25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Petoskey, MI
Fun Things To Do In Petoskey
Fun Things To Do In Petoskey. This is the culmination of your search if you’re a visitor or local in Petoskey, Michigan, seeking exciting things to do. Come along as we go over a comprehensive list of the greatest and most enjoyable things to do in Petoskey, Michigan, so you can make the most of your time here.
Petoskey, the largest community in Emmet County and one of the northernmost communities in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, is situated on the southern shore of Little Traverse Bay and serves as the county seat. It takes its name from the fossilized coral known as the Petoskey Stone, which is the state stone of Michigan.
The charming city of Petoskey offers a plethora of exciting indoor and outdoor attractions that will keep you enthralled during your visit. This quaint town offers a number of attractions to make your visit unforgettable, such as Fisherman State Park, Bear River Valley Recreational Area, the Bay Harbour Gulf, and many more.
The Top 25 Exciting Activities In Petoskey, Michigan (2024)
1. Bayfront Park
Visit the 25-acre Bayfront Park to start your journey of Petoskey, Michigan. This treasure trove of recreational opportunities is open year-round.
Situated on the picturesque Little Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan, this family-friendly location offers 7800 feet of public shoreline, a historical museum, hiking and biking trails, picnic shelters, playgrounds for kids of all ages, and a boat launch, among other facilities and amenities.
You can engage in a variety of outdoor activities at Bayfront Park, unwind on the beach, stroll or bike along the Central Promenade, enjoy a picnic beneath a tree, and take in the breathtaking scenery of nature while making lifelong memories.
Address: 101 E Lake Street, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
2. Great Lakes Center For The Arts
Visiting the Great Lakes Center for Arts, a community theater dedicated to providing high-caliber entertainment and opportunities for both locals and visitors, is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Petoskey, Michigan, during the evenings for families.
This 525-seat theater, which opened in 2018, features a huge stage and hosts a range of performances and activities all year long. See a provocative play, a Broadway musical, a mesmerizing dance performance, a comedy, or a drama.
Other exquisite areas available at the Great Lakes Center for Arts include the Community Engagement Room, the Rooftop Terrace with its stunning views of Little Traverse Bay, and the Donor Lounge, where guests may unwind, socialize, sip drinks, and strike up a conversation with friends.
Address: 800 Bay Harbor Drive, Bay Harbor, MI 49770, United States.
3. Bay Harbor Lake Marina
The renowned Bay Harbor Lake Marina is tucked away on the lake’s beaches. Boaters looking for leisure, first-rate amenities, and convenient access to Little Traverse Bay’s crystal-clear waters will find paradise in this top marina.
Lake Marina was founded in 2012 and offers a ton of amenities to make your time on the water more enjoyable, including restrooms, fuel docks, pump-out facilities, and washing facilities. Access to fishing charters is another feature of the marina that lets you take advantage of the abundant aquatic life in Little Traverse Bay.
Beyond the Marina, take advantage of the distinctive stores in the neighborhood, savor delectable meals at restaurants by the water, and attend a range of annual events and festivals.
Address: 832 Front Street, Bay Harbor, MI 49770, United States.
4. Bear River Valley Recreation Area
Activities in Petoskey, Michigan: The Recreation Area in the Bear River Valley is not merely a park. For those looking for a peaceful getaway, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers, this 36-acre sanctuary is the ideal location.
This picturesque valley, which the Bear River sculpted in the middle of Petoskey, Michigan, offers visitors of all ages and skill levels a wide range of experiences.
In addition, there are lovely lakes nearby for swimming, fishing, and camping, as well as a playground for kids with swings, slides, and climbing frames.
Hiking or biking through the picturesque valley, experiencing the thrill of whitewater rafting, exploring the rock formations along the riverbank, going cross-country skiing in the winter, having a picnic in one of the designated picnic areas, or taking a leisurely stroll along the concrete paths and boardwalks are just a few of the many interesting things to do in Petoskey, Michigan.
