Escanaba is a place where serene lakes are surrounded by sophisticated comfort—a destination that combines natural beauty with luxurious indulgence on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Bay de Noc. This Michigan town is beautiful in da moonlight.
Michigan native, Jeff Daniels, put his hometown on the map with the 2001 film, Escanaba in Da Moonlight, about a father on the night before opening day of deer hunting season. The comedy also starred Daniels’ two sons, Ben and Lucas, and his daughter, Nellie. The film definitely showed us just how funny Jeff Daniels can be, but there’s nothing funny about the beauty you’ll find in Escanaba, Michigan.
Your Upper Peninsula—or U. P., as Michiganders call it—journey begins at the Terrace Bay Hotel, where classy amenities meet panoramic lakeside vistas and set the tone for a relaxing getaway. Your alarm clock? No need. Wake up to the gentle sounds of the waves against the shore, and then enjoy a gourmet breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant before heading out for a day of fun.
Sailboat, pontoon, or canoe? In these calm and pristine waters, it’s all about the experience you want to have. Rent a pontoon for a day spent lounging on the water, or try your hand at catching some of the area’s renowned walleye or trout from a handmade wooden canoe.
If you prefer land-based activities, tour the Sand Point Lighthouse or take in the local arts scene at the Bonifas Arts Center. You can schedule a guided tour to explore local and regional artists’ works, and then reserve a table at the Hereford & Hops Steakhouse and Brewpub, where you can savor premium cuts of the best steaks paired with craft beers brewed on-site. For a more intimate setting, the Stonehouse Restaurant’s elegant atmosphere pairs well with its menu of fresh seafood dishes. As the day winds down, sip a cocktail on the terrace as the sunset paints the sky pink and gold.
Escanaba may be off the so-called well-worn path, but it’s a destination that offers a wealth of experiences for families and solo travelers alike.
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