Every spring when the lilacs are in bloom, we set aside a day for our annual “Lilac Tour” of Grand Marais, Michigan. Situated beside Lake Superior, this quaint little town is well worth the time to visit. We take our bicycles and pack bird books, binoculars, snacks, and extra clothing to suit the ever-changing weather … And a couple twenty dollar bills in case we find something we want to eat!!
Which we always do. There are several restaurants in Grand Marais. Lately, we’ve been stuck on the Diner, though. It’s located in an old train car, as well as the attached building, and they have a wonderful menu (as well as a delightful shop and meat counter). Personally, I think their BLT is the best in the world. Lots of bacon cooked perfectly, stacked up with lettuce and tomatoes between your choice of homemade breads — it’s so thick that I truly can’t bite the whole thing, and have to work on it in nibbles. Mmmmm! I wish I had a BLT right now!
Before lunch, we hike in the Au Sable Dunes. And sometimes, we bike from the Dunes into town. After our lunch, we like to bike around town and then head out east of town, stopping at several Piping Plover nest observation locations. Usually we can find official observers there, often from TNC, who can give us an update on the nest activity.
If you get a chance, plan your own visit to Grand Marais. Come ready for a great sandwich and breathtaking views of dunes, beaches, birds, and a lovely little village.
