This is where Terry realized Weezy's spirit animal was an otter after playing in the bay for hours on end with her and his cousin Vanessa AND showing Weezy her first freshly hunted Petoskey stone (350 million year old fossils that only exist in the area)! There is also the freshest and richest fudge being churned out at Murdick's down the block from the best bay swim spot (near the playground)!
Terry worked as a server here in college at this waterfall, river, and lakeside restaurant. Everything on the menu is delicious and you may even get to see the owner drive his car converted into an amphibious vehicle up the river right next to you while you dine! Fishtown is fun and popping and has all the gift shops and good vacation vibes you need. The smoked whitefish at Carlson's Fishery is a regional delicacy and worth the visit on its own! A short walk away is The Leland Mercantile, a quaint grocery store perfect to build a picnic basket and pick up some locally brewed beer.
The touristy but oh so fun Boondocks restaurant is a great outdoor lunch spot. We recommend ordering the beer battered Canadian Zander perch with fries and coleslaw, it's delicious and they do not skimp on portion! Cherry republic ( a short walk from the restaurant) has all of the local cherry products you could dream of. From candies to salsas and wines, you'll find a locally grown gift to bring home for everyone on your list!
Shopping, restaurants, breweries, nightlife, and James C Smith's modern jewelry shop (he helped design Weezy's engagement ring and his shop is a great place to find out what your partner is into if you're headed in the engagement direction) all next to breathtaking views of Grand Traverse Bay. You can walk along the main street, get an iced coffee or ice cream cone and small bites from a cafe, then head to the water and enjoy a stroll with wind in your hair. There is also a really cool playground for kids.
Sneakers are perfect for this mini 1.2 mile hike and the view will blow your mind! It's a picnic worthy hangout spot perfect for all hiking abilities, bring the kids.
This is for those ready for a day of glorious exercise! The dunes go up and down and on and on for what seems like forever and then seems like a little more forever until you reach Lake Michigan and can swim off all of your sweat and feel cleansed and refreshed and ready to trek back. Be hydrated before the hike, bring lots of water, and know you'll have earned that beer at the end of the day after this feat!