Michigan’s Great Lakes Bay Region is just a hop across the border from southwestern Ontario. It’s also a great getaway option for couples and families, says Annette Rummel, President & CEO, Go Great Lakes Bay.

1. It’s time for a geography lesson. Where is the Great Lakes Bay Region?

Rummel: We are in Michigan, about a 1.5 hour drive west of Sarnia, ON (take US69 to I-75 North). We’re just over a four-hour drive from Toronto. Great Lakes Bay Region includes the communities of Frankenmuth, Birch Run, Saginaw, Bay City, Midland and Chesaning.

Fireworks explode in a glorious display over the Saginaw River at Bay City Michigan’s annual fireworks show.

2. How many Canadian visitors does the Great Lakes Bay Region welcome each year?

Rummel: We welcome hundreds of thousands of Canadian visitors annually. They enjoy shopping in Birch Run and visiting Frankenmuth for its festivals and events (and eating chicken). There’s Christmas shopping at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, OHL hockey games in Saginaw, our outstanding golf product (at a reasonable price), Bay City’s access to the Saginaw Bay and Lake Huron fishing (especially for walleye), and the arts and culture of Midland.

Main Street, Frankenmuth.

3. What’s a perfect day or two in the Great Lakes Bay Region for a first-time visitor?

Rummel: Participating in the above-mentioned activities! These highlights are the favourites of our Canadian guests.

4. What sort of travellers are drawn to the Great Lakes Bay Region?

Rummel: Canadian visitors who enjoy shopping, good food and adult beverages at a great price, and who enjoy family fun entertainment. We often receive comments that the people who live in the Great Lakes Bay Region are truly friendly and enjoy meeting our Canadian visitors.

5. What’s the one thing you want Canadian travel agents to know about the Great Lakes Bay Region?

Rummel: We are easily accessible and very affordable with quality hotels, golf, attractions and dining. We provide year-round activities and events to enjoy.