MARQUETTE – With winter turned into spring, summer is just around the corner and the outdoor leisure industries in Munising and Alger Counties are expected to be booming.

While many unknowns were affected by the pandemic last summer, the lakeshore area was still reporting record-breaking tourism figures.

It was a guessing game last year, but tourism numbers are expected to be strong this summer, said Dr. Kathy Reynolds, CEO of the Greater Munising Bay Partnership / Chamber of Commerce of Alger County.

“We assume that it will be very crowded this summer. I mean, reservations I think are open and our attractions and things like that. “ She said. “Everyone had a good summer last year, even if some were 50% busy. I think they are expecting, all of us, a very busy summer. “

Reynolds, along with many in Alger County, are expecting those high numbers this year based on what brought many to the lakefront last year and those are people who want to travel and get out of town, she said. But Munising business owners are used to it as things change overnight, she added. This year’s festivals and attractions are being better prepared, as record-breaking numbers can be expected at this point.

“We had such a busy year last year so it’s not like we’re having a slow year and suddenly it’s like we’re going to have a big year.” Reynolds said. “We’ve had growth for about 10 years now, we’ve had another year that has been substantial, but every year has been an increase.”

With the onset of spring, attractions like tours and cruises are just beginning, she said.

“Usually people are on vacation, some of them are taking a break, usually April is very slow in the city. People need to rest before they go as some of these companies are busy even in winter. “ Reynolds said. “It’s kind of a routine, everyone starts working on their planning and they’ve already hired people.”

But now everyone is starting to think about getting back out, and officials are making sure things get going by early May to be prepared for a surge in tourism.

This early spring period is used for a break for many employees and owners as there is no time to take a break once summer is in full swing, she said.

Reynolds added she expects logs of disinfecting and wearing masks for activities in Alger County to continue. The exact event and attraction capacity is currently unknown as it depends on the state epidemic regulations that may be in place at any given time.

The Greater Munising Bay Partnership / Chamber of Commerce of Alger County can be reached at 906-387-2138 for additional questions.

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