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The Best Episodes of Under the Radar Michigan

Every episode of Under the Radar Michigan ranked from best to worst. Let's dive into the Best Episodes of Under the Radar Michigan!

Explore the best of Michigan - from restaurants and museums to cool businesses and neighborhoods - and discover its unique people, places, and things.

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  1. #1 Fan Favorite
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    Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 1 - "Take Me to the Pilot" - Kalamazoo, Detroit, Royal Oak
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    #1 - "Take Me to the Pilot" - Kalamazoo, Detroit, Royal Oak

    S1:E1

    Royal Oak, Detroit, Kalamazoo: In the first episode of "Under the Radar - Michigan", Tom shares the mind-blowing aviation experience that the Air Zoo in Kalamazoo -- voted the best place to take someone visiting Michigan -- has to offer. He then heads to Royal Oak to Zumba, a restaurant that prides itself on its authentic and fresh Mexican food that’s also a steal. Next, Tom makes his way to one of Detroit’s hidden treasures, the Inn on Ferry Street in Midtown, a collection of bed and breakfasts nestled near the epicenter of Detroit’s art, music, and culture. These three destinations are just the beginning. Michigan has over 10 million people, 300 cities, 260 villages, 1200 townships. With “Under the Radar - Michigan,” audiences will discover them all. Join host Tom Daldin, a proud resident of Michigan his whole life, for a brand new series called "Under the Radar - Michigan".

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  2. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 2 - "Piece of Cake, er Strudel" - Grand Rapids, Cadillac, Port Huron
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    #2 - "Piece of Cake, er Strudel" - Grand Rapids, Cadillac, Port Huron

    S1:E2

    Grand Rapids, Cadillac, Port Huron: Episode 102 of “Under the Radar Michigan,” is loaded with good food, phenomenal people and fabulous hot spots to stop and rest a spell. Tom Daldin takes you through the thriving city of Grand Rapids, where he explores the following: the B.O.B (aka The Big Old Building) an old grocery warehouse turned into the city’s main entertainment center. “Under The Radar- Michigan” travels next to the city of Cadillac, which prides itself on being a great place to live and a great place to play! Many new businesses are coming into the new main street area, such as the large and whimsical Toy Town, which local business owners believe really contributes to the city’s growth. You’ve got to see the first class European style hotel in the Herman’s European Café & Hotel which lets visitors unwind after a day of fishing, hiking, and boating.

    Director:Unknown
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  3. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 3 - "My Guitar is Worth $12.50" - Detroit, Lansing, Battle Creek
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    #3 - "My Guitar is Worth $12.50" - Detroit, Lansing, Battle Creek

    S1:E3

    Detroit, Lansing, Battle Creek: In the third episode of “Under The Radar - Michigan”, host Tom Daldin asks viewers to revisit the city of Detroit, a city that is coming back to life with its new businesses, restaurants, and entertainment centers. New strips popping up across the city help this historic city thrive once again, and Detroit’s historic entertainment district offers something for everyone, especially if you love jazz. Cliff Bells, a restored jazz club from the 1930s, offers great food, classic cocktails, and amazing musicians to transport you back to when jazz was king and elegance was everything. “Under the Radar – Michigan” then travels to our state’s capitol in Lansing. This city isn’t only for housing our government however.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  4. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 4 - “Does it or Does it NOT?” - Marquette, Alpena
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    #4 - “Does it or Does it NOT?” - Marquette, Alpena

    S1:E4

    Marquette, Alpena: Marquette Where a Beautiful Waterfront, a Great Meal, and Quirky Creativity Meet Host Tom Daldin, of Under The Radar Michigan reminds viewers that the best vacation doesn’t have to include a trip to the airport. A day’s drive will take you to lovely Marquette, nestled in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula near the southern shores of Lake Superior. A hilly college town, Marquette’s downtown area bustles with a hum of friendly energy and is filled with character and charm. A walk along the waterfront reveals beautiful homes that were once old factories—providing great photo opportunities as well as showing the city’s transformation. If you love authentic Cajun/Creole food, you won’t want to miss “Laginappe – A Cajun Creole Eatery”. Master Chef Dan has taken special care to bring Louisiana’s finest culinary favorites and Bourbon street essence to downtown Marquette.

