Originally a simple village in 1871, Charlevoix had blossomed into an established city by 1905. A genuine beauty by the water, Charlevoix lies along picture-perfect Lake Michigan, Round Lake, and Lake Charlevoix and offers a multitude of tall trees, rich wooded landscapes, beautiful bodies of sparkling lakes, and vast greenery. Charlevoix is unmatched in its fresh-air environment. Even celebrated American author Ernest Hemingway spent his summers in Horton Bay just a 15-minute drive from the city. If your curiosity is peaked and you want to discover first-hand this beguiling city’s potential then you must scroll down to see things to do in Charlevoix, Michigan.
1. Admire the fanciful architecture of Earl Young Mushroom Houses
Oozing with whimsical features, the historic collection of Earl Young Mushroom Houses adds a true fairy-tale aspect to this city. Designed to blend with the surrounding natural landscape, these houses boast expert stonemasonry with boulders hand-picked by Young from Lake Michigan. Other characteristics include broad and wavy eaves, exposed rafter tails, and eye-catching cedar-shake roofs. You can’t help but stop and snap endless pictures of these incredible abodes. If you want to view the quirky architectural beauty inside, take a professionally guided tour.
2. Delight in the dazzling Castle Farms
Showcasing a French Renaissance-style castle structure and a massive dragon displayed on the grounds, Castle Farms exudes an exciting otherworldly quality. An archival gem erected in the early 1900s, Castle Farms began as an expansive dairy farm and now is a historical site that boasts an outdoor train, a manicured network of pretty gardens and pathways, an interesting World War I museum, and the acclaimed 1918 Cellars where you can sample some Michigan-made wine. Children will be thrilled about the state’s biggest outdoor model railroad possessing over 2,500 feet (762 meters) of sturdy train tracks.
Castle Farms
Address: 5052 M-66, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Castle Farms
Opening hours: Sun: 10am - 4pm; Mon - Thu: 10am - 5pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 2pm
Price: 11 - 15 USD
3. Discover lots of fun festivities at Charlevoix Public Library
Colorful artworks, intriguing artifacts, expert workshops, and free music performances are what you can uncover at Charlevoix Public Library. A top-notch spot for family fun, this beautifully built library which was originally designed as a primary school in 1927 is a cultural touchstone in the community today. A highlight of the facility is the large vibrant mural created by an accomplished local artist. The mural showcases the bustling city life in Charlevoix during the 1920s when the original building was constructed.
Charlevoix Public Library
Address: 220 Clinton St, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Charlevoix Public Library
Opening hours: Sun: 1pm - 5pm; Mon - Thu: 10am - 8pm; Fri - Sat: 10am - 5pm
Price: Free
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4. Find out about the town's past at Museum at Harsha House
A charming Victorian-style house, Museum at Harsha House is where Charlevoix’s history comes to life. Also known as Charlevoix Historical Society, this establishment houses an ever-expanding collection of archival photos and interesting artifacts donated by members of the Charlevoix community. Harsha House showcases three rooms adorned in bygone fashion. Visitors can also view Ernest Hemingway’s original marriage license with his first wife, a delightful 1917 player piano in working condition, and so much more.
Museum at Harsha House
Address: 103 State St. Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Museum at Harsha House
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 12pm - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
5. Hop on a bike and ride Little Traverse Wheelway
The best way to enjoy the outdoors and engage in healthy exercise is to ride the scenic biking trails of Little Traverse Wheelway. Comprised of 26 miles (41.8 kilometers) of smooth asphalt, this trail boasts one of the most gorgeous paved paths in Michigan and affords cyclists as well as rollerbladers, joggers, and avid walkers a prime place to drink in the state’s North American natural beauty. Follow Little Traverse Wheelway and you’ll travel through pockets of pleasant sights like a fishing pond that was a former limestone quarry, Lake Michigan, lovely parks, the shimmering Bay Harbor, and more.
Little Traverse Wheelway
Address: Michigan 49720
Price: Free
6. Uncover outdoor bliss at Mt. McSauba Recreational Area
Mt. McSauba Recreational Area is a stretch of absolute pleasure in Lake Michigan. Filled with a quiet and serene atmosphere, this top recreational area features a large array of fun outdoor activities. In the summertime, guests can enjoy an 18-disc frisbee golf course, climb beach dunes, and explore awesome hiking trails. In wintertime, the mountainous terrain gives way to exhilarating skiing, ice skating, snowshoeing, and snowboarding. In fact, this recreation area opened in 1956 at the request of a group of local fathers who wanted a ski club formed so their kids had something to do during the winter months. The area is also surrounded by robust wildlife in a wonderful wooded landscape.
