If your idea of the perfect vacation is sugarsand beaches, clear blue waters along 28 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, outdoor adventures, climbing to the top of historic lighthouses, or exploring a charming downtown, Ludington is your destination for Pure Michigan fun.
If your idea of the perfect vacation is sugarsand beaches, clear blue waters along 28 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, outdoor adventures, climbing to the top of historic lighthouses, or exploring a charming downtown, Ludington is your destination for Pure Michigan fun.
Ludington's unspoiled natural resources offer a quintessential “Up North” experience all within easy reach located at the intersection of U.S. 31 and U.S. 10.
Ludington's unspoiled natural resources offer a quintessential “Up North” experience all within easy reach located at the intersection of U.S. 31 and U.S. 10.
No matter what you're seeking - a beach or outdoor adventure, a peaceful getaway, or just a community of friendly faces - you can find it in Pure Ludington.
No matter what you're seeking - a beach or outdoor adventure, a peaceful getaway, or just a community of friendly faces - you can find it in Pure Ludington.
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SLOW DOWN, YOU’RE HERE: A SUMMER WEEKEND IN SAULT STE. MARIE, CANADA
Our neighbor to the north is a slow-travel gem for visitors who love to immerse and take it all in.
BY CARA MCDONALD
You don’t rush into Sault Ste. Marie. Cross the International Bridge, curve along the St. Marys River, and within minutes you’re in the Canal District. Freighters glide through the locks, flower boxes frame benches along the boardwalk, and sailboats bob gently at marinas. The city has a quiet energy: not inactive, just unhurried, like the weekend ahead has permission to stretch.
FRIDAY NIGHT: STROLL, SIP, SAVOR
Check into a downtown stay like the Delta Hotels by Marriott Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront, within easy walking distance of the boardwalk and main attractions.
Walk toward Queen Street, the city’s spine of shops and restaurants. For dinner with a refined touch, The Mill Steakhouse + Wine Bar serves perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood in a historic sandstone building. For local favorites with a modern twist, Peace Restaurant offers shareable Asian-inspired plates of bao buns, dumplings, ramen and sushi rolls. For classic comfort, Ernie’s Coffee Shop delivers, with fresh fish, pressure-fried chicken and an elevated hometown diner atmosphere beloved by locals.
After dinner, drift back toward the water. Pause at the Soo Locks to watch vessels navigate the chambers, or stop for a nightcap at OutSpoken Brewing, where the patio draws a lively summer crowd for sippers like the fruity/hoppy Space Station IPA.
SATURDAY: THE AGAWA CANYON TRAIN ADVENTURE
This is your full-day crown jewel.
Beginning in early August, the Agawa Canyon Tour Train departs downtown early, winding 114 miles north into the Canadian Shield, a vast, ancient geological region dotted with exposed Precambrian rock, lakes, forests and waterfalls. Immediately, city streets give way to sheer rock cuts, dense forest, and lakes glimmering through the trees. Onboard narration shares Ojibwe history, early rail lore and seasonal highlights of the Algoma wilderness (keep your eyes peeled for moose).
Roughly four hours in, the train pauses at Agawa Canyon Park, accessible only by rail. You have about 90 minutes to explore the Lookout Trail, up 300 steps to panoramic vistas over the canyon floor and winding tracks below. Or strike off on a walk to Bridal Veil Falls and Black Beaver Falls , where tumbling water cuts through forested valleys. This landscape inspired Canadian artists of the famed Group of Seven, and standing among these forests and waterways, it’s easy to see why their paintings celebrated the region.
On the return ride, the mood shifts. Coaches feel quieter; conversations soften as the wilderness stretches by. Rolling lakes, dense pine, and glimpses of small rivers create a sense of transition as you return to the city.
SATURDAY NIGHT: DINNER WITH A VIEW
Back in Sault Ste. Marie, the evening is meant for lingering. Choose a table by the water—View Restaurant + Bar offers seasonal dishes paired with river views. The pace here is intentional: a long meal, conversation stretching to match the light, and a gentle re-entry into city life after a day immersed in wilderness.
SUNDAY: CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE
Sunday gives you permission to follow your curiosity. For breakfast, start with a Benny poutine (now you’re in Canada!) at The Breakfast Pig, then head out for an active morning.
Cycle or walk segments of the John Rowswell Hub Trail, a paved loop connecting parks, neighborhoods and the waterfront.
Sink into the Lake Superior sand for a lazy beach day, with options for whatever mood strikes. Point Des Chênes at the mouth of the river beckons rock hunters and freighter watchers, or drive north to Batchewana Bay Provincial
Park for its warmer, shallow waters and long stretches of sand perfect for beach walks.
Don’t want to wander far? The Big Ben Tour Bus, a hopon, hop-off double-decker, carries you on an easy loop through major attractions in town, including the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, where vintage aircraft and fire-management history illustrate the region’s unique cultural footprint.
Or simply savor a slower pace: opt for a butter tart and a hot latte at The Queen’s Tarts, stroll Queen Street’s bou-
tique shops, or pause again on the boardwalk, listening to the river’s steady hum.
By the end of your weekend, Sault Ste. Marie isn’t a list of attractions. It’s the quiet moments between them: sunlight glinting on the river, the whisper of pine in the canyon, the clatter of a train on steel rails and the measured rhythm of a city set beside water. When you finally cross the International Bridge, the weekend lingers as the awareness of a pace worth keeping, long after you’ve left.
Saulttourism.com
Explore the North … Your Way!
Summer Up North is pure magic: Flickering fireflies, double-scoop cones, wet swimsuits hanging over the porch rail, driving with the windows down.
In this edition of Vacation! Northern Michigan our team dishes on memorable escapes and all the insider travel tips we tell our friends about. We wind through fruit and wine country, paddle quiet waterways, kick back in lively downtowns and savor a summer’s worth of scenic backroad expeditions through lake, dune and river country.
Travel the lighthouse-dotted coast from Ludington to the Straits. Catch a sunset over Lake Charlevoix or a plane to Beaver Island. Stroll through Fishtown. Hunt for rocks on the shores of the Upper Peninsula. The adventures are endless. Let's start mapping out your Up North escape ...
BY
PHOTO
DAVE WEIDNER
Nordhouse Dunes
- Planned for you -
Kayak the cliffs, stay in a unique glamping yurt, cruise Lake Superior... all in one simple, unforgettable trip!
• Guided Pictured Rocks kayak trip
• 3 nights unique glamping stay
• Dinner cruise around Grand Island
• Meals at the Duck Pond Eatery and Beer Garden
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10 | BEACHES
Consider this your go-to list for the North’s best sandy shores.
14 | WINE
A delicious tour of the varietals that make up this region's award-winning wines.
18
| THE HIKING CHECKLIST
Summer is here and nature is calling, loudly. These off-the-beaten-path hikes help you answer.
22 | TRAVERSE CITY
Sail the bay at sunset, spend a day exploring The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, relax at a rooftop bar and bike a fam-friendly trail with micro adventures along the way.
43 | BENZIE, MANISTEE & CADILLAC
Visit the revamped Ludington State Park, explore scenic ORV trails, set sail on the S.S. Badger and experience a classic drive-in movie theater
55
| CHARLEVOIX & CHAIN OF LAKES
Wander Grass River Natural area, cast a line in the Jordan River and explore Charlevoix's architectural beauties.
66
| GAYLORD & GRAYLING
Float the Au Sable, hike Pigeon River Country and dip a toe in the Inland Waterway.
70
| PETOSKEY & MACKINAC STRAITS
Stroll Petoskey on a history-lover's walking tour, cruise to Mackinac Island and shop the cutest harbor towns.
86
| LEELANAU
Do the Sleeping Bear Dunes, get Fishtown’s famous sandwiches and take a paddle down the Cedar River.
The Smart Playbook for Northern Michigan Road Trips
Real-world snack strategy for long drives, beach days and everything in between.
by CARA MCDONALD
Summer in NoMI is all go, go, go. Our sweetest season is packed with hikes, winery tours, scenic drives and beach outings, and every day brings a new adventure.
The trick to maximizing fun? Knowing where you can snag provisions whatever the day brings.
“We think of ourselves as the unsung heroes of the road trip,” says Kimberly Strode, marketing manager of truenorth stores, a convenience/fuel store based throughout the Midwest. Their business model, she says, focuses not just on the classics (yes, you can walk out with a frozen drink of enormous proportions) but also on leveled-up comfort food, quality snack options and seriously good fresh coffee.
“We’re all about the kind of snacks that scream ‘road trip,’ ” Strode adds. “My mom loved a good Snickers bar when we traveled, and when you’re on vacation, a little nostalgic treat can really set the tone.”
The formula is easy: make a few smart grabs, allow for one strategic indulgence. Here’s how it plays out in the wild.
1. THE FOGGY MORNING AFTER
You overdid it on local reds and now the day has arrived anyway.
Grab: Energy drink, banana, belVita breakfast bakes Why it works: Caffeine to reboot, electrolytes to recover, potassium to stabilize
Wildcard: A sausage breakfast sandwich if morale is low
2. BEACH DAY, NO COOLER
Lake Michigan doesn’t wait for your planning skills.
Grab: A portable cooler, bag of ice. Hit up the center aisles for snacks and lunch: cheese sticks, a turkey wrap sandwich, apples, plenty of water. Chuck in an extra can of sunscreen.
Why it works: Balanced, easy to tote, let’s you linger longer at the water’s edge
Wildcard: A slushy for the road
3. THE “THIS HIKE IS LONGER THAN IT LOOKED” SCENARIO
Sleeping Bear dunes will humble you.
Grab: Electrolyte water, string cheese, nuts or trail mix, meat snacks, protein bar.
Why it works: Salt, protein and carbs that don’t quit halfway up a dune
Why it works: Grazing fuel that won’t slow you down
Wildcard: Kettle chips you absolutely don’t share
5. CRANKY KIDS IN THE BACK SEAT
You are now managing a small, loud army.
Grab: String cheese, oranges, popcorn, trail mix with chocolate
Why it works: Familiar, snackable
Wildcard: One candy bar, divided with courtroom precision; a frozen drink if you’re desperate for compliance
6. FALL COLOR CRUISE
Windows down, nowhere urgent to be.
Grab: Hot coffee, pumpkin or sunflower seeds, apples, meat snacks
Why it works: Slow-burn snacks for a slow kind of day
Wildcard: Bottled fruit juice and a donut— mandatory, really
7. CONSTRUCTION TRAFFIC CRAWL
US-31, midsummer. Enough said.
Grab: Hot dog off the roller grill, meat snacks.
Why it works: Get comfortable, you’re going to be here awhile
Wildcard: trueoasis fountain pop if you dare—your nearest restroom may be behind you
8. IMPROMPTU PICNIC
You just found the most gorgeous overlook. Stay awhile.
Grab: Fried chicken from the hot bar, side of Jojo potatoes, single-serve hot dill pickles
Why it works: Classic Americana; a crowd favorite
Wildcard: A bottle of wine, paper cups
9. LATE-NIGHT PUSH HOME
This is where discipline usually collapses.
Grab: Coffee or a bigger-than-average energy drink, snack mix
Why it works: Keeps you alert with plenty of crunching, no sugar spike-and-crash
Wildcard: A favorite king-sized candy bar—you’ve earned it
“Ultimately we’ve worked to create a place that’s fast, friendly and clean,” says Strode. “The road is long. Our goal is to help you keep going.”
Your Beach, Your Way
Twenty-seven beaches.
Zero wrong choices.
From family-friendly stretches and dog-loving shores to rock-hunter havens, secret coves and hike-in hideaways, these nine types of Northern Michigan beaches capture every mood of an Up North day—sunrise to sunset, towel kingdom to tuckedaway treasure hunt.
by Matthew Dursum, Nicole Lane and Cara McDonald
Family-Friendly Hangs
What makes a great family beach? Start with gentle, sandy entries and water that warms by mid-July. Add bathrooms, picnic tables, maybe a playground and proximity to ice cream. A place where toddlers can dig, teens can toss a football and parents can exhale. On Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey State Park has wide swaths of sand, dune grass waving in the breeze and famously clear water that creates a postcard setting still blissfully accessible. The gradual drop-off makes swimming manageable for younger kids, and there’s plenty of room to claim your towel kingdom for the day. In Sleeping Bear Dunes country, Empire Beach delivers restrooms, easy parking and that quick nip to town for a burger or fudgesicle. Charlevoix’s Ferry Beach adds shady respites and playgrounds for littles, all just steps from downtown charm.
Rock-Hunting Treasure Troves
A great rock beach trades powdery sand for promise. You’re looking for texture underfoot—pebbles, cobble, wave-tossed bands of stone—and water clear enough to spot that prized fossil pattern. The magic happens where waves tumble, currents converge and patient walkers scan the shoreline at first light. Along Lake Superior’s wild edge, Agate Beach is a treasure hunt in motion, its restless surf turning up honeyed agates—and, after dark, glowing Yooperlites for those with a UV light and a sense of wonder. In Leland, Van’s Beach is beloved for Leland Blues and richly colored finds tucked among the stones. Back on Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey State Park rewards sharp eyes with Petoskey stones, fossil coral that feels like holding a small piece of Michigan history.
Trek to Tranquility
Some of the most rewarding beaches in Northern Michigan aren’t roadside stops—they’re earned one step at a time, and the hike in makes reaching those sparkling waters even sweeter. In Empire, lace up and follow winding wooded paths and crest rolling dunes before you reach North Bar Lake Beach. The short hike keeps the crowds thin and builds anticipation with every sandy step. Get in, the water’s warm. In Ludington, start at the Nurnberg Trailhead and hike 1.5 miles through sandy forest paths until Lake Michigan suddenly stretches out before you. Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness rewards your effort with 7,300 feet of secluded shoreline, rolling dunes and the kind of quiet you’ve been craving. Sprawl on your towel, plunge into waves and watch the sunset. Point your car south of Empire along M-22 and set your sights on White Pine Backcountry Campground, where the coast opens wide and invites you to spread out and truly unplug. Park, shoulder your gear and hike the 1.5-mile trail into camp. Once you arrive, follow the short path to the water’s edge, water's edge and claim your reward: miles of Platte Bay beach without another person or blanket in sight. Or, head up Old Mission Peninsula and park at the trailhead for Old Mission Point Park. Follow the Ridgewood Trail markers, then veer onto a narrow single-lane path that delivers you to a rocky shoreline. Strap on your snorkel and swim out to the Metropolis shipwreck, which sank in 1886 and now rests ten feet underwater.
Nordhouse Dunes PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER
Rally, Spike, Repeat
A great volleyball beach isn’t just about sand and sun—it’s about space to dive without hesitation, courts that keep the game rotating and the proximity of water to rinse off between sets. Grab your crew and head to West End Beach—or as locals call it, Volleyball Beach—in Traverse City, where players claim the sand all summer long at six sand courts. String up a hammock in the shade, rotate into a pickup game or join a city league. Between matches, cool off in the bay or relax under the trees. Up Harbor Springs way, Zorn Park Beach pairs calm Little Traverse Bay with an active volleyball scene. Dive for saves in the soft sand, then watch sailboats drift by. In Charlevoix, pick your backdrop: Lake Michigan at Michigan Beach Park or Lake Charlevoix at Ferry Beach Park. Both beaches draw volleyball lovers all season and offer restrooms and playgrounds for easy all-day hangs. After your final spike, rent a paddleboard at Ferry Beach or scour Michigan Beach for Petoskey stones. Either way, you’ll leave sandy, tired and planning a rematch.
