Monday, 29 August

I kept stopping along the shores of Lake Michigan.  The view wasn’t sensational, but it was compelling.  Found a Snowmobile Museum.  Interesting.  The 60’s were certainly the decade for their growth. Before then it was mostly a cottage industry.

The Mackinac Bridge is still there.  Family went over it in 1965(?).  My memory is that we camped in a park right along the onramp, which is today comprised of museums and shops.  A lot of fudge shops.  A lot.  Over the top.  It’s a large tourist area.  The Bridge museum is above a pizza restaurant.  Interestingly, when it opened in 1957 the toll charge was $3.25 for cars, $1.50 for motorcycles.  Today it’s $4 for either.  Doesn’t seem fair.  The left lane is steel decked, scary for two wheels.  Apparently, on Labor Day they let people walk across it.  I don’t know if they still offer it, but in the past scared drivers could call in advance and have someone drive their car over.  No charge.

I was going to continue driving along the coastline but I had spent too much time on the north side.  Just took the 75 south to Saginaw.  Hot and busy.  I wanted to stay in Flint to show support, but their hotels were too much $$$.  Considering the water situation, that was surprising.  Maybe all the government inspectors are driving up prices.

Ate a Michigan Pasty (meat pie).  Ugh.  Bland.  Probably should try another before passing judgement.

(Oh.  A few days ago in Minnesota I passed Welcome, MN.  They did indeed have a sign: “Welcome to WELCOME”.  Gotta love it.)