The Great American Get-Away Part 12: The Great Lakes
They're not just good lakes; they're Great Lakes. You might know them better as Lake Huron, Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, Lake Michigan, and Lake Superior. By the way, you'll only think they're great if you visit in the summer.
DAS Demo Facts About the Great Lakes
These lakes are so great, they have their own website, great-lakes.net. Here are some interesting facts you can find there.
The Great Lakes contain one-third of the world's fresh surface water—6 quadrillion gallons if you're counting at home (how many of you even knew the number quadrillion existed? Be honest). That's enough water to cover the entire United States with 9.6 feet of water.
The Great lakes cover 94,000 square miles. That's bigger than New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Jennifer Lopez's rear end combined.
Major Cities of the Great Lakes
It's no surprise that the Great Lakes are home to several major cities. They include Rochester, Buffalo, Erie, Cleveland, Toledo, Detroit, Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Duluth. If you find yourself in one of these major cities in the summer, cool off with a day at the beach.
Things to Do
The main attractions of the Great Lakes exist outside of giant municipalities and smoke belching factories. The Great Lakes provide an opportunity to experience the great outdoors. Here are some Great Lakes favored activities.
Fishing - Some of the best fishing in the world occurs in the Great Lakes. Depending on which lake you prefer, you can find perch, walleye, bass, trout, salmon, and just about anything else. Whether you prefer fishing off a pier or fishing off a boat, you'll find it in just about any Great Lakes town.
Boating - The Great Lakes are best experienced in a boat. Before you hitch the rowboat to the back of your minivan, keep in mind that the Great Lakes are more like seas than lakes. Boat rentals are available at any Great Lakes city.
Water Sports - The Great Lakes are not only big, they're relatively calm, although windy days do produce choppiness. Jet skis, water skis, parasailing and other water activities provide hours of fun. Be sure to check water and weather conditions in the area before setting out.
Exploring - The Great Lakes contain numerous islands, some inhabited. Major Great Lakes islands have ferry service in the summer.
Swimming - You don't need to rent expensive water equipment to have fun at the lake. Grab a blanket, bring the kids, pack a lunch, and spend a day at the beach. If you don't feel like preparing lunch, there's bound to be a family-friendly restaurant nearby.
