Reasons to Make Curtis, Michigan Your Base Camp For Summer Vacation

I might be a little biased because I live here, but if I were you I would seriously consider making Curtis your base camp for your Upper Peninsula summer vacation. Now, I know that’s a bold and a presumptuous statement, but I have my reasons. And since it’s not in my DNA to intentionally steer anyone wrong (first of all because what goes around comes around, secondly, see the first one again) if you just trust me for a few minutes here and read through my reasons you will see that not only do I bring up some valid points but geographically and logically it all comes together. Let’s get started:

First of all, the saying “It’ll never hurt us to come to Curtis” rings true on so many levels. Did you know Curtis Michigan is surrounded by the largest lake complex in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula? That means you have your choice of 3 superb lakes, South Manistique Lake which is also called Whitefish Lake, Big Manistique Lake, or North Manistique Lake which is also called Round Lake to go boating, fishing, or swimming in. Rent a boat from The Fish And Hunt Shop in Curtis and they’ll set you up with a fishing boat or rent a pontoon for fun for the whole family.

The Fish and Hunt Shop located in downtown Curtis, Michigan. They offer rentals, gear, a gift shop, and more!
Renting a pontoon boat for the day or weekend is a great way to relax in the outdoors!
There are lots of great fishing opportunities in and around Curtis.

Secondly, did you know that Curtis is home to the Erickson Center For the Arts and The Pine Performance Center? We are so fortunate to have this organization in our beautiful little town. There are events all summer long ranging from concerts in the outdoor band shelter, live performances and plays, art classes, festivals, exhibits, dinner theaters, historical presentations, and even events for the kids. I know I’m leaving some stuff out (not intentionally) but honestly, there’s SO MUCH going on just within these centers it could keep you busy all week if you didn’t want to leave town.

The Erickson Center for the Arts has a main building that includes a gallery, ongoing exhibits, rental space for events, and classrooms for art classes. The Pine Performance Center is a state-of-the-art theater with seating for 160.
The Accidentals performance at The Pine Performance Center.
Every Wednesday in the summer months is the ECA’s Music in the Park. Bring some chairs, drinks, snacks, and enjoy the ambiance.
The Pigeon Creek Shakespeare Company performs “Midsummer Madness” on stage at The Pine.
Artist Bram Bevins teaches a painting class.

Third, are you aware that Curtis is only about an hour or so from the following destinations: Tahquamenon Falls, Mackinac Island, Pictured Rocks, Kitch-Iti-Tipi Springs (Big Springs), Seney National Wildlife Refuge, Soo Locks, Grand Marais, Crisp Point Lighthouse, Cut River Bridge? This is ideal for people who want to go see something different every single day of their vacation. You’ll never be bored with all of these places to visit. And at the end of the day, you can come back to Curtis, your base camp to chill.

Tahquamenon Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Michigan.
Mackinac Island has something to offer everyone from golf courses to fine dining to gift shops to history tours.
Grand Marais holds a special place in my heart. I love this little town as much as I love Curtis.
The Cut River Bridge is easy to miss, but well worth the stop.

Fourth, if it’s the availability of restaurants or groceries you’re concerned with, we’ve got it going on here too. We will give you a list of all the dining in the area plus the links for each restaurant. 

Delicious homemade crepes is a special at the Helmer House just a few miles outside of Curtis.
At Chamberlin’s Ole Forest Inn you can enjoy a drink on the covered porch, take a walk down to the waters of Big Manistique, and enjoy a fine dining experience.
Friday Night Fish Fry is a must in Curtis. Enjoy a basket of fish and chips and challenge your friends to a game or two of cornhole at the Tally Ho Underground Bar and Grill.

Fifth, there’s lots of quaint shopping to do in Curtis. Gift shops and unique shopping experiences are tucked into areas like ice cream shops, bait shops, convenience stores, and restaurants to name a few.

You will find gift shops tucked in many of the area businesses.
Get a little shopping done after your ice cream cone at Goodale’s Sweet Spot.

The sixth and final reason to make Curtis your base camp for your summer vacation is your stay at Hideaway Tiny Cabin just a few miles east of Curtis where you can experience beauty and solitude in a tiny cabin on a private 8-acre homestead among wildflowers and wilderness. Make your reservation today. Adventure awaits.

Enjoy the area while staying in your very own tiny cabin!

2 responses to “Reasons to Make Curtis, Michigan Your Base Camp For Summer Vacation”

  1. A great, quiet place to relax and rest after a long day of fishing on South Manistique Laie. The walleye were great.

    • Don and I are so happy that you enjoyed your stay! We love being able to share our neck of the woods with others.