Traverse City's North Peak Brewing Company

A brewery located in an 1899  former candy factory? That's exactly what you'll find in North Peak Brewing Company in Traverse City. They not only make excellent beers like Diabolical, Sinuous, Siren, Archangel and Vicious, but they also are keen on serving really good food. We loved the pulled pork nachos ;}.  Those two combos plus exceedingly great ambiance make it a fantastic brewery. They also brew beers up on Old Mission Point north of the city. That's where we took these photos.  Yummy.

Crying Bear in Elk Rapids

We found a crying bear in Elk Rapids.  Why is he crying? Is he sad about the environment?  Why is he in Elk Rapids? He has no other painted bears around him. We thought he was cute, but are concerned about his happiness.....

Goodale's Bakery in Grayling

It's off the beaten path, but the Gooddale Bakery is not hard to find if you use your nose to smell it out! A fixture in Grayling for as long as we can remember, here's where you go for outstanding breakfast pastries and delicious bread and coffee. We are hooked on the fry cakes and the cinnamon bread, but others scream for the Bavarian cream long johns or the cinnamon biscuits with caramel icing--to die for!

Michigan Artist Peacása

We were first attracted to the Petoskey artist Peacása by her whimsical greeting cards. Then we found out she also does pottery and jewelry. Her real name is Deanna Hergt Willmott and her artwork is adorable.

Crossroads Creamery in Détroit

Oo là là, baby.  Have you tried the artisanal goat cheese (aka chèvre) made fresh by Crossroads Creamery in Royal Oak? Once you do, you'll become a devotée just like us.  They use local ingredients like Imlay City's maple syrup and garlic grown near the Kalamazoo River. Our favorites are Sunny Detroit and Fig and Honey. Trekking to the Farmer's Market in Royal Oak has now become a Saturday habit to satisfy our goat cheese fix. We are blessed that owner Jonathon chose Michigan to develop and expand his passion.

Lori Wheldon Elk Rapids Artist

We met Michigan artist Lori Wheldon in the Stone Hedge Gallery in Elk Rapids.  She specializes in painted windows and has recently dabbled in animal portraits with great success. Stone Hedge displays works from artists in northern Michigan in a beautiful 19th century home and they also sell some very interesting gently used art. Located on Bayshore Drive, they are open seven days a week.

Bath City Art Walk in Mt. Clemens

Mt Clemens has made a tremendous effort in recent years to put art in public places.  Walkers can enjoy the Bath City Art Walk which not only highlights this unique sculptures but offers a great tour of the downtown area as well. Downloadable map and photos available here.