Dog-Friendly Beaches
Most beaches are off-limits for pups, so you’ve gotta be strategic (and keep pooch leashed, per state law). The best spots offer elbow room and easy water access, a stretch of shoreline where paws can pound and tails can helicopter freely. Clear water helps. So does a welcoming vibe and enough space so that everyone—two- and fourlegged—can find their stride. In Harbor Springs, Zoll Street Beach is a wag-worthy favorite, with ample shoreline for fetch and refreshing swims on Little Traverse Bay. Petoskey’s Bayfront Park pairs scenic views with a long waterfront path perfect for leash-side rambles and splash breaks. And in Leland, North Street Beach offers a quieter stretch of sand and stone where sunset walks with your best friend feel like the very definition of Up North.
Sunset Dreamscapes
Stunning reds and soft violets wash across the evening sky, framing distant islands and crystal water. This isn’t a tropical postcard scene—it’s just another day at our west-facing beaches, many of which take beauty to new levels when the sun falls over the lake. Glen Haven Beach is one of them, with panoramic views of the dunes and Manitou Islands offshore, and water that turns kaleidoscopic at sunset. Farther south, Frankfort Public Beach pairs its iconic lighthouse with quiet dune scenery, while Manistee’s Magoon Creek Natural Area offers open water and a sense of seclusion, broken only by the distant freighters. To the north, the dunes and shrub-dotted outcrops at Charlevoix’s North Point Nature Preserve absorb the day’s last light, and at Petoskey State Park Beach, soft rays bounce across the water toward Harbor Springs and Petoskey, casting a final glow that feels almost otherworldly.
Lakeside Camping Adventures
Leelanau County's D.H. Day Campground and Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park Campground may draw the crowds, but there are plenty of stunning places Up North to fall asleep to the sound of waves. About a half hour south of Manistee, the Nordhouse Dunes stretch across 3,500 acres of wilderness, rolling from hardwood forest into dunes within the Huron-Manistee National Forest, where deer, bear and eagles roam one of the largest freshwater interdunal wetlands in North America. Access the area via the Lake Michigan Recreation Area trailhead for $5 per day to park and $50–$65 per night to camp at the Lake Michigan Recreation Area campground. At Ludington State Park Beach, campgrounds range from beachside nooks at the Pines Campground to hike-in sites at Jack Pine Campground, with 13 miles of trails and inland waters ideal for working up a sweat before plunging into Lake Michigan. Farther north, Wilderness State Park Campground in Carp Lake sits just 20 minutes from Mackinaw City and offers more than 20 miles of trails, secluded stretches of sand along Big Stone Bay and over 200 sites within an easy walk of the beach.
PHOTO BY ANGELA BROWN
Glen Haven Beach
Petoskey State Park
From Waves to Waffle Cones
Nothing says summer like brushing sand off your feet and heading for a cold, creamy cone as the lake breeze follows you into town. Spend the afternoon soaking in sunshine at Petoskey State Park, where Lake Michigan rolls in with cool, clear waves and wide sandy stretches. Afterward, head into downtown Petoskey and cool off with ice cream from Kilwins, headquartered in town. Order a hand-dipped cone, where generous scoops are stacked high, and stroll the historic downtown gaslight district. Plant your chair in the sand at Frankfort Beach, dive into bright blue water, then shake off and walk straight into downtown Frankfort. At The Cool Spot of Frankfort, step up to the walk-up window and order a massive single scoop piled high on a waffle cone. Try the Apple Crisp dusted with cinnamon or the Cow Tipping loaded with chocolate chunks and caramel swirls. You’ll move from glistening waves to sticky fingers in minutes.
Secluded Hideaways
Can you avoid the summer crowds and claim a quiet stretch of sand all to yourself? Absolutely. Between Traverse City and Elk Rapids you’ll find Maple Bay Natural Area—follow the wooded trail beneath a lush canopy before stepping onto the shore, then wander north toward Petobego Pond for stretches of sand few people reach. Farther north in Carp Lake, Sturgeon Bay Beach offers built-in seclusion, with views of the Sturgeon Bay Dunes and easy access to the North Country Trail. And while Leelanau County masses gather at Pyramid Point and Empire, those in the know hike to the Leelanau State Park Observation Platform, then settle along the dune grass–covered sands of Cat Head Bay—where peaceful waves may lure you into a long, happy nap.
Frankfort Public Beach
Maple Bay Natural Area
The Wines That Define Us
From crisp cool-climate classics to complex reds coming into their own, these are the bottles putting the North on the map.
by Matthew Dursum
PHOTOS BY DAVE WEIDNER
To the initiated, Northern Michigan means postcard-worthy beaches, endless waterways, farm-to-table cuisine, and, yes, the bottled poetry we call wine. Our state boasts five American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), three of them in Northern Michigan: the Leelanau Peninsula, Old Mission Peninsula and the newest addition, the Tip of the Mitt.
For decades the region has been zeroing in on what works and what doesn’t, with Riesling, chardonnay and pinot noir leading the pack in recent years. But now, thanks to our hardworking growers, winemaking talent and productive soil, we’re keeping pace with the big kids along the 45th parallel— Oregon, France, Italy and New Zealand.
The longer, hotter growing seasons brought on by climate change are helping our grapes develop more sweetness and complexity. Skilled winemakers are taking advantage, using classic varietals, obscure gems and bold, creative blends to create our finest wines to date.
As you sip your way through Northern Michigan’s wine country, look for these highlights and discover what makes our region shine.
Riesling
Riesling, along with chardonnay and merlot, was one of the first wine grapes Ed O’Keefe planted on the Old Mission Peninsula back in the 1970s. O’Keefe’s Chateau Grand Traverse became the first modern commercial winery there and cemented riesling as the state’s shining star.
Growers planted the German grape throughout the AVAs, creating an abundance of high-quality fruit for winemakers to work with. It’s now the most planted vine in the Leelanau and Old Mission AVAs and is responsible for some of the region’s highest-rated wines. Winemakers like Cornel Olivier (Bonobo), Lee Lutes (Black Star Farms) and the team at Verterra Winery are riesling pioneers, crafting dry, racy wines suited to food pairings and sweet versions meant for desserts or spicy foods.
Bottles to try:
Blaufränkisch
Blaufränkisch is one of Austria’s most renowned grapes, and it thrives up here, creating some of our boldest and most age-worthy dry reds. The best wines feature flavors of blackberry, black pepper, allspice and dark chocolate. High acidity, body and tannins make it perfect with steaks or hearty venison chili. Both wine nerds and casual drinkers are taking notice, and producers are gearing up to make even more.
Bottles to try:
Black Star Farms, Blaufränkisch (2024)
Shady Lane, Blaufränkisch (2021)
Left Foot Charley, Blaufränkisch Reserve (2021)
Bottles to try:
Pinot Noir
Spurred by Burgundy’s devoted following and the 2004 cult classic movie Sideways, no other grape has created so much buzz in our region. It thrives in our cool climate and sandy soils kissed by glacial limestone and clay. During the best years, winemakers turn our finest pinots into bouquets of raspberries, cherries, vanilla and flowers. With age, they develop complex notes of mushrooms and hints of tea and forest floor.
Some producers experiment with blanc de noirs (white from red), sparkling rosés and still rosés ready for summer lake days. Most aim for age-worthy Burgundian-style wines with balanced tannins, acidity and fruit. Find a good bottle and age it for a few years. You’ll taste Northern Michigan terroir at its finest.
This cold climate–loving grape is made for our region. In the right sandy soils and sun, it can be a beast to tame for growers. But with careful pruning and cultivation, it can be one of the most productive and unruly vines in our area—equal parts blessing and headache for farmers trying to contain its foliage.
The best gewürztraminers have unmistakable aromas of lychee, rose, ginger, honey and citrus blossom. In warmer years, the fruit ripens to maximum sweetness, giving winemakers full-bodied, age-worthy whites that are among the best in our region. While European wineries concentrate their efforts on dependable, one-varietal gewürztraminers, Northern Michigan’s mad scientist winemakers are putting it into blends and making sparklers that run the full range of dry to sweet styles.
Bottles to try:
Left Foot Charley, Gewürztraminer (2022)
Rove Winery, Gewürztraminer (2023)
Bel Lago, Late Harvest Gewürztraminer (2023)
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet franc is responsible for some of the world’s best wines—think Loire Valley heavy hitters, Argentine medal winners that are not malbec and that extra juicy little oomph in Bordeaux blends. Fortunately, this European gem grows to ripeness in our harsh climate and loves our sandy soils.
Northern Michigan versions are usually softer than their French and Argentine counterparts, yet still bold and complex, with flavors of red fruit, bell peppers, chili peppers and gravel. Pair with hard cheeses, red meat, winter stews or roasted vegetables.
Summer heat significantly affects the quality and ripeness of this grape. Standout vintages include 2016, 2021, 2022 and 2024.
Bottles to try:
Three Trees Vineyard, “Folk Singer” Cabernet Franc (2022, 2021)
2 Lads, Reserve Cabernet Franc (2020)
French Valley Vineyard, Cabernet Franc Reserve (2017)
Bel Lago, Cabernet Franc (2018)
Kerner
This German white is finding its renaissance on the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, producing low-bodied wines with bright acidity and soft minerality. Flavors hint at almonds, apricots and wildflowers. The wine has great food pairing potential, especially with garden salads, soft cheeses or fried foods.
Kerner is a new grape to our region with huge potential. Left Foot Charley Winery won Gold and Best in Class at Dan Berger’s International Wine Competition for its 2023 vintage. Other wineries are taking note and planting new rows.
Bottles to try:
Left Foot Charley, Kerner (2023) Good Harbor, Kerner (2023)
Grüner Veltliner
Austria’s signature grape, Grüner Veltliner, makes bright, mineral-driven wines built to cut through even the finest
Wiener-schnitzel. Northern Michigan’s cool temperatures and bright summer sun create peppery, herbaceous wines with pronounced aromas of gooseberry, starfruit, citrus and soft pea sprouts.
Michigan wine fans will probably be seeing more of these wines on the shelves, thanks to their versatility and award potential—Gilchrist Farm & Winery won Double Gold for theirs at the 2026 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
In Germany and Northern Italy, this white mutation of pinot noir produces simple, fruity wines with refreshing notes of peach, lemon zest, pear and soft minerality. Northern Michigan growers are finding success with pinot blanc as an alternative
PHOTO BY LYDIA MEJIA
to chardonnay. The wine is taking a starring role in some of the North’s best white blends, often paired with auxerrois, another up-and-coming white grape.
Bottles to try:
BOS Méthode Agricole (2023, pinot blanc and valvin muscat blend)
45 North Vineyard & Winery, Pinot Blanc (2022)
Left Foot Charley, Island View Pinot Blanc (2021)
Gamay
Beaujolais, France, is gamay’s homeland, but Northern Michigan may be its new home away from home. It produces racy, light-bodied reds bursting with black currant, raspberry, violets and earthy notes. Warm years can even yield hints of banana and plum.
Bottles to try:
Big Little Winery, Underdog (2021)
Chateau Grand Traverse, Gamay Noir Reserve (2016)
45 North Vineyard & Winery, Gamay Noir (2022)
Chardonnay
If pinot noir had an overachieving, multitalented classmate, it would be chardonnay. This white grape is responsible for some of the world’s best wines—think Chablis, Champagne, Margaret River—and the overly buttery and oaky styles wine nerds like to poke fun at.
Chardonnay is ubiquitous for several reasons: it’s versatile, dynamic and fit for blending. Plus, it grows very well Up North. For decades, it’s been one of our standout vines. Sure, kerner and grüner veltliner may be trending, but chardonnay is the old school fave that's far from retirement.
Bottles to try:
Three Trees Vineyard, Chardonnay (2023)
Black Star Farms, Arcturos Barrel Aged Chardonnay (2023)
These lesser-known hikes each offer a deeper kind of Northwoods experience—the sort where the loudest sound is wind in the trees and your boots on the trail.
by Nicole Lane and Cara McDonald
1. McCune Nature Preserve, Petoskey
Not far from Petoskey’s bustling waterfront unfolds McCune Nature Preserve, 168 acres of hardwood forest, cedar swamp and the quietly winding Minnehaha Creek. This 3.5-mile trail system offers gentle elevation changes and stretches of boardwalk that carry you through damp lowlands and sunlit ridges. The experience feels immersive without being strenuous—ideal for a contemplative morning hike or a shoulderseason ramble when the forest floor is soft with needles or lit gold in October. As a Little Traverse Bay Conservancy property, it remains blissfully under the radar compared to the region’s marquee parks. Get there: Just outside Petoskey, take East Mitchell Rd. east to Berger Rd. to access the preserve.
2. Sand Lakes Quiet Area, Williamsburg
Nestled within the Pere Marquette State Forest, this 7.6-mile trail system winds through oak and pine forest, rolling hills and several small inland lakes. The trails pull hikers far from crowded lakeshore overlooks and immerses them in birdsong with filtered light and quiet picnic clearings. The area connects with the North Country National Scenic Trail (NCT), a 4,800-mile-long trail stretching from Vermont to North Dakota. Step onto the path early in the morning and keep an eye out for deer and sandhill cranes.
Get there: From Traverse City, take M-72 east toward Williamsburg, turn onto Broomhead Rd. and follow signs to the Sand Lakes Quiet Area parking lot near Guernsey Lake State Forest Campground.
PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER
McCune Nature Preserve
3. Mason Tract Pathway, Grayling area
Just southeast of Grayling, the Mason Tract Pathway traces nearly nine miles through one of Northern Michigan’s most storied conservation landscapes. The 4,493-acre Mason Tract was gifted to the state with strict protections to preserve the wild character of the South Branch of the Au Sable River, and that sense of quiet reverence still defines the hike. The footpath winds through pine and hardwood forest, skirts open meadow and periodically meets the riverbank, where tannin-stained water slips past cedar and tag alder. It’s not flashy or heavily trafficked—and that’s precisely the point. This is a place for long stretches of solitude and the kind of unhurried wandering that reminds you why people fall in love with Up North in the first place.
Get there: From Grayling, take M-72 east and turn left onto Chase Bridge Road (County Road 519). Follow to the Chase Bridge access site on the South Branch of the Au Sable River; trailhead parking is located there.
4. Big Lake Preserve, Otsego County
Small in size, rich in atmosphere—Big Lake Preserve feels like a local secret tucked into the woods west of Gaylord. Protected by HeadWaters Land Conservancy, this modest preserve offers a gentle loop through hardwood forest and wetland edge. It’s the kind of place where you come to notice the details: the filtered light through maple leaves, the hush over the water, the crunch of leaves underfoot. Because it’s a conservancy property rather than a headline destination, you’re unlikely to share the trail with more than a handful of other hikers, even at peak fall color.
Get there: From I-75 in Gaylord, head east on M-32 for approximately 3 miles, then south on Big Lake Road South and east on Oley Lake Rd.; look for HeadWaters Land Conservancy signage marking the trailhead.
5. Elmer Johnston Nature Preserve, Harbor Springs area
A few bends inland from the Tunnel of Trees, Elmer Johnston Nature Preserve offers a quieter counterpoint to the scenic highway’s steady stream of traffic. This 220-acre Little Traverse Conservancy property rolls through mixed hardwood forest and meadow with roughly two miles of trail. In spring and summer, birdsong carries across open fields; in autumn, the canopy turns luminous. Even during busy tourism weekends in Harbor Springs, the preserve’s inland setting keeps it feeling tucked away and wonderfully unhurried—a place to wander without an agenda and let the landscape set the pace.
Get there: From Harbor Springs, take State Road nine miles to Robinson Rd., then west on Robinson and to Church Rd.; preserve is on the right.
