Go on a self-guided or guided tour of Charlevoix’s iconic Mushroom Houses, the stone creations of Earl Young. Built over five decades (from the 1920s to the 1970s), these 26+ enchanting homes—affectionately nicknamed “Gnome Homes,” “Hobbit Houses,” or “Mushroom Houses”—blend seamlessly into their surroundings, using boulders, limestone, cedar shakes, and flowing, curved lines that are a must see.
Take a self-guided tour and enjoy the beauty of lavender fields and gardens, explore an enchanting fairy garden, observe honeybees, and take in the charm of the historic property. They have more than 30 varieties of lavender on 33 acres!
Located downtown near the harbor, Cherry Republic is a must-visit for all things cherry! Stop by to sample cherry wine, chocolates, salsas, and more—made from Michigan’s famous Montmorency cherries. This is a favorite stop for Lauren and Lars!
Just 2.5 miles from downtown, Blu Dot is a charming, small-batch winery tucked between Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan. Enjoy wine flights, snacks, and yard games in a laid-back outdoor setting—perfect for a sunny afternoon with friends and family!
Just north of town, Mt. McSauba Beach is a peaceful spot known for its rocks, soft sand, and sand dunes. Stroll the shore and keep an eye out for Charlevoix and Petoskey stones—nature’s souvenirs from Northern Michigan!