Things To Do

Frankfort North Pier Lighthouse

Point Betsie Lighthouse

Pyramid Point Trail

The Pyramid Point Trail leads to a high, panoramic view of Lake Michigan, half a mile from the trailhead. This is one of the best views of the Manitou islands (~5 miles offshore) and the waters of the Manitou Passage. For a quick hike, you can turn and head back the way you came. For a longer hike, turn east from the dune overlook for a winding walk through meadows and forest.

Empire Bluff Trail

We invite all guests to meet Paige and Austin for a hike on this trail on Friday morning (see "Schedule" page for details). The trail is 1.5-miles round trip with some moderate hills through a beech-maple forest, and ends with a spectacular view of Lake Michigan at the top. You won't want to miss it :-)

Arcadia Scenic Turnout

Scenic turnout just south of Frankfort overlooking Lake Michigan and the town of Arcadia. Parking, restrooms, and observation decks are available. Great picture spot with easy access by car!

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Pierce Stocking scenic drive offers a 7.4-mile loop with beautiful views of Lake Michigan, the Glen Lakes, and the dunes, much of which can be seen entirely from the car. There are several opportunities to stop and walk short distances to lookouts along the way.

Dune Climb

Wide, windswept sand dunes for hiking, running, and climbing with an optional 3.5-mile round trip trail to Lake Michigan.

Crescent Bakery & Cafe

One-stop shop for doughnuts, bread, baked goods, and coffee in the morning, with sandwiches at lunch time.

The Roadhouse Mexican Bar & Grill

Traditional Mexican fare with both indoor and outdoor patio seating. Recommend arriving for an early dinner as this is a popular spot that does not accept reservations.

Vita Bella Italian Kitchen and Market

Located in downtown Frankfort, Vita Bella serves authentic Italian dishes with options for indoor and outdoor seating available.

Stormcloud Brewing Company

Offers a variety of soups, salads, sandwiches, and flatbread pizzas in an upbeat atmosphere in downtown Frankfort.

A Papano's Pizza

Look no further than Papano's to satisfy your pizza craving, with two convenient locations at either end of Crystal Lake (Frankfort and Beulah).

The Scoop of Frankfort

A favorite of Paige and Austin's, The Scoop is located in downtown Frankfort and serves delicious Moomers Homemade ice cream. Fun fact: Moomers was named "America's Best Scoop" by Good Morning America in 2008!

Shipwreck Cafe

Sandwich, salad, and soup shop in Empire near the beach and Empire Bluff Trail.

Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor

If you like cherries, you have to visit Cherry Republic! Michigan's Northwest Lower Peninsula is the largest producer of tart cherries in the United States, and Cherry Republic celebrates this fact through its 200+ cherry-based products, including (but not limited to) chocolate-covered cherries, BBQ sauces, jams, jellies, salsas, nut mixes, baked goods, condiments... the list goes on! The headquarters is located in Glen Arbor, which is ~ 30-minute drive north from Frankfort, but is well worth the trip.