Petoskey, Michigan

Location: Lake Erie

Ease of Getting There:  8/10

Ease of Staying There: 9/10

Ease of Eating There: 10/10

Social Media - @downtownpetoskey

Located in northern Michigan on the shores of Lake Michigan on Little Traverse Bay, Petoskey is a charming resort town that offers an experience every season of the year.  You will be entranced by the year-round beauty and the activities available for families indoors and out. 

November starts off the winter season with high chances for some snow…. And Petoskey-area ski resorts usually open by Thanksgiving for an early start (even if they have to make the snow themselves).  The Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning is a great tradition to be part of as you kick off the weekend with friends and family.  Saturday, November 30 is the Petoskey Holiday Parade to usher in the Christmas season.

One of the favorite events of the entire Christmas season is the Petoskey Holiday Open House.  It is held the first Friday in December (12/6/19 this year) at 6:00 p.m..  Enjoy the city in all its festive attire as you walk the streets sampling roasted chestnuts, hot chocolate, and cups of soup to keep you warm.  The Petoskey High School steel drum band is there to entertain throughout the evening and is always a highlight.  Enjoy 170 unique shops in downtown Petoskey and get a start on your gift list.  Be on the watch for Santa as he flies in to light the Christmas tree in Pennsylvania Park.  

Traveling by car is four hours from Detroit, five-and-a-half hours from Chicago and three hours from Grand Rapids.  While visiting Petoskey, you will have a variety of options for accommodations and  dining.

Bundle up and come north this season!