Best of NM 2012 in Michigan where you’ll see elk wandering the woods or a town decorated like the Alpine villages of Switzerland...except in Gaylord. Here are a few places to stock up on sporting goods, kick back for a brew and take in the ambiance of what makes Gaylord, well, Gaylord.

Best of NM 2012 Foodies, hop-heads and social butterflies agree: Grand Traverse County is the place to be -- and nothing is more evident than the growing number of restaurants, breweries and festivals popping up across its 600+ square aces. Here is the Best of the Best of where to go and what to do in Grand Traverse.

Best of NM 2012 Hair Salon: Bayside Salon Window displays: Lima Bean Place to pamper your pet: SunDog Boarding Kennel Art gallery: Michigan Artist Gallery Stylish resale shop: Jaffes Store staff: Lima Bean Independent apparel: Lima Bean;Cotton Seed TIE Men’s store: Bahle’s.

Best of NM 2012 serve as the corridor to the north. Surrounded by water, woods and chocked full of history, it’s the last stop before folks say ‘Ya’ to da U.P. But this region is more than a pit stop for visitors, it’s home to eclectic shops, cool hangouts, good food and plenty of spirits.

Best of NM 2012 The top picks for Benzie County span the map, from the northeast shoulder of Interlochen to the southwest elbow of Elberta and everything in between. While the drive may be far, our readers believe these hot spots are worth the visit. So save a day and check out what makes Benzie County a diversified destination.

Best of NM 2012 and that smalltown feel greet visitors heading north on highways US-31 and US-131. Cadillac and Manistee serve as the gateways to Northern Michigan, welcoming “flatlanders” to all we have to offer. Express readers voted for the businesses that help make these anchor counties home to both locals and visitors alike.

Best of NM 2012 This region may appear sleepy to the unknowing passerby, but Antrim/ Kalkaska is full of local fun; and with powerhouse businesses like Shorts making waves across the food and beverage industry, this region is anything but hidden. Want to explore more? Check out these top picks:.