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Is the open road calling out to you? January 31st is National Plan Your Vacation Day – a great reason to start looking into your next Gaylord getaway!

Offering four seasons of Pure Michigan enjoyment, the Gaylord area is the ultimate travel destination.  Our endless miles of forested trails and tranquil inland lakes beckon to nature lovers and those looking for solitude. After a blissful day discovering our outdoor wonders, treat yourself to some of the tastiest dining in the north, shop our unique downtown, then enjoy a relaxing evening at one of our lodging properties, where your satisfaction always comes first. Planning your next trip is as easy as 1 – 2 – 3 and it all starts at gaylordmichigan.net.      

1 – Select your season.  Will you be squeezing in an extra week of winter adventures this year?  Visit our Winter pages to learn more about downhill or cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and even winter rafting!  Our events calendar is filled with sleigh rides, guided snowshoe hikes where you walk, wine and dine, and even dog sled rides.  Dreaming of warmer days?  Check out the best ways to take advantage of our vast woods and water in Get Outdoors.  Take the road less traveled and visit the Pigeon River Country State Forest – over 114,000 acres of state land with plenty of room to roam (even if you’re an elk – find the herd there!).  From fishing and kayaking to hiking and biking, you’ll find new ways to explore and appreciate the heart of northern Michigan. 

2 – While you may be determined to soak up every second you have outside, you’ll also need to fill your stomach and take a few mementos back home with you! Our Alpine Village caters to those in search of unique dining and shopping opportunities, and you’ll find both in our quaint downtown.  With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating during every season, along with convenient carry out, Gaylord’s assortment of restaurants will keep you refueled and satisfied.  Our friendly stores are stocked with specialty items, made in Michigan wares and every keepsake you can imagine. 

3 – Before your excursion to our bustling community, browse through our magazine-style Visitor’s Guide to learn about all things Gaylord. From where to find our elusive elk to the best place to pick blueberries, you’ll find insider tips to experience all our community has to offer.  2023 Visitor Guides are hot off the press and filled with photos, trail maps and lodging information so you can find the best place to rest your head after a day of exploring.  Request your free Visitor’s Guide, along with lake and trail brochures, snowmobile and snowshoe maps, Northern Michigan Golfer and more here.  

While National Plan Your Vacation Day is a great incentive to start dreaming of your next getaway, the Gaylord Area Tourism Bureau is always here for you.  If our website doesn’t answer your questions or thirst for more up north knowledge, feel free to call our Visitor Center Specialists at 800-345-8621.  

Happy planning and we hope to see you soon!