5 Things to Do in Petoskey, Michigan
The four-seasons coastal resort community of Petoskey, Michigan, is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor attractions and quaint historic neighborhoods. It’s the perfect place to go to get your mix of that charming, coastal small town vibe, alongside lots of outdoor fun. You certainly wouldn’t be alone in planning a visit to the area — families and couples flock to Petoskey in both summer and winter to enjoy all the area has to offer, on and off the water.
Here are five much-loved Petoskey activities to consider adding to your itinerary.
1. Check Out the Seasonal Fun
Depending on the season of your visit, you’ll have either plenty of sunshine and swim-ready waters, or loads of snow. If you’re traveling during the winter, be sure to check out the Petoskey Area’s snowsports scene, considered one of the best in the Midwest. Regional ski areas include The Highlands at Harbor Springs, Nub’s Nob and Boyne Mountain, which together offer more than 160 runs.
If, though, you’re traveling during milder months and can take advantage of the summer weather, make sure to get out on the water, or at least take in the water views, from favorited spots such as Petoskey State Park and Bayfront Park. The former offers swimming and camping, while the latter was a prior industrial site, and now encompasses sports fields, a marina, fishing pond and the Little Traverse Historical Society History Museum.
Ski Resort Town in Colorado Rockies Winter Sports Skiing and Snowboarding Slopes Ski Resort Town in Colorado Rockies (Shot with Canon 5DS 50.6mp photos professionally retouched – Lightroom / Photoshop – original size 5792 x 8688 downsampled as needed for clarity and select focus used for dramatic effect)
2. Explore the Historic Gaslight District
In Petoskey’s downtown, the Historic Gaslight District offers a range of attractions, all on historic streets lined with gas lights. The neighborhood has drawn travelers and locals alike for more than a century, with its mix of small boutiques, galleries and restaurants. Go for a stroll and see what you come across, whether you’re in the mood for some shopping or you’re looking for your next bite to eat.
An old-time clock and three of the gaslights in the famed Gaslight district of Petoskey, Michigan
3. Sample an Adult Beverage (Or a Few!)
Wineries and breweries are plentiful in the Petoskey area, and adult travelers would be remiss to visit the region and not stop into at least a few. Favorites include the Petoskey Farms Vineyard and Winery, Mackinaw Trail Winery & Brewery, Burnt Marshmallow Brewstillery, Walloon Lake Winery and Resort Pike Cidery and Winery.
Photo courtesy of https://www.petoskeyfarms.com/
4. Get in a Round of Golf
Always like to visit the local golf courses when in a new destination? You’ll have plenty of options to choose from during a visit to Petoskey. There’s the Bay Harbor Golf Club and its multiple courses with views of the water. The Highlands and Boyne Mountain similarly offer multiple options. Crooked Tree Golf Club overlooks Little Traverse Bay from its spot high up on the bluffs, and Dunmaglas Golf Club likewise offers Lake Michigan views from a height.
White golf ball near hole on green grass good for background with sunlight and lens flare effect. Golf ball on green grass near hole golf to win in game at golf course with sunset background.
Need More?
Find even more fun ways to spend a day or longer in Petoskey and the surrounding region, with Discovery Map’s Petoskey, Michigan, illustrated map and guide, which lists a range of attractions, restaurants, accommodations options and more, and is available in both digital and print formats.