Thunder Bay Resort

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Thunder Bay Resort can be the highlight of your Sunrise Side Wine and Hops Trail tour.  The Resort’s award wining “Elk Viewing, Carriage/Sleigh Ride, Gourmet Dinner and Wine Tasting” is like stepping back in time to the mid 1800s.  It’s literally “over the river and through the woods” aboard carriages or sleighs drawn by massive teams of Percheron and Belgian draft horses to the Elk preserve.  You’re guaranteed a close up look at herds of majestic Elk.  Bulls with massive antlers, cows and newborn calves roam the beautifully wooded property.  Every season is different and the dinner rides are offered in summer, fall and winter.
Then it’s on the rustic Elk Antler Log Cabin – beautifully decorated with antiques and trophies.  Warm yourself by the fireplace and savor the delicious aromas put forth by the twin antique wood cook stoves as “culinary artist” Jan Matthias prepares your 5 course gourmet dinner in full view of all the guests.  Throughout dinner you’ll sample 5 to 7 wines from Stoney Acres Winery.  As dessert is served Jan provides a humorous monolog about how the event has evolved, the Elk, the cabin and grandchildren.  Then it’s back aboard the carriage/sleigh for a quick return to civilization.

Advance reservations are required and the event may be done as a 4 hour stopover from $86 pp or as part of a package that includes lodging and breakfast from $159 pp for double occupancy and from $125 for quad occupancy.  The Resort features large suites, villas and chalets – perfect for family groups or several couples sharing a unit.  Golf can be added for those who play, and other nearby courses can be included in a multi-day package.

The Elk Viewing Dinner is also featured as part of special events like Murder Mystery Weekends, Scrapbooking and Quilting Retreats, Group Tours, Destination Weddings and re-unions, Christmas parties, or New Year’s Eve, Superbowl and St. Patrick’s Day parties that also include live entertainment.

On the 4th of July weekend – Thunder Bay Resort offers a “Wine, Hops and Food Festival” featuring comedian and singer Mike Ridley with local food specialties, craft brews and Michigan wines.

Brush Creek Mill

121 North State Street, Hillman
(989) 742-2527 or (989) 742-3759

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Brush Creek Mill was constructed on a site where previous mills once stood. Built on the banks of the Thunder Bay River, it was named for Brush Creek, which meets the river, flowing from Atlanta to Alpena. The mill demonstrates the power of moving water with a 22’ stainless steel water wheel, capable of grinding corn and wheat. The mill features a museum, meeting room/classroom and gift store featuring handmade crafts made by local artists and crafters. The mill is open Memorial Day through mid-October. The tour includes a tour of the mill and museum, demonstration of the water wheel and visit to the gift store.

Lachine

Burrone Family Vineyard & Winery

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