Mike Dell's World

Mike Dell's World


Welcome to Interlochen Michigan

November 02, 2025

Interlochen is a small town in NW Lower Michigan near Traverse City and is home to the Interlochen Center for the Arts and WIAA Radio.

I grew up near there and it’s  a great little town.   Check out: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interlochen,_Michigan

 

– Episode Title: “Welcome to Interlochen”
– Host: Mike Dell
– Location: Interlochen, Michigan, 15 miles from host’s home
– Personal Connection: Frequent visits for brunch and family gatherings
– Key Feature: Interlochen Center for the Arts – a renowned performing and visual arts school
– Population: 694 (2020 census), significantly increased by summer music camp attendees
– Nearby Family: Sister lives in the area
– Geographical Context: Reference to US highways nearby
– Town Status: Unincorporated, with its own post office and ZIP code
– Infrastructure: Small airport with two grass runways; ongoing tension with township regarding its existence
– Name Origin: “Interlochen” – Latin for “between” and Scottish for “lakes,” located between Green Lake and Duck Lake
– Concert Venue: Arts academy venue accommodates ~4,000, with views of Green Lake
– Winter Activities: Ice fishing on Green Lake, driving across a frozen ice bridge
– Community Memories: Hanging out at state park beach, deep-fried smelt culinary experience
– Graduation Venue: Traverse City Public Schools holds ceremonies at Kresge Auditorium in Interlochen
– Notable Alumni: Includes Chip Davis (Mannheim Steamroller) and singer Jewel
– Next Episode Tease: Focus on an interesting building in Traverse City