Petoskey is our favorite town in Northern Michigan! See below for a sample half-day itinerary that incorporates some of our favorite places and things to do!

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Breakfast at Sam's Graces Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Sam's Graces Cafe. This popular local café offers a variety of breakfast options, from hearty breakfast burritos to fresh pastries, along with excellent coffee and a cozy atmosphere.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Explore Downtown Petoskey Stroll through the historic Gaslight District, known for its charming shops, galleries, and boutiques. Pop into McLean & Eakin Booksellers, a beloved independent bookstore (and our favorite bookstore anywhere!), or browse unique gifts and souvenirs at one of the many specialty stores, like home goods at Cutler's and clothing at Craig Ryan.

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Visit the Little Traverse History Museum Head to the Little Traverse History Museum, located in an old train depot along the waterfront. The museum offers fascinating exhibits about the region's history, including its Native American heritage, the lumbering era, and the development of Petoskey as a resort town.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch at City Park Grill Enjoy a leisurely lunch at City Park Grill, a historic restaurant dating back to 1875. Savor local dishes like whitefish or one of their famous burgers while soaking in the ambiance of this well-preserved establishment.

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Walk Along the Bear River Valley Recreation Area Conclude your half-day with a relaxing walk along the Bear River Valley Recreation Area. This picturesque spot offers scenic trails along the Bear River, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of Northern Michigan.

The tunnel of trees and surrounding area are not to be missed! It's one of the most beautiful drives in Michigan! Here is a sample all-day itinerary, highlighting some of the best spots along the route!

9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: Breakfast at Johan's Pastry Shop in Petoskey Start your day with breakfast at Johan's Pastry Shop in Petoskey. Enjoy fresh pastries, donuts, and coffee to fuel up for the scenic drive ahead.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Depart Petoskey and Head to Harbor Springs Drive from Petoskey to Harbor Springs, a charming town located about 15 minutes away. Take some time to explore the town, maybe grab a coffee or take a short walk along the waterfront.

11:00 AM: Begin the Tunnel of Trees Drive (M-119) Start your journey on M-119, the Tunnel of Trees Scenic Heritage Route. This 20-mile stretch of road offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, dense forests, and beautiful countryside. The road is narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the ride.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Stop at Pond Hill Farm Approximately halfway through the Tunnel of Trees, you'll find Pond Hill Farm. This is a great spot to take a break, stretch your legs, and explore. Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at the Garden Café, visit the livestock barn, and sample some local wine or hard cider.

1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: Continue the Drive to Good Hart Continue your drive north towards Good Hart. This quaint village is home to the historic Good Hart General Store, where you can browse for unique gifts, homemade jams, and fresh baked goods. Don't forget to grab a slice of their famous pot pie!

2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Explore Thorne Swift Nature Preserve Just a short drive from Good Hart, Thorne Swift Nature Preserve offers a peaceful stop with a nature trail leading to a boardwalk and beach. Enjoy a walk through the woods and take in the stunning views of Lake Michigan.

3:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Arrive at Cross Village Finish your drive in Cross Village, at the northern end of the Tunnel of Trees. Visit Legs Inn, a historic restaurant with quirky decor and a beautiful garden overlooking Lake Michigan. Even if you're not hungry, it's worth stopping by for the views and photo opportunities.

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Return to Petoskey Head back to Petoskey via US-31, a more direct route that offers its own scenic views. This should take about an hour, giving you a relaxed drive back to where you started.

For the golfers in attendance, we highly recommend a round at Belvedere! Located in Charlevoix, Michigan, the club holds a rich history dating back to its founding in 1925 by renowned Scottish architect Willie Watson. Situated on a historic farmstead, the course was crafted in the classic style, embodying the golden age of golf architecture. Over the years, Belvedere has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the Michigan Amateur Championship and the USGA Senior Amateur Championship. The course's layout has remained largely unchanged, offering golfers a timeless and challenging experience that highlights the natural beauty of the northern Michigan landscape. Today, Belvedere Golf Club stands as a testament to its storied past, attracting golf enthusiasts from around the world to its historic fairways.