Take the Road Less Traveled to Northport, Michigan
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On any given day, during any given season, I’m always looking for a new adventure. One of my favorite things to do is to take a quick day trip to explore one of the many unique towns in Northern Michigan. I’ve traveled to many locations, all within a quick drive of Traverse City, and out of all the places we’ve been, Northport stands out as the one that has completely captured us.
A Must-See Town at the Tip of the Leelanau Peninsula
Northport, Michigan, quenches both my need for recreation with a vibrant and ever-changing downtown. We love it so much, in fact, that we keep re-visiting the area, making a point to try new places each time. It never disappoints or gets old, and is easily accessible to anyone looking to expand their knowledge of the area and add new memories to their bank.
Located within a 45-minute drive of Traverse City, Northport sits at the very tip of the Leelanau Peninsula. The drive itself is one of my favorites, winding up West Bay’s coastline on M-22 and cutting through beautiful farmlands and wide open spaces. You could fill a day with making stops along the trek- enjoying wineries, bakeries, and quaint shops. However, you’ll want to leave the majority of the day to Northport itself, as you can easily fill an entire weekend with activities within the city’s boundaries.
Read more: 13 Beautiful Towns on the M22 Michigan Scenic Drive to Explore
Adventure Through Each Season
After traveling here through the seasons, I’ve rounded up all our favorite activities- including local secrets that you don’t want to miss. The beauty of Northport is unparalleled, and the spirit that exudes from this town is unforgettable. Listed below are my family’s top-notch recommendations- enjoy immersing yourself in the stunning surroundings of Northport, one of Northern Michigan’s greatest secrets.
Hiking the Mud Lakes Trail at Leleenau State Park
Densmore Rd, Northport, MI 49670
The Mud Lakes Trail at Leleenau State Park has it all. Views, variable terrain, hidden benches, dunes to run on, and the gorgeous Cathead Bay to swim in. We have hiked this trail time and again, through every season and in all conditions. All of the trails begin in the forest, with loops that range from 2-5 miles in length. There are no bad options- I’ve hiked them all, depending how much time we have!
During the summer, we typically select the “Lake Michigan” section of the Trail. After about a mile, you’ll reach a spur trail that leads to an expansive view of the dunes and Cathead Bay beyond. We spend quite a bit of time on the dunes- running, jumping, and exploring! Then we head to the beach for swimming, wave jumping, and rock hunting. For me, this place is near perfection.
During the fall, I love running the entire 5-mile loop under the changing colors, and in the winter, the trails are ideal for cross-country skiing. I make my way to the beach no matter when I come, as the views are out of this world, and the silence you can find here always brings me peace.
Read more: Explore Leelanau State Park
Make your Own Bouquet at Omena U-Cut Flowers
12401 E Freeland Rd, Suttons Bay, MI 49682
Omena U-Cut Flowers sits at the gateway of Northport. Locally owned and operated, this farm gives you the chance to experience the beauty found in flowers that are grown just for this area. My daughter and I stop here every trip to Northport, and each time, we walk away with a unique bouquet of flowers that inspires us with wonder.
This is a self-service farm, with all the tools you need on-site. Simply pick up a pair of scissors and wander the aisles full of seasonal blooms. Each flower has a price, so when you are done making your bouquet, just add it up and pay via Venmo or check. Bonus- the owner provides vases if you’d like for an additional small fee.
Picnic at Peterson Park
10001 E Peterson Park Rd, Northport, MI 49670
We found this gem by accident. When driving to our favorite hike, we passed a small sign that pointed towards Peterson Park, and we decided to give it a go. Situated on top of a hill, this park has direct views of Lake Michigan’s clear blue waters. There are picnic tables, restrooms, and a playground by the parking area, with steps leading to the beach below. This beach is a rock-hound’s paradise! There isn’t much sand here- instead the shoreline is full of rocks of all shapes, sizes, and textures! Pine trees hang over the turquoise water, with Fox Island seen in the distance.
Scratch-Made Food at New Bohemia Cafe
110 S Waukazoo St, Northport, MI 49670
New Bohemia Café offers quality, made-from-scratch food & espresso drinks perfect for fueling up before or after a hike or swim. We love ordering take-out sandwiches for a picnic on the trail, at the park, or before we hit a local beach. Our favorites- The Figgy Piggy, Spicy Bacon Breakfast Burrito, and the Honey Cardamom Latte.
The Best Wood-Fired Pizza at FARO
107 E Nagonaba St, Northport, MI 49670
Another staple in our diet- PIZZA. At FARO Northport, you will find locally sourced, wood-fired pizza at its best. Offering weekly specials with fresh ingredients, this pizza is perfect at the end of the day. They feature unique cocktails, great beer, and a cozy atmosphere. We love their Potato & Bacon pizza, Kale Caesar Salad, and classic Margherita.
Take a Dip at Christmas Cove Beach
E Christmas Cove Rd, Northport, MI 49670
If you are looking for a beach off the beaten path, this one’s for you. Tucked between trees, and hidden down a dirt road, Christmas Cove Beach provides a place to unwind and find your rhythm. The water is an unbelievable blue, and the quietude found here will silence the often overcrowded beaches of Traverse City. We love coming here for either any length of time- it resets our family and reminds us that we are truly lucky to experience Northern Michigan at its peak.
Drink a Cold One at Northport’s Hot Spots
The Mitten Brewery
112 W Nagonaba St, Northport, MI 49670
I’m a craft beer lover, and The Mitten Brewery has never let me down. They originated in Grand Rapids, but expanded to both Northport and Saugatuck. The beer list ranges from classic styles, like a crispy Pilsner and rich Amber, but also experiments with Hazy IPAs, Peanut Butter Porters, and Mexican Hot Chocolate Stouts. Make sure to order a handcrafted pie from the North End Pizza truck permanently serving this location.
Lake & Yard
215 Mill St, Northport, MI 49670
Part store, part beer bus & restaurant, Lake & Yard is a vibe- a shop by day, and a party by night. Think roaring outdoor fires, a bus stocked with unique drinks, and a menu that ranges from warm cookies to pork sandwiches to a delicious beet salad. The storefront goods are unique to the area and have a little bit of everything. Home goods, fragrances, and cozy blankets line the shelves, with a secret back room for kids to explore treasures in.
Unique Shopping Stops Around Town
Dog Ears Books
106 S Waukazoo St, Northport, MI 49670
Dog Ears Books is an independently owned bookstore that reminds you why you read. The store is somewhere you can get lost in books, with personal recommendations from the owner. The shelves have both used and new books, with rare editions stocked on shelves. Grab a cup of coffee next door at New Bohemia Café and come browse for an afternoon.
Porcupine
102 W Nagonaba St, Northport, MI 49670
Porcupine advertises as a “cozy little cabin” right in the heart of Northport. Need I say more? It is hands-down my favorite shop in Northport, with curated goods that scream of the outdoors. From handmade jewelry to recipe books for backpacking, to camping cocktails, this place invites you to get out and explore. Built into an old cabin, everything that this store offers feels heartfelt and alive.
Create Your Own Adventure
The list could go on and on- besides these meaningful places, there is also bowling, a delectable taco shop, ice cream served straight out of a street window, and a front and center beach that flanks the downtown area. Being in Northport feels like stepping back in time, in the best possible way. Every time I leave, I feel recentered, like I just took the longest, deepest breath. I hope you, too, find the time to slow down and trek to the magical trails of Northport.