6. Betsie Valley Trail, Benzie County
This 22-mile former railroad-turned-trail threads through Benzie County’s countryside, linking Frankfort, Elberta, Beulah and Thompsonville. Walkers
and cyclists move through woodlands, wetlands and lake scenery, where red-winged blackbirds flash across cattails. The trail includes six paved miles between Frankfort and Beulah, making it ideal for biking into charming downtowns with waterfront views and ice cream shops.
Get there: Various trailheads line the route. We suggest driving to the Frankfort trailhead for the parking lot on Waterfront Dr. or the parking lot area in Elberta on M-22 and Lake St.
7. Manistee River Trail, Mesick
The Manistee River Trail (MRT) links with the NCT to form a 23-mile loop that backpackers often hike over two to three days, camping for free beneath the pines. The trail hugs the rolling banks of the Big Manistee River with bluff-top water views. Anglers wade in for fly fishing, hikers pause to photograph wood ducks and adventurers snag selfies on the Little Mac suspension bridge. Located in the Manistee National Forest, the trail is home to waterfalls tumbling nearby and river views that greet you at every turn. The MRT traces 10.5 miles along the east side of the river, and the NCT covers the west side.
Get there: From Manistee, head into the Huron-Manistee National Forest toward Red Bridge (south) or Seaton Creek (north).
8. Ransom Lake Natural Area, Lake Ann
This quiet, short 2.5-mile trail circles Ransom Lake through shaded woods with a calm shoreline vista. The trail includes a small bridge, a fishing dock and benches for bird watching or easy lingering. The terrain is mostly flat, making it an easy walk, though uneven ground and roots require sturdy footwear. Scan the treetops for bald eagles, look down for fox tracks and gaze over the water for a beaver’s rippling wake.
Get there: Take Lake Ann Rd. west from Traverse City to the trailhead parking area; trails are well-marked around the lake.
9. Houdek Dunes Natural Area, Leland
Between Lake Michigan and the inland quiet of northern Leelanau County, Houdek Dunes Natural Area protects more than 300 acres of forest, wetlands and freshwater dunes. A 2.5-mile loop climbs gently through maple and beech before opening onto high, sandy bluffs above Lake Michigan. Unlike busier dune climbs farther south, this preserve is hushed and untamed. Wind moves through the grass, and waves roll below.
Get there: From Leland, head north on M-22 for three miles. Turn west onto Houdek Rd. and follow it to a small parking area; the trailhead starts just beyond the gate. 1 2 3
BAY MILLS
DESTINATION BAY MILLS
WHERE NATURE, CULTURE, AND ADVENTURE MEET WHERE NATURE, CULTURE, AND ADVENTURE MEET
Tucked along the shores of Lake Superior, Bay Mills, Michigan is where adventure meets relaxation in the best way. From paddling along the coastline and wandering lush forest trails to chasing the Northern Lights and joining local events, there’s always something unforgettable waiting to be discovered. Rooted in rich Native culture and surrounded by natural beauty, Bay Mills is the perfect place to unwind, explore, and experience the magic of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Family Fun Night at Farmer’s Market - September 10th
BRIMLEY BAY MILLS FARMERS MARKET THURSDAYS July 9 - October 29
insider’s list the up north
Sure, you’ll hit the classics—but if you want to explore like a local, here’s your shortcut to Traverse City’s coolest coffee corners, hidden trails and feel-good finds.
by Nicole Lane
On bustling Front Street, hip-yet-homey Outpost Traverse City is a coffee hang with baked goods that almost steal the spotlight: chocolate babka, raspberry-lemon curd danish, chewy-sweet pignoli cookies and an offering of baguettes and loaves to take with you.
Get your flow on at Yen Yoga & Fitness with a drop-in class (we love the Lavender Chill restorative class). The boutique studio, tucked inside the Delamar Hotel, backs up to Sunset Park and overlooks the bay. Pro tip: Check the calendar for free community classes.
Feeling decision fatigue in wine country? Let the experts at Lake District Wine Co. guide your glass. This thoughtfully curated shop stocks a smart mix of still and sparkling wines from around the globe and right here in our backyard.
Follow the red light and stairs down to Eugene’s Record Co-op for an alternative downtown escape. Dig through crates of vinyl at this independent store below The Coin Slot, where you’ll find incredibly priced ska, punk, hardcore albums, plus everything in between.
Escape without ever leaving town at the Brown Bridge Quiet Area
Skip the long drives and the crowded trailheads—this 1,300-acre sanctuary sits right in Traverse City, stretching along the winding Boardman River. Choose from a network of loops that weave through hardwood forest, open meadows and wooden boardwalks over wetlands.
Grab a full set of discs at Tilley’s Party Store, then head to Hickory Hills to play a round of disc golf. Whether you’re aiming for a perfect ace or just goofing off with your friends, this course offers fun at every skill level.
Northport • Traverse City • Interlochen
2140
Chelsea Ln, Traverse City, MI
$675,000 • MLS 1942443
• 4 bed, 3 bath condo in a quiet, wooded setting
• Open main floor with primary suite & 2-car garage
• Finished lower level with 2 bedrooms & family room
• Wine cellar space & ample storage
• Community clubhouse for gatherings
• Direct access to Mitchell Creek Trail
• Close to downtown Traverse City, shopping & hospital
Ann is one of the best agents I have worked with in over fifty years and six states. She listens actively and constantly adapts and adjusts her offerings based on our most recent reactions and discussions. She is incredibly patient as our targets have changed constantly from location to size to housing type. Through it all she is cheerful and friendly and always available regardless of the time of day or day of the week. She knows the market and has extensive contacts throughout the Traverse City area housing community. Her contacts are amazing and she is able to get comparable sales, inspection information, contractor estimates, county maps and any other request we made. I highly recommend Ann and am sure we will be her client again in the near future.
Small Towns to Love
Your Traverse City vacation should include an afternoon spent exploring one of the area’s smaller communities, each one with its own under-the-radar gems. Here’s a taste of what you’ll find.
by Nicole Lane
ACME & WILLIAMSBURG
Williamsburg boasts plenty of adventures for nature lovers, like Maple Bay Natural Area and Sand Lakes Quiet Area. In Acme, launch kayaks, swim or walk the beach at the universally accessible Acme Bayside Park—there are also restrooms, picnic tables, grills and play equipment. Then drive inland to the GT Butterfly House & Bug Zoo for some family fun or experience a horse show at Flintfield Horse Park. Don’t Miss: For a memorable meal at sunset, make reservations at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, perched on the 16th floor of Grand Traverse Resort.
FIFE LAKE
This charming village is brimming with outdoor recreation. The 21-mile Fife Lake Loop, a part of the iconic North Country Trail, is perfect for weekend backpackers with two state forest campgrounds along the route. Anglers can fish for bass, pike and perch in Fife Lake or head to the Manistee River for trout fishing. History lovers should visit the remote Fife Lake Cemetery to see the resting places of the area’s first settlers. Don’t Miss: Grab a cone at the pink-striped bite-sized building that is Mad Swirlz Ice Cream and Eatz. We suggest Sicilian orange sorbet for the little ones and the JackedUp Tennessee Toffee with whiskey sweet sauce for an adult sweet treat.
Downtown Traverse City
to 1842 in the Presbyterian Mission House built by Rev. Peter Dougherty, Chief Agosa and the Odawa and Ojibwe Tribes. Explore the restored structures, demonstration garden and 15 acres of trails featuring 175 year old American chestnut trees. ADA accessible first floor. Interior restroom. Come walk where history comes alive. Docent led tours Wednesdays through Saturdays.
INTERLOCHEN
Interlochen is celebrated for its world-class art institution: Interlochen Center for the Arts. But this artistic haven also boasts endless scenic beauty. Rent a cabin or tent (or bring your own) at Interlochen State Park. Green and Duck lakes are popular for swimming and fishing; find kayak rentals at Simple Adventures in the park’s beach house. Nearby, the 6-mile Lost Lake Pathway is a favorite for hiking and mountain biking (its level terrain is easy enough for novice riders). Don’t Miss: The summer concert series, where national headliners play to summer crowds at an outdoor pavilion overlooking Green Lake.
KINGSLEY
This family-friendly community is home to the always-fun Village Splash Pad and playground at Brownson Memorial Park. Grab a seat outdoors at Kingsley Local Brewing or head to the Kingsley Inn for live music every Thursday and their famous Irish nachos. Don’t Miss: For an iconic hike with gorgeous views of the Manistee River—the High Rollaway, about 20 minutes south of town.
OLD MISSION PENINSULA
Spend an entire afternoon cruising M-37, stopping at the many farm stands along the way. Pick a bouquet at Old Mission Flowers and soak up views of both East and West bays. Then swing into Old Mission General Store for picnic provisions on your way up to Mission Point Lighthouse. Don’t Miss: Pop into Right Bower Kitchen & Coffee for breakfast, lunch or after-hours snacks. Snuggle up by the fireplace or slide into a booth with cocktail in hand.
Mission Point Lighthouse
Getaway Sparkle
There’s something about Northern Michigan that makes a moment feel bigger. To help the memories stick, we’ve got inspiration for keepsakes you’ll reach for long after the suitcase is unpacked.
by LISA BLAKE
Each year, thousands of Traverse City visitors pass through the stoic white pillars that frame Korner Gem’s entryway. The warm fern green exterior opens up to a sparkling showroom housing the hybrid jewelry store, crystal museum and talented custom jeweler.
Saws, cutters and grinders buzz, polishing and curating oneof-a-kind pieces with stories to tell. Owner and master lapidarist Kevin Gauthier chops the top off a 1950s cocktail ring, an heirloom passed from aunt to niece, melting it down and creating a flat frame to showcase the updated diamond starburst snowflake pattern. Gauthier creates a starry night scene in a Leland Blue stone plucked from Lake Michigan, diamond stars swirling around a pearl full moon. Ever so carefully, he carves an owl into spotted ocean jasper laid on top of a local Petoskey stone.
Custom jewelry like Gauthier’s pairs imagination with beauty and meaning—each one carries stories that commemorate time well spent in Northern Michigan. Here’s how to capture a moment:
1. THE SURPRISE PROPOSAL
The Story: A quiet stretch of shoreline. Shoes in hand. The question you’ve been carrying for months. Pair it with a custom engagement ring, designed ahead of time, then revealed at golden hour. Gauthier has seen this story unfold many times.
The Piece: “One guy had me cut a Petoskey stone in half like a hamburger bun. I put a hinge on the stone on the inside, hollowed it out for a ring to be hidden inside and he hid it on the beach, where the couple had originally found that stone,” Gauthier says. “She found it and opened it up and there’s the diamond engagement ring inside the beach stone, just sitting there in the sand on the beach they love.”
2. THE ANNIVERSARY ESCAPE
The Story: No dinner reservations, no rush. Just the two of you and a bottle of local red. Mark the milestone with stackable anniversary bands or a pendant engraved with coordinates from your favorite overlook.
The Piece: Korner Gem custom jewelers have fond memories of splitting a special locally found agate down the center for a couple who loves sea kayaking together, creating a custom anniversary ring for each of them, forever reminding them of their Isle Royale paddles.
3. THE GIRLS’ WEEKEND
The Story: Matching pajamas, shared playlists, late-night laughs. Think delicate necklaces—one for each friend—or a charm that nods to the bay, chosen together and worn home as a badge of the weekend.
The Piece: With 22 wineries expanding north of the shop, Korner Gem welcomes busloads of bubbling women’s weekend wine tours. Gauthier recalls slicing and polishing a found pink and white granite stone into four pieces, drilling a hole in each stone and creating necklaces the best friends wore out of the store. “I told them, ‘wear that pendant each time you go on a girls’ weekend,’” he says. “‘Come back together just like the stone comes back together to make a whole.’”
4. THE FAMILY REUNION
The Story: Three generations under one roof. Capture it with a custom family ring or a simple bracelet engraved with a shared last name, the family motto, and the year everyone made it back.
The Piece: It’s not uncommon for families to reconnect at the lake cottage after a grandparent has passed on. For a special memorial keepsake, Korner Gem takes jewelry left earthside and redesigns it into a piece that speaks to each family member. Diamonds from a grandmother’s ring become diamond earrings for the daughters, a keychain for the father, and a beautiful pendant for mom.
5. THE “JUST BECAUSE WE’RE HERE” TRIP
The Story: No milestone. No big announcement. Just a good day in a beautiful place. Choose a locally crafted piece—something subtle, timeless—that becomes your quiet reminder: You were here and it mattered.
The Piece: This is where Korner Gem’s large, readily available inventory of charm pendants comes in clutch. Lighthouses, sailboats, anchors and flipflops with Petoskey and Leland Blue stones set into them are collected and exchanged over the years.
Outdoor Dining: Our Patio Season Picks
Here comes the sun, and patio season.
by Nicole Lane
THE BURROW, TRAVERSE CITY
Step into the covered patio at The Burrow and soak up the relaxed vibe with incredible eats. Kick off your morning with the crab cake Benedict or swing by after a beach day for the ultimate girl dinner of Caesar salad and malted French fries. Make it boozy with a Squirtsky on tap made with fresh-pressed grapefruit juice, Tito’s vodka, grapefruit vodka, lime and soda.
OAKY’S TAVERN, INTERLOCHEN
Inspired by smokehouse tastes, American fare and big portions, Oaky’s is the ultimate comfort food go-to. Their outdoor patio is a favorite with long tables, big umbrellas and a casual hang. Go big with the sirloin steak, BBQ and their famous wings. Expect it to be busy; this food feeds the soul.
CHUBBY UNICORN, TRAVERSE CITY
Claim a picnic table on this small grassy patio and give yourself a well-earned shopping break on Front Street Dig into the Dilly Dally Salad with Parmesan herb ranch. But let’s be honest, the sandwiches steal the show. Order the Thick Little Hottie, where a ciabatta baguette holds together pastrami, turkey, capicola, sharp cheddar, Gorgonzola, peppadew peppers, jalapeños, habanero drizzle and roasted garlic aioli.
ARTISAN, TRAVERSE CITY
Situated in the elegant Delamar Hotel on the bay, Artisan has one of the most atmospheric patios in town. Framed by colorful flowers and greenery, this outdoor area feels relaxed and refined. The kitchen highlights seasonal Northern Michigan ingredients—think beautifully composed small plates and Great Lakes fish.
FRENCHIES FAMOUS
Inside, Frenchies Famous wraps you in a cozy, blinkand-you’ll-miss-it charm. But wander out back and the patio steals the spotlight. Settle in with your massive pastrami sandwich in hand, keep a napkin ready (absolutely yes to the extra coleslaw) and slow down with each bite. It’s the kind of tucked-away patio that feels like insider knowledge, but too good not to share.
LOCO BOYS BREWING COMPANY, TRAVERSE CITY
Loco Boys Brewing Company brings bright flavor—bison chorizo flautas, barbacoa tacos and churros—with a laid-back energy on their outdoor patio. The space fills with friends sharing pints under the sun, the easy buzz of downtown just steps away.
link.mynorth.com/TraverseEats
Inspired by pre-prohibition bars, Low Bar is the perfect romantic hideaway. There’s a speakeasy vibe—no glaring sign, it’s in a basement and outfitted with glowing chandeliers. Favorites include the Poinsettia Punch, Low Bar Punch, and Death in the Afternoon for a taste of absinthe.
