Serving New Buffalo, Benton Harbor, St. Joseph, South Haven, Fennville, Glenn, Douglas, Saugatuck, Holland, Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Muskegon

Stacks Image 0
Stacks Image 1
Stacks Image 2
Stacks Image 3
Stacks Image 4
Red and Yellow Tulips
Stacks Image 6
Stacks Image 7
Stacks Image 8

Perhaps the truth depends on a walk along the lake. -- Wallace Stevens

Those of us who spend time along the shores of Lake Michigan know there is such a thing as a ‘lake effect’. Whether heading south from Saugatuck-Douglas down the coast to Chicago, or turning north from Holland to Muskegon and points beyond, the lake is never far away. Even on the most hectic day, it is possible to tap into the sense of well-being and tranquility that seems to surround the vast clear lake that the Ojibwa called mishigami, or ‘great water’.

Grand Traverse Light - Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan
photo: By Rodney Campbell
Lighting the Lake: Grand Traverse Light

Grand Traverse Light, one of the oldest lighthouses in Michigan, has guided sailors around the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula since 1852. The attractive lighthouse has survived the storms of northern Michigan, raids by pirates and even a ghostly visitor or two. Explore the history of the light marking the entrance to Grand Traverse Bay.

Felt Mansion portico - Laketown Township, Michigan

Dorr Felt was the inventor of the mechanical calculator called the Comptometer. After making millions with his creation, he wanted to create a beautiful lakeside cottage to be enjoyed by his whole family. Unfortunately tragedy befell the family immediately following its completion. Visit our Haunted Felt Mansion page to learn more.

Apples on the ground in an orchard - Fennville, Michigan
Apples 101: How to Pick and Store Michigan's Favorite Fruit

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away." Luckily Michigan has many apple varieties available in great abundance due to the "lake effect" that moderates the weather near the shores. But which one should you choose? Apples 101 will help you decide which of these delicious fruits will appeal to your taste, along with giving you tips for picking, cooking and storage. Even if they don't actually cut your doctor bills, you can still get healthy enjoyment from Michigan's favorite fruit.

different varieties of apples in white bags for sale

Good weather means the harvest has been abundant this year. Make sure to visit our Apple Orchards and Farmers Markets pages to find our where to get the best fruits and vegetables that Michigan has to offer.

Camp Office sign at a west Michigan campground
Camping Along Lake Michigan

The colors of turning leaves mark the end of the season and your last chance to enjoy a camping trip at a site near the Lake Michigan shoreline. Check all the campsites out on our popular Lake Effect Guide Camping page.

Autumn days are rapidly growing shorter, so be on the beach at the right time to catch a beautiful Southwest Michigan sunset. Use our Beaches and Sunset Times pages to make sure you don't miss out.

Don't forget to check out the Calendar of Events for October and November. There's always something happening on the lakeshore.

Unless otherwise indicated, all Lake Effect Living photographs
are the work and property of Sharon Pisacreta.