Photo by John Robert Williams

Every downtown is unique and has its own flair. Some are cute, quiet and quaint, while others may be more sophisticated and bustling. Either way, the majority of restaurants and shops in the downtowns are small businesses, owned and operated by sometimes second, third or even fourth generation family members; sometimes owned by someone who has a passion for food or a certain product who decided to just “go for it.” These people have a strong entrepreneurial spirit, the same spirit out great country was founded on. Their only hope is for you to visit so they can help you find exactly what you are looking for...or perhaps something you never expected.

The experiences you will have in the Downtowns of Northern Michigan will be remembered by thier friendliness, great service and the business owners’ desire to see you return.

Did you know that for every $100 you spend at a locally owned business, nearly $75 of it goes right back into the local and state economies? Only about $15 stays in the local economy when spent at a large national chain.* In times when our Michigan economy is struggling so, it is very important that we, the consumer, support small business as often as we can to keep that money in our state and in our town.

Stroll Magazine is intended to encourage you and everyone you know to shop, eat and support downtowns all across Michigan. The list to the left will be expanding and changing weekly, so make this site one of your favorites and check back often to see what’s new!

*According to a Maine study as cited on www.baybucks.org