Even though summer is the shortest season in Michigan, it definitely makes up for the miserable weather during the rest of the year. Summer is the best time of year in Michigan, and, in my biased opinion, there is no better state to spend your summer in than Michigan. Though there is no shortage of activities during June, July, and August in our lovely state, there are a few that anyone spending the summer here has to do. Whether you're an out of state student staying for the summer, or a native Michigander, here are a few things you should make sure to do this summer.

Go to a Tigers game.

There is nothing better than going down to downtown Detroit on a beautiful summer evening to watch the Tigers play. The Tigers have started the season strong, and there will definitely be some exciting games this summer. Also, after certain Friday and Saturday night games, a fireworks show is put on as an added bonus.

Take a weekend trip to Traverse City.

Traverse City is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Michigan. It boasts beautiful beaches, amazing golf courses, and a downtown with great restaurants and cute shops, perfect for a long weekend with friends! Make sure to visit the Cherry Republic for some delicious cherry pie and the Sleeping Bear Dunes, which was voted "The Most Beautiful Place in America" by Good Morning America viewers.

Attend a concert at DTE Energy Music Theater.

DTE is by far one of the most fun places to see a concert, especially on a warm summer night. You can tailgate all day outside before going into the show, and the relaxed, party atmosphere continues inside the venue as well. Seats on the lawn are always reasonably priced, and great acts such as Lady Antebellum, Kelly Clarkson, J.Cole, and Tim McGraw are scheduled to perform this summer. If you're looking for a fun summer concert, DTE is definitely the place.

Have a fancy date night in downtown Ann Arbor.

The dining options in downtown Ann Arbor are endless, and every option is delicious! Dress up for a fancy night out, grab your significant other, and spend a nice summer night at one of Ann Arbor's finest restaurants, such as Gratzi, The Chop House, Real Seafood Company, or Palio.

Take a canoe or raft trip down a river.

Michigan is blessed not only with many lakes, but also some beautiful rivers, many of which are perfect for a canoe or raft trip. Some of my favorites are the Huron River in Ann Arbor, the Au Sable River in the Huron National Forest, and the Platte River near Traverse City. Nothing is more perfect on a nice summer day than a float down the river with your friends. Most major canoe spots have affordable rentals available right on the river bank as well.