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Beautiful Michigan: Top Picturesque Locations For Fall

Grabbing photos of fall foliage here in Michigan makes for a fantastic October activity. So, where are the best places in the state to capture the perfect fall images?

Lake Superior Chapel Beach in Autumn at Pictured Rocks
Community

Foodie Focus: Summertown Fresh Bar Fills a Fast and Healthy Restaurant Void in Corktown

Summertown Fresh Bar's additive-free smoothies and juices, and ever-expanding healthy breakfast and lunch programs, have endeared the restaurant to its Corktown neighbors since 2023.

Community

Find Your Fit: Sneak a Full-Body Workout in at the Playground With These Tips

If you are one of those people that struggle to fit a workout into your busy schedule, you can be efficient and accomplish two things at once by working out on the playground while looking after your kids.

Community

Blue Cross ArtPrize Artists Inspired by Nature and History

You can see artists' work in a large window at the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan office at the Steketee’s Building, 86 Monroe Center St. NW, in downtown Grand Rapids. ArtPrize is Sept. 13-Sept. 28.

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Michigan Bucket List: Paddle Antrim Festival

Paddlers are welcome to join an epic adventure in September. The Paddle Antrim Festival celebrates the waterways and local communities of Northern Michigan Sept. 13-14. The festival includes community events and a non-competitive two-day paddling event from Ellsworth to Elk Rapids on the Chain of Lakes Water Trail.

Community

Mental Health Conversation Starters: Here’s How I Open Up

Mental health, anxiety and depression are topics many people shy away from because they can be uncomfortable to talk about. Breaking the stigma around mental health is extremely important because someone’s mental health is just as important as their physical health.

Community

Chartreuse Kitchen & Cocktails Settles in As One of Detroit’s Most Beloved Farm to Table Restaurants

Chartreuse was ahead of the "farm to table" curve when it opened in 2015. Clean, quality food, innovative dishes and an emphasis on hospitality have made it one of the most successful "new" restaurants to open in Detroit in the past decade.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: 5 Family-Friendly Fall Festivals

Fall is a wonderful time of year, filled with crisp air, beautiful foliage and plenty of festivals across the state of Michigan. Here are five unique fall festivals that are perfect for the whole family to enjoy:

Community

Folklore in Michigan: Add These Places to Your Bucket List

Michigan is known for its beautiful Great Lakes, scenic views and vibrant cities, but it also has a rich history of folklore. These stories, passed down through generations, offer a glimpse into Michigan's mysterious side. Here are some of the places where Michigan’s most iconic myths, legends and spooky stories originated to get you ready for the Fall season

Community

5 Ways to Support Black-Owned Businesses All Year Long  

Supporting Black-owned businesses should not be only a trend, but a year-round endeavor to be allies to everyone in our communities.

Black female business owner puts an open sign in the window
Community

When and How to Watch Perseid Meteor Showers in Michigan

Every summer, the Perseid meteor showers grace the night skies above Michigan. Learn more about this celestial display and the best places and times to check them out in Michigan.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: The Dow Gardens

Located in Midland, the Dow Gardens is 110 acres of tall trees, running water, and beautiful blooming flowers. The botanical garden is the perfect place to take a day trip to disconnect from the world and take a nature walk.

Community

5 Things to Do this Summer in Frankfort 

This picturesque lakeshore village sits at the foothills of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Park Bench on the Bay
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How to Reduce Your Plastic Use

One of the easiest ways to make a real difference when it comes to the environment is by making simple adjustments to your own lifestyle. As awareness of environmental issues grows, people are looking for ways to reduce their plastic use.

Community

Michigan Road Trip: US-23 Beach and Heritage Route

There are many sights to see in the state of Michigan from shipwrecks to beaches to lighthouses. Historic heritage route US-23 features those sights and more while showing the beauty of Lake Huron and national forests. We have compiled a list of stops along US-23 to add to your itinerary this summer.

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Best Hiking Trails in Northern Michigan

From Traverse City to Alpena and points in between, the northern half of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula is home to wonderful vacation destinations and plenty of natural beauty to explore. If you’re planning to be in the area, make a point to spend a day on foot, checking out some of the best hiking trails in Michigan.

Community

Hiking in Mid-Michigan: Where to Go

Do you think you have to go “up north” to get an authentic Michigan hiking experience? You will be surprised by the diversity of sites to explore in mid-Michigan. Whether you are looking for a riverfront experience, big rocks or an urban adventure, there is plenty to discover in the middle of the Mitten state.

