Things To Do In Harbor Springs Mi

Experience Harbor Springs Michigan

A Tour of Harbor Springs and Bay Harbor-Michigan Travel TV

This is the place! From spring days with a landscape covered in trillium to a summer afternoon on the beach or water, Harbor Springs is the place. Situated on a beautiful natural, deep harbor, this tiny, beautiful community has a wonderful downtown business district with fabulous shopping and dining overlooking the water. Four seasons of outdoor fun offer amazing opportunities for families. Harbor Springs is waiting for you to visit. What are you waiting for?

Summer is the season when many visit Harbor Springs, and rightfully so! There is much to do here between concerts on the waterfront, and art fair in the park, Waterfront Wine Festival, sailing, kayaking, beach time, fishing, hiking, biking including the Little Traverse Wheelway, and golfing. This is the place to meet with old friends, and new ones, dine, play, enjoy. Looking for lodging? Harbor Springs accommodations include everything from quaint bed and breakfasts to complete resorts. Lodging to fit your wants!

But summer isnt the only season to love Harbor Springs. Fall is the perfect time to view the beautiful fall colors and drive the Tunnel of Trees to Cross Village. The water is still warm for swimming and water activities, the golf courses are glorious in fall color, and there are many events such as Taste of Harbor Springs and Great Lakes Glass Pumpkin Patch, so there is always something to do.

Take A Fall Color Tour In Wine Country Mackinaw City Charlevoix Pestoskey

The fall foliage in Northern Michigan is nothing short of breathtaking. It is so breathtaking, in fact, that you can find fall color tours going on throughout the season. These follow some of the best routes in the state where you can see the most scenic views.

One of the most popular color tours in North Michigan winds between Mackinaw City, Charlevoix, and Petoskey. This route offers amazing views of local farmland and forest, including small resort towns.

You might even have the chance to spot some local wildlife but even if you dont get lucky, the fall colors are good enough to stand on their own.

Learn Where To Find Petoskey Stones

The city of Petoskey and the Petoskey area are named after a Native American chief of the Ottawa tribe, known as Chief Pe-to-se-ga. The English translation of his name means rising sun. Interestingly, stones of the area appear to have a pattern similar to that of the rising sun. These rocks are called Petoskey Stones. The official stone of the state of Michigan, the Petoskey Stone is actually a fossil of coral that lived over 350 million years ago! At that time, the state of Michigan was covered by warm, shallow, saltwater sea. As time passed, the land area of Michigan was pushed north by tectonic plate activity, and the sea that once was, dried up. The remains of the hexagonal coral that used to flourish in that sea are found in the form of the fossilized Petoskey Stone.

When looking where to find Petoskey Stones, your best bet is sticking to the shores of Lake Michigan. Petoskey, Charlevoix, and the other towns surrounding Little Traverse Bay are hot spots for people on the hunt for these hexagonal patterned rocks. Petoskey Stone hunting is hard to do on dry land as these stones look very similar to regular limestone. Smooth and gray in color, the best way to see the patterns of the rocks is when the rock is wet. Thats why the shores of Lake Michigan are where to find Petoskey stones. Just a few steps into ankle deep water, and the fossilized patterns reveal themselves to anyone who knows what to look for.

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Unique Fall Things To Do In Northern Michigan

If you plan on being in Northern Michigan this fall, there are a few activities that you cant miss! Northern Michigan is a beautiful place to visit in the autumn, with some of the most beautiful fall foliage around thanks to the beautiful sights around Lake Michigan.

But its not all about colorful leaves. There are also many fall family activities and other events. Whether you are looking for an outdoor activity, festival, or somewhere to bring your kids, there is something for everyone in Northern Michigan.

The New York Harbor Springs Michigan

Located in downtown Harbor Springs, The New York Restaurant serves a menu of eclectic cuisine within a comfortable setting that overlooks the waterfront of Little Traverse Bay. This local dining establishment is known in the area for its talented bartenders, attentive and professional wait staff, and fine gourmet dining. The New York opens for dinner seven days a week starting at 5:00pm and offers nightly dinner and appetizers specials in addition to its regular menu, and while the food may be considered upscale, diners dont need to worry about any fancy dress code to have a meal here.

101 State St, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, Phone: 231-526-1904

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Where Does The Tunnel Of Trees Start

Wondering where is the Tunnel of Trees Michigan located? The Harbor Springs Tunnel of Trees begins in Harbor Springs, just North of Petoskey on M-119.

If you need an actual address, just type in Harbor Point Golf Club, Harbor Springs as M-119 runs along the south side of the club. But basically, just drive into Harbor Springs and stay on M-119.

Is Harbor Springs worth visiting? Yes! It’s a great small village with cute shops, scenic marina and restaurants worth exploring.

Visiting the Tunnel of Trees is a Michigan Fall tradition!

