Four Great Lakes, to be specific: Huron, Erie, Michigan and Superior. The Terrace Inn features 38 cottage rooms (queens or two twin beds) with private baths and an awesome complimentary breakfast. Preview. The restaurant is housed in a 1880s home and has lovely decor. Great way to learn about fishing in Michigan. Located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck is a haven for visitors and locals come summertime. {I had to snap a picture while passing through inside because its neat with all the nautical gear.}. All you do is buy your ferry ticket and wait until boarding time. The views and historical importance will make the additional driving well worth it. Journey to the great Canadian North for a once-in-a-lifetime eco-adventure highlighted by four nights at an outstanding wilderness lodge run by a family of outfitters with a proven record of providing guests with the area's finest outdoor activities. 5 Step Summer Fun: How To Make Personalized Tie-Dye Towels, Things To Do In June 2023 In Southeast Michigan, How To Tube The Argo Cascades in Ann Arbor, $3 Summer Kids Series at Emagine Theatres Summer 2023. Begin with a bike ride or cross country skiing excursion, which will take you past gorgeous views of the Straits of Mackinac. Make sure to visit Fort Mackinac, it is the oldest building in Michigan. In warmer months, hop on a boat tour or take a short hike to visit Arch Rock, a unique natural bridge that draws in hundred of Mackinac visitors each year. Traverse City has an exceptional restaurant, Brasserie Amie, that I had heard about through magazine articles and from friends. The upper falls are the larger and more beautiful of the two, but the lower had an option to take a boat or go for hikes. Eat dinner at Mission Table,a farm-to-fork establishment with a tantalizing, seasonal menu and romantic fireplaces. That would be water. It certainly is not a sport for the faint of heart. With scenic routes along stunning Great Lakes coastlines and tunnels of trees over winding roads, you can plan your entire trip to be a sight-seeing adventure from beginning to end. There are nearby small airports to fly into, but the most practical way is to use a personal vehicle or rent a car from Detroit Metro Airport or a smaller local airport. The Hotel Indigo offers lovely and stylish accommodations for this leg of your Northern Michigan road trip. Rent a bicycle as the island is eight miles in circumference or rent a kayak to take in the views of the Straits of Mackinac. Not only were the views beautiful, but the food was great too! Northern Michigan trip content Articles Ultimate Itinerary: Northern Michigan Our guide to the best courses you can play around Northern Michigan, from Gaylord to Petoskey and around Traverse City. There are thousands of joys to experience in this amazing section of our state, and your perfect adventure is just waiting to be discovered. If you enjoyed our Northern Michigan itinerary, save it to Pinterest for future travel planning. The primitive hike-in tent-only campground is Jackpine. Bay City is a picturesque town located on Saginaw Bay of Lake Huron. Four of these storybook gnome villas are available to rent, but theres no time for that today: Instead, take your pictures and swing over to Michigan Beach Park, home to the lipstick-red Charlevoix South Pier Light Station. We also combined our paddle with some snorkeling over the wrecks. Take a stroll around the beautiful campus of Northern Michigan University, home to impressive architecture, lush green spaces, and a lively student community. You could spend a lot more days in Munising, Michigan and not run out of places to see and good food to eat. If that sort of thing freaks you out, this may not be the property for you. Looking to book your next trip? At the end of the road, a hearty dinner of kielbasa, pierogi, and zurek (a sour rye soup with Polish sausage and hard-boiled eggs) waits for you at the historic Legs Inn, which has been family-run since the 1920s. For my stay, we stayed theMission Point Resort. So, Im going to focus on sharing myfavoriteplace to visit: Northern Michigan. On a clear evening, its the best stargazing spot on Michigans Lower Peninsula, thanks to its near total lack of light pollution. All forums . He had been there and done that and had many stories to tell. Mackinac Island transports you to a bygone era of horse drawn carriages and historic houses making it one of the top places to visit in Northern Michigan. The views were incredible and the food was delicious. It would take days to fully explore the beauty of "the Porkies," but you can try out one of its shorter day trails and experience everything from the breathtaking Lake of the Clouds to a few stunning views of the waterfront. What makes this park so interesting is that visitors are allowed to take home the fossils that they find. Other Traverse City attractions include nearly 20 golf courses, six distilleries, and 20 breweries. But when you have the freedom of driving, you can choose to go wherever you want in Michigan. The Original Pancake HousePerfect spot for breakfast or brunch with a variety of delicious breakfast foods. The highway also cuts through the 45h parallel, the halfway point . The first stop was Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, in Empire, Michigan. Another alternative is to stroll the sun-dappled nature trail that leads to Miners Falls, a 50-foot tumbler deep in the forest. Dress appropriately, as the mine is 43 degrees. Luxury travel in France offers a robust choice of destinations in France depending on the type of trip you are desiring. I love a good road trip. After a quick walking tour of Northern Michigan University, venture out to Presque Isle Park, one of the Great Lakes States amazing natural wonders. There is a ton to see and do in Northern