Bridge: A structure carrying a pathway or roadway over a depression or obstacle or a time, place, or means of connection or transition.

Visiting Charlevoix, Michigan and the surrounding Michigan cities has been a family tradition for three generations. In the summertime we would pack up the car and enjoy the scenic route from the Metro-Detroit area across the state to the quiet towns that make northern Michigan the perfect escape from suburban life. We would take in all the beauty it had to offer; the plentiful lake views, glowing sunsets on the horizon, the countless piers, serene lakeshores, and sandy beaches, along with the historic properties and structures that speak to the history of this great state.

Beyond all of these things, we spent time watching the historic memorial bridge, a mainstay of the city of Charlevoix, which was always a highlight of our travels. The bridge seen above in Charlevoix is known as a bascule bridge, one that is hinged at the bottom and opens in the middle. It was tradition for us to sit on the pier on the Pine River Channel with lunch from a local shop and watch the bridge open and allow the sailboats, speedboats, barges, and the Beaver Island boat to pass through. Many states have places of refuge, but Northern Michigan, especially the Charlevoix shores have allowed me to have some of the best memories from my childhood; I am sure that many others do as well. Based on my experiences, I hope to continue the traditions that were established by my ancestors.

There are so many travel destinations to choose from, why not think Michigan?