Ready for a bucket-list-worthy adventure through one of America’s most underrated regions? This Northern Michigan road trip will turn you into a lifelong fan of the Mitten State. From the storybook charm of Mackinac Island to the whimsical Mushroom Houses of Charlevoix, historic Petoskey, and the sweeping dunes of Sleeping Bear, every stop offers something unforgettable.
Follow this four-day itinerary packed with local eats, natural wonders, hidden gems, and charming small towns. Bonus: it starts in Traverse City, making it super convenient to fly in and get started.
Day 1: Mackinac Island – Step Back in Time
Fly into Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport, rent a car, and hit the road to Mackinaw City (about 2.5 hours away). Park your car and hop on Shepler’s Ferry to Mackinac Island—a place where cars are banned, and life moves at a slower, horse-drawn pace.
Must-do on Mackinac Island:
- Stroll downtown for boutique shopping and Ryba’s legendary fudge (this is the Fudge Capital of the World, after all).
- Visit Doud’s Market, the oldest grocery store in America (since 1884).
- Book a private horse-drawn carriage tour from Jack’s Livery Stable for insider island stories.
Where to Stay on Mackinac Island
- The Grand Hotel: Famous for its massive front porch and presidential guest list. Rooms are a great mix of Chintz and elegance, reminiscent of the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia.
- Mission Point Resort: Affords gorgeous lakefront views, a luxurious spa, and standout dining at Chianti. Try the Fettuccine a la Carbonara—you won’t regret it.
Nightcap: Head to the Pink Pony for cocktails and live music—it’s an island favorite.
Day 2: History, Ghosts, and Small-Town Vibes
Morning on Mackinac Island:
- Tour Fort Mackinac, Michigan’s oldest building and a former military outpost. Don’t miss lunch at the Fort Mackinac Tea Room—the views are incredible.
- Enjoy Mackinac’s gardens and vibrant floral displays as you wander.
Fun Fact: Fort Mackinac was the first National Park in the National Park System, but it has since been downgraded to a state park.
Afternoon: Drive to Petoskey (45 minutes)
Check into The Terrace Inn, a 100-year-old hotel with vintage charm and stunning bay views. Please note that there are no elevators, so be sure to pack accordingly. Yes, it’s allegedly haunted—something brushed my foot while I was resting in bed!
Petoskey Highlights:
- Crooked Tree Arts Center: Local gallery and creative hub.
- Beer flight at Beards Brewery or handcrafted soda at Roast & Toast.
- Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts: Excellent selection of souvenirs, t-shirts, cute gifts, and native Petoskey stones.
- McLean and Eakin: Excellent book shop in the heart of downtown.
- Petoskey State Park: Discover Petoskey stones at the location named for the flat, smooth rocks featuring circular designs (easier to spot when wet). Magnus Park and Bayfront Park are other locations where you can find it.
Fun Fact: Ernest Hemingway loved this area and frequently featured it, as well as northern Michigan, in many of his books.
Dinner in Petoskey
Discover the best dinner spot in Petoskey! Indulge in oak-planked whitefish, a local Northern Michigan favorite, at Stafford’s Pier Restaurant. It’s a light and beautifully presented dish that will satisfy your taste buds. And don’t forget to leave room for their irresistible Cherry Praline Profiteroles for dessert.
After dinner, explore the wealth and luxury of Petoskey’s waterfront homes with a pontoon boat tour from Pointer Boat. It’s a unique and enjoyable way to take in the breathtaking sights. And before you end your night, enjoy a soothing nightcap at the Terrace Inn.
Day 3: Drive to Charlevoix (30 minutes)
Along the way to Charlevoix (char-la-voy), stop at Horton Bay General Store (tavern, restaurant, antique shopping) and browse the Red Fox Inn bookstore.
You’ll discover Charlevoix, a picturesque waterfront town situated on not one, not two, but four stunning bodies of water – Lake Michigan, Round River, Charlevoix River, and Pine River. This idyllic destination is a paradise for boating, fishing, and water sports enthusiasts.
