Romantic Ideas for Sweetest Day

The first Sweetest Day was celebrated more than 60 years ago. Today, the third Saturday of October is set aside to remember those whose helpfulness and kindness we enjoy. This year, Sweetest Day will be celebrated on Saturday, October 19. Haven't thought of a way to charm your loved one? Don't worry. We've compiled a list of suggestions that will spark romance.

Massage for Partners. The Spa at The Inn at Bay Harbor, near Petoskey, offers a private instructional lesson during which a massage therapist demonstrates to partners the healing power of human touch. Partners participate so that the techniques can be applied at home. 231-439-4046 or www.innatbayharbor.com.

Lighthouse Lovers. The Big Sable Point Lighthouse in Ludington is open for tours through October 27 (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Located inside the Ludington State Park, you can enjoy the 1.75 mile walk out to the light, take in a breathtaking view from the top of the tower and then enjoy a quiet sunset on the beach. This is one of only a handful of lighthouse open to the public on Lake Michigan. A state park entrance pass is required, as is a $2 admission fee to the lighthouse. 231-845-7343 or www.bigsablelighthouse.org

Island Get-Away. Check out the rustic charm of historic Beaver Island. Board the Emerald Isle in Charlevoix and let the Beaver Island Boat Company take you to another world. Explore the natural wonders in the community of St. James and throughout the entire island. While there, be sure to schedule a tour of the Beaver Head Island Lighthouse on the south end of the island. 231-448-2505 or www.beaverisland.org

Dance the Night Away. Step back into an era where the bands were big and the music was magical at The Grand Hotel's Big Band Dance Extravaganza, October 18-20. Your toes will be tapping and your feet will be moving all weekend long. From the energetic sounds of Bob Snyder in the Theatre on Friday night to Gary Tole and the Legends of Swing with a tribute to Benny Goodman on Saturday night, the music and fun add up to a most memorable time. During the day, brush up on your dance steps with lessons from our dance instructors. On Saturday, indulge at our Grand Luncheon Buffet, featuring hot and cold entrees, seafood, salads, sumptuous pastries, and more. Bob Snyder will also make an encore performance on Sunday night. Make your reservations early for this extra night, as space is limited. 800-33-GRAND or www.grandhotel.com

Watch the sun set. No matter which lakeshore community you choose, you'll enjoy a spectacular sunset over the majestic Lake Michigan. From New Buffalo in Harbor Country to Petoskey in Boyne Country, the views along the sugar sand beaches of West Michigan offer the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening under the stars. 800-442-2084 or www.wmta.org

Wine and Dine. The vineyards of Michigan are nestled in the most scenic areas of the state. Plan a weekend or a day trip touring these lovely sites and discover the diversity of Michigan wines by visiting winery tasting rooms around the state. Wines from the Great Lakes State are receiving national and international recognition, and we encourage you to treat yourself to some of these world-class, award-winning wines. Wine and dine your sweetheart at Tabor Hill Winery in Buchanan. Their quaint restaurant overlooks the vineyard and is oh-so romantic. 517-373-1104 or www.michiganwines.com

Take it one step further. Why not enjoy an overnight stay at one of four winery B&Bs in West Michigan. Heart of the Vineyard in Baroda, Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay, and Chateau Grand Traverse and Chateau Chantal on the Old Mission Peninsula all have overnight accommodation packages. Spend the night or the weekend. 517-373-1104 or www.michiganwines.com

Learn a thing or two. The Terrace Inn in Petoskey is offering its "How to be an Innkeeper" weekend, October 18-20. Learn about all aspects of innkeeping from their experts. The package, which runs $169 per person, includes two nights lodging with continental breakfast, hands-on innkeeping experience and classes, fireside reception on Friday night and "Northern Michigan Buffet" dinner on Saturday night. The Terrace Inn is a charming historic bed & breakfast country inn. Built in 1911, the inn is designated as a National Historic Landmark. It is located in Bay View, Michigan, a fairy-tale Victorian village with over 400 Victorian cottages. Bay View is adjacent to Petoskey and Little Traverse Bay in Northwest Michigan. 800-530-9898 or www.theterraceinn.com

All that is Art. Photographs from the Collection of LaSalle National Bank Eye of the Beholder: A History of Photography will be on exhibit in the main galleries at the Grand Rapids Art Museum from October 18 through January 5. This comprehensive survey follows the development of the medium from its earliest forms to recent, modern works. 616-831-2910 or www.gramonline.org

Take in the colors. Fall will be bursting throughout West Michigan around October 19. Check out one of 25 scenic driving tours that have been mapped out for your convenience at www.wmta.org. Along each route, you'll find unique destinations, hot spots and natural attractions.                 

For more information, contact the West Michigan Tourist Association (WMTA) at 800-442-2084 or log on to www.wmta.org