Michigan, but if you're limited on time, things can be overwhelming. Staffords makes excellent Cherry Praline Profiteroles (with hot fudge) for dessert, so be sure to save room. Its got its own cuisine, its own gorgeous natural attractions, and plenty of cultural traits that differ from those of the Lower Peninsula. Were well aware that this list barely scratches the surface of the Upper Peninsulas best and most beautiful attractions. I normally have no interest in sitting in a theatre and listening to people speak, but our guides were fun, entertaining and informative. Embrace that feeling of wanderlust within you and check out this list of Michigan road trips to plan your trip itinerary around the awesome mitten. Symons General StoreA deli that serves a variety of sandwiches and cheeses, along with plenty of local goods in the store. Day 3: If you dont eat a pasty when youre in the U.P., did you even go? A GEM car takes you around Charlevoix on this cool tour to see the exotic mushroom houses designed by the local artist Earl Young. If the kids werent so tired, we absolutely wouldve hit up the gnome house trail on the property. Its a lovely little spot for a half hour of sunbathing, beach combing, and general Instagramming. Join 10,000 others who get our weekly emails! Note: Petoskey is in the snow belt part of the state. You can retrace the exact itinerary I had and fall in love with this area just as I did. It makes for a beautiful presentation, too. Ready to treat yourself to a luxury vacation? If youre feeling adventurous, take a glass-bottomed boat and marvel at shipwrecks below you. Costumed interpreters shared the stories of life at Fort Mackinac circa 1780, which was the first designated National Park in the National Park System, but most recently changed to a state park. Michigan is my home; where I was born and raised. The buffet-style breakfast is included with your stay, and you wont want to miss it. Your message. Before you call it a night, take a leisurely drive to Emmet Countys Headlands International Dark Sky Park, some five miles away. Thanks to Pure Michigan for hosting my travels. Instead we had fun grabbing a cider and walking around the property. Surrounded by water, towering forests, and gorgeous beaches, this Lake Michigan beach town is the perfect destinaton for a summer or fall getaway! Two and half hours later, youll be snapping photos of a 25-foot waterfall spilling over volcanic basalt right from the roadside parking lot. If its too thick with fog, go for a 1.2-mile hike in the Estivant Pines Nature Sanctuary instead. Computers generate global weather patterns, ocean currents, and even simulate natural disasters like the 1994 Tsunami and Japan Earthquake. I had no idea this much wealth existed in this part of the Michiganeverything was so pristine. Scovies GourmetA cute restaurant great for lunch surrounded by shops and tucked away near the bridge on the main street. Most of, Last Updated on April 14, 2022 Girls Trip to Italy Italy is a fairytale country filled with delicious food, stunning landscapes, charming towns, and so. Our first stop was Charlevoix. 8 of the Most Glorious Sites for Glamping in Michigan Trip Idea Things to Do in Frankenmuth: The Ultimate Pure Michigan Guide Trip Idea How Did Michigan Cities Get Their Names? Its pretty fun walking through the ship and feeling what it might be like to be in the middle of a storm. Across the street is a tiny bookstore, Red Fox Inn,with souvenirs, clothing, and other fun items. Head over to The Landing for amazing burgers, fish & chips, and PB&J Sweet Potato Fries if you dont mind driving across town. If you would like to get out on the water, try renting kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. If you look at your right palm and point with your left index finger to about an inch below the crease of your thumb, that would be my hometown. Delicious eggs, fresh fruit, muffins, bagels, breakfast meats, and a potato casserole were some of the things to choose from, along with juice and coffee. There is a rocky beach at the Petoskey Breakwall where we searched for Petoskey Stones that we tried our hand at, but I couldnt find Green Stone in New Zealand either, so I just bought a beautiful necklace in Petoskey instead. (Be sure to call your order in an hour ahead of your arrival if you want it hot and ready to go.) This weekend, all our favorite restaurants and shops will have opened for the season. I found The Terrace Inn enchanting, with interesting nooks and crannies, bay views, and a lovely onsite restaurant. Its beautiful here and is home to the oldest operational lighthouse on Lake Superior. Day 1: Mackinac Island Flickr/Jasperdo Start out your trip at the most classic of all the U.P.'s destinations. has to offer. You can grab a spot in the sand at . And all that air around your palm? We sure missed a lot, so will be excited to go back again and explore more of the beaches and amazing things to do! We had a guide show us the mysterious sinkholes that have their own ecosystems. Traverse City, Michigan Gaylord, Michigan Charlevoix, Michigan Search Michigan Attractions After, we headed back into Harbor Springs to grab some lunch and check out the amazing downtown area. This funky, lovable town has an easily walkable downtown area that will keep you occupied all day. Once you pass over the ships, you are at the best place to see it. If you need a stop in between, keep theHorton Bay General Store in mind. Tour the Quincy Mine. I tried it. If you ever get the chance to visit Mackinaw Island in the winter (arrival by the world's shortest flight), jump at it. One of the more interesting hikes we took in Michigan was at Rockport State Park. M22 Road Trip: The Ultimate Guide. Start out your trip at the most classic of all the U.P.s destinations. This military outpost doubled as soldiers barracks for quite some time and is also the oldest building in Michigan. Youll find cherry salsa, candies, jams, syrups, and chocolates, to name a few. Leland and Lake Leelanau offer some fun shops, including Leland Gal, River & Main (a candy store), Tug Stuff, Gretas of Leland, Two Fish Gallery, The Fish Hook, and Leelanau Books. This place would be amazing to visit in the fall! Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. The northern part of Michigan's lower peninsula has just about everything you could ask for in a fall getaway. On the northwest edge of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, the small town of Traverse City is a hub for foodies, wine connoisseurs, outdoor enthusiasts, and cherry lovers. We had hoped to start our day at the Oden State Fish Hatchery, but it was closed. We booked a day with Paradise Bay Charters on Beaver Island and enjoyed some easy dives wrecks just a few meters below the surface of the water. After all, the Upper Peninsula is known for being a gorgeous outdoor wonderland. Though, along with snow comes frigid temperatures. Discover Northern Michigan | Michigan Stunning lake views. Bring your luggage with you and make your way to the ferry. At the Headlands International Dark Sky Park, we had the chance not only to see the spectacular night sky and Milky Way, but the Aurora Borealis put on a beautiful show as well. You hit the real highlights (Mackinaw Island and Petoskey are a must). Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window). This dreamy sandwich was gobbled up in no time, rich and full of delicious, salty and creamy flavors and textures. Thereve been many sightings over the years. Known as the Mountain of Sand, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore offers 64 miles of sweeping sand dunes and pristine beaches. Bay Harbor Home RentalsBeautiful coastal homes for rent. For those of you who have not been to a place that required you to leave your car and ferry across, the procedure is simple. The tour lasts one hour. (UPDATED JULY 2022) I was invited on a road trip that would not only introduce me to a part of the country I was unfamiliar with, but immediately make a Michigan fan out of me. Relax and unwind at Mission Point Resort, popping downstairs to Chianti to enjoy a memorable dinner. Otherwise, the drive there through the Tunnel of Trees is worth it in itself. (Your drive isnt over yet!). Everyone thinks you have to go to Iceland to see the northern lights, but while in Michigan, we saw them dancing in the sky. {Just note there are no restrooms hereWe changed in our van!}. Get answers to your questions about Michigan . It also reminded me I've got a bottle of cherry wine in my wine rack that's probably a decade old, so I'm guessing it's cherry vinegar by now. The altitude, incline, and slippery sand terrain appear to be difficult and it is not uncommon for people to not be able to make it back up the mountain. Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling. We are starting our tour of Northern Michigan in Charlevoix and working our way counterclockwise. Its so lifelike that they even simulate a storm on the sea. After an hour and a half in the car, youll be pleased to visit Whitefish Points Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, which offers an eerie but informative look into the history of ill-fated voyages on the Great Lakes. The temperatures may still be freezing cold. It had seen many battles and had been shelled by North Vietnam forces as well as friendly fire. The fish was light and not too fishy tasting. These stones(both rock and fossil) are flat, smooth, and have ringed (circle-like) designs in them, which is more noticeable when wet. Explore 26 buildings, 100+ exhibits and two art galleries at this top-ranked Michigan historic site. This park is home to 400 million year old Devonian Period fossils. For dinner, grab a bite to eat at Marys Bistro, a local favorite thats known for a delicious variety of meats and a truly fantastic rotisserie chicken. In warmer months, bring along your tent and settle in for some camping in the park as time allows. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the top things to see in Northern Michigan. Here is a 3-day itinerary. (Note to prospective prospectors: You can rent metal detectors here.) It is a locals fave. One of the signature elements of a mushroom house is that the stonemasonry walls have wavy eaves, which look like they have melted. If your budget allows, spend the night at Mackinacs iconic Grand Hotel. And these are the best things to do in Northern Michigan to make the most of your summer. This unique store has antiques, a tavern, and tasty looking restaurant. Behold, here are how my adventures in Northern Michigan played out. If youd like to sample a local craft beer, Mission Table has a great selection, including seasonal brews from Jolly Pumpkin. Before heading back to Detroit, (or on your way home) we are going to stop at Bay City to break up the drive. It is a cool spot with great waterfront seating and awesome service. Theres no shortage of activities to explore on Mackinac Island, and youll want to arrive bright and early to appreciate them all. See our full tour at Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix All Hobbits Welcome to Michigan! It feels like a mini vacation to the Caribbean during the height of summer with beaches, scuba diving, snorkelling and paddle boarding fun to be had. ), Our trip to Michigan is brought to you by. At the vineyards, you can opt to have a tasting or a private tour. Some of our favorite stores are Grandpa Shorters and McLean & Eakin Booksellers. It is part of the National Parks Service so you can get a stamp in your National Parks Passport, if you have one. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. We decided splurge and go on a Mushroom House Tour. Posnov/Getty Images. We had considered a few stops on our way home, but decided to take a detour to Ocqueoc Falls, which is the lower peninsulas largest waterfall with a drop of about 5 feet. For this Northern Michigan road trip itinerary, the closest affordable airport to fly into is Traverse City, whose airport is Cherry Capital Airport. Fun Fact: Ernest Hemingway wrote a lot about Petoskey and Northern Michigan in his books. Last week I wrote about our amazing time at Staffords Crooked River Lodge in Alanson. The post is not compensated, however, I did receive a gift card for Staffords Pier to use during my hosted stay. Bay Harbor is tucked between Petoskey and Charlevoix and has a gorgeous harbor-front hotel and a street next to the harbor with shopping and restaurants. If you choose to stay in town, pop in The Cantina for incredible Queso Dip and Tacos, chased by a cold margarita. Make sure to stop at the road side attraction to snap a photo of the worlds larges cherry pie pan. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. This gorgeous waterfront city is home to cute shops, a beautiful city beach, and an architectural feat the mushroom houses! Learn how your comment data is processed. Youre close enough to touch em. If you are not a scuba diver, there is a way to see the ships for yourself in Alpena, Michigan and your tour starts atGreat Lakes MaritimeHeritage Center. With a full belly, make your way back to Hotel Indigo to rest up for your final day on the Northern Michigan road trip. Pay the toll, and wind your way westward, along the northern shores of Lake Michigan via US-2. Venice's Grand Canal Is Suddenly Bright GreenHere's Why, These Amtrak Train Routes Make Stops at Some of America's Most Scenic National Parks, How to Get Through Long Lines at Airport Security as Smoothly as Possible This Summer, The 50 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the World, Our most popular newsletter for destination inspiration, travel tips, trip itineraries, and everything else you need to be an expert traveler in this beautiful world, 4 Amtrak Routes That Make for ScenicAnd AffordableSummer Getaways, How to Plan a Rocky Mountain National Park Camping Trip, A Complete Guide to Visiting Shenandoah National Park, A Guide to Sequoia National Park and King's Canyon National Park. Fort Mackinacs wide array of charming cottages, bungalows, and a New England cloned town set the stage for incredible pictures to remember this unique place. Ask a question Recent Conversations. If they cant, they must be airlifted (at a fee) from the 450-foot drop. Be sure to check out State Theatre Bijou by the Bay, a stunning historical movie theater with great neon lights that shows classic and indie films. Next came Glen Arbors Cherry Republic Great Hall mega-store in the Cherry Capital of the World. During the 1970s, this was a rocking place when rock promoter Arthur Reibel bought it and attracted high profile acts like Metallica, Bob Dillan and the Beach Boys. It is the fifth longest suspension bridge in the world. The hanging flower baskets add a special touch to the already charming landscape. Required fields are marked *. The farmers markets will be showing off their spring bounty. I honestly never appreciated it until I had the chance to get out of the state and live or explore other areas of America. We visited during the tall ships festival and we highly recommend it. It gets LOTS Of snow. The Terrace Inn is a 100+-year-old hotel that will be perfect for your stay. Any information published by Cond Nast Traveler is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Granted, this is peak season, and youll find that places are fairly busy. This mitten and rabbit-shaped state is the 11thlargest state in the United States and is also known for having the longest fresh-water coastline. Make the hourlong trip from Detroit to Ann Arbor, the home of the University of Michigan. The Upper Peninsula is overflowing with historical importance, so its difficult to visit one of the regions highlights without a bit of reminiscing. Its a perfect tour to feel what its like to hoist the sails and have the wind propel you along in silence. Perhaps the most well-known thing to do in Petoskey is to hunt for native Petoskey stones, which you will find at Magnus Park, Bayfront Park, or Petoskey State Park. With the borders locked up for a bit longer, we are feeling nostalgic about our many road trips through Michigan. ChandlersA fancier American restaurant with a large wine selection. I cannot recommend this place enough! We hiked to an abandoned quarry located just outside of Alpena where fossils litter the ground of the 300 year acres. I heard lots of stories about the extreme temps and those that stay year round. Now, there areplentyof wonderful places to explore, but theres no way I could fit it all in one post. Marys Kitchen Port, an upscale kitchen and food emporium, was my favorite. Only steps away, you may want to browse Cottage Book Shop, a cute local bookstore with plenty of souvenirs and things to buy. If youre from Michigan, you know that our Upper Peninsula is like an entirely new state to explore. Each business had the most beautiful flowers. Do some shopping in downtown Marquette and pick up a few souvenirs for your loved ones. I dont discourage you from visiting Northern Michigan in the winter, just be prepared. country. Before heading north, go 40 minutes west to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can watch hang gliders launch off the sandy bluffs towering over Lake Michigan. You can stay in Charlevoix to explore more of the downtown shopping and local attractions or drive to a great waterfront dining spot across town. Heres a perfect itinerary for one week in Michigans Upper Peninsula. At