Play on the Bay
Chase golden hour and glassy turquoise water as you paddle, sail or kayak yourself across the bay.
by Nicole Lane
Paddle Into Calm Water
Rent a paddleboard at Paddle TC, located directly on the beach at Clinch Park Marina, and watch the sunset while floating on the bay. Options range from hourly rentals to lessons, and start at $30. Head to East Bay with a launch point at Traverse City State Park Beach. Afterward, walk from sand to ice cream and get a cone from Sugar Buzz Ice Cream Truck. For those seeking quiet, drive up to Williamsburg and set your sights on Deepwater Point, a 17-acre natural area. Breathe in the air and face the rustic shoreline and turquoise water—you’ve made it to peak Up North life.
Set Sail at Sunset
Set out on the Manitou with The Traverse Tall Ship Company, a replica of an 1800s cargo schooner. The 114-foot vessel gives you a taste of what it was like to sail on our lakes 150 years ago. Listen to the sails flap in the wind, take a turn at the helm and watch the sun kiss the water. Or book a ride on Nauti-Cat, a catamaran through Nauti-Cat Cruises that slices through the water with ease. There’s a cash bar on board; bring your own cheese and crackers. A lesser-known cruise is Traverse City’s largest private sailing yacht, Althea, a two-masted yawl that’s moored at Discovery Pier on West Bay.
Explore by Power Boat
Taking on Old Mission Peninsula by power boat feels like discovering Northern Michigan from the most cinematic angle. Launch from Duncan L. Clinch Marina or Bowers Harbor Boat Launch and cruise north along the shoreline, where clear water reveals what’s underneath. Head north toward Power Island for a swim in impossibly blue water. Round the tip of the peninsula to admire the historic Old Mission Point Lighthouse, then head south to the Metropolis shipwreck and snorkel above her watery resting place. No boat? Rent one for the day from TC Watersports or Elmwood Marina.
Glide in Your Kayak
Looking for a laid-back activity that doesn’t require a full day? Rent your kayak from The River Outfitters for $100 a day, and they’ll deliver it straight to Hull Park on Boardman Lake. It’s not a strenuous paddle, about 30 minutes, depending on wind and arm strength. For an easy in-town paddle, kayak the edge of the swim area on Grand Traverse Bay, heading east just a short stretch. Tip: Check out Kayak Bike & Brew for a four-hour guided pedalpaddle-and-pour experience where you’ll bike on the TART bike trails, paddle through the Boardman River and stop at craft breweries along the river.
Hit the Trails
Wander through forested paths, meadow loops and river-hugging trails.
by Nicole Lane
Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area
Get ready to roam at the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area, a network of nine trails that wind and bend through 480 acres of preserved parkland laced with wetlands, meadows and hardwood forests. Don’t miss the magical Traverse City Fairy Trails accessed via Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park. The trails are short and family-friendly—perfect for little adventurers with big energy. For a longer hike, take the Garfield Trail and Old Orchard Loop for a 1.7-mile leisurely wander through open meadowland, with a slight incline. Keep your eyes peeled for the legendary Hippie Tree and soak in the freespirited atmosphere.
Reffitt Nature Preserve
For a peaceful, under-the-radar escape, head to Reffitt Nature Preserve for a quiet escape in the heart of Traverse City. Take the boardwalk loop for a 1.6-mile stroll through flower-filled wetlands and wide-open skies. Search for purple fringed orchids, northern blue irises and listen for American toads. It’s quiet, calming and beautifully wild.
Pelizzari Natural Area
Just north of Traverse City, this 3.2-mile trail system feels like stepping back in time. Once home to farmland and orchards, the land now invites
hikers to meander through upland forests and beneath towering hemlocks. It’s a gentle reminder of what Northern Michigan looked like before neighborhoods and developments dotted the landscape—a peaceful, back-to-basics kind of hike.
Silver Lake Recreation Area
This 84-acre park blends play and nature. On one side, you’ll find amenities like pavilions, grills, tennis and basketball courts, plus a large grassy area. On the quieter west half, discover a bluff overlooking Silver Lake, mixed forests and tranquil Hidden Lake. Take the easy 0.9-mile Hidden Lake loop or wander the natural trails with boardwalk sections and moderate elevation. It’s an ideal mix of activity and serenity—come for the hike, stay for the hot dogs on the grill.
Boardman Valley Nature Preserve
Follow the gentle flow of the Boardman River along this scenic 7-mile single-track trail connecting Mayfield Pond Park to the North Country Trail. Cross wooden bridges, stroll past quiet lakes and wind through lush forest alive with birds and wildlife. Walk alongside the bubbling riverbank, breathe in the cool air and let the shade of trees wrap around you. Retreat to this trail and experience pure Up North magic.
Boardman River Trail
Front Street Shopping Spree
Starting east to west—shop till you drop in this historic downtown.
by Nicole Lane
The Icons
Traverse City’s downtown stretch brims with historic storefronts—many of them among the first to line Front Street. Step into Nolan’s Cigar Bar, which began selling pipes and tobacco in 1978 before officially opening its bar in 2015. Settle in for a legal indoor smoke with a drink. Wander the stacked levels of Horizon Books, a downtown and gathering spot since 1961, tucked inside the former J.C. Penny building, where neighbors and visitors browse, linger and connect. Pop into Toy Harbor, delighting kids since 1984 with interactive games, puzzles and imaginative toys (yes, they’ll wrap your gifts for free). Photographers still trust The Camera Shop, serving the community since 1939 with repairs, prints, restoration and top-tier gear. Slide your feet into something timeless at Golden Shoes, a family-owned business that began in 1883 as Fredrich’s Shoes before rebranding in 1988—today stocking favorites like Blundstones, Uggs and Birkenstocks. Step through the doors of Vortruba Leather Goods, opened in downtown in 1874 and recognized as the nation’s oldest continuously
run travel goods store. Round out your stroll at Boyne Country Sports, part of the Boyne legacy that began in 1947, where the outdoor shop (est. 1979) outfits adventurers in Patagonia, The North Face and Burton.
Flavor of Front Street
While Front Street overflows with restaurants, carve out time to stock up on gourmet finds. Within one delicious block, five specialty shops tempt food lovers with oils, spices and sweet treats. Start your artisanal crawl at American Spoon, a staple since 1982. Scoop up jars of fruit preserves, nut butters, salsas, relishes and grilling sauces—then grab the peach cherry salsa or their rich chocolate fudge sauce before you go. Step into Peppercorn of Traverse City and browse floor-to-ceiling kitchen gadgets you didn’t know you needed. Snag kitchen towels, cutting boards, popcorn salt and fresh jams. Cross Cass Street and dive into Cherry Republic, where hundreds of cherry-based products—from chocolate-covered cherries, BBQ sauce, salsas and cherry wine—a ruby red tribute to NoMI’s favorite
fruit. Head to the north side of Front St. and breathe in bold aromas at Traverse City Spice & Tea Merchants. Sprinkle zinfandel chai sea salt over red meat, dust fish with blood orange pepper or scoop up loose-leaf teas for your next night in. Finish at Fustini’s, where you can sample olive oils and vinegar infused with natural flavorings like Meyer lemon, rosemary, garlic and so much more. Dip, taste and delight in what you’ll make for tonight’s dinner.
New Stores on the Block
And alongside the longtime classics, a fresh wave of newcomers has stepped onto the scene. In just the last five years, Front Street has welcomed a stylish lineup of new shops worth ducking into. Browse cozy-chic staples at Serendipity, which opened in late 2025. Wrap yourself in soft layers and lean into the effortless hygge vibe. Step into l.a. Cool, opened in 2021, and sift through racks of curated luxury essentials and bold statement pieces for vacation or everyday life. Pop into slip. vintage, which debuted its brick-and-mortar in 2021 inside the Front Row Centre building. Hunt for buttery leather skirts, perfectly worn ‘80s sweaters and trinkets crafted by local artists. Then wander around the corner to Intimi on Union Street Since opening in 2024, the boutique has created a welcoming space for inclusive, gender-affirming bra fittings—while also hosting book clubs, art openings and community gatherings.
insider’s list the up north
Where to wander, eat and unwind.
by Nicole Lane
Head to Clam Lake Canal—a.k.a. the Cadillac Canal—for a glimpse into the region’s history. The logging-era bridge links Cadillac and Mitchell lakes and still stands as a working relic. Continue on foot to Mitchell State Park and wander the Heritage Natural Trail
Browse the boutiques and eateries at The Port in Ludington. Stop by House & Harbor for a Lake House Candle scented with driftwood and soft green notes. Swing into The Hangar to refresh your wardrobe with a new floral dress or canvas tote bag, then explore Instrumental Music and Sound to spark a new hobby—guitar, bass, drums, anyone?
Spend the weekend camping at Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area, a hike-in-only escape spanning 3,500 acres and four miles of untouched Lake Michigan shoreline. Link the Arrowhead Trail and Ridge Trail for a 6.5-mile-long trek through wooded dunes, open beaches and sweeping ridge-top views of Lake Michigan.
Pump the brakes for Miller’s Northwood Market on M-22 in Bear Lake for fresh fruits and veggies. Don’t leave without sampling something from their popular Pierport Farms line of jams, jellies and baked goods.
Catch a show at the Ramsdell Theatre in Manistee, a Victorian landmark built in 1903. Summer events include live orchestras, a Taylor Swift impersonator and live yacht rock.
Raise a glass at Five Shores Brewing in Beulah and order a pretzel the size of your head. Set inside a historical Quonset building, the brewery offers expansive indoor space and plenty of outdoor seating—easy-going thirdcoast vibes included.
Small Towns to Love
13 relaxed day trips, with beach picks, scenic hikes and downtown discoveries.
by Nicole Lane
ARCADIA
Tucked along Lake Michigan, this town is meant for beach days, and Sunset Station Beach at the end of Lake Street is the place to go. On M-22, pull over at Arcadia Overlook, the highest viewing area on the shoreline, and save time for a hike on the universally accessible Overlook Trail at Arcadia Dunes. Don’t Miss: Escape to Green Point Dunes Nature Preserve for less-traveled trails through forests and dunes.
BEAR LAKE
First, breakfast at Lakeside Café: order the Hippie, a three-egg omelet with spinach, mushrooms, onions, bacon and feta cheese with a side of funnel cake fries to cancel out the healthy. Book a room at the retro Bear Lake Motel. Expect 1960s-bathroom tiles, a pool and various community events like wellness classes and free portrait sessions. Grab a Bear Lake t-shirt at Maggie’s and head to Wee Bee Jammin’ for locally sourced maple syrup and jams made on site. Don’t Miss: Bear Lake Days is an annual summer event that takes place the second weekend in July. Expect food trucks, a pig roast, horse and wagon rides, an organized bike ride and fireworks.
KALEVA
Sweet, small Kaleva is rich with Finnish history and heritage. Blink, and you’ll miss the stone sauna relics that still sit in backyards. Head to the Bottle House Museum, a 1941 home built from 60,000 recycled glass bottles and houses Finnish-American history inside. Visit Northern Natural Cider House & Winery for USDA Certified Organic hard cider, pizza and plenty of outdoor seating with firepits. Order a sourdough loaf from Loaves of Love by Liebe Schrock for a Thursday or Friday pickup. Don’t miss: Walk along the Kaleva Centennial Sculpture Walkway for gardens and sculptures like the 18-foot grasshopper created from discarded metal parts.
BENZONIA
Brake for coffee, muffins and log cabin vibes at Keep on Grinding Coffee House. You’ll need the energy to challenge the fam at Crystal Falls Mini Golf. Don’t Miss: The studio and shop of Gwen Frostic, one of America’s foremost nature-inspired artists, is listed on The National Register of Historic Places.
BEULAH
The laidback Five Shores Brewing, a boutique-filled shopping district and a darling beach on Crystal make this a town a destination. Play a round of 18 holes at Crystal Lake Golf Course with sweeping views of the lake, then grab dinner at Ursa Major afterward. Don’t Miss: Music in the Street kicks off in late June on Thursday evenings, where attendees bring their own lawn chairs and sway to local music.
CADILLAC
Mitchell State Park is a favorite for campers—reserve the Loon Cabin on Lake Cadillac. The paved, 92-mile Fred Meijer White Pine Trail connects Cadillac to Comstock Park. Watch how pasties are made at Mr. Fosie’s Pasties—and then order one of each flavor. Downtown, get your fill at Primos BBQ for Texas-style smoky chicken and mouthwatering brisket. Don’t Miss: Take your little to the Cadillac Sound Garden, an outdoor space filled with musical instruments for kids and families.
ELBERTA
Elberta Beach, at the end of Bye Street, is a best-kept secret with an undeveloped and less busy shoreline. There’s a bountiful farmers market on Thursdays at Penfold Park, and access to the 22-mile Betsie Valley Trail. Cruise M-22 and tune in to WUWU 100.1, launched by the Elberta Labor Heritage Center for lovers of jazz, oldies and folk—plus news around Benzie
PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER
County. Don’t Miss: The Cabbage Shed, a rollicking pub with a waterfront patio and an impressive Irish whiskey collection—99 bottles on the wall. Whisky Advocate voted it one of five standout bars for Irish whiskey in the U.S.
FRANKFORT
This harbor town has the hopping Stormcloud Brewing Company, cozy Bella’s Café, collections of new novels at The Bookstore, an avid surfing community and the historic Point Betsie Lighthouse. Don’t Miss: The Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts has rotating exhibitions, classes, workshops and live music. Admission is free. The Coastal Caravan Art Fair takes place on Art Center grounds on July 25 this year.
HONOR
Tucked near secluded sandy beaches in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Honor is the ideal basecamp for adventure. Fuel up with a fire honey latte at Weldon Coffee, paddle the Platte River (rentals at Honor Trading Post and Riverside Canoes) and reward yourself with succulent BBQ at Jim’s Joint. Don’t Miss: A quick (but mighty) sandwich like the Fitzgerald or Morazan at Shipwreck Café where post-hike portions come gloriously oversized.
LAKE ANN
Set on the shore of lovely Lake Ann, find an old-fashioned grocery store, the rocking Lake Ann Brewing Company (with a fab pizza place next door, The Stone Oven) and a kid-friendly beach at Almira Township Lakefront Park. Ransom Lake Natural Area has barrier-free parking and restrooms and a universally accessible trail. Don’t Miss: The Red Door Coffee House’s sweet vibe, Higher Grounds coffee and breakfast sammie to go.
LUDINGTON
The car ferry S.S. Badger calls this harbor town home—hop it to Wisconsin, but come back to Ludington for the beaches, concerts in the park, Victorian-era shopping district and two lighthouses. Visit Historic White Pine Village to see how pioneers lived in the 19th and 20th centuries. On the way out, stop by dog-friendly Buttersville Beach, a quiet escape off the beaten path. Don’t Miss: Pure Ludington Sunset Beach Bonfires on the last Thursday of June, July and August.
MANISTEE
It’s all things Victorian here, from history tours through this town’s lumberera architecture. Shop the many boutiques on River Street, Wellnested for home décor delights and take on the two floors of vintage at Maryann’s Antiques in search of vintage treasure. Dive into Lake Michigan at Orchard Beach State Park and sip craft brews at North Channel Brewing Co. and Third Life Brewing. Don’t Miss: Manistee National Forest Festival (July 1-5), where fireworks, a carnival and parades celebrate small town homecomings.
ONEKAMA
This slow-mo coastal town has access to both Lake Michigan and Portage Lake. Catch an outdoor concert in the park on Monday evenings June 23 through August 11, and nose around for cool gifts at MacBeth & Co. Don’t Miss: The Glenwood is famous for its Key lime pie. Tables on the front porch are coveted.
