Family Adventure in Northern Michigan

Day 1: Outdoor Exploration

Traverse City, Michigan

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe, offering delicious omelets and pancakes.
Head to The Omelette Shoppe located at 1209 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49686.
$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Spend the morning exploring the stunning sand dunes and picturesque views at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Drive 25 miles west on MI-72 W and follow signs to Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Free, 2-3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Filling Station Microbrewery

Enjoy a lunch of gourmet pizzas and craft beers at The Filling Station Microbrewery.
Head to 642 Railroad Pl, Traverse City, MI 49686 for a delightful meal.
$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Grand Traverse Commons

Walk around the historic buildings of Grand Traverse Commons, offering shops, galleries, and scenic walking trails.
Drive 2 miles north on E Front St to reach Grand Traverse Commons.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Apache Trout Grill

Indulge in fresh seafood and delicious steaks at the lakeside Apache Trout Grill for dinner.
Head to 13671 S W Bay Shore Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684 for a delightful dinner experience.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 2: Island Exploration

Mackinac Island, Michigan

8:00AM

Ferry to Mackinac Island

Take a ferry to Mackinac Island, known for its historic charm and absence of cars, perfect for a scenic escape.
Drive to Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry (556 E Central Ave, Mackinaw City, MI 49701) to catch the ferry.
$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Bike Around the Island

Rent bikes to explore the beautiful island, including a visit to Arch Rock and Fort Mackinac.
Rent bikes near the ferry dock and begin your island exploration.
$$, 3-4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pink Pony

Enjoy a relaxing lunch with waterfront views at Pink Pony, a popular restaurant on Mackinac Island.
Head to 7221 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757 for a delicious meal.
$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Shop at Island boutiques

Explore the unique boutiques on Mackinac Island for souvenirs and local handmade items.
Stroll through the streets of the island to discover charming boutiques.
$, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Seabiscuit Cafe

Savor comfort food and delicious desserts at the cozy Seabiscuit Cafe before heading back to the mainland.
Visit 7336 Main St, Mackinac Island, MI 49757 for a delightful dinner experience.
$$$, 2 hours
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Day 3: Small Town Charm

Charlevoix, Michigan

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Flour Garden

Start your day with a cozy breakfast at The Flour Garden, known for its freshly baked goods and coffee.
Head to 203 Bridge St, Charlevoix, MI 49720 for a delightful breakfast.
$, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Earl Young's Mushroom Houses

Walk around Charlevoix to discover the whimsical Mushroom Houses designed by architect Earl Young.
Take a walk or drive around city center Charlevoix to spot these unique houses.
Free, 1-2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Scovie's Gourmet

Enjoy a gourmet deli-style lunch at Scovie's Gourmet, offering delicious sandwiches and salads.
Head to 111 Bridge St, Charlevoix, MI 49720 for a tasty lunch.
$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stroll along Lake Michigan Beach

Relax by taking a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Lake Michigan beach in Charlevoix.
Head to the beach access points near downtown Charlevoix and enjoy the scenic views.
Free, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Grey Gables Inn Restaurant

End your trip with a gourmet dinner at the elegant Grey Gables Inn Restaurant, known for its fine dining and charming atmosphere.
Head to 308 Belvedere Ave, Charlevoix, MI 49720 for a sophisticated dining experience.
$$$, 2 hours
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