My entire family (minus my nephew, who was studying for midterms) spent the weekend at my sister’s new lake house in Watervliet, Mich., about 90 minutes from Chicago. Their house is right on Paw Paw Lake, the largest inland lake in southwest Michigan, with a shoreline measuring 9.2 miles.
Saturday started with a slow boat ride around the lake with our tour guide Scott (aka my brother-in-law). Although fairly new to the area himself, Scott impressed me with facts and figures combined with current news (all of which was confirmed by the Paw Paw Lake Foundation and the Paw Paw Lake Association).
Dogs Gone Wild is a hot dog-vending pontoon boat that roams the lake. They sell Vienna Beef hot dogs and some ice cream products. This is a great and popular attraction, although I am suggesting a veggie dog alternative.
Before it got too hot, we took out the jet skis for a few runs around the lake. Even my 81-year-old dad wanted a turn. It was great for cooling off.
The Easy Street Inn in nearby Coloma was a great lunch choice. I enjoyed the Cajun chicken roll-up, and others liked their burgers, but I hope they add a turkey burger to their menu. I bet they would make a great one. They get extra points for being so friendly.
After more fun on the lake, followed by some great grilling by Scott, we ventured to the Four Winds Casino about 10 minutes away in Hartford. Although not a huge casino, Four Winds had more than enough options for the eight of us. It was clean, laid out well and lively.
Sunday brunch at the Waterfront Restaurant on the lake was wonderful. Made-to-order omelets were definitely a highlight, but so was dining on the lake in such a relaxing place. They also have a full dinner menu, but the brunch is legendary.
We spent the bulk of Sunday in the boat, on the jet skis and playing with my sister’s two dogs. I also promised my dad I would mention he won every bags game he played!
Scott said it was his dream to have a house on the lake. I can’t argue with that. In fact, I plan on making many more visits.
— John Wroblewski, online contributor
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