Shopping

If you're looking for something a little different from the malls in nearby Saginaw and Midland and the outlet malls in Birch Run and Lansing, you might want to check out Clare, Gladwin, Cadillac, Houghton Lake, and Traverse City.

Snug Haven is surrounded by little towns with interesting shops on their main streets, reminiscent of an older, quieter time. Jay's sporting goods store is located just outside the Clare city limits; it sells everything you could possibly imagine for enjoying the great outdoors. If you have room for Amish furniture, you might go to Benchley's (on Tobacco Road, near Clare) or venture a bit further south to By Candlelight in Rosebush.

If it's genuine Amish items you seek, Snug Haven is located in the heart of Amish country. You will see horse-drawn buggies parked along M -61 heading toward Gladwin on Saturdays and at the expressway exit in Clare. Amish families will be selling handmade quilts, baskets, and preserves. For a more personal experience Anna Troyer sells quilts off a bed in her home, located just off M-61 about 20 miles from the resort. She'll also take special orders and ship your quilt when it's ready. There are Amish bakeries in both Clare and Rosebush. Ask us for directions.

There are several antique and gift shops in Houghton Lake worth investigating, as well as the Davis Museum, which contains thousands of items arranged as an 1800's country store. There are also antique stores in Gladwin and West Branch.

Cadillac is just over an hour to the north and west of us. If you've heard of "Chef Herman," you'll want to visit his restaurant, bakery and meat market there. Cadillac also has several antique shops and some gift stores of interest.

If you're looking for some high-end collectibles and art, try the Traverse City area. It's about an hour and a half away, but well worth the drive. Traverse City and the nearby Leelanau Peninsula are home to many local artists and craftspeople who sell their wares in downtown stores and roadside galleries. This is also fruit country, which means wine-tasting! Chateau Grand Traverse Riesling is a personal favorite. They ship anywhere.