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Ken Hayward Reflects on Opportunities Baseball Granted Him After Induction Into State of Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame

Before he led BCBSM's social mission and community affairs efforts, Ken Hayward was an incredible college baseball player. He didn't realize it at the time, but his years as a ballplayer shaped his future in a major way.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Sunflower Festivals   

Check out some of the Michigan farms that are hosting sunflower festivals this summer and fall.

Community

Cooking with Que: Detroit Restaurant Owner’s Cooking Classes Show You How to ‘Eat to Live’ 

Converting to a vegan diet was a gamechanger for Quiana Rice's health. The lifestyle change set her on a career path and mission to help others choose cleaner ingredients and develop healthier cooking and eating habits.

Community

Take a Hike in Southeast Michigan

Whether you’re looking to escape to a natural setting or enjoy a quick hike on your lunch break, southeast Michigan has plenty of great trails to discover. Here are some ideas to get you going on your next hiking adventure.

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Best Disc Golf Courses in Michigan

Pack up some discs, grab some water and check out these popular disc golf courses across Michigan.

Man playing flying disc sport game in the city park
Community

Michigan Bucket List: Saugatuck Dunes State Park

If you’re looking for a getaway that combines natural beauty, adventure, and local charm, Saugatuck Dunes State Park is your go-to spot. From hiking through dunes and forests to relaxing on serene beaches, Saugatuck Dunes State Park offers an experience for everyone to enjoy.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Ann Arbor Art Fair

Every July, one of the nation’s largest art festivals is right here in Michigan. The Ann Arbor Art Fair is an exciting, three-day festival that brings half a million visitors to Ann Arbor. The fair takes up 30 blocks of Ann Arbor and features more than 1,000 artists.

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Michigan Bucket List: Turnip Rock

Turnip Rock is in Port Austin at the tip of a small, private peninsula called Pointe aux Barques. It’s located just offshore the shallow waters of Lake Huron. This gravity defying rock formation got its turnip-like shape from gradual erosion caused by waves breaking down its soft, limestone stack.

Community

Accessible Beaches in Michigan 

Access to beaches and waterfront spaces is improving across Michigan as state parks and city beaches become places that people of all abilities can navigate.

a handicapped man at the beach. electric wheelchair. with assistant on bicycle.
Community

Michigan Bucket List: Zoos to Visit

Michigan is home to many zoos, petting zoos, refuges, and specialty animal conservancies that are an exciting, fun and educational experience for the whole family. We’ve compiled some of the best zoos and conservatories from across the state.

Community

5 Health Benefits of Volunteering at an Animal Rescue

The joy and affection that animals bring can cheer you up, calm you down, and keep your attention focused and in-the-moment. Not everyone can have a pet at home, and even if you do, you may find volunteering at a local animal rescue to be a rewarding experience. Learn five ways volunteering at an animal shelter can benefit your health.

Community

Breadless in Detroit Turns the Afterthought into the Centerpiece with Healthy, Innovative Sandwich Concept

Breadless uses super-green vegetables like Swiss chard and kale to conceal savory, chef-inspired sandwich recipes. The fast casual restaurant has become a much-needed health food option in Detroit.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: African World Festival

The Charles H. Wright Museum of African History is putting on its 41st annual African World Festival, July 12 to 14. Come celebrate African beauty, strength, and culture at Hart Plaza, Detroit. This three-day festival features more than 100 vendors, local and international performers, and countless opportunities for family fun.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Art In The Park

Art In The Park will host more than 400 artists from around the United States for its 44th summer. The fair includes art in a wide variety of mediums such as paintings, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, fiber, glass, woodwork, photography, folk art and more. From practical to surreal, whimsical to extravagant, there is bound to be something for everyone.

Community

9 Iconic Michigan Ice Cream Parlors to Visit 

From the upper peninsula all the way down to Jackson, Michigan is dripping with iconic ice cream parlors. How many of these classic Michigan ice cream spots have you tried?

There are more than a few iconic ice cream spots that Michigan families flock to each summer. These shops have enjoyed sustained success for their quality and service. How many of these eight have you visited, and how many more would you like to check out?  
Community

Fourth of July Fireworks in Michigan: 10 Displays to Check Out in 2024

Looking for the best fireworks in Michigan in 2024? There are destination fireworks displays and festivals all over the state between June 26 and July 4.

