Weekend Getaway Guide: Petoskey, Harbor Springs & Walloon Lake

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that blends lakefront beauty, small-town charm, and four-season adventure, head to the Petoskey area in northern Michigan. This corner of the Lower Peninsula is a favorite for a reason: clear blue waters, historic downtowns, scenic drives, and some of the best food and wine in the state.

Where to Stay

Downtown Petoskey offers walkability, historic charm, and easy access to restaurants and shops. Try The Perry Hotel for lake views and Victorian vibes, or Hotel Earl for a modern boutique experience.

Walloon Lake has a more secluded, upscale feel. Hotel Walloon is luxurious and perfectly situated for lake access and relaxation.

Harbor Springs is quaint and artsy. The Colonial Inn is a popular choice with easy access to both town and the beach.

Day 1: Petoskey

Morning: Start your day with coffee and a croissant from North Perk Coffee, a cozy downtown café. Then explore the Gaslight District, full of unique boutiques, galleries, and bookshops. Don’t miss McLean & Eakin Booksellers, a local favorite.

Midday: Walk the shoreline at Petoskey State Park, where you might just find a Petoskey stone or two. Pack a picnic or grab sandwiches from Symons General Store to enjoy at the beach.

Evening: Have dinner at Pour Kitchen & Bar, known for elevated comfort food and a killer wine list. If you're in the mood for a nightcap, Beards Brewery offers lake views and craft brews.

Day 2: Harbor Springs

Morning: Head across the bay to Harbor Springs and grab breakfast at Small Batch at the Cupola, known for their baked goods and quiche.

Late Morning: Explore the downtown shops and then drive the Tunnel of Trees (M-119), one of Michigan’s most scenic roads. If you're up for a short hike, stop at Thorne Swift Nature Preserve for boardwalk trails and beach access.

Afternoon: Return to town for lunch at The New York Restaurant, a Harbor Springs staple. Afterward, relax at the beach or take a sailing lesson if the weather's right.

Evening: Try Pierson’s Grille & Spirits for a relaxed dinner and live music. End the day with a walk along the harbor.

Day 3: Walloon Lake

Morning: Check out of your hotel and make your way to Walloon Lake. Start your morning at Cafe Sante in nearby Boyne City for a hearty European-style brunch.

Late Morning: Explore Walloon Village, with a stop at Legacy Water Sports & Marina for lake gear and rentals. Rent a paddleboard or pontoon and spend some time on the water.

Afternoon: If you're not ready to head home, spend your final afternoon wine tasting at Walloon Lake Winery or strolling the nearby nature preserves.

Other Highlights:

• Wine & Cider Tasting: Pond Hill Farm in Harbor Springs offers wine, cider, and farm-to-table fare.
• History Buffs: Visit the Little Traverse History Museum housed in a restored train depot.
• Fall Bonus: This region explodes with color in autumn, especially along the Tunnel of Trees and around Walloon Lake.

Whether you're in it for the lake life, charming towns, or scenic drives, the Petoskey-Harbor Springs-Walloon Lake region offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. It’s a getaway that’ll leave you refreshed—and already planning your return.

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