13 Delightful Things to do in Charlevoix Michigan in the Fall

Looking for the best things to do in Charlevoix Michigan in the fall? These are some of the most recommended places to visit and activities to do when visiting Charlevoix in the fall (or other seasons).

Planning a trip to Charlevoix Michigan, especially in the fall, is super exciting! If you’re anything like me, you’re here because you love to research and plan your trip ahead of time. As a travel lover and Michigander, I am giving you suggestions for the best things to do in Charlevoix in the fall.

You are going to learn about things to do, restaurants, local festivals, and where to stay. After learning about what to do while visiting, you are going to be ready for your next fall Charlevoix travel adventure!

This post is 13 Delightful Things to do in Charlevoix Michigan in the Fall.

Things to do in Charlevoix Michigan: Fall Season

1. During the month of October, Charlevoix has an autumn celebration called the Apple Festival. There is so much to do and see! Located in downtown Charlevoix, you will find several rows of vendors selling art, crafts, fall decor, holiday gifts, and more. There are several food vendors as well selling fall favorites like apples, apple cider, and donuts. For kids, there is a small petting zoo. 

2. Located 15 minutes south of Charlevoix, is Friske’s Farm Market. They offer several fall themed events throughout the month of October including applefest and fall fest Saturdays. Offering apple picking, tours of the farm, and more, you’ll enjoy a fun fall outing here. While you’re there, enjoy a homemade wood fired pizza. Friske’s is famous for their homemade baked goods including their delicious fruit pies. Take one home with you! 

3. Visiting any part of Michigan in the fall MUST include a color tour. The trees in northern Michigan are spectacular with the most beautiful shades of orange, red, and yellow. A popular route for a color tour is M-119, just north of Harbor Springs. It includes the famous tunnel of trees. This would be about an hour drive starting from Charlevoix and driving north through Harbor Springs and beyond. Another option is to drive along M-22, hugging the shore of Lake Michigan.

4. Located about 45 minutes north of Charlevoix is Pond Hill Farm near Harbor Springs. A popular northern Michigan attraction, the farm goes all out for fall. They have several fall activities like pumpkin smashing, hayrides, pumpkin bowling, a large pumpkin patch, a scavenger hunt, some farm animals, and a large barn serving lunch and drinks. It’s a great location to hang out for the day and enjoy the sights of fall. 

Things to do in Charlevoix Michigan: Year Round

5. Next on the list are the famous Mushroom Houses. Designed by Earl Young in the late 1920’s, these houses are incredibly unique. Some of them are built with thatch roofs, stone exteriors, and curved walls. If you are a fan of Lord of the Rings, these houses will feel like you’re walking through a hobbit neighborhood. Feel free to explore the neighborhood with a self guided tour. There are several signs throughout the neighborhood offering details of house and its history. If you prefer a guided tour, check out Mushroom House Tours!

6. Michigan Beach is not far from the Mushroom House neighborhood. At this beach you’ll find Charlevoix’s South Pier Lighthouse. Although October may be too cold to go swimming, it’s still worth visiting. If you enjoy a treasure hunt, look for Petoskey stones along the shore. Petoskey stones are fossils native to Michigan. After being polished, they make beautiful souvenirs or jewelry. If you’re visiting Charlevoix in the summer, I highly recommended coming to this beach. 

7. Along the main street of downtown Charlevoix you’ll find plenty of shopping. Cute little boutiques offer unique gifts and souvenirs. Take an afternoon stroll along while getting some shopping therapy.

8. Castle Farms is a beautiful castle located seven minutes outside of Charlevoix. They offer a variety of things to do including a large outdoor model railroad, beautiful gardens and grounds, a World War I museum, castle tours, and other private collections. For the castle tours, they offer both guided and self-guided tours. The outdoor gardens offer several photo opportunities, which is great for families and couples wanting to get some great fall photos! 

Things to do in Charlevoix Michigan: Restaurants

9. JAX Northside Food & Spirits offers home cooked style meals on their menu options like meat and potatoes, seafood, and salads. I had their lake perch with a baked potato on the side and it was delicious! The lake perch was perfectly cooked, tender, and flaky. I highly recommend it! 

10. That French Place is a super cute little bakery in downtown Charlevoix. They offer delicious crepes and other baked goods like kouign amann and croissants, as well as coffee and hot chocolate. The crepes come in several different flavors, both savory and sweet. 

11. Grey Gables Inn is a Charlevoix staple, located inside a historic home steps away from Lake Charlevoix. They offer an upscale menu including a multiple course dinner option. 

12. Designed by Earl Young, the same architect that developed the mushroom houses, Stafford’s The Weathervane is another Charlevoix classic. It sits on the channel between Lake Charlevoix and Round Lake, offering spectacular water views. Enjoy a delicious meal while watching the boats go by as well as the busy drawbridge. 

13. Known for its smoked meats and breakfast, Smoke on the Water is a great downtown option. Get there early because their dining room fills up quickly!  

Things to do in Charlevoix Michigan: Where to Stay

We stayed at the modern The Earl of Charlevoix hotel. This boutique hotel is beautifully designed with a cozy lobby and bar upon entering. Each room offers modern features. Mid Century Modern is my favorite type of architecture, and this hotel definitely gives off upscale, mod vibes. 

Next door to The Earl of Charlevoix is Edge Water Inn. Another great option. Both are located walking distance to the downtown area and Lake Charlevoix. 

Charlevoix is one of the most beautiful cities in northern Michigan! Year round, it offers spectacular views of sparkling Lake Charlevoix, small town charm, and historic architecture. However, visiting Charlevoix in the fall is unbeatable. The changing colors of the foliage, crisp, clean air with a hint of fresh water, and its fun fall activities make it an ideal city to celebrate the changing of the seasons. 

This post is 13 Delightful Things to do in Charlevoix Michigan in the Fall.