Tag: Michigan Lakes

Great for All Seasons: A Highlight of Traverse City, MI

Posted on Mary Walters

It can be difficult to find a lake area that’s pleasant throughout all seasons. Summer heat can keep you close to the air conditioner, afraid to go outdoors and face the humidity. On the other hand, the winter blues can make you feel lonely as everything closes shop, and you have no choice but to bundle up inside the house. One location that’s close to perfect, regardless of the weather, is Traverse City, Michigan. Every season provides plenty of opportunities for the whole family to get outside and enjoy the pleasant lake atmosphere. Take a look below to see what’s available in Traverse City– winter, spring, summer, or fall!

Winter

Photo courtesy of Traverse City Tourism.

In some vacation spots, winter shuts down all the activities, everyone goes home, and everything goes quiet. In Traverse City, winter is one of the more exciting seasons. A major attraction is the ski lodges that surround the area. At night, they even offer cross country skiing. Further, one of the best winter attractions specific to Traverse City is snowshoeing across the sand dunes. This activity allows you to see the beauty of the lakeshore in the quiet winter snow.

Spring

cherry blossoms
Photo courtesy of Traverse City Tourism.

With the flowers in bloom, spring is an excellent time to enjoy the beautiful, quaint life of Traverse City. You can go on a tour of the cherry orchards that peak around mid-May. It’s a full excursion of beautiful cherry blossoms and flowers around the area. Another great idea for spring is a wine tour to explore various vineyards throughout the region. May is Michigan Wine Month, which Traverse City celebrates through specialized wine tours. Many visitors make the trip to Traverse City to enjoy a fun weekend discovering the vineyards in northwest Michigan.

Summer

traverse city lake beachy shoreline

Of course, you cannot beat the weather and lake life in Traverse City during the summer. Because the city sits right on the lake, there are countless opportunities to enjoy a sun-kissed day full of swimming and outdoor activities. If you’re a history buff, a popular option is to set sail on one of the tall ships. Summer is also considered a festival season. This city hosts the National Cherry Festival every July, which is a great time to enjoy this classic fruit from the Cherry Capital of the World. Additionally, there is a fun art and film festival scene throughout the summer where you can discover the latest, cutting edge creations from various artists.

Fall

fall foliage traverse city michigan

As the leaves begin to change, you will not want to miss the beauty of Traverse City. The best way to get out and enjoy the crisp fall weather is a hike along available trails. The famous sand dunes make for an excellent view of the lake, but there are also various forest trails in the area to enjoy watching the changing leaves. Another unique way to enjoy this season is by attending Traverse City’s annual Beer Week in November, an event that highlights local breweries. During this festive week, you can sign up for a race or check out other seasonal events. 

Whatever time of year you choose to visit Traverse City, there will be no shortage of activities to enjoy in this versatile, northern Michigan paradise. 

Fresh Water, Sandy Shores: The Best Beach Lakes in the U.S.

Posted on Camille Smith
Lake Michigan – Photo courtesy of Kelsey Young.

Who said sandcastles are reserved for ocean coasts? It turns out, you can find that sandy shoreline you’ve dreamed of on a landlocked lake. Further, many of these lakes with beaches are comparable to coastal settings. The difference is how they’re formed. Most saltwater lakes develop from tidal action eroding sediment while freshwater beaches arise from materials along the shoreline. Across the U.S., thousands flock to beach lakes every year. If you’re looking to purchase a lake home — but you’ve considered a beach house as well — you can have the best of both worlds.

Lake Michigan, MI

Lake Michigan – Photo courtesy of Kelsey Young.

Of all the beach lakes in the U.S., Lake Michigan is perhaps the most famous. Given its prominent reputation and expansive coastline, it’s no surprise why. Some refer to it as the country’s “third coast” following the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. However, Lake Michigan’s 3,200 miles of shoreline surpasses the Atlantic Ocean’s 2,069 miles of general coastline along the east coast. Besides its size, Lake Michigan is known for its sand dunes, which make up the most extensive freshwater dune system in the world. While strolling along these dunes, you’ll hear a distinctive squeaking noise beneath your feet. This endearing quality is due to the high quartz levels in Lake Michigan’s sand. From over 2,000 listings on our website, you’re sure to find a dream home here.

Lake George, NY

Million Dollar Beach Lake George, NY
Photo courtesy of LakeGeorge.com.

