06/29/2020- COVID-19 doesn’t mean you have to put your summer vacation plans on hold this year. In fact, representatives with Pure Michigan say it’s the perfect time to plan a stay-cation and check out some of the hidden gems in your own backyard. Dave Lorenz with Pure Michigan spent last week criss-crossing his way through the UP learning more about how businesses and attractions are working to safely reopen their doors to guests. He says some of the most common things he’s seeing are increased cleaning and sanitizing efforts, social distancing, and the installation of protective barriers, and, he adds, a lot of people opting to stick closer to home.

Even with families beginning to venture for leisure travel again, Lorenz says the tourism industry is likely going to be one of the hardest hit by the coronavirus pandemic.

Lorenz says the public can do their part to keep travel safe in Michigan by wearing face masks, washing their hands frequently, and staying home if they don’t feel well or suspect they may have been exposed to COVID-19.