Top Unique Experiences and Activities in Northern Michigan

Cool and Unique Things to do In Northern Michigan

Michigan, it’s right in our own backyard. Growing up on the Great Lakes in Ontario, crossing the border at Detroit was a regular event. Back in 2020, border crossings became a rarity, and nostalgia set in as we reminisced about road trips through Michigan. Consequently, we decided to share the coolest experiences in Northern Michigan that we believe will surprise and inspire you.

1. Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a charming town boasting a picturesque waterfront, microbrew pubs, eateries, and beaches—making it an ideal starting point for exploring Northern Michigan’s top attractions.

• We enjoyed our stay at Edgewater Inn located downtown Charlevoix, which was conveniently close to major attractions. Check TripAdvisor for details.
• If you’re flying into Michigan, consider utilizing RentalCars.com to compare rental car prices and secure your wheels.

2. Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix

Did you know that you can experience Hobbiton right in Michigan? In Charlevoix, you can tour amazing mushroom houses designed by Earl Young, who created 30 unique homes in the area over 30 years. A guided tour will take you to the 28 existing buildings that showcase his remarkable work. See more about this unique architecture here.

Visit a Renaissance Castle at Castle Farms

Discover Michigan’s very own castle! Castle Farms, located just outside Charlevoix, is a stunning French Renaissance castle built in 1918. Once a popular venue for concerts during the 1970s, visitors can explore memorabilia from its rock ‘n’ roll days. For more information, visit their website.

3. Follow the Footsteps of Hemingway

Ernest Hemingway spent formative years in Upper Michigan, and exploring the mushroom houses in Charlevoix shows how intertwined his life was with this beautiful region. Discover the locations he frequented, including his marriage certificate on display at the Harsha House and a trail featuring 11 of Hemingway’s favorite spots in Michigan.

4. Petoskey, Michigan

Petoskey was home to 21 of Hemingway’s summers, where you can follow the Hemingway Trail. Sites of interest include the Perry Hotel, Potter’s Rooming House, and his beloved fishing spot at Horton Creek, offering a fascinating glimpse into the local history and culture.

5. Search for Petoskey Stones

We cherished our time cycling along waterfront trails in Petoskey, searching for the iconic Petoskey Stones, and exploring the charming downtown area. A rocky beach at the Petoskey Breakwall provided the perfect backdrop for our treasure hunt; however, our search for the elusive Green Stone in New Zealand continued to be a challenge!

6. Watch the Northern Lights

Did you know you can see the Northern Lights in Michigan? While in Michigan, we were fortunate to witness the Aurora Borealis at the Headlands International Dark Sky Park, an ideal spot for stargazing and enjoying breathtaking views of the night sky.

7. Visit the Second Best Lake in America

Lake Charlevoix has earned the title of the second-best lake in America, trailing only Lake Tahoe according to USA Today. With 56 miles of beaches and numerous marinas, it offers a pristine aquatic experience.

8. Visit the Kingdom of Beaver Island

On the topic of unique destinations, Beaver Island, the largest island on Lake Michigan, was once home to a self-proclaimed kingdom. Visitors can explore this beautiful oasis where King James J. Strang ruled from 1848 to 1856. Learn more about Beaver Island at the official website.

• We stayed at the Harbourview Hotel, but for more adventurous travelers, camping options are also available.

9. Kayaking at Beaver Island

For those seeking adventure, kayaking at Beaver Island is a fantastic option. With the Great Lakes’ unpredictable weather, it’s advisable to hire a guide. We had wonderful experiences exploring inland lakes when the weather turned rough.

10. World-Class Scuba Diving

While in Beaver Island, consider scuba diving at the wrecks of Lake Michigan. The fresh water beautifully preserves these wrecks, and we enjoyed diving with Paradise Bay Charters, where dives are just a few meters below the surface. Find out more about diving adventures at Paradise Bay Dive Shop.

11. Freshwater Shrine

Divers might also want to visit the only freshwater shrine in the world, situated off the shore of Petoskey. Originally established in 1962 as a memorial for a local diver, it honors all who have tragically drowned in Little Traverse Bay due to numerous shipwrecks in the Great Lakes.

12. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

This breathtaking area is renowned for its sweeping sand dunes and pristine beaches, spanning 64 miles. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail runs 22 miles, perfect for hiking and cycling through stunning natural beauty.