Mt. McSauba Recreational Area
Address: 9223 Mt McSauba Rd, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Mt. McSauba Recreational Area
7. Engage in superb water recreation on Lake Charlevoix
Lake Charlevoix is the ultimate outdoorsy nirvana. Made up of 17,200 acres (6960.5 hectares) and 56 miles (90.1 kilometers) of pristine shoreline, Lake Charlevoix is the third largest lake in the state and features an abundance of fine public beaches. Visitors should also check out the verdant parks and stellar water activities like sailing and kayaking. If fishing is your passion then expect to catch bluegill, rock bass, yellow perch, walleye, and more. Offering calmer and warmer waters than you’ll find on Lake Michigan, Lake Charlevoix is a big draw for families seeking safe yet alluring beach scenes.
8. Drink in local culture and art at Charlevoix Circle of the Arts
Charlevoix Circle of the Arts is dedicated to inspiring and educating the community in the performing and visual arts. Displaying a large array of art and cultural events from attention-grabbing visual arts exhibits to stimulating lectures to entertaining theatrical and musical performances, this nonprofit arts organization is without a doubt the heart of Charlevoix’s cultural scene. Visitors can view many local artists’ high-quality work like pottery, paintings, photography, hand-blown glassworks, and more. You can be assured there’s always something interesting going on at Charlevoix Circle of the Arts.
Charlevoix Circle of the Arts
Address: 109 Clinton St, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Charlevoix Circle of the Arts
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
9. Browse eclectic wares at Bier Art Gallery & Pottery Studio
A beloved establishment in Northern Michigan for 30 years, Bier Art Gallery & Pottery Studio is a quirky and inviting space to explore artistic treasures. This gallery showcases many local artists’ work and patrons are allowed to watch artists while they paint, mold, or sculpt their latest masterpiece. If these art makers inspire you, you can also sign up for painting or pottery classes. If you’re in the mood to buy, the merchandise is appealing–there are paintings, delicate ceramic art, functional pottery, sparkling glassworks, fine sculptures, and even pretty jewelry.
Bier Art Gallery & Pottery Studio
Address: 3500 US-31, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Bier Art Gallery & Pottery Studio
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
10. Play endlessly at Beaver Island
There is always something to do at pleasant Beaver Island. The biggest island in Lake Michigan, Beaver Island is packed with limitless outdoor activities for whatever strikes your mood. Boasting a significant populace of Irish descent, this island is known as America’s Emerald Isle. Visitors can relish tranquil sandy beaches, take a mindblowing boat or plane tour, enjoy a leisure nature walk, explore the area by bike, or visit an interesting museum. The beauty of Beaver Island will captivate you and its recreational choices will keep you completely entertained.
Beaver Island
Address: Lake Michigan
Website: Beaver Island
11. Snap Instagram-worthy shots at Charlevoix South Pier Light Station
The ultimate place to appreciate Charlevoix seaside vibe is the Charlevoix South Pier Light Station. An iconic and striking bright red lighthouse overlooking Lake Michigan, Charlevoix South Pier Light Station is a prime spot to take countless beautiful photographs and enjoy incomparable sunset views over the water. This archival structure was constructed in the late 1800s and has been of use to sailors for more than 100 years. Today it is one of Charlevoix’s go-to tourist attractions.
Charlevoix South Pier Light Station
Address: 2 Grant St, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Charlevoix South Pier Light Station
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Dip your toes in the sand at Michigan Beach Park on Lake Michigan
If you’re not at Michigan Beach Park on a sunny afternoon then you’re seriously missing out on some phenomenal outdoor fun. Situated on Lake Michigan, this scenic beachside park offers a gorgeous and relaxing shore and there’s always the opportunity to hunt for Michigan’s favored Petoskey stones. This delightful park also features fishing spots, a safe playground for the children, forested walking trails, well-maintained athletic courts like volleyball, and clean restrooms. Don’t forget to stay until sundown to experience an awesome sunset.
Michigan Beach Park
Address: 95 Grant St. Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Michigan Beach Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
13. Savor fresh fish dishes at Terry's of Charlevoix
With its romantic ambiance, Terry’s of Charlevoix is a lovely upscale restaurant that’ll make your heart flutter. Terry’s of Charlevoix is needless to say popular with the locals and presents a fine dining experience that’s a cut above. Serving a small but hearty menu comprised of locally sourced fresh seafood, this restaurant assuredly takes full advantage of Charlevoix’s proximity to the water. The whitefish served with stewed tomatoes is a must-try. For those not keen on fish, Terry’s of Charlevoix also features juicy chops like filet mignon along with tasty duckling, veal, and chicken dishes. To complement the meal, order from the extensive wine menu of reds and whites.
