Harry Fee bought 226 acres in 1926. He wanted to farm the land, but found that it was to hilly. So instead he turned it into a beautiful garden. He turned it over to the Michigan State University in 1945. The University has since bought adjoining land and now there are 755 acres.
In spring, the flowering trees and shrubs are gorgeous. The Rhododendrons and Azaleas put on quite a show. They have a tropics conservatory, which you may walk through. There's a pond where you can sit and watch the swans. If you're into hiking, there are, five miles of hiking trails. They also have a picnic area for outings. There's more than 6 miles of paved drives, that connects the areas of interest.
In the fall it's really pretty. When the leaves are in full color, or even after they're on the ground. It's a great drive no matter what time of year you go.
There's a visitor center and library. Where you can get all the information you will need. Hidden Lake Gardens are located in Lenawee County in the Irish Hills area on M - 50. It's a great way to spend the day.
Greenfield Village
Around Alpena, Rogers City and neighboring towns. There is so much to see. If you travel Old US 23 you will follow the shores of Lake Huron. If you enjoy sandy beaches, beautiful sunrises, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people, then this area is a must see!!
Kateri Tekakwitha, also known as, Lily of the Mohawks. Put crosses on the trees in the forest, symbolizing places to pray. This inspired Reverend Charles D. Brophy to make the 55 foot high cross. It is made from one Oregon redwood. It was put up in 1954. The bronze crucified Jesus was done by, Marshall M. Fredericks. It is seven tons of bronze and was put in place in 1959.
Whether you are a Christian or not, the sense of peace you get by just being there is great!
There was what I called "fish men" who would walk up and down the lines of cars selling smoked fish. We always got some and it was great to eat, while waiting for the ferries.
We watched them build the bridge and when it opened November 1, 1957, we couldn't wait to see it. My husband and I still cross it and camp in the beautiful UP. The Big Mac is a wonderful thing to see.
Big Mac crosses the 5 miles of the straits. Makes getting from lower to upper peninsula much nicer! It only takes minutes instead hours.
It took 42 months to build and it has two main towers that stands 552 feet above the straits. A good video for information is "Building the Mighty Mac" It's a good documentary.