THOMPSONVILLE
Crystal Mountain, the hub of this rural township, is a top destination for snow sports and summer fun, including the Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide. Off-campus, check out Geno’s Sports Bar. Book a stay at Glamp Michigan for a romantic night in a mirror tiny-home with a private sauna and hot tub under the pines. Don’t Miss: Iron Fish Distillery is Michigan’s first farmbased distillery; book a tour.
Cadillac
PHOTO BY SHELBY LAVICTOR
Frankfort
Outdoor Dining: Our Patio Season Picks
Here’s your go-to list.
by Nicole Lane
ROADHOUSE MEXICAN
BAR & GRILL, BENZONIA
A local favorite for Mexican-inspired cuisine; try the steak fajitas or the Cabo salmon with peach salsa, and don’t skip the freshly made chips and guac. The margs stand out, ranging from the classic with lime to flavors like prickly pear cactus juice and passion fruit purée. Grab a seat in the backyard cantina and settle in; one round will easily turn into two.
THE SANDBOX, LUDINGTON
The Sandbox feels like island time. With two dining options at Stearns Park, expect Adirondack seating in the sand, string lights and beach games. The menu: craft sliders, hand-dipped ice cream and towering milkshakes with creative toppings. North Beach features grab ’n’ go bites like pressed paninis and hot pretzels.
BIRCH & MAPLE, FRANKFORT
This Frankfort spot crafts creative cocktails and has a big-city feel, plus a scenic patio that overlooks Betsie Bay. Try the English salmon brunch with whipped cream cheese or the smashburger with a secret sauce on a brioche bun. Ride the 18-mile Bestie Valley Trailway
post-lunch or simply sprawl in the grass under the sun at Open Space Park.
MAYFAIR BURGER BAR, ELBERTA
Run by the creators of Birch & Maple and Dos Árboles in Frankfort, expect delicious eats at this casual burger spot. Choose between a single or double patty and go for the Fun Guy Burger with mushroom, Swiss, onion ring, and Luxford saloon sauce. Dusted fries in a basket come with options like honey, sweet and salty, truffle parm, jalapeño garlic, and malt and salt.
THE THISTLE, THOMPSONSVILLE
Just because ski season is over doesn’t mean you can’t visit Crystal Mountain. The Scottish-themed décor is cozy inside and chic outside, with seats fit for a posh tea party under a blue sky. Think: laid-back fine-dining. Start with the duck wings and jumbo crab cakes, or go big with the Scottish salmon. Drinks include wines, beers, craft cocktails and N/A options like a tart cherry splash and orange fizz.
link.mynorth.com/BenzieEats
Add Furnace Street Distillery in Elberta to your drinking destination list. With views of Bestie Bay and the town of Frankfort, the front porch feels like home. Order a The Grass Is Always Greener with muddled tarragon, parsley, basil, mint, fresh squeezed lime juice and gin.
local sip
Birch & Maple
benzie, manistee & cadillac
Crystal, Clear, Calm
Skip the flotillas and floating coolers. Instead, spread your towel under leafy maples as you listen to loons call across the water— Crystal Lake awaits.
by Nicole Lane
Looking for clear, blue-water vibes without the party and sandbar scene? Searching for tranquility over throttling jet skis? Point your compass toward Crystal Lake in Benzie County, where clear turquoise water meets small-town charm, and the soundtrack stays blissfully quiet and low-key. Here, you swap sandbar crowds for shoreline strolls, dockside coffee and sunset paddles that ripple across acres of glassy calm. Exhale, stay awhile.
At the Beach
Start your morning in the village of Beulah. Park along South Benzie Boulevard and step inside Ursa Major, where you can savor Belgian waffles crowned with wild berries and sip a creamy Sleeping Bear Latte. Next, wander down to Beulah Public Beach, where hundreds of feet of sandy shoreline meet the famously clear waters of Crystal Lake. The lake’s sandy bottom makes swimming feel easy and soft, perfect for families and carefree floating. Nearby Beulah Village Park has a playground, bathrooms, a pickleball court, tennis courts, picnic tables and plenty of space to toss a frisbee.
When the afternoon sun climbs high, stroll back into town and browse Beulah’s local shops. Order a signature sub sandwich at East Shore Market and add a chocolate-iced donut to your bag—trust us. Then return to the beach for a paddleboard session that carries you across the water. Crystal Lake makes slowing down easy.
Cyclists can chase miles along the 22-mile Betsie Valley Trailway, a gentle path that links Beulah to nearby towns through forests and countryside. Need wheels? Crystal Lake Adventure Sports rents bikes right in downtown Beulah. From there, pedal the scenic Lake Loop, circle the shoreline and roll past historic barns, roadside fruit stands and panoramic overlooks. Stop often. Taste everything.
On the Water
Boaters embrace the lake’s wide-open water and easy access points. Rent a pontoon from Crystal Lake Adventure Sports and drift through a sunsoaked afternoon. Launch a sailboat at Crystal Lake DNR Boat Launch and tack steadily across the wide bays. Smaller craft can head to the Beulah Boat Launch for easy launching. Local marinas like Crystal Lake Marina outfit visitors with fishing boats and gear. Cast a line and reel in Northern pike, rock bass, bluegill, smallmouth bass and yellow perch, or drop anchor in a quiet cove and float with a novel in hand. You set the pace to on-thewater thrills or leisurely exploration. As evening settles in, the lake glows. Sunsets spill sherbet colors across the water. Families gather for stargazing. Couples clink glasses on cottage decks. Fireflies flicker in the dusk.
On the Road
When wanderlust calls, take the scenic route. Cruise along Crystal Drive for sweeping water views and storybook homes among trees. Follow M-22 as it hugs the Lake Michigan coastline and rolls past orchards and dunes. Connect to U.S. Route 31 for a smooth approach into Benzie County, then loop back toward the lake with windows down and a playlist that matches the mood—sun-kissed and unhurried.
End the day with a double feature at The Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre and don’t skip the popcorn. It’s still made in their 1953 popper.
PHOTO BY MAE STIER
Step into Manistee
Love history? Nature? Architecture? There’s a walking tour for that. Follow sidewalks, river bends and lake breezes through this harbor town that’s best explored by foot.
by Nicole Lane
Lace up your walking shoes and let Manistee unfold beneath your feet. This Lake Michigan harbor town slows your pace and steps straight into the past. Grand homes line leafy avenues, historic storefronts anchor downtown blocks, the river flows steadily toward the big lake. You don’t need a guide—just curiosity.
Residential Historic Tours
Download the Manistee Tourism walking trail guide and start with a self-guided historic home tour. Begin near the Manistee Water Works Museum, where the red-brick Romanesque building sets the tone. Choose your direction: east or west. On the East Homes Tour, you’ll pass
15 preserved residences that showcase ornate trim, wraparound porches and stained-glass windows. Turn west for the West Homes Tour and admire 21 stately houses that lumber barons once called home.
Commercial District Tour
From the home tours, wander downtown and dive into the 2-mile Commercial District Tour. Start at the Manistee County Historical Museum and walk past century-old theaters and beautifully restored storefronts. Expect to spend two to three hours on self-guided walks that highlight 27 historic buildings and two iconic bridges. Don’t forget to pause, shop and sip while you’re touring. Grab a mocha at Port City Brew or enjoy the open-air patio and pinball machines at The Outsider, where the smashburgers are king.
Manistee Riverwalk
The Manistee River commands attention, and the 1.75-mile Manistee Riverwalk along the Big Manistee River delivers the finest views. The boardwalk stretches from Lake Michigan to Manistee Lake, passing bobbing marinas, working fishing boats and open water vistas. Along the walk, 25 historical markers share stories of the city’s lumber boom, maritime heritage and the people who once lived here. Take it all in—the clink of the halyards on masts, the sight of majestic freighters through the channel and the feel of the cool breeze from the water.
Origins Walk
From First Street Beach, follow the Origins Walk and trace the region’s history through 20 metal sculptures as well as plaques and additional art.
This lakeside walk honors the area’s Indigenous roots and represents the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians who inhabited the area.
Arcadia Marsh Boardwalk
For more marshland and fewer sidewalks, head north to the Arcadia Marsh Boardwalk for a short accessible boardwalk straight into the heart of a coastal wetland. It is estimated that 80 percent of all original Great Lakes marshes have been destroyed. This 1.8-mile out-and-back trail protects one of just 15 remaining coastal marshes in Lake Michigan’s lower peninsula shoreline. As you walk, red-winged blackbirds call from the cattails, herons stand stately in the marsh, turtles sun themselves on logs and the wind ripples across the grasses. Step lightly and pause often; you’re in one of the most productive ecosystems on the planet.
Arcadia Marsh Boardwalk
Manistee Riverwalk
insider’s list the up north
This iconic vacation destination still has delightful secrets to be discovered.
by Cara McDonald
Paddle the quiet corners of Elk Lake. Launch a kayak from the public access in Elk Rapids and float over the ghostly remains of a sunken forest. End with a pulled-pork sandwich at the marina-side DAM Shop.
Explore the winding channels of Grass River Natural Area. Seven miles of trails and 1.5 miles of accessible boardwalk lead through wetlands alive with birds and wildflowers. Or rent a kayak nearby in Bellaire and slip into the quiet backwaters for an up-close look at Northern Michigan’s wild side.
Downtown Charlevoix is the place for an easy summer afternoon—grab a cone with strawberry-blueberry pie–flavored ice cream at Kilwin’s, stroll the channel and wait for the bridge to rise as sailboats glide between Lake Michigan and Round Lake.
Cast a line along the Jordan River
Just outside East Jordan, this cold, clear blue-ribbon trout stream is Michigan’s first designated “Natural River” and known for a significant Hex hatch. It winds through cedar forest and around quiet bends— perfect for fly fishing, paddling or simply soaking in the stillness.
Hunt for farm-stand treasures
The countryside around Central Lake and Ellsworth is dotted with roadside stands—expect strawberries in June, sweet cherries in July, heirloom tomatoes in August and jars of local maple syrup year-round.
Picnic on the shore of Intermediate Lake in Bellaire. The village park offers shady tables, a sandy beach and front-row seats to sunset over the water—an easy, low-key way to end a Northern Michigan day.
Small Towns to Love
This region of lakes, rivers, forests and old-fashioned downtowns make for some of the most iconic resort destinations in the North.
by Cara McDonald & Lissa Martin
ALDEN
Lovely little Alden on Torch Lake is filled with boutiques, cafés, a specialty spice store, an old-fashioned general store and even a wine bar. A sandy-bottomed swimming area on Torch Lake is adjacent to the downtown boat launch. Raise a glass to a superb collection of Northern Michigan craft brews at Torch Lake Beer Co. Don’t Miss: Eat strawberry shortcake at the Alden Strawberry Festival in June.
The grand old Antrim County Courthouse presides over this charming town that straddles the banks of the Intermediate River and sits between Lake Bellaire and Intermediate Lake—so yes, think fabulous watersports. Find a lively shopping district and four-season Shanty Creek Resort here. Don’t Miss: For a small town, the nightlife is hoppin,’ with Short’s Brewing Company, Mammoth Distilling, Fireside Lounge and Bee Well Mead & Cider.
BELLAIRE
PHOTO BY KELLY REWA
Charlevoix
charlevoix & chain of lakes
CENTRAL LAKE
This sweet town, located where Hanley Lake meets Intermediate Lake under the bridge, has a true Up North vibe that was kicked up a notch when Mammoth Distilling opened its doors here. Drop by Torch Lake Café for a bite and don’t miss a meal at the stately Blue Pelican Inn—better yet, make it an overnight and grab a room there, too. Don’t Miss: Bachmann’s Store is one of the last remaining authentic five-and-dimes. Toys, games and puzzles? Check. Souvenirs? Check. Kitchen supplies? Yes. Books and bird feeders? You bet! They’ve got pretty much everything.
CHARLEVOIX
The fabulous downtown on Lake Charlevoix is brimming with galleries, boutiques and restaurants. East Park serves as a hub for outdoor concerts, festivals and farmers markets. With Lake Michigan on one side and Round Lake on the other, stunning beaches and a first-class marina, this city is for water worshippers. Watching boats pass under the drawbridge is a major pastime here, as is drinking craft beer in front of a drop-dead Lake Charlevoix view at Bridge Street Tap Room. Don’t Miss: Michigan Beach Park on Lake Michigan offers up a sandy beach, swim area, top-notch rock hunting, a playground, volleyball, pavilion and concessions—all within walking distance of downtown.
EAST JORDAN
With a bounty of Lake Charlevoix and Jordan River shoreline, this lovely city combines outdoor sports with fun downtown shops and eateries. Check out the Jordan Art Walk along city streets, featuring sculptures created by local artists, then stop for lunch and a brew at Foundry Craft Grillery. Don’t Miss: Raven Hill Discovery Center combines science, art and history with loads of hands-on learning.
ELK RAPIDS
Wedged between Elk Lake and Lake Michigan, this town is a spot of coastal heaven. Find your place on a golden-sand Lake Michigan beach, hunt for antiques, browse the boutiques and galleries downtown, then fill up at one of this town’s awesome eateries, like the beloved Cellar 152. Don’t Miss: Elk Rapids Day Park is home to one of the best sunset beaches Up North.
ELLSWORTH
Tucked on the northernmost point of the Chain of Lakes, this charmer of a village on Ellsworth Lake has a public park with a fishing pier, labyrinth garden and Michigan’s largest outdoor public archery range. Don’t Miss: You’re at the tip of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail, a 100-mile inland water trail for paddlers with 84 access sites, restrooms, dining and more along the route.
The OG of outdoor dining, with a long, awning-covered deck right on the turquoise blue waters of Torch Lake. Pull up your boat, grab a seat and tuck into classic Mexican and American tavern fare.
RIVERWALK GRILL & TAPROOM, ELK RAPIDS
Grab a craft beer and a seat on this waterside deck, directly along the beautiful Elk River shoreline (you can boat here!). Enjoy dishes like cedar-planked salmon and lobster rolls while soaking in the view. And for your night cap? An espresso martini, of course.
STAFFORD’S WEATHERVANE RESTAURANT, CHARLEVOIX
From elegant classics like escargot and planked whitefish to a kid’s menu with mac ’n’ cheese and a flatbread pepperoni pizza, Weathervane’s menu makes for a perfect date night or family outing. Best of all, the restaurant sits
right on the Round Lake Channel and offers incredible views of passing boats and downtown Charlevoix.
TORCH LAKE BEER CO., ALDEN
Right across from the Torch Lake boat launch, this pub serves up sunset views, patio seating and robust breakfast, lunch and dinner menus—not to mention lots of local brews on tap and an impressive bottle list. Order a burger (the best in town) or try the chicken dill pizza or Plath’s Rajun Cajun BLT.
WILD STRAWBERRY CAFÉ, BEAVER ISLAND
Whether you’re looking for a boozy brunch or a berry truffle vinaigrette salad, this charming island eatery has you covered. Nestled along St. James Harbor, the café features quaint front porch seating and dishes like homemade French onion soup and short rib sammies.
link.mynorth.com/CharlevoixEats
For artful cocktails with seasonal regional inspo, visit LO Bar or the rooftop bar at The Earl in Charlevoix–sip on signature cocktails like the cherry cordial, chocolate Negroni and seasonally tweaked Palomas.
An Architecture-lover’s Guide to Charlevoix
Mushroom-shaped cottages, a Normandy-inspired castle and a fever dream of a boathouse are just a few of the stories told in stone and timber.
by Cara McDonald
Perched between Lake Michigan and Round Lake, Charlevoix is one of Northern Michigan’s most visually distinctive towns, thanks in large part to a remarkable blend of storybook cottages, early 20th-century resort architecture and an unexpected French-inspired castle. For architecture lovers, it’s a place where a casual stroll can feel like flipping through a design anthology.
