With the cost of just about everything going up, including gas, even a simple road trip to explore Michigan can feel like a splurge.

But you might be surprised by just how many Michigan destinations you can visit with only one tank of gas, which is good news since these next couple of weeks are the time to see the state’s prime fall colors.

Today, The ’Gander’s Chaunie Brusie shares 15 Michigan destinations you can explore on a tank of gas or less, proving you don’t have to spend too much to make some fall memories.

Plus: Our Odds and Ends this week includes a site for food recipes without the clutter.

Former inmate sues MDOC, alleges guard recorded her giving birth (WILX): The Michigan Department of Corrections is facing a federal lawsuit alleging male prison guards watched and recorded a former inmate giving birth in a hospital delivery room using their body cameras. The lawsuit also alleges prison officials threatened the woman’s mother with additional prison time for trying to photograph her newborn grandson.

Chinese national accused of nationwide fraud scheme arrested in Allegan County (FOX 17): An Allegan County investigation has led to the arrest of a 24-year-old man suspected of participating in more than $1 million in fraudulent gold and cash pickups nationwide, including a scam that cost an elderly resident nearly $500,000. Deputies say the Chinese national was arrested while attempting to collect another $60,000 from the victim.

Wildfires burn in UP (CBS News): Two wildfires in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula are sending smoke toward Marquette and nearby communities. Officials issued air quality alerts across five counties and warned residents to prepare for possible evacuations. Cooler temperatures and higher humidity have helped crews contain 20% of the Ridge Fire and 25% of the Craig Lake Fire, though both remain active.

(Dave Hoefler/Unsplash)

By Chaunie Brusie

Last night, as I pulled into Kroger to get gas, my teenage daughter excitedly pointed out that the gas station across the street had gas for three cents cheaper. I did some quick calculations in my head and realized that, thanks to my Kroger points, I’d end up saving nearly 20 cents a gallon by staying put. Kroger for the win! 

The gas pump calculation over a few cents is the reality for many of us right now, but the good news is that if you are craving last-minute fall adventures in Michigan, this is the state to make that happen. We calculated 15 destinations to enjoy across the state, using a central Michigan starting point that will only cost you approximately one tank of gas. Road snacks are extra, of course—pass the Michigan licorice! 

Random tidbits worth clicking on…

See recipes without the clutter with this site. (justtherecipe.com/Screenshot)

🥣 Ever looked up a recipe for that night’s dinner, only to be met with a novel before the actual recipe even starts? Then this site is for you! Just the recipe gets rid of the bloat and goes straight to the ingredients and the steps.

🌧️ We’ve been hearing a lot about El Niño on the news this fall, but what does it actually mean for our weather in Michigan? A Michigan State University specialist explains.

Do you have a cool picture, observation, or comment you’d like to share? Send it here.

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 a feature story from Chaunie Brusie. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.

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