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The 5 Best #Fall Roads in #Michigan

There is a part of us that really loves fall. We can’t kid ourselves. The crisp air and the hot cocoa invites us in for some football, comfort food, the slow switch to fall scent candles, and a warm fuzzy blanket. This fall, get outdoors and enjoy the reoccurring miracle of nature that happens when the leaves change color and give off vibrant hues that paint the perfect fall picture.

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1. Glen Arbor- take Highway 22 along Lake Michigan to view the serene lakeside and vivacious fall color that is a scene rarely replicated by other areas in the region. Experience a vast lake behind all the beautiful color that highway 22 can show off. Be sure to check out the Sleeping Bear Dunes as well!

2. Ludington- US 10 provides ample opportunity to check out the beautiful arrays of fall color ranging from yellows to passionate reds. There’s plenty of scenic lake views of Lake Michigan and other lakes as well that makes this one of the favored trips in Michigan. To view a map of the possible routes for your fall color tour, check out: Ludington Fall Color Tour

3. Eagle River- Hop onto M-26 and hit the cruise control button because you will need it. As you pass wineries, churches, and lighthouses, it will be hard to pay attention to the actual road. You will be under a blanket of mesmerizing fall colors. Don’t forget to roll your window down slightly to take in the fall smells as well!

4. Cadillac- Dubbed as an unforgettable experience,  Cadillac is home to  several train fall color tours. While fall is amazing and the trees stay mesmerizing for a couple of weeks, one thing you have to experience is the locomotive tour. Sit back and relax while taking in the color transformation. Tickets do sell out fast so prepare ahead of time. If trains are not your cup of tea, plan on the middle of October for the best scenic drive.

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5. Ironwood- Head north on 513 towards Black River Parkway that twists and turns by forests and flowing waterfalls and takes you straight to a harbor on Lake Superior.  Add Copper Peak, a ski flying hill to the itinerary because the view is majestic from the observation deck, 1881 feet above sea level and sits 18 stories high. You can see Minnesota, Porcupine Mountian and the Apostle Islands, weather permitting.

Generally, we say that all of Michigan is great and we encourage everyone to stay at least a week and travel around to experience everything each area has to offer; from the sugary sand beaches that stretch for miles, to the forests and wildlife areas and bustling cities like the Grand Rapids. Michigan is truly an unforgettable experience.

For a list of vacation rentals head to www.RentMichiganCabins.com. We invite you to book your Michigan vacation rental DIRECTLY with the rental owners and property managers! Booking direct guarantees you get the best rate AND you avoid ugly double-booking pitfalls.

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Here’s a UP bonus suggestion: Brockway Mnt. Drive. Upper Peninsula chose the road as the region’s “favorite natural wonder” in a poll conducted by WLUC-TV.

Relax. Enjoy your search. You’re on Michigan cabin time now.

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The Best 5 “Drives” for Wisconsin Fall Colors.

An intensive guide to not only Wisconsin Fall Color but to the festivals, and hobbies to go along with the scenic drive. Pack up the car now and head to one of these areas for a great fall getaway.

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Let’s be honest with each other, Fall is one of everyone’s favorites in the Midwest and it’s not because of our perfect summers either. It’s because summer for most means traveling, jammed pack days at the beach, pool, zoo or family reunions. It’s simply not the case in fall.  Sure, school is in session and kids go back into sports but what happens with the chilly nights settle over us? Do you step away from the TV? Hide indoors? Why not check out what Wisconsin is all about? It’s about reconvening with nature and nature is really exciting when it prepares for winter, don’t you think? Let’s take a look at the top 10 places in Wisconsin to check out fall color!

1. Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive. This is one of the first areas to notice the leaves change-this 115 mile stretch that starts near Whitewater and unwinds by Sheboygan county. The roads purpose it tought be created solely for the scenic drive. Be sure to download the PDF with directions from Wisconsin DNR here: Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive. This forest offers panoramic views of the trees adapting to cooler weather.

2. Door County Coastal Highway– this takes you right into the peninsula that showcases 66 miles of fall color. There are many ways to view this foliage as well. Take your own self-guided tour, but be sure to plan a couple of days to thoroughly enjoy all of Door County. While winding down the highway take in all the special restaurants and see what the gifted chefs have to offer. Hop aboard the Door County Trolley to truly take in all the color and wonderful smells.

3. Great River Road– otherwise known as Highway 10 whispers along the Wisconsin Driftless Area. This gives up countless views of wetlands, trees, bluffs, and wildlife so you might get more than you bargain for when it comes to looking for just fall foliage but nonetheless, it is a great road traveled.

4. Waupaca– Waupaca offers much more than just fall foliage. This road trip offers excitement at the end of the day with jazz festivals and apple harvests. Enjoy the fall foliage from a canoe, where the water soothes the soul and the trees tell a story of changing over spirits of the seasons. While there, be sure to check out the Chain O’ Lakes Blues Festival in October.