The Magic of Earl Young’s Mushroom Houses
No architectural tour of Charlevoix begins anywhere but with the fantastical stone homes designed by self-taught builder Earl Young. Between 1919 and the 1970s, Young constructed more than two dozen homes and several commercial buildings in town, each built from massive fieldstones
and boulders he personally collected from Northern Michigan landscapes. These whimsical dwellings, nicknamed “mushroom houses,” are defined by swooping cedar-shake roofs, undulating eaves and thick stone walls that seem to grow organically from the ground.
Many of the best examples cluster around Park Avenue and Clinton Street. Look for the iconic Mushroom House at Grant and Clinton streets, along with Boulder Manor, the Owl House and the diminutive Half House. Though privately owned, the homes are easy to admire from the sidewalk, and self-guided walking tours make it easy to explore several in one afternoon. Young’s work wasn’t limited to residences. His imaginative stonework also shaped local landmarks such as Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant and Weathervane Terrace Inn, where massive fireplaces and sculptural masonry showcase his signature style.
PHOTO BY KELLY REWA
Castle Farms
charlevoix & chain of lakes
A French-Inspired Castle in Northern Michigan
Just a few miles outside town, the imposing towers of Castle Farms rise above rolling countryside. The complex was built in 1918 by Sears executive Albert Loeb and designed by architect Arthur Heun originally as a model dairy farm meant to showcase prize livestock and modern agricultural equipment. Inspired by the stone farm buildings of Normandy, the estate includes turrets, courtyards and thick masonry walls that feel more European château than Midwest farmstead. Today, the restored property invites visitors to wander its gardens, explore historic exhibits, enjoy onsite dining and admire the dramatic architecture that earned the site a place on the National Register of Historic Places.
Charlevoix’s
Historic Heart
Downtown Charlevoix offers a different architectural experience: a walkable district layered with Victorian, Colonial Revival and early commercial buildings. The Charlevoix Central Historic District, centered around Bridge Street and Round Lake, reflects more than a century of development in this lakeside resort community. Here, brick storefronts, historic hotels and harbor views combine to create one of the most picturesque downtowns in Northern Michigan.
The Train Depot Museum
Another architectural gem sits near the waterfront: the Charlevoix Train Depot Museum. Housed in a restored early-1900s railroad depot, the museum celebrates the rail lines that once carried visitors north to Charlevoix’s grand summer resorts. Its simple wooden structure— complete with wide overhanging eaves and vintage railroad artifacts— captures the era when trains were the gateway to Michigan’s resort coast.
Lakeside Cottages and Resort Heritage
Charlevoix’s classic lakeside cottages also tell stories. Many date to the early resort era of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Chicago and Detroit families built elaborate summer homes along Lake Michigan and Round Lake. Shingle-style lodges, Craftsman cottages and whimsical stone retreats dot the shoreline. One of the most well-known is a Nantucket-style house originally built by John Winn, founder of Four Winns boats, and is home to a 9,000-square-foot working boathouse. The best way to see them? Take a charter sail or sunset cruise of Lake Charlevoix.
Jordan Inn
insider’s list the up north
Pop in to the beautifully restored Michigan Avenue digs of The Curator, a joy-inducing collection of home and lifestyle goods and gifts packed with hard-to-find and locally made treasures.
Learn to cast on the storied Au Sable River by booking a fly-fishing lesson with Au Sable River Guide Service in Grayling—they specialize in helping new, youth, and women anglers who want to get started or level up.
Embrace NoMI’s farm-to-table inspiration at The Farmer’s Table in Wolverine; enjoy hearty dishes like steak and eggs or chicken and waffles made from locally sourced and pasture-raised meat, as well as vegan dishes like chickpea veggie curry packed with local veg.
Dip your toe in the Pigeon River Wilderness with a jaunt on the Towerman’s Watch Trail. This 3-mile loop near Gaylord is a moderate hike with the chance to see elk, turkey, beaver, snowshoe hare and other wildlife that call this stretch of wilderness home.
Before an Inland Waterway adventure, start your day in Indian River at Christopher’s Café—opt for an elk sausage skillet, or a made-to-order Belgian waffle with all the fixins.
Head to Grayling’s Borchers Au Sable Canoe & Kayak for a kayak rental and strike off on an afternoon paddle on the mighty Au Sable. Feeling adventurous? You can book multi-day rentals with pickup so you can camp along the way.
This region is blessed with an abundance of natural resources and hearty, post-adventure eats. Pack your swimsuit and hiking boots—wilderness awaits.
by Cara McDonald
Small Towns to Love
In the heart of the Mitten, discover a Michigan you forgot—or didn’t know— existed. These sweet towns, with their rivers, lakes, homey cabin resorts and miles of wilderness, invite you to get lost for a weekend.
by Carly Simpson
GAYLORD
Your first stop should be Alpine Chocolat Haus for chocolate-covered potato chips (just trust) and ice cream. Then work your way down Main Street, keeping an eye out for vibrant murals tucked in alleyways. Swing into White Birch Outfitters for gear and the best local trail intel. Don’t Miss: The city’s elk park was recently updated, including a universally accessible viewing platform, pavilion, picnic area, restrooms and playground.
GRAYLING
The city that dubs itself Michigan’s most colorful river town sits at the headwaters of the Au Sable and Manistee. Add big, beautiful Lake Margrethe, a smattering of smaller lakes and miles of forests and you get the picture: Life here revolves around four seasons of outdoor sports. Don’t Miss: The 1.25-mile paved Old Growth Forest Trail at Hartwick Pines State Park leads you under towering 400-year-old trees.
INDIAN RIVER
This water-loving town sits along the 40-mile Inland Waterway and is also at the convergence of some of the state’s greatest hiking, biking and snowmobile trails: the 75-mile North Central State Trail; the 70-mile North Eastern State Trail and the 32-mile North Western State Trail. Rent a pontoon and cruise the Inland Waterway; find rentals at The Landings and Indian River Marina. Don’t Miss: The rollicking beer garden at Northland Brewing Co. with food trucks and weekly live music. Kids love the ice cream hut at Drost’s Chocolates.
LEWISTON
Thanks to East Twin and West Twin lakes, water makes up nearly half of this Northwoods burg (which is also surrounded by nearly 40 more lakes, all within a short drive). Don’t Miss: Golfers converge at the rustically elegant Garland Lodge & Golf Resort with its four championship courses and well-stocked tiki bar.
TOPINABEE
VANDERBILT
You could visit Vanderbilt—the northern gateway to Pigeon River Country State Forest—and never spend time inside. Find camping, hiking and horseback riding on miles of trails, as well as canoeing and fishing on the Sturgeon and Pigeon rivers. Don’t Miss: Cyclists cruise through on a section of the 2,000-mile U.P.-to-Detroit Iron Belle Trail. Refuel with a fried-perch platter at Corwith Station.
WOLVERINE
Claim your spot at Topinabee Beach Park with its 400 feet of frontage on Mullett Lake, grills, picnic tables and play equipment, plus day-use docks for boaters. Don’t Miss: Mullet Lake is the star here. Locals boat to dinner at Breakers, and there’s even live music on the water. Pack your bathing suit and follow the Facebook page Music on Mullet for the lineup.
The spunky, fast-moving Sturgeon River runs through this quiet town. Head out on an exhilarating paddle or spend quiet hours casting for a trophy-sized rainbow trout. Don’t Miss: If you’re worried about tipping over, opt for a raft instead at Sturgeon River Paddlesports. The stable watercraft can carry three to seven people, and the team will clue you in on spots to stop and take a swim.
PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER
Downtown Gaylord
Outdoor Dining: Our Patio Season Picks
Here’s your go-to list.
by Cara McDonald and Carly Simpson
PADDLE HARD YARD, GRAYLING
The Yard, an outdoor venue made up of shipping containers, has drinks and live music all summer long. Just down the block, its older sibling, Paddle Hard Brewing, has Michigan beers and inventive thin-crust pizzas (think Coney dog and dill chicken) worth braking for.
RAY’S BBQ, BREWS & BLUES, GRAYLING
What’s better than barbecue, craft beer and live music on the banks of the Au Sable River on a warm summer night? Call us if you think of something. Snag a patio or picnic table and tuck into smoked chicken, spare ribs, black angus beef brisket and corn bread smothered in honey butter.
ALPINE TAVERN & EATERY, GAYLORD
A tiki hut sets the mood: relaxed. The family- and pup-friendly patio has a mini sandbox for littles, a giant checker board, cornhole and plenty of shaded seating. The menu is anchored by eight-ounce burgers, with cheese curds and bang bang shrimp for good measure.
PINE SQUIRREL BAR & GRILL, GAYLORD
This hometown hangout has its own softball field. You should expect a good time. Take your cold beer and garlic parm chicken wings out back and catch a league game.
THE THIRSTY STURGEON, WOLVERINE
With the Sturgeon River running through the backyard and the North Central State Trail right out front, this tavern’s deck is a popular stop for kayakers and cyclists. Start with an order of Reuben balls—everything you love about the sandwich, rolled into a crunchy panko-covered bite.
MICHAEL’S TAVERN & STEAKHOUSE, INDIAN RIVER
This chef-driven boutique steakhouse and tavern in a renovated 1938 log building has several dining areas, including Maggie's Silo, an outdoor bar with a large patio surrounded by towering trees.
link.mynorth.com/GaylordGraylingEats
Head to Gaylord's Snowbelt Brewing Co. for a Big Heart Brown Ale, made with a hint of coldbrewed coffee from Brennans Up North.
Paddle Hard Brewing
insider’s list the up north
Get up close and personal with this region of colorful history and bold natural beauty.
by Nicole Lane
On the shore of Mullet Lake near the Straits of Mackinac is Aloha State Park in Aloha. At 17 acres, it’s small by park standards, but swimmers, paddlers, boaters and campers flock to its 238 campsites for a sweet summer getaway.
Ponies on a potato field means it's summer polo season. Catch a Bliss Polo match on Friday at 11 a.m., or on Sundays at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. right on a former potato field in the blinkand-you-miss-it town of Bliss outside of Cross Village.
Go island-hopping and make a reservation at the restaurant attached to the Le Cheneaux Culinary School for wild mushroom Rangoons and green-curry whitefish.
Stop at Symons General Store & Wine Cellar in Petoskey and order a 5 Dragon sandwich stacked with corned beef, Swiss and slaw on rye.
Experience a traditional Odawa Pow Wow at the LTBB Pow Wow Grounds in Harbor Springs. Watch dancers whirl, and sample fry bread, corn soup and other traditional Native foods from local vendors.
Hop on a ferry to Bois Blanc Island, Mackinac Island’s big neighbor, and tour the charming Bois Blanc Island Coast Guard Chapel and Pointe Aux Pins, a historic, remote community with unpaved roads and a general store. Don’t miss a patty melt loaded with tater tots at Lakeside Lites.
Small Towns to Love
Welcome
to the towns (and one island!) of the PetoskeyMackinac Straits region.
by Nicole Lane
ALANSON
Boaters commence in Alanson—known as the “Gateway to the Inland Waterway” with connections to Crooked Lake and Burt Lake. After a day drifting on the water, head to Burt Lake Brewing for a brown trout stout or lavender-infused hard cider. Order a strawberry rhubarb or classic cherry pie at Sweet and Savory Pie Company. They sell individual-sized lobster mac & cheese pies, too. Eat them slice by slice at Alanson Hillside Garden, a third space in downtown that’s perfect for picnicking. Don’t Miss: Biking or hiking on the 4.4-mile Crooked Lake Trail with views of lakes and streams on a mix of dirt, boardwalk and rugged hills.
BAY HARBOR
Sample wines at Sip, devour candied bacon at Maple + Batter and see a Broadway show at Great Lakes Center for the Arts at the waterside district. Don’t Miss: Bay Harbor hosts fab events throughout the summer, including the Classic Car & Boat Festival in June and Balloons Over Bay Harbor in September.
BOYNE COUNTRY
This vibrant playground stretches from Boyne City to Walloon Lake Village, weaving together Boyne Resorts and scenic shorelines on Lake Charlevoix and Walloon Lake. Explore lively craft beer pubs, quirky boutiques and an abundance of waterside parks, including the sprawling Young State Park. Don’t Miss: The National Morel Mushroom Festival, May 15–18, brings together mushroom lovers from across the globe
CHEBOYGAN
In this city blessed with Lake Huron and Cheboygan River frontage, view shipwrecks through a glass-bottomed boat with Nautical North Family Adventures, and hike and bike on more trails than in any other county in the state. Catch national shows at the restored Victorian-era Cheboygan Opera House. Visit the iconic Sea Shell City for kitschy nautical novelties you don’t need, but have to have. Don’t Miss: Summertime is complete at Yeck’s, a charming old-fashioned drive-in with burgers, malts and car-hop service.
Boyne Country
YOUR FAVORITE SUMMER WEEKEND
GALACTIC feat. JELLY JOSEPH the INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS the ORIGINAL WAILERS feat. AL ANDERSON THEO KATZMAN
Michigan Artists JOE HERTLER & THE RAINBOW SEEKERS MAY ERLEWINE with PACKY LUNDHOLM LARRY MCCRAY THE REBEL EVES MARK LAVENGOOD CHARLIE MILLARD BAND SWEET DEE & THE WILD HONEYS DAVE SHARP WORLDS QUARTET K. JONES & THE BENZIE PLAYBOYS SETH BERNARD + MANY MORE! folk + roots festival July 10-12,2026 • Harbor Springs, Michigan • Blissfest.org
70+ Musical Acts, 10 Stages, Drum & Dance, Silent Disco, Buskers, Folkscool, Healing Arts, Kids Area & Instrument Garden Studio by Boredomfighters
Refined comfort on Little Traverse Bay.
Set along the shoreline, Bay View Inn by The Cotton Collection offers a quiet, waterfront retreat just minutes from downtown Petoskey. Spend your days biking scenic roads, exploring nearby trails, or enjoying time on the water, then return to a relaxed, historic setting. Dine at the Roselawn Dining Room with sweeping views of the bay. Restful stays. Lakeside dining. Effortless summer days. Reserve your stay. thebayviewinn.com
CROSS VILLAGE & GOOD HART
Treat yourself to browsing these quaint towns right on scenic M-119, otherwise known as the Tunnel of Trees. In Good Hart, find the Good Hart General Store, Primitive Images, Good Hart & Soul Tea Room and A Studio gift shop. Farther north, in Cross Village, stop at Three Pines Studio and Legs Inn, an authentic Polish restaurant in a cool stone-and-timber building. Don’t Miss: Museum of L’Arbe Croche at Holy Cross Parish—the tiny museum details Odawa history, the lumber era and early pioneers.
HARBOR SPRINGS
This waterfront town is a pretty postcard of galleries, boutiques, bakeries and cafés tucked along Main Street where flowers tumble from shop-window boxes—don’t miss a stroll here. For a beach day, choose from kid-friendly Zorn Park beach downtown or 300 feet of secluded bliss at Thorne Swift Nature Preserve. Harbor Springs is also the launching point for the Tunnel of Trees scenic drive along M-119, with 20 miles of natural beauty. Don’t Miss: The annual Little Traverse Yacht Club Ugotta Regatta, July 25–27, brings in some of the best sailboat racers in the country.
