Who knew that along the less than 90 mile road trip along Lake Michigan from Frankfort to Silver Lake we’d encounter charming towns, rolling farmland, a little history, and stunning lakeshore views?
From Frankfort’s sandy beaches, vibrant downtown, and iconic Point Betsie Lighthouse we headed south toward Manistee, a town rich in maritime history.
Before arriving in the city, we stopped at the S.S. City of Milwaukee, a historic car ferry moored in the harbor. Built in 1931, this vessel once transported railcars across Lake Michigan and is now a Historic National Landmark. Sadly, tours were not being offered the day we arrived. In fact, a sign on the office door that said “Sorry We’re Closed” had been pasted over with a sign that said “Sorry, We’re Dead”, which was a little disturbing.
I can’t imagine anyone not loving downtown Manistee. We were enchanted by the “Victorian Port City’s” historic charm. It’s downtown is filled with beautifully preserved 19th-centry architecture, boutique shops and mom and pop eateries. On one side of main street is a pretty park and then the Manistee Riverwalk, a scenic boardwalk that runs along the Manistee River. The gentle stroll offers pretty views of passing boats and slips.
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Leaving Manistee, we drove through miles of Michigan farmland, where rolling hills, golden fields of corn, lush green pastures, and classic barns created picture-perfect scenes. With a few puffy white clouds dotting bright blue skies, it felt like stepping into a storybook – a glimpse of rural life filled with innocence and warmth, as if seen through a child’s eyes.
The town of Ludington is another waterfront gem. Smaller than Manistee, it’s known more for it’s expansive beaches and the Ludington State Park.
Continuing south, scenic farms gradually gave way to dense forests and then sandy landscapes. Arriving at Silver Lake, we enjoyed a view of the dramatic sand dunes, popular with off-road-vehicles. The contrast of the golden dunes against the deep blue of the lake creates a scene that feels almost otherworldly. To boot, we had a pretty sunset that painted the dunes in shades of orange and pink. It was a peaceful end to a fun day filled with history, natural beauty, and small-town charm!
Another travel day in the RV proves the old proverb made famous by Ralph Waldo Emerson, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.”
Did you know that the oldest and largest aviati
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