Going on a Weekend Getaway in Tawas, MI

There are times when the daily grind feels like it’s closing in, and I know I need a break before burnout sneaks in. Not a big trip. Just something simple, quiet, and soul-soothing. That’s when I started seeking out small-town escapes, places where I could reset without the pressure to “do it all.” Tawas, Michigan was one of those places that ended up surprising me in the best way.

Photo: Chrystal Mahan

The first time I visited Tawas, I was young and didn’t know what to expect, just a few peaceful days by the lake. But what I found was something richer, a place full of memories to continue to visit. Now, it’s about mornings with coffee and the soft sound of waves, evenings full of golden light and little shops that made me feel like I had stepped into a slower, sweeter version of life. That trip stayed with me long after I returned home.

Tawas has a quiet kind of magic. It doesn’t try too hard, and maybe that’s why it works. Whether I’m walking the beach, journaling in a cozy cabin, or chatting with friendly locals at a corner café, something about this place helps me feel more like myself. It’s not just a getaway; it’s a reset button I didn’t know I needed.

If you’re longing for a weekend that feels like a deep breath, let me show you around Tawas. I’ll share my favorite stops, little discoveries, and simple moments that turned this lakeside town into one of my most beloved retreats.

This is a photo from the dock of one of my favorite places here. Although I miss my home state of Oklahoma, I have found some peace in the beauty that my current state has to offer; like all four seasons.

As a young girl, we would travel back to Michigan for summer vacations and every year my mother, grandmother, aunts and a few cousins would make the drive up north to this quaint little coastal town. I have fond memories of this place and get all choked up every time I visit. One of the first getaways the husband and I went on was to Tawas. Since then we’ve made a lot of new memories.

This photo was taken at the very end of summer last year. Me, my mother, the husband, and kiddo all went up there for a day trip. The good thing is, it’s not very far, about an hour and half drive. Easy to do in a day. I do love some other places in Michigan, but this one is always going to be in my heart. It’s my happy place.

The husband is graduating tonight. He’ll finally receive is Associates in Respiratory Therapy. Then, we’ll have dinner at his favorite restaurant. Tomorrow morning he and I are hitting the road for a little trip to Tawas. It will be our first trip this year. We haven’t had a little getaway since our trip last fall to Niagara Falls. (are you seeing the water theme with me?)

This is his graduation present. It’s also time for us to get away and recharge our batteries.

It is also a work trip. I’ll be working on some restaurant reviews and travel pieces. I’m also covering the news event for the local ice cream restaurant. I can’t wait to get there tomorrow morning. I’ll be talking about it here, but its a new piece for a couple of my news outlets.  I’m also hoping it will give us some time to work on the fiction novel we’ve partnered for.

Monday I am working my first real shift for my new gig. I’m excited to tell you about that as well, but the NDA prevents me from doing so right now. But, launch is Monday so I can spill some beans then.

My life has been struck by some bad news this week as well. It’s a hard day for me today. But, I am trying to push forward and keep going.

This getaway is just what I needed.

A Weekend That Stays With You

Tawas may not have the flash of a major tourist destination, but that is exactly what makes it special. It offers a kind of peace that feels increasingly rare, simple pleasures like the sound of water lapping at the shore, a morning walk through the state park, or an afternoon browsing local shops filled with handmade charm.

Each time I visit, I find something new to appreciate. Maybe it is a hidden path I didn’t notice before, a local artist whose work speaks to me, or a café that serves the coziest cup of tea. Tawas gives you space to slow down, breathe deeper, and truly connect with your surroundings and yourself.

If you have been craving a break that feels restorative rather than exhausting, I cannot recommend Tawas enough. It is the kind of place that welcomes you as you are and gently reminds you of what matters most.