20 Best and Fun Things To Do In Charlevoix, MI

Are you a resident or tourist looking for fun activities in Charlevoix, Michigan?  Look no further! You’re at the right place.  In this guide, we’ll unveil an extensive list of 20 best and fun things to do in Charlevoix, MI, to make the most of your time in this picturesque Charlevoix county.

Located in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula, on the shores of Lake Michigan, Charlevoix is named after Fr. Pierre François Xavier de Charlevoix.  It’s known for its stunning scenery, charming harbor, vibrant downtown area, and abundant outdoor activities.

The possibilities are endless, from scenic hikes and golf courses to captivating museums and local eateries. Whether planning a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Charlevoix offers a diverse range of activities to suit every traveler’s preferences.

Explore the vibrant arts scene at the Charlevoix Farmers Market, where you can buy local produce,  meats, honey, homemade jams, jellies, baked goods, and other artisan products. Enjoy some fun time with nature at Beaver Island. Visit Charlevoix South Pier Light Station, Mushroom House, and many other attractions, making Charlevoix a beautiful location for vacation opportunities all year round.

20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Charlevoix, MI 2024

1.  Charlevoix South Pier Light Station

The Charlevoix South Pier Light Station is one of the must-see attractions in Charlevoix, Michigan. Built in 1884, it was originally on the north pier. But in 1914, they moved it to the south pier and built a taller, metal tower there.

The current structure is a steel tower standing 13 meters (43 feet) tall.  The City of Charlevoix owns the Charlevoix South Light Station; it’s maintained and preserved by the Charlevoix Historical Society.

The lighthouse is noted for providing eye-catching scenes for taking pictures as well as a scenic view of Lake Michigan.

Address: 2 Grant Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

2.  Castle Farms

One of the romantic things to do in Charlevoix, MI, with your partner is to explore Castle Farms.

The farm has a unique combination of historical charm, beautiful gardens, and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for weddings, events, and sightseeing.

Established in 1918 by Albert Loeb, its architectural style is inspired by French Normandy castles, featuring soaring towers, stone archways, and beautiful courtyards.

Located in the beautiful resort community of Charlevoix, Castle Farms hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as weddings, corporate functions, galas, and festivals. Castle Farms is a worthwhile destination in Charlevoix.

Address: 1054 US-31 N, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

3. Charlevoix Farmers Market

Located along Bridge Street with a view of Round Lake, the Charlevoix Farmers Market is one of the most unique things to do in Charlevoix, MI, with your family.

The Charlevoix farmers market is held every Thursday from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, starting in mid-May and running through mid-October. During the Venetian Festival, the market temporarily moves to Bridge Park for increased visibility.

What’s more, the Charlevoix Farmers Market is a great place for vendors to sell local produce, meats, honey, homemade jams, jellies, baked goods, and other artisan products while supporting the community.

As part of your itineraries, visit the Charlevoix Farmers Market and connect to the vibrant market community.

Address: 307 Bridge Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

4. Beaver Island

Located approximately 32 miles north-northwest of the resort city of Charlevoix, Beaver Island is one of the best outdoor activities to do in Charlevoix, MI. Its natural beauty and rich history, attract thousands of visitors a year.

Beaver Island is the largest island in Lake Michigan, measuring 13 miles long and 6 miles wide. The island was originally inhabited by Odawa and Ojibwe people for centuries before European settlers arrived. Today, the island is a haven for artists, writers, and nature lovers, with a strong sense of community spirit.

What’s more, the island offers scenic trails that wind through forests, dunes, and wetlands, which are perfect for hiking. You can also paddleboard in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan.

Address: 103 Bridge Park Drive, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

5. Mushroom House

Exploring the mushroom house is one of the best things to do in Charlevoix, MI, with your family. Its exciting structure provides a fun-filled, home-away-from-home.

Established in 1918 by Earl Young, who put his mastering skills of both artistry and craftsmanship to use to produce extraordinary site-worthy structures all over Charlevoix, some of these amazing structures include the Mushroom House, The Thatched House, and The Half House.

What’s more, Charlevoix Mushroom House Tours offers walking tours led by passionate guides who can share interesting details about the houses and Earl Young’s architectural vision.

Address: 106 Park Avenue, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

6. Little Traverse Wheelway

Starting from Charlevoix Township Hall (half a mile from US-31 on Waller Road) and ending near Hoyt and Lake Streets on the east side of Harbor Springs, exploring the Little Traverse Wheelway is one of the best fun things to do in Charlevoix, MI, with your friends.

Established in 1880, the Little Traverse Wheelway is a 26.65-mile paved pathway stretching from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs in Charlevoix and Emmet Counties, Michigan.

It’s a popular destination for cyclists, inline skaters, walkers, and joggers, offering stunning views of Little Traverse Bay throughout the journey.