Mi Getaways Are The Best Here At Harbor Springs Michigan

For the best MI getaways, why not consider what’s on offer here at Harbor Springs, Michigan? Glamping experiences here are by and far some of the most unique stays in the state that you’ll find. Enjoy your time in the best Harbor Springs cabin rentals today with incredible cabins in Michigan. The best Midwest vacation ideas are waiting for you today right here, so make sure you check it all out here at Glamping Hub before you come and find out what you can expect to see during your time here at the best Harbor Springs vacations around! The accommodation selection will give you the best options for consideration, whether you want a modern cabin, or something with a more rustic feel – there’s something for everyone right here. Don’t look beyond these amazing options today for the best of Michigan!

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Visit The History Museum

The local governing body originally built the Emmet County courthouse in 1886. When they moved the county seat to Petoskey in 1902, the building had several incarnations over the years. For many years it was the Harbor Springs City Hall. Today, the local History Museum tells the story of local history, starting with the Odawa Native Americans and finishing with how the ski industry grew in the town post-World War II.

The History Museum also features the stories of local folks. Youll find the tales of Ephraim Shay, a locomotive inventor, Chief Andrew J. Blackbird, Elizabeth Whitney Williams, a lighthouse keeper, and downtown merchant Rose Rosenthal.

Explore The Tunnel Of Trees

Placemaking in Harbor Springs

Its one of the most scenic rides in Michigan: the 20-mile long journey down state highway M-119 through a tunnel of age-old hardwoods. Pick up M-119 north of Harbor Springs and continue through the trees along a spectacular bluff overlooking Lake Michigan.

This Northern Michigan Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. the sprawling complex offers fifty thousand square feet of gaming space as well as a gourmet restaurant and spacious, comfortable rooms.

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Enjoy The Best Things To Do In Harbor Springs

If you’re looking for things to do in Harbor Springs during your trip to this fantastic destination, then look no further! There’s some amazing options worth your consideration, so listen up! During the colder winter months, come and visit Nubs Nob Ski Resort and hit the slopes to polish up your skills with the sticks! Along the north bank of Little Traverse Bay, you’re sure to enjoy your time here. Next up, check out Petoskey State Park – with plenty of camp sites around and the best hiking to be found in the area along these sand dunes, there’s no reason to look elsewhere! Finally, take a short trip to Crooked Lake for some time chilling by the waterside during your great Michigan getaway. There’s nothing quite like it when you visit this little hidden gem in the Midwest!

Visit A Local Farm For Fall Festivities Harbor Springs

No matter where you are in Northern Michigan, there is a farm nearby hosting amazing autumn activities. From pumpkin patches and pick-your-own apples to fresh baked goods, petting zoos, and more, this is one of the top family activities you just cant miss.

One of the best and most unique farms to visit is Pond Hill Farm. This charming farm in Harbor Springs is close to the famous Tunnel of Trees.

Pond Hill Farm is open daily throughout the year with seasonal produce and activities. But it celebrates autumn like no other. Here, visitors get the chance to eat fresh homemade treats like cider and doughnuts, explore the pumpkin patch, go on hayrides, feed and pet animals, and even play pumpkin bowling and smashing.

The fall festival weekends also feature pig racing , homemade wines for the adults, and farm-to-table dinners. There is nowhere else to eat and drink so well and have so much fun in Northern Michigan in the fall!

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Michigan Tunnel Of Trees Map

Michigan Tunnel of Trees Map – Harbor Springs Fall Color Tour, Pond Hill Farm, Good Hart, Cross Village | By Sherry Trautman | Traveling Michigan

The Tunnel of Trees Harbor Springs MI is one of the most scenic drives in America! It’s a super popular Michigan fall color tour destination and Michigan vacation destination but can be enjoyed all year.

Michigan tunnel of trees drive on M119 is very entertaining as there are several stops along the way. The road is very curvy with peeks of Lake Michigan’s shoreline-perfect for sports cars or motorcycles!

Tunnel of Trees Petoskey-The tunnel of trees begins 10 miles north of Petoskey. It’s one of our favorite places to go in Michigan in the fall. It’s an incredible Michigan fall color drive!

Generally, the trees in this region change color late in the season, around October 19-22ish time frame.

Explore Ernest Hemingways Michigan Roots

The father of 20th century American literature spent his first 22 summers in the Petoskey area. For Ernest Hemingway, Michigan is where his formative days were spent. Summers were for studying all the activities required for manly enrichment: hunting, fishing, swimming, climbing, etc. Up in Michigan, Hemingway and his family made camp at Walloon Lake. When Ernest Hemingway stayed in Michigan, he also spent much of his time in Petoskey proper. At Staffords Perry Hotel he rested, a weary traveler after a three-week journey on foot from his home of Oak Park, Illinois.

One of the most unique and inimitable things to do in Petoskey is to follow in the footsteps of dear old Papa. Here you can learn about Ernest Hemingway, Michigan edition! Tour operator Petoskey Yesterday provides 90-120 minute tours of locations significant to Hemingways life, as well as more generalized tours of the area. The standard Turn of the Century Petoskey, Haunted Petoskey and Downtown Petoskey tours run $15/person while the Nick Adams Tours are $20 and a bit more involved It is in Petoskey and its environs where The Nick Adams Stories transpire. Published nearly a decade after his death, Hemingways Nick Adams Stories are short stories that provide more insight into life in Northern Michigan.

