On the way to or from Petoskey, make sure to drive through Charlevoix, Michigan. This has been a popular vacation destination since the 1880s. It is a picturesque small town with lovely marinas downtown along Round Lake. Make sure to visit the Charlevoix South Pier Light Station or Lighthouse, located at 2 Grant St., on Lake Michigan at the entrance to Lake Charlevoix. The first lighthouse opened in 1885 but has been expanding and remodeled over the years.
Harwood Gold Cafe: At 230 Bridge St., this a popular spot to buy their maple syrup products. Popular items include a Maple BBQ Sauce, a Roasted Hazelnut Maple Syrup, preserves, granola and trail mix. You can also have lunch or an espresso drink!
Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant, in a renovated grist mill, gets good reviews for its regional cuisine with outdoor deck and views of the drawbridge and boats. 106 Pine River Ln.
Many people enjoy visiting the Hobbit Houses, or Mushroom Houses, designed by Earl Young. He built over 30 of these quirky houses from 1918 to the 1950s. Many have undulating stone walls capped by a mushroom shaped cedar shake roof. You can stop by the visitors center and get a brochure for a self-guided tour or check out the Mushroom House Tours for a guided experience.
