Last Updated on April 9, 2022
Unlike other small towns in Northern Michigan, Charlevoix has always felt like the “homiest” to me (okay, maybe that’s because I lived there for a summer). Charlevoix, Michigan is a charming town with boutique shops, yummy restaurants, multiple beaches, a marina, a lighthouse, and so much more. Houses ranging from quaint and cozy to stunning and massive surround the town. Everything is very walkable, which I love! Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a seasoned local, Charlevoix has something for everyone.
1. Take a Mushroom House Tour
No, I’m not sending you off to wander around Charlevoix looking for little houses made of mushrooms with hobbits living in them (though wouldn’t that draw the tourists!). The mushroom houses of Charlevoix were designed by a self-taught architect named, Earl Young. His houses are uniquely designed to blend into its surroundings, and easily identified by the wavy, mushroom-like roofs on his homes. Here is a guide to the mushroom houses in Charlevoix. Want a better close-up? You can even rent some of Young’s mushroom houses to stay in!
2. Visit Castle Farms
This enchanted attraction is a must-see for anyone stopping through Charlevoix, Michigan. Spend a few hours wandering this beautiful restored castle and gardens. Stay for lunch and a wine tasting at the 1918 Cellars. Head over to my Castle Farms post for more information on what to expect and how to prepare for your visit.
3. Gawk at the pretty houses
Wander through the neighborhoods, both on the Lake Charlevoix/Round Lakeside and Lake Michigan side of Bridge Street. Some, you will stand back and picture yourself cozied up by the fireplace on a cold winter day watching the snow drift down. Others, you will picture yourself parking your boat in your boat garage (attached to your house, of course), after a beautiful summer day of cruising around the lake.
4. Charlevoix Shopping
There are tons of cute little shops along Bridge Street with plenty of Michigan souvenirs, boutique clothing, gourmet treats, and more! The stretch of downtown is not long, but it’s best to give yourself a few hours to walk from one side to the other, weaving in and out of each shop. Note that some shops may not be open if you are visiting during off-season (winter months).
5. Visit Charlevoix’s Drawbridge
Watch boats pass through
Especially fun for kids to see, stop by Charlevoix’s US 31 – Island Lake Outlet Bridge to watch the bridge open up for boats to pass through. In peak-season, the bridge opens regularly (usually on the hour and half hour).
See the Bridge Lights
In addition to the opening of the bridge, the bridge lights up for special occasions! You can find a lighting schedule for the bridge here. A new program just launched to help with the upkeep and repairs for the bridge called, “You Pick”. The program allows visitors and locals to pay a donation of $300 to choose what color the bridge will be on a certain day – perfect for couples getting married at Castle Farms, anniversaries, birthdays, and more!
6. Watch the Sunset at the Pier
Head down to the Charlevoix South Pier Light Station or Michigan Beach Park (right next to the pier) to watch a breathtaking Michigan sunset. Try to get there at least a half-hour before the sun actually sets so you don’t miss out on any spectacular colors in the sky (the best sunsets have a good bit of cloud coverage).
7. Grab some fresh seafood at John Cross Fisheries
I, personally, am not a big seafood fan, so I’ve never actually been to John Cross Fisheries myself. But, I’ve heard many friends and locals rave about the delicious fresh fish here. It’s right down on Belvedere Avenue tucked away amongst the beautiful lake-front mansions.
8. Spend the day at the beach
Michigan Beach Park
Charlevoix is surrounded by lakes, which only means one thing – beaches! Charlevoix offers a variety of beaches. Head down to Michigan Beach Park, right near the Charlevoix South Pier Light Station. This offers spectacular views, a sandy beach, and a small playground for kids to play on.
Ferry Beach Park
On the opposite side of town, facing Lake Charlevoix is Ferry Beach Park and Depot Beach Park. Ferry Beach Park is a grassier area with a little bit of sandy beach. This is more ideal for families wanting to picnic and let the kids play – there are picnic tables and a playground.
Depot Beach Park
Further north on the other side of the drawbridge is Depot Beach Park. This is typically a quieter beach situated right near the old train station. There is a large pavilion, perfect for gatherings, a grassy area, as well as a bit of sandy beach and playground for kids to play.
9. Hunt for Petoskey Stones
A perfect addition to your beach day – fun for both kids and adults! Walk along the shore to hunt for Michigan’s state stone, the Petoskey Stone. Despite the name, Petoskey stones are quite easy to find in Charlevoix. The best spots are along quieter shorelines, such as further southwest of Michigan Beach Park, heading towards Fisherman’s Island State Park. They are easiest to spot when they are wet – so either search along the shore or stroll along the beach after it has rained.
10. Have a Picnic at the Marina
If you make your way down Bridge Street, the beautiful, picturesque marina is bound to catch your eye. Make a point of grabbing lunch to-go from one of the yummy restaurants in town and head down to the marina with a blanket for a picnic lunch in the grass. You’ll find the people-watching, sailboats/yachts in the harbor, and drop-dead gorgeous homes along Round Lake will keep your attention throughout your picnic (perfect for any solo diners out there!). If you happen to be visiting during the summer, be sure to check the event schedule to maybe catch a local concert in the marina’s pavilion.
*Military Spouse Insider’s Tip:
Be sure to ask local shops if they offer military discounts. Many do not, but will happily provide a friends & family discount to thank you and your spouse for your service!
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