I know nothing about Michigan but hear that it is a great place to vacation. I am looking for a resort type place on the water close to shopping and rest. We love to ride bikes and spend time in the water. We also have a 16 month old. Any resort type towns that you know of would be appreciated- cost isnt an issue.

Have you heard of Mackinac Island? It's a beautiful island in the northern part of Michigan. It's very quaint. Used to be a British post in the Revolutionary War. LOTS of history there. Vehicles are not allowed. Transportation is by bicycle and horse carriage. Much of the island is not inhabited but the port where the boat ferries bring you in has hotels, restaurants and shopping. A bike path will take you all the way around the island. I believe it's a 7-10 mile ride. The shopping is mostly of the tourist type. The warmest months are July and August - 80 degrees. June is beautiful too. Father's Day weekend (usually) they have a Lilac Festival. There are over 200 species of lilacs. The Grand Hotel is located there. The movie Somewhere it Time was filmed there. More great spots to check out is Petoskey, Charlevoix and Harbor Springs. All in Northern MI and on the water. Beautiful scenery and SUPERB shopping. Sort of exclusive communities.

I would agree that Mackinaw Island is a great place to visit on Lake Huron. We had a wonderful time with our family there. My six year son still talks about it and that was three years ago. We stay in Mackinaw City and took the Ferry over to the Island. There are more chain motels-hotels in the city. Mackinaw City has a wonderful downtown area. the shopping and food is great and very reasonable. The Mighty Mackinaw Bridge is also a cool experience to cross over to the UP.

Dave, I live in the area and had the thrilling experience of being able to go up inside the bridge.
http://www.geocities.com/Heartland/P...nacbridge.html

Michigan is GREAT! So many lakes, so little time. My favor is about half way up on Lake Michigan. Much less touristy than those noted above. The Sleeping Bear Dunes area and just North and South are a natural resource that if they occurred on either coast would be in the top ten of all vacation destinations. You have 1000 acres for pedestrians and 1000 plus more for the 4 and 2 wheeled vehicles. I have never seen kids of any age have more fun. Blue water and lots of lodging choices for families. Most have walk down beachfronts and everything else a good summer vacation needs. Send for a Michigan guide from the state. It arrives promptly and gives you lots and lots of choices. Hope your little one gets to make a castle with moats.