The Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan is one of the “best kept secrets” that we know of!
When searching for a business to buy, we avoided even considering Ironwood several times. Having never visited the Upper Peninsula, the depressed economic conditions, and subsequent low real estate values, seemed to make it a dismal area to make a living in. We’ve learned that it isn’t easy living in Ironwood. Most people we know just barely get by, working several jobs to make ends meet. The cost of living here is higher than in the big city; gasoline, food, water & sewer, utilities, services, products, etc., all cost more.
Unless a person has a regular reason to become acquainted with this area, you kind of forget about the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. We’d never been to the “U.P.” before buying a motel. I remember learning in grade school that Michigan was divided into 2 parts, but soon forgot, because most media bombardment and attention is always focused on the Michigan “mainland.”
That’s a shame! To us, the Ironwood area is a “hidden jewel!”
Several people have told us that the Upper Peninsula is the “closest you’ll ever be to living in Alaska, and still be in the lower 48 states!” We now believe it!
One “treasure” which we enjoy here are the 4 distinct seasons. Christmas just isn’t “right” without snow and cold weather. There are always plenty of both up here! Compared to Iowa, where we were both raised, summers here in Ironwood are cool and mild. Fall colors are always spectacular! Springtime, with all the foliage blooming and wildlife abounding, always speaks to us of the extra measure of blessings that God showers upon the U.P!
We like how the Ironwood lifestyle focuses a lot on nature. In the big city, freeway traffic reports, rush hour congestion, smog conditions, and busy lifestyles rule. Here in Ironwood, the talk is about hunting, fishing, the weather, waterfalls, hiking, and how many bears have been spotted lately! That’s an enjoyable change for us!
When friends and family visit from out of state, we show them Little Girl’s Point, Copper Peak, the many waterfalls, Hiawatha, our beautiful scenic roads, share some area history with them, and, as a special treat in the wintertime, they can go tubing, skiing, skating, and snowmobiling. They always leave very impressed, wishing they, too, could live here!
The Western Upper Peninsula has much undeveloped potential! Area natives have always known it. We, as new residents are learning to appreciate it!
We’re trying to do our part as “educators” to spread the word about this lovely area! When guests stay at our Budget Host Inn, we suggest enjoyable things to see, the best restaurants to eat at, memorable activities that will build fond memories, and try to help them want to return to the “U.P” again and again.
I’ve always admired the Branson, Missouri, area. Years ago, wise planners decided to harness the local culture and beauty of the Missouri hills. Step by step, over the years, they’ve built that area into a year-round, economic powerhouse by offering a balanced blend of commercial attractions, interesting historic activities, unique retail shops, and friendly “down-home” hospitality!
The Western Upper Peninsula has much of the same natural beauty as the Missouri Ozarks! Can we develop this area in the same manner?
Kevin & Sherri Cox
Budget Host Inn
