Photo by the Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau
Northern Michigan at It's Best!
The Little Traverse Bay area of Northern Michigan has been attracting visitors to its shores for more than a century. And it is no surprise that this part of Northern Michigan continues to draw visitors and summer residents today. What could be more alluring that the brilliant blue waters of Lake Michigan, glorious beaches, charming small communities, and a myriad of activities that could fill every day from dawn until dusk.
History
In the late 1800s, steamships brought summer guests to Northern Michigan where they could escape the heat and humidity. The deep, protected waters of Little Traverse Bay were perfect for the steamships. In later years, it was trains and then cars that brought guests to this glorious part of Michigan. Today, guests arrive by car, plane, or boat and once they arrive, they know they are in for a treat.
Year ‘Round Fun!
The beauty of Northern Michigan is so stunning that if often gives visitors an “Aahh” moment. The communities of Petoskey, Harbor Springs, Charlevoix, Boyne City, Mackinaw City, and Mackinac Island have so much to offer year ’round. If you are looking for a beautiful setting with a variety of outdoor activities plus fabulous lodging, dining, and shopping- well, this is where you will find all that plus more. Visit Northern Michigan year ’round!
Delightful Destinations
If you are planning a visit Up North or already here, spend some time looking at all the information that we have here for you on this website. Visiting Petoskey, Charlevoix, or Harbor Springs, Boyne City, Mackinaw City or Mackinac Island? There is much to see and do in these two communities! Want to go sailing, kayaking, biking, or or hunt for Petoskey stones?
Unique Experiences
How about hear some great music at Bay View, view art at Crooked Tree Arts Center, or learn about the area’s past at the Harbor Springs History Museum?
Winter Up North is a delight, a Currier & Ives countryside filled with skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing and cross country skiing, sledding and iceskating and snowmobiling.
Northern Michigan is the perfect place to go to the beach, hike the dunes at the Petoskey State Park or explore the preserves of the Little Traverse Conservancy. Explore all of the great information here for you and enjoy your stay Up North!
Destinations Up North
Activities & Attractions in Northern Michigan

Ride the Breezeway Scenic Highway Between Atwood & Boyne Falls
This 28-mile scenic highway running between Atwood and Boyne Falls known as the Breezeway draws visitors because it is gorgeous.

Sledding and Ice Skating in Northern Michigan
Get the sleds and the skates out, put on the cold weather clothes, and enjoy sledding and ice skating in Northern Michigan.

Petoskey’s Bear River Valley Recreation Area
This 36 acre, 1.5 mile long Bear River Valley in Petoskey is truly spectacular and filled with natural beauty and things to do.

Charlevoix Circle of Arts
The Charlevoix Circle of Arts is a vibrant, cultural center in downtown Charlevoix that presents six major visual exhibits annually.

Petoskey State Park
Petoskey State Park is one of the premier destinations for campers and outdoor lovers and is tucked away between Petoskey and Harbor Springs.

Downtown Mackinac Island
Get off the ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace to Mackinac Island and the first thing you’ll see is the historic downtown area.

Cross Country Skiing in Charlevoix & Boyne City
With woods, dunes, and frozen lakes, the trails near Charlevoix and Boyne City are the places to cross country ski from December-March.

Northern Michigan Lighthouses
In Northern Michigan, you’ll find lighthouses where lighthouse keepers once lived and worked that have been restored and are open to visitors.

Little Traverse Conservancy in Harbor Springs
Little Traverse Conservancy protects land and scenic areas and provides opportunities for all of us to appreciate the environment.

Little Traverse History Museum in Petoskey
Within the historic Chicago/West Michigan railroad depot in Petoskey, the Little Traverse History Museum is a history filled gem.