By Rich Schott
Okay, let me tell you about our epic day trip to the Soo Locks with our amazing friends from Michigan! I still can't believe we managed to pack so much into one day. It was truly an unforgettable experience, and I'm so grateful to Jerry and Vivian for being the best tour guides ever!
Our adventure began early, with our first stop at the Cheboygan Dam and Lock. Now, I have to admit, I’d heard about locks before, but actually seeing one in action was something else entirely. What made it even more special was that it was a first-time experience for both Jen and me. We were like kids in a candy store, completely mesmerized by the whole process. The sheer engineering of it all was impressive, and it really sparked our curiosity for the day ahead.
After soaking in the sights at Cheboygan, our stomachs started rumbling, signaling lunchtime. So, we headed to Mackinaw City, a charming little town brimming with that vacation vibe. We grabbed a table at the Keyhole Bar & Grill, a spot Jerry and Vivian recommended. Let me tell you, the food was good. It was the perfect way to refuel before the next leg of our journey.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we set our sights on the iconic Mackinac Bridge. This bridge is seriously breathtaking. As we crossed it, the views were simply stunning. To our left, the vast expanse of Lake Michigan stretched out as far as the eye could see, its waters a beautiful shade of blue. And to our right, the equally impressive Lake Huron shimmered in the sunlight. Being suspended high above the water, with those incredible panoramas on either side, was an experience I'll never forget. It really made me appreciate the natural beauty of Michigan.
Now, before this trip, I honestly never thought visiting Sault Ste. Marie would be on Jen's and my bucket list. But hey, that's the beauty of travel, right? It takes you to unexpected places and opens your eyes to new experiences. On the way to the Soo Locks, we made a pit stop at The Antlers, a local bar known for its quirky décor. This place was definitely one-of-a-kind! The atmosphere was buzzing, and the drinks were good.
Finally, the moment we'd all been waiting for: the Soo Locks! I have to say, seeing them up close was even more fascinating than I had imagined. It's hard to describe the feeling of watching those massive ships pass through the locks, rising and falling with the 
water level. The way the locks work is truly ingenious, and it's a testament to human innovation. I was particularly captivated by the swirls in the canal, caused by the water being let in to raise the level. Watching the waterline change as the canal filled was mesmerizing. It was one of those moments where you feel a deep appreciation for the world around you. And the best part? We can now officially say we have seen all of the Great Lakes...and we saw four of them during this incredible trip to Michigan!
As the day started winding down, we hit a few more local spots. We passed by Wienerlicious, which definitely caught our eye with its, shall we say, unique name. Then, we stopped in St. Ignace for a taste of local cuisine: a venison pasty. It was hearty, flavorful, and a perfect way to experience the local food culture.
Our final stop of the day was at Thirsty's Bar & Grill in Cheboygan, a real locals' hangout. The atmosphere was laid-back and friendly, and we felt like we were getting a glimpse into the true heart of the community. Of course, we had to try the locals' favorite beer, Stroh's. It was the perfect way to cap off an amazing day.
Looking back on it all, it was such an incredible day trip. From the Cheboygan Dam and Lock to the Mackinac Bridge to the Soo Locks and all the little stops in between, every moment was filled with adventure and discovery. But most of all, it was the company that made it so special. So, thank you, to all of our Michigan friends who were part of the day, from the bottom of our hearts, for sharing your beautiful state with us and creating memories that will last a lifetime!
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