Looking for the best fireworks in Michigan in 2022? There are destination fireworks displays and festivals all over the state between June 24 and July 4.
Community

Michigan Bucket List: Flea Markets

This summer, there are a lot of opportunities for purchasing second-hand items. Flea markets are a perfect place to find second-hand clothing, vintage furniture items, or books you’ve been dying to read. Flea markets are also a great way to consider your carbon footprint and reconsider your use of fast fashion.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Hot Air Balloon Festivals 

Hot air balloons offer the chance to see the breathtaking sight of different colors flying through the sky and learn about the physics of the balloons. There are plenty of opportunities across the state to see these spectacles. We have a list of a few different locations and dates where you can see a hot air balloon festival in Michigan.

Community

How to Celebrate the Summer Solstice

Ready to mark the longest day of the year? Stick with us for tips on how to celebrate the summer solstice.

June summer sun solstice concept with silhouette of happy young woman's hands relaxing, meditating and holding sunset against warm golden hour sky on the beach with natural ocean or sea background
Community

Creative Ways to Thank the Father Figure in Your Life

Every year it can be a challenge to come up with something new and exciting to celebrate the father figure in your life. What to do for a man who has done so much for you? We’re here to help you come up with ideas to honor the father figure in your life.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Must Visit Lavender Festivals in Michigan

Lavender begins to bloom in Michigan early-to-mid June and continues through mid-August. Visiting these vibrant, purple-lined fields are sure to create magical memories for the whole family.

Community

Detroit Juneteenth Celebrations in 2024

Metro Detroiters can meaningfully celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in Detroit in a multitude of ways, from festivals to special dinners to educational events.

Juneteenth in Detroit
Community

Pride 2024 Events Throughout Michigan

Festivals, parades and family-friendly activities are all on tap as Pride events fill up the summer calendar across Michigan in 2024.

Girlfriends meeting at the LGBTQI pride
Community

5 Ways to Get Your Garden Ready to Plant in May 

Garden lovers, this is the season of so much anticipation. Major gardening activity typically waits until the soil warms up enough to plant the most common crops, and for us in Michigan, this usually means mid to late May

Child and mother gardening in vegetable garden in the backyard
Community

Aster Farm to Table Restaurant in Midland Focuses on Seasonality, Sustainability and Community

Beef from Stoney Grove Farm in Rodney. Whitefish caught in Lake Erie. Fresh tomatoes from Good Stead Farm in Hope. Michigan's incredible farming community is highlighted in every dish at Aster.

Community

Guide to Michigan Memorial Day Parades

Do you have plans this Memorial Day Weekend? Stop by one of the many parades and celebrations happening all over Michigan. Find a Memorial Day celebration near you.

Father and son at parade holding an American flag
Community

Michigan’s Best Farmers Markets

Michigan is home to roughly 300 farmers markets. Here are more than a half dozen of our favorites from around the state.

A woman excitedly explores her local farmers market.
Community

Ideas for a Healthy and Happy Mother’s Day

It’s time to get those Mother’s Day plans in order. Here are some food and activity-based ideas that the whole family is sure to enjoy.

A family of three jokes and has fun while baking in the kitchen.
Community

Michigan Spring Bucket List: Best Spots to See Holland’s Famous Tulips 

This West Michigan town is known for its spring tulip displays. Here are some insider tips on scenic spots to see them in full bloom.

Wooden Windmill in Holland Michigan
Community

Teacher Appreciation Week: Simple Acts to Show Appreciation

May 6 to May 10 is Teacher Appreciation Week this year. It is common to celebrate teachers during this week with events, gifts, and an outpouring of appreciation and respect for teachers and their work. Here are some examples of acts that students and parents can use to show their appreciation for teachers.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Public Golf Courses 

Ready to break out your clubs? You’re not alone. Here are some popular public golf courses to check out across the state.

Arcadia
Community

The Foodie Focus: Spotlighting Michigan Restaurants Focused on Clean Eating

The Food Focus series is coming to AHM this spring. Each month we'll chat with different restaurant owners in Michigan who prioritizes clean ingredients, sustainability or just general healthy eating. Let's dig in!

Community

Why Yooperlites Are a Pure Michigan Rock-Hunting Quest 

Ready for a late-night adventure that will land you some rocks that glow in the dark? Then you’re ready to find Yooperlites.

yooperlites_official
Community

Sensory Spaces for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

For people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, spaces that are too-bright or too-loud can be painfully overwhelming. Sensory-friendly activities can help.

Boy exercising at senory gym
Community

Michigan Spring Bucket List: Cherry Blossoms in Traverse City

Michigan has an abundance of beautiful spots spread out across both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. In the springtime, try heading to a corner of Northern Michigan known as the Cherry Capital of the World.

