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Things To Do

Make an Earth Day Difference

Apr 16, 2024 / maddendev

Earth Day is not only a time to appreciate the natural world around you, but to make positive changes for our environment. Although there is only one day dedicated to Earth Day, here in Gaylord, we believe in celebrating Earth Day every day. MORE

Cheers to Beer

Apr 01, 2024 / maddendev

Grab your friends and celebrate your love for suds! While beer itself has been a popular drink for ages, trendy craft beers and microbrews have been taking over in recent years, offering a plethora of flavor combinations never before imagined. The craze has struck Gaylord full force, and you can make your way through our extensive lineup of restaurants to sample what the Alpine Village has to offer! MORE

Spring Is Here & You Should Be, Too!

Mar 19, 2024 / maddendev

By Paul Beachnau We are so blessed to live in a four-season community. Just when we run out of patience with one season, we are able to look forward to the next with renewed vigor. With the first official day of spring behind us, I am enthusiastically joining the “let’s hurry up and get this snow melted!” bandwagon. MORE

Morel Mushrooms: The Fickle Fungus and How To Find It

Mar 08, 2024 / maddendev

Morels are often described as the “steak” of the mushroom world, a delicacy hidden among last autumn’s remaining dried leaves and the bright green mossy cover of early spring. While mouthwateringly delicious, this most sought after tidbit can be difficult to find, to say the least.  We have some helpful hints for those wishing to seek out this coveted treat, and believe me, you’ll need them! Mushroom picking spots are nearly sacred in our neck of the woods and no one is about to give up their GPS coordinates and risk missing out on one savory morsel!  Where:  Look in sandy soil, near tall trees—typically elm, ash and poplar trees, sometimes fruit trees (old orchards are awesome), and sometimes under pines. The Pigeon River Country State Forest is prime hunting ground for morel seekers. This Pigeon River Map will help you find your way around our favorite stretch of wilderness.     When:  Head out about six weeks after the snow has melted. Morels like things warm and moist (not soggy), so a day following a spring rain improves your odds. MORE

Pet-Friendly Guide to Gaylord, Michigan

/ maddendev

Ready to have a pawesome adventure with your four-legged friend?  Pack your bags and head to Gaylord, Michigan to enjoy the dog days of summer! Where to Rest Your Paws Campgrounds are always a great place to stay with your furry friends, but if your dog is used to the more pampered life, many of our local lodging properties are pet-friendly.  Whether Fido is used to resort life, looking for a lakeside cabin or happy anywhere he can rest his paws, you’ll have lots of options when you visit Gaylord. MORE

Dine Alfresco in Gaylord, Michigan

/ maddendev

Outdoor dining has been on the rise in recent years and is more popular than ever this summer! While we already had a myriad of notable patios to choose from in Gaylord, Michigan, many of our dining partners have expanded their outdoor spaces even more. We can’t possibly list them all, but here are a few of our favorite alfresco eateries: Alpine Tavern & Eatery Alpine Tavern takes the cake for originality with one of the most variable dining experiences offered in our Alpine Village. Saddle up to the tiki bar, enjoy basking in the sun or select your seating under the portico. You'll also find a selection of outdoor games including cornhole available for your enjoyment. MORE

5 Things to Know About Fishing in Otsego County

/ maddendev

Out See GoBy Chris Engle, contributor Take a few blind steps within Otsego County and you’re bound to get a wet foot. With dozens of public lakes and the headwaters of five major trout streams, there’s no shortage of water to explore as an angler — whether that’s by boat, canoe, kayak, wading or walking. MORE

Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week

/ maddendev

While we all love vacationing, creating memories and enjoying new experiences, there’s more to travel than meets the eye. Not only can the power of travel strengthen families, improve your health and even make you more productive at work, but it’s also one of the most crucial industries in our nation.  In recognition of National Travel & Tourism Week, taking place May 19-25, 2024, your friends at the Gaylord Area Convention & Tourism Bureau encourage you to get out and explore!  Family Ties Travel is one of the most effective ways to reconnect with your family. Spending quality time together means leaving behind chores, homework and that ever-growing honey-do list. Take photos of your loved ones making new memories together and consider stepping out of your comfort zone to experience something new and adventurous!  Gaylord Family Highlights For the little ones, plan a trip to the Call of the Wild Museum. This quaint wildlife museum tops many lists of “when I was young” memories. And if you think you’ve already seen it all, they recently added an interactive display on the Great Lakes. After touring the extensive museum (and picking out your favorite fudge from the gift shop), treat yourselves to a round of mini golf or a quick race around the go-cart track!   Healthy Habits Would you believe that travel can actually have health benefits? How much better can it get?! Scratching your travel itch can greatly relieve everyday stress, which can then improve your heart health, lower your blood pressure, help you sleep better and simply create a sense of well-being. Another bonus to travel is that you’ll exercise without even realizing it. Seeking new experiences could mean kayaking, biking or fishing, but even walking downtown to do some window shopping will give you a much-needed boost! Being Healthy in Gaylord The All Outdoors paradise offered in Gaylord and the surrounding area is a healthy haven for visitors! Bring your bicycles and leisurely cruise along the new southern trail extension of the North Central State Trail. Ride along scenic Otsego Lake and even stop at the Otsego Lake State Park to take a refreshing dip to cool off. For the expert cyclist, head north from downtown and bike as many of the 62-miles stretching to Mackinaw City as your heart desires!  Increased Productivity Employers provide vacation time so their employees can recharge. While a staycation may offer you the opportunity to take care of home improvement projects that leave you feeling accomplished, using your time for travel has even greater benefits. Unplugging from having set tasks to complete gives you the chance to truly relax, allowing you to return to work feeling refreshed and ready to take greater initiative.  How to Unplug in Gaylord Leave your phone and laptop behind and set out to the Pigeon River Country State Forest. Adventure awaits on every winding dirt road throughout “The Pigeon” and you can look forward to breathtaking lakes and rivers, endless miles of hiking and biking trails and even catching a glimpse of one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi. MORE

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