one point a cooler lid (that should never have been brought on the boat by a naughty passenger hehe, our guide) flew into the lake and the captain had to turn the boat around and do a rescue. On Day three of your Northern Michigan road trip, youll be exploring Charlevoix and Traverse City; but first, breakfast at the Terrace Inn. Painted Rocks Cruises With limited time, we recommend the Painted Rocks Scenic Cruise. Day 1: The best fuel for the long drive ahead is a hearty trail sandwich from S2S | Sugar 2 Salt, a breakfast-only eatery in Traverse City. Be sure to have a sandwich from theVillage Cheese Shanty. If you dont have a your own car and are flying into Michigan, check out. If you arent up for scuba diving, you can easily visit the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary to explore the underwater wrecks by glass bottom boat. Bay City is the smallest city on the Great Lakes to host the event and they have a great turnout. Subscribe to my newsletter to get the latest posts delivered to your inbox! After dinner, a fun option is to take a tour withPointer Boat on a pontoon boat. We had high waves during our day, so we instead explored the inland lakes which was a fantastic tour. The menu changes often, mostly seasonal. Our northern Michigan travel guide takes you through the Upper Peninsula (or the U.P. Buy it from me at 100ThingsWV@gmail.com. We have crossed the Mackinac Bridge on several occassions. The menu is in front of the tiny shop where you place your order. From there, drive 2 1/2 hours to Mackinaw City and park your car at Sheplers Ferry. Michigan's Most Abandoned Places Google Maps Flickr/Thomas Hawk This trip will lead you through everything from a spooky psychiatric facility that's long abandoned to Detroit's famous Michigan Central Station. Guided tours are offered, and it's the best way to experience the mine. Vintage Chophouse & Wine BarThis steakhouse and wine bar surrounded by breathtaking views is perfect for a special occasion. Fun and Unique Things to do in Northern Michigan, Cool and Unique Things to do In Northern Michigan, Visit a Renaissance Castle at Castle Farms, 12. Northern Michigan is really most-easily accessible by car. After, we had fun checking out some of the little shops downtown. Located off the shore of Petosky, a memorial was built to honor those who drowned at sea in Little Traverse Bay. We took the 1 PM ferry off of the island, so I had plenty of time to see more of this special place. Its such a charming place to be. If youre searching for a unique vacation destination, why not stay close to home? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly. After, we grabbed ice cream at Yummies, an adorable and independent business in town. It is just another example of how Midwest travel is where you will find some of the best adventures of your life. There are two waterfalls, the upper and lower falls. Clinch Park offers a choice of shopping boutiques and quite a few restaurants. On day two of your trip, enjoy the buffet-style breakfast included in your Mission Point Resort stay. For a breezy hike with terrific views of the Manitou Islands, follow the grassy dune crest along Sleeping Bear Point. Dubbed the Fitz by doting locals, theres a lot to love about this low-key haunt: authentic smokehouse barbecue, big picture windows offering sweeping views of Lake Superior, and one of the best craft beer menus in the country. Instead, we headed to Harbor Springs to hike at the Thorne Swift Nature Preserve. Youll also hear the local stories and history. It was SO fun to drive! Your first stop is Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) in Manistique, about two hours in. Did you know you can visit Hobbiton in Michigan. The 11th hole at Arcadia Bluffs drops 100 feet tee-to-green, finishing on a bluff above Lake Michigan. Check out Visit Alpena for the complete shipwreck paddle guide. and you can steer a slow-moving raft to the middle and back. Once you enter the dock area, you can walk from boat to boat, touring them inside and out. My favorite wines of the tasting were the Proefectus Red and Scriptorium Riesling. The expensive houseboats and waterfront homes along the drive are highly impressive. The Upper Peninsula connects to the "Mitten" (as the Lower Peninsula is sometimes called) via the 5-mile suspension Mackinac Bridge between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, and is the third largest of its kind in the world. Cond Nast Traveler does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Grab some fresh seafood at Brown Fisheries Fish House and hop in the car for a 2-hour drive to Grand Marais. While exploring Rockport State Park, take a tour in search of fossils. To play it safe, late May is usually a perfect time to visit prior to peak season. With 100 miles of trails to explore, one could spend days camping at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It was the perfect place for kids since you could get IN the water. Jacks Livery Stable is a great service provider for this tour. . Built by the vice-president of Sears, Roebuck & Company in 1918, Castle Farms has been restored to its original design. Paper Station BistroBurgers, sandwiches, salads and more! We caught a float plane to the secluded Beaver Island where the self-proclaimed King James J. Strang ruled the land as a genuine kingdom from 1848 to 1856. That all being said, Ill let you in on some Michigander-insider information where to visit in The Great Lakes State. Charlevoix is a four hour drive from Detroit and is an excellent place to start your road trip through the Great Lakes State. A private island tour is a great way to see the whole island. It's a completely different world, and a true winter wonderland. An important detail about Charlevoix is that it is on four bodies of water: Lake