So Much To See and Do!
There is so much to do and see in Northern Michigan Year-round. Cruise the Inland Waterway on your boat, head all the way to Mackinac Island and take a horse-drawn carriage ride. View the beautiful Historic Homes and ride around to see the amazing views. Don't forget to pick up some of the legendary fudge. In the fall, cruise the amazing Tunnel of Trees. Be sure to stop at Pond Hill Farm and select your pumpkin and take a look around. Hit up one of the festivals in the surrounding villages of Harbor Springs, Petoskey and Indian River. When Mother Nature turns the weather cold, take advantage of the Lake Effect and hit up the thousands of miles of Snowmobile trails, right from the front door. For another kind of speed, head to the local ski resorts of Boyne Highlands and Nubs Nob (home of the midwest's best snow). After a day of adventure hit up one of the local restaurants for an amazing Northern Michigan Dining experience! There is something for everyone, on your Northern Michigan Vacation, at Bear Cabin!
Petoskey (20 minute drive)
Petoskey is such a fun town! There are so many things to do and see in the downtown area. Our favorites include coffee shops, restaurants, shopping and ice cream!
Harbor Springs (20 minute drive)
Harbor Springs is so cute! This is definitely a harbor town with lots to see and do. Our favorites include shopping, dining, and looking at all of the beautiful houses and boats.
Mackinac Island (30 minute drive, then ferry to the island)
Mackinac Island is an iconic place in Northern Michigan. Drive to the ferry docks to park your car and hop on the ferry to Mackinac Island. Enjoy the day biking, shopping and sampling some of the famous fudge found there!
Dining
These are some of our recommendations. Let us know if you find something you love- we want to hear about it!
Michaels Tavern and Steakhouse - This is a great steak house close to Bear Cabin (they take reservations)
Barrelback - Located directly on Walloon Lake- order the wings and kids mac and cheese (no joke!): (go early wait times can be long, no reservations available)
Damsite Inn - This is an establishment around these parts- To call it old school is an understatement! (Closed Mid October Through May) Call ahead for seating (no reservations)
Pierson's Grille - Great restaurant in Harbor Springs- perfect for après ski:
Tap 30 - Cool tap room and restaurant in Petoskey- great beer selection:
Petoskey Brewing - Great Local Brewery and food! Very close to ski hills:
Legs Inn - Ranked Michigan's "2nd Most Iconic Restaurant:"
Noggin Room - Great pub atmosphere- try the pizza:
Staffords Pier - Fantastic harbor view in Harbor Springs on the water with a nautical theme (Reservations suggested)
BC Pizza - Delivery available to bear cabin.
Vivos - Excellent Italian! (wait times can be long in season, no reservations available)
Ice Cream
Drost Chocolates - Indian River
Kilwins Petoskey (multiple locations)
Area Events and Attractions
Top O Michigan Outboard Racing Club - Host an outboard race that goes through the Crooked River, Burt Lake, Crooked Lake, Mullett Lake and Indian River the second weekend in August.
Inland Waterway Water Trail - Did you know you can boat all the way to Lake Huron from Bear Cabin? Check out the amazing inland waterway trail.
Inland Waterway
Skiing - Skiing and snowboarding in Northern Michigan is a blast! Snowshoeing, XC Skiing and tubing are also available.
Boyne Highlands
Boyne Mountain
Indoor Recreation - There is still lots to do in the area on those days the weather is not cooperating.
Northern Lights Recreation (Petoskey) Bowling alley
Petoskey Ice Arena
Mini Golf
Big Bear Adventures - Indian River
Pirates Cove - Petoskey
Rafting tours / Paddling tours