    Director:Unknown
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  5. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 5 - "Shut Your Pie Hole" - Traverse City, Port Austin
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    #5 - "Shut Your Pie Hole" - Traverse City, Port Austin

    S1:E5

    Traverse City, Port Austin: Traverse City: Where High Class Spirits Meet a Small-Town Vibe Host Tom Daldin ventures to beautiful Traverse City, located at the base of Traverse Bay in northeastern lower Michigan. It’s a city that boasts a great downtown area that is filled with wonderful restaurants and is known for its exceptional spirits—specifically, vodka. It’s a little known fact that Traverse City produces the top 6 best vodkas in the world. To investigate, Tom visits the Grand Traverse Distillery, which produces these high-class spirits. One visit is all it takes to see why it has been the proud winner of numerous blind-tasting events and how it has developed into a local institution, simultaneously elevating the status of Michigan products the world-over. Traverse City is also home to an already iconic Michigan product: the cherry.

    Director:Unknown
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  6. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 6 - "Never Leave a Man Behind" - Sault Ste. Marie, Cheboygan
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    #6 - "Never Leave a Man Behind" - Sault Ste. Marie, Cheboygan

    S1:E6

    Cheboygan, Sault Ste. Marie: Sault Saint Marie & Cheboygan Home to Breathtaking Waterways and Rich History FIRST STOP, SAULT SAINT MARIE: Host Tom Daldin drives to the northeastern end of the UP to visit scenic Sault Saint Marie, a town with many claims to fame. Having been established in 1668, Sault Saint Marie bears the title of ‘oldest city in the Midwest.’ It’s also home to the Soo locks. Visitors in every part of town can see the giant freighters passing through from the beautiful, tree-lined streets downtown. Those interested in eating great food as well as taking in the sights can head downtown to Karl’s Cuisine, where every meal is made from scratch. Everyday, Chef Karl and his wife, Paula, bring food from simple to spectacular, making it good for the soul while making sure it’s still good for you. Restaurants like theirs, which nurture customers as well as the community, have earned Sault Saint Marie the title ‘Best Food town in the Midwest’ this year.

    Director:Unknown
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    The 20 WORST Episodes of Under the Radar Michigan

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  7. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 7 - "Good Enough for Bo" - Munising, Ann Arbor
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    #7 - "Good Enough for Bo" - Munising, Ann Arbor

    S1:E7

    Munising, Ann Arbor: FIRST STOP, MUNISING: Under The Radar Michigan travels to the best kept secret in the upper peninsula beautiful Munising. In Munising you'll visit the incredible Pictured Rocks National Lake Shore, hike to scenic waterfalls that are right in town, and watch Tom sample the best (and only) whitefish sausage he's ever had. You'll also discover where you can get a gourmet meal to go, on your own pontoon boat out and around the Pictured Rocks. NEXT STOP, ANN ARBOR: Next, host Tom Daldin travels to the home of The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Ann Arbor is a very comfortable and intellectual place, where people are passionate about learning, and independent thought; and boy, do they love good food, In Ann Arbor, Tom discovers why a meal at the restaurant, Afternoon Delight, is totally worth the wait; and were Bo Schembechler always went to make sure he looked good for game-day.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  8. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 8 - "A Tale of Two Tawas" - Tawas, Monroe
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    #8 - "A Tale of Two Tawas" - Tawas, Monroe

    S1:E8

    Monroe, Tawas: FIRST STOP, TEWAS CITY and EAST TAWAS: This episode has everything from culture and kites, to food and a fantastic boat trip. Under The Radar travels up to Tawas City and East Tawas for a tale of two cities that when combined, make one great place to live work and play. Tom takes a fascinating boat trip to Charity Island. NEXT STOP, MONROE: We finish our Michigan adventure in Monroe, a beautiful city with great history, and wonderful people. You’ll visit a boutique hotel that will blow your mind; get a dose of the rich history of the area; and hear from two local artists that are putting a creative eye on Monroe. Tom also discovers two gourmet restaurants that are worth the drive to Monroe, no matter how far away you live. Then, once back on the mainland, show you the only full service resort in Michigan that's on Lake Huron. After all that, Tom still finds time to fly a kite, and sample some of the best beef jerky on planet earth.