Address: 302 Ione Street, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
5. Crooked Tree Arts Center
Activities in Petoskey, MI: The Crooked Tree Arts Center, a unique center for creative expression and cultural interaction tucked away in the middle of the city, provides art fans with a wealth of enjoyable activities.
The museum, which opened its doors in 1953, is a veritable gold mine of professionally and amateurish local, regional, and national artists showcasing their creations in a variety of mediums, including arresting sculptures and paintings, provocative installations, and photographs.
In addition, the Crooked Tree Arts Center organizes a range of interesting festivals and events, such as live performances, film screenings, artist discussions, and the much-anticipated July Outdoor Art Fair.
In addition to the arts, the attraction provides several art classes covering a broad range of artistic disciplines, such as jewelry making, ceramics, painting, and drawing.
This art center also features two campuses, including a studio, an art gallery, a gift shop, and a ballet school for developing young dancers.
Address: 461 E Mitchell Street, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
6. Petoskey State Park
For anyone looking for exciting things to do in Petoskey, Michigan, the 1934-established Petoskey State Park offers a great combination of outdoor activities, historical value, and natural beauty.
The centerpiece of this 303-acre park is a mile-long strip of sandy beach, along with a network of picturesque paths and a half-mile circle track that leads to Old Baldy Dune, which provides expansive views of Little Traverse Bay and the surrounding area.
In addition, Petoskey State Park has two contemporary campgrounds with contemporary amenities, picnic spaces, a well-equipped kids’ play area, hiking and bicycling paths, and a bustling waterfront area with beaches, a kids’ play area, and a historical museum.
Address: 2475 M-119, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
7. Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen
Visit the Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen in Petoskey, Michigan, for a fascinating and exciting experience. This historic monument, haven for sweet tooths, is also a location where you can watch the magic of producing sweets happen in front of your eyes.
Established in 1947, Kilwins Chocolate Kitchen has sizable windows that offer a view into the production kitchen where candy makers create Kilwins’ well-known delights. Savor the chocolates that are hand-dipped and select from the assortment of chocolates that are on display.
Taste Kilwins’s famous Mackinac Island Fudge, a rich and creamy fudge recipe that has been passed down through the generations, and discover a range of other fudge flavors, from traditional peanut butter to daring choices like salted caramel or cookies and cream, if you’re looking for fun things to do in Petoskey with kids.
Additionally, pick from a lovely assortment of gift baskets and pre-packaged sweets that are ideal for treating a loved one or bringing a little bit of Petoskey’s sweetness home with you.
Address: 1050 Bay View Road, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
8. Little Traverse History Museum
Explore the Little Traverse History Museum, a hidden gem that offers a fascinating window into the rich and colorful past of the area, as one of the entertaining and educational things to do in Petoskey, Michigan, for everyone.
This historic museum offers a wealth of displays, antiques, and narratives that vividly depict Petoskey’s development. It is housed within the quaintly restored Chesapeake & Ohio Railway Depot, constructed in 1892.
Explore a varied range of permanent and rotating exhibits that appeal to a wide range of interests as you travel back in time. Examples of these exhibits include those that highlight the rich history and cultural heritage of the Odawa people, as well as exhibits that feature artifacts, photographs, and stories that highlight Ernest Hemingway’s connection to Petoskey.
This museum also acts as a community center, hosting talks, workshops, and educational activities all year round.
Address: 100 Depot Ct., Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
9. Petoskey Winter Sports Park
Experience the charm of winter at the Petoskey Winter Sports Park, a refuge for exciting family-friendly activities and icy fun in Petoskey, Michigan.
This entertaining athletic park, which is open from late December to mid-March, has a range of activities to keep you occupied during the chilly months. This park has a dedicated hockey rink for hockey fans, as well as marked sledding slopes and a smooth ice rink.
Enjoy a hot beverage to melt the frost after a day of thrilling winter activities, and indulge in delectable snacks or a light meal from the concession stand. All of this while relaxing in the warm, fireplace-equipped warming house.
