Back in the USA and Down Lake Michigan

We quickly checked into customs at Drummond Island, MI and proceeded to DeTour Village Marina. The next day we crossed to Machinac City, MI and enjoyed our walk around one of our favorite towns. We had dinner at Audie's, a lodge-themed restaurant that we greatly enjoyed on our previous trip in 2014.

With Lake Michigan wind and waves favorable, we started down the 300 mile journey ending in Chicago, IL.  The towns along the east coast of Lake Michigan are each unique and enjoyable to visit. 

First stop is Charlevoix, MI, home of the mushroom houses designed by famed architect Earl Young. Also, many homes put out a welcome to tourists with their colorful landscaping.

Next stop, Leland, MI, an historic Fishtown.  The heart of the commercial fishing village is still active shanties, smokehouses, docks, fish tugs and charter boats - designated an historic site. The harbor, where we stayed, is a beautiful new marina, meticulously cleaned and maintained.  

On to Pentwater, MI and meeting a Great Loop kayaker, Matthew Pierce.  Matt has his gear stored in the red caboose.  Unfortunately, not many miles down the Lake waves come and his caboose gets water-logged. Matt is currently making plans to resume his loop next summer with new gear.  

Flag ceremony.  Matt did not have an AGLCA flag, so we presented him with ours.  Anyone doing the loop in a kayak needs a AGLCA flag for sure.  Other Loopers will gladly lend a hand.

On our previous loop we thoroughly enjoyed downtown Chicago and especially the Architectural Boat Tour.  The waterway tour of more than 50  buildings is led by volunteer tour guides, called docents. The second time around was just as enjoyable.

The skyline from Navy Pier.

According to the 2014 tour docent, Marilyn Monroe and husband Joe DiMaggio would meet at the Chicago Palmer House because it was half-way between New York City (Yankees) and Hollywood (movies).  We had to go and see this historic hotel on this trip through Chicago.  We learned some additional history of the hotel:  by the turn of the 20th century, the Palmer House had become Chicago's liveliest social center, hosting a long list of prominent figures - including U.S. presidents to Charles Dickens to Oscar Wilde.  The Golden Empire Dining Room hosted legendary entertainers, including, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Liberace.  

Even the elevator doors received special decorations.

Next, from extravagance to rust.