10 Fun Things to Do in Petoskey, MI

Built on hills overlooking Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey, is an amazing Michigan vacation destination. With arts, culture, and outdoors aplenty, Petoskey features virtually endless things to do. Plus, this gem is home to the best Lake Michigan views in the Mitten State.

During your next trip up north, take your stay at Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor or Petoskey KOA. Each resort features RV campsites and vacation rentals that offer comfort for the whole family. You can use either of these destinations as a homebase to explore the Michigan attractions around Petoskey!

Shopping and Arts

Petoskey is light on chains and heavy on small businesses. Here, residents take pride in their town's local shops, art galleries, and performance venues. Check out the following shopping and arts attractions during your "up north" stay.

Downtown Gaslight District

The center of Petoskey is known as the Downtown Gaslight District. Quaint and buzzing, this historic strip features coffee shops, restaurants, art galleries, and specialty boutiques.

Crooked Tree Arts Center

Cultural attractions always have a home in Petoskey at the Crooked Tree Arts Center. This locale hosts theatrical productions, live music, art classes, and much more. There are also youth programs during the summer, so kids can get involved in creative pursuits.

Great Lakes Center for the Arts

The Great Lakes Center for the Arts may be in Bay Harbor, but it's very much a part of Petoskey. This elegant cultural hub features lecture series, music from around the world, and numerous youth educational programs in music and performing arts.

Outdoor Adventures

Michigan is well-known for its outdoor attractions. Full of places to get out and about, the Mitten has everything from the vast Great Lakes to hardwood forests and winding rivers. Here are a few of our favorite outdoor adventures near Petoskey.

Petoskey State Park

With a mile-long beach on Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey State Park is undeniably beautiful. But there's more to see than beaches. Petoskey State Park boasts sand dunes with scenic views and tranquil, forested hiking trails. Here are some of the most popular paths to explore:

• Old Baldy Trail (0.5-mile loop trail)
• Portage Trail (1-mile out-and-back trail)
• North Western State Trail (32-mile multi-use trail to Mackinaw City)

Bear River Valley Recreation Area

Whitewater rapids in Petoskey, Michigan? You'll find them at Bear River Valley Recreation Area! A 0.25-mile whitewater area in the river is popular for whitewater kayaking. Additionally, there are trails, concrete paths, and boardwalks that line the river.

Bayfront Park

Petoskey's crown jewel is Bayfront Park. Once an industrial port, this park overlooks Little Traverse Bay and features grassy green spaces, sports fields, a playground, and a marina. There is also easy walking access to downtown under US-31 via a pedestrian tunnel.

Pennsylvania Park

Tucked into downtown Petoskey, Pennsylvania Park is a popular spot for locals. A former railroad runs through this leafy preserve that features walking trails, picnic areas, and a gazebo. It's a great spot to sip a coffee in autumn!

Little Traverse Wheelway

The Little Traverse Wheelway is a popular, paved multi-use path that connects the towns of Charlevoix, Bay Harbor, Petoskey, and Harbor Springs. Walk, bike, or rollerblade a stretch (or the whole 26-mile path) to see historic homes and Lake Michigan views. Pro tip: the Little Traverse Wheelway is easily accessible from both Petoskey RV Resort and Petoskey KOA.

Wineries and Breweries

How can a little city have so much to do? Well, Petoskey isn't your standard small town. With a creative core and seasonal tourism, Petoskey is home to innovative folks making great products. Enjoy their creations at local wineries and breweries in Petoskey, Michigan.

Petoskey Wineries

Northwest Michigan features a microclimate that is conducive to growing grapes. Around Petoskey, Traverse City, and Harbor Springs, you'll find many vineyards and wineries. Stop by and visit for a tasting and a tour of the fields.

Some of our favorite wineries near Petoskey are:

• Petoskey Farms Vineyard & Winery
• Walloon Lake Winery
• Maple Moon Sugarbush & Winery

Petoskey Breweries

Wine isn't the only popular libation in Northern Michigan. Craft beer has become a signature staple item for the region. Nearly every town in Northern Michigan has a taproom, but we're partial to these three craft breweries in Petoskey:

• Petoskey Brewing
• Beards Brewery
• Burnt Marshmallow Brewing

RV Camping in Petoskey, Michigan

We've covered the things to do in Petoskey, but what about the places to stay? You'll find RV camping and vacation rentals at both Sun Outdoors Petoskey Bay Harbor and Petoskey KOA. Located along US-31, these outdoor destinations offer easy access to the best attractions in Petoskey, Michigan.

If you haven't started planning your vacation in Petoskey, it's time to hop to it! This is a destination you absolutely must visit. Bring a friend too and share this post so they can get excited about all the things to do in Petoskey.

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