If you're searching for the very best things to do in Bay Harbor MI, you've probably currently realized this location feels a bit like a hidden slice of the Mediterranean sea saved in Northern Michigan. It's obtained that upscale, resort-town vibe where the water is unbelievably blue and the streets are paved along with bricks, but it's also way more placed back than you may expect. Whether you're stopping through on the road trip upward the M-119 or you're settling in for a week-long vacation, there will be plenty to keep you busy.
Wander Throughout the Village at Bay Harbor
The guts of everything is really the Village. It's where you'll discover most of the shops, restaurants, and that classic "vacation" atmosphere. Honestly, one particular of the simplest things to do is just get a coffee and go walking. The structures is beautiful, and there's always some thing to look at.
The shops here aren't your typical souvenir shops. You'll find high end clothing, unique home decor, and specialty gifts. Even in case you aren't preparing on a shopping spree, window buying is half the fun. During the summer, the Village is usually buzzing with people, and you may even capture some live songs or a specific event like the classic car present or an art fair.
Get in a film from the Great Ponds Center for the particular Arts
You wouldn't necessarily expect a world-class performing arts center in a small northern city, but the Great Ponds Center for the particular Arts is really a total gem. The venue itself is stunning—modern, intimate, and developed so there isn't a bad seat in the house.
They bring in some seriously impressive talent, ranging from Broadway superstars and symphony orchestras to popular nation singers and comedians. It's a good way to spend an evening in the event that you want to spice up a small and enjoy several culture after the day spent upon the water. Check out their calendar before going, because tickets for that big-name shows have a tendency to sell out there pretty fast.
Explore the Little Traverse Wheelway
If you're the type who can't sit still, you have to get upon the Little Traverse Wheelway. It's a 26-mile paved trail that will connects Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Suspension systems, and it runs best through the center of Bay Harbor.
You can stroll it, but biking could be the way to move. The stretch near Bay Harbor offers the best views of River Michigan you can find. You'll end up being riding along the bluffs, looking down from the turquoise drinking water. It's mostly smooth around the Community, but if you head toward Petoskey, you'll obtain a bit associated with a workout. There are plenty of places to rent bikes nearby if you didn't bring your personal.
Spend Several Quality Time in the Marina
Bay Harbor River Marina is basically the centerpiece of the community. Even if you don't own a yacht (and several of the boats there are really massive), it's a great place to hang out. The marina is protected from the big waves of Lake Michigan, so the water is generally relaxed and glassy.
You can rent a boat during the day or charter the sunset cruise. There's something special regarding seeing the coastline from the drinking water since the sun starts to dip. When you'd rather remain on topsoil, walking the docks will be a perfectly suitable pastime. It's enjoyable to see exactly where all those ships are from—you'll observe registrations from most over the Great Lakes and past.
Hit backlinks at Bay Harbor Golf Club
If you're the golfer, you probably already know concerning this place. It's known as the "Pebble Beach of the North, " and intended for good reason. The Bay Harbor Golf Club features three distinctive nine-hole courses: Backlinks, The Quarry, as well as the Preserve.
Backlinks is the one everybody talks about due to the fact it sits right on the edge from the lake. It's rugged, windy, and absolutely breathtaking. The particular Quarry is special too, winding through an old shale quarry with huge rock walls. It's not an inexpensive round of golf, however for a "bucket list" experience, it's hard to beat. Make absolutely certain you bring extra balls—those coves are unforgiving.
Look for Petoskey Stones
You can't visit this part of Michigan with out doing a very little stone hunting. Whilst Petoskey gets all of the fame, the coastline around Bay Harbor is just since good for seeking the legendary Petoskey stone (which is in fact a fossilized coral).
The optimum time to go is correct right after a storm or even in the early morning when the water is relaxed. Pro tip: the stones are usually much easier to see when they're wet. Look with regard to the distinct hexagon pattern. Even if you don't look for a "keeper, " spending an hour roaming the rocky shoreline is a superb way to clear your head. Just keep an eye out for Charlevoix stones too—they look similar yet have a smaller, circular pattern.
Grab a Bite with a See
The foods scene in Bay Harbor is little but mighty. You've got a couple of strong options right in the Village. For a casual feel, Knots Just a Pub is definitely a local staple. It's right on the particular water, has a great patio, and delivers exactly exactly what you want on the lake day—think fish tacos, burgers, plus cold beer.
If you're looking for something a little bit more upscale, Vintage Chophouse | Wine Club inside the Inn with Bay Harbor will be fantastic. It's nice, sophisticated, and the particular steaks are superior. Breakfast every day or the quick lunch, Maple + Batter is the first choice spot. Their pancakes are legit, and the interior is super Instagram-friendly when that's your issue.
Catch the Sunset at Sunset Beach
This might sound apparent, but you really shouldn't skip the sunset. Because Bay Harbor faces west over Little Traverse Bay, the sunsets are consistently magnificent. There's a small area generally known as Sun Beach where local people and visitors collect to watch the sky turn orange and pink.
Bring a quilt, maybe a number of drinks, and just enjoy the show. It's one of those simple, free things to do in Bay Harbor MI that ends up being the high light of the whole trip.
Check out the Nearby State Parks
While Bay Harbor itself is manicured plus polished, you're just a short drive away from some durable natural beauty. Petoskey Condition Park is just around the corner and offers a massive sandy beach and some great hiking paths like the Old Baldy trail, which usually goes up the sand dune with regard to a panoramic see of the bay.
Heading the other direction, you've obtained Fisherman's Island State Recreation area in Charlevoix. It's a little more "wild" and less crowded, perfect if you would like to escape the resort crowds for a few hours.
Unwind at the Health spa
Sometimes the best thing to do is absolutely nothing. The Hot tub on the Inn from Bay Harbor is usually one of typically the best in the particular region. When the weather conditions isn't cooperating or you're just experiencing burnt out, booking a massage or even a facial this is a total life-saver. They have a relaxation community hall that overlooks water, which is almost as therapeutic because the treatments themselves.
Is Bay Harbor Worth a Visit?
Certainly. Some people believe it's just for the folks which live in the big houses on the hill, but that's not the case. It's the welcoming, beautiful spot that provides a various pace of life. It's quieter compared to downtown Petoskey yet has more of the "resort" feel compared to Harbor Springs.
Whether you're there to bike the trails, eat some good food, or just stare at the lake for three days straight, you won't run out associated with things to do. Just remember to pack a light jacket—even in the middle of September, that lake air flow will get pretty cold when the sun will go down!