Places You MUST SEE in Northern Michigan
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I don’t know about you, but this weather has me so excited for summer. And, there is nothing more “summer” than Northern Michigan. From the beautiful blues and greens of the water to the quaint towns, Northern Michigan is a must see. Here are some of the places we visited last summer… (If one peaks your interest, just click on the name of the town for a more in-depth and specific Mackinaw Road post on the area.)
Charlevoix… Just look at that emerald green water… if that’s all that was there, that would be enough. There are however, the added bonuses of an adorable and shop-worthy town, walkability, the Big Lake, Inland Lakes, water sports, fishing and boating.
Leland… Again, the water could not be any more gorgeous. The town is adorable and there some great food options… And, of course, the unique and whimsical shopping area that is Fishtown.
Petoskey/Bay Harbor… You will be immediately enchanted by this gorgeous slice of heaven. The clear water, the search for Petoskey stones, running/biking trails, multiply delicious eateries, cute shops, and luxurious places to stay… you really can’t go wrong in Petoskey.
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Traverse City… What would spring/summer be without at least one trip to Traverse City? Old Mission Peninsula with it’s breathtaking bay views, expansive wineries, and lovely restaurants is a must. The downtown is also a fun diversion should you tire of all of the water activities this city has to offer. (Click for where to eat and where to wine.)
From Traverse City (or any of these towns), you might as well/definitely should head up to Mackinaw Island for stunning views, lovely bike paths, and a glimpse back in time (cars are not allowed on the island).
And don’t forget to comment below or head over to my polls in InstaStories to let me know what Northern Michigan towns you’d like to learn more about this summer. I’m thinking Glen Arbor and Sutton’s Bay need to be on the list.
10 Comments
Mayuri
Didn’t know North Michigan has so much unique things to offer. Your pictures are beautiful, if I hadn’t read the article I would think it’s some street/place in Europe!
One of my friends lives in Michigan and but I never visited, well now I have a bigger better reason to ask my family to come see with me
Mackinaw Road
Yes! You should definitely come to visit your friend, especially in the summer and/or fall. Northern Michigan is so beautiful that it is difficult to take a bad pic 😉
Marquita
I have heard of Traverse City before as I believe it was my sister-in-law who has previously visited. Regardless who it was, I heard it was beautiful! What is the quickest way for people to get there from outside of Michigan?
Mackinaw Road
Oh that’s so great! When our friends from out of state go Up North, they typically fly into Traverse City. You could also fly into Grand Rapids and rent a car to drive the 2 1/2 hours-ish to Traverse City.
Thelittlelai: Beyond limits
The Bay harbor looks like really an interesting place and would definitely love to try the biking trails and the cafes nearby. Truly, Northern Michigan has so much to offer and would definitely include this in my bucket list. Thank you so much for sharing this with us!
Mackinaw Road
Thanks so much for your kind words! Yes, great outdoor activities and cafes abound in Northern Michigan 🙂
Rachelle Gordon
To be honest, I’ve never really considered Northern Michigan as a summer destination. However, after seeing the cute towns and that amazingly blue and green water…I just might have to change my tune! Petoskey seems like a cool place that has a lot to offer. I get bored easily just sitting on a beach, so this might be more my style!
Mackinaw Road
There are so many great outdoor activities in Northern Michigan– we rarely just sit on the beach when we’re up there (and I’m admittedly a total beach bum :).
Followingtherivera
Wow, there are some great places here. I’ve not been to Michigan, so this is useful!
Mackinaw Road
It’s amazing- especially in the summer!