Are you visiting a local in Charlevoix, Michigan, and searching for enjoyable things to do? There’s nowhere else to look! You’re in the proper location. To help you make the most of your time in this charming county, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the top 17 enjoyable things to do in Charlevoix, Michigan.
Charlevoix is a town on the shores of Lake Michigan in the northern portion of the Lower Peninsula. Charlevoix is named after Fr. Pierre François Xavier de Charlevoix. It is well-known for its breathtaking beauty, quaint harbor, energetic downtown, and wealth of outdoor activities.
There are several options, ranging from breathtaking treks and golf courses to fascinating museums and neighborhood restaurants. Charlevoix provides a wide variety of activities to accommodate any traveler’s preferences, whether they are organizing a quick weekend trip or a longer stay.
At the Charlevoix Farmers Market, where you can purchase locally grown produce, meats, honey, jams, jellies, baked goods, and other artisan products, discover the thriving arts scene. At Beaver Island, have some fun exploring the natural world. Discover the South Pier Light Station, Mushroom House, and numerous other attractions in Charlevoix, which makes it an ideal destination for year-round vacations.
17 Fun & Best Activities In Charlevoix, Michigan for 2024
1. Charlevoix South Pier Light Station
One of the must-see sights in Charlevoix, Michigan, is the South Pier Light Station. Initially constructed on the north pier in 1884. However, it was relocated to the south pier in 1914, where a larger, metal tower was erected.
The existing building is a steel tower with a height of thirteen meters (forty-three feet). The Charlevoix South Light Station is owned by the City of Charlevoix and is cared for and conserved by the Charlevoix Historical Society.
The lighthouse is well-known for offering picturesque views of Lake Michigan and captivating locations for photographs.
Address: 2 Grant Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
2. Castle Farms
Castle Farms exploration is one of the romantic activities to do in Charlevoix, Michigan, with your significant other.
The farm is a well-liked location for weddings, gatherings, and touring because of its distinctive blend of historical charm, lovely grounds, and contemporary conveniences.
It was built in 1918 by Albert Loeb and has towering towers, stone arches, and lovely courtyards reminiscent of French Normandy castles.
Situated in the stunning resort area of Charlevoix, Castle Farms is the site of numerous special events held all year long, including festivals, weddings, galas, and business gatherings. In Charlevoix, Castle Farms is a worthwhile visit.
Address: 1054 US-31 N, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
3. Charlevoix Farmers Market
One of the most unusual things to do in Charlevoix, Michigan, with your family is the Charlevoix Farmers Market, which is situated along Bridge Street and offers views of Round Lake.
From mid-May to mid-October, the Charlevoix farmers market is open every Thursday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. For more visibility, the market temporarily relocates to Bridge Park during the Venetian Festival.
Additionally, merchants can offer locally grown produce, meats, honey, jams, jellies, baked goods, and other artisan products at the Charlevoix Farmers Market while also helping the community.
Visit the Charlevoix Farmers Market as part of your itinerary to get a sense of the lively market community.
Address: 307 Bridge Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
4. Beaver Island
One of the greatest outdoor activities in Charlevoix, Michigan, is Beaver Island, which lies roughly 32 miles northwest of the resort city. Thousands of tourists visit Beaver Island each year because of its stunning natural surroundings and fascinating history.
At 13 miles long and 6 miles wide, Beaver Island is the largest island in Lake Michigan. Before European settlers came, the island was inhabited for generations by the Odawa and Ojibwe people. Today, the island has a strong feeling of community and is a haven for writers, artists, and nature enthusiasts.
In addition, there are beautiful hiking paths on the island that loop through wetlands, dunes, and woodlands. Paddleboarding is another option available in Lake Michigan’s pristine waters.
Address: 103 Bridge Park Drive, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
5. Mushroom House
One of the nicest things to do in Charlevoix, Michigan, with your family is to explore the mushroom house. Its dynamic layout offers a lively, home-away-from-home experience.
Founded in 1918 by Earl Young, who used his exceptional artistic and technical abilities to create remarkable structures around Charlevoix that are worthy of being seen, some of these incredible constructions are The Half House, The Thatched House, and the Mushroom House.
Moreover, Charlevoix Mushroom House Tours provides guided walking tours with enthusiastic interpreters who can impart fascinating information about the homes and Earl Young’s architectural style.
Address: 106 Park Avenue, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
6. Little Traverse Wheelway
One of the most enjoyable activities in Charlevoix, Michigan, to do with your friends is to explore the Little Traverse Wheelway. It begins at Charlevoix Township Hall, which is located on Waller Road half a mile off US-31, and terminates close to Hoyt and Lake Streets on the east side of Harbor Springs.
