Explore Northern Michigan
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, small-town charm, family fun, or a peaceful day on the water, Norther Michigan offers something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite places and experiences, all within a short drive from your property
Outdoor Adventures
From crystal-clear lakes and winding rivers to scenic trails and small-town charm, discover the best of Northern Michigan during your stay with Rent North
Our Favorites
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Jordan River to Websters Bridge - BYOK or Rent!
- ORV & ATV Trails
- Day out Boating (great for fishing too!)
- Lake Bellaire *boat launch location
- Clam Lake *boat launch location
- Torch Lake *boat launch location
- Otsego Lake *boat launch location
Dining, Date Night, and Local Favorites!
Hidden Gems of the North! Enjoy local restaurants, one-of-a-kind breweries, excellent coffee shops and shopping around the North
Did someone say Breakfast?
Only a few minutes away...
- Rustic Roast, Elmira (best coffees around!)
- Iron Skillet, Mancelona
- The Hens Den, Mancelona
- Tipsy Turtle, Mancelona
- Rooted, Mancelona (COFFEES/TEA ONLY)
- Rise and Dine, Gaylord
- Iron Pig, Gaylord (old 27 locations)
- Sunny Side, Boyne
- Cafe Sante, Boyne
- Toonies, Bellaire
Savor Northern Michigan
Only a few minutes away...
- Tipsy Turtle, Mancelona
- Luckys, Gaylord
- Iron Pig, Gaylord (Old 27 Location)
- Porter Haus, Gaylord
- Bennethums, Gaylord *(Special Occasion recommendation)
- Shorts Brewery, Bellaire *(Home of Shorts Brewery)
- Corner Bistro, Bellaire *(Special Occasion recommendation)
- The Nest, Bellaire
Dinner worth the drive…
- Torch Lake Cafe, Central lake *(Special Occasion recommendation)
- Bear Lake Inn, Kalkaska
- Mimi & Pipi's, Grayling *(Special Occasion recommendation)
- The Whi-ski Inn, Boyne Falls
- Cafe Sante, Boyne City *(Special Occasion recommendation)
- Red Ginger, Traverse City *(Special Occasion recommendation)
- North Peak Brewery, Traverse City
- The Filling Station, Traverse City
- Pepenero, Traverse City *(Special Occasion recommendation)
- Reflect Bistro, Traverse City
- Barrios, Traverse City
Fall in Love with Autumn
Each autumn, Northern Michigan transforms into a breathtaking display of vibrant reds, brilliant oranges, and golden yellows. Whether you’re taking a scenic drive, hiking a forest trail, or enjoying a peaceful afternoon by the lake, fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit.
Where do you capture these wonderful colors? Try these suggestions...
Located near Elmira, this overlook offers one of the most iconic views in Northern Michigan. The Jordan River Valley stretches below, showcasing miles of colorful forest and rolling hills.
A hidden gem just outside Elmira, Landslide Overlook provides stunning views of the Jordan Valley. It’s especially beautiful during peak color season and is often less crowded than other scenic viewpoints.
Take a leisurely chairlift ride to the summit and enjoy panoramic views of rolling hills painted in vibrant fall colors. It’s one of the easiest and most relaxing ways to experience Northern Michigan’s autumn beauty.
Often ranked among America’s most scenic drives, the Tunnel of Trees winds along the Lake Michigan shoreline between Harbor Springs and Cross Village. The canopy of colorful hardwoods creates an unforgettable fall experience.
Combine the Tunnel of Trees with a stop in Cross Village for breathtaking Lake Michigan views and a memorable Northern Michigan fall road trip.
A must-see destination in the fall. Ride the chairlift or stroll across Michigan’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge while taking in sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The SkyBridge offers one of the most unique fall color experiences in the Midwest.
Just outside Boyne City, climb the observation platform for spectacular views overlooking Lake Charlevoix and the surrounding fall colors.
Experience Winter...the Northern Michigan Way
Boyne Mountain SkyBridge
Skiing & Snowboarding? Checkout these local favorites...
- Snowmobile the many trails! Take a look at the trail map *(ride straight from the properties)
- Visit Boyne Mountain for Skiing, Snowboarding, Tubing, Indoor Water Park, SkyBridge, Hill Top IceBar. Boyne Falls
- Snowmobile Rental & Tours, Gaylord
- Shanty Creek Resorts for Skiing, Snowboarding, Tubing, and Cross Country Skiing with lots of fun
- Snowshoe Aspen Park, Gaylord