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Harbor Springs Areaactivities & Things To Do

Vacations and weekend get aways are a great time to take part in a variety of activities. In Northern Michigan, you can fill your day with everything from a picnic on the beach in the summer, to biking in the fall, to downhill skiing in the winter, to hunting for mushrooms in the spring.Harbor Springs is the place to try new things! Rent a bike or a kayak, go snow tubing, attend a concert or an art fair, or play a round of golf with friends.From dawn to dusk, it is here for you to enjoy in Northern Michigan.

Eat Local In Petoskey Michigan

After all these things to do in Petoskey, youre bound to work up an appetite. When traveling, you can really get a feel for a place when you bypass familiar chains for local flavors. Consider stopping in at one of the Petoskey restaurants mentioned below:

  • Breakfast in the H.O. Rose Dining Room at Staffords Perry Hotel comes with a plate of homemade cinnamon buns at every table, and an incredible view of Little Traverse Bay.
  • Roast & Toast serves up great coffee drinks and nosh for all three meals.
  • Mims has Mediterranean food as authentic as what youd expect in a city ten times the size of Petoskey.
  • Vernales not only is the best rated steakhouse in the Petoskey area, it also is diverse: there is a sports bar with TVs as well as a more intimate dining room, depending on what suits you.
  • For an upscale and romantic setting, Vintage Chophouse|Wine Bar in Bay Harbor cant be beat, and did I mention their to-die-for wine list?

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Where Can I Take Fall Pictures In Northern Michigan

With close to 20 million acres of forest throughout the state, there are countless places to take fall photos in Michigan. In Northern Michigan specifically, you have the amazing tools of the lakes at your disposal!

Some top locations for taking fall pictures in Northern Michigan include Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, Old Mission Peninsula, Rugg Pond, the Jordan River Valley, and Lakes of the North.

Boating Kayaking And Paddleboarding

Michigan’s Hidden Gems: Harbor Springs, Petoskey, and Charlevoix!

Whether you spend the day boating on the Inland Waterway or Little Traverse Bay, it will be a day to remember.

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Best Beaches In Petoskey

Set along the shores of sparkling blue Little Traverse Bay in northern Michigan, the area around Petoskey and Harbor Springs includes some of Michigans best beaches for swimming and splashing along the shoreline.

From beaches with an abundance of amenities such as picnic tables, concessions and paddleboard rentals to wilder, secluded beaches, there is a beach for everyone along this spectacular part of Michigans freshwater coast.

Were sharing some of the areas best beaches below.

Beach, Swimming, Restrooms, Lifeguard, Picnic Tables

Nub’s Nob Harbor Springs Michigan

Nub’s Nob is one of the most award-winning ski resorts in Michigan over the past two decades, known for delivering a friendly and first-class snowboard and ski experience for people of all skill levels. More than fifty slopes are spread out across three peaks, ranging from gentle trails to legendary steeps. The friendly crew, the Midwests most highly decorated snowmaking and snow grooming, and varied terrain provide something for skiers and snowboarders of all ages. In addition to the slopes, Nubs Nob offers snowboard and ski lessons, rental recruitment, both day and night cross-country skiing, and night skiing.

500 Nubs Nob Rd, Harbor Springs, MI 49740, Phone: 231-526-2131

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Tunnel Of Trees Michigan Hotels

If you are wondering where to stay while touring the tunnel of trees, check out these two interesting lodging options in Harbor Springs, Michigan.

Boyne Highlands – 600 Highland Rd, Harbor Springs, MI 49740

We recommend staying at the Boyne Highlands resort as they have a super cool chairlift so you can have a panoramic view of the fall colors, walking trails, zip lines, an in-house lounge for meals or drinks and so many things to do while you are vacationing in Northern Michigan. Be sure to visit the Tunnel of Trees this Michigan Fall!

Colonial Inn – 210 Artesian Ave, Harbor Springs, MI 49740

Open mid May through late October, this lovely Inn offers gas fireplaces in some rooms, a swimming pool, indoor spa and fitness room. The lovely rooms at The Colonial Inn Hotel have porches and balconies overlook their spacious grounds. This historic inn is a lovely place to stay on your summer or fall Michigan vacation.

Hike Thorne Swift Nature Preserve

Located on Lower Shore Drive, 4 miles north of downtown Harbor Springs, youll find the Thorne Swift Nature Preserve, a 30-acre wildlife sanctuary. The preserve features three nature trails: the Beach, the Balsam, and the Cedar.

The Beach Trail at Thorne Swift Nature Preserve is a quarter-mile trail that leads to the beach. While the water is too cold in spring to finish this hike swimming, you can quell your appetite with a picnic lunch on the beach.

The half-mile Balsam Trail includes the Dune Observation Deck for a perfect view of the sunset. Birdwatchers at sunset may spot owls or nighthawks, while daytime hikers might find chickadees, waterfowl, or warblers.

Those who enjoy wildlife should hike the Cedar Trail with a path overlooking the Cedar swamps. Chances are youll spot a deer or other wetland creatures.

Pro Tip: The hiking trails at Thorne Swift Nature Preserve are wheelchair accessible.

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