Carefree Travel Guide 2026

Picture Perfect

We know that West Michigan is a pretty special place. And, guessing by the enthusiasm for our annual photo contest, so do you! There are so many beautiful places and breathtaking images, it’s really hard to pick the best. We love all the entries, and hope many of you will get in on the fun. The official categories may change each year, but the quality of the pictures you send in just gets better and better! And everyone can vote for their favorite with the Public Vote. Oh, and did we mention there are prizes? We’d love to see your favorite people, places, and hidden gems. Stay tuned for more on our contest, and all the things you love about West Michigan, by “liking” us on Facebook at West Michigan and submit your photos in July 2026.

Urban Adventures Photographer: Gene Paskiewicz

Lakeshore Life Photographer: Brian DeCenzo

Seasons of Michigan Photographer: Morgan Duram

Tee Off in Northern Michigan: The A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort Experience

Wild & Free Photographer: Carson Wilder Just up the road, overlooking Lake Michigan, is Antrim Dells , rated 4 ½ stars by Golf Digest and former host to the Michigan Amateur. It has undergone major tree removal, and Harry Bowers is building a number of new tees. Charlevoix Country Club , their 4th course, rated 4 stars by Golf Digest, is well-manicured with a mix of open and tree lined holes. In addition to great golf, A-Ga-Ming has excellent accommodations overlooking Torch Lake and on the Sundance course. Public Vote Photographer: Molly Pate Nearby resort towns include Bellaire, Charlevoix, Elk Rapids, and Traverse City. They all offer dining, shopping, wineries, distilleries, and breweries, including Shorts Brewery. They are surrounded by the world-famous Antrim County Chain of Lakes, where your group or family will find unlimited fun in the sun. Congratulations to the winners of the 2025 West Michigan Photo Contest, who are featured on this page! Join the fun and share your own views of West Michigan in this year’s photo contest: Follow us on Facebook at West Michigan . A-Ga-Ming Golf Resort and its four championship courses is one of the finest resorts in the Midwest. With courses and lodging overlooking Torch Lake & Lake Michigan, your experience will be memorable. Sundance , “Course of the Year” for the entire Midwest, a links-style gem, leads the lineup. Its sister course, The Torch , with breathtaking views of the world’s third most beautiful lake, underwent a large tree removal program and built several new and enlarged tees.

West Michigan Tourist Association | WMTA.org

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