Gaylord Travel Guide

Planning a visit to Gaylord, Michigan? This in-depth guide highlights the best things to do, places to stay and where to eat in Gaylord.


Introduction to Gaylord

Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan, Gaylord is a city that offers endless opportunities to explore and have fun. Surrounded by natural beauty, travelers can experience a world of outdoor adventures, scenic views, and wildlife. Whether you are a solo traveler, romantic couple, or family, Gaylord offers something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Gaylord

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Otsego County Historical Museum: A small but well-curated museum that tells the history of the area through exhibits and artifacts.
  • Call of the Wild Museum: A fascinating museum focused on Michigan’s wildlife, including a collection of over 60 full-size animal mounts.
  • The Gaylord Area Council for the Arts: A nonprofit organization that offers art exhibits, classes, and workshops.

Natural Attractions of Gaylord: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pigeon River: Flowing through Gaylord, the Pigeon River is popular for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
  • Gaylord City Elk Park: Home to a herd of elk, this park offers the opportunity to observe these majestic animals up close.
  • Treetops Resort: A ski and golf resort that also offers hiking, zip-lining, and other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gaylord

  • North Central State Trail: A 62-mile trail that winds through rural Michigan, offering fantastic scenery and the ability to hike, bike, and snowmobile.
  • Aspen Park Trail System: A network of trails ranging from easy to difficult that take you through wooded areas, rivers, and rock outcroppings.

Best Things to Do in Gaylord: Activities and Tours

  • Paddleboard on Otsego Lake: Rent a paddleboard and explore the beauty of Otsego Lake.
  • Traverse an Aerial Ropes Course: Challenge yourself on a high ropes course at Treetops Resort.
  • Tour a Brewery: Take a tour of Snowbelt Brewing Company and sample some of their award-winning beers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gaylord

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Gaylord and visit the Otsego County Historical Museum.
2 Hike the Aspen Park Trail System and enjoy a picnic lunch.
3 Rent a paddleboard and spend the day on Otsego Lake.
4 Visit the Call of the Wild Museum and take a tour of a local brewery.
5 Take a scenic drive through the Pigeon River Country State Forest and have dinner at Treetops Resort.
6 Traverse a high ropes course at Treetops Resort.
7 Depart from Gaylord.

Food and Drink Scene of Gaylord

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pasty: A traditional Michigan dish consisting of a baked pastry filled with meat, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Lake Trout: Fresh from Otsego Lake, this local favorite is often served with a side of wild rice.
  • Cherry Pie: Made with tart Michigan cherries, this dessert is a must-try for anyone visiting Northern Michigan.

Local Beverages

  • Michigan Craft Beer: With over 465 breweries in Michigan, it’s easy to find a delicious craft brew. Try a local favorite like Snowbelt Brewing Company or Beards Brewery.
  • Cherry Wine: Made from Northern Michigan’s tart cherries, cherry wine is a delicious and unique option for wine lovers.
  • Apple Cider: Made from the area’s plentiful apple orchards, Michigan apple cider is a refreshing and tasty beverage.

Where to Stay in Gaylord: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Treetops Resort: A beautiful ski resort that also offers golf, hiking, and the high ropes course.
  • Baymont by Wyndham Gaylord: Located in the heart of Gaylord, this hotel offers a convenient location and comfortable rooms.
  • Otsego Club & Resort: A charming resort that offers skiing, golf, and beautiful views of the surrounding nature.

What to Buy in Gaylord: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cherries: Northern Michigan is known for its tart cherries, so make sure to take some home, whether in a pie or a jar of cherry jam.
  • Maple Syrup: A local delicacy, Michigan-made maple syrup is perfect for topping off a stack of pancakes or waffles.
  • Lumberjack Apparel: Pay homage to Gaylord’s logging history with a lumberjack-inspired shirt or jacket.

Local Culture and Customs of Gaylord

Northern Michigan is known for its friendly locals, stunning natural beauty, and a deep appreciation for tradition and heritage. Visitors should take the opportunity to experience the local culture by visiting museums or attending community events, such as festivals or fairs.

Best Time to Visit Gaylord

The best time to visit Gaylord is in the summer months when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Fall is another popular time to visit because of the incredible colors of the leaves. Winter offers excellent skiing opportunities on the nearby mountains, while spring is a quieter time to visit with a refreshing sense of renewal in the air.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gaylord

Do:

  • Do take advantage of the outdoor activities and scenic views.
  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Do be respectful of the local wildlife.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t leave any food unsecured that may attract wildlife.
  • Don’t trespass on private property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gaylord

Gaylord is a relatively safe area, but visitors should still take precautions like locking their cars and securing their valuables.

Health in Gaylord

Visitors should be aware of ticks during the warmer months and take preventative measures such as wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent.

Getting to Gaylord: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gaylord

  • Cherry Capital Airport, Traverse City, MI (60 miles).
  • Pellston Regional Airport, Pellston, MI (40 miles).

Bus Stations Near Gaylord

  • Indian Trails Bus Station, Gaylord, MI

Other Options

  • Car rental: visitors can rent cars at the airports or in the downtown area.
  • Uber/Lyft: ride-sharing services are available in Gaylord.

How to Get Around in Gaylord

Visitors can get around Gaylord by car, bike, or on foot. Some attractions are outside of the city, so visitors may want to rent a car to explore the surrounding area fully.

Where to Go Next from Gaylord: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mackinac Island: A popular vacation destination known for its Victorian architecture and lack of motorized vehicles.
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Located on the coast of Lake Michigan, this stunning park offers hiking, swimming, and beautiful views of the sand dunes.
  • Traverse City: Known as the cherry capital of the world, Traverse City offers beaches, vineyards, and a vibrant downtown area.

Conclusion

Gaylord offers something for every type of traveler, from outdoor enthusiasts to foodies. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of Northern Michigan while discovering the unique culture and history of Gaylord. With so much to see and do, Gaylord is a must-visit destination when traveling to the Midwest.

Gaylord is known for its Alpine feel. Gaylord is known for its Alpine feel.