    Director:Unknown
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  9. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 9 - "Light the Town!" - Boyne City, Rochester
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    #9 - "Light the Town!" - Boyne City, Rochester

    S1:E9

    Boyne City, Rochester: FIRST STOP, BOYNE CITY: You've heard the expression "art imitates life, well, in this episode, you will see how "art" changed the lives of a lot of people in Boyne City. You'll also meet a custom boat builder who ships (pun intended) his boats all around the world, and see a view of Lake Charlevoix that's totally worth the climb. Just ask Tom, he's still out of breath. NEXT STOP, ROCHESTER: Then, Under The Radar travels to Rochester where Tom helps light up the town "literally" with the Rochester Bright Lights Festival. Tom then visits the only certified organic restaurant in Michigan, finds a bit of Poland in Michigan and then gets gnarly and tries not to break anything at the South Street Skate Park.

    Director:Unknown
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  10. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 10 - "Farewell to Arms" - Detroit, Petoskey
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    #10 - "Farewell to Arms" - Detroit, Petoskey

    S1:E10

    Detroit, Petoskey: DETROIT: This week Under The Radar Michigan goes back to the Motor City to find out how The Sphinx Organization is literally changing the faces of symphony orchestras around the world … We’ll also discover the best French crepes outside of Paris, and see African beads over a thousand years old. PETOSKEY: Then we head north to Petoskey to stay at the historic Perry Hotel ... We'll also stop by American Spoon to see how it all started, and taste natures best preserves. We'll dine like kings at Chandler's experience some of Michigan's most inspired artists at The Crooked Tree Art Center ... and "almost" have a drink with the great, late Ernest Hemingway at The City Park Grill.

    Director:Unknown
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  11. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 11 - "Mike... You Still With Us?" - Hamtramck, Frankenmuth
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    #11 - "Mike... You Still With Us?" - Hamtramck, Frankenmuth

    S1:E11

    Hamtramck, Frankenmuth: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, Tom takes viewers on a trip to Disneyland … but this one’s in Hamtramck, and it’s one of the most colorful and eclectic collections of Americana you’ll ever see. Tom also gets hip at a retro, resale shop called Detroit Threads, and eats at a Mexican/Asian fusion restaurant … Then Tom will show you how to become German in Frankenmuth, and take viewers to an international festival where they literally turn snow into a show.

    Director:Unknown
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  12. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 12 - "One Block South of the Blinking Light" - Houghton Lake, Marquette
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    #12 - "One Block South of the Blinking Light" - Houghton Lake, Marquette

    S1:E12

    Houghton Lake, Marquette: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, Tom Heads for Houghton Lake and one of Michigan’s oldest and largest winter festivals … Tip Up Town. While there, you’ll discover that there’s a lot more going on than just ice fishing. Next you’ll head back up to Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula to visit a fascinating snowmobile museum; find out where they make the legendary Stormy Kromer hat; and experience the U.P. 200 … a grueling 200 mile dogsled race that runs right through the streets of downtown Marquette.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  13. Under the Radar Michigan Season 1 Episode 13 - "Swamp Rabbit" - Lansing, Wyandotte
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    #13 - "Swamp Rabbit" - Lansing, Wyandotte

    S1:E13

    Lansing, Wyandotte: On this episode of Under The Radar- Michigan, we head back to Lansing for inspirational stories from three motivated Michigan entrepreneurs. Tom helps us discover how Sweetie-licious pies are becoming a national sensation; how a great plan is making Cravings Gourmet Popcorn a huge hit; and how Biggby Bob has turned his love for a good cup a joe into a thriving Michigan business. Then, we hit Wyandotte for some great local art; the world’s best sliders; a real Muskrat dinner … and we’ll see how Wyandotte is using Geothermal energy to take its residents into a green future.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  14. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 1 - We Made it to Season Two!! - Dearborn, Ann Arbor
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    #14 - We Made it to Season Two!! - Dearborn, Ann Arbor

