Several Area Businesses Recognized as 'Michigan's Best'

Several Straits of Mackinac area businesses were recognized among Michigan's Best in The Detroit News annual survey. More than 40,000 people submitted ballots and voted online during the 2008 survey, which was conducted over one week in March. The top two businesses throughout the state were recognized in a number of categories.

The state's best fudge shops are both located on Mackinac Island. Joann's Fudge was named Michigan's Best; Murdick's Fudge took second place.

Patrick Sinclair's Irish Pub on Mackinac Island was voted to have the state's best happy hour.

Mackinaw City's Thunder Falls Family Water Park was named the best water park in Michigan, ahead of Traverse City's Great Wolf Lodge.

Shepler's was recognized as the best ferry to Mackinac Island; Arnold Transit placed second.

Freshwater Foods of St. Ignace finished second as best specialty market, behind Randazzo Fresh Market, which has locations in Macomb and Warren.

In the category of best wine selection, Nicholas's Wine Tasting Room of Mackinaw City placed second behind Papa Joe's Gourmet Market and Catering, which has locations in Rochester Hills and Birmingham.

Mackinac Island's Mission Point Resort finished second as Michigan's best workout spot, behind the many locations of the YMCA.

The Island's annual Lilac Festival placed second in the category of best summer festival. The festival finished behind Sterlingfest Art and Jazz Fair, held annually in Sterling Heights.

The Island also boasts Michigan's second favorite women's clothing store in Nephews of Mackinac Island, which finished behind Plato's Closet's numerous locations.

Captains' Quarters in Traverse City, owned by Maurie Allen, the father of State Senator Jason Allen, placed second for favorite men's clothing store.