Local Area
Local Area
Discover the best local attractions near the charming towns of Harbor Springs and Petoskey while staying at The Highlands. Experience the scenic beauty of Lake Michigan, local beaches, breweries, wineries, and outdoor adventures. Perfect for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts!
Explore
One smell and you'll know why this company ships their sweets all over the world! Tours are offered during the summer months.
Find informative guided hatchery tours, self-guided hiking/nature trails, interpretive exhibits, and interactive displays. Hatchery tours and nature trails are open from May through October.
These "stones" are chunks of fossilized coral thought to be 350 million years old. The best hunting places are at Petoskey State Park and Magnus City Park. No license is required.
This is a working farm, market, and greenhouse. The market features unique canned items, organic vegetables, meats, and fish.
Hands-on museum with an emphasis on science, history, and the arts. Includes live animal exhibits and many activities.
See the beauty of Northern Michigan from a bird’s eye view as you peacefully fly back to earth with your parachute.
Beaches
- Zoll Street Beach, Harbor Springs
- Zorn Park, Harbor Springs
- Magnus City Park Beach, Petoskey
- Petoskey State Park, Petoskey
- West Park Beach, Bay Harbor
- Bliss Township Beach, Bliss
- Cross Village Beach, Cross Village
- Good Hart Beach, Good Hart
- Readmond Township Beach, Good Hart
Boat Tours, Charters, & Ferries
Provides passage from Charlevoix to Beaver Island (32 miles). Also offers guided tours of "America's Emerald Isle". Operates from mid-April to December.
This five-minute, 100-yard voyage across the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix saves visitors a 15-mile drive. Generally operates from mid-April to mid-November.
Trout and salmon charters.
The Shepler family has been ferrying vacationers to historic Mackinac Island. for three generations. Ferry operates May through October.
The largest modern fleet serving Mackinac Island and offering sunset cruises. Operates from May to October.
Two-hour sailing adventures mid-June through Labor Day leaving from the marina in Charlevoix.
Trout, salmon, and steelhead charters.
Tours by appointment for up to six passengers on Lake Charlevoix, Lake Michigan, and Little Traverse Bay. Perfect for fall colors tours!
Connecting Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Bay Harbor with passenger ferry services from May to September on Little Traverse Bay.
Bowling
Arcade action along with bowling, billiards, and laser tag
Breweries
Located in the heart of downtown Petoskey, Beards offers a low-key environment to enjoy a pint or two.
Originally opened as the Petoskey Brewing Company in 1898 this historic building owes its unique stature to the brewing practices of the late 19th century. Closed in 1915, it wasn't until 2012 that beer once again flowed within the walls of the "Old Brewery."
Casino
Guests will find more than 1,500 loose slot machines, dozens of Las Vegas-style table games, dining, and unique shopping.
Fishing
Guided fishing tours. The walk & wade trips are a great way for you and your friends to hike up some waders and explore northern Michigan's world-class fisheries up close and personal.
Hiking
More than seven different trail systems in Charlevoix and Emmet counties are protected by the Little Traverse Conservancy.
The trail runs from Charlevoix on U.S. 31 through Bay Harbor and Bay View. In Petoskey, the path winds through beautiful Bayfront Park. 29 miles from start to finish, a small segment on-road on U.S. 31.
Historical Sites & Museums
The former home of this important figure in history is now the Andrew Blackbird Museum. The museum is committed to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Indian customs, arts, crafts, music, poetry, and language. Open year-round.
This century-old Victorian community of nearly 500 cottages is a National Historic Landmark. Summer programs include concerts, theater, operas, lectures, recreational programs, educational classes, and religious services which are open to the public.
The Harbor Springs Area Historical Society is pleased to welcome visitors to its new home located in the former city hall. Please call for scheduled hours of operation.
On Petoskey's beautiful waterfront, this museum is the restored Pere Marquette train depot. Exhibits feature Ernest Hemingway's life, Odawa Indian artifacts, and the history of the region. Open May to September.
This awesome 55-foot cross was made from a redwood tree. In 1959, the 7-ton, 28-foot crucifix was raised into place.
Miniature Golf
18-hole adventure golf. Roller racers, twin spin, inflatable bouncer, and snack bar
18 holes set among the mysteries of the pirate world.
Movie Theatre
- 1540 Anderson Road, Petoskey
- 1275 East Main Street, Harbor Springs
Performing Arts
This century-old Victorian community of nearly 500 cottages is a National Historic Landmark. Summer programs include concerts, theater, operas, lectures, recreational programs, educational classes, and religious services which are open to the public.
Enjoy art shows in the gallery area; concerts, recitals, and performing arts in the theater. Annual performances by the Little Traverse Civic Theatre. Original works by local artists are on sale. Classes, lessons, and workshops
The Center's mission is to inspire, entertain, educate, and serve all in Northern Michigan year-round by presenting exceptional experiences across the full spectrum of the performing arts and offering impactful educational opportunities.
Waterpark
This 88,000-square-foot mega-park features six waterslides, a shallow children's pool, wet climbing wall, activity pools, a lazy river, hot tubs, a huge arcade, and the Rip Zone surf simulator - all indoors!
Wineries
Enjoy delicious wines and hard cider in a beautiful tasting room located at Pond Hill Farm. Sample award-winning wine and enjoy a delicious lunch created using produce and meats harvested onsite.
Enriching life with exceptional wine, Mackinaw Trail Winery offers a 28-acre vineyard, winery, and tasting room.
The Petoskey Wine Region is made up of 14 unique wineries, located along the Little Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan coastal region. If you are planning a day trip or weekend excursion, the Petoskey Wine Region offers an excellent blend of rustic to trendy tasting rooms and vineyards that rival the wine trails of Napa Valley.