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Green Bay to Mackinac
Where the U.P. meets the L.P.! Upper and Lower Michigan are really (kind of) connected! Because the Mackinac Bridge connects the two parts of the state. And St. Ignace marks at the northern end of the bridge. (Mackinac City marks the southern end of the bridge.) Consequently, St. Ignace marks the eastern end of The Driveby Tourist’s U.P. tour. In any case, driving the Green Bay to Mackinac trip takes one along the coast of Lake Michigan. Certainly, see a lot of trees! Also, here is a link to the previous post and a link to the post about planning the trip.
Getting back to Day 2
I wasn’t sure I’d get the picture above as it continued to rain. But thought you’d like to find this interesting, … or not!
Did you know that blogs are typically reader supported? So, buy me a hot chocolate! Or not!.
But wait a minute! I’m jumping ahead to the end. Let’s get back to the beginning.
The day really started like this:
Green Bay to Menominee
So, early (or not early for most of you), I dragged myself out of bed and headed to the U.P. Overall, it’s a beautiful drive along the bay.
The bay is actually named Green Bay, hence the city name. Mostly, saw water and trees until Menominee, MI, jumped in front of me!
As we head northeast, this is the first town in Michigan. Of course, had to stop for a late breakfast at a rustic and well-known diner. And the requisite link to The Serving Spoon. Great breakfast across the street from Lake Michigan shore. Menominee has quaint shops, a marina, places to eat, and a museum.
Want to see a shop for my road trip photos? You can have them printed as wall art or puzzles. They also work on coffee mugs, t-shirts and more! So, take a look. Maybe you'll see something you will like!
While in Menominee, The Driveby Tourist had to look at the marina and the surrounding beach quickly. Due to the views and the shops, it would be a good place to spend an afternoon or even a full day. On the other hand, not that long for The Driveby Tourist! I get obsessive about moving along.
Menominee County Museum
As a matter of fact, heading out of town, noticed the Menominee County Historical Museum. It’s in an old church and staffed mostly by volunteers. He had a delightful conversation with one of the volunteers. She migrated from the “other” part of MI, the Detroit area, and retired “up here.” Another hero in keeping history alive.
Everything in the museum is from Menominee County. So, a hunter bagged this bear, and a taxidermist made him look real.
Escanaba
After some time in the museum, must continue up the shore. Then there is Escanaba. To point out, some think it’s the most well-known city in the U.P. Marquette is actually larger and hosts the University of Northern Michigan.
At any rate, Ludington Park in Escanaba contains picnic spots, room for games, and areas just to sit and enjoy. Another great little town. This picture above is from the lakefront.
The Driveby Tourist forgot to take a picture of the lighthouse itself. Unquestionably, going too quickly. However, take what I get when I write the post later! Did I tell you that driving along the Great Lakes is wonderful? Of course, I prefer Lake Superior; because it’s “Superior!”
While visiting the lighthouse, obtained the picture above. Unfortunately, couldn’t get the reflections out of the picture. Sorry :(. Also, had a conversation with the young gentleman working there for the summer. I believe he’s a grad student at UNM in Marquette. We talked about websites and blogging. His website concerns auto racing in the U.P. and northeastern Wisconsin. Here is a link if you are interested.
Northeast on the Lake Michigan shore
Subsequently, moving on up the shore of Lake Michigan. The weather didn’t cooperate, and too much of the road had no view of the lake. Also, much of the shore is private property. Difficult to get views of the lake.
Coming back full circle to above. St. Ignace dining and hotel for the night. Just a Super 8 but good for a Super 8. There are only three hotels in St. Ignace. Better ones are located in Mackinac City across the bridge. But didn’t want to do that. It’s great when a family member has a Wyndham corporate discount!
Father Marquette lived among the Native People in the U.P. and founded the town of St. Ignace. His work opened the area for the French fur traders.
And that was the Green Bay to Mackinac day.
Difficult to find a Rock and Roll connection to this trip. Found a group called Danny and the Galaxies, who were based in Ironwood, MI, and did cut at least one record. Couldn’t find it on the internet.
The Driveby Tourist #the-driveby-tourist
