Autumn in Charlevoix is stunning, charming, relaxing, and all yours.
Who’s excited for fall color tours, pumpkin spice lattes, corn mazes, and caramel apples? If you can’t tell, fall is one of our favorite seasons. And there is no better place to be during the season than Charlevoix, in fact, Expedia recently named Charlevoix as the best place to travel in October. The fall colors are ablaze, the night sky is brilliant, and Northern Michigan is full of delights. We’re taking a moment to share some of our favorite places to go and things to do during the fall season.
Wait, what?! September?
Let’s talk about September for a moment. We believe it is one of the most underrated months to visit Charlevoix. We love September because the average daily temperature is 71 degrees and the water is still warm (you can even still go out on a boat ride)! Added bonus: the fall colors are just starting to appear. You can also enjoy minimal wait times at attractions and restaurants.
Fab Farm Life
Sometimes in the hustle and bustle of life, we forget the simple simplicity of farm life. The fall is a time to get out and explore the beauty of farm life. Whether you find your way through a corn maze, try an apple cider, pick apples, hunt for the perfect pumpkin to carve this Halloween, barnyard petting zoos, or take a wagon ride through the orchards, getting back to the basics of why we all love fall is a must.
Nighttime wonder
There is something majestic about the nighttime skyscapes. The cool evening temps bring out the best of the cosmos and there is minimal light pollution making it one more great reason to stargaze in Charlevoix. Not only is the Milky Way on full display, you may even catch a shooting star or two. If you are very lucky, you may even catch the Aurora Borealis dancing across the nighttime sky.
Swing into colors
Hit the links this fall by exploring five courses located within Charlevoix the Beautiful. Whether you are looking for undulating greens, courses steeped in history, breathtaking views, or challenging fairways the perfect course awaits you.
Fall time vibes
There is something to look forward to with the colors changing and the opportunity of exploring Charlevoix during this season. When you visit during fall, you will find a peaceful air about the town. Enjoy minimal waits at attractions and restaurants, great savings on last season’s merchandise, and discounts on weeknight room rates. The fall colors are calling and it’s time to experience that small-town vibe perfected in Charlevoix.
The colors are waiting, so get on your way
If you’re out for a drive on Charlevoix’s scenic back roads, the surrounding countryside is full of gently rolling hills and abundant foliage that’s sure to satisfy that fall color trip you’ve been waiting for.
Around Lake Charlevoix
Enjoy the views of Lake Charlevoix. The drive around Lake Charlevoix is a great color route; this journey will take you through East Jordan, Boyne City and Charlevoix.
The Breezeway
Rolling hills, picturesque Michigan farms, and the south arm of Lake Charlevoix are highlights of this tour. Beginning in Atwood, pass through Ellsworth and East Jordan, and finishes in Boyne Falls.
Torch Lake Tour
Head south out of Charlevoix toward Eastport. This scenic drive will take you along Torch Lake. There are sure to be great fall colors. Enjoy craft beer, food, and live music at Shorts Brewery on Bridge St. downtown Bellaire.
Jordan River Valley
Be sure to enjoy the scenic overlooks including the spectacular Jordan River Valley. From Charlevoix, head south toward East Jordan. Travel through Boyne Falls and Boyne Falls before returning to Charlevoix for an evening on the town.
Tunnel of Trees
Rated one of the most scenic, winding roads in America, especially for motorcyclists, take a day trip north and check out the M-119 Tunnel of Trees.
You’ll see great sights, whichever path you choose
Little Traverse Wheelway
Stretching 26 miles, from Charlevoix to Petoskey, the Little Traverse Wheelway weaves along Lake Michigan. Set course along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, there are numerous places to take great photos of the fall colors.
Lake to Lake Trail
Connecting Lake Charlevoix to Lake Michigan, this bike trail winds through tree-covered paths. Enjoy spectacular fall colors winds through the forests of Charlevoix. Stop at Ferry Beach or Fisherman Island State Park for a scenic picnic. If you visit Fisherman’s Island, see if you can find an allusive Petoskey Stone.
Ransom Nature Preserve
Ransom Nature Preserve has spectacular views of Charlevoix, Beaver Island, and the Leelanau Peninsula. This place is every photographer’s paradise. There are numerous trails to explore and photo opportunities awaiting you.
Waterway Tours
If you’re feeling up for an adventure, rent a raft or kayak from Jordan Valley Outfitters and set course down the Jordan River. This is one of our favorite ways to take in the fall colors. Launch your boat and cruise along the shores of Lake Charlevoix for a breathtaking color tour.
After a day of exploring Northern Michigan, stop downtown Charlevoix for dinner, a craft beer, or a tasty treat. Explore downtown boutiques for amazing fall discounts and one of a kind merchandise. Just before the sun sets, stroll along the pier toward the lighthouse and enjoy the sunset on Lake Michigan. Click here for a fall color tour map. Northern Michigan is home to lots of great wineries, distilleries, and craft breweries, here's a map of all of the great places you should visit this fall.