Michigan, Round River, Charlevoix River, and Pine River. It is a small Parisian-style brasserie that only seats a handful of diners at one time, and I lucked out with a brunch reservation. We stopped in Petoskey on our way through to check out the downtown. Charlevoix is adorable and dotted with cute cafes, souvenir shops, clothing stores, art galleries, and a killer taffy shop. Plus, not to be biased, but the rumors are true: Mid-Westerners are some of the nicest people in the country. Perfect for a quick lunch. Get notified by e-mail when a reply is posted. You can only get to Mackinac Island by ferry or plane making it a lovely tranquil escape. Adventure took ahold of my fate and brought me to my [now] husband, who leads me around the world via U.S. Air Force. It is a 30-minute drive from Petoskey to Charlevoix (char-la-voy), an adorable seaside French-sounding town. Michigan has a castle! The sanctuary spans 4300 square miles and houses an abundance of shipwrecks that you can easily explore. Lake Charlevoix was voted the second best lake in America after Lake Tahoe by USA Today. has to offer. So much that theyve been featured on the Discovery Channel and National Geographic on several occasions. With 56 miles of beaches and plenty of marinas for docking yachts, it is also considered the best lake East of the Mississippi. Historical Things to Do in Northern Michigan- Fire a Cannon! Below are a few suggestions, but there are plenty of more options! The drive up north is lovely every season but winter. A lot of work goes into identifying and finding these ships and the sanctuary is making sure that they all stay in tact for our future enjoyment. Our tour started with a power point slide show and talk. Our tour guide Mike, was a retired marine who could tell us everything about living on a ship. How good does that sound? Copper Harbor in Michigan's Keweenaw Peninsula Copper Harbor. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. I loved getting the tour because I didnt really know the history of the houses, and it was fantastic hearing it from the perspective of a local versus just driving by them. Harbor Springs is around the bay from Petoskey and is a picture-perfect small town. And next up is my favorite place of them all. Reply to: Northern Michigan Itinerary help - 4/5 days in August. The fish and chips are legendary, but make time for Munising's better-known attraction: its Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. You can also grab a delicious coffee from Leelanau Coffee Roasting Company. Up next: Munising, one hour away. The Great Lakes can be unpredictable for kayaking so if you arent experienced, it is advisable to hire a guide. Thank you! Many visitors also enjoy checking out the areas multiple hiking trails, which give way to everything from waterfalls to sweeping views of Lake Superior. Lake Superior has never looked more gorgeous, and youll want to stay forever. M-119 is known as the "Tunnel of Trees" in Northern Michigan. If you plan a special trip in the future, I hope you will come to see the stunning landscape, beauty, and unique attractions in Northern Michigan. Last Updated on April 13, 2022 Domestic Travel to Michigan Michigan is an off-the-beaten-path US destination that many out-of-towners just associate with Detroit and being, Last Updated on April 14, 2022 Las Vegas Bucket List Trip This iconic city is on many peoples bucket lists. From here, youre a two-minute drive to Fitzgeralds Hotel & Restaurant in Mohawk. Marie. I think it will surprise you. Typically, there are slushy, dirty piles of snow along the roads. Divers may also want to visit the only freshwater shrine in the world. Our crew of three was an impressive bunch. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine, the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field. Being a military spouse has raised its challenges, but has taken me on some of the most incredible adventures in places I never thought I would step foot. The waters off the coast of Alpena are some of the worst on the Great Lakes. Have you been to other places that we missed? Alpena is another great town to spend some time in. There are many to choose from and some have great deals throughout the year! This course was AMAZING and easy enough with young kids to hold their attention. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of the most beautifulplaces to visit in Michigan. It has extraordinary sandstone cliffs, sea kayaking, hiking, and other watersports, you could spend more than a day here if you wanted. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum is an excellent stop to learn of the maritime history of Lake Superior. Order the straight-from-the-lake whitefish at carnival-casual food stand The Fish Basket. We are starting our tour of Northern Michigan in Charlevoix and working our way counterclockwise. So, wed like to hear from you: which towns, parks, activities, and excursions would you include during your ideal weeklong visit to the U.P.? Its about an hour away. The Old Presqueile Lighthouse dates back to 1837. He was on his way to the bank to deposit the weekend ticket sales when he was shot and killed by Johnny Woo. If you believe in ghosts and watch a lot of horror films, youll agree as Floyd is probably haunting the theatre because his real killer was never found. I thought the tour may be boring for the kids, but they really enjoyed it! Wade ankle-deep into the freezing Michigan crystal-clear waters knowing that you will come out with a handful of these beauties. The natural cold spring, located in the 388-acre Palms Book State Park, is so crystal clear you can see 40 feet to the bottom. M22 is the most iconic highway in Michigan. Thats pretty vague, I know, but below I will provide a 3-day itinerary that will hit each of my favorite spots. Below are