If you’ve ever enjoyed a coffee by the river, watched your kids burn off energy with oversized games, or treated yourself to a crazy shake after a day on the water, chances are you already know and love NautiMi on the River. And now, this beloved Pinckney destination is celebrating a major milestone-five years in business!
To mark the occasion, NautiMi is inviting the community to a 5‑Year Anniversary Bash packed with family fun, giveaways, food, and plenty of reasons to celebrate everything that has made this riverfront spot such a local favorite.
From a Small Idea to a Community Favorite
Reaching five years in business is no small feat, especially for a business that opened just before (and during!) the challenges of COVID. For the owner of NautiMi, Melissa Kunnert, the milestone is both emotional and meaningful.
“There were so many people who doubted we would make it through even the first summer,” she shared. “Knowing that people are enjoying what I’m bringing to their community means everything to me.”
Rooted in deep family ties to the Pinckney area, her family has owned and operated a local business here since the 1950s, opening NautiMi was about more than just starting something new. It was about continuing a legacy of local connection, even if it looked a little different than originally planned.
What started with kayak and paddleboard rentals has evolved into a vibrant, welcoming space where families, friends, and neighbors gather season after season.
A Place Families Grow Up Together
Ask what makes NautiMi special, and the answer isn’t just the riverfront view-it’s the people.
“We have babies who are now turning five with us,” the Melissa said. “Families who visit on the same dates every year as a tradition. Being part of a family’s growth-what could be better than that?”
That sense of tradition and familiarity is exactly what keeps families coming back year after year.
Food, Drinks & Fan Favorites
NautiMi may not have a traditional kitchen, but what they do offer is creative, high‑quality, and made with love-often using local Michigan suppliers.
Fan favorites you’ll want to try (or revisit):
- 🍨Crazy Shakes
- 🐢“Look Who’s Nauti Now” Bucket of Ice Cream
- ☕Rachel’s Peanut Butter Latte
- 🌸In Bloom Lavender Latte
First‑time visitors shouldn’t miss the Smavo Avocado Toast or Peanut Butter Paradise Gourmet Toast (made on Lakehouse Bakery sourdough), fresh Açaí bowls, and the popular Pinckney Green Smoothie.
New this season? NautiMi’s own cold brew, now available in creative flavors—and even sold as a take‑home concentrate so you can enjoy it all week long.
☀️After a long Michigan winter, NautiMi is ready for sunshine and river days!
- 🚣 Kayak & paddleboard rentals (starting early May)
- 🛥️ Tiki Boat cruises
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And new this year, NautiMi has added an Activity Director! Expect a full lineup of classes, workshops, and activities for kids and adults alike-from creative projects to movement and enrichment. (You can always find the latest schedule on their website under Classes & Workshops.)
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🎂 Don’t Miss the 5‑Year Anniversary Bash!
The biggest highlight of the season is the NautiMi 5th Anniversary Bash, and it’s shaping up to be a can’t‑miss event for families.
Event Details
Saturday, April 25
⏰1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍NautiMi on the River: 9260 McGregor Rd, Pinckney, MI 48169
🎉 What to Expect:
- 🎩BOYer! The Magic Guy with balloon animals
- 🎨 Face painting
- 🧶 Make‑and‑take craft area for kids AND adults
- 🍱734 Hibachi & More serving up favorites
- 👕Huge in‑store sales (including 50% off current clothing & NautiMi Chain of Lakes tees/sweatshirts)
- 🛶Weather permitting: mini rides on NauTikiMI, NautiMi’s custom tiki boat
- 🐢“Turtley Awesome Scavenger Hunt” with prizes and gifts from local vendors and businesses
- 🍦 Limited‑edition treats like:
- Ice cream sundaes in viral Lowe’s mini buckets
- Buckets of iced lattes
- A special birthday crazy shake
And while this is just one big day of celebration, NautiMi plans to celebrate all season long.
Why Locals Love NautiMi
Whether you’re sipping coffee with river views, letting kids run free in the game area, or enjoying lunch from a local food truck, NautiMi offers something rare-a chance to slow down and feel like you’re on vacation, even for just an hour.
“Our goal is for people to feel like they’re stepping away from the everyday,” the owner shared. “We want people to feel like friends—friends who return, grow with us, and make memories here.”
Stay Connected
To keep up with events, activities, and seasonal specials:
- 🌐 Visit: www.nautimiontheriver.com
- 📘 Facebook: NAUTIMI
Happy 5 Years, NautiMi!
If you haven’t visited yet, the anniversary celebration is the perfect time. And if NautiMi is already part of your family traditions—we’ll see you by the river. 💙
