The Couture Chronicles

Although I love living in New York City, nothing compares to a Michigan summer. I honestly think it’s one of the best places to be during the warmer months—with sparkling lakes, lush nature, and endless opportunities for adventure, what’s not to love?

This past week, my roommate Eliza visited Michigan for the first time, and I couldn’t wait to show her all of my favorite spots.

We packed it all in—from the Silver Lake Sand Dunes to the charm of Mackinac Island—and every moment was perfect. We spent most of our time up at Tawas Bay on Lake Huron, my go-to summer escape. The town’s laid-back pace, paired with clear blue water and constant sunshine, was exactly the kind of reset we both needed.

Mackinac Island is truly a hidden treasure. No cars, only eight miles around, but nothing short of breathtaking. The water is so clear it looks like it belongs in the tropics, and the entire island feels like a step back in time, with preserved colonial architecture and historic homes lining the streets.

We started our day at the iconic Grand Hotel—browsed a few shops, played croquet on the lawn, and toured the stunning interior. I can’t say enough good things.

Afterward, we headed downtown for lunch. We had planned to try the famous Pink Pony, but a 2.5-hour wait had us rethinking things. We ended up at The Carriage House next to Hotel Iroquois, and it did not disappoint. Amazing food, flawless service, and an ambiance that instantly made it a new favorite.

Post-lunch was all about shopping on Main Street, followed by my favorite Mackinac tradition: biking around the island. We passed Mission Point, Arch Rock, and endless rocky beaches with that unreal clear water. It’s the one thing I always make time for when I visit, so of course I had to share it with Eliza.

By the end of the day, we were exhausted—but in the best way. Those kinds of days are my favorite.

Eliza’s first trip to Michigan was definitely a success, and I’m so glad we got to see Mackinac this summer.

Her first time out there—but definitely not the last.

Xx