Tag: Upper Thumb

The Upper Thumb of Michigan refers to the northeastern region of Michigan’s “thumb” area, part of the state’s Lower Peninsula. Bordered by Lake Huron and Saginaw Bay, the region is known for its scenic shoreline, small towns, and outdoor recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Key towns in the Upper Thumb include Caseville, Port Austin, and Bad Axe. It’s a popular destination for summer tourism, featuring attractions like the Port Austin Farmers Market, Turnip Rock, and the Caseville Cheeseburger Festival. The Upper Thumb combines natural beauty with a laid-back, rural charm, making it a favorite getaway for locals and visitors alike.

Road Trip To Texas – One Frugal Snowbird’s 3-Day Itinerary With Drury Inn & Suites

Posted on October 18, 2022November 16, 2023 by Michael Hardy

If you are retired, spend time between the south during winter and at a northern cottage or cabin each summer; you’re a snowbird. But, of course, a snowbird’s favorite activity is taking a morning coffee out by the pool while your friends up north are shoveling out from the last lake-effect snowstorm.

Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf Under New Owners

Posted on October 5, 2022November 14, 2024 by Michael Hardy

Jim and Beth Selke of Clarkston, Michigan, consulted with and guided their 25-year-old Son, Justin Selke, into his first business venture. If the first season is any indication, this storied business was entrusted into good hands. The Selke family takes pride in taking over the reins of Sandy Dunes Adventure Golf, an iconic local mini-golf and dairy bar near Port Austin, Michigan.

A Fascinating Story of The Hitching Post Inn Elkton Mi (It Has A Twin!)

Posted on September 20, 2022March 16, 2025 by Michael Hardy

From time to time, we like to visit the Hitching Post in Elkton. It’s a great place to stop after a round of golf at Century Oaks. It’s a great place to grab a proper bar burger. It’s a fascinating old building with strange stained glass in many windows. I always wondered about the history of this building and what role it played in the community.

Port Austin Michigan – 3 Memorable Destinations Saved It From Decline – Art Works, A Farm Market, and Kayaking

Posted on September 16, 2022July 30, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Drive from any point south of the Thumb north toward Port Austin, Michigan, to its tip, and you will encounter small towns and villages hanging on by a thread. The town at the tip of the Thumb has taken a different approach; offering the community a destination for the entire summer season.

The Classic Point of Pines Hotel and Summer Resort in Port Austin, MI – 1898

Posted on September 10, 2022December 29, 2025 by Michael Hardy

Point of Pines Hotel and Summer Resort operated in Port Austin Michigan from 1898 until about 1935. Mary Buttars ran the resort until her death in 1911.

Caseville IGA – The Amazing Memories of Our Grandparents Time

Posted on September 2, 2022November 9, 2022 by Michael Hardy

The Caseville IGA was a landmark as a kid growing up in the Upper Thumb The IGA was the store I remember growing up. It was old, the floors creaked, it smelled funny and it was crowded in the summer. I loved it.