Cherry Blossom in Traverse City in Michigan
Community

Opening Day in Detroit: Saginaw Super Fan Sammie Telder Never Misses a Game

Saginaw native Sammie Telder doesn’t miss many pitches, swings or catches during the 162-game regular season. She can't wait to see how her Tigers perform this year.

Community

6 Michigan Cities for a Fun, Low-Cost Spring Break Trip

An exciting spring break can be found right here in Michigan. Here are six destinations to get you started.

Butterflies at Frederik Meijer Gardens
Community

2024 Spring Festivals in Michigan

This spring, make sure you make time to get outside and play. And there’s nothing that says springtime fun like the bevy of Michigan festivals you can put on your calendar.

Blurred picture of a weekend festival
Community

Planning for a Healthy, Sustainable Spring  

Make spring your healthiest, most sustainable season yet with these easy tips for your home and outdoor areas.

Happy woman with Down Syndrome ready to planting flowers. Gardening.
Community

5 Signs of Spring in Michigan

Look out for these 5 telltale signs that spring has hit Michigan. Whether you've been waiting for the blooms, for baseball starting up, or to get some ice cream from a Michigan ice cream stand, make sure to enjoy spring while it is here.

A lady with short white hair is picking out flowers at an outdoor spring market.
Community

5 Ways to Celebrate International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is set aside for us as a society to recognize and celebrate the contributions and achievements of women, including their social, political, economic, and cultural impacts. This day developed from a long tradition over the past two centuries of protests and celebrations by women laborers and women’s rights champions.

8 women together, smiling for a group picture.
Community

Explore Black History Across Michigan

Visit some of these unique Michigan gems that tell the story of African-American contributions to our state’s cultural history.

Community

PPO vs. HMO: What is the Difference?

The right healthcare plan varies from family to family and person to person. As with any big decision, knowledge is power. Whether you receive insurance through your employer or you’re self-insured, you typically have a choice between the two most common types of managed care plans – health maintenance organizations (HMOs) or preferred provider organizations (PPOs).

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Ice Tree in Gaylord

Michigan is home to many winter marvels, including the “world’s largest ice tree” in Gaylord.

Community

50 Black-Owned Restaurants to Try in the Detroit Area

This list of 50 Black-owned restaurants in the Metro Detroit area need to be on your radar, if they're not already. How many have you eaten at?

Courtesy of IVY Kitchen & Cocktails/Facebook
Community

Michigan-Themed Valentine’s Day Ideas 

How do you know you’re from The Mitten State? Maybe it’s because you know just how to celebrate Valentine’s Day with fun, friends - and a little bit of love.

A mixed race senior couple joyfully embrace a snow shower while out for a walk in the forest. They are wearing snowshoes and warm clothing. The woman has her arms raised and is looking up at the falling snowflakes. The woman's husband is in the background walking towards her. He is smiling and watching her joyous display.
Community

7 Detroit Black History Sites to Visit 

These historic Detroit sites and landmarks document both the triumphs and hardships of Black Americans who have ties to the city.

Second Baptist Church and the Alger Theater represent two of the most historic sites in Detroit in terms of significant Black history.
Community

Get to Know Michigan’s Woody the Woodchuck Ahead of Groundhog Day

Woody the Woodchuck isn't just a Michigan legend; she's known nationwide. With a personality as big as her appetite, it's easy to see why Woody is such a treasure.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Ice Fishing

During the winter, Michigan is known for its world-class ice fishing. Here are 10 lakes that are anglers’ favorites.

Community

5 Things to Do This Winter in Cadillac

There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the winter.

Community

This German Football Fan was a Foreign Exchange Student in Michigan 26 Years Ago. He Returned to Watch Detroit Win a Playoff Game.

Detroit's feel-good playoff run has been a blast for the city to follow. The team even has support overseas, as evidenced by this former Michigan foreign exchange student from Germany's unlikely tale.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Biggest Sledding Hills in Michigan

If you love sledding, you’re in the right place. Here’s our list of favorite sledding hills across Michigan.

Community

5 Things to Do This Winter in Tawas City

There’s a lot to discover in this northeastern Michigan community during the winter.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Great Lakes Ice Formations

The Great Lakes delivers some spectacular ice formations during the winters. Here’s what to look for.

Community

10 Places to Walk Indoors During Michigan Winters

Michigan gets pretty cold during winter months, but it doesn’t mean you can stop exercising. Check out these 10 places to get your 10,000 steps in indoors.