Upon arrival, take a Mushroom House Tour with Elements Gallery. Ride in a GEM car through 26 quirky gnome-like stone cottages designed by Earl Young. They look like something out of a fairy tale.
Lunch & Shopping:
- Browse local shops, enjoy the waterfront scenery, and snap photos of the town’s vibrant hanging flower baskets.
- Grab tacos and margaritas at The Cantina, or try burgers and PB&J sweet potato fries at The Landing—both have waterfront dining.
Either way, your time in Charlevoix promises to be unforgettable.
Afternoon: Drive to Traverse City (1 hour)
Traverse City is widely known as the “Cherry Capital of the World” due to its extensive cherry production in the surrounding area. The city also celebrates 50 vineyards and wineries due to Traverse City’s location on the 45th Parallel, which aligns with some of the most prestigious European wine regions.
Check into Delamar Traverse City for modern, boutique-style comfort.
Evening Activities:
- Tour Mari Vineyards, known for stunning wines and a Game-of-Thrones-style tasting room door, or Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, with a perfect Instagram-worthy setting.
- Walk around Clinch Park or rent a paddleboard.
- Enjoy the chill factor at Mission Point Lighthouse.
- Catch a movie at the historic State Theatre or Bijou by the Bay.
- Grab dinner at The Art of Dining inside the Delamar Traverse City Hotel. Steak, pork, pasta— they are all spectacular.
Day 4: Sleeping Bear Dunes & Leelanau Peninsula
Morning: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Head to Empire, Michigan, on the Leelanau Peninsula, and explore the towering dunes and scenic lookouts at Sleeping Bear. The 450-foot dune climb is stunning, but be cautious—it’s a challenging hike back up. There are plenty of places to enjoy the views and take photos. This lakeshore has 35 miles of shoreline.
Afternoon: Cherry Republic & Glen Arbor
- Savor cherry everything at Cherry Republic—wine, salsa, jam, chocolate, and more.
- Visit Cottage Book Shop for souvenirs, National Park posters, and charming small-town vibes.
- Grab a pick-me-up at Leelanau Coffee Roasting Co.
Stop at Fishtown in Leland
This 19th-century commercial fishing village, saved by the locals over a decade ago, feels frozen in time, with old wooden shanties now transformed into shops and restaurants. It is also a great place for relaxing scenery and stunning photos.
What to Try:
- Sandwich at Village Cheese Shanty (Third Coast on a pretzel bun is chef’s kiss). Like seriously, don’t miss this excellent and tasty stop.
- Visit shops like Tug Stuff, Two Fish Gallery, Leland Gal, and Leelanau Books.
If you have extra time, enjoy a wine tasting at nearby Lake Leelanau wineries—there are plenty! Alternatively, take the ferry service to North and South Manitou Islands, offering day trips and camping options. Don’t miss out on this quaint and historic gem on Michigan’s coast!
Why Northern Michigan Belongs on Your Bucket List
From fudge and forts to ghost stories and dune climbs, this Northern Michigan road trip is packed with postcard-worthy views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, this part of the Midwest will capture your heart and leave you planning your next trip before the first one ends.
Plan Your Trip:
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall.
- How to Get There: Fly into Traverse City (TVC) or Pellston Regional (PLN).
- Travel Tip: Layer up—temperatures can swing, especially near the lakes.
Read more about Michigan here:
Susan Veness
Saturday 20th of July 2019
Wonderful piece, and a real trip down memory lane for me! Lived in Michigan for 48 glorious summers and bone-chilling winters (summers are easy; winters, you just survive), and your journey took me to all the places I know so well. You hit the real highlights (Mackinaw Island and Petoskey are a must). It also reminded me I've got a bottle of cherry wine in my wine rack that's probably a decade old, so I'm guessing it's cherry vinegar by now. If you ever get the chance to visit Mackinaw Island in the winter (arrival by the world's shortest flight), jump at it. It's a completely different world, and a true winter wonderland.
MelodyPittman
Saturday 20th of July 2019
The winter wonderland sounds really fun! I heard lots of stories about the extreme temps and those that stay year round. They are troupers. LOL Thanks so much for reading and your sweet comment. I love a good road trip. ;)