Terry's of Charlevoix
Address: 101 Antrim St, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Terry’s of Charlevoix
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 5pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 10pm
14. Dine with scenic drawbridge and river views at Stafford's Weathervane Restaurant
Housed in a refurbished grist mill that overlooks the waters of the dazzling Pine River Channel, Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant offers a most unique dining experience. The moment you step into the place you’ll notice the prominent and impressive stone fireplace comprised of smooth glacial boulders fashioned into an image of the state of Michigan! Guests can dine on the breezy outdoor deck and watch the activity of the working drawbridge and boats that sail by. This restaurant offers superb regional cuisine made from scratch with the freshest and finest ingredients.
Stafford's Weathervane Restaurant
Address: 106 Pine River Ln, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 9:30pm
15. Plan a camping outing at Fisherman's Island State Park
Fisherman’s Island State Park is like stepping onto a section of Mother Nature’s excellence. Situated on 6 miles (9.65 kilometers) of Lake Michigan’s pristine shoreline, Fisherman’s Island State Park is a beautiful lakeside park exuding a genuine island vibe. Made up of 2,678 acres (1,083 hectares) of well-maintained space, this park possesses high dunes, an inviting beach, enchanting cedar bogs, an awesome network of hiking trails, and a nice picnic area. There are wonderfully rustic camping sites scattered throughout the island’s interior landscape and the area is packed with tall maple, birch, and aspen trees. This destination is truly an oasis residing in Lake Michigan.
Fisherman's Island State Park
Address: 16480 Bells Bay Rd S, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Fisherman’s Island State Park
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
16. Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine at The Cantina
Boasting an energetic and warm atmosphere, The Cantina is a popular restaurant and bar serving classic Mexican fare in a casual setting. Tacos are Old Mexico-style meat choices with juicy carnitas, chorizo, and barbacoa. There’s also chicken and fish as well as vegetarian options. You can’t go wrong with a Super Burrito stuffed with your choice of protein plus fluffy rice, flavorful beans, cool avocado, shredded cabbage, chihuahua cheese, and spicy pico de gallo. Pair any item with a stellar margarita and finish the meal with a warm churro served with chocolate and caramel dipping sauce and you’re in heaven.
The Cantina
Address: 101 Van Pelt Pl, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: The Cantina
Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 11am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 11pm; Sun: 11am - 9pm (closed on Mon)
17. Sample the freshest produce at Charlevoix Farmers Market
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Charlevoix Farmers Market on Thursday, August 6, 2020
Located in the city’s downtown area, Charlevoix Farmers Market is a once-a-week delight for residents and tourists. Charlevoix Farmers Market is touted as one of the most appealing farmers markets in the United States. A great destination for any diehard foodie, this breezy open-air market provides a huge selection of fresh and colorful fruits and vegetables from hardworking local farmers proud to show off their wares. Shoppers can also spy delectable baked goods, fragrant soaps, scented candles, a plentitude of fresh flowers, and so much more. This market also hosts instructions on floral arranging, gardening tips, expert cooking demonstrations, and engaging hands-on kids’ activities.
Charlevoix Farmers Market
Address: 220 Clinton St, Charlevoix, MI 49720
Website: Charlevoix Farmers Market
Opening hours: Thu: 8am - 1pm (closed from Fri - Wed)
18. Explore vibrant Downtown Charlevoix
It is easy to see how this section of the city is a true jewel by the lake. Downtown Charlevoix is an inviting area filled with a collection of charming local shops and fine delicious dining. Do some shopping, grab a nice dinner, stroll along the harborfront, or simply relax and watch the boats sail on Lake Michigan. Whatever you choose, Downtown Charlevoix offers a wonderful cluster of appealing diversions that adds to this city’s laidback superbness. Make a point to check out Hoop Skirt Alley, a pedestrian-friendly plaza as well as outdoor gathering space replete with comfy seating, attractive decorative lighting, compelling art pieces, and more.
Downtown Charlevoix
Address: 210 State St Charlevoix, Michigan 49720
Website: Downtown Charlevoix
Charming Charlevoix
Whether you aim to enjoy outstanding water recreation on a stunning lake, hike a jaw-dropping scenic trail, or taste the freshest local produce at a pleasant farmers market, Charlevoix can easily provide all these activities and so much more. Charlevoix has grown into a powerhouse destination for tourists looking to unwind in the quiet and serene area of the United States’ far north and this city is an adventure that won’t disappoint.
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