Charlevoix Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, activities and tours, food and drink scene, and local culture and customs of Charlevoix, with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a picturesque city nestled in Northern Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay Area. Bordered by crystal-clear Lake Michigan, this small town has long been a favorite vacation spot for families, tourists, and locals alike. Charlevoix is known for its stunning natural vistas, cultural landmarks, and year-round outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Charlevoix

Whether you’re in search of cultural landmarks or breathtaking nature, Charlevoix has a place for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top locations to visit when you come to Charlevoix:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Charlevoix Historical Society
  • Earl Young’s Mushroom Houses
  • Beaver Island Historical Society
  • Charlevoix South Pier Light Station

Natural Attractions of Charlevoix: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Michigan Beach Park
  • Fisherman’s Island State Park
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
  • Jordan River Valley

Hiking/Biking Routes of Charlevoix

Charlevoix has a plethora of biking and hiking routes that allow you to explore the great outdoors while taking in the sights and sounds of Northern Michigan. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Charlevoix:

  • Little Traverse Wheelway
  • Fisherman’s Island Trail
  • Boyne City to Charlevoix Trail
  • Avalanche Preserve Recreation Area

Best Things to Do in Charlevoix: Activities and Tours

Charlevoix offers a wide range of activities and tours, from kayaking and fishing to helicopter tours and wine tastings. Here are some of the best things to do in Charlevoix:

  • Charlevoix Circle Tour
  • Lake Charlevoix Sunset Cruise
  • Castle Farms Tour
  • Winery Tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Charlevoix

Charlevoix offers so many things to see and do that a week-long itinerary is the perfect way to make sure you are getting the full experience. Here’s an itinerary to guide you through Charlevoix for a week:

Day Activity
1 Castle Farms Tour
2 Kayaking on Lake Charlevoix
3 Beaver Island Day Trip
4 Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
5 Fishing Charter Tour
6 Wine Tasting at Local Vineyards
7 Little Traverse Wheelway Bike Ride

Food and Drink Scene of Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a foodie’s dream, offering a wide range of cuisine to satisfy every palate. From fresh seafood to locally sourced produce, here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Charlevoix:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lake Superior Whitefish
  • Cherry BBQ Ribs
  • Charlevoix Chicken Salad
  • Michigan Cherry Pie

Local Beverages

  • Handcrafted Beer from Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company
  • Cherry Wine from Bel Lago Vineyards & Winery
  • Locally Roasted Coffee from Roast & Toast Coffee & Cafe

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

Charlevoix offers a selection of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Here are some of the top places to stay in Charlevoix:

  • Weathervane Terrace Inn & Suites - A centrally located hotel that offers stunning views of Lake Michigan.
  • Charlevoix House Bed & Breakfast - A cozy and welcoming bed and breakfast that offers homemade breakfast and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Charlevoix Hostel - An affordable and comfortable hostel that is perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Charlevoix has a lot to offer when it comes to unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best products to bring home from Charlevoix:

  • Cherry Products - From jam to candies, Charlevoix offers a wide range of products made with fresh Michigan cherries.
  • Mushroom House Merchandise - Take home a unique piece of Charlevoix’s cultural landmark with a Mushroom House-themed souvenir.
  • Lake Michigan Beach Glass Jewelry - Crafted from pieces of beach glass found along the shores of Lake Michigan, this jewelry is a perfect keepsake from your trip to Charlevoix.

Local Culture and Customs of Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a small town that takes pride in its local culture and customs. Here are some tips to help you navigate Charlevoix’s culture and customs:

  • Be friendly and respectful towards locals, who take pride in their town’s hospitality.
  • Take the time to appreciate the natural beauty of Charlevoix’s surroundings, which is an essential aspect of local culture.
  • Be open to trying new things, whether it be food or activities, as Charlevoix has plenty of unique and exciting experiences to offer.

Best Time to Visit Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the best time to visit Charlevoix based on the seasons:

  • Spring (April - May) - A great time for outdoor activities and spring flower shows.
  • Summer (June - August) - The busiest season, with warm weather, outdoor events, and plenty of water activities on Lake Michigan.
  • Fall (September - November) - A quieter season with fall foliage, wine festivals, and harvest season.
  • Winter (December - March) - A magical season with winter sports, holiday decorations, and cozy indoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Charlevoix

To make the most of your visit to Charlevoix, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Visit the town’s cultural landmarks and natural attractions.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Take part in outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
  • Show respect towards the locals and their culture.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the nearby natural surroundings.
  • Disrespect the locals’ customs and beliefs.
  • Be too loud or disruptive in public areas.
  • Ignore the beauty of Charlevoix’s natural surroundings.

Safety and Health

As with any destination, it’s essential to keep safety and health in mind when visiting Charlevoix.

Safety in Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a relatively safe destination, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always best to take precautions and keep an eye on your belongings when in crowded areas.

Health in Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a healthy destination with clean water and air. However, if visiting during the warmer months, be sure to protect yourself from bug bites and ticks.

Getting to Charlevoix: Transportation Options and Logistics

Charlevoix is well-connected to other major cities in the Midwest, making it easy to reach by plane, car, or bus.

Airports Near Charlevoix

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - Located in Traverse City, about an hour’s drive away from Charlevoix.
  • Pellston Regional Airport (PLN) - Located in Pellston, about twenty minutes’ drive away from Charlevoix.

Bus Stations Near Charlevoix

  • Indian Trails Bus Station - Located in Petoskey, about thirty minutes’ drive away from Charlevoix.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals – Multiple car rental agencies operate in Charlevoix, including Hertz and Avis.
  • Uber/Lyft – Both Uber and Lyft operate in Charlevoix and are a convenient way to get around the town.

How to Get Around in Charlevoix

Charlevoix is a compact town that is easy to navigate either by foot, bike, or car. Renting a bike or walking is a great way to explore the town’s natural beauty, while renting a car is a convenient way to get around.

Where to Go Next from Charlevoix: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Charlevoix is an excellent launchpad for exploring other nearby destinations in Northern Michigan. Here are some of the top locations to explore from Charlevoix:

  • Traverse City - A picturesque town with sandy beaches and a trendy downtown area.
  • Mackinac Island - A historic island that is only accessible by ferry and has no cars.
  • Petoskey - A small town famous for its beautiful Victorian architecture and vibrant arts scene.

Conclusion

Charlevoix is a hidden gem tucked away in Northern Michigan, waiting to be discovered. With a wide range of cultural and natural attractions, outdoor activities, and culinary delights, Charlevoix offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or a family-friendly vacation, Charlevoix is the perfect destination to explore.