Go Wild in Northern Michigan
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If you are looking for something to do this summer in Michigan, do not miss out on the Call of the Wild Museum in Gaylord, MI. This museum offers a hidden gem that many people simply do not know about. Not only will you find a fun and unique museum, but there is also a fantastic mini-golf course to play and some fantastic go-karts to race.

About Call of the Wild Museum
The Call of the Wild Museum in Gaylord Michigan offers a fascinating view of taxidermy animals as well as other exhibits. The auditory calls from the animals are something you simply cannot find in different museums of this type. Make sure that you also visit the fabulous gift shop after your tour to pick up some of the yummy fudge and other great souvenirs.
More to Explore in Gaylord
After visiting the museum and having some outdoor fun playing mini-golf and racing go-karts, head over to Gaylord’s City Elk Park to view these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. You can view the elk from your car at the park as the animals are used to cars driving through. The feeding stations located throughout attract large herds of elk all throughout the year. The animals graze and are active throughout the day as they eat the new green growth.
Otsego County Historical Museum
After spending some time outside, your next stop when you are Gaylord should be the Otsego County Historical Museum. This excellent museum offers the history of the area with displays showing the region throughout time. The building was constructed around 1912 and was a cigar factory. You will also learn all about the schools of the past from the area. There are interactive displays that will allow you to learn more about what the education system was like in the past.
Old Spud Warehouse
A visit to Gaylord is not complete with a stop at the Old Spud Warehouse. This building was once a hub for the tater farmers in the 1900s. Today the building is a shop for those who are obsessed with home design. You will find many unique items in the shop, including jewelry, antiques, gifts, clothing, and one-of-a-kind pieces. You can spend hours rummaging through all of the exciting details found throughout Old Spud Warehouse.

Great Places to Eat
Gaylord is full of great places to enjoy a good meal. You should start off your day with a great breakfast from Diana’s Delights. This place will not disappoint. Everything on the menu is made from scratch and totally worth the wait. Make sure you try one of their fresh pastries or muffins. Breakfast is served all day, and there are always some great specials to try.
Another fun local place that you will want to check out while you are in town is Gobblers of Gaylord. This fun diner offers some fantastic homemade meals featuring turkey. The turkey mesquite sandwich is fabulous paired with a cup of soup or a side salad.
Alpine Tavern and Eatery is a great place to go for dinner. Located in downtown Gaylord, Alpine Tavern offers some excellent bar food and a fantastic atmosphere. If you are in the mood for some spice, the Firecracker burger is a perfect choice. For a full meal, try one of their stuffed burgers.
Lodging in Gaylord
Want to stay and play for a few nights or more? Gaylord is a great place to make your home base as you check items off your Michigan summer bucket list in Northern Michigan! Here are a few places to consider:
- Hampton Inn Gaylord
- The Guest House on Main
- Tru By Hilton Gaylord, MI
- Gaylord KOA Holiday
- Otsego Lake County Park