six must-see sights on a Northern Michigan road trip: 6 Must-See Sights on a Northern Michigan Road Trip Mackinac Island Mackinac Island holds a special place in my heart, as I have many memories there as a young girl, whether horseback riding through the forests or sitting along the shoreline eating a piece of fresh fudge. Or, if youre feeling especially unprepared to head back to "real life" (and can afford a few extra days off from work), grab your own map of the Upper Peninsula and start plotting for the next leg of your trip. Jutting out on a long peninsula of Lake Superior we took a detour from our route to see the lighthouse museum. Located in Southern Nevada, Las, Last Updated on April 14, 2022 Easy Escape: Cruise from LA to Mexico Hopping on a cruise is quite honestly one of the easiest and, Last Updated on July 29, 2022 New York at Christmastime New York at Christmastime is the most magical season to explore the city. Fly into Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), about 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, via Delta, American, and United. Love Michigan? The Inn at Grey GablesFor a fancier sit-down meal, The Inn at Grey Gables is a wonderful option. While you can go mountain biking and hiking along the trails, it is when you step off the path that you find something truly unique. At first we were upset that the entire top deck was full but in the end it all worked out. One thing I loved about it was the artwork. Driving back, we opted for the long way through the Tunnel of Trees {M-119}. The fall foliage is the main draw, though. Divers will love the clear waters of Lake Huron that range from shallow dives at just a few inches below the water (snorkelers can visit too) to deep dives into the depths of the Great Lake. That French PlaceLike the name, this cute French place offers all kinds of crepes and pastries. It was my first time trying rabbit, and Mission Table did an excellent job. Here is what we recommend: Need more help planning your trip? This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. The spring is loaded with trout (but no fishing allowed!) If you are able to go when its open, go! Overall, we had a blast exploring northern Michigan and loved having Staffords Crooked River Lodge as our home base. The chimneys and roofs are almost always a dead giveaway. Dont stay too long, though; you have one more town to reach before nightfalland thats Marquette, 48 minutes west. You can rent all your gear including wetsuits, paddle boards, and snorkeling gear from local dive shops and hire a guide. Like I mentioned, there aretonsof wonderful places to visit in Northern Michigan, but I am only listing my few favorites. Next, make your way to downtown Petoskey to check out the local shops, Crooked Tree Arts Center, or one of the many tastings available in this hip little area. Something we loved about Kayaking at Beaver Island was the fact that there are good lakes on the island when the weather is bad. Do some shopping at one of its many fair trade shops, where you'll . I may be biased, since Ive been visiting this part of Northern Michigan since I was a little girl, but my go-to spots are all within a half-hour drive. Late Summer into early Autumn is another wonderful time. Stand on the nearby pedestrian bridge for the best views. Its such an amazing underwater treasure that its attracted the likes ofJean-MichelCousteau and the discoverer of the Titanic, Robert Ballard. Another must is Douds Market, a family-owned Mackinac Island grocery opened in 1884. From there, drive 2 1/2 hours to Mackinaw City and park your car at Shepler's Ferry. Mighty Fine PizzaLike the name, their pizza is, indeed, mighty fine. Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a busy park with excellent waterfalls. Lived in Michigan for 48 glorious summers and bone-chilling winters (summers are easy; winters, you just survive), and your journey took me to all the places I know so well. Weve been here before, so didnt spend as much time here as I wouldve liked. Grab dinner downtown, head back to your lodging and rest up: youve got a full day of outdoor excursions planned for tomorrow. Our itinerary focuses on five areas of Michigan we thought would have the best color in early October. Make sure to hire a guide to take you around Bay City. Re: Northern Michigan Itinerary help - 4/5 days in August. ModuleNorthern Michigan is a legendary Midwest getaway, possibly regarded as a "hidden gem" nationally, but its allure dates back to the late-19th century as Chicagoans and Detroiters escaped their . 34 Amazing Things to Do in Oregon in 2023. Before dinner, drive to the Mission Point Lighthouse, which is closed but still a great photo opportunity. Rent a kayak to explore Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The best part was going right down to the beach and checking out rocks {do not take them here though}. He was eventually murdered by two men that he sentenced to be flogged and once gone, the residents of the surrounding settlements overthrew his followers so that today, Beaver Island is a beautiful oasis in Lake Michigan. Where are your kids favorite spots in northern Michigan? 