Address: 1100 Winter Park Lane, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
10. Bay Harbor Golf Club
Things To Do In Petoskey, MI: Booking a tee time at the well-equipped and conventional Bay Habour Golf Club is one among the many fun things to do in Petoskey, MI this weekend.
Three separate nine-hole courses make up the well-kept 27-hole championship golf course, which sprawls across a vast region and offers a breathtaking perspective of Lake Michigan.
For both experienced and inexperienced players, this expansive course offers a tranquil and quiet golfing experience as it meanders through a forested setting.
In addition, Bay Habour Golf Club features an elegant event center, a pro shop, a driving range, a chipping green, a putting green, and breathtaking views of the surrounding area that are ideal for unwinding and relaxing while you wait for your time to play. These features allow you to warm up before your round or improve your game.
Address: 5800 Coastal Ridge Drive, Bay Harbor, MI 49770, United States.
11. Boyne Mountain Resort
Are you looking for an amazing option for your holiday in Petoskey? The most leisurely activities around Petoskey can be found at Boyne Mountain Resort, a family-friendly resort in Michigan’s picturesque Boyne Valley that is less than 30 minutes away by car.
Nestled within the picturesque Boyne Valley, Boyne Mountain Resort offers a variety of lodging alternatives to suit your requirements and tastes, including opulent slopeside hotels, quaint condos, and rustic cabins.
In addition to 415 skiable acres, two championship golf courses, a variety of terrain, 63 downhill snowboarding tracks, hiking and biking paths, and a restorative spa treatment at The Spa at Boyne Mountain, the resort complex offers other amenities to make your trip to Petoskey more exciting.
In addition, the resort offers a range of year-round activities, including the Avalanche Bay waterpark, which offers exhilarating slides, a lazy river, wave pools, and an activity pool for nonstop family fun.
Address: 1 Boyne Mountain Road, Boyne Falls, MI 49713, United States.
12. Bill’s Farm Market
One of the fun things to do with kids in Petoskey, Michigan is to explore Bill Farm Market, a bustling place that connects you to the region’s agricultural past and offers a taste of the local bounty.
Fresh, locally grown vegetables at its ripest is available at Bill’s Farm Market. Discover a colorful assortment of produce that changes with the seasons.
You may discover rhubarb, asparagus, and crisp lettuce in the early spring. Be welcomed by vibrant flowers, juicy tomatoes, vibrant peppers, and Michigan’s well-known sweet corn as summer approaches. Crisp apples, squash, and pumpkins abound throughout the fall and are ideal for picking.
The Bills Farm Market should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for delicious artisan goods, fresh, high-quality produce, gorgeous flowers, and a chance to meet the local farmers.
Address: 4450 E Mitchell Rodd, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
13. Odawa Casino
One of the enjoyable and memorable things to do in Petoskey, Michigan, for adults is to explore the Odawa Casino, which is a one-stop shop for entertainment and leisure, right in the middle of the city.
The casino is close to Petoskey’s beauty and offers a lively ambiance, a wide variety of gaming options, and cozy lodging. Play table games like craps, roulette, and blackjack, as well as slot machines and a poker area.
In addition, the casino offers a variety of on-site artworks, cozy hotel accommodations, a coffee shop, live entertainment such as comedy and music acts, and award-winning eating options.
Address: 1760 Lears Road, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
14. Fisherman’s Island State Park
Within thirty minutes of Petoskey, Fisherman’s Island State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a variety of fun activities for visitors to Petoskey, Michigan.
This honeycomb, which covers more than 2,000 acres, offers exciting activities like mountain biking, rock gathering, trekking through verdant forests, undulating dunes, and secret wetlands, as well as peaceful boating and fishing.
In addition, the park offers picnic areas, wildlife viewing, canoeing and kayaking, deer shooting, panoramic views of the six miles of immaculate Lake Michigan beachfront, and rustic camping.
Enjoy a variety of exciting activities, unwind by the lake, or reconnect with nature in a lovely environment as you take a vacation from the bustle of daily life.
Address: 16480 Bells Bay Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.