13. Mackinac Island

Transport yourself back in time as you explore Mackinac Island, accessible only by ferry or plane. Don’t miss Fort Mackinac, Michigan’s oldest building, featuring reenactments of military battles from the 1800s.

Other things to do in Mackinac Island

• Rent a bicycle to explore the island, which is eight miles in circumference.
• Indulge in the famous Mackinac Island fudge.
• Tour the stunning Grand Hotel.
• Visit the enchanting Butterfly House.
• Witness the jaw-dropping views from Arch Rock.
• Learn about the island’s history while touring Fort Mackinac, where you might even fire a cannon!

14. Mackinac Bridge

We have crossed the iconic Mackinac Bridge on several occasions. Contrary to popular belief, this bridge does not lead to Mackinac Island. Be sure to stop at Bridge View Park for a spectacular photo of the fifth-longest suspension bridge in the world.

15. Old Presque Isle Lighthouse

As one of Northern Michigan’s many lighthouses, the Old Presque Isle Lighthouse dates back to 1837 and served to navigate the waters of the Great Lakes.

16. Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Tahquamenon Falls is a must-see destination featuring stunning waterfalls that resemble a mini Niagara Falls. The park is perfect for a full day of hiking, swimming, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

17. Whitefish Point

Whitefish Point features a historic lighthouse museum where visitors can learn about the maritime history of Lake Superior. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum showcases the oldest operational lighthouse on Lake Superior.

18. Pictured Rocks

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is an extraordinary gem in Michigan, featuring 100 miles of trails, stunning sandstone cliffs, and a variety of watersports. For those with limited time, the Painted Rocks Scenic Cruise is an excellent way to experience the beauty of the area.

19. Alpena

As we move across Michigan’s Mitt to the Lake Huron side, Alpena offers ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. This quaint town is full of attractions that are waiting to be discovered.

20. Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

For those not keen on scuba diving, the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary allows visitors to explore underwater wrecks by glass-bottom boat. The sanctuary boasts a vast array of shipwrecks, making it a diver’s paradise.

21. Glass Bottom Boat Tour

If you prefer to see the underwater sites without scuba gear, you can take a glass-bottom boat tour starting at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center. Our tour was fascinating, led by knowledgeable marine archaeologists who engage visitors through their expertise.

22. Stand up Paddle Boarding SUP

Enjoy the thrill of stand-up paddle boarding near shipwrecks in Alpena. Starting your paddle from Waterworks Park, you can easily find wrecks just offshore. Combine your paddleboarding with snorkeling, renting all necessary gear from local dive shops.

23. Rockport State Recreation Area

Embark on an intriguing hike at Rockport State Park, where you can explore bike trails and, with a guide, discover mysterious sinkholes with unique ecosystems.

24. Hunt for Fossils

Rockport State Park also offers fossil hunting opportunities, with well-preserved fossils from the Devonian Period. Visitors can take home any fossils they find, making it an educational and exciting experience.

25. Bay City

On your way back to Detroit, consider a stop in Bay City, a charming locale on Saginaw Bay that offers a variety of attractions and activities.

Tall Ships Festival

We visited during the Tall Ships Festival, where majestic tall ships gathered to display their sails and history. Bay City is the smallest city on the Great Lakes to host this event, fostering a vibrant maritime atmosphere.

26. The USS Edson

If the Tall Ships Festival isn’t taking place, you can explore the USS Edson, a battleship docked permanently in Bay City. Our tour guide, a retired marine, regaled us with stories from the ship’s storied past.

27. Regent Theater

Hire a guide to explore Bay City and uncover ghost stories, such as that of Floyd, the ghost of the Regent Theatre manager who was tragically shot in the 1940s.

28. Go Sailing

If you’ve never sailed, evening excursions offer a relaxing experience. Our crew was fantastic, and we were able to participate in sailing activities while enjoying the beauty of the lakes.

29. Traverse City

No trip to Northern Michigan is complete without stopping in Traverse City, the cherry capital of the world. Known for its picturesque cherry blossoms, be sure to visit during blossom season for stunning photos at the world’s largest cherry pie pan!

These are just a few of the amazing experiences awaiting you in Northern Michigan. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local history, this region offers something for everyone.

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