The Little Traverse Wheelway is a 26.65-mile paved path that runs across Charlevoix and Emmet Counties in Michigan. It was first constructed in 1880.
Walking, jogging, inline skating, and bikers all love this route because it provides breathtaking vistas of Little Traverse Bay.
You’ll want to include this quick but worthwhile trip on your Charlevoix itinerary.
Address: Charlevoix Township Hall, 0.5 miles from US-31 on Waller Road, Charlevoix, MI, United States.
7. Friske’s Farm Market
Popular for its wonderful cuisine, varied selection of locally sourced goods, and family-friendly ambiance, Friske’s Farm Market is a must-visit location.
Fresh vegetables, baked products, specialized cuisines, and locally made crafts are all sold at this market. A restaurant offering freshly prepared pies, doughnuts, pizzas, and other delights is also located at the market.
Additionally, the market has a 10,000-square-foot playground where kids can run off steam and climb, slide, and have limitless fun. There’s also a huge inflatable jumping pillow where kids can bounce around for hours.
For an exciting day spent with the family, Friske’s Farm Market is a fantastic destination. Indulge in a delectable lunch, let the kids run wild in the play area, fill up on fresh goods, and take in the allure of a nearby farm.
Address: 10743 US-31, Ellsworth, MI 49729, United States.
8. North Seas Gallery And Antiques
Admiring the exquisite artwork at North Seas Gallery and Antiques is one of the enjoyable activities for art fans in Charlevoix, Michigan.
North Seas Gallery and Antiques was founded in 1989 and specializes in paintings from the 19th and early 20th centuries that are Dutch, landscape paintings from the Soviet era, and paintings by local artists.
A selection of unique vintage sculptures, furniture, art glass, and pottery will be available for visitors to peruse. The site is updated with new things uploaded all year round, and the gallery is open seasonally from April to December.
Address: 501 Bridge Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
9. Belvedere Club
Belvedere Club exploration is one of the most entertaining things to do in Charlevoix, Michigan, at night. The Belvedere Club is a private summer home organization with a distinct personality and a long history.
Founded in 1878 by Kalamazoo Baptists, it was once known as the Charlevoix Summer Resort Association. transformed in 1923 and took on the name Belvedere Club, becoming a more societal and secular summer community.
The club has 86 summer villas tucked away amid the natural beauty of a 50-acre park-like environment. Built before 1900, the Belvedere Club boasts a unique architectural design featuring textured wall surfaces and elaborate bargeboard cupolas.
Visit the Belvedere Club in Charlevoix as part of the itineraries; it offers a window into a former age of summer vacations.
Address: 5731 Marion Center Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
10. Jordan River
Investigating the Jorden River is among the top outdoor pursuits in Charlevoix for those who enjoy the outdoors. Being the first river to be recognized under the 1972 Natural Rivers Act of the State of Michigan, the Jordan River is significant historically.
The river offers fishing as it meanders through a picturesque area with verdant trees, undulating hills, and a variety of fauna.
Seeing birds, turtles, and other animals in their natural habitat is possible on paddling excursions, which provide a unique viewpoint of the surrounding environment. All skill levels will find canoeing and kayaking to be a soothing exercise due to the tranquil waters.
Additionally, there are hiking routes along the Jordan River’s riverbed that provide chances for picnics, birdwatching, and just taking in the landscape and fresh air.
Address: Jordan River, Michigan, United States.
11. Lake Charlevoix
One of the best things to do in Charlevoix, Michigan, is explore Lake Charlevoix, one of the largest inland lakes in Michigan with a surface size of approximately 17,200 acres and a shoreline spanning 56 miles.
A well-liked location for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports is Lake Charlevoix. There are numerous resorts and cottages around the lake. Numerous fish species, including walleye, pike, bass, perch, and muskie, can be found in the lake.
The lake is an excellent location for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding because of its quiet waters.
Additionally, there are several public beaches around the lake, such as Lake Charlevoix Beach Park in East Jordan and Depot Beach in Charlevoix.
Address: Jordan River, Michigan, United States.
12. Bier Art Gallery And Pottery Studio
Investigating Bier Art Gallery and Pottery Studio is among the greatest and most enjoyable things to do for art lovers in Charlevoix, Michigan. The gallery is hosting a vibrant exhibition featuring works by more than sixty local, national, and international artists, many of whom are gallery exclusives.
The gallery is housed in a quaint red-and-white schoolhouse that offers a picturesque perspective of the countryside and Lake Michigan, making it the perfect backdrop for the artwork.
Additionally, the gallery features over forty-five local and national artists, many of whom donate exclusively, making the selections distinctive and varied. For this reason, art enthusiasts should not miss it.