2023 Cond Nast. Piersons Grill & SpiritsA ski-themed restaurant and bar with classic pub fare. To move, to breathe, to fly, to float, to gain all while you give, to roam the roads of lands remote, to travel is to live. It was originally put there in 1962 as a memorial to a local scuba diver who died, but it was expanded to all who have died since there have been so many shipwrecks in the Great Lakes. Filed Under: Travel Tagged With: Petoskey Michigan, Your email address will not be published. Northern Michigan is one of the deepest and affordable golf destinations on earth. But don't worry: visitors of all ages will be charmed by Marquette. Staffords Pier RestaurantPopular for their seafood, but also some of the best views in town right next to the harbor. Your first stop after departing Marquette should be Irontown Pasties in Negaunee, just 12 miles west. Hands down, Summer (June through September) is my favorite time in Northern Michigan. Youre now in U.P. You will see all the memorabilia from its glory days on a tour. You can join a packed sightseeing boat that runs up and down a waterfront roughly the size of Manhattan, but a less expensive, more intimate way to experience the scenery is by renting a kayak at Miners Castle Beach and paddling out to the same painted caves and color-shifting sandstone cliffs those tourists are photographing from the top deck. Wonderful piece, and a real trip down memory lane for me! The 27.5-mile stretch of heritage highway, which links Harbor Springs to Cross Village, is spectacularly scenic: dense hardwood forest and Hallmark-movie hamlets spliced with views of Lake Michigan. Beaver Island is the largest island on Lake Michigan and there are a ton of things to do there. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. Some have seen great battles others have not. This awesome part of the state has to be one of Michigans best-hidden gems. The famous Arch Rock and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Visitors and locals alike rave about the brews and the service, and youll be just as delighted. Pigs Eatin RibsA popular BBQ joint with a delectable selection of barbecued meats. Theres no better way to see these unique formations along the shoreline, which boast an otherworldly beauty that cant be seen anywhere else in the state of Michigan. Charlevoix is a picturesque town with a lovely waterfront, microbrew pubs, restaurants and beaches. Unfortunately, a seven-day trip doesnt allot enough time to explore all the incredible attractions of the Keweenaw Peninsula but, if youre able, take a drive northward to see the sights at Copper Harbor. We have lived in Italy, South Korea, and now currently stationed in Las Vegas. After a few hours on the trail, load up the car and begin your journey home. Making our way to the other side of Michigans Mitt, we now make a base in Alpena to explore all the places to go up north Michigan on the Lake Huron side. Just make sure to wear water shoes as it can be slippery and pack a life vest if you dont have strong swimmers. Your email address will not be published. The colors are absolutely stunning! The kids LOVE putt putt, so we opted to drive out of town to check out Pirates Cove Adventure Golf. Its not easy turning a sailboat of that size around and rescuing an inanimate object, but they made it look easy and within a few minutes we were back out to sea. Brandon Tucker/Golf Advisor. We finally drove back to the lodge, stopping along the way for some carryout pizza. Another great excursion on Beaver Island is to go kayaking with Happy Paddle. Many ships went down in these waters and with 116 Shipwreck in the area, it was declared a National Marine Sanctuary in 2000. . We started with breakfast at the hotel, which was amazing. Fishtown was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. If the weather holds, take the 20-minute drive up Brockway Mountain, one of the highest paved road between the Rockies and the Alleghenies. This Northern Michigan island is known as the "Fudge Capital", with eateries like Murdick's Fudge, where you can see the fudge made right before you. I had never been here, and I was blown away at how quaint it was. A little lesser-known, but full of magic, somehow work Grand . Today you can take a tour of the mushroom houses to see the 28 buildings that are still standing today. $22.50 + $3 (S&H). This 500-mile road trip starts in Traverse City and ends in Copper Harbor, bridging Michigans Upper and Lower Peninsulas, while visiting three out of five Great Lakes. Duffys Garage & GrilleA pub with delicious pizza. Google Maps Of course, you should adjust the amount of time spent in each location as you see fit and remember that it would take far more than seven days to experience everything that the U.P. Be sure to bring your mask and fins! They are still both pronounced Mac-kin-aw. From this vantage point 735 feet above Copper Harbor, you can see Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior more than 50 miles away. But in all seriousness, you can go kayaking anywhere in Michigan, with four of the five Great Lakes located within Michigan, it truly is the land of freshwater. If you are planning on going on a glass bottom boat tour, I recommend being on the bottom. The 550-acre woodland preserve is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Its a really mellow trip and if youve spent a lot of time on boats this trip probably isnt for you, but we talked to many people on the tour who had never been on a sail boat before. I ordered a Raspberry French Soda (so refreshing!) Drift Destinations FacebookPinterestInstagram Search HOME Services Design Process Inspire BLOGOpen menu Africa Asia Europe North America Military Travel Military Spouse Journal Wellness Travel Travel Fitness 1. On the way, we stopped at Pond Hill Farm, which was recommended to us many times. The winters can be incredibly beautiful with blankets and blankets of snow. Read our community guidelines. there are so many things to do in northern Michigan to fill up your summer. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Lighthouses played a huge role in helping ships with navigation on the Great Lakes. Vacation destination, why not use these Resources that are tried and by. Your road trip through the great Lakes, to name a few hours on the Lakes. Voted the second best Lake in America after Lake Tahoe by USA today and National Geographic on occasions. 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