Blogs
Best Christmas light displays in Southwest Michigan

If you want to see Christmas lights that would make Clark Griswold excitedly gaze with wonder — without the confusion of them turning on and off again — then come to Southwest Michigan! Each November, these bulbs are painstakingly placed throughout our region. Some are set to music, others you can walk through and all are a popular itinerary item for every visitor and local. Don’t miss out on the Christmas spirit! And don’t settle for less. Visit the best Christmas light displays in Southwest Michigan, and make us your home away from home for the holidays.
Southwest Michigan winter staycation ideas

Oftentimes, we all need a breather. It can take many forms — a wine tasting with friends, a meal out with your family, a solo walk along the beach and so on. These little breaks allow us to return to our daily lives refreshed after some self-care. Why should that time only last a few hours? Thousands of people come to visit Southwest Michigan annually for their vacations. Even if you live here, you could benefit from being a tourist in your own region. Looking for a weekend out or a break during the week? Look no further. Here’s your guide to vacationing right down your road with our Southwest Michigan winter staycation ideas.
Happy New Year! NO MORE ANNUAL MEMBER FEES.

We are firing up to make Southwest Michigan the #1 tourist destination in the Great Lakes states. So, we are creating the most comprehensive online list of local restaurants, shops, entertainment venues, helpful services, and other reasons to visit here. To make it happen, we need more businesses and organizations to be part of the Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council — and it’s now FREE to join!
Best mountain bike trails in Southwest Michigan

Southwest Michigan is a known destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and cyclists aren’t to be excluded. If you are looking for a fun or challenging ride with beautiful scenery, below are some of the best local mountain bike trails in Southwest Michigan to add to your itinerary.
Make holiday memories at Southwest Michigan’s Christmas tree farms

Want to make a holiday memory that will last a lifetime? A tradition you can repeat year after year, generation after generation? Come cut or choose a pre-cut fresh tree from the Christmas tree farms in Southwest Michigan.
Top 10 holiday activities in Southwest Michigan

When temperatures drop, you may be tempted to curl up at home, but you won’t want to miss all the fun that Southwest Michigan has to offer! We asked locals to list some of their favorite winter activities and traditions. When you’re ready to come out of hibernation, we have plenty to keep you entertained throughout the holiday season. Trade in your wool blanket for a countryside blanketed in freshly fallen snow, and end your day socializing in front of a roaring fire. Winter is a special occasion here, so join us for our seasonal celebrations and top 10 holiday activities in Southwest Michigan!
Thanksgiving activities in Southwest Michigan

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and Southwest Michigan is stuffed full of activity! While you’re waiting around for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, preparing your feast or watching the Detroit Lions with hope in your heart, here are some Thanksgiving activities in Southwest Michigan to keep your visit exciting.