Address: 3500 US-31, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
13. Hotel Walloon
One of the greatest locations close to Charlevoix, Michigan, is Hotel Walloon, which is situated on the banks of Walloon Lake. The Hotel Walloon is renowned for its opulent lodgings, charming old-world charm, and breathtakingly beautiful surroundings.
A private beach, dock slips, on-site dining with a vintage feel, and spacious guest rooms with elegant design and modern conveniences are just a few of the hotel’s fascinating attractions. It was established in 2015.
Come to Charlevoix, Michigan, and stay at Hotel Walloon for an opulent and restful vacation.
Address: 3100 Walloon Lake Drive, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
14. Ironton Ferry
Visiting the Ironton Ferry with your family and friends is one of the activities to do in the vicinity of Charlevoix.
Ironton, which is located south of Lake Charlevoix, is connected to Boyne City, which is located on the other side, by the Ironton Ferry, which runs across the lake’s South Arm.
It is usually open from mid-April to mid-November. The business is open from 6:30 am till 10:30 pm. It offers a detour for visitors from the Charlevoix region who wish to go to Boyne City without having to drive around the entire lake.
A ferry journey is often included in the itineraries of visitors to the Charlevoix area.
Address: Irons Road, Boyne City, MI 49712, United States.
15. Fisherman’s Island State Park
One of the enjoyable outdoor activities near Charlevoix, Michigan, is exploring Fisherman’s Island State Park, which is only 4 miles from the town along the Lake Michigan coast.
The roughly 2,678-acre park features bogs of black spruce and cedar, rolling dunes covered in aspen, birch, and maple, a rustic campground, a 2.5-mile hiking track, and a day-use area.
In the fall, hunters and rockhounds use the park. Fishing, swimming, and camping are all excellent activities at Fisherman’s Island State Park.
Address: 16480 Bells Bay Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
16. Charlevoix Football Field
Investigating the Charlevoix football field is one of the most entertaining activities for sports fans in Charlevoix, Michigan.
The Charlevoix football field, which is overseen by the Charlevoix Public Schools district, is mostly used for athletic events during school hours; however, public athletic events are planned outside of school hours.
Additionally, the football field has a regulation-sized football field that may be used for other sporting events in addition to high school games. Running tracks, bleachers, field lighting, bathrooms, and food booths are other amenities.
For sports fans, Charlevoix Footfield is among the greatest locations to work off some calories.
Address: Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
17. North Point Nature Preserve
It was founded in 1988 and is situated next to the Mt. McSauba recreation area, straight north of Charlevoix town. One of the most enjoyable outdoor activities you can do in Charlevoix, Michigan, with your friends is exploring the North Point Nature Preserve.
North Point Nature Preserve, which is only 27 acres in size, has a network of paths that wind through a variety of ecosystems and three protected threatened plant species: pitcher’s thistle, lake huron tansy, and pumpell’s bromegrass.
Enjoy a tranquil getaway from the bustling Charlevoix region at North Point Nature Preserves, where you may explore a variety of plant species and maybe even see some wildlife like shorebirds, porcupines, or deer.
Address: McSauba Road, 49720, United States.
18. Hungry Ducks Farm
One of the most enjoyable things to do in Charlevoix, Michigan, with your family is to explore Hungry Ducks Farm. Take a picnic under the pavilion when you visit, or spend the day exploring the museum.
One wristband can be used at Hungry Duck Farm to enjoy unlimited rides, a pass to pet farm animals, an interesting tour of historical collections of antique toys and doll houses, and much more.
Come to Hungry Duck Farm today and let your children run about and pet farm animals while you take in some fresh air.
Address: 4580 M-66, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
19. Charlevoix Dog Park
Tucked behind the ball fields on Carpenter Street, this dog park is a great spot to take your four-legged companion for a fun day. It’s secure and enclosed in the park so you may play and go around without a leash.
The Charlevoix Dog Park is set up with an area dedicated to older or special needs dogs as well as a separator for dogs of all sizes, including large and little dogs.
The Charlevoix Dog Park is an excellent place for your dog to run off some steam, interact with other dogs, and have a great time.
Address: 406 W Carpenter Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
20. East Park
Visiting East Park is one of the most enjoyable activities in Charlevoix, Michigan. This lovely park, which is right in the middle of Charlevoix’s center, provides breathtaking views of Round Lake and Charlevoix Harbor, providing a lovely setting for your stay.
A state-of-the-art Outdoor Pavilion, benches, and picnic spots, a walking path, restrooms, a public marina and boating amenities, an interactive water fountain, a living trough habitat, and a stream are all attractions of Charlevoix East Park.
East Park is a fun location to spend quality time with your family while taking in some gorgeous scenery.
Address: 307 Bridge St, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.