Why Lake Life is the Best Life
There’s something about a lake in summer that calls you back again and again. Maybe it’s the way the sun glimmers on the water, the cool splash on your skin, or the calm that sets in as soon as you pull into a sleepy lake town. If you’ve ever spent a summer day near Lake Michigan or any of the Great Lakes, you already know, lake life just hits different.
Where I Call Home
I live a short bike ride away from the shores of Lake Michigan, and trust me when I say this: it never gets old. From lounging at the beach to evening walks catching the glow of the sunset along the board walk, lake days are our favorite days. And it's not just the water, it’s the pace, the people, the pure joy of being surrounded by sand dunes, sailboats, and time that feels a little slower.
That spirit inspires so much of what I create, artwork that celebrates the places we love, and the memories we make there.
Midwest Lakes Worth the Trip
If you’re planning a getaway or dreaming of your next day trip, here are a few Midwest lake destinations I personally love (and that have inspired several of my state and town pieces):
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Grand Haven, MI – With a musical fountain, iconic red lighthouse, and boardwalk lined with shops and ice cream stands, this town is summer vacation wrapped in charm.
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Saugatuck & Douglas, MI – A perfect pairing for art lovers and beachgoers. Explore galleries, ride the chain ferry, and unwind at Oval Beach.
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Traverse City, MI – Cherry festivals, clear water, and rolling vineyards. A true four-season destination that shines in the summer.
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Lake Geneva, WI – Historic estates, scenic lake cruises, and a walkable shore path with plenty of spots to dip your toes in.
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Door County, WI – A coastal peninsula with more than 300 miles of shoreline, cherry orchards, lighthouses, and charming small towns to enjoy a fish boil like in Fish Creek and Ephraim.
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Geneva Lake, OH – Wine trails meet waterfront in this laid-back lakeside getaway.
- Put-in-Bay, OH – This little island town is full of charm, color, and unexpected history. Ride the ferry over, rent a golf cart, and explore limestone cliffs, lighthouses, and live music by the water.
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Okoboji, IA – A hidden gem with crystal-clear waters, family fun, plenty of nostalgia, and a big summer heart.
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Gull Lake, MN – Tucked in the Brainerd Lakes area, this spot is perfect for boating, fishing, and resort life, think cozy cabins, loons calling, and summer bonfires.
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Lake Minnetonka, MN – Just west of the Twin Cities, it blends luxury and lake vibes. Dine lakeside, shop small towns like Excelsior, or cruise on a historic steamboat.
What Makes Lake Life So Special?
It’s not just the views, it’s the rituals. Morning coffee on the dock or porch. Barefoot dinners on the deck or picnics in the yard. Paddleboards and pontoon rides. Sunset bonfires and sticky fingers from too many s’mores.
Lake life invites us to just be, to connect with the season, each other, and the simple joys that often get lost in the rush of everyday.
Want to bring a little lake life into your home?
Check out my town and lake themed artwork, coastal tea towels, and entertaining pieces that help you celebrate your favorite lake days every day of the year.
Right click on the image below to save and print so you can plan your next trip to the lake!