MACKINAC ISLAND
Rent bikes from Mackinac Wheels and cruise the eight-mile scenic road around the island, step inside Grand Hotel for afternoon tea in their parlor, stroll the shops downtown and stop for fudge, smell the lilacs, book a sunset tour with Great Turtle Kayak Tours and see Arch Rock waterside. Don’t Miss: Make a reservation at The Woods Restaurant, a Bavarian-themed dining experience that’s only accessible by a scenic, horse-drawn carriage ride through the interior of the island.
MACKINAW CITY
At the very tip of the mitten and in the shadow of the Mackinac Bridge sits a bustling gateway to Mackinac Island and the U.P. See the Mackinac Bridge from new heights with Mackinaw Parasailing. Visit the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum and nerd out on the Icebreaker Mackinaw WAGB-83, where you can tour the mess deck, captain’s quarters, bridge, engine room and more (you can even stay the night if you dare). Don’t Miss: The night sky from Headlands International Dark Sky Park, where zero light pollution and interpretive events give you the best stargazing around—you might even catch the Northern Lights.
PETOSKEY
Grill, a Victorian-era pub with sinfully delicious hot biscuits. Your beach is Hoogland Family Preserve for a smaller shoreline but fewer people. Don’t Miss: You can’t beat Magnus City Park Beach for some of the best Petoskey stone hunting.
ST. IGNACE
Learn about the Mackinac Bridge (while you’re looking at it!) at Bridge View Park, explore the Museum of Ojibwa Culture, walk to the Wawatam
Lighthouse and grab a lemon-lavender margarita on the patio at Buoys by the Bay. Don’t Miss: The St. Ignace Annual Native American Festival in May invites visitors to experience the culture of the Anishinaabe people through handcrafted art, expressive dance and music.
VILLAGE OF WALLOON
For adventure, set your kayak into the whitewater at Bear River Valley Recreation Area. Get your culture on with a walking tour of the historic cottages of Bay View or browsing the exhibits at Crooked Tree Arts Center. Take in the views of the rocky shoreline at East Park, then dine at City Park
Anchored by the dreamy Hotel Walloon, this blink-and-miss-it town is home to Instafamous Sweetwater Floral, the bustling Barrel Back restaurant and several outfitters to help you play on the storied crystal waters of Walloon Lake. Don’t Miss: Walloon Lake Beach is a public access sandy beach with volleyball and horseshoes and a quiet, local feel.
Mackinaw City
Outdoor Dining: Our Patio Season Picks
Is there anything better than a sun-splashed table and a lake breeze to set the mood? We’ve rounded up our favorite spots to dine al fresco.
by Nicole Lane
BRANDY’S HARBORTOWN, BAY HARBOR
Head straight for the marina at Bay Harbor and settle into dockside bliss at Brandy’s. This breezy, laidback cabana bar has four walk-up “micro kitchens” serving wings and beer, fresh fish, comfort food and creative healthy fare. Grab a patio seat perched right on Little Traverse Bay, order up a lobster quesadilla with a cold rosé and take in the Little Traverse Bay sunset.
BACK LOT BEER GARDEN, PETOSKEY
Tucked into the heart of Petoskey, the Back Lot Beer Garden turns every summer day into a celebration. Grab an ice-cold beer on tap, dive into crispy fish and chips, cool off with a strawberry lemonade or savor street-style tacos—all while the sunshine soaks in. Kick back, let the kids roam and play and bring your pup along for the fun.
CAFÉ SANTÉ, BOYNE CITY
Score a patio table at Café Santé and let the view do the rest. Lake Charlevoix shimmers just steps away, a glass half-wall protects from the breeze, and a glowing fire ring warms the evening air. The superb bistro fare ranges from wood-fired pizzas to moules-frites, and the beer, wine and cocktails are distinctly European—right here in Northern Michigan.
LEGS INN, CROSS VILLAGE
This bluff-top restaurant is the best seat in the house when the sun is sinking into the vast Lake Michigan horizon. The cuisine revolves around robust Polish dishes—a tribute to the Polish immigrant who built this restaurant of stone, wood and old stove legs trimming the roof.
PINK PONY, MACKINAC ISLAND
For more than 75 years, the Pink Pony has set the scene on Mackinac Island—and it’s only getting better with time. Snag a table under a pink umbrella harborside and watch the ferries come and go as you graze tavern fare. Start with the Famous Island Rum Runner cocktail (it comes in a Pink Pony Souvenir Tumbler) and hum along to Chappel Roan’s pop-culture hit.
STAFFORD’S PIER RESTAURANT, HARBOR SPRINGS
In Harbor Springs, Stafford’s Pier Restaurant places you at the edge of Little Traverse Bay, where sailboats and yachts glide in and out of the harbor. Linger over house specialties like seafood chowder, planked whitefish and lobster carbonara.
link.mynorth.com/PetoskeyEats
Maple Moon Sugarbush and Winery in Petoskey is the first maple winery in the country. With 11 wines and two maple hard ciders, it’s quintessential Up North sipping. Take in the rustic atmosphere, claim a picnic table, order the bourbon-aged maple cider and dig into the salsa flight.
local sip
Legs Inn petoskey
reality exceeds expectation. See for yourself. only birds dare to fly.
IT’S KINDA UNREAL.
When the Stars Come Out
In this magical corner of Northern Michigan, twilight settles into still water and an awe-inspiring night sky.
by MEAGAN FRANCIS
In the Petoskey area, the landscape is defined by transitions—water to sky, bluff to shoreline, harbor lights to starlight. Nowhere is that shift more powerful than along Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay, where evening transforms those wide-open skies into something perspective-shifting.
First, the lake goes molten. Little Traverse Bay catches fire in streaks of coral and gold in a “million-dollar sunset” locals rave about. Then, as the colors thin and the horizon cools, something quieter takes over as dusk gives way to an otherworldly starscape.
But views this rich come with an equally incredible price tag: it’s free. “Just bring a blanket, lie down, and look up,” says Anne Fleming, the director of community outreach and communications at the Little Traverse Conservancy. Accessibility, she insists, is the point: You don’t need special gear, and you don’t need to own a country home or boat to witness a wide-open nighttime sky. From vast stretches of shoreline to high meadow preserves, many of the region’s most remarkable vantage points are open to anyone.
That openness is part of what helped make the Headlands one of the first International Dark Sky Parks in the world. In 2011, under the leadership of Mary Stewart Adams—who calls herself a “star lore historian”—the Headlands, located less than an hour from the Petoskey area, became the ninth International Dark Sky Park globally, and later earned the Dark Sky Association’s Park of the Year award.
Adams describes her mission as “safeguarding the human imagination by protecting our access to the night sky and its stories.” To her, the sky isn’t just an object overhead–it’s a living inheritance. “When we look into the sky,” she says, “we are looking into the most intimate places of our own being.”
The shift from observer to participant makes the Petoskey area feel almost otherworldly at night.
At Offield Family Viewlands, once a golf course and now a protected piece of hilltop acreage between Harbor Springs and Petoskey, visitors can stand at a kind of natural divide. Little Traverse Bay is visible in one direction, the Inland Waterway stretching toward Lake Huron in the other. Here, sunset over Lake Michigan can be followed by moonrise over Crooked Lake. As artificial light recedes, planets appear,
constellations clarify and the Milky Way comes into clearer view. It happens literally every day, but somehow the sense of wonder never fades.
“You start getting that sense of oneness,” Fleming says. “These same stars and planets can be seen from anywhere in the world.”
Protecting dark skies, says Adams, is as practical as it is poetic. Nearly two-thirds of artificial light used at night is wasted, spilling upward where it serves no purpose while disrupting wildlife and human circadian rhythms. “The dark skies movement is not about no light at night,” Adams explains. “It is about the right amount of light, in the right place, at the right time.”
In the Petoskey area, that balance allows something rare to happen. As the lake quiets and the air cools, and the last boat wake fades, overhead, the night sky reappears.
It’s more than a photo-op…it’s kinda unreal.
Whether you’re chasing the last light over the bay or waiting for the Milky Way to rise, there’s more to uncover here. Plan your next evening—and everything that fills the day before it— at petoskeyarea.com
Step Back in Time
From Odawa heritage sites to Victorian cottages, Petoskey packs centuries of stories into one lakeside escape.
by Nicole Lane
BY
PHOTO
CONNOR GRAY
History surrounds you in Petoskey. It lives on wrap-around front porches, lingers in gaslit streets and echoes across Little Traverse Bay. Spend a day exploring this charming Northern Michigan town and you’ll find heritage, splendor and literary legends— all within a few scenic miles. Lace up your walking shoes and let history lead the way.
ANDREW BLACKBIRD MUSEUM
Step inside the former home of Chief Andrew J. Blackbird, in Harbor Springs. The Andrew Blackbird Museum honors the influential 19thcentury chief who helped interpret the 1855 Treaty of Detroit for the Odawa people. Today, the small museum houses quill art, photographs and artifacts of the Odawa culture. Admission is free; donations are welcome.
LITTLE
TRAVERSE HISTORY MUSEUM
Explore Petoskey’s past at the Little Traverse History Museum. The 1892 train depot is a charming waterfront treasure trove of stories. Rotating and permanent exhibitions showcase the rich tapestry of life Up North. Wander through exhibits dedicated to Ernest Hemingway, who spent summers Up North, with personal artifacts including a piano once owned by his mother.
BAY VIEW NEIGHBORHOOD
Stroll into Bay View, and you’ll swear you’ve wandered onto a movie set. This National Historic Landmark summer community enchants visitors with 444 Victorian cottages with wide porches and blooming gardens. Founded in 1875, Bay View is a seasonal Chautauqua community drawing residents from across the country, and proudly hosts the longest-running music festival in the United States. Concerts, lectures and performances fill the summer calendar. Nature lovers can duck into Bay View Woods, a 168-acre preserve brimming with towering trees, wildflowers and birdsong. Don’t Miss: Monday Night Movies in Voorhies Hall, a weekly tradition running from mid-May through late September. Settle into your seat and enjoy a slice of small-town Americana.
DOWNTOWN
Petoskey’s historic Gaslight District brims with energy from more than 100 preserved 19th and 20th-century buildings that line the streets, blending architectural styles under the warm glow of classic gas lamps. Start at the stately Hotel Perry then head to the district’s first brick building—the Central Drug Store. Grab a table at City Park Grill, once a favorite haunt of Ernest Hemingway. Admire the stately Carnegie Library, a Neo-Classical Revival beauty that anchors the neighborhood. Between historical stops, enjoy browsing boutiques, popping into art galleries and sipping your way through cozy coffee shops. Don’t Miss: Pennsylvania Park, where railroad tracks now frame a peaceful gathering space with a gazebo. Wander the path, snap a photo beside Farragut’s cannon or pose for a selfie with the young Hemingway statue. Then claim a bench and soak in the scene.
INDIAN MISSION CHURCH
St. Francis Solanus Indian Mission perches high above Little Traverse Bay, and stands as Petoskey’s oldest building. Built in 1859, it’s the town’s first Catholic church and remains a sacred space deeply connected to the Odawa community. With a white picket fence and small bell tower, there’s a quiet type of dignity. Step inside and you’ll feel the weight and grace of over a hundred years of history. Don’t Miss: The annual Mass on July 14, when the community gathers to honor the spirit of Petoskey.
PHOTS BY RACHEL HAGGERTY
For the Stargazer
When twilight fades, head north to the Headlands International Dark Sky Park, one of the nation’s premier stargazing destinations. Tucked along more than 600 acres of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline, this certified dark sky area protects the night from artificial light. Some park rangers are also members of the local astronomy club, which often hosts onsite evening programming for deeper dives into the cosmos. Spread out on a blanket, bring a folding chair or two and point out the Milky Way. Visit during peak aurora activity for electric greens and purples that hover over the water. If you’re a day traveler, explore forested trails and rugged shoreline bluffs.
For the Hiker
Get your steps in at Thorne Swift Nature
Preserve, a small but mighty preserve in Harbor Springs that protects 30 acres of dunes, wetlands and forest along Lake Michigan. A short 1-mile loop will take you through wildflowers and towering pines before spitting you out on a stretch of shoreline. Woollam Family Nature Preserve is a lesser-known gem managed by the Little Traverse Conservancy, with gentle trails that wind through open meadows and mixed forests. Looking for a longer trek? Hop on the North Country Trail, which extends between Vermont and North Dakota and runs right through Petoskey. The vast trail takes you through hardwood forests, quiet country roads and countryside views.
Wander Off in Petoskey
Discover hushed forests, hidden trails and a stargazer’s paradise.
by Nicole Lane
In the Petoskey region, adventure isn’t always found on boardwalks or packed parking lots. It hides down a two-track trail, past the canopy of maple or under a sky so dark it spills with stars. If you’re looking for some elbow room in untamed beauty, steer toward these under-the-radar escapes.
For the Water Lover
Skip the packed sandy beaches and find your own oasis on the shoreline. Zorn Park Beach is a small but stunning Lake Michigan beach tucked below a bluff in Harbor Springs. Swim, skip stones or let the sun warm you—the glassy water sets the pace. If you prefer a dose of river magic, wander inland to Bear River Valley Recreation Area, just a few blocks from downtown Petoskey. Boardwalks and trails meander next to the rushing Bear River. Anglers choose to fish near the dam, adventurers head into the whitewater currents for an afternoon of kayaking. Searching for absolute quiet? The shoreline at Sturgeon Bay Beach inside Wilderness State Park delivers endless views of water, wide beaches and no crowds.
Thorne Swift Nature Preserve
A summer getaway at the reimagined Harbour View Inn
Experience the stunning transformation at Harbour View Inn by The Cotton Collection, where guests will find a completely reimagined and newly designed inn with local charm — from beautiful guest rooms and suites to new gorgeous gardens. Nestled among other grand cottages and Victorian mansions, our boutique inn o ers a quintessential Mackinac Island getaway with a two-story front porch overlooking the picturesque Mackinac Island Harbor.
New to the collection is Pedals Harbour Grille where guests can bike up for a fresh take on al fresco streetside dining.
insider’s list the up north
Visit Bay Books in downtown Suttons Bay for a curated selection of books, gifts and local merch. Stay for their Books and Wine book club and join fellow bookworms to discuss the pick of the month over a glass of wine.
Launch your kayak at Cedar Village Park and paddle through the 548acre Cedar River Preserve, known as Northern Michigan’s Everglades.
Sample gourmet chocolates and hot drinks made from ethically sourced cocoa at Grocer's Daughter Chocolate. In summer, nothing’s better than a house-made fudgesicle in flavors like dark chocolate honey passion fruit or milk chocolate vanilla cinnamon.
Taste Northern Michigan’s finest terroir at Three Trees Vineyard, a boutique winery known for its delicious merlot and cabernet franc. Sample a flight on the quiet outdoor patio and get to know the winemakers.
Spend the night—or a Thursday evening—at Little Traverse Inn for live Irish, Scottish and English folk music and classic UK comfort food. Stay for perfect pints of Guinness, an extensive Scotch collection and warm conversations that linger into the night.
Take in the ethereal beauty of the ghost town of Glen Haven. Step into history at the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum, Cannery Boathouse Museum and the Historical Village Blacksmith Shop, then hunt for rocks or take a dip in the bay.
