If you’re anything like me and incessantly scour the internet for restaurants, lookouts, activities, and pretty much anything to do in the location you’re planning a trip to—you’ve made it to the right place. Growing up in Northern Michigan and living there full-time for 18 years of my life, I’d like to think I’ve reached expert-level tour guide status. Now, I know everyone’s idea of fun looks different, so take from this what you will, but this is my perfect weekend itinerary for a trip to Northern Michigan.
First, you’ll want to ensure you have a car, because, as you’ll learn, everything is quite spread out in Leelanau County, and there is essentially no public transportation available. If you think you’ll be able to call an Uber, think again.
As for where to stay, I would suggest The Homestead Resort in Glen Arbor. Located right on Lake Michigan with breathtaking views and less than 2 miles from downtown Glen Arbor, this is definitely your best option.
Now, let’s get into what you’re really here for, the itinerary. In an ideal world, you would be arriving on a Thursday night so you have the whole day to enjoy on Friday. So based on that presupposition, here’s what your perfect weekend would look like.
Friday
It’s your first morning here, you’ve (hopefully) had a great night’s rest and are ready to take on your first day.
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The Mill: Perched along the Crystal River you’ll find the most charming, quaint cafe called The Mill. I would order their iced vanilla bean latte with an almond croissant to accompany it, but that’s just me. Their coffee, tea, and pastry selection is truly unmatched and you can’t beat the ambiance, both inside and out.
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Pyramid Point: Now that you’ve had a morning treat, you’ll be ready for some movement. You’re going to drive about 5 minutes down the road and hike Pyramid Point. The hike takes about 10-15 minutes and will lead you to one of the best views of Lake Michigan. If you’re feeling up for it too, you can take a right at the top and find bowls of rolling sand dunes. -
Cherry Republic: After you finish the hike, you’ll head back into Glen Arbor and have lunch at Cherry Republic in their lively beer garden. And don’t forget to go inside the shop for free samples - personally, my favorite part.
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Downtown Glen Arbor: There’s nothing better than post-lunch shopping. After you’ve finished eating, walk around town and stop into a few shops. Some of my favorites are Cottonseed Apparel, Cottage Book Shop, and M22.
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Funistrada: If you want to feel like you’ve teleported to a cozy home in the Tuscan countryside, this is the place for you. With authentic Italian dishes, an intimate vibe, and incredible food, this is one of the best restaurants in all of Leelanau County. My favorite dishes are the Chicken Saltimbocca and classic Spaghetti and Meatballs.
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Café Manitou: Located right on the beach at The Homestead Resort, this is the perfect place for a night cap and if you’re feeling up for it, a night swim in the pool or lake. There’s nothing better than a quick dip before bed.
Saturday
Since you’re probably still recovering the copious amounts of pasta, bread, and wine you drank at dinner last night, we’re going to start the day off easy.
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Good Harbor Grill: First stop is, of course, breakfast. Grab a seat on the patio outside, enjoy a cup of coffee, order the Good Harbor Special, a cinnamon roll, and your morning is already off to an amazing start.
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Empire Beach: Next, you’re going to drive about 15 minutes to the town of Empire. Empire Beach is one of my favorite beaches in Northern Michigan and offers some of the best views of the coastline and one of the best beaches for rock hunting. If you’re lucky, you’ll find some Petoskey Stones or Leland Blues. -
Shipwreck: You said you were craving a sandwich post-beach? How convenient! From the incredibly fresh ingredients, savory herb mayo, and homemade salty pretzel bread, this is more than just any plain sandwich.
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Grocer’s Daughter: This stop is a sweet tooth’s dream. A vibrant little green chocolate shop in the heart of Empire that has some of the most divine chocolate you will ever eat. Make sure you get the homemade fudgesicle, and pick out some chocolate to go for good measure.
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Pierce Stocking Overlook #9: If there’s only one thing you take from this list, let it be this one. This is one of the most beautiful locations I’ve ever been to in the world. Yes, I mean world. The view of Lake Michigan is unmatched and I could spend hours running around the dunes. It truly feels like an adult playground and is the perfect sunset destination.
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Art’s Tavern: Now that your day is winding down, it’s only right to go grab a table at Art’s, order a beer, burger, and their famous tater tots. If you were to look up dive bar in the dictionary, it should show a picture of Art’s. And I mean this in the best way possible.
Sunday
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Fishtown: This is one of the most unique and cool towns to visit. With the Leland River right in the epicenter and Lake Michigan right at the edge, there’s no shortage of serene water views. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can stop at Rick’s Cafe along the river and order a Chubby Mary - a Bloody Mary with a fish head in it. Yes, a real fish head.
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Van’s Beach: Now Van’s Beach might be my actual all-time favorite beach in Northern Michigan. The lake is always the most gorgeous shade of turquoise blue and the water when you go for a swim here just feels different.
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Farm Club: Farm-to-table meets trendy brewery meets farmer’s market. This is one of those places I could hang out all day long. Sitting outside with a crisp glass of sparkling wine, a curated charcuterie board with some of the most interesting spreads, with a good book in hand, I’ll spend hours there without even realizing. This is a perfect stop on the way out to close out the eventful weekend.
Regardless of which of my recommendations you take, Leelanau County is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and the sights alone will make your trip worthwhile. I hope you enjoy my hometown as much as I do every time I come back.
