Day Trips
Are you looking for some fun places to visit? From Cheboygan all the way to the Upper Peninsula, here are some must-see destinations to make your next getaway extra special.
Cheboygan
(12 Minute Drive)
Cheboygan marks the eastern gateway to the Inland Waterway, a unique water trail that stretches 40 miles, nearly to the Petoskey Area. Joining seven state parks, 20 nature preserves, three rivers, three lakes and numerous quaint towns, boat ramps, marinas and campgrounds, the Inland Waterway reveals the natural charms of northern Michigan. Rent a kayak and head up the Cheboygan River. Continue through Mullett Lake and Burt Lake, the Crooked River and Crooked Lake, keeping watch for paddling duck families and long-legged herons. Cast a line and try your hand at fishing the pristine waters. And pull up to one of a dozen of family-owned groceries and restaurants to fuel your journey.
Petoskey Area
(46 Minute Drive)
Petoskey is a charming lakeside community known for its natural beauty, Victorian architecture, historic Gaslight Shopping District, and of course, Petoskey Stone.
Along with breathtaking views of Little Traverse Bay, one of the first things to catch your eye is the elegant Victorian architecture in the homes and buildings. The Bay View community alone has more than 400 homes on the National Historic Register.
The Gaslight District in downtown Petoskey features dozens of intriguing shops just waiting to be discovered.
At the end of the day, relax in a gourmet restaurant or a casual setting. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it served with a smile.
Mackinac Island
(65 Minutes with ferry ride)
For centuries, visitors have found this national landmark to be the ideal vacation spot. No cars. No chain hotels. Just world-famous Mackinac Island Fudge, historic Fort Mackinac, unique shopping and diverse dining. Jump on a ferry to experience unforgettable sunsets, awe-inspiring sunrises and extraordinary nightlife befit our ranking as a Top 10 U.S. Island by TripAdvisor and USA Today. Don’t forget to rent a bike and explore the interior of the island, too! Start planning your trip to Mackinac Island…the Jewel of the Great Lakes
Sault Sainte Marie/Soo Locks
(90 Minute Drive)
Take in the sights, sounds and vibrating feelings of being up close and personal with some of the Great Lakes largest freighters with the observation platform located in the Soo Locks overlooking the MacArthur Lock. The Soo Locks aren’t just for mammoth lake freighters either. Catch unique vessels such as tall ships, sailboats, cruise ships, and military crafts lock into Lake Superior or Huron.
The Soo Locks Park has many great vantage points to take in the sights of the historic locks too. A few steps from the water’s edge the park boasts shady grass, defined walkways, manicured gardens and democracy of trees representing those found throughout the Upper Peninsula.
Tahquamemon Falls
(90 Minute Drive)
The centerpiece of Tahquamenon Falls State Park’s nearly 50,000 acres is the Tahquamenon River with its waterfalls viewable from multiple accessible overlooks. The Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, has a drop of nearly 50 feet, is more than 200 feet across and has a maximum water flow of more than 50,000 gallons per second. Just 4 miles downstream is the Lower Falls, which consists of a series of five smaller falls cascading around an island that can be reached by bridge, or a rowboat rented from a park concession. This area is perfect for wading in the river!
White Fish Point
(104 Minute Drive)
The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum has become one of Michigan’s most popular destinations in the cultural tourism industry, attracting over 75,000 visitors each season. The museum is open every day May 1 to October 31, from 10 am to 6 pm. Museum patrons learn about the perils of maritime transport on the Great Lakes at the Whitefish Point Light Station, an Historic Site on the National Register of Historic Places. See the Whitefish Point Light Tower, in continuous operation for 155 years, the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior.