5. The Turtle Flambeau Scenic Waters Area– Head towards Popko East and know that this is a great opportunity to witness Wisconsin’s true beauty that makes living up north priceless. One of our personal favorites in our office at www.RentWisconsinCabins.com, this road is a self guided, 20 mile, 15 stop tour that shows you humans interaction with nature and the give and take that relationship we have with it. Notice the red pines, white ash, sugar maples,oak, birch, elm and the Aspen trees changing color as the brisk evenings turn into milder days in October. Bring your binoculars and fishing pole because among the flowage, wildlife is abundant and there are lots of places to pull over and wet a line right from shore. Have a glimpse of bear, eagles, deer, grouse, you name it in the north, you will probably see it. It is one of the best fishing areas in the state!

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Fall scenic road trips in Wisconsin are very easy on the budget. Head to the Gas Buddy Website to estimate your trip cost.

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Why Rent a Vacation Home in Saugatuck, Michigan? Todd Smith Explains Why!

As life unwinds within your bustling family or if your soul become restless in an effort to experience coastal life where art and humanities are the attractions among a beach town, you will be rest assured in Saugatuck-Douglas, Michigan. Saugatuck-Douglas is known as the Art Coast of Michigan –with a wide assortment of art galleries, fine restaurants, vineyards…and of course, all of the popular activities our proximity to Lake Michigan affords. Moreover, we invite you to stay at a wonderful beachside cottage called Great Lakes Manor. These cottages are nestled in some of the most desirable areas of the nation and we can’t make that up.  Conde Nast’s Traveler Magazine has spotlighted these towns as one of the 25 top shoreline towns in America and the 11th greatest beach town in America and we are talking lots of competition!

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The Great Lakes Manor Cottages are top notch in the area and owner, Todd Smith says “My family and I have always loved unique properties: finding them, restoring and/or personalizing them, and sharing them with friends. About 10 years ago, we acquired our first property and after renovations to make it comfortable for our personal use, decided to dip our toes in the vacation rental world….and found out we loved it! We made many new friends along the way, friends who loved and enjoyed our home as if it was their own. We decided this could become an interesting business for us, and so acquired our second property, and now enjoy making new friends, and creating atmosphere with all the comforts of home: in interesting places.”

Close to everything, but still away from it all!

We love the location of your place…close to downtown Saugatuck and Lake Michigan but off the busy streets tucked away in a peaceful setting. We enjoy getting on our bikes and riding down the street to Lake Shore Drive where we can leisurely take in the coastline. This last time we stayed, the weather was so beautiful that we spent time each day sitting relaxing by the pond and enjoying all the birds singing. Our cottage was so clean and fresh. We are definitely coming back!

The history of the place is fascinating as well, which dates back to 1870 when the property was built, consisting of a five bedroom Manor house and three detached cottages, each of which rents together for your next all-together family and friends vacation or separately for your own little getaway. It is even a bike friendly town allowing you easy access to everything in Saugatuck, Michigan. Great Lakes Manor was acquired by Todd Smith and family back in 2010 and began a massive renovation of the 5 bedroom manor house which had been running as a B&B but then turned it into a vacation rental. Todd continues to say that “With a hot tub, small pond, and recreation room for all our guests, the property offers something for everyone. And we’re just a mile in either direction from the area’s two favorite beaches, and a short bike ride into the twin towns of Douglas and Saugatuck, too!” So enjoy the swaying hammock, a dinner and a show, a sip of wine at the winery or paint by the water, pick one or all!

Rest in a Hammock!

Rest in a Hammock!

Keep in mind, this gorgeous area is very popular so between April-October is our peak season and most rentals require a two night minimum stay just as the cottages do, but Manor House requires a 3 night minimum night stay. If traveling in the winter, there is still plenty to do! Ride in a horse drawn carriage under winter blankets, walk along the frozen coast and duck into a shop for hot cocoa. Don’t forget your snowshoes or skis!

Enjoy one of the local favorite attractions, which is the Saugatuck Sand Dune Rides. Strap into an open-air “Suburban”-type vehicle with your friends and enjoy a thrilling, heart pumping, adrenaline adventure as your tour guide takes you through Saugatuck’s privately owned sand dunes. This cottage can also be perfect for older families and weddings as well as a perfect team building vacation.

Gorgeous Claw Foot Bathtub

Gorgeous Claw Foot Bathtub

Advice from Todd? “People tend to forget the beach towels and sunblock so if that happens to you, be sure to check out the small business about a half mile from us that rents beach equipment and cycles, sundries and even ice for the cooler!”