15. Resort Pike Cidery & Winery
If you love wine, you should put a trip to Resort Pike Cidery & Winery on your list of things to do in Petoskey, Michigan, this weekend. It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy artisan bears.
The brewery uses fresh, regional fruit to create a wide variety of handcrafted ciders and sparkling wines. The tasting area has a laid-back vibe, lots of seats, and a sizable patio outside where you can sip on your drinks and take in the beautiful scenery and fresh air.
This family-friendly location hosts unique events all year long, such live music nights and themed tastings, and provides younger guests with non-alcoholic options like juice and sparkling water.
Address: 3471 Resort Pike Road, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
16. Little Traverse Bay Ferry
Searching for enjoyable activities in Petoskey? Take a 25-minute boat ride around Little Traverse Bay; this is a must-do activity for adventure seekers who want to explore the quaint settlements that are connected by the bay.
Little Traverse Bay Ferry was founded in 2020 and runs from May through September, connecting Petoskey, Harbour Springs, and Bay Harbour. The route offers breathtaking scenery as you sail between the little towns.
As a fun-seeking visitor to Petoskey, enjoy a peaceful 25-minute guided tour of Little Traverse Bay. Take sunset excursions in the summertime for a memorable and romantic opportunity to take in Little Traverse Bay’s natural beauty as the sun sets.
Address: Harbor Springs, MI 49740, United States.
17. Know Way Out Escape Room
Are you trying to find an engaging adventure that will test your humor and cooperative abilities? In Petoskey, there are exciting family-friendly activities to enjoy, like the Know Way Out Escape Room.
This escape room was founded in 2016 and offers puzzle games, a range of chambers, and immersive, difficult escape room themes to let families and friends experience teamwork, problem-solving, and group cooperation.
The Know Way Out Escape Room is a thrilling experience that puts your cooperation and mental acuity to the test. With a variety of escape rooms to pick from and an emphasis on enjoyment, it’s the ideal location for a memorable trip to Petoskey.
Address: 1691 US-131, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
18. Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark
One of the many exciting things to do in Petoskey is to cool down at the Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark, which is tucked away within the Boyne Mountain Resort and offers a plethora of entertaining and recreational activities.
Established in 2005, this recreation facility boasts 88,000 square feet and serves as a focal point for family fun, fitness, and community events.
From the adrenaline-pumping Big Couloir, a 360-degree extreme body slide with the steepest drop in the industry, to gentler slides ideal for little children, this attraction offers a choice of water slides to suit all thrill levels.
Avalanche Park also has a kids’ pool, hot tubs, surf simulator, lazy river, and activity pools with water cannons, tipping buckets, and waterfalls that are sure to keep kids occupied for hours.
Address: 1 Boyne Mountain Road, Boyne Falls, MI 49713, United States.
19. Petoskey District Library
A treasure trove offering a variety of book collections, resources, and events for all ages, the Petoskey District Library is one of the best and most educational things to do in Petoskey, Michigan, for everyone.
With 67,149 physical and 27,942 digital items in its collection, the library has circulated 144,750 items to 7,136 users in the past year. It also features meeting spaces, quick internet access, and sections dedicated to serving a range of age groups.
Extra services include lending books, taking part in courses, or just lounging with a good book. Explore this wealth of information and resources when you’re in Petoskey.
Address: 500 E Mitchell Street, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
20. Little Shop In The Alley
Activities in Petoskey, Michigan: The Little Shop in the Alley adds a touch of mystery and exploration to your journey in Petoskey. This attraction, which is well-known for its vivid colors and eclectic mix of artwork, has a wide selection that suits a range of artistic preferences.
For those who enjoy art, exploring this gallery provides an enriching experience of unique things to do in Petoskey. You can discover a variety of artistic genres, discover a hidden local treasure, and be inspired by the stunning artwork on display.
Address: 407 Michigan Street #3, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
21. Maple Moon Sugarbush And Winery
Touring the first and only winery in America to ferment maple syrup into wine is one of the exciting and daring things to do in Petoskey.
