 acres, this park offers activities year round. State Park permit or visitor pass required.

Dogs allowed on two-mile non-swimming beach and on trails.

 

Click here for a full list of pet friendly places to visit and stay.