From scenic drives through the Tunnel of Trees to delightful local cafes, here’s how to make the most of your visit.
The Tunnel of Trees: A Scenic Masterpiece
The Tunnel of Trees, a renowned scenic byway on M-119, is a must-see during your visit to Harbor Springs. This 20-mile stretch from Harbor Springs to Cross Village is celebrated for its stunning fall foliage. As you drive through this natural tunnel of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a living painting. It’s a perfect opportunity for photography and a leisurely drive, with plenty of spots to pull over and soak in the beauty.
Trillium Woods Coffee: A Cozy Stop Along the Way
Nestled along the Tunnel of Trees, Trillium Woods Coffee offers a delightful stop for a refreshing break. This charming coffee shop serves up a variety of specialty coffees, teas, and delicious pastries, making it the ideal place to warm up on a crisp fall day. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming environment where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful Lake Michigan views and the surrounding woods.
Three Pines Studio and Gallery: Artistic Inspiration
Art lovers will find Three Pines Studio and Gallery in Good Hart to be a captivating destination. This gallery showcases a diverse collection of artwork, including ceramics, paintings, and handcrafted items from local artists. The studio’s serene setting and the talent of the artists on display make it a wonderful place to explore and pick up unique souvenirs. Whether you’re looking for a piece of art to remember your trip or simply enjoy the creative ambiance, Three Pines Studio is a must-visit.
Good Hart General Store: Local Charm
The Good Hart General Store is a
nother local gem that shouldn’t be missed. This charming store offers a range of products, from bakery goods and pizza to tasty snacks and unique gifts. It’s a great place to pick up local items and experience the warmth of the local community. The store’s nostalgic atmosphere and friendly service add to the overall charm of your visit. Don’t forget to try their house made pizzas and chicken pot pies!
Photo courtesy of Sally Brumleve
Middle Village Park Beach: Relax and Unwind
Legs Inn: A Unique Dining Experience
Photo courtesy of Emily Comer
After a day of exploring, make your way to Legs Inn in Cross Village. This one-of-a-kind restaurant is renowned for its Polish cuisine and rustic, eclectic décor. Situated on a hill with a beautiful view of Lake Michigan, Legs Inn offers a unique dining experience with dishes like pierogi, stuffed cabbage, and kielbasa. The inn’s distinctive atmosphere, complete with its unique decor, provides a memorable dining experience that perfectly complements your day of fall color adventure. Outdoor seating is available. Closed Tuesdays, no pets, and the season closing date is October 20th.
Photo courtesy of Emily Comer
Fall Color Hiking and Biking: The Ultimate Autumn Adventure
In addition to the Tunnel of Trees, Harbor Springs offers a variety of fall color exploration that showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty. Consider the Little Traverse Wheelway, a scenic biking and hiking trail system that follows the shoreline around Little Traverse Bay, providing breathtaking views of the fall foliage against the backdrop of Lake Michigan.
The Little Traverse Conservancy provides a remarkable array of local nature preserves where you can fully immerse yourself in the stunning display of fall colors.
For a different experience, embark on a hiking adventure in nearby state parks. The Petoskey State Park and the Wilderness State Park offer a range of trails that meander through forests and along the lake, providing diverse perspectives on the autumn landscape.
Farmer’s Markets: A Taste of Local Flavor
Photo courtesy of Emily Comer
No visit to Harbor Springs would be complete without a visit to the local farmer’s markets. The Harbor Springs Farmer’s Market, held in the heart of town, is a delightful spot to explore regional produce, fresh meats, homemade goods, and artisanal treats. From fresh apples and pumpkins to homemade jams and baked goods, the market is a feast for the senses. Visit Harbor Springs Farmers Market for additional information.
Another great option is the Petoskey Farmer’s Market in downtown Petoskey. Here, you’ll find a variety of local vendors offering everything from organic vegetables to handcrafted crafts. It’s the perfect place to pick up some local produce, baked goods, locally harvested maple syrup, fresh cut flowers, and organic meats.
Bill’s Farm Market: Fresh Local Produce and More
Photo courtesy of Sally Brumleve
A short drive from Harbor Springs, Bill’s Farm Market in Petoskey is a must-visit for those who appreciate fresh, local produce. This family-owned market offers a variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and homemade goods. Whether you’re looking for fresh apples, pumpkins, or locally made maple syrup and honey, Bill’s Farm Market provides a great selection of high-quality products. It’s also a fantastic place to find unique seasonal items and support local farmers.
Day Trips: Mackinac Island and Tahquamenon Falls
If you have time for day trips, consider visiting Mackinac Island and Tahquamenon Falls.
Mackinac Island: A historic gem located in Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is known for its stunning natural beauty and charming atmosphere. The island is car-free, so you can explore it by bicycle, horse-drawn carriage, or on foot. Visit the iconic Grand Hotel, stroll through the quaint downtown area, and enjoy a famous Mackinac Island fudge treat. Don’t miss the chance to take a scenic bike ride or horse-drawn carriage tour around the island’s perimeter for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape. Ferries from Mackinac City and St. Ignace run all day and the trip across Lake Huron provides an opportunity to view the Mackinac Bridge, known as the 8th great wonder of the world.
Tahquamenon Falls: Located in the heart of the Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to one of Michigan’s most impressive natural wonders. The park features both the Upper and Lower Falls, with the Upper Falls being one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The fall colors here are equally stunning, providing a dramatic backdrop to the rushing waters. The park offers a range of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. While you’re there, stop in at the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and Pub for their amazing food and micro-brewed selections.
Create Memories
Harbor Springs and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of experiences, from scenic drives and cozy cafes to local shops and charming eateries. Whether you’re driving through the Tunnel of Trees, enjoying a coffee at Trillium Woods, or exploring nearby attractions like Mackinac Island and Tahquamenon Falls, the region’s natural beauty and local charm will make your visit truly memorable. Pack your bags and get ready for an autumn adventure in Northern Michigan that you’ll cherish for years to come!
Photo courtesy of Sally Brumleve
Sally Brumleve joined the HVR team in January 2020 in the capacity of Acquisitions and Resort Services. She is an outdoorsy northern Michigan native and enjoys kayaking, cycling, hiking, snowshoeing, and camping. She has spent the past 14 years in the hospitality industry with responsibilities in front office, revenue management, food and beverages, sales, housekeeping, and resort retail operations. Her career experiences have been in Michigan, Florida, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Prior to that, Sally spent 15 years as an entrepreneur living in the Upper Peninsula’s idyllic Les Cheneaux Islands, as the owner of a charming harbor market and managing broker for an area real estate company. She has experience in residential development and the lakefront cottage market. She holds a BA in Economics from the University of Michigan and an MBA in Strategic Leadership from Spring Arbor University. She holds ABR and GRI real estate designations. In her role as Acquisitions and Resort Services, Sally enjoys helping homeowners realize their financial goals through the rental management program. She feels fortunate to live in the Little Traverse Bay region where great communities, freshwater and four seasons come together.
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