Northern Michigan Vacations: Local art, beachside towns, a stretch of boardwalk. Check out the art fairs across Benzie County this summer!
Arcadia
This tiny coastal burg is set amid sandy bluffs and offers sweeping Lake Michigan views at overlooks like Inspiration Point. Popular summer fest: Arcadia Daze Celebration, with arts and crafts, car racing, parades and family fun. Stick around for the laser light show, fireworks display and dancing at dusk—July 26–28.
Benzonia
A quiet community with beautiful rolling hills, Benzonia features the Benzie Area Historical Museum and the county’s visitor center. Stock up on beach reads at the Mills Community House’s annual used book sale, so popular it feels like a festival, June 28–29.
Beulah
Set right along the shore of Crystal Lake, the charming village offers visit-worthy restaurants, antique shops, inns, a beach and family-friendly park. Fest: The Beulah Art Fair, July 6, presents dozens of booths in the town’s lakefront park.
Elberta
Tucked between Betsie Bay and a Lake Michigan bluff, Elberta’s claim to fame is its gorgeous, Great Lake beach and a few eclectic shops. Check out the Solstice Festival, June 22, noon to 2 a.m. and, at the height of summer, Elberta presents the annual Arts and Crafts fair, July 20.