Posted on April 18, 2024
If you travel the west coast of Michigan's lower peninsula from the Indiana state line to Mackinaw City, you'll travel about 400 miles. Each stretch takes on a unique character and charm, but all share breathtaking beauty around every corner.
This segment of that trip will take you from Charlevoix to the northern tip of of lower peninsula, across the Mackinac Bridge, and just inside the upper peninsula in St. Ignace, with a round trip to Mackinac Island.
Start your day in Charlevoix with a stop at Harwood Gold Store and Café. You can pick up some maple syrup products plus grab some coffee and pastries for breakfast to enjoy on the grounds of Castle Farms, a former dairy farm and now, much more. On you tour, take in 100 years of history, view a collection of royal family memorabilia from around the world; feed the fish; and be entertained by the state's largest outdoor model railroad, with more than 2,500 feet of track. Plan to spend at least two hours here.
By now you've worked up an appetite, so head back downtown and check out The Villager Pub, a highly rated lcoal favorite. Choose from the tavern side for a more laid-back meal with TVs, a jukebox and 1950s memorabilia behind the bar, or opt for the other side of the pub for quieter dining. The mouthwatering menu is heavy on fish options and lists 24 beers on tap.
In the afternoon, history buffs should not miss the Harsha House Museum to learn about the town's rich history, and then view a charming collection of "mushroom houses" on a self-guided or official tour. You can also take a Hemingway tour to see the places Ernest Hemingway frequented during his many visits here.
Or, you could spend your afternoon at Michigan Beach Park, with its white sand, Petoskey stones, concessions and more. From the park, walk to the pier and South Pier Lighthouse, which sits at the opening of the Pine River Channel that connects Lake Michigan to Round Lake.
Charlevoix has a staggering number of brew pubs, but you might choose a fine dining expereice on the water at The Weathervane. The restaurant overlooks the Pine River Channel and features a massive stone fireplace in the shape of Michigan's lower peninsula. Don't worry if you're still in your beach clothes: They make a point to say there's no dress code, so come as you are.
From here, you're an easy walk away from your accommodations for the night. Book a room at Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites, just 300 feet from the beach.
Today you'll head north to Mackinaw City, a place to slow down and enjoy all that nature has to offer. But don't move too slow: It also boasts three lighthouses, and you'll want to see them all.
Your first stop will be 11 miles outside Mackinaw City: Wilderness State Park, which wraps around Sturgeon Bay along the west coast. The park has 26 miles of beach and more than 20 miles of hiking trails if you're looking to stretch your legs. You'll have to admire the 170-year-old Waugoshance Lighthouse, which has a long and complicated history, from a distance, as it sits at the end of a chain of small islands.
Next you'll head up the road to McGulpin Point Lighthouse. It has been extensively restored and is open to the public. On the grounds, take a look at McGulpin Rock and enjoy a stroll on the Discovery Trail to learn more about the site's history from costumed re-enactors who bring the stories of life.
For lunch in Mackinaw City, you could try the iconic Wienerlicious, touted as the most photographed attraction in Mackinaw City. If hot dogs aren't on your wish list, another great option on the way to your next stop is Audie's Family Restaurant. It's extensive menu has something for everyone, and the long list of "Heidi's Homemade Desserts" make this a tantalizing choice.
Today's third and final lighthouse is Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. You can tour the lighthouse tower, and the site also features authentically restored keepers' quarters, a shipwreck museum and fog whistle demonstration. Once you've had your fill here, head into downtown Mackinaw City to check in at the sprawling Brigadoon Bed and Breakfast. If you're there in the afternoon, you just might snag a freshly baked cookie to tide you over until dinnertime.
For dinner, check out Hook Lakeside Grill, with a balcony that has stunning views of the harbor. They have two bars with 34 beers on tap and a menu that features, of course, a lot of seafood. There's a historic railway and ferry exhibit inside the restaurant as well.
It's been a long day, don't sleep yet, especially if it's a clear night! Make the 3 1/2-mile drive over to the Headlands International Dark Sky Park to see the stars like you've never seen them before. This page has important information to help you plan a successful visit. (Hint: Timing is everything.)
Today you'll drive across the iconic Mackinac Bridge and into St. Ignace to find the Wawatam Lighthouse at Chief Wawatam Park. Built at the end of the St. Ignace Boardwalk, the light shines 13 miles across Lake Huron and even aids snowmobilers on the frozen lake during the dark winter months.
Now that you've made it to the U.P., consider grabbing an authentic pastry for an early lunch. You'll find several casual pastry shops in St. Ignace, but there's also one on the menu at Mackinac Grille & Patio Bar, which is near the lighthouse with a great view of the lake.
The trip to Mackinc Island is just 16 minutes on the Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry. Choose a departure that works with your schedule. You can buy tickets online, but reservations aren't required. Arrive an hour before your scheduled departure and leave your car behind (you will need to pay for overnight parking).
You'll find no cars on Mackinac Island. When you arrive, you'll either take the Mackinac Island Taxi service (which is a horse-drawn buggy) to your accommodations or, depending on where you are staying tonight, you may have a dock porter who will take your luggage from the ferry docks to your room. As for where to say, the classic, can't-miss choice is the Grand Hotel. With unique designs in every 
room, afternoon tea (reservations required) and evening dancing, the hotel is more than just a place to lay your head at night. For a more intimate option, Bay View Bed & Breakfast is right on the water and will feed you afternoon cookies, dessert in the evening and of course a luxurious breakfast before you leave.
It's been a full day already, but you still have a lighthouse to see and an island to explore! More than 80% of Mackinac Island is parkland. Round Island Lighthouse is not open to the public, but you can get the best view from the Mackinac Island Botanical Trail, which is a 30-minute walk that will help you get better acquainted with the nature on the island. It's just one of many beautiful trails to explore here.
From Biddle House to Fort Mackinac, the island is teeming with history, so you'll want to travel around. You can walk, use horses or rent a bike (many varieties are on offer). You can book a horse-drawn carriage tour, rent a buggy to drive yourself or just ride horseback. If you prefer to power yourself around the island, you can choose from many bike rental shops.
However you've chosen to spend the afternoon, eventually the sun will set, and you will need to stop for dinner. The Great Turtle Brewery and Distillery is the island's first craft brewery and distillery. Or, inside the Grand Hotel you'll fine The Gate House, a cozy and casual option that often has live entertainment in the evenings.
With so much to do on the island, if your schedule allows, stick around an extra day. In the morning, depending on where you stay, you may be able to have your luggage transported back to the dock for a later ferry so you can sneak in a bit more exploration before you depart. (And don't forget to pick up some fudge: This is the Fudge Capital of the World!)
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