Things To Do In Petoskey

If you're looking for things to do in Petoskey, Michigan, you'll be spoiled for choice. This coastal resort community offers plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors busy. From golfing and fishing to shopping and sightseeing, there's something for everyone in Petoskey.
Things to do in Petoskey
play_circle

About The Area

Known for its scenic beauty, Petoskey, Michigan is found in the heart of the Midwest’s most popular four season resort area. Covering just over six square miles, with a population of 6,080, the area is located on the shores of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay.

The area is characterized by rolling hills, wooded terrain and inland lakes, including a 38-mile inland waterway. Petoskey was named by authors of The 100 Best Small Towns in America, The Great Towns of America as one of America’s 100 Best Places to Retire. Petoskey is home to some of the best medical professionals in the nation. Their high level of award-winning care keeps the area among the best places to be taken care of in many specialties.

Find a Petoskey Stone

No visit in Petoskey would be complete would finding a Petoskey stone to bring home.

The stones were formed as a result of glaciation, in which sheets of ice plucked stones from the bedrock, grinding off their rough edges and depositing them in the northwestern (and some in the northeastern) portion of Michigan's lower peninsula.

The most popular place for hunting Petoskey Stones is a Lake Michigan beach. Although the beaches are the hot spots, those ancient glaciers spread the fossils around the area and rockhounds know to leave the lakeshore to search cut roadbeds, gravel pits and even farmer's fields.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450’ above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the park’s rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history.

Sleeping Bear Dunes offers many excellent opportunities for adventure, exploration, wildlife viewing and just plain having fun. Start planning your visit by using the links below. Also, remember the key to a great visit is staying safe.
Visit Their Website

Petoskey City Marine and Boardwalk

Our 144-slip marina is located in the heart of Bayfront park and is connected to the historic gaslight district district of downtown Petoskey via a pedestrian tunnel. You will find unique shops, fine dining and exceptional service.

The Petoskey Marina is a designated Michigan Clean Marina. A major renovation took place in 2011. This is the ideal location to go for a long walk on a beautiful summer day and experience everything Petoskey offers.

Petoskey State Park

Petoskey State Park in Michigan is a beautiful place to visit, offering 1 mile of beach along Lake Michigan, two modern campgrounds, and trails. Enjoy discovering the unique Petoskey stones, the views of the bay, and hiking or biking the trails.

Petoskey State Park is also a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset. In addition to the Petoskey State Park, there are many other great places to explore in Michigan.  The Little Traverse Wheelway is a 26-mile paved trail that passes by the state park entrance, linking Charlevoix and Harbor Springs.  North Western State Trail is located just south of the park and connects Petoskey and Mackinac City.  These trails are great for biking, walking, running, or rollerblading. Michigan is a great place to get outdoors and enjoy nature!
Visit Their Website

Historic Gaslight District

Downtown Petoskey is one of the most charming and vibrant areas in Michigan. Named one of the Best Small Towns in America by the Smithsonian Magazine, Downtown Petoskey will brighten your "Up North" experience with unparalleled shopping, dining, and entertainment.

The Gaslight District, in particular, offers a unique and authentic atmosphere that you won't find anywhere else. With its brick streets and beautiful architecture, it's easy to see why Petoskey is such a popular destination. Whether you're looking for a new outfit or just want to catch a show, you'll find what you're looking for in Downtown Petoskey.

Photo credit to Michigan Municipal League. Image is taken from Flickr.
Visit Their Website

Bear River Valley Recreation Area

Looking for a great place to get some exercise and take in the sights of nature? Look no further than the Bear River Valley Recreational Area. This picturesque spot offers a 1.5-mile path along the gorgeous Bear River, perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Birding is also popular here, and you can find pedestrian observation decks and restrooms at the north end of the river. Don't forget to bring your snowshoes and cross-country skis in the winter.
‍
If you're feeling adventurous, check out the 1/4 mile long whitewater course. It's the only one of its kind in the lower peninsula, and it's sure to get your heart racing.
Visit Their Website

Petoskey Farms Vineyard & Winery

Open all year round, Petoskey Farms Vineyard and Winery is the perfect getaway whatever season. Located just a few miles from downtown Petoskey, this family-owned 22-acre estate is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some wine tasting and seasonal wood-fired pizza. Take in the stunning views of the vineyard and countryside from the outdoor patios. During the winter, enjoy some cozy wine tastings by the fire.
Visit Their Website

Bayfront Park

Looking for a place to enjoy the best of Petoskey's Little Traverse Bay? Look no further than Bayfront Park. This linear park features 7800 feet of public shoreline, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or picnicking with friends. The well-maintained grounds offer a variety of facilities and amenities, including a playground for the kids, a history museum, and a marina. Bayfront Park is easily accessible from downtown Petoskey via a pedestrian tunnel, so come on down and enjoy all that this "treasure" of a park has to offer.

Visit Their Website

Crooked Tree Arts Center

Crooked Tree Arts Center is a must-see destination for art lovers in northern Michigan. Founded in 1971, the Center features four galleries, a theatre, dance studio, classrooms, and a culinary arts kitchen. Located in downtown Petoskey, the galleries are free and open to the public. Art exhibitions and classes for all ages are offered all year round. With three art galleries in Traverse City, Crooked Tree is the perfect place to spend a day exploring the arts. Admission is always free, so come visit today.

Photo credit to Joseph. Image is taken from Flickr.

Visit Their Website

Schedule A Private Property Tour Of Hearthside Grove.

Reserve your exclusive preview. We hold virtual and private on-site tours weekly. Let our friendly team show you everything that our motorcoach resort has to offer.

Schedule Private Tour
We use cookies to improve your experience and deliver personalized content. By using our website, you agree to our Cookie Policy.
Got it