Go have a beer at Michigan's top craft brewery. There is indoor seating as well as an outdoor patio and grassy area with games. There are food trucks available most days or get local pizza delivered to the Pull Barn!
Grab a slice from Elk Rapids' favorite gourmet pizzeria. This spot is a local staple with delicious pizza.
In the mood for amazing cajun food? Head to Pearls' for dinner to enjoy a cherry margarita and blackened alligator.
Happy Camper is the BEST place for coffee in Elk Rapids. This spot is perfectly located looking over the river and iconic white bridge. Perfect place to sit and sip or grab a coffee to go.
The main breakfast joint in Elk Rapids. Great option for breakfast and lunch or even grab and go options.
Looking for cocktails with locally distilled liquor and a cool, edgy ambiance? Ethanology is the place to be. Sit outside on their industrial style patio or go up the spiral staircase to the book and vinyl lounge to enjoy a (strong) craft cocktail.
This park includes beach front, great playgrounds, tennis courts, and a basketball court.
The "Day Park" is a great activity that includes art sculptures throughout the trails leading down to a beach front on Grand Traverse Bay.
If you're in the mood for a drive, wander over to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a main feature of Northern Michigan. Pack a picnic and check out the amazing views of Lake Michigan.
A main attraction of the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore is the dune climb. Hike up sand dunes to explore great views and a fun adventure back down.
Take a short hike up to a gorgeous scenic overlook of Lake Michigan. The hike is just under a mile hike to the overlook or opt for the full 2.7 mile loop. Very doable for most adults and children.
Take a short hike down to the waterfront on Grand Traverse Bay. Maple Bay is just 5 miles south of Elk Rapids. A great place to rock hunt for Petoskey Stones!
Looking to stay put? If you're staying on the White Birch Lodge property, enjoy their amenities such as beach access, access to Elk Lake, paddle boards, kayaks, bonfires, tennis courts, etc.