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Some people look forward to Thanksgiving dinners, others look forward to Christmas cheer, and pretty much everyone repeats the same cycle of psyching ourselves up to hit the gym around New Year’s Eve.
While many of us will be burning the paychecks on unused gym memberships, there’s still one thing to look forward to in 2025: all the exciting travel destinations being revealed right now!
We’ve covered the 2025 recommendations from HomeToGo, The Points Guy, and Expedia, so it’s only fair to give Fodor’s a turn on the podium.
Their annual one was recently published Go listthe 2025 version sees some global icons and domestic surprises, such as the best American beach destination to be visited next year.
Here’s a hint: It’s not on the West Coast, the East Coast, or the Gulf, nor is it one of Hawaii’s paradise islands…
Are you scratching your head yet?
Vibrant blue water shores where you least expect it
When you imagine a dreamy blue-water vacation, you probably think of many beaches in Florida, San Diego, Hawaii or even the passport-free loophole in Puerto Rico.
But the last place you might think of is the Midwest. I mean, have you been to St. Louis?
It’s a beautiful city and all, but the Mississippi tide crashing against the Arch’s famous riverbanks is a far cry from the bluish tones on the color spectrum.
Well, lo and behold, Fodor’s highlights an entire state in the Midwest the only beach destination mentioned under the ‘US’ category for 2025.
That would be the great state of Michigan, home to what truly is Lake Michigan, Lake Superior and Lake Huron, all gleaming blue water from end to end.
Lakes often suffer from poor enclosure as they are often murky with rocky shores, but this trio is the rare exception with clear blue fresh water and scenic islands, a refreshing alternative to the salty sea.
And if you thought the East Coast was the focus of the lighthouse, think again. Michigan takes the cake for most lighthouses in any state, making for great pit stops for photos as you drive around the lake, with the exception of beautiful Mackinac Island, a designated no-vehicle zone.
The bottom line is, don’t sleep on Michigan for your next beach vacation. It checks all the boxes you’d expect from any other ocean beach, minus a host of all-inclusive stays and the salty breeze.
Although there is one unconventional all-inclusive stay. Take a look White Birch Lodgea family-friendly all-inclusive resort located at Grand Traverse Bay For those who do not want to see the warning after check-in that this package is only offered in summer.
Relaxed lakeside towns
For what it’s worth, Grand Traverse Bay was also highlighted by Fodor’s as an idyllic getaway full of beautiful towns, including Traverse City, where you can eat in Grand Traverse Pie Company is a must!
I don’t know about you, but I was sold on “Pie Company,” especially knowing that Traverse City is the world’s largest producer of tart cherries.
What should sell you more is that there are seemingly endless picturesque towns to build your base around, including the lakes and connecting body of water, Grand Traverse Bay, just to paint a picture.
Some of the more popular cities seeing a rise lately include the aforementioned Traverse City, home to Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) with numerous connections to major hubs, along with Glen Arbor, Torch Lake and Leland (also called “Fishtown” because of its history as a fishing village).
But if you’re looking for a timeless bed and breakfast in a small town, instead of overpriced glitz and glamour, check out Candlelite Inn Bed & Breakfast in Ludington, MI with $99 – $119 rates this winter.
Wineries galore
Lake Michigan isn’t just beautiful water, tranquil islands and charming towns; There is another great aspect that will entice you to visit: the wine country!
Wineries abound here. The perfect starting point is one of these 3 wine routes, all with divine wines from locally grown grapes:
If there’s one winery in the area you may have heard of, it’s that one St. Julian Winerythe oldest and largest in Michigan (and most awarded!).
They have 6 locations across the state. Better yet, if you can’t be there pay only $5 for shipping Order a case of 12 bottles online!
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