You’ll undoubtedly appreciate adding this brief yet rewarding excursion to your Charlevoix itinerary.

Address: Charlevoix Township Hall, 0.5 miles from US-31 on Waller Road, Charlevoix, MI, United States.

7. Friske’s Farm Market

The Friske’s Farm Market is a popular destination known for its family-friendly atmosphere, delicious food, and variety of locally sourced products.

This market sells fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, and locally crafted items. The market also has a restaurant serving homemade pizzas, donuts, pies, and other treats.

What’s more, the market also features a 10,000-square-foot playground perfect for kids to climb, slide, and burn off energy, as well as a giant inflatable jumping pillow that provides endless bouncing fun for children.

Friske’s Farm Market is a great place to visit for a fun-filled day with the family. You can stock up on fresh groceries, enjoy a delicious meal, let the kids loose in the play area, and experience the charm of a local farm.

Address: 10743 US-31, Ellsworth, MI 49729, United States.

8. North Seas Gallery and Antiques

One of the fun things to do in Charlevoix, MI, for art enthusiasts is to admire the beautiful artwork at North Seas Gallery and Antiques.

Established in 1989, North Seas Gallery and Antiques specializes in 19th and early 20th-century Dutch paintings, Soviet-era landscape paintings, and works by local artists.

Visitors will find a sampling of original antique sculptures, furniture, art glass, and pottery. The gallery is open seasonally from April to December, and this site is maintained with new items added year-round.

Address: 501 Bridge Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

Are you exploring other attractions in Michigan? Why not check out some fun things to do in Ludington, MI, and fun things to do in South Haven, MI ?

9. Belvedere Club

One of the fun things to do in Charlevoix, MI, at night is to explore Belvedere Club. The Belvedere Club is a private summer home association steeped in history and boasting a unique character.

Established in 1878 by Baptists from Kalamazoo, originally it was named Charlevoix Summer Resort Association. Transformed into a more secular and social summer community in 1923, adopting the name Belvedere Club

The club features a 50-acre park-like setting with 86 summer cottages nestled amidst the natural beauty. Constructed before 1900, the Belvedere Club has a distinctive architectural style with ornate bargeboard cupolas and textured wall surfaces.

As part of the itineraries at Charlevoix, visit the Belvedere Club in Charlevoix; it provides a glimpse into a bygone era of summer retreats.

Address: 5731 Marion Center Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

10. Jordan River

One of the best outdoor activities in Charlevoix for nature lovers is exploring the Jorden River. The Jordan River holds historical significance as the first river designated under the State of Michigan’s Natural Rivers Act in 1972.

The river winds through a scenic landscape with lush forests, rolling hills, and diverse wildlife; it also allows for fishing.

Paddling trips offer a unique perspective of the natural surroundings, allowing you to spot birds, turtles, and other animals in their habitat. The calm waters are ideal for canoeing and kayaking, making it a relaxing activity for all skill levels.

What’s more, the Jordan River offers hiking trails along the riverbank that offer opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking, and simply enjoying the fresh air and scenery.

Address: Jordan River, Michigan, United States.

11.  Lake Charlevoix

Exploring Lake Charlevoix is one of the best things to do in Charlevoix, MI. With a surface area of over 17,200 acres and a shoreline of 56 miles, Lake Charlevoix is one of the largest inland lakes in Michigan.

Lake Charlevoix is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. The lake is also home to several resorts and cottages. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, pike, bass, perch, and muskie.

The lake’s calm waters make it a great place for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

What’s more, the lake has several public beaches, including Depot Beach in Charlevoix and Lake Charlevoix Beach Park in East Jordan.

Address: Jordan River, Michigan, United States. 

12. Bier Art Gallery and Pottery Studio

One of the best and most fun things to do in Charlevoix, MI, for art enthusiasts is to explore Bier Art Gallery and Pottery Studio. The gallery showcases a lively exhibition of artwork from over sixty regional and national artists, with many being exclusive to the gallery.

The gallery resides in a charming, red, and white schoolhouse, providing the ideal setting for the art as well as a scenic view of Lake Michigan and the countryside.

What’s more, Over forty-five regional and national artists contribute to the gallery, many exclusively, making the selections diverse and unique, thus, it is a must-see attraction for art lovers.

Address: 3500 US-31, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

13. Hotel Walloon

Located on the shores of Walloon Lake in Michigan, Hotel Walloon is one of the best places to be near Charlevoix, Michigan. Hotel Walloon is known for its luxurious accommodations, vintage charm, and stunning natural surroundings.

Established in 2015, the hotel offers exciting features such as a spacious guest room with elegant design and modern amenities, as well as on-site dining with a vintage vibe, a private beach, and dock slips.

Visit Charlevoix, MI, and enjoy a luxurious and relaxing getaway at Hotel Walloon.

