Things To Do
Take in the Views of Lake Charlevoix & Lake Michigan
Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan have several beautiful piers, walkways, and beaches worth exploring across Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Boyne City. Visit the Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse, the Petoskey Breakwall or East Park, or make a trip to Boyne City for a beach walk with breathtaking views at Young State Park followed by a meal in downtown Boyne City, where you'll find more beautiful views of Lake Charlevoix from Sunset Park and Veterans Park. The lakes and beaches are beautiful- regardless of the time of year!
Charlevoix Mushroom Houses
Explore the hobbit-like architectural wonder of the "mushroom houses" of Charlevoix. The homes are private residences, but these make for a great walking tour paired with a visit to the stunning Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse that guards the entrance of Lake Charlevoix to the great Lake Michigan.
Our Favorite Hike: Avalanche Preserve
Hike the 462 steps to the top of Avalanche Mountain for a panoramic view of Lake Charlevoix. This is our favorite hike because of the spectacular view! The Preserve also offers other hiking and mountain biking trails and a disc golf course. If you enjoy hiking/biking, we encourage you to research the area- the region has many trails and nature preserves worth exploring.
Boyne Mountain Resort
Boyne Mountain Resort offers lodging, a spa facility, and many outdoor activities for your adventurous side! Summer activities begin May 15. Check out their website to learn more about summer chairlift rides, ziplining, biking/hiking, horseback riding, and more! Boyne also has the LARGEST suspension skybridge in the world. Learn more at boynemountain.com/skybridge-michigan.
Lavender Hill Farm
The Lavender Farm offers walking trails, farm tours, and a boutique shop with the most delightful lavender creations. The farm also hosts frequent workshops and events. The summer season begins Mid-May, check their website for live music performances, yoga, and workshop opportunities.
Shopping & Dining Northern Michigan
Second only to the lake views are the idyllic towns of Northern Michigan. Spend an afternoon wandering the shops of Charlevoix, Petoskey, or Boyne City. Each town has it's own distinct charm, boasting boutique shops, quaint coffee shops, wineries, farmer's markets, and fine dining. Bride & Groom favorites: Coffee at Roast & Toast (Petoskey), Brunch at Cafe Sante (Boyne City), Ice Cream at Kilwins (various locations OR tour the chocolate factory in Petoskey), Art Exhibits at the Crooked Tree Arts Center (Petoskey), wine at Provisions Lounge (Boyne City) or Petoskey Farms, Happy Hour at Barrel Back Restaurant (Walloon Lake), and dining at the Weathervane (Charlevoix).
Day Trip: Mackinac Island
If you're arriving days prior to the wedding or staying after, consider fitting in a trip to the world renowned Mackinac Island (home of the Grand Hotel). Step back in time on an island where cars are not permitted, and enjoy the pace of exploring the island's spectacular views, history, and idyllic shops by horse drawn carriage, bike (rent on island), and on foot. RECOMMENDED ITINERARY: Drive to Mackinaw City in the morning (1 hr drive from Charlevoix/45 mins from Petoskey), Take ferry boat to the island, rent bikes and bike around the island (check out Arch Rock), have lunch (and fudge!) downtown, take a carriage tour of the island to learn about the history, and Ferry back in the late afternoon/evening.