Lake George is fondly called the “Queen of American Lakes” for a reason. Four hours north of New York City, this clean, natural lake is surrounded by the stunning Adirondack Mountains. The Adirondack waters are some of the country’s most pristine, and the water’s clarity makes it a popular scuba diving destination. Along Lake George’s shores, popular public beaches include the Million Dollar State Beach, Shepard Park Beach, and the Lake George Dog Beach. Most of these beaches are close to Main Street for convenience. After a day at the beach, head to the bustling town and grab a burger at Heroes at the Lake before catching a concert in the tree-lined park behind Shepard Park Beach.

 

Lake Willoughby, VT

Photo courtesy of TrekEarth.com.

The unassuming town of Westmore, Vermont’s population, rarely exceeds 300 people. However, it would be best if you didn’t underestimate it. This tiny town is home to one of America’s stunning beach lakes. Nestled between Mount Pigsca and Mount Hor, Lake Willoughby is known as “America’s Lucerne,” after Lake Lucerne in the Swiss mountains, due to its fjord-like features. Fed by underground springs, it remains crystal clear and cold throughout the year. Poet Robert Frost referred to it as a “fair, pretty sheet of water.” For beach access, the North Beach is particularly stunning, but you can find sandy shorelines in multiple spots. 

To check out the area before buying a home, book a spot at the WillowVale Inn. Westmore’s only year-round lodging center offers cozy cabins and cottages to enjoy the crisp New England weather.

Geneva Lake, WI

Photo courtesy of OnlyInYourState.com.

Are you dreaming of a luxurious life on the lake? Look no further than Geneva Lake, Wisconsin, located in the resort city of Lake Geneva. This destination is a popular retreat for midwesterners, just two hours outside Chicago. The surrounding town is steeped in history from the late 19th century’s Gilded Age. During this short period of rapid economic growth, wealthy Chicagoans developed homes along the Shore Path still standing today. After a full day at one of the public beaches (Riviera Beach, Williams Bay Beach, Fontana Beach, or Big Foot State Park), you can enjoy antique shopping in the historic downtown area. 

Lake Travis, TX

Volente Beach, Lake Travis, TX – photo courtesy of AustinTexas.org.

Part of the Highland Lakes Chain in Texas, Lake Travis is a beloved spot for Austinites and visitors. Spanning 63.75 miles, this massive lake is famous for fishing, boating, and Devil’s Cove (also known as the “party cove”). From film festivals to breweries, there’s always something to do in the Lake Travis area. Today, we’re highlighting its status as one of the best beach lakes in the U.S. specifically. Tourists flock to Volente Beach for its resort and water park. For a more secluded vibe, hop over to Mudd Cove Beach or Bob Wentz Park. In short, if you’re seeking a relaxing beach lake with proximity to a thriving city, Lake Travis is an excellent pick. 

For more information on these beach lakes and other lake markets nationwide, check out our listings at Lakehomes.com!

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Traverse City, MI: The Hot Spot for Millennial Millionaires

Posted on Hallie Mitchell

There are 70 million millennials in the United States, and of those, 618,000 are millionaires. With that number growing, many of them are looking to invest their money in property. When imagining all the places that these young wealthy people could enjoy their millions, what exotic or wealth laden areas come to mind? Traverse City, Michigan, is the answer for more millennial millionaires than any other locale by zip code. Millennials are those who were born between 1982 and 1996, and ages range from 23 to 37 in 2019. The millionaires among them have a reported net worth between $1 million and $2.49 million, and their value is only projected to grow. 

 

Location, Location, Location

Photo courtesy of Traverse City Tourism.

Roughly 44% of these millennial millionaires are located in California. Still, those who are looking for a different pace are flocking to Traverse City. The draw for this active group is a community that boasts microbreweries, wineries, and a robust food scene. They are leaving the hustle and bustle of the big cities and heading north and situating themselves on the shores of Lake Michigan. 

The city is located in the northwestern part of Michigan and accommodates many needs with a central location that makes travel to much of the United States convenient. It’s close to major cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Milwaukee and it’s only a short plane ride from the Cherry Capital Airport to New York and Washington, D.C. The geography makes Traverse City an ideal spot for those busy young people looking to find a place to settle down or vacation.

Traverse City offers homes overlooking freshwater and beaches for a better price than homes in larger metropolitan areas. According to the Lake Homes Realty Lake Real Estate Market Report, Lake Michigan is the number one lake located in the state when it comes to having the most listings and most homes available. The Traverse City Area comes in number four on the list of listings with the most expensive land of fewer than 10 acres. However, Lake Michigan also has plenty of that land that millennial millionaires can purchase and build the lake home of their dreams, and with 92% of them purchasing property as opposed to existing homes, that’s what most are opting to do.

