By: Heather Cantin
If there is one thing we can all agree on, it’s how amazing our Michigan summers are.
It’s the season of long weekends – and cramming visits to all your favorite lakes, beaches, campgrounds and quaint small towns into the 14-ish short weeks between the start of summer vacation and when the crisp, cool air starts rolling in.
As an energy provider for 6.8 million Michiganders – many of whom are family, friends and neighbors – we have a responsibility to protect all the natural resources that make our state a great place to live and our summers so much fun.
That’s why we have our sights set on a clean energy transformation and a bright energy future that protects and preserves our home. Part of that is supporting the transition to zero emission electric vehicles – and, boy, has it been a big year!
Michigan has a goal to put two million EVs on the road and our Michigan-based auto manufacturers want EVs to make up 50% of new sales – all by 2030. These goals have sparked a movement. EV adoption grew by 71% last year – just in the communities we serve! So, we’ve been working around the clock to make sure there are lots of cool, accessible places to charge your vehicle.
And it just so happens a lot of these places are in some of Michigan’s most popular summer destinations. We’ve rounded up some fun spots around the state to explore while you charge your EV.
Saugatuck – If you’re into food and art.
Located on Blue Star Highway just outside the charming lakeside village of Saugatuck, the Roan & Black art gallery is the host of two fast chargers and two other public charging stations. The art gallery – along with its neighbor – the Pennyroyal Café, offers up an oasis for customers and travelers alike. What better way to pass the time while your EV charges than to grab a bite to eat, have some coffee and shop unique pieces from emerging artists and sculptors?
Ludington – If you’re looking for a beach town getaway.
If you’re looking for a place to rest, the Cartier Mansion Bed and Breakfast is located along the beautiful West Michigan shoreline and home to two public charging stations. This historic B&B includes modern amenities and is walkable to practically everything the cute beach town has to offer.
Traverse City – If you’ve got a sweet tooth.
Besides the obvious reason of being a skip and a jump away from Grand Traverse Bay, charging your EV at the local Burger King off US-31 also lands you steps away from enjoying Moomers Homemade Ice Cream from Woodland Sweets & Eats or watching a batch of fudge cool on the beautiful marble tables at Doug Murdick’s Fudge Store.
Suttons Bay – If you’re looking for local and sustainable food and drink.
Mawby Winery and Vineyard just south of Suttons Bay on the Leelanau Peninsula focuses on producing bottle-fermented sparkling wines and ciders. Stop by, plug into one of the two charging stations and enjoy a taste of their bubbly or a snack while you take in the scenic vineyard views.
Elk Rapids – If you need to stock up on groceries.
Not only is the Village Market located in the heart of Elk Rapids, but it offers a variety of good eats, fine wine and three fast charging stations. It makes the perfect pit stop to stock up on fresh produce while your battery stocks up with a fresh charge.
Mackinaw City – If you’re looking to charge up before crossing “the bridge.”
You can test your luck at the Odawa Casino located just off I-75. The casino hosts four fast charging stations where you can top off before you head over the Mackinac Bridge into the U.P. or before you board the ferry for Mackinac Island.
Rogers City – If you enjoy local farmers markets.
A few blocks from the bay and Lakeside Park located on Erie Street, the Rogers City Farmers Market is home to two fast charging stations. The farmers market is open every Friday from 9 a.m. to noon in June through September and offers specialty artisans from local farmers and growers.
Tawas City – If you’re looking to dip your toes in Lake Huron.
Tawas City Shoreline Park offers a place to charge your EV while you take in the sights of Lake Huron from a 450-foot-long pier, walk the boardwalk along the beach or let the kids play on the recently updated playscape. You could even venture a few blocks into town to enjoy local shops and eateries.
Take your EV on your next summer adventure! You can visit new places and support local businesses while you top off your charge. Download the PlugShare app or check out our map to find more fast-charging station locations across Michigan.