“This area is historic, relaxed, and peaceful. This not only describes our property but the area as a whole” Grab your paint brushes, your picnic basket and your favorite wine and enjoy Saugatuck’s rich history, friendly locals and have a great stay at Great Lakes Manor and Cottages.  For additional information, check out this property’s details page.

Relax and Enjoy the warm hot tub on cooler nights

Relax and Enjoy the warm hot tub on cooler nights

Get to know your owner! Todd Smith most enjoys the spring time when the cycle of life renews itself. He tells us that he will probably regret retiring as he loves to stay active and enjoy all that life offers us! You might even find him hiking in the area!

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We promise! This is the Best Romantic Cabin In Wisconsin

Whether you are on your honeymoon or celebrating an anniversary in Wisconsin, this cabin is for you!

Capture the warmth

Capture the warmth

Congratulations! No need to look any further! This cabin is delightfully gorgeous, sitting deep into the most colorful array of trees; the sun peeking out oh so perfectly that you will think you are in heaven. Hauser’s Cabin has it all. You want the beach? The romantic sunset on the deck? Maybe you won’t leave the property at all. This PET FRIENDLY cabin near the Apostle Islands is fully furnished with so much to do that you will not get bored! See why Milwaukee Sentinel voted this one of the top 10 cabins in Wisconsin!

With Wisconsin’s northern most picturesque town, Cornucopia only 15 miles away, why wouldn’t you consider this beautiful place? Let’s start with the inside. This 1 bedroom cabin has free WIFI and SIRIUS SATELLITE RADIO! Watch a movie on Amazon Prime in bed on the New Queen Sertia iComfort Savant bed with remote control to ensure maximum comfort.

Just wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed staying at the cabin ~ You did an incredible job with the remodel. It was just our aesthetic. Cozy, modern, and rustic all rolled into one. The thing I really appreciated was the attention to the lighting. I love dimmers and soft light which was done perfectly in the cabin. It was a great home away from home and we hope to stay again in the near future. The sled dog races were great! We were intentionally off the grid at your cabin (though you have Wifi and movies via Amazon Prime) – which was what we wanted. The nature views were very serene. Our dog loved it too! It was perfect! You were professional and timely in your communication and that was noticed and appreciated. Christine

Wake up in the morning and cook gourmet breakfast in the fully equipped kitchen stocked with dishes and spices and furnished with granite marble tops and top of the line appliances.

Feeling cold in the long winter afternoons? Sit by the fireplace and enjoy the sofa and chaise lounge chair with a cup of cocoa and challenge each other to friendly rounds of board games.

Ready to adventure outside? You will never be bored with the endless activities. Contemplate your day starting out on the deck with some coffee and ponder whether you are going to the warm, shallower beach (which is practically your own) or whether you want to go on a hike, a bike ride or explore by sailboat or kayak to the islands that populate near Lake Superior’s shore. Want a nice romantic weekend getaway filled with adventure? This cabin is perfect for skiers whether is it is downhill or cross-country skiing and the snowmobile trail is right out the front door! Make sure you take in the Apostle Island Annual Dog Sled Races. While there make sure you check out the ICE CAVES, A NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED LANDMARK that has travelers from all over the world exploring it. Need more details? Click here for more information, rates and availability.

Stay warm by the fire, whether you’re inside or outside by the fire pit but remember the one reason you are there; to share the enjoyment the sheer beauty of solitude and simplicity together.

Got a larger group? Visit RentWisconsinCabins.com when it’s time to find the ideal Wisconsin cabin, cottage, lodge, or home.

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Make “Someday” Today: Battling the Fears that Keep You From Traveling

insightful!

Theresa Christine's avatarTremendous Times

Man and woman at waterfall Let’s talk hopes, dreams, & fears.

This post is available to listen to and/or download on Soundcloud.

Over July 4th weekend, I’m proud to say I checked a pretty big thing off of my bucket list: I went skydiving!

This is something that I’d sort of put in the back of my mind to accomplish someday. It’s so effortless to say that, isn’t it? Someday I’ll go to that museum, someday I’ll hike through the Grand Canyon, someday I’ll live abroad… It’s just easier to declare, “I’ll do that one day,” than to actually act on it, even if it means doing a small something that is part of a bigger something. And this doesn’t just go for exploring the world. Anyone can say, “I’ll show more appreciation to others tomorrow,” or “Next month I’ll take the bus to work instead of drive.” Making the change and doing…

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5 advantages of booking directly with vacation rental owners and property managers

RentMichiganCabins.com invites you to book your Michigan vacation rental DIRECTLY with rental owners and property managers! It’s the best way to avoid ugly booking pitfalls. There are many advantages – here are our top 5.