Address: 3100 Walloon Lake Drive, Petoskey, MI 49770, United States.

14. Ironton Ferry

One of the things to do near Charlevoix is to explore the Ironton Ferry with your family and friends.

The Ironton Ferry operates across the South Arm of Lake Charlevoix, connecting Ironton (south of Charlevoix) to Boyne City on the opposite side.

Generally, it is open from mid-April through mid-November. Operating hours are 6:30 am to 10:30 pm.  It provides a shortcut for travelers coming from the Charlevoix area who want to reach Boyne City without driving the entire perimeter of the lake.

 Many visitors incorporate a ride on the ferry into their Charlevoix area itinerary.

Address: Irons Road, Boyne City, MI 49712, United States.

15. Fisherman’s Island State Park

Located along the coast of Lake Michigan, just 4 miles from Charlevoix, exploring Fisherman’s Island State Park is one of the fun outdoor activities to do near Charlevoix, MI. 

The park spans about 2,678 acres and consists of rolling dunes covered with maple, birch, and aspen, broken up by bogs of cedar and black spruce, a rustic campground, a 2.5-mile hiking trail, and a day-use area.

The park is popular with hunters and rockhounds in the fall season. Fisherman’s Island State Park is also a great place for camping, swimming, and fishing. 

Address: 16480 Bells Bay Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

16. Charlevoix Football Field

One of the most fun things to do in Charlevoix, MI, for sports enthusiasts is to explore the Charlevoix football field.

Managed by the Charlevoix Public Schools district, the Charlevoix football field is mostly used for sporting activities during school hours, however, public sporting activities are scheduled for non-school hours.

What’s more, the football field offers a regulation-sized football field suitable for high school games and potentially other athletic events. Other features include, running tracks, bleachers, field lighting, restrooms, and concessions stands.

Charlevoix Footfield is one of the best places to burn off some calories as a sports lover.

Address: Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

17. North Point Nature Preserve

Established in 1988, it is located directly north of Charlevoix town, adjacent to Mt. McSauba recreation area. Exploring the North Point Nature Preserve is one of the most fun outdoor activities to do in Charlevoix, MI, with your friends.

With a relatively small area encompassing only 27 acres, North Point Nature Preserve, features a network of trails that meander through various habitats and three threatened plant species: Pitcher’s Thistle, Lake Huron Tansy, and Pumpell’s Bromegrass which are protected.

North Point Nature Preserves provides a peaceful escape from the busier area of Charlevoix, while you observe various plant life and potentially spot some wildlife like deer, porcupines, or shorebirds.

Address: McSauba Road, 49720, United States.

Are you exploring other attractions in Michigan? Why not check out some fun things to do in Munising, MI, and fun things to do in Holland, MI?

18. Hungry Ducks Farm

Exploring Hungry Ducks Farm is one of the most fun things to do in Charlevoix, MI, with your family. Stop by and enjoy a picnic in the pavilion, or spend the day wandering through the museum.

Hungry Duck Farm offers one wristband that offers unlimited rides, a pass to interact with petting farm animals, an exciting view of historical collections of antique toys and doll houses, and a lot more.

Visit Hungry Duck Farm today and let your kids loose while you breathe some fresh air and let them run around petting farm animals.

Address: 4580 M-66, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

19. Charlevoix Dog Park

Located on Carpenter Street, tucked behind the ball fields, this dog park is a fun place to visit with your four-legged friend. The park provides a safe and fenced environment for you to run and play off-leash.

The Charlevoix Dog Park is designed with a separator for dogs of different sizes, such as big dogs, and small dogs, and a special section for dogs that need special care or are old. 

Charlevoix Dog Park is a fantastic spot for your dog to burn off energy, socialize with other dogs, and have a fun-filled outing.

Address: 406 W Carpenter Street, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

20. East Park

One of the most fun things in Charlevoix, MI, is to visit East Park. Located in the heart of downtown Charlevoix, this beautiful park offers stunning views of Round Lake and the Charlevoix Harbor, creating a picturesque backdrop for your visit.

Charlevoix East Park features a public marina and boating facilities, an interactive water fountain, a living trough habitat and stream, a state-of-the-art Outdoor Pavilion, Benches and picnic areas, a walking path, and restrooms.

East Park is an exciting place to enjoy some picturesque views and create a memorable moment with your family.

Address: 307 Bridge St, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States.

Plan Your Trip To Charlevoix, MI

Charlevoix, MI, beckons as a captivating destination brimming with adventure and natural wonders. With the perfect blend of culture and nature, a visit to Charlevoix will leave a lasting impression.

Let this guide be your comprehensive starting point as you embark on your journey to discover and experience the wonders of this remarkable town. Wishing you safe travels and unforgettable memories!