Since its establishment in 2011, the Maple Moon Sugarbush and Winery has provided guests with a unique springtime experience by allowing them to observe the process of extracting maple sap directly from the trees and gain knowledge of the age-old sugarbush techniques.
In the summer, take part in events such as sampling the several grades of maple syrup that are produced on-site, as well as sweets like ice cream, maple candy, and root beer.
Take a tour of the 80 gorgeous acres that make up Sugarbush during your visit to view the maple trees and discover the process of making maple syrup. You can also shop for products like maple syrup, jams, salsas, and homemade maple granola to take a taste of Petoskey home with you.
Address: 4454 Atkins Road, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
22. Joie De Vie Antiques
One of the fun things to do in Petoskey, Michigan for families is to explore Joie De Vie Antiques, an antique store that was founded in 1986 and features a sizable selection of European style furniture and decorative objects with a particular look.
Antique furniture, vintage apparel, décor pieces, and relics are all on display at this site. Also, a warm and inviting environment is provided for guests.
Along with varied antiques and uncommon treasures, stylish contemporary pieces from Italy, Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands can be found at Joie De Vie Antiques.
Address: 1901 M-119, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
23. Somebody’s Gallery
Somebody’s Gallery, a haven of beautiful artworks showcasing Petoskey’s rich history and culture, is tucked away on Lake Street in the center of the Gaslight District and provides art fans with a variety of unusual things to do in Petoskey, Michigan.
The gallery offers a range of interests and tastes with its selection of handcrafted paintings, sculptures, furniture, jewelry, and other items.
Additionally, Somebody’s Gallery hosts special events that appeal to a wide range of ages and skill levels, including live music events, art demonstrations, and seminars held in a lively setting.
Address: 302 E Lake Street, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
24. Sunset Park
If you love the outdoors and live near Petoskey, Michigan, then checking out Sunset Park, a roadside park with breathtaking views of Little Traverse Bay and a terrific place to relax and take in the landscape, should be at the top of your list of free family-friendly activities this weekend.
The serene park, which is immediately above Bayfront Park and located on US-31 at Winter Park Lane, takes pride in its stunning panorama that offers sweeping views of the water and a picture-perfect setting.
This site has a gazebo that’s great for lounging, having a picnic, or reading a book. There’s a stairway that leads from Sunset Park to Bayfront Park, where guests can use binoculars to see the boats on the sea, the far shoreline, or even the birds swooping overhead.
Visitors to Sunset Park may rest in the peaceful surroundings and escape the stress of everyday life. They can also take in the expansive view of the bay, watch sailboats float by, or just take in the beauty of a brilliant sunset.
Address: 101 E Lake Street, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States
25. Skyline Trail Viewing Platform
Discovering the Skyline walk Viewing Platform, a picturesque walk with stunning views of the Bear River Valley and a sight of far-off Lake Michigan, is one of the many exciting things to do in Petoskey if you’re a nature enthusiast.
This observation platform is the ideal location for nature lovers, photographers, and anybody else looking for some peace and breathtaking beauty. It offers gorgeous views of the rolling hills and lush vegetation of the Bear River Valley, in addition to other enticing sights.
With breathtaking vistas in every season, spring offers a vivid tapestry of greens, and summer bursts with lush greenery and wildflowers. Autumn brings vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows to the scenery, while winter provides a peaceful scene of the valley covered in snow.
Address: Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.
26. Bubbling Spring Nature Preserve
Complete our list of enjoyable and distinctive activities in Petoskey, Michigan, with a visit to the Bubbling Spring Nature Preserve, which is a hive of the area’s different ecosystems and natural landscape splendor.
The main draws of this 15-acre preserve are the natural bubbling springs and the short, looping trail that winds across the property. The area offers several visually appealing excursions. Families with little children, casual walkers, and anybody looking for a quick escape into nature will find this easy stroll ideal.
When exploring the preserve during your stay, keep an eye out for any sightings of wildlife. You may see squirrels running across the forest floor, birds darting among the trees, or even a glimpse of a reptile or amphibian in the wetland areas.