Things To Do
Empire Bluff Trail
A short, moderate hike that's only about a 15 minute drive from Frankfort and offers beautiful views of Sleeping Bear Dunes. Trail is part of The Sleeping Bear National Park.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
A must see if you have some time to explore - Sleeping Bear Dunes are in Glen Arbor, about a 30 minute drive from Frankfort. The hike to the lake takes about ~2.5 hours, but there's also a scenic drive (Pierce Stocking Drive) that takes you to all the best lookout spots.
Point Betsie Lighthouse
An historic and picturesque lighthouse on Lake Michigan that's also a great spot to make a bonfire! About a 10 minute drive from downtown Frankfort. Tours available.
Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail
If you're looking for a cool day trip from Frankfort, we recommend checking out the Old Mission Peninsula-it's about a 1-hour drive from Frankfort. Old Mission Peninsula is a scenic 19-mile-long strip of land extending into Grand Traverse Bay near Traverse City, Michigan. Famous for its rolling vineyards, cherry orchards, and over 42 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, it is a premier destination for wine tasting, scenic drives, and historic sightseeing along the 45th parallel. Fiona's favorite is Bonobo, but you really can't go wrong with any you choose! Highly recommend Mari Vineyards (Beth’s favorite) Brys Estate, Bower’s Harbor as well. There is also a great brewery called Jolly Pumpkin. There is a charming lighthouse at the northernmost point.
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club
This is a stunning golf course (Char's favorite!) about 20-30 minutes outside of Frankfort. It has scenic views of lake Michigan throughout and a lovely clubhouse with a bar and formal dining room. Tee times book up very far in advance, so please visit the website to book yours ASAP! Fiona's pro tip for non-golfers: Head here after a hike on the Arcadia Marsh and/or Old Baldy Trail, grab your drink of choice from the bar, and sit in the Adirondack chairs to take in the view of the course and Lake Michigan.
Old Baldy Trail
Hike the trails and enjoy the majestic views from "Old Baldy", a dune overlooking Lake Michigan. Type "Baldy Trailhead" into your navigation app to reach the parking lot and trailhead. The trail is inside the The CS Mott Nature Preserve. If you're coming from Frankfort, you should see a sign to turn into the parking lot Arcadia Dunes Baldy Trailhead on your right. It is close to Arcadia Bluff Golf Course so highly recommend a hike and then a drink or lunch at Arcadia Bluffs. If you're feeling up to it, we recommend stopping by Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club afterwards for a scenic drink or meal.
Crystal Lake Golf Course
This course has great views of Crystal Lake and tends to have more openings than Arcadia bluffs. Reasonably priced. Great for players of all levels who are looking for a fun, casual golf outing.
Pinecroft Golf Course
This is another nice golf course with lake views and reasonable rates.
Arcadia Marsh Nature Preserve
Beautiful and accessible marshland. Very easy hike- all on a boardwalk and places to sit. Great place to take in wildlife and a popular spot for birders. It is close to Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course. Great food trucks near the trailhead.
Old Indian Trail
Closest trail to Frankfort in the large Sleeping Bear NationalLakeshore. Only about 10 minutes away. Beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Betsie Valley Trail
Gorgeous and fairly easy biking trail that connects Frankfort to Beulah on the opposite side of Crystal Lake. Rent bikes in Frankfort at Coastline Cycles and grab a beer and snack at 5 Shores Brewery in Beulah.
Coastline Cycles
Great place to rent bikes/e-bikes to ride the Betsie Trail. Gorgeous views and breweries on both ends of trail!
Market Square Park
Pickleball! Public park in Frankfort that has drop in play every morning. If you would like to play with your own group then need to play after noon.