  1. The commission fees vacation rental owners pay to 3rd party booking websites (typically about 18%) inflates costs, which renters end up paying.
  2. After making your reservation, you can make any changes necessary directly with the rental owners or property managers.
  3. Avoid the double booking jungle and the follow-up attempt to cobble together a discount for alternative travel dates. 3rd party booking websites can be frustrating and full of unpleasant surprises. The owners, or property managers are the best source for current availabilities.
  4. Early check in and late checkout options are best addressed with the owners and managers. Booking indirect means you have to talk to the 3rd party website you booked through who in turn needs to talk to the owners/property manager.
  5. Many of the “middlemen” booking websites have inadequate and poor customer service, plus the booking process can be misleading and confusing. Also, those sites won’t help you with suggestions about “what to do” once you’ve arrived at your vacation rental. Owners and property managers are your best tour guides.

When you send an inquiry, or call about any listing on RentMichiganCabins.com, you’re communicating directly with the vacation rental owner or property manager — the expert who will help you create a memorable vacation experience and give you some tips on how to ‘live like a local’.

Relax. Enjoy your search. You’re on cabin time now!

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Brainerd, MN – An Outdoor Mecca for Reel Livin’

Brainerd, MN may be a mecca for outdoor recreation, however have we really seen everything that Brainerd may have to offer? You can bike, hike, snowmobile, race, fish, swim, and much more!

Let’s just dive into it and what we mean by that is, diving with the Minnesota School of Diving in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation area. This school offers lots of different activities. One that stuck out to me is what they call all appropriately a Fun Dive. Fun Dives are offered throughout the season. These dives consist of underwater diving in different depths and sites – great for beginners and experts. Fun Dives also include a BBQ with hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, etc. Spend the day on Minnesota lakes!

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Click here  to view a Dive from the Minnesota Scuba Diving School!

Diving isn’t the only thing you can do in the Cuyuna Country State Recreation area. This area has ample opportunities to go out and enjoy what you love to do. Thirty years ago this area was abandoned by the mining companies. With the neglect of these companies and the clean-up effort of the DNR, this area now boasts over 25 miles of sandy shoreline that kiss clear, pristine waters.

Looking for more noise and excitement? Brainerd is home to the “World Fastest Drag Strip” at the Brainerd International Speedway. This speedway has three world class race strips and also offers driving courses for all kinds of enthusiasts and also features racing for snowmobiles and motocross. One of the favorite events here is Lake Jams, in June. This is where you take the naturally beautiful backdrop of the Brainerd area and combine with the music industry hot shots such as REO Speedwagon, Bret Michaels, Clay Walker and Maggie Rose. Be sure to plan your next vacation around Lakes Jam or in August for the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals.

Exploring the Paul Bunyan State trail is ranked as one of the best things to do in Brainerd — 120 miles of paved recreation heaven for the adventurist. The pavement definitely makes hiking and biking the long trail easier. Make this a day recreation trip and come back to stay at one of our cabins in Brainerd, right off of North Long Lake, one of Minnesota’s largest lakes.

North Long Lake is known for its walleye population, but largemouth bass and northern pike can be abundant in this 6,000 acre lake. Need a place to stay after all day in the sun? The Reel Livin’ Resort in Brainerd is the perfect place for you to stay! You can access to their 14 foot boat, or fish right off the pier! They have several cabins, outfitted with WIFI, outdoor grills and fire pits for evening enjoyment as well. Gather around the fire here to relax and recoup with loved ones! RentMinnesotaCabins.com helps you create these Cabin-Time memories!

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Another great asset to the Brainerd Lakes area is Deacon’s Lodge– Brainerd Golf Course. This stunning layout will spoil you! The lush green landscape translates into pure bliss when walking the course as you go through wetlands, lakes and forest scenery. There is also lodging on the golf course that accommodates up to 20 guests. Enjoy the wet bar, poker and pool table along with discounted golf rates if you stay at the lodge. August and September are the best months to golf!

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If you enjoy the winter recreation that Minnesota has to offer, check out the many options you have. Whether you take a liking to winter tubing, skiing or snowboarding the place to be is Mount Ski Gull. This is nonprofit facility that caters to everyone and leaves no one out and believes in compassion. This is a great facility to use for the family!

Whether you’re here for the summer, fall or winter; Brainerd has pretty cool opportunities for the entire family, so buckle up and head the Brainerd for a spectacular and memorable vacation!

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We recommend your start your search for Minnesota cabins, cottages, lodges and homes at RentMinnesotaCabins.com. Our one-of-a-kind Narrow Your Search tool and  interactive map will help you find Minnesota vacation rentals that fit YOUR needs. We believe your Minnesota vacation should start with the Search. And the best part is, you connect, plan and book directly with rental owners or managers to assure you get the best rate. Booking through 3rd party websites means you’ll likely pay more (for the same rental) to cover listing commissions.