Blueberries don’t automatically spring to the minds of many when Michigan is mentioned, but those in the know have been traveling to the Great Lake State for years to acquire this staple of summer. It might be a surprise to the non-initiated that Michigan leads the nation in the quantity and diversity of blueberries grown, boasting 30 varieties grown by over 600 family farms from July to September.

It’s fitting, then, that the National Blueberry Festival should be hosted on the mitten peninsula every August.  You can sample as many blueberries as your heart desires and grab some to take home with you.  Naturally the kids will have plenty to do, including a pie-eating contest, sidewalk chalk time, and plenty of entertainment at Riverfront Park.  Adults can indulge at the Ice Cream Social by day and the beer tent by night, or stay on the healthy side and run the 5 or 10k or try some yoga on the beach.  There’s live music, a fish boil and a whole lot more.

South Haven is one of the most popular destinations on the Great Lakes.  Nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, South Haven is the perfect place to enjoy the water, whether you prefer boating, fishing or simply lounging on the beach and watching the waves.  The hamlet was even named one of the 50 best yachting towns.

Campgrounds, cabins, motels and RV parks are available for all tastes and budgets. Wineries, breweries and cider mills dot the region, within easy driving distance of major West Michigan cities, not to mention the Windy City.  Wisconsinites can even take the Lake Express ferry to Muskegon and enjoy the picturesque drive down the coast to blueberry heaven!

For more info, visit the Official Site.