A couple of weeks ago we spent 8 days in Michigan. Celebrating the Fourth of July with friends in Northern Michigan and road tripping around the adorable lake towns before ending our trip in the Detroit area. Dave was born, raised and went to school in Michigan. All of his family still lives in various cities around the state so we frequent often. Before we got married I had actually never even been to Michigan. It is now one of my favorite summer destinations! The numerous lakes, charming towns that sit right on the water, boats, sunshine, bbq’s – it is the quintessential summer vacation spot. Lucky for us, it is a quick drive for places that feel like miles and miles away from our urban city life.

The west side of the state sits on Lake Michigan and there are a ton of adorable towns just an hour or so away from the city (New Buffalo being one of our favorites!). For this particular trip we drove 6 hours to Walloon Lake where we celebrated the 4th. Walloon Lake, Bay Harbor and Lake Charlevoix are three of my favorite spots in this area. I love to walk around the adorable little streets, pop into stores, grab lunch on the water or if you’re lucky, have the opportunity to enjoy the day on a boat. It is such a charming area that if you have the opportunity you must visit.

After spending three days on Walloon Lake we drove to Crystal Lake. Crystal Lake is a beautiful little lake right off of Lake Michigan just south of Traverse City. Between Crystal Lake and Lake Michigan sits an adorable little town called Frankfort. You can actually sail to Frankfort from Chicago, stopping at port cities along the Michigan side of Lake Michigan (too bad I have terrible sea sickness otherwise doesn’t that sound fun?!). The photos above were taken at the Frankfort Lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in 1912 and is now a historic monument in Michigan. It sits on the prettiest beach and is such a landmark of the adorable town. We went there in the morning for donuts at Crescent Bakery (seen here) and a walk along the water.

If you have the opportunity to visit this area I highly recommend making the hour to Glen Arbor, Leland, Sutton’s Bay and onto Traverse City. It is almost a perfect loop from Frankfort and you stop at all of my favorite little towns! There are wineries open in the summer, cider and donut stands in the fall and the prettiest streets to roam around. A lot of you asked for recommendations on where to stop and this is it! Northern Michigan is definitely a drive from the city but so incredibly worth it.

I can’t help but gravitate towards red, white and blue in the summertime. Especially in Michigan where you’re constantly enjoying the great outdoors and surrounded by the beauty of rolling hills and fresh water. I have been wearing this maxi dress (only $29) non-stop all summer. It is the most flattering length and so lightweight. I had to match Charlie and bought him this adorable gingham set which makes him look like a little man. I can’t believe how big he is getting – he wants to hug me all the time, is making dinosaur noises, laughs at himself and is just the most smiley baby. Webster is our little companion and pretty much goes everywhere with us and I know these photos are something I will treasure forever.

Old Navy is currently having a huge online sale! Use code MORE for 25% off any amount OR 30% off $75+ OR 40% off $100+! I’m eyeing this, these, this and this.

What I’m wearing: Janessa Leone Hat  //  Karen Walker Sunglasses  //  Old Navy Maxi Dress  //  Joie Sandals  //  Charlie’s 2 Piece Gingham Outfit

In collaboration with Old Navy.