July in Review + August Preview
July was a busy, beautiful month on the blog. From guides that helped families make the most of summer weekends to timely resources for July 4th celebrations and lakeside fun, readers flocked to some of our most popular stories yet.
And July also saw the debut of two exciting new columns, welcoming fresh voices and perspectives on Michigan travel, books, and mental health while traveling.
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New Columns Launched
This month we welcomed two new regular contributors to the blog:
“Booked in Michigan” by Andrea Melaragni
Andrea’s column celebrates bookish travel, bookshop reviews, reading lists, and literary adventures around Michigan. Her debut post, “Viola & Vine: A Tea-rific Michigan Collaboration,” offered a lovely look at a charming bookshop-meets-tearoom destination that’s perfect for readers seeking cozy spots to explore.
“Mental Health While Traveling” by therapist Elise McNulty
Elise’s new column focuses on helping parents keep mental health top of mind during family travel. Her first piece, “Real Talk: Vacationing with Kids Isn’t Really a Vacation — But It Can Still Be Good,” struck a chord, reminding families that even imperfect trips can offer wonderful memories and opportunities to reset expectations.
Most-Read Posts in July
Here’s what readers loved most in July:
- Best Lake Huron Beaches for Families (Sunrise-Watching Approved)
- 9 Best Places to Watch Fireworks in Michigan with Kids
- A Romantic Microvacation to Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Ultimate Guide to Lake Activities for Toddlers
- Best Small Town 4th of July Celebrations Around Michigan
- A Sky Full of Wonder: The Ultimate Fall Family Weekend in Traverse City
- 14 Michigan Micro-Vacation Ideas
- Real Talk: Vacationing with Kids Isn’t Really a Vacation — But It Can Still Be Good
- Up North Trip Essentials: Ready, Set, Pack
What’s Coming in August
August will be packed with helpful guides, reviews, and inspiration for squeezing every last drop out of summer—and getting a head start on fall planning.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the posts readers can look forward to:
- Restaurant reviews: Margaux at JW Marriott in Grand Rapids and MDRD at Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids
- Hotel reviews: Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids and Hobby Crest Resort in Ludington
- Travel guides: Detroit Riverwalk and Bike Guide, Family Guide to Lansing During Move-In Week, Rowing in Michigan, Family Guide to Pickleball in Michigan: Courts, Clubs, and Tips, and more
- Seasonal content: Best Michigan Farmers Markets for Late Summer, Best Scenic Drives for Fall Color Preview, Top Spots for a Labor Day Weekend Getaway in Michigan
- Fun niche topics: Best Kid-Friendly Breweries and Beer Gardens, Best Pet-Friendly Cabins, and Hidden Gem Small Town Festivals
Plus, new installments of “Booked in Michigan” and “Mental Health While Traveling” will return to enrich August’s lineup.
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