Summer activities in Northern Michigan including Torch Lake beach, scenic lake views, hiking trails, and family-friendly lakeside fun near Mackinac Island

What Is There to Do in Northern Michigan in the Summer? Your Ultimate Guide to Warm-Weather Adventures

Discover the Best Things to Do in Northern Michigan This Summer

Northern Michigan is one of America’s most underrated summer destinations. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the historic charm of Mackinac Island, this region offers outdoor adventure, small-town culture, culinary treasures, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or planning a solo escape, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy from May through October.

The Inn at Stonecliffe on Mackinac Island, open seasonally from May to October, serves as a tranquil and luxurious home base for your summer getaway. While we’re closed in the winter, this guide will help you plan the perfect summer vacation across Northern Michigan and the Straits Region.

Top Outdoor Activities in Northern Michigan in Summer

Hike Scenic Trails Surrounded by Forests and Water Views

  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Towering dunes, sweeping vistas of Lake Michigan, and wooded trails.

  • Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Colorful cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking routes along Lake Superior.

  • North Country Trail: A segment runs through Northern Michigan with dense forest cover and quiet solitude.

Bike Through Coastal Towns and Inland Trails

  • Little Traverse Wheelway: Connects Charlevoix, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs with gorgeous lake views.

  • Mackinac Island Loop (8.2 miles): A car-free route perfect for families and couples.

  • Leelanau Trail: Runs between Traverse City and Suttons Bay through vineyards and farmland.

Kayak and Paddleboard Clear, Calm Waters

  • Torch Lake: Famous for its Caribbean-blue water and sandbar parties.

  • Lake Charlevoix: Calm bays ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.

  • Crystal River in Glen Arbor: A scenic, family-friendly kayak route.

Best Beaches in Northern Michigan for Summer Swimming and Relaxation

Family-Friendly Beaches

  • Clinch Park Beach (Traverse City): Sandy beach with playground and restrooms.

  • Stearns Park Beach (Ludington): Concessions, breakwall, and Lake Michigan access.

Hidden Gems

  • Esrey Park (Upper Peninsula): Rugged, rocky beach with scenic overlooks.

  • Good Hart Beach (Tunnel of Trees region): Remote and romantic.

Romantic Sunset Spots

  • Empire Beach: Iconic pier and red sunsets over Lake Michigan.

  • Petoskey State Park: Search for Petoskey stones as the sun sets.

Small Towns and Summer Festivals to Explore

Traverse City

  • National Cherry Festival (July)

  • Downtown Traverse City Summer Art Fairs

  • Wine tasting along the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas

Petoskey

  • Petoskey Rocks! Fridays (live music and downtown strolls)

  • Petoskey Stone Festival

  • Lavender Hill Farm visits nearby

Charlevoix

  • Charlevoix Venetian Festival

  • Mushroom House Tours

  • Bridge Street artisan markets

Mackinac Island (May to October only)

  • Lilac Festival (June)

  • Fudge Festival (August)

  • Historic Fort Mackinac tours

  • Bike rentals, horse-drawn carriage rides, and butterfly conservatory visits

Romantic Things to Do for Couples in Northern Michigan

Take a Sunset Cruise on Lake Michigan

  • Departures from Petoskey, Charlevoix, or Mackinac Island

  • Wine and cheese cruises or private charters

Book a Vineyard Tour and Tasting

  • Chateau Chantal

  • Mari Vineyards

  • 45 North Vineyard & Winery

Enjoy a Candlelit Dinner with a View

  • The Woods on Mackinac Island

  • Stafford’s Pier in Harbor Springs

  • Boathouse Restaurant in Traverse City

Stay at a Secluded Resort Like The Inn at Stonecliffe

  • Historic mansion elegance and waterfront sunsets

  • Adults-only pool and on-site dining

  • Private lawn with panoramic Straits views

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Northern Michigan in Summer

Beach Days and Water Fun

  • Build sandcastles at Otsego Lake State Park

  • Jump off the docks at Walloon Lake

  • Splash pad and picnic spots at Bayfront Park in Petoskey

Interactive Attractions

  • Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum (Whitefish Point)

  • The Dennos Museum Center (Traverse City)

  • Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park (Mackinaw City)

Animal and Nature Experiences

  • Garlyn Zoo (Upper Peninsula)

  • Wilderness State Park wildlife viewing

  • Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark (Boyne Falls) on rainy days

Scenic Drives and Road Trips to Take This Summer

Tunnel of Trees (M-119)

  • Between Harbor Springs and Cross Village

  • One of the most famous scenic drives in the Midwest

Lake Michigan Circle Tour (Northern Segment)

  • Connects key towns: Ludington, Traverse City, Petoskey, Mackinac City

  • Beach towns, lighthouses, and scenic bluffs

Route from Traverse City to Mackinac Island (with Ferry)

  • Stop in Charlevoix, Petoskey, and the Upper Peninsula

  • End at The Inn at Stonecliffe for sunset drinks on the Straits Lawn

Comparison Table: Best Summer Activities by Interest

Activity Type Best For Families Best for Couples Budget-Friendly Must-Do Towns
Beaches Clinch Park, Otsego Lake Empire Beach Good Hart Beach Traverse City, Petoskey
Hiking Sleeping Bear, Mill Creek North Country Trail Free Empire, Mackinaw City
Festivals Cherry Festival Venetian Festival Petoskey Rocks! Traverse City, Charlevoix
Wine/Brewery Tours N/A Yes Yes (some tastings) Leelanau, Old Mission
Historic Sites Fort Mackinac Lighthouse Tours Yes Mackinac Island, Whitefish Point

FAQs About Visiting Northern Michigan in the Summer

What are the best months to visit Northern Michigan?

May through October offers the best weather, with July and August being the warmest. Many attractions, including The Inn at Stonecliffe, are seasonal and close in winter.

Can you swim in the lakes in Northern Michigan?

Yes. Lakes like Torch Lake, Lake Charlevoix, Walloon Lake, and parts of Lake Michigan offer excellent summer swimming with clear, clean water.

Are there good places to stay near these activities?

Yes. The Inn at Stonecliffe is ideal for Mackinac Island-based adventures. Other options include resorts in Petoskey, cottages in Charlevoix, and hotels in Traverse City.

What should I pack for summer in Northern Michigan?

Layered clothing, swimwear, hiking shoes, bug spray, sunscreen, and a camera. It can be cool in the evenings.

How do I get to Mackinac Island in summer?

Drive to Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, then take a ferry (Shepler’s or Star Line). Cars are not allowed on the island.

Why The Inn at Stonecliffe is the Perfect Summer Home Base

Secluded Luxury on Mackinac Island

  • Historic mansion rooms and private cottages

  • Overlooks the Mackinac Bridge and Lake Huron

  • No crowds or downtown noise

On-Site Experiences

  • Lawn games and fire pits

  • Adults-only and family pools

  • Dining with panoramic views

Close to Top Attractions

  • Short bike ride to Fort Mackinac, Arch Rock, Butterfly House

  • Horse-drawn carriage pick-up available on site

  • Easy ferry access for day trips to Petoskey or Charlevoix

Plan Your Northern Michigan Summer Vacation Now

Whether you’re dreaming of beach days, hiking trails, small-town charm, or just a peaceful place to reconnect with nature, Northern Michigan in the summer delivers. The region is full of experiences you won’t find anywhere else — and The Inn at Stonecliffe is your elegant and quiet oasis above the crowds.

Visit us from May through October and experience Mackinac Island and Northern Michigan at their very best.

Start planning your summer adventure now.

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