Community

5 Things to Do This Winter in Fenton

There’s a lot to discover in this Mid-Michigan community during the winter.

Community

Dr. King’s Detroit Legacy

The city of Detroit has a deep connection to the civil rights movement – especially to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Here are some of the major ways King influenced the civil rights movement in the Motor City, according to the Detroit Historical Society.

Community

5 Things to Do This Winter in Munising

There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the winter.

Community

A 5-Step Action Plan for Caregivers of Aging Parents or Loved Ones

Caring for a loved one can be tough. This simple action plan for caregivers can help you get your bearings and make your caregiving role a little easier.

Caregiver with her mom
Community

How to Treat Your Weekend Like a Vacation

When your weeks feel cyclical and repetitive, try treating a weekend like a vacation. Here's how to unplug, unwind, and get into that vacation mindset.

Community

5 Things to Do This Winter in Rochester

There’s a lot to discover in this Southeastern Michigan community during the winter.

Community

5 Things to Do This Winter in Spring Lake

There’s a lot to discover in this West Michigan community during the winter.

Community

Sustainable Holiday Gift Guide 

Ready to save money and go easy on the Earth this season? Buy your friends and family sustainable gifts.

Smiling young woman wrapping Christmas presents with recycled paper
Community

10 Family-Friendly Winter Break Activities in Metro Detroit

Looking for things to do during the kids' winter break? These indoor and outdoor ideas should ignite the holiday spirit in the whole family.

Community

5 Things to Do This Winter in St. Ignace

There’s a lot to discover in this community in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula during the winter.

Community

Winter Festivals in Michigan in 2024

Looking for festive winter events to attend? The Michigan winter festivals on this list take place between January and March of 2024.

Woman captures a photograph of another woman during the Grand Rapids World of Winter festival.
Community

Winter Break Activities in West Michigan

Step into a warm-water splash zone, join a museum mini camp, or skate away through a lighted forest trail. Winter Break activities are all about adventure. 

Community

5 Things to Do in This Winter in Traverse City

There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the winter.

Community

5 Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah in Detroit in 2023

Celebrate the Jewish “festival of lights” by attending one or more of these five Hanukkah celebrations happening in or around Detroit.

Menorah in the D
Community

Michigan Bucket List: Christmas Light Displays

One of the best Michigan winter activities is visiting one of the many extravagant Christmas light displays. Here are some of our favorites.

Community

What are Blue Zones?

Blue Zones are all the buzz when it comes to healthy living - and living longer.

Community

5 Things to Do This Fall in Bay City

There’s a lot to discover in this Mid-Michigan community during the fall.

Community

Michigan Bucket List: Christmas Markets

Christmas Markets add a sparkle to the holiday experience. Here is a list of some of the markets taking place across Michigan this season.

Community

Benne Anderson to Lead GRPS Turkey Trot as Honorary Race Director

GRPS alum and running champion Benne Anderson will serve as this year’s honorary race director.

Community

5 Things to Do This Fall in Rogers City

There’s a lot to discover in this community along Michigan’s sunrise coast during the fall.

Community

Real vs. Artificial Trees: What’s Best for You? 

It comes down to personal choice, but there’s a lot to consider when deciding between a real Christmas tree and an artificial one.

A boy with Downs syndrome decorates a Christmas tree
Community

Michigan Bucket List: Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks

If you love ice skating, you’ll want to check out these outdoor ice skating rinks and enjoy this fun winter activity.

Community

5 Things to Do This Fall in Three Oaks

There’s a lot to discover in this Southwest Michigan community during the fall.

Community

5 Winter Things to Do in Michigan

Activities are easier to come by in the summer than in the winter. We know this. But exciting winter activities in Michigan aren't as limited as you may think. Here are five fun ideas.

Community

5 Things to Do This Fall in Houghton

There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the fall. 

Community

Vegan Thanksgiving: Metro Detroit Restaurants, Food Trucks With 2023 Holiday Menus

Detroit area vegans rejoice! There’s a long list of metro Detroit and Michigan restaurants offering 100% plant-based Thanksgiving meals.

Vegan Thanksgiving spread from Detroit Street Filling Station
Community

Best and Worst Ways to Cook a Turkey 

There are so many different ways to cook a turkey. Let’s look at some of the best - and worst - ways to get this big bird onto your holiday table.

Preparing table for New year dinner
Community

How to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month in Michigan

November is Native American Heritage Month. These Michigan sites and landmarks celebrate the rich and important history of Native Americans. Check out this list of Native American-owned businesses to support as well.

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