Grand Rapids, a booming city on the banks of the Grand River, has become a thriving center for education, medicine, culture, and the arts. As Michigan’s second largest city, it offers a treasure trove of attractions. With 100 Things to Do in Grand Rapids Before You Die, you’ll see firsthand why this city is always topping the lists of the best places to visit. Residents and visitors alike will enjoy the picturesque Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park. Where else will you find a twenty-four foot bronze horse first imagined by Leonardo DaVinci? Sports fans are in luck whether you want to participate in hiking and golf or cheer on the Grand Rapids Griffins hockey team at the Van Andel Arena. The vibrant downtown area, with its sweeping river views, plays host to fabulous festivals throughout the year, including ArtPrize. Also included are recommendations and insider’s tips for the best dining, live theater at the Civic, and visiting the prized carousel at the Public Museum. Authors and area residents Norma Lewis and Christine Nyholm are excited to turn their love of the city into an invitation to a place that is not to be missed. With this indispensable guide, they’ll help you discover the very best of the best.

From a hip urban downtown overflowing with arts and culture, to exciting activities and must-visit spots surrounding the city’s core, the Toledo region is a wonderful metropolis waiting to be discovered. Near western Lake Erie’s Maumee Bay, you’ll find a world-class art museum and zoo, a thriving arts scene, and a remarkable choice of outdoor activities. And with 100 Things to Do in Toledo Before You Die as your guide, you’ll discover all the exciting places and events that make Toledo a vibrant city. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of trails in the Metroparks Toledo parks. Water sports abound, such as boating or fishing on Lake Erie or kayaking on the mighty Maumee River. Feeling festive? Mark your calendar for the many family-friendly ethnic festivals Toledo has to offer. Craving a taste of Toledo? Make reservations at the restaurants and bars included in these pages. Plus, in addition to great ideas for your next Toledo adventure, this book offers insider tips to make every experience even better. Whether you’re new to the Glass City and interested in becoming a certified Toledoan or just exploring how to spend your next Saturday afternoon around town, this book is for you! Local author and master storyteller Tedd Long’s unique appreciation for the city comes through on every page, and even longtime residents will find something new to do among his suggestions.

Known as home to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor repeatedly earns a spot as one of the top ten places to live in the US. And its distinctive dining, colorful neighborhoods, and year-round festivals make it a top destination for visitors, too. Thumb through the pages of 100 Things to Do in Ann Arbor Before You Die to make the most of the countless activities, sites, and unique corners of “A-squared.” You’ll find insider tips, curated itineraries, and hidden gems to delight natives and visitors alike. Hit the Kerrytown area to tempt your palate at the farmers market or world-famous Zingerman’s Delicatessen—a destination all its own. Come back every season to sample the festivals: movies in spring, music and art in summer, and don’t forget football in the fall! The Big House is home to the Michigan Wolverines and the nation’s largest stadium. From unexpected cuisine like a Himalayan café to underground cocktail clubs and some of the most eclectic shopping experiences, you’ll find it all through the walkable downtown and beyond. And with local author Patricia Majher at the wheel, you’re bound to find some exciting twists and turns along the way. Come find your own special reasons to love A2 and all the things to do there.

Up in the land where Paul Bunyan statues are big and the tall tales about him are even bigger, lie some of Minnesota’s most beautiful resort communities. This is the land of 10,000 lakes and truly untouched wilderness surrounding Bemidji, Cass Lake, and Blackduck, among others, otherwise known as Minnesota’s Northwoods. Though only the hearty live here year round and the winter averse just vacation here in the summer, there’s still no shortage of activities and sights to fill your itinerary, no matter the season. Whether you use this book as a bucket list, tour guide, or a cure for cabin fever, we’ve got you covered. We’ll entice you to try new outdoor activities, such as wading across the headwaters of the Mississippi, eat unusual foods, and sip flavorful beverages. You’ll also find a plethora of things to do inside on rainy days, such as exploring the US Hockey Hall of Fame Museum. Carefully crafted itineraries and seasonal—yes, there are four seasons here—activities will provide plenty of inspiration for visitors and locals alike. Local author Julie Jo Larson’s own wanderlust led her to share her penchant for her hometown with the world. Grab a friend or two, a copy of 100 Things to Do in Minnesota Northwoods Before You Die, and your sense of wonder because adventures await you in the Minnesota Northwoods.

Go, Bucks! Ohio is home to the Ohio State Buckeyes, Lake Erie views, the Ohio River, and stunning history and architecture that will leave you breathless. Ohio is filled with a plethora of scenic byways where you can road-trip from the “little smokies” in southern Ohio to the quaint towns along Lake Erie, and armed with a copy of 100 Things to Do in Ohio Before You Die, you will have all your places to stop marked and ready for a memorable trip through the Buckeye State. Did you know that in Ohio, you can stay in a cabin in the woods near Hocking Hills State Park? Visit Jungle Jim’s International Grocery Store, where you can find foodie treasures from all over the world, all in one mega location. Search for ghosts at the Ohio State Reformatory. Buy an Ohio History Connections membership where you can explore the main campus in Columbus and then branch out all over Ohio to gain access to the rich history within the borders. With this masterful guidebook in hand, author Brandy Gleason will send you to places you never knew existed with an insider perspective and her top tips. As an Ohio native, her deep love of Ohio enriches each page with details that have made her experiences something she had to write about. So, buckle up for a trip through Ohio and prepare to be amazed and create journeys that will make lifetime memories.

Cedar Rapids is the second largest city in the state of Iowa and has long been known as the City of Five Seasons . . . a place where you can experience spring, summer, fall, and winter and take the time—the fifth season—to enjoy them all. Consider 100 Things to Do in Cedar Rapids Before You Die to be your guide to soaking up all this Midwestern gem of a city has to offer any time of year. Hike to the top of Mount Trashmore to take in the best view in the city. Shop and eat your way through the NewBo City Market and the surrounding neighborhood. Immerse yourself in Czech and Slovak culture in the Czech Village. Dive into the local arts and culture scene, walking in the footsteps of famed artist Grant Wood who called Cedar Rapids home. Enjoy an outdoor concert on the banks of the Cedar River. Each item you explore on this Cedar Rapids to-do list offers a unique perspective on the city. Local writer Katie Mills Giorgio is your host for making the most of your time in Cedar Rapids, whether you are looking for tasty eats, rich creative experiences, or an opportunity to get in touch with nature. This book is filled with insider tips and more than 100 ideas to enjoy all that Cedar Rapids and the surrounding area has to offer.

Detroit enjoys a rich history, having forged the American landscape with muscle cars and Motown music. But there's more to love about Detroit than merely its history. And there's never been a better time to explore, as The D buzzes with a spirit of renewal. 100 Things to Do in Detroit Before You Die paves the way to a rediscovery of this great Midwestern city. You'll find in these pages a Detroit of immigrant chefs who draw on their native cuisines, where entrepreneurs sell jewelry made from old graffiti, and where the city's history comes to life from the seat of a kayak. You'll read about boutique hotels set within century-old architectural landmarks and their stylish cocktail bars. And since oldies really can be goodies, you'll revisit classic sights like the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Detroit Jazz Festival. Whether you've lived in Detroit all your life or you're a traveler eager to discover the city for the first time, 100 Things to Do in Detroit Before You Die will help you create--and complete-your very own Motor City bucket list.