Originally from down state, but living in D.C. for the last 12 years, I found myself coming to Harbor Springs every summer to visit friends. Year after year, I couldn't wait for August to come around so I could head up north for a week of hanging out on the deck, getting on the boat, running the trails, and laying out on the beach.
I've lived out west and on the east coast, and while there are special places all over this country, nothing really compares to northern Michigan. The biggest draw for me by far is the unspoiled beautifully blue fresh water lakes in the area. But the uncrowded, unspoiled charm of the area, and the variety of ways to escape the responsibilities of the real word is what I think makes this area more special than anywhere else.
No doubt, the Petoskey state beach is my favorite, but bike riding the Little Traverse Wheelway is becoming a close second favorite thing to do. We just bought a paddle board, and we love to ski. Harbor Springs and Petoskey are the coolest towns. But sitting by the fireplace while it's quietly snowing outside and doing nothing is probably the best way to relax around here.