Duncan and Emma
Northern Michigan Recommendations
Short's Brewing Company Pull Barn
It's not the Bellaire flagship, but Short's has opened a small beer garden at their production facility in Elk Rapids. The original pub is located at 121 North Bridge St. Bellaire, MI 49615 if you're a super fan. Cheers!
Chef Charles’
Best pizza on the planet. Don't @ us.
Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen
Our mouths are watering just thinking about that gumbo, and don't let anyone tell you it's not ok to fill up on the bread (it's jalapeno cornbread, y'all).
Cellar 152
In downtown Elk Rapids, and just across from the reception venue. Try the tater kegs, you won't regret it.
Old Mission Lighthouse Park
Duncan grew up on Old Mission Peninsula, and this area means a lot to him. The lighthouse is at the very tip of the peninsula. Amazing views of both bays; it is definitely worth the drive. Pro Tip: stop at Jolly Pumpkin for a snack or a beer!
2 Lads Winery
Amazing views, and great wine. Plus it will take you out on Old Mission Peninsula. Stop in to other wineries along the way! Pro Tip: try their sparkling Pinot Grigio
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
This used to be the Traverse City State Hospital, a state run asylum built in the late 1800's that was shut down in the mid- 1900's. It has since been redeveloped into an amazing mixed-use space, with housing, restaurants and shops. We recommend taking the full tour, but also just bop around and explore! Just behind the buildings are amazing hiking trails, as well.
Rare Bird Brewpub
The spot of our "second" first date. Make sure you try their "Blood Orange You Witty" and/or "Ginger Bear." We promise you'll find something you love.
MAWBY Vineyards and Winery
There are so many great wineries and excuses to explore the Leelanau Peninsula, this is just one of our favorites. They produce almost exclusively sparkling wines, so a great place to pop some bottles (as Snoop-Dawg would say).
Pyramid Point
A quick and beautiful hike that leads to a stunning bluff overlooking Lake Michigan. For a better map, visit: https://www.nps.gov/slbe/planyourvisit/trailpyramidpt.htm (Pro Tip: this is a great alternative if you aren't ready to fully commit to the Sleeping Bear Dunes climb).
The Little Fleet
Little Fleet is the HANG (which means it may be crowded). There is an indoor bar slingin' tons of great local brews and drinks, and several (sometimes) rotating food trucks, so there is literally something for everyone. Tons of great outdoor seating; it's a great place to meet up with friends if you aren't sure what you're feeling or want options. You're going to want to steal their glasses, they're so cute- but please don't!!
Rose & Fern Cafe
If you like brunch, you will like Rose and Fern Cafe. DON'T SLEEP ON THE COFFEE, either.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Our local TC friends will laugh we added this, but for our non-local friends it's a can't miss. The Sleeping Bear Dunes is a National Lakeshore just outside of Glen Arbor. The full dune hike (to Lake Michigan) is approximately 4 miles, but these are rolling sand dunes, y'all- it'll take you 3-4 hours. It's worth it, we promise, but you will ask yourselves at least 6 times "surely the lake is just beyond the next dune" and it won't be. The history/myth behind the Dunes is fascinating (and sad), so be sure to read up on the Legend of the Sleeping Bear Dunes if you have time. Pro tip: there are some great lil' ice cream shops in Empire to reward yourself if you make it all the way (or if you don't, we don't judge).
Maple Bay Natural Area
This is an amazing beach/natural area just along Hwy 31 between Traverse City and Elk Rapids. It's a little "off the beaten path" and is typically tourist-free. You may run into some local rock hunters (AKA: Paul(a) Moyer). The walk to the beach from the parking area is short- grab some take out and set up a picnic on the beach!
Moomers Homemade Ice Cream
This is an ice cream shop that's located ON the dairy farm the milk comes from. There will be a wait, but that means it's good. Moomers is a national treasure.