Exploring the Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan

Where Nature Meets Adventure

Discover the Great Lakes Bay Region

Nestled in the heart of Michigan, the Great Lakes Bay Region is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This enchanting area, comprising six unique cities - Bay City, Birch Run, Chesaning, Frankenmuth, Midland, and Saginaw - offers a diverse array of activities and experiences for travelers of all ages. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, this region promises an unforgettable journey.


Bay City: A Waterfront Haven

Bay City, known for its stunning waterfront, invites visitors to explore its historical architecture, charming boutiques, and vibrant art scene. Take a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk Pier, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Saginaw River, or discover the city's rich maritime history at the Saginaw River Marine Historical Society.





Frankenmuth: Michigan's Little Bavaria

Experience a slice of Bavaria in Frankenmuth, a quaint town famous for its German heritage, festive Christmas celebrations, and world-renowned chicken dinners. Don't miss the Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store. The town's authentic German architecture and inviting beer gardens create a uniquely European atmosphere.


Midland: A Blend of Nature and Innovation

Midland, home to the stunning Dow Gardens and the innovative Alden B. Dow Home and Studio, combines natural beauty with architectural brilliance. Explore the Whiting Forest, featuring the nation's longest canopy walk, or delve into scientific wonders at the Midland Center for the Arts.


Outdoor Adventures and Family Fun

The Great Lakes Bay Region is an adventurer's paradise. Kayak along the serene waters of the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge, bike through picturesque trails, or take a thrilling zip line tour. For families, the region offers the Children's Zoo at Celebration Square in Saginaw, providing interactive wildlife experiences.


Culinary Delights and Local Brews

Foodies will revel in the region's diverse culinary offerings. Indulge in farm-to-table dining, savor fresh seafood from the Great Lakes, or unwind at a local brewery with a craft beer in hand. The region's agricultural bounty is showcased in its farmers' markets, offering the freshest local produce.


Accommodations for Every Traveler

From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, the Great Lakes Bay Region caters to all lodging preferences. Stay in a historic inn for a touch of nostalgia, or enjoy modern amenities at a waterfront hotel.


Conclusion: A Region Brimming with Surprises

The Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan is a destination that truly has something for everyone. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm Midwestern hospitality makes it an ideal getaway. Plan your visit and discover why this region is one of Michigan's best-kept secrets.


For more information and to plan your trip, visit the Great Lakes Bay Region's official website GoGreat.com.

Ride High on the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel

July 29, 2025
Ready to take your beach day to new heights? Hop on the 187-foot SkyWheel in Myrtle Beach and float above the boardwalk in your own glassy, air-conditioned gondola—panoramic views, zero sand in your shoes. By day, it’s all sunshine and sea breeze; by night, it’s a spinning LED light show you can’t miss. It’s big, it’s bold, and it’s the ultimate sky-high selfie spot.

Myrtle Beach: Leading the Way in Accessible Beach Vacations

July 21, 2025
Myrtle Beach is making waves as one of the country’s most welcoming beach destinations, with a serious commitment to accessible travel . From fully accessible beach entrances and free beach-going wheelchairs to adaptive golf carts and sensory-friendly attractions, Myrtle Beach rolls out the sandy carpet for everyone. The Grand Strand’s wide, flat beaches, wheelchair-friendly boardwalks, and inclusive entertainment make sure that unforgettable coastal adventures are truly for all. It’s not just a vacation—it’s Myrtle Beach’s promise to make travel easy, joyful, and barrier-free.

Ride the Rails: Discover America by Train

July 15, 2025
A train journey isn't just about getting from point A to point B—it's an experience that connects you with the history, culture, and stunning beauty of America. Imagine traveling through breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged mountains of Colorado to the misty peaks of the Great Smokies, all while soaking in the nostalgia of steam engines or the luxury of modern cars. Whether it's sipping wine on the Napa Valley Wine Train or feeling the thrill of the Wild West on the Durango & Silverton, a railroad trip offers adventure, relaxation, and a glimpse into America's soul. Make your next vacation one to remember—hop on board and let the rails take you on a timeless journey!

Tampa’s Hidden Gem: Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour

July 15, 2025
Hidden in the heart of Ybor City, Tampa, behind an unassuming bookcase in the Roast Deli, lies Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour—a speakeasy that beautifully blends history, culture, and culinary creativity. Named after the influential Black pioneer, Madame Fortune Taylor, this hidden spot offers more than just a night out; it’s an experience steeped in rich Tampa history and vibrant flavors. Once inside, you’ll find yourself in an intimate, dimly-lit space where eclectic decor meets a cozy atmosphere. The menu is a delightful homage to West Indian culinary traditions, featuring dishes like oxtail pepper pot and sweet potato pancakes with plantains. Pair these with innovative cocktails, such as their signature plantain-smoked Old Fashioned, and you’re in for a treat that’s both soulful and satisfying. Madame Fortune doesn’t just serve up great food and drinks; it’s a place where stories of Tampa’s overlooked Black neighborhoods are told, making it a unique destination for those who want to explore the city’s cultural roots while enjoying a chic, speakeasy vibe. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this hidden gem offers a taste of Tampa you won’t forget. Plan your visit to Madame Fortune Dessert + HiFi Parlour and dive into an experience that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor​.

Gay Dolphin

July 9, 2025
Myrtle Beach’s Most Iconic and Quirky Beach Shop

Myrtle Beach Swings Big

July 7, 2025
Championship Golf to Mini Golf Magic

Tampa’s Black History: Stories That Shaped the City

July 3, 2025
Tampa’s rich Black history comes to life in the streets, stories, and soulful spaces of The Scrub—one of the city’s oldest African American neighborhoods. Once a vibrant hub where Black-owned businesses, jazz clubs, and family homes thrived, The Scrub’s legacy now echoes in the powerful public art of Perry Harvey Sr. Park and will soon take center stage at the Tampa Black History Museum, opening next year. Here, larger-than-life sculptures, interactive displays, and a winding timeline walk honor the resilience, culture, and contributions of Tampa’s Black community. It’s a place where past and present meet—and where every step tells a story worth remembering.

The Carolina Opry

July 1, 2025
Myrtle Beach’s Must-See Showstopper

Celebrating America's Spirit: A Journey of Festivals Across the Nation!

July 1, 2025
From the surreal heights of hot air balloons filling the sky in New Mexico to the quirky charm of pickle-themed festivities in Pittsburgh, America's festivals are a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and fun. Whether it's a lumberjack competition in Wisconsin, a chilling tribute in Colorado, or an adrenaline-fueled leap in West Virginia, each festival offers a unique glimpse into the diverse traditions and joyful spirit that make the USA extraordinary. Come experience the fun, adventure, and unforgettable moments that these festivals bring to life!

Beach Easy: Sips, Swings & SkyHigh Views

June 25, 2025
Discover the easygoing magic of Myrtle Beach —where craft beers, fine dining, world-class golf, and laid-back seaside adventures come together for the ultimate coastal escape. Spend your days swinging on championship greens, shopping the lively boardwalk, fishing from iconic piers, and taking in sweeping Grand Strand views from the SkyWheel. Cap it off with a night at the Carolina Opry, where the music and memories linger long after the final note. This is your guide to sips, swings, and sky-high views—Beach Easy style.