The Verdant Ramble

Explore fall around Cross Village with our favorite scenic drives, walks, farms, shops, food and places to stay. Our interactive map makes it easy to discover fall color beyond the Tunnel of Trees and plan a day filled with memorable local stops throughout northern Emmet County.

Planning a drive along Michigan's famous Tunnel of Trees in 2026? Follow our suggested scenic route for navigating the M-119 closures while discovering Harbor Springs, Good Hart, Cross Village, Legs Inn, and other favorite stops along one of the Midwest's most scenic drives.

From KISS in Cadillac to Harry Houdini’s final days in Detroit, October is filled with memorable Michigan milestones. Explore a month of Great Lakes State history spanning automobiles, arts, sports, bridges, broadcasting, natural wonders and a few unexpected firsts.

Discover a fascinating piece of Michigan history with our first “From Peninsulas' Archives” post — a rare set of 1909 trivia cards filled with stories about the people, industries, and traditions that shaped the state. Join us as we explore these vintage treasures and share more glimpses into Michigan’s past.

What makes our holiday cards so sought-after? We collaborate with local illustrators and printers to create high quality designs fit for any upstanding Michigander's mailbox. Read on to see why our Michigan holiday greeting cards are perfect for your Christmas or holiday gifts and gatherings.

There’s no better way to get into the Halloween spirit than to carve some pumpkins! Watching your candlelit carvings come alive as the sun sets is a great way for...

Guest Author: Susan Bakker, LMSW, Psychotherapist. These days, whether I’m on a trail in the woods or reveling in the dramatic views of the Great Lakes, I have always found nature feeds my soul and gives me a greater sense of well-being. But is there evidence, beyond the intuitive, that time spent in natural surroundings supports mental health and improves mental illness?

Clay Bowers uses his years of experience foraging and hunting to help sustain himself and his family. He also founded Nomi Forager, where he works to educate others and spread the good word about nature's bounty. We sat down with Clay to learn more about his foraging skills and harvesting in Michigan's natural spaces.

The Peninsulas North team has been as busy as Sturgeon River beavers since opening in the spring of 2018. The latest Peninsulas shop offers the same high-quality, Michigan-inspired gifts, apparel...

Mandy McGovern is a food blogger, photographer and cookbook author. She’s also a chef/baker extraordinaire and a Michigander to boot. Most importantly, she is the author of a Peninsulas perennial favorite cookbook, My Little Michigan Kitchen, as well as the blog Kitchen Joy. I spoke with Mandy to learn about her inspirations and hear her story. Read on for the full interview as well as her delicious strawberry shortcake recipe.

S’mores are one of the best ways to bring a little something extra to a night around the campfire. And while the classic is great, sometimes it’s more fun to...

Harwood Gold has been making maple syrup in Michigan since 1898. Amber Parsons is the 5th generation to run the family business over and expand it to what it is today. Maple Syrup season is a very special time. Lots of laughter and an ease about life. The whole process is very nostalgic."