Patio season is officially back.

And from rooftop cocktails in Detroit to waterfront seafood spots along the lake, Michigan is packed with restaurants where we can make the most out of our long summer days.

Today, The ‘Gander’s Britteny Dee is bringing you a whopping 16 of the best patio restaurants across Michigan for your next sunny-day meal.

Plus: The rumors are true. Ferry prices to Mackinac Island did increase for the 2026-2027 season. We have the rundown on what to expect.

Michigan limits buck hunting (The Detroit News): Michigan hunters in the Lower Peninsula will be limited to harvesting one buck starting in 2027 under new rules approved by the Michigan Natural Resources Commission, part of an effort to reduce the state’s growing deer population.

Northern MI federal judge gets probation for drunken crash (MLive): Federal Judge Thomas L. Ludington was sentenced to six months of probation after pleading no contest to drunken driving following a crash in northern Michigan last fall in which his blood-alcohol level was recorded at more than three times the legal limit. A judicial misconduct complaint tied to the incident remains under review.

SE Michigan nurses allege toxic workplace at county health department (Bridge Michigan): A state labor board is reviewing a workplace complaint against the St. Clair County Health Department tied to allegations that Medical Director Dr. Remington Nevin retaliated against a nurse and fostered a toxic work environment. Nevin has previously come under scrutiny for his anti-vaccine stance.

Discover Michigan’s best patios for warm-weather dining, from waterfront retreats to rooftop lounges to cozy garden escapes. (Blue Water)

By Britteny Dee

For Michiganders who have been cooped up indoors for months to avoid the cold, the arrival of warmer weather primarily means one thing: al fresco dining. 

Fortunately, Michigan has no shortage of incredible patios. Across the state, you’ll find waterfront restaurants where boats drift by as you eat, rooftop bars with sweeping city views, hidden garden patios tucked into unexpected places, and lively brewery biergartens made for long summer nights. 

But it’s not just about the outdoor spaces at these Michigan restaurants. The food is just as memorable as the scenery, with menus showcasing everything from fresh seafood and handmade pasta to deep-dish pizza and globally inspired dishes.

Whether you’re planning a date night, brunch with friends, or a casual weekend dinner, these Michigan restaurants offer some of the best patio dining experiences in the state.

Ferries run multiple times per day, carrying visitors from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island. (Selena Parker/Unsplash)

By Chaunie Brusie

If you ask me what my favorite place in Michigan is, the small beach town of Lexington would be a strong contender, but when it comes right down to it, the real Michigan love of my life will always be Mackinac Island.

I don’t know if it’s the rugged beauty of the island, the special set-apart-from-civilization feel it contains, or the peace that a space without cars carries, but there is just something so special about Mackinac. The second the island comes into sight, it changes you. I feel it instantly—there is a relaxation that settles over me that just is not something I have experienced anywhere else on the planet. Like many visitors to Mackinac Island, I always consider the ferry ride over to be part of the experience. Choosing a seat, feeling the wind whip through my hair, and catching that first glimpse of the island are all part of the fun. 

Of course, that fun does require a ferry ticket, and yes, prices have increased this year. If you will be experiencing the fun of Mackinac for the first time, here are some tips and information to keep in mind as you plan your ferry ride to the island.

Many readers know that I have a weekly newsletter on Wednesdays where I find and map out the best events going on that weekend (here’s this week’s).

But now that we’ve reached festival season, it can be hard to keep track of every event going on. That’s why earlier this week, I asked readers:

What are Michigan’s can’t-miss events this spring and summer?

Thanks to everyone who wrote in. Here are some events you recommended:

“Porch fest (June 27) in Port Austin is my can’t-miss festivity.” — Steve, Vassar

“The Dam Jam (June 26-27) at Calumets Lions park at the end of June. A weekend of good music, food, and family friendly!!” — Lee, Calumet

The Vernor’s Club sent over information for their Vernor’s 160th Anniversary celebration on June 14. 

“The City of Royal Oak for the Memorial Day Parade and the Royal Oak Community Memorial Day Pancake Breakfast (May 25). The pancake breakfast is a fundraiser for the Royal Oak Historical Museum before the parade. Thank you!” — Al, Royal Oak

“The Ada Arts Festival was a staple in Ada Village for over 20-years. Due to COVID and substantial growth and development in the Village, it went on hiatus over 6-years ago. It’s back this year (June 13) and is better than ever and looking forward to many years ahead.” — David, Ada

If you want to send me an event, it’s not too late! My inbox is always open for event recommendations throughout the year.

And if you have a question you’d like me to ask our community, send it my way. I might feature it in a future newsletter.

*Responses may be edited for conciseness or clarity.

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

Interested?

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with stories from Britteny Dee and Chaunie Brusie. It was edited by Paula Solis.

The ’Gander is free for everyone. Your support makes our work possible.