Frankfort, Michigan | Lake Michigan Destinations

Explore Frankfort, Michigan!

The city of Frankfort lies 35 miles north of Manistee and sits along Lake Michigan in Benzie County. Frankfort is a popular stop along the Lake Michigan Circle Tour, which continues north up to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Top Things to Do and See in Frankfort

Point Betsie Lighthouse: The Point Betsie Lighthouse is a famous landmark in Benzie County and a real attraction for visitors and residents alike. Located five miles north of Frankfort and along the Lake Michigan Circle Tour, the lighthouse sits at the southern entrance to the Manitou Passage and was first lit in October 1858. It sits 52 feet above the lake with a range of about 15 miles. The white tower is attached to the lighthouse keepers quarters, with an apartment that can be rented by the week. In addition to the exhibits on the local history, tours are available for one of the most photographed lighthouses in Michigan.

Betsie Lake: Emptying into Lake Michigan and nestled between Frankfort and Elberta, Bestie Lake is great for fishing.

Betsie Valley Trail: This 22 mile trails begins in Frankfort and Elberta and travels through Beulah and all the way to Thompsonville, great for bicyclists and pedestrians.

The Garden Theater: Built in 1923, the theater was recently renovated and shows a variety of films. Downtown Frankfort Visitors love the downtown area of Frankfort, filled with galleries, apparel, specialty shops and unique restaurants. Betsie Lake can be seen from downtown; enjoy a meal on the deck of the Fusion or Coho Cafe while you take in the boats that glide into the harbor. It’s a quiet type of town, with large, Victorian houses along tree-lined streets. The historic Garden Theater shows a variety of feature and independent films. You won’t want to just drive through Frankfort — make time to stop and appreciate this special town.

Point Betsie Lighthouse by Brad Reed
“Point Betsie Reflections” | Todd & Brad Reed Photography

For more travel information about Frankfort, Michigan, please contact this tourism resource:

Frankfort-Elberta Area Chamber of Commerce
517 Main Street
Frankfort, MI 49635
(231) 352-7251

frankfort-elberta.com

Benzie County Visitors Bureau
826 Michigan Avenue
Benzonia, MI 49616
(800) 882-5801

visitbenzie.com

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