20 Great Lakes Getaways
From Minnesota to Ohio, towns along the Midwest's Great Lakes capture the summer vacation spirit. Here are some of our favorite Great Lakes getaways, with tips on exploring each one.
Charlevoix, Michigan
Families love Charlevoix, an easygoing beach town with a triple lakefront (Lake Michigan, Round Lake and Lake Charlevoix).
Five Fun Stops
1 The surprisingly quiet Fisherman's Island State Park encompasses a swath of Lake Michigan beach outside Charlevoix and is ideal for camping or picnics (231/547-6641; michigan.gov/fishermansisland).
2 The New England-style Whitneys Oyster Bar serves nautical-theme drinks and good fish in a festive atmosphere (231/547-0818; whitneysofcharlevoix.com).
3 With curved roofs, deep eaves and cottagey stone walls, Mushroom Houses by native son Earl Young echo the Lake Michigan landscape and look like homes for fairy-tale creatures. Walking tours and self-guided driving tours available (231/547-2101; charlevoix.org).
4 Murdick's Famous Fudge has been creating fudge on Charlevoix's Bridge Street since 1953. Try the classic chocolate (231/547-4213).
5 Designed by local architect Young, the fieldstone Weathervane Terrace Inn overlooks Lake Michigan in the heart of Charlevoix (800/552-0025; weathervane-chx.com).
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