Explore the natural wonders, foodie hot spots and third places that make this water-loving county famous.
by Matthew Dursum
Small Towns to Love
The Leelanau Peninsula’s small towns buzz with energy, with boutiques, galleries, eclectic restaurants, wineries and plenty of beautiful places to steal away. This is your insider’s guide.
by Matthew Dursum
CEDAR & MAPLE CITY
Cruise into the heart of Leelanau with a stop in Cedar. Order coffee at Cedar River Coffee Company before discovering the treasures of this tiny shopping district, including handmade jewelry at Dana C. Fear, cozy weaving supplies at Wool and Honey and cultural finds at the Polish Art Center. The local hangout, Cedar Tavern, serves hearty pub food, while Cedar Sol Taco Stand & Hydro Farm and the Polish Countryside Kitchen food truck offer delicious quick bites. Up in Maple City, Market 22 serves signature pizzas and a selection of mouthwatering Reuben sandwiches. Order a pint and a stacked burber at Broomstack Kitchen & Taphouse, then learn to curl at the adjacent Leelanau Curling Club. Catch happy hour wine and gourmet bites
at La Bécasse. Don’t Miss: The one and only Cedar Polka Fest, returning for its 44th year August 27–30.
EMPIRE
Start at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore’s Visitor Center before heading out to hike the Empire Bluff Trail to some of the best lake views in the North. Peruse the antiques at The Misers’ Hoard or try surfing lessons from Sleeping Bear Surf. Grab a juicy burger at Joe’s Friendly Tavern or pizza and sandwiches at Shipwreck Cafe before catching the gilded sunset at North Bar Lake. Don’t Miss: The Empire Asparagus Festival is back on Saturday, June 6.
PHOTO BY DAVE WEIDNER
Boathouse Vineyard, Lake Leelanau
GLEN ARBOR
Start with coffee and handmade pastries at The Mill before kayaking down the Crystal River or biking the 22-mile Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. Load up on cherry-themed treats and gifts at Cherry Republic, sip drinks on the M22 patio or taste local wines at Glen Arbor Wines. For dinner, book a table with a lake view at the fine-dining superstar Blu or enjoy a farm-to-table experience at Supper at The Mill. Don’t Miss: Watch the area’s top athletes run, bike and paddle through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for the M22 Challenge on June 13.
LAKE LEELANAU
Nestled on the stunning Lake Leelanau Narrows, this small town has everything you could want in a top summer destination. Get your day started with coffee at Pedaling Beans Coffeehouse before brunch at Fiddleheads or Indian carryout at NJ’s Grocery. Visit the popular tasting rooms at Amoritas Vineyards, Boathouse Vineyards and Soul Squeeze Cellars, or check out the artisanal libations at Northern Latitudes Distillery. Sit down for classic American fare at Dick’s Pour House. Don’t Miss: Visit the bakery/ farmstand 9 Bean Rows for homemade pastries, bread and decadent sammies, plus some of the best coffee on the Leelanau Peninsula.
LELAND
This coastal town is a vacation hotspot for good reason, with its historic harbor, stunning beaches and charming shops. Check out Fishtown’s shanties, antique fishing boats, maritime-inspired stores, cafés and Carlson’s Fishery, home to the town’s famous smoked fish. Take a fishing charter or hop the ferry to South Manitou Island for adventurous hiking and paddling. Sips and bites include wine tasting at Verterra Winery, gourmet cheese from the Village Cheese Shanty and fine dining at the Riverside Inn. Don’t Miss: The Leland Wine & Food Festival returns Saturday, June 13.
NORTHPORT
Drive to the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula to explore this postcard-perfect town. See the majestic Grand Traverse Lighthouse before taking in the natural scenery of Leelanau State Park. Shop the eclectic storefronts or go bowling at Northport Pub & Grille. When hunger sets in, grab specialty wood-fired pizza at Faro, sandwiches at New Bohemian Café and craft beer and small bites at Mitten Brewing Company. Don’t Miss: After your perfect day in Northport, catch the sunset at Peterson Park and see multicolored hues frame North Manitou Island in the distance.
OMENA & PESHAWBESTOWN
Just past Suttons Bay is the charming village of Omena, nestled next to the tranquil shores of Omena Bay. Pick your most romantic bouquet at U-Pick at Omena Cut Flowers. Taste some of the Leelanau Peninsula’s top wines at Leelanau Cellars and dine waterside at Knot Just a Bar. Visit Leelanau Sands Casino in Peshawbestown, home of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and
Chippewa Indians. Don’t Miss: Try Indigenous Northern Michigan cuisine, including homemade fry bread and wild rice soup at Raphael Foods truck in Peshawbestown.
SUTTONS BAY
Suttons Bay brings an artsy, coastal vibe with adorable local shops, popular restaurants like Wren and Martha’s Leelanau Table and the communityowned Bay Theatre with movies, concerts and live shows. Mosey down to Suttons Bay Marina to check out the schooner and school ship Inland Seas and other preserved historic boats. Hike or bike through the romantic countryside on TART’s Leelanau Trail before sipping and mingling at Hop Lot Brewing Co. Cap the evening off at Boone’s Prime Time Pub with a Massive Mary—a stein-sized bloody mary topped with a burger, olives and onion rings. Don’t Miss: Suttons Bay is an art town. Browse local galleries like Blue North Arts, Kat Dakota Art & Design and Sporck Tileart. Stock up on supplies at Suttons Bay Art Supply.
leelanau
Glen Haven
Hop Lot, Suttons Bay
Outdoor Dining: Our Patio Season Picks
by Matthew Dursum
KNOT JUST A BAR, OMENA
Dining on Omena’s Knot Just a Bar’s deck is a bucketlist Up North summer experience. Pull in by car or by boat (yes, customers get private slips). Enjoy a full bar, lunch specials, Sunday breakfast and dinner. Don’t miss the Fish Kone—fried perch and fries stacked in a paper cone—and a beer from the famous craft beer selection, best paired with daydreaming overlooking Omena Bay.
BLU, GLEN ARBOR
The menu at this fine-dining gem in Glen Arbor changes daily and features the freshest farm-to-table ingredients grown in Leelanau County. Sipping fine wine and dining on Ibérico pork rib rack lollipops or duck confit while gazing over the turquoise waters of Sleeping Bear Bay is a moment you won’t forget.
MARTHA’S LEELANAU TABLE, SUTTONS BAY
Savor farm-to-table specials, great wine and a stunning atmosphere beneath a 300-foot pine on the restaurant’s backyard patio. Lanterns and string lights cast a warm, romantic glow while live music fills the air on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. If rain rolls in, retreat to the charming covered front patio and let the evening carry on.
RICK’S CAFE AT THE COVE, LELAND
There’s nothing like sitting on the deck at Rick’s Cafe, a Fishtown icon wedged between the dam on the Leland River and the Leland Harbor. Watch fish swim in the river and boats come and go while sipping the legendary Chubby Mary: a Bloody Mary made with all the fixings—including a smoked chub stuck in, tail-down.
THE MILL GLEN ARBOR, GLEN ARBOR
On sunny days, there’s nothing like stopping by The Mill Glen Arbor for a warm and cozy bite by the river. For breakfast, enjoy expertly roasted coffee drinks and homemade pastries. For lunch, try farm-to-table creations like the turkey and white cheddar sandwich and the crave-able Banh Mi. Stay for a glass of house wine or local craft brews. Pro tip: make it a full-day event and book a table at Supper, chef Bobby Thoits’ passion project. The menu revolves around what’s local, fresh and in season. The presentation? Outstanding.
link.mynorth.com/LeelanauEats
Take a drive to The Ridge at Verterra, a sprawling outdoor tasting space on the Verterra vineyard. Enjoy seasonal releases and estate vintages while admiring gorgeous views of Lake Michigan.
The Mill Glen Arbor
Iconic Leland
These sights and activities prove that Leland is more than just Fishtown.
by Matthew Dursum
Leland is a picturesque beach town making headlines for its bucolic charm and maritime vibes. While its historic Fishtown attracts the crowds of summer, those in the know spend a day or two exploring the town’s periphery for hidden gems and inspiring moments to make their Up North dreams come true.
Picnic on the Clay Cliffs
Grab homemade pretzel bread sandwiches and treats to go at Village Cheese Shanty and drive north on M-22 to the Clay Cliffs Natural Area. Hike through the tranquil meadow and old-growth forest to the Lake Michigan overlook. Admire the wildlife and plants along the trail, including wild brambles ripening in late June. When you reach the overlook, arrange your picnic and enjoy—you’ve found your slice of Northern Michigan perfection.
Strike a Pose in Fishtown
Crowded? Sure. But historic Fishtown is worth the visit, especially for the photo ops. Order a coffee at Leland Brew and walk among the wooden shanties along the Leland River, many built in the early 1900s. Step onto the dock and snap a selfie by the fishing tugs Janice Sue and Joy
If you’re lucky, you can photograph your party in front of anglers unloading their catches.
Kiss the Chubs at The Cove
Wedged between the dam on the Leland River and Leland Harbor, The Cove is a Fishtown icon known for its Chubby Mary—a fully loaded bloody mary with house-infused horseradish vodka and all the fixings, including a smoked chub perched tail-down. Follow tradition and give it a smooch.
Rock Hunting on Van’s Beach
Van’s Beach sits south of the Leland River, facing Lake Michigan. During the fall and winter, huge waves pummel the shore, creating prime hunting grounds for rock collectors in the warmer months. Stroll the beach, scanning between the breaking waves and shoreline for Petoskey stones, unakite, Charlevoix stone and Leland Blues.
Dine and Rest at the Riverside Inn
Step inside this elegant 1902 inn and be transported back in time. Find a seat overlooking the Leland River and enjoy the menu featuring housemade pastas and rotating entrées crafted with locally sourced ingredients from nearby farms, wineries and businesses. For those who fancy historic stays, the Riverside Inn has five guest rooms on the second floor. Fall asleep to the calming sound of lapping water and get the best sleep of your life.
Clay Cliffs
Fishtown
Sleeping Bear Dunes: Off the Beaten Path
This stunning shoreline hugging Lake Michigan blends dune climbs and scenic drives with backcountry adventures unlike anywhere else on earth.
by Matthew Dursum
The secret has been out for a long time: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline on the planet. This 35-mile stretch of shoreline is nationally famous for its emerald-tinted water, towering sand dunes and heart-pounding dune climbs.
But travel a little deeper, a little farther from M-22, and you’ll find more— remnants of the area’s past, preserved orchards, romantic viewing spots and places that will captivate your heart, far from the crowds you’d expect.
Sleeping Bear Point
Many people travel to the lakeshore only to stop at the historic ghost town of Glen Haven before moving on. Hikers know: This is one of the best coastal hikes in the North.
Start at the trailhead and climb the dunes through cedar forests and juniper bushes. Swimmers can veer north to the stunning beach or continue into the wilderness. Find shade below groves of bigtooth aspen and discover ghost forests buried in sand. Deeper into the journey, you can find a lonely stretch of beach to swim, lounge or capture photos that rival Caribbean postcards.
Explore Alligator Hill
Pull into the parking lot off Stocking Road, pack plenty of snacks and water, and get ready for one of the best hikes in Leelanau County. Follow the trail through dense old-growth forests of towering maples, oaks and pines that surround you as you climb the gently sloping path.
Soon, you’ll reach the viewpoint overlooking Sleeping Bear Bay, North and South Manitou Islands and Sleeping Bear Point. Take in the views and continue to the Big Glen Lookout for a rest and picnic. If you’re tired, double
back to the parking lot, but if you still have a little gas in your tank, continue along the longer loop—a total distance of 6.2 miles through rolling hills and awe-inspiring wilderness.
Hike the Forest Trails off Pierce Stocking Drive
Beginner-friendly Shauger Hill Trail starts at the entrance to Pierce Stocking Drive. The loop goes deep into beech-maple hardwood forests, with groves of black raspberries and old-growth birch trees. A detour on the unpaved Shauger Hill Road leads you to North Bar Lake’s beach access.
Farther up the drive at the first dune overlook is the entrance to Cottonwood Trail, a moderate hike taking you deep into the dunes. Along the way are posts detailing the shoreline’s rare ecosystem and natural history. Follow the loop for views of D.H. Day Barn, aquamarine expanses of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands offshore. Pro tip: Late June to late August is peak monarch butterfly season. Step inside lonely groves of trees and you’ll be surrounded by a magical kaleidoscope.
Port Oneida Beach Trail
Take the quiet Lane Street turnoff from Port Oneida Road and park at the beach—the trail starts there. Hike up the narrow path as the views open around you. Like Northern Michigan’s miniature interpretation of Big Sur, you’ll stare over mesmerizing blue expanses and majestic pines below.
Farther up the trail, you’ll stumble upon the Werner Family Cemetery, one of the oldest in Leelanau County, preserved yet hidden amid the forest. The 19th-century graves, enclosed by a fence, sit peacefully on the bluff.
After the hike, take the trails down to the beach. Swimmers will enjoy clear water. Rock hunters will find endless colorful rocks and fossils, polished by the waves.
Cottonwood Trail
Cedar River Adventure
Northern Michigan’s version of the Everglades is a playground for outdoor adventurers looking for wildlife and solitude.
by Matthew Dursum
Imagine paddling deep into a river ecosystem with thick groves of plants and trees surrounding you. There is nobody around—just the sounds of wild animals and your own heartbeat racing heavier as you travel deeper into the heart of the Cedar River Preserve. Your adventure starts at Cedar Village Park—drop your kayak or canoe and slip into one of the wildest places left in Leelanau County.
Admire a Biodiversity Hotspot
As you paddle through the serene waterways, you’ll encounter one of Michigan’s best-preserved ecosystems and micro-habitats, with 262 native plant species. Cattails, pond lilies and groves of cedar flank your kayak. Great Blue Herons hunt for fish between matted fens in the shallows, and trained eyes can spot elusive flora and fauna like the carnivorous yellow pitcher plant, muskrats and minks.
Birdwatch in a Birder’s Paradise
Slowly glide downstream and view egrets, loons, osprey and other wetland birds. Perch on the shoals and listen to swamp sparrow calls echo over the still river. Stay on the water when the sun goes down and watch for the aerobatics of chimney swifts and listen to barred owls call.
Explore the Water Trails
Whether you’re paddling at your leisure or pushing yourself to every corner of the preserve, the slow-moving water trails serve as your aquatic open roads—you can easily paddle upstream or down. Start in Cedar and paddle downriver to the Solon Swamp. Explore the spurs and venture deep into the interior. Continue east, where the mouth of the Cedar River empties into Lake Leelanau. Go for a swim, relax or, for advanced paddlers with time to spare, continue all the way to the villages of Lake Leelanau and Leland.
Hike to Secluded Views
The Cedar River Preserve is more than just water trails. Explore the Ingraham Preserve trail—a gentle 1.3-mile uphill loop with views of the Cedar River, Solon Swamp and South Lake Leelanau.
Enjoy Photo Ops Galore
Nature photographers, take note: this pristine wetland is one of a kind. Capture rare plants illuminated in golden light, wildlife in their natural habitat and scenic views of the river and surrounding swamp. Chances are, it’ll be just you, your camera and the natural world.
Hunt for Post-Paddle Bites Nearby
Soothe your post river–exploration hunger with some in-town eats. Polish Countryside Kitchen food truck serves comfort food like pierogies, Bigos stew and smoked kielbasa. Cedar River Coffee Company offers bagels, brownies and small bites along with coffee drinks and teas. Cedar Tavern is the place to find burgers and drinks to celebrate your journey.
PHOTO BY TAYLOR BROWN
Our stores are located in some of the most beautiful and beloved resort towns along Lake Michigan’s coast. Come see us and experience our small-batch preserves and condiments, grown and made here in Northern Michigan.
HARBOR SPRINGS 125 EAST MAIN ST. PETOSKEY 411 EAST LAKE ST. CHARLEVOIX 315 BRIDGE ST.
TRAVERSE CITY 230 EAST FRONT ST. SAUGATUCK 308 BUTLER ST. SUTTONS BAY 218 NORTH SAINT JOSEPH ST.
