Discover Craft Beverage Tour

From the reaches of the Keweenaw Peninsula to Downtown Detroit, Michigan is a craft beverage gold mine of breweries, wineries, distilleries and cideries. Visitors will find a perfect, flavorful experience everywhere they go, but the northwest region of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula has a spectacular natural backdrop that pairs perfectly with its unique, local flavors that can’t be found anywhere else.

 

1. PETOSKEY

Petoskey is a perfect destination for your craft beverage cravings. Stop by Beards Brewery to sip their unique brews from their 24 taps and a bite to eat on their patio overlooking Little Traverse Bay. While you’re there, make sure you try their limited release and “pub only” beers while you have the chance.  Petoskey Brewing Company—which is located in a historical building built in 1898 that was designed specifically for brewing—features fresh-ground burgers to go with their unforgettable craft beers that are brewed using pure artisan spring water.  

While you’re in Petoskey, don’t miss out on the chance to go hunting for the fossil that shares the city’s name: Petoskey stones. These stones are made of fossilized coral that was dispersed by receding glaciers that shaped the landscape long ago. A great place to do this—and lounge on the beach—is at Petoskey State Park. Here you can swim in Lake Michigan, as well as rent kayaks, paddleboards and bikes to explore the area and take in the scenic views. 

 

2. CHARLEVOIX

The charming, coastal town of Charlevoix is home to some spectacular craft beverage creators. On the shore of Round Lake in downtown Charlevoix, Lake Charlevoix Brewing Company has a fantastic selection of flagship, seasonal and unique collaborative beers created with other Michigan breweries. If you’re interested in wine tasting, head over to 1918 Cellars Wine Tasting Room in the Queen’s Tavern at Castle Farms where you can find amazing local wine and a one-of-a-kind, rustic ambiance. South of Charlevoix you will find artisan potters turned brewers at Bier’s Inwood Brewery, specializing in creative, small-batch beers and wines in a relaxed setting with rolling countryside and Lake Michigan views.  

 

While you’re in town, check out the world-famous Mushroom Houses designed by architect Earl Young. These eclectic homes look like they came straight out of J.R.R Tolkien’s Shire with undulating roofs and stone façades. The iconic, red South Pier Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Michigan is another picturesque attraction you won’t want to miss – and make time for the beach to enjoy the lake’s crystal-blue waters and scenic views. 

 

3. BELLAIRE

Bellaire has some amazing craft beverage destinations in the heart of its downtown. The famous Short’s Brewing Company has become a Michigan staple over the years and brews both seasonal favorites and a stellar selection of flagship beers. Across the street from Short’s you can find Bee Well Meadery that serves local meads and ciders, including must-try rotations of limited, small-batch recipes. If you prefer spirits, Mammoth Distilling has a tasting room right downtown with a selection that was crafted with local ingredients to reflect the flavors of Northern Michigan.

While you’re in Bellaire, check out some of the area’s natural landscape at Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area. Here you can hike or bike some of the largest hills in Michigan on 31.5 miles of trails—not to mention find some stunning scenic views. Grass River Natural Area (GRNA) is another must-visit outdoors attraction and is a vital nature preserve. GRNA’s trail and boardwalk travels through seven miles of wetlands, a meadow and upland forest that provide a perfect outdoor escape.

 

4. TRAVERSE CITY

Traverse City is surrounded by regional agriculture that supplies the city’s thriving craft beverage scene. Grand Traverse Distillery’s downtown tasting room provides a local twist with their award-winning spirits, especially in the city’s signature cherry flavor. North Peak Brewing Company—which is housed in a building that used to be a candy factory—is a local favorite with a selection of beers that is best sipped while enjoying local, live music. If you prefer cider, stop by Taproot Cider House for a flight of one-of-a-kind and regionally sourced ciders, as well as spirits and fresh cuisine created from local ingredients.



You also won’t want to miss visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore where you can view the waters of Lake Michigan from atop 400-foot, sandy dunes. Another local treasure is The Village at Grand Traverse Commons that lives in the historical buildings formerly home to the Traverse City State Hospital. Here you can find boutique shops and restaurants unlike anywhere else and experience some of unique Traverse City’s local history.