Get Out and Explore

Good Harbor Beach – Sleeping Bear Bunes National Lakeshore
Photo courtesy of Grand Traverse Living.

Traverse City gives those calling it home plenty of opportunities to get out and experience life. You can always explore a new area of Traverse City because every new season brings a new adventure. With Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore trails, ski slopes, beaches, and the downtown area, there is something for everyone to do. Head over to a park and explore a new area on one of the many local bike trails. You can hit the slopes, shop downtown at any of the latest trendy clothing stores or head to the beach and enjoy the freshwater and the white sandy beaches. With 40 wineries, 13 craft breweries, and over 150 restaurants, there is always a new place to explore or spend time with friends. 

Grand Traverse Commons
Photo courtesy of Experience Michigan Magazine.

The Grand Traverse Commons is another hidden jewel of Traverse City. The building looks like a castle, and in winter, covered in snow, it seems perfect for a starring role in a Hallmark movie. The former mental asylum is located in a 480-acre park that is a favorite for cyclists and hikers. Though it has a somewhat disturbing past, the new Commons boasts restaurants, galleries, shops, and even apartments. There is also a 25-acre Botanical Garden at the Historic Barns Park that was built on what was once the former asylum’s farm complex. In the same area, just a little north is a place called Slabtown, which was once a neighborhood inhabited by those who worked as millworkers and stevedores. Sleder’s Family Tavern located there is Michigan’s oldest continuously operated bar.

Since more millennials have decided to call Traverse City home, the city has experienced a growth of trendy restaurants, businesses, and festivals. Many love the lifestyle of living in a smaller city. Diverse residents and a healthy stream of tourists create a vibrant local culture.

Lights, Camera, Action

Photo courtesy of Traverse City Film Festival.

Events are always taking place in Traverse City. Throughout the year, the city hosts various activities, including Beer Week, guided walking ghost tours, restaurant week, the Downtown Chili Cook-off, and a full calendar of other events. During the winter, you’ll find ski races at Shanty Creek, and it also hosts the Northern American VASA Festival of Races.

One of the more notable festivals that has become a hit is the Traverse City Film Festival. It was established in 2005 by the Academy Award-winning filmmaker Michael Moore. It is a charitable and educational nonprofit organization founded on the idea that “One Great Movie Can Change You: Just Great Movies” is helping to save the cinema. The festival helped to revive the State Theater, and the event occurs every year in late July to early August.

Traverse City also hosts an Ironman 70.3 competition, which has been an enormous success. The Ironman 70.3, also known as a Half Ironman, is a part of a series that takes place all over the world. It consists of a 1.2-mile swim in West Grand Traverse Bay, a 56-mile bike ride through the Sleeping Bear Dunes, and a 13.1-mile run that concludes in downtown Traverse City.  

 

No matter what you enjoy, there is an activity or event for you in Traverse City. 

All About the Lake Lifestyle

Photo courtesy of Grand Traverse Living.

Living on the lake in Michigan is your access to unlimited watersports. Along with every form of boating, the winds make it ideal for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing on the lake. Have you never done it before? No problem, there are plenty of shops that offer both equipment and lessons. Want something with a little more power? You can either bring your own or rent a jet ski and enjoy Lake Michigan differently. For the less serious athlete, there is a kayak brewery tour. The tour takes you to local brewers in Traverse City while you also get to explore more of Lake Michigan.

Lake Michigan offers breathtaking beaches, and if you are a dog lover, you are in luck. There are many beaches where your fur baby is welcome to enjoy Lake Michigan with you. 

Salmon Fishing at Sunset
Photo courtesy of Grand Traverse Living.

Clear blue water and inland lakes make Traverse City an excellent place to do some freshwater fishing. Smallmouth Bass, King and Coho Salmon, Walleye, Lake Trout, Great Lakes Muskie, Brown Trout, and Steelhead are all found in the waters of Lake Michigan. The peak times to fish in this area are between May and October because it offers a consistent supply of fish. During the winter, when the ice begins to thicken, you can head out on the “hard water” and participate in the “Up North” tradition of Ice Fishing. 

 

Traverse City offers so many amenities and activities; it’s no wonder young and wealthy millennials are flocking to the area. 

Click HERE to learn more about Traverse City, Michigan.

The Waterfront’s Finest Wines and Vineyards

Posted on Staff

Article co-authored by LakeHomes.com intern Sam Harvey

Simply being near the water can increase your sense of calm and alleviate stress and anxiety – a phenomenon called the “blue mind effect.”

