A Weekend in Charlevoix & Boyne City: Lakefront Charm & Northern Magic

Day 1: Discovering Charlevoix – Stone Cottages, Lake Breezes & Local Charm

Your Northern Michigan escape begins in Charlevoix, where sailboats dot the Round Lake harbor and mushroom houses hide in quiet neighborhoods like fairy-tale secrets.

Morning:
Start your day with a buttery croissant or made-to-order crêpe from That French Place (yes, it’s legit — and locally loved). Sip your espresso on the sidewalk patio while Charlevoix wakes up.

Then explore Bridge Street, the town’s boutique-lined main street. Pick up a cherry-themed snack from Cherry Republic or something artsy at Elements Gallery.

Afternoon:
Ready to stretch your legs? Book a walking tour or use the self-guided map from Mushroom House Tours to see the famous Earl Young homes. Built into boulders and roofed with curved cedar shakes, they’re architectural magic.

Dinner:
Grab a table at Stafford’s Weathervane Restaurant for dinner on the channel. Built by the same designer behind the mushroom homes, it’s historic and scenic. Afterward, stroll to the Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse to watch the sunset paint the sky over Lake Michigan.

Stay the Night:

• Hotel Earl of Charlevoix: Stylish and central, just steps from the water
• Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites: Classic lakefront lodging with balcony views

Day 2: Boyne City – Lake Adventures, Farm Markets & Local Flavor

Just 20 minutes around the lake, Boyne City feels like the fun cousin to Charlevoix: relaxed, unpretentious, and full of lake energy.

Morning:
Fuel up with a rich roast at Lake Charlevoix Coffee Company, then head to Veterans Park for a peaceful morning walk. If it’s Saturday, the Boyne City Farmers Market is a must — with fresh flowers, baked goods, and handmade items from local artisans.

Midday:
Hit the beach or hiking trails at Young State Park, or rent a kayak from Boyne Water Sports for a paddle around Lake Charlevoix.

Afternoon & Evening:
After the water, take yourself on a local tasting tour without ever leaving town:

• Stiggs Brewery & Kitchen: Cozy wood interior, great beer, and smoked meats
• Red Mesa Grill: Caribbean-meets-Latin menu and strong margaritas
• The Whi-Ski Inn: A relaxed local favorite with lake-town dive bar charm

Prefer something lower-key? Grab a sandwich to go and walk the Boyne River Nature Trail, or hunt for unique gifts and apparel at Inspired Living and Boyne Traders.

Day 3: Final Views, Last Bites & Downtown Wandering

Your last day is for soaking it in.

Morning Hike or Lookout:
Climb the steps at Avalanche Preserve for a panoramic view over Boyne City and the lake. It’s a heart-pumping climb but a gorgeous way to say goodbye.

Local Shopping:
Browse Freshwater Art Gallery for regional art and vinyl records, or swing into Northern Table Market for gourmet snacks to take home.

Before You Go:
End with breakfast or lunch at My Grandmother’s Table, a cozy eatery serving from-scratch meals and homemade pies. Or pick up a croissant at Boyne City Bakery — one last sweet taste of Northern Michigan.

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