At least once a week, I hear myself uttering the phrase, “I need to try that!”

Whether about a new escape room in Buchanan or a new antique shop in Benton Harbor, it seems my list of “to-visits” grows longer and longer each week. The small business lover in me gets excited by every shiny new “now open” sign and “coming soon” business stories published on a seemingly weekly basis. It seems that new businesses have become as much of a default conversation as the weather forecast — and I love it!

This boom of new businesses and amenities in Michiana means that, although I have lived in Michiana the majority of my life, there is still so much I have not seen.

Many of you likely feel like you have seen every nook and cranny of Michiana — or at least the nooks and crannies you would like to see. You may have your old favorites — the diner you have visited every Thursday for lunch for the last 20 years, or the old fishing hole that is a well-kept family secret.

These old favorites are important, too. They give our communities their identities, and in some cases, have put those towns on the map.

New destinations, however, help to remind us of mainstays we may have forgotten about. Heading to a new corner of the region exposes us to even more opportunities.

In Friday’s newspapers, you will find a guide to the region spotlighting arts and culture opportunities both old and new. As you flip the pages, you may find destinations you know like the back of your hand, and, hopefully, you will find new places you have never visited.

Just in time for the summer season, we list all sorts of things to do and see right here in Michiana.

Outdoor enthusiasts can find all sorts of walking trails, gardens, lakes and campgrounds. History buffs can find museums and learn a bit about the region Art lovers will find public art displays, galleries, make-your-own-art destinations and live theaters.

Families simply looking for places to get out of the house can find family-focused opportunities, movie theaters, farmers markets and much more.

As you host family and friends for summer activities, or simply plan a day out on a budget, we encourage you to use Explore Michiana as your tour guide.

Our hope is that as you flip through the pages, you’ll find yourself saying, “I need to try that! And that! And that!” and then pass the guide to your friends so that they can try it, too.

Ambrosia Neldon is the general manager at Leader Publications. She can be reached by phone at (269) 687-7700 or by email at ambrosia.neldon@leaderpub.com