One-of-a-Kind Fun: Things To Do in Petoskey MI

The neighboring northern Michigan communities of Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor and Boyne City are known for their lakeside beauty, Victorian charm and unhurried pace. But it’s their uncommonly cool attractions that make vacations here even more special and memorable.

Take a look at the Top 8 Unique Petoskey Attractions. These are things you just won’t find anywhere else. And after all, discovering new places and enjoying new experiences is a big part of what vacations are all about.

Put on your walking shoes and explore 300-plus acres of beautiful woodlands in Avalanche Mountain Preserve. Climb up the 462 steps to the top of Avalanche Mountain for an incredible view of Lake Charlevoix.
Splash into something incredibly fun in the Bear River Recreation Area. This scenic natural park features a roaring whitewater trail for those looking for adventure, nature trails and a bike trail.
Let the good times roll on the Little Traverse Wheelway. This paved, 26-mile bike trail goes from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix, and leads through parks, the elegant community of Bay Harbor and historic Bay View.
From here, you can see forever. Scenic chairlift rides are available at both the Boyne Mountain Resort in Boyne Falls and Boyne Highlands Resort in Harbor Springs. Enjoy breathtaking views as you ride to the top and back down Michigan’s most famous ski areas.
You’ll feel like royalty when you visit Castle Farms in nearby Charlevoix. Tour this magnificent French Renaissance castle, stunning formal gardens, and courtyard chapels.
See the night sky like you’ve never seen it before at The Headlands by Mackinaw City. The view of the stars is unbeatable in this 600-acre forested gem along Lake Michigan that is free from light pollution. The Headlands is one of only 13 International Dark Sky Parks in the U.S.
Go with the flow on the Inland Waterway. The 38-mile waterway has been called “One of the most beautiful small boat trips in the country.” Rent a boat at Crooked Lake then enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Michigan’s largest chain of rivers and lakes.
To top off your vacation, go Petoskey Stone hunting. The Petoskey Stone is Michigan’s state stone (and our namesake). Here’s a tip: while they can be found wherever rocks turn up, the best hunting are the beaches at Petoskey State Park and Magnus Park.

With so many fun things to do, you’re going to want to spend at least a couple days in Petoskey, Michigan. So here’s some more good news. There are more than 2,800 rooms in the area, and the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau can help you find the one that’s perfect for you.

About the author

Diane Dakins is passionate about all of the communities that comprise the Petoskey Area of Michigan: Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Bay Harbor and Boyne City. As assistant director of the Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, she has “been there – seen that” when it comes to virtually every area attraction. She strives to create informative content that gives potential visitors the scoop on planning a northern Michigan vacation.