    S2:E1

    Dearborn, Ann Arbor: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we travel to Dearborn, where Tom discovers a city rich in culture. Viewers will discover where to get great music, find food made with love, and visit a place where the comic books turn your brain green. Next, we head back to Ann Arbor for more food, fun and conversation. First stop, historic Kerrytown Market, where Tom samples fantastic seafood, and meets a genuine “spice girl” … Tom also explores one of Ann Arbor’s cultural treasures ... The Michigan Theater.

    Director:Unknown
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  15. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 2 - Donuts and Coffee - Harbor Country, Kalamazoo
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    #15 - Donuts and Coffee - Harbor Country, Kalamazoo

    S2:E2

    Harbor Country, Kalamazoo: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, Tom and the crew try to take back Michigan’s own Harbor Country. It seems that people from everywhere but here come to this little known part of Michigan for great restaurants, historic inns, homemade ice cream … and believe it or not … to surf. Then, we head for Kalamazoo to watch a couple of Michigan entrepreneurs reach for their dreams. We’ll also learn how coffee is roasted with a local barista, and discover a classic place to spend the night, right downtown.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  16. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 3 - That's a really Big Tree - Detroit, Traverse City
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    #16 - That's a really Big Tree - Detroit, Traverse City

    S2:E3

    Detroit, Traverse City: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we head back to Detroit for that classic combination we all know as wine, cheese and fire. Tom shows viewers a hip new place to discover good wine, and how you can learn to make your own cheese right at home. Viewers will also see how playing with fire can be a fascinating experience. … Then, we head north to Traverse City for an historic stay; a tall ship trip, and believe it or not … some of the best southern, soul food you’ll ever eat.

    Director:Unknown
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  17. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 4 - Fishon! - Muskegon, Flint
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    #17 - Fishon! - Muskegon, Flint

    S2:E4

    Muskegon, Flint: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we start things off in the port city of Muskegon, at a restaurant that’s taken the term “homemade” to a whole new level. We’ll also board a real World War II submarine, and watch Tom muddle through his very first charter fishing trip … Then, we’re off to see how a very old building is helping put a brand new face on Flint. We’ll also show you how old meets new at a great place to eat, and experience a culture cluster … like no other.

    Director:Unknown
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  18. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 5 - He's Regular Size - Charlevoix, Detroit
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    #18 - He's Regular Size - Charlevoix, Detroit

    S2:E5

    Charlevioix, Detroit: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we travel to Charlevoix, for a burger bistro foodies frequent. We’ll also see homes you’d swear hobbits inhabit, and to meet a local superhero they affectionately call Mr. Petunia. Then, it’s back to the motor city to tour Detroit in a completely unique way … on a Segway. We’ll also prove that shopping for groceries in Detroit can be an enlightening experience, and we’ll go to the movies … in style ... at The Detroit Film Theater.

    Director:Unknown
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  19. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 6 - I have the feeling I'm being watched... - Ludington, Rogers City
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    #19 - I have the feeling I'm being watched... - Ludington, Rogers City

    S2:E6

    Ludington, Rogers City: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we begin our adventure in the beautiful beach town of Ludington. Tom and the crew dine “twice” in a blue moon; find a local watering hole that’s all Michigan, and discover a thriving art community. Next, we head to Roger City and stop by a place where we’re pretty sure Pee Wee bought his bike. We’ll also meet some incredible “meat” people, and spend time with a creative couple who are really making a difference.

    Director:Unknown
    Writer:Unknown

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  20. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 7 - Look Kids, Fish! - Ypsilanti, Leland
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    #20 - Look Kids, Fish! - Ypsilanti, Leland

    S2:E7

    Ypsilanti, Leland: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we start things off in Ypsilanti at a restaurant that took us so far back in time, lunch was only 40 cents. We also discover some very cool places to live right downtown, and show you a classic tavern that the famous frequent. Next, we head to beautiful Leland to see how some very creative people are turning old clothes into new fashions. We’ll also head for the high seas to visit an island of shipwrecks and giant trees. Not to worry … once back on land, we visit one of Michigan’s most romantic Inns.

