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Discover Northern Michigan

There’s nothing like being “Up North” and we think you will want to linger in this beautiful region, filled with outstanding Lake Michigan Destinations. 

In addition to visiting the travel destinations below, don’t miss a trip along the Tunnel of Trees from Harbor Springs to Cross Village.

Visit These Northern Michigan Destinations

Lake Michigan water

Emmet County, Michigan

Emmet County is located in Northern Michigan at the “tip of the Mitt” and is an area where you can enjoy all four seasons.

Lake Michigan water

Charlevoix County, Michigan

Charlevoix County is located in Northern Michigan and includes communities like Charlevoix, Boyne City, and East Jordan.

Lake Michigan water

Antrim County, Michigan

Antrim County is located in Northwest Michigan and is a water wonderland, with places like Torch Lake, Elk Lake, and Grand Traverse Bay.

Boyne City, Michigan

Boyne City is a jewel in the crown of Michigan and boasts an art district, street music in the summer, the Morel Festival, and more.

Beaver Island, Michigan

Beaver Island Michigan is located in Lake Michigan. It is the largest island in Lake Michigan and the third largest island in Michigan

Harbor Springs, Michigan

Situated on a beautiful natural, deep harbor, this beautiful community has fabulous shopping and dining options overlooking the water.

Elk Rapids, Michigan

Elk Rapids has plenty of activities to do with many people enjoying boating, beaches, fishing, and other water sports.

Charlevoix, Michigan

The sight of the bustling community of Charlevoix, nestled between Lake Michigan and Round Lake, is simply beautiful.

Petoskey, Michigan

Petoskey is nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay and is a destination because it has so much to offer.

Mackinac Bridge Mackinaw City

Mackinaw City, Michigan

With Lake Michigan on one side and Lake Huron on the other side, Mackinaw City is a true Great Lakes highlight.

Northern Michigan Lighthouses

From Charlevoix north to the Straits of Mackinac, there are many lighthouses to visit!

 

Charlevoix South Pier lighthouse in Charlevoix, Michigan

Charlevoix’s South Pierhead Lighthouse
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  • South Pier Lighthouse, Charlevoix
  • Beaver Island Head Light, Beaver Island
  • Paradise Bay Harbor Light, Beaver Island
  • Petoskey Lighthouse, Petoskey
  • Little Traverse Lighthouse, Harbor Springs
  • Squaw Island Lighthouse, Squaw Island
  • Lansing Shoal Light, Newton Township
  • Skillagalee Lighthouse, Ile Aux Galets
  • Gray’s Reef Lighthouse, Mackinaw City
  • White Shoal Lighthouse, Mackinaw City
  • St. Helena Island Lighthouse, Mackinaw City
  • Waugoshance Shoal Light, Mackinaw City
  • McGulpin Point Lighthouse, Mackinaw City
  • Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, Mackinaw City

Traveling the Lake Michigan Circle Tour in Northern Michigan

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.

After exiting Traverse City on US-31, head north 17 miles to Elk Rapids along the Grand Traverse Bay. Elk Rapids is physically split by Elk River with beautiful places to walk and a bustling downtown area. The next town you will reach is Charlevoix, 33 miles north of Elk Rapids. Continue following US-31, now headed northeast, for 17 miles to the city of Petoskey.

After Petoskey, the Lake Michigan Circle Tour continues on US-31 all the way to the Mackinac Bridge to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This segment of the Lake Michigan Circle Tour does not follow the coast closely but rather cuts through the central part of the state. From Mackinaw City to St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula, the Lake Michigan Circle Tour is joined by the Lake Huron Circle Tour.

While no highway closely follows the Michigan shoreline north of Petoskey, there are a couple of destinations worth the detour. Highway M-119, popularly known as the Tunnel of Trees, is a beautiful drive. In the fall, the colors are breathtaking and draw travelers from all around. This is near the city of Harbor Springs, a popular spot for tourists. On the west side of the tip of the Lower Peninsula is the grand Wilderness State Park with over 10,000 protected acres and over 26 miles of shorelines.

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!

Discover More Lake Michigan Destinations

Leland, Michigan

The charming town of Leland is a great “walking around” town. Spend the day exploring Historical Fishtown, local wineries, beaches, and more!

Silver Lake Sand Dunes

Silver Lake Sand Dunes, Michigan

Silver Lake Sand Dunes offers sand dune adventures and much more! Ride the dunes, splash in Silver Lake, and enjoy the expansive dune views!

Arcadia, Michigan

While a small town, Arcadia has a lot to offer the adventurous outdoors-man with great fishing, boating, and golfing opportunities.

Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay is on the southern tip of a narrow estuary off the western coast of Lake Michigan and has great fishing and other activities.

Winthrop Harbor

Egg Harbor, Wisconsin

Egg Harbor is known as one of the best small towns in America. It boasts a new marina and an expanded, freshly renovated beach.