Your summer weekend in Charlevoix
Sunset at Bier’s Inwood Brewery
We love our corner of Northern Michigan and nothing beats a summer weekend Up North! While we’re bummed we’re not ready to welcome guests to the farm this summer, we’re excited to share our neighborhood with you.
We’ve got your Charlevoix weekend plans covered right here!
FRIDAY NIGHT
Bier’s Inwood Brewery are our up-the-road neighbors, just a mile from the farm. Check them out for tasty beers, our favorite pizza in Northern Michigan and stunning sunsets over Lake Michigan. Every Friday night in the summer they have live music in their outdoor pavilion overlooking the lake. We’re thrilled to be sponsoring their summer music series this year! Catch us there sipping on a Lakeview Lager and ordering the Bohemian pizza.
Charlevoix Marina on Round Lake.
SATURDAY
Breakfast at Harbor View Cafe and strolls along the Lake Charlevoix Marina have become part of our weekend routine. From the Marina you can follow the path along the Pine River Channel to the South Pier Lighthouse on the Lake Michigan shore.
Make sure to check out the Charlevoix Historical Society installation along the Pine River Channel sharing the history of Indigenous Peoples of Charlevoix. From the beach, you can stroll back into town along Park Avenue and admire Earl Young’s famed Mushroom Houses. Our favorite way to explore Charlevoix is strolling around town in the mornings!
Charlevoix is uniquely located between Lake Michigan and Round Lake, connected by the Pine River. Getting out on the water is a great way to take in the water, natural beauty of the lakeshore and get a peek at the spectacular homes on the water. A cruise on the Sunshine Charters catamaran is a great way to take it all in.
For an alternative water-filled adventure, paddling on the Jordan River takes you through the scenic Jordan Valley. The Jordan Valley Outfitters are located a quick drive south of Charlevoix and offer canoe, kayak, tube and stand-up paddle board rentals.
End the evening with a pre- or post- dinner beverage at Charlevoix’s new wine bar, VUE. They have a lovely new patio overlooking the Pine River.
Our favorite dinner spots in Charlevoix are:
Located in an old Victorian home, Grey Gables offers both an upscale dining experience in their main dining room and a more casual hand-held and sushi menu in their bar area. They also have an excellent wine list.
Bridge Street Taproom has been a favorite since we first moved to Northern Michigan. They have a huge selection of Michigan craft beers on tap, great burgers and views over the marina on Round Lake.
Charlevoix is the second Northern Michigan location for the Back Lot. This food truck roundup looks out over Ferry Beach Park and has lots of room for bigger groups both inside and outside and is pet friendly. With 5 food trucks to pick from, there’s lots of options from fish and chips to sliders and Caribbean barbecue and a wide selection of craft beers and ciders on tap.
Be kind and tip your severs and bartenders who work hard to take care of our influx of summer visitors!
Boats passing through the drawbridge on the Pine River.
SUNDAY
Grab a coffee and stock up on pastries and snacks at Harwood Gold. Their homemade flakey pastries, hand pies and coffees are a great start to the day. They also offer a wide selection of gourmet products made with maple syrup from their fifth-generation owned farm and grab-and-go sandwiches and salads for your beach picnic.
No Northern Michigan weekend is complete without a swim in Lake Michigan. We love Fisherman’s Island State Park. The park boasts more than 6 miles of unspoiled Lake Michigan shoreline. The island (or peninsula when water is lower) for which the park was named is located off the shore of the day-use area. This park is great for both hiking and beach accessible from a single parking lot if like us, you try to cut down your drive time whenever possible.
Sunset swim in Lake Michigan at Fisherman's Island State Park.
WHERE TO STAY
This historic hotel on the shores of Lake Charlevoix is a show stopper! Originally designed and built in the 1950’s by Charlevoix’s famed architect, Earl Young, the hotel has recently been remodeled. The design team preserved much of the original architecture and added luxe, funky design finishes. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth strolling across the bridge and stopping at the chic bar for a night cap.
Fisherman’s Island State Park Campground
The state park has phenomenal lake-front camp sites with better views and proximity to the water than most hotels around!
This family-owned mom & pop motel is conveniently located on US31 10 miles outside of Charlevoix, away from the hustle and bustle of downtown traffic. Clean, cozy rooms “10 minutes from everywhere.” It’s also more affordable than many in-town options.
Ellsworth Cottage with Vineyard Views
This sweet cottage is a little off the beaten path and the perfect northern Michigan getaway. It’s located steps away from Antrim Dells Golf Course, Lake Michigan beaches and has a sauna on-site. It’s also surrounded by vineyards tended by the hosts parents!
SUMMER EVENTS
Whether you’re trying to join in the fun or avoid the crowds, Charlevoix has a busy summer event schedule.
June 25 - 26 Summer Art Show
July 8 Boyne Thunder Boat Race
July 8 – 9 Annual Charlevoix Art & Craft Show
July 16 - 24 Venetian Festival
August 13 Waterfront Art Fair
