During your vacation to the Petoskey Area, you’ll also want to take a break from the same ole chain stores offering the same ole stuff. The shops and boutiques here are a treasure-trove of items you won’t find anywhere else.
Window shop in our charming waterfront communities. Meander in and out of delightful shops. While you’re browsing, take your time. There’s no rush and the sales staff (and often the shop owner) will be glad to answer any questions you may have.
Here are a few of the many places we think are well worth exploring.
Boyne City:
HomeAgain – This is a high-end resale shop with a bit of this, a bit of that, and a super well-stocked inventory. Stop by for a new-to-you piece of clothing, an antique or a fun memento of days gone by. Bonus? Sales at the shop benefit our four-legged friends at the Charlevoix Area Humane Society.
Inspired Living – Fun. Exciting. Eclectic. You may not think you need anything, but you’ll change your mind within minutes of entering this long-time downtown shop. Specialty teas, kid’s items, purses, jewelry and more mean every member of the family will most likely be inspired to leave with something.
Harbor Springs:
Boyer Glassworks – Gorgeous blown glass with the chance to watch the beautiful pieces being made. Harry Boyer is a true artisan who creates and teaches. Don’t miss the shop’s annual Great Lakes Pumpkin Patch Day each October in cooperation with another shopper’s gem, Three Pines Studio in Cross Village. New for 2022, we’re delighted to share Three Pines’ efforts to aid those in the Ukraine.
Hanni Gallery – If you can’t find something to buy at Hanni Gallery, you’re in the minority of those who wander into the artistic paradise. Jewelry, paintings, handmade soaps – indulge your senses and make someone’s day. Spend a little or a lot – you’ll find pieces in both categories.
Bay Harbor:
The Village at Bay Harbor – Shops change seasonally, but always offer a variety of chic clothing, art and accessories. Stop in and see what’s new while you’re in the area. Find a handcrafted cocktail at Mammoth Distilling or grab a great breakfast at Maple + Batter.
Petoskey:
Poetess and Stranger – This new addition to Petoskey claims this mission statement: “It is our aim to grow our region’s access to natural, ethically made and traded goods by creating and maintaining a retail environment where openness, equality, sustainability and representation matters.” How to elaborate on that? I’ll just tell you it’s just plain darn wonderful. Stop in and see for yourself.
Ward & Eis – There’s simply nowhere else like Ward & Eis. The store features wonderful fine leather purses, belts and cases and lovely handmade jewelry. Be sure to make your way to the back of the boutique where you’ll find phenomenal Native American quill boxes and animal carvings.
These stores offer an experience, a chance to browse and an opportunity to be treated to some northern Michigan hospitality. While you’re at it, take a break at a coffee shop (Birch Tree Bakery & Cafe in Harbor Springs is new and sooooo good!), winery or one of the many cozy little restaurants in these communities. That’s the way shopping is meant to be.
