This week, our travels took us to Grayling, MI—most notably known for the AuSable River Canoe Marathon. I wasn’t there to canoe, and definitely not for a marathon canoe trip. I was there to meet up with our oldest daughter, Molly. She lives in Sault Ste. Marie and had to travel to Grayling today, so we decided to meet halfway, have lunch, and do a little exploring.
We used to spend a lot of time in this quaint city. They have a Jellystone campground, and it was the perfect place for my husband to drop us off for a month during the summer. It was great! I had a camper with electricity and a bathroom, and it didn’t take much time to clean. The kids had lots of friends, a swimming pool, a playground, and a jumping pillow to keep them occupied. Keeping it real: The year our camper was invaded by spiders was NOT great. I still have nightmares.
Those were the days. Unfortunately, kids grow up, and high school sports interfere with summer camping trips. Needless to say, I haven’t done anything other than pass through Grayling for the past seven+ years.
First Stop: Spike’s Keg O’ Nails
I, of course, had to try their Famous Spikeburger. Molly had the shrimp tacos. Both were delicious, and the portions were larger than we could finish.
Spike’s has a lovely outdoor patio if you prefer dining al fresco. If not, bring a sweatshirt—they like to keep their indoor temperatures at frostbite levels. I’m not complaining; I had a sweatshirt on. But everyone else was rushing outside to grab theirs. And I mean literally everyone.
Exploring the Farmer’s Market
Next door to Spike’s is the Farmer’s Market. There was lots of produce and a few crafters selling their wares. I purchased a candy onion—because I’ve never heard of one before. It looks like a regular white onion. We’ll see what it tastes like. Is it sweeter than a sweet onion??? Have you ever tried a candy onion? If so, comment your thoughts. I’ll update you on my findings.
I also bought some fresh dill and a cucumber for a pasta salad I’ll be making this weekend.
As you know, I’m a sucker for local artist entrepreneurs (artipreneurs?). Today, I treated myself to some loose-leaf spearmint tea and strawberry earrings. There’s a nice little riverwalk area next to the market and a playground for those traveling with children.
Donut Time at Goodale’s
Every good trip ends with a donut! One of my favorite bakeries is Goodale’s, and it’s located right in Grayling. I could spend all day in this bakery just looking at their wide variety of baked goodies.
It smells like sugar glaze and cinnamon—a delicious combination that entices everyone who enters to purchase something. We picked up some Chaos Cookies (similar to kitchen sink cookies), blueberry donuts, and a cheesecake danish.
A Quick Stop at Tip’n the Mitten
I’m disappointed that I didn’t have enough time to explore the bustling downtown area more thoroughly. It looks like there are lots of new stores to check out.
The one store we did make time for—Tip’n the Mitten—was awesome and also smelled amazing. They have a great assortment of Made in Michigan products. They also serve ice cream, but I didn’t analyze the flavor variety because I was too scared to get close, for fear I’d want to buy some.
If I even look at ice cream these days, I gain five pounds!
Until Next Time…
Next time I’m in Grayling, I’ll be sure to allow more time to explore the downtown shops. Although, it’s probably a good thing I didn’t have time—my credit card balances are expanding as fast as my rear end from “looking” at ice cream!
What I’m reading on this trip:
The Bean Trees – another free Kindle Unlimited book!
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Shopping List for a trip to Grayling:
Tiger Balm – I pulled a muscle in my back at Sam’s Club yesterday, yes, my cart was a little too full, so Tiger Balm was necessary for a road trip. It smells so much better than other muscle ointments.
Charging Cord – Get yourself 2 of these! One for the backseat passengers and one for you up front
Car Seat Cushion – Just what I need for my aching back muscles!
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