    Director:Unknown
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  21. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 8 - Pop Pop Americano - Detroit, Saugatuck
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    #21 - Pop Pop Americano - Detroit, Saugatuck

    S2:E8

    Detroit, Saugatuck: On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we head to Detroit’s own Eastern Market for one of the most authentic urban adventures in the entire United States … we’ll discover why Eastern Market is a unique urban village where people can shop, live, work or even start a business. Then, we head west to find out why Saugatuck & Douglas are two towns that function as one incredible placed to experience Michigan. We’ll spend the night on a rare “Boat & Breakfast” … take a behind the scenes tour of the food culture there … and finally kick back and relax “Jamaican style”, right here in Michigan.

    Director:Unknown
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  22. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 9 - Go Fetch, Rusty - Grand Rapids, Mt Pleasant
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    #22 - Go Fetch, Rusty - Grand Rapids, Mt Pleasant

    S2:E9

    On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we head to Grand Rapids to experience an incredible, world class art competition … we’ll also explore the city on some homegrown bicycles, and meet the man who invented a better hotdog. Then, we head for the home of Central Michigan University to meet the person who reenergized downtown Mount Pleasant … we’ll also experience some sweet “flour power” … eat at a Brass Café … and find out why a promising young chef is making his future right here in Michigan.

    Director:Unknown
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  23. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 10 - I'm All Thumbs - Lexington, Bay City
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    #23 - I'm All Thumbs - Lexington, Bay City

    S2:E10

    On this episode of Under The Radar Michigan, we find out that not only is Lexington a great vacation destination … it’s also great wine country … We’ll also visit a music festival named after a part of Michigan’s mitten, and meet the man who put a new face on the entire town. Then, we head north to beautiful Bay City to see some of the best Michigan history, and future development you’ll see anywhere in the state. We’ll also see some awesome classic cars, tons of antiques, a great place to eat … and a theater that you’d swear was left here by the ancient Mayans.

    Director:Unknown
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  24. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 11 - You're Too Old - Lansing, Ishpeming
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    #24 - You're Too Old - Lansing, Ishpeming

    S2:E11

    Lansing continues to move Michigan forward, but not just through the efforts of our state government. There’s also a lot of stuff happening on the ground there to help revitalize our economy. Everywhere you look, Lansing is alive with new business, cool spaces, great places and young faces bringing energy to downtown. Next, we headed up to Ishpeming in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula. A lot of people don’t go to the U.P. because they say it’s too far. To that I simply say, nothing is too far, if you’re having fun in the car, and if you’ve seen our show, you know that UTR is just another way to spell FUN.

    Director:Unknown
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  25. Under the Radar Michigan Season 2 Episode 12 - Chewy-ness-ness-ocity? - Ferndale, Grand Rapids
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    #25 - Chewy-ness-ness-ocity? - Ferndale, Grand Rapids

    S2:E12

    The City of Ferndale has won all kinds of awards for their public spaces, business development and downtown. It truly is an enlightened city with a big heart and a lot of personality. Tons of progressive people live, work and go there every day to enjoy one of the coolest places to eat, shop and play in Michigan. If you’re looking for a sense of place, this is a great place to get it. Grand Rapids continues to be a driving innovative, creative and economic force in Michigan. In fact, there’s so much happening that you’d almost have to live there to keep up. Not a bad idea! This modern city continues to be one of the best places to be in the U.S. There’s a great energy and attitude that’s bringing in new business, great spaces where you can connect with your fellow urbanites and really cool places to live right downtown.

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Best Episodes Summary

""Take Me to the Pilot" - Kalamazoo, Detroit, Royal Oak" is the best rated episode of "Under the Radar Michigan". It scored /10 based on 0 votes. Directed by Unknown and written by Unknown, it aired on 6/26/2010. This episode scored 0.0 points higher than the second highest rated, ""Piece of Cake, er Strudel" - Grand Rapids, Cadillac, Port Huron".