When it comes to a summer vacation spot in Michigan, put Petoskey toward the top of your list! It has everything to offer for a family-friendly trip as well as a romantic getaway for two. Restaurants, beaches, breweries, lake activities, etc. You will never get bored!
I was engaged and married in this city (East Park & Stafford’s Bay View Inn), I have had dates with my husband and fun days with my friends here. There is never a moment I don’t appreciate the view and breeze off the lake. You will find a friendly, small-town feel ready to welcome you with open arms. Don’t forget to search for your very own Petoskey stone!
3 FAVORITE RESTAURANTS
Beards Brewery | 215 E Lake St, 231-753-2221
Great atmosphere for a Luna beer and some Lake Side French Fries.
Stafford’s Bay View Inn | 2011 Woodland Ave, 231-347-2771
You don’t have to be a guest here to dine in and indulge in one of the best brunch spots Petoskey has to offer. Afterwards, take a walk down by the lake or through their lovely memorial garden.
The Terrance Inn and 1911 Restaurant | 1549 Glendale Ave, 231-347-2410
Interested in some haunted history? This place is chock-full. Dress up for a classy dinner with a glass of wine and delight in the rich history of the city.
4 FAVORITE FREE ATTRACTIONS
Little Traverse Wheelway | 1687 M-119 (Harbor-Petoskey Rd), 231-348-8280
A 26-mile asphalt bike path that travels from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs. Rest rooms are along the way as well as restaurants off the main road. The path follows the shore of Lake Michigan. Top of Michigan Trails Council information is linked above for location points.
Petoskey State Park | 2475 M-119 (Harbor-Petoskey Rd), 231-347-2311
Looking for a sandy beach? You found it! Two campgrounds are also located in this state park, but only one is open at the moment. A recreation pass is required.
East Park | Quarry Drive (GPS: 45° 22.19280, -85° 0.31620)
Gorgeous trails and panoramic views of Bay Harbor. No pass required. Rest rooms available as well as picnic tables. Great place to relax and enjoy your day!
Kid’s Fishing Pond | Located in Bay Front Park
The Lime Kiln Pond is a great place to teach all the fishing basics!
3 FAVORITE PAID ATTRACTIONS
Odawa Casino | 1760 Lears Rd, 877-442-6464
Feeling lucky? Double down at Odawa Casino, which is also attached to Odawa Hotel.
Plumber’s Helper Charter Fishing | 832 Front St, 231-357-3413
“If you don’t catch fish, you don’t pay!”
Bahnhof Sport Rentals | 1300 Bay View Road, 231-347-2112
Kayak, stand-up paddle board, and bicycle rentals. Rentals are in increments of 3 hours, 1 day, 3 days, and weekly.
FAVORITE PLACES TO STAY
Crooked Tree Cottages | 600 Crooked Tree Dr, Bay Harbor, 877-347-2399
Ideal for golfers, located on the 18th green of the Golf Club; a peaceful place to lay your head.
Stafford’s Perry Hotel | 100 Lewis St, 231-347-4000
A charming hotel with on-site dining. This hotel also has a haunted history you can learn about; many guests have written their experiences in the room guest journals.
UpNorth Getaway – airbnb
A family friendly apartment, with a 5-star Superhost, located “almost in the heart of the city.”
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SWEET TREATS
Johan’s Pastry Shop | 565 W Mitchell St, 231-347-3815
I live for donuts and this place has them! They also made my wedding cake. They can pretty much do anything and it is all delicious.
FAVORITE PLACE FOR SOUVENIRS
Harbor Wear | 319 E Lake St, 231-347-2664
Located in downtown Petoskey, this is a great store to grab t-shirts, sweatshirts, and small trinkets.
FAVORITE COFFEE SHOP
Roast & Toast | 560 W Mitchell St, 231-347-7767
Located in downtown Petoskey, this coffee shop has a great atmosphere and great drinks as well as a lunch, breakfast, and bakery menu. I love their seasonal drinks!
BONUS TIPS TO PETOSKEY
- Approximate Travel Time: From the Detroit area, approximately, four hours.
- Petoskey was Ernest Hemingway’s old stomping grounds.
- Summer farmers markets are abundant!
- Petoskey is a short drive from Boyne Mountain.
- Be sure to visit the lighthouse!