However, owning a lake home also tends to make you the most popular person in your friend group, which can create a few stressors.

Sometimes it’s nice to take a break from entertaining guests, taking the kids tubing and cleaning up lake toys. You need an activity that’s more, shall we say, adult.

“Wine” down every once in a while at any of these award-winning waterfront wineries located on your favorite lakes. 

Pleasant Valley Wine Company

Nestled along the shores of Keuka Lake in Upstate New York is one of the oldest wineries in the Finger Lakes region.

Built in 1860, the Pleasant Valley Wine Company offers connoisseurs a variety of 31 products ranging from the official champagne of the National Women’s Hall of Fall Induction ceremony to a refreshing strawberry white Zinn and some of the finest cooking sherries in the country.

A trip to Keuka Lake is not complete without a tour of the Pleasant Valley Wine Company facility, comprised of eight stone buildings recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. You will also find the equipment from the original establishment and wine-making displays.

Offered from Memorial Day through mid-November, Pleasant Valley tours are self-guided beginning at 11 a.m., daily. The last tour group of the day departs at 3 p.m. and concludes with a complimentary wine tasting.

Bottles are also available for purchase on-site and online, ranging in price from $3.50 to about $30. Among the winery’s most popular beverages is the Pleasant Valley Chocolate Lab, made of labrusca grapes and flavored with rich chocolate.

The winery recommends mixing this dessert wine with their Autumn Frost Strawberry White Zinfandel or Blackberry Merlot and pairing it with blue cheese.

Lake Michigan Vintners

Lake Michigan Vintners, situated just 10 minutes from the Lake Michigan waterfront, is the Midwest’s only teaching winery.

Part of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail, this world-class facility boasts products made with locally sourced ingredients, producing wines comparable to those made in the Bordeaux and the Piedmont regions of Italy.

The Lake Michigan Vintners tasting room is open from noon to 5 p.m. on Mondays and Sundays and from noon to 6 p.m., Thursday through Saturday. For just $10, winery guests can enjoy a sampling of five wines of their choice.

Lake Michigan Vintners produces all wines in small batches, so availability is limited.

Among those wines currently available for tasting and purchase is the Grüner Veltliner, characterized by green apple aromas, a hint of lime and lemon shortbread cookies. This beverage pairs nicely with goat cheese and mozzarella.

Also available this summer is the Wavelength White, which features floral aromatics, jasmine, and hints of honey.

For red wine lovers, the Lake Michigan Vintners Pinot Noir tastes reminiscent of cherry pie and baking spices. Serve with savory dishes like pot roast and grilled lamb.

Rosemont of Virginia Winery

Conveniently situated on the Virginia-North Carolina border, just two minutes from beautiful Lake Gaston, the Rosemont of Virginia Winery invites guests to tour their 25 acres of grapevines and sample their 15, 100% estate-produced wines.

The Rosemont Estate, housed on 450 acres, dates back to the mid-1700s, during which time its grounds served as farmland for vegetables, hay, tobacco, soybeans, corn, and peach trees.

Winery construction began in 2006 and today is complete with an underground state-of-the-art gravity flow production facility.

Tours and tastings are hosted daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays. With a $10 tasting fee, winery visitors can sample each of the venue’s current vintages and receive a commemorative Rosemont wine glass at the tour’s conclusion.

Unique to the Rosemont of Virginia Winery is their Adopt-a-Vine program, through which wine lovers can donate $300 to the facility in exchange for access to exclusive events and their own vine of Chambourcin grapes.

Adopt-a-Vine program members can learn to prune and trim their vines, help harvest their grapes and receive a bottle of wine made from their fruits for three harvest years.

One of the winery’s most popular wines is their Traminette 2017, a semi-sweet, dry, white wine characterized by touches of citrus and spice and bright floral notes. The winery recommends pairing this beverage with spicy cuisine or light summer salads.

Also a Rosemont favorite is their 2016 Cabernet Franc, which features light oak and dark cherry aromas alongside hints of berry and pepper.

This Cabernet Franc is a delicious red, aged for 20 months. It has the perfect complement to earthy flavors such as those found in olives and feta, fontina, and goat cheese.

Rosemont of Virginia Winery sells its products outside Virginia in North Carolina, Maryland, Washington D.C., New York, Florida, Michigan, and California. Bottles range in price from $14 to $33.

For more local flavor, be sure to check out our article “Tastes of the Lake: A Spotlight on Your Favorite Lakeside Restaurants“!