For an idyllic vacation that has a New England-feel without the crowds, try venturing to Northern Michigan and the picturesque city of Harbor Springs. With its small town atmosphere and ideal location on the shores of Lake Michigan, you can capture the restful vacation you have been dreaming about. So pack up the family and get ready for the beauty and ambiance that causes visitors of Northern Michigan to come back year after year.

Upon arrival in Harbor Springs, one of the first things you may notice is the historic Little Traverse Lighthouse on the Harbor Point peninsula. This lighthouse reminds one of the striking lighthouses of New England, minus the crowds and the gusting winds. As you take in the breathtaking views from the Harbor, take a stroll along the city pier for a pleasant afternoon under the warm summer sun.

Water activities are plentiful in this region since the lake is clearly the centerpiece of the splendor that drives families here in the summer. You can simply take a walk along the cool beach, dipping your toes in the water occasionally, or, if you prefer a little more excitement, get out on the water for a day of thrills and fun. The expanse that is Lake Michigan can be quite shocking at first, however once you get beyond the fact that it is much larger than you initially expected, you are ready to feel the wind in your face. Renting a motorboat or sailboat is the best way to really experience this sparkling blue lake, so venture outward for an exhilarating day.

For such a small area, downtown Harbor Springs is surprisingly bustling in the summer. There are four blocks of shops, with a large number of upscale boutiques, a couple of small town coffeehouses, numerous art galleries, and a few of the always popular fudge shops. Northern Michigan fudge shops are a staple of the area as every visitor makes a trip to their favorite one at least twice during their stay. There are also popular, must-see restaurants such as Mary Ellen's, which is a 50's-inspired soda fountain that maintains its original appearance, and Bar Harbor, which draws yachtsmen in off the lake with its world-class hamburgers.

Located a few miles away from the downtown area are both the Nubs Nob and Boyne Highlands ski resorts. The Nubs Nob recreation area offers cross-country and downhill skiing on its 246 acres. There are 43 runs to keep visitors entertained and some slopes run upwards of a mile in length. Boyne Highlands has 50 ski trails, which are serviced by 10 lifts, in addition to a terrain park and recently expanded cross-country ski trails. However, Boyne Highlands is not just a winter destination as this mountain resort offers three championship courses for summer visitors of Harbor Springs. One course that any avid golfer simply will not want to miss is the 18-hole Heather, which is considered one of the most scenic and picturesque courses in the country.

An entire vacation in Harbor Springs is easy to imagine when you consider the amazing golf courses, the beautiful weather, the shimmering lake, the bustling small town, and the surrounding large cities, such as Petoskey, that are begging for exploration. For the most convenience during your stay, try a Harbor Springs vacation rental. Your vacation home allows you easy access to Lake Michigan while also placing the attractions of this charming small town within walking distance. Spend a day in Petoskey searching for a souvenir state stone, then return to your vacation rental and watch the sun set over the bay from the privacy of your patio. This is your vacation, so experience all the beauty this area has to offer at your own pace and with all the comforts of home at your fingertips.