By Stacey Wittig
Petoskey, Harbor Springs and Bay Harbor in Northern Michigan are charming destinations that warmly welcome four-legged globe trotters. With pet-friendly beaches, eateries and natural attractions, these towns on Lake Michigan offer you and your furry friends the perfect watery getaway.
Little Traverse Bay Ferry
One of the most convenient and enjoyable ways to travel between these three towns is via the Little Traverse Bay Ferry. This pup-friendly ferry service connects Petoskey, Harbor Springs and Bay Harbor, offering a rare, relaxing and scenic mode of transportation.
Don’t worry about ruff seas during the half-hour crossings because you’re sailing in a protected bay. Pets are welcome on board, making it easy to explore all three towns without the hassle of driving in traffic. Good buoy!
Petoskey
Ruff Life Pet Outfitters
In Petoskey, start your visit with a trip to Ruff Life Pet Outfitters. This well-provisioned pet store provides everything you might need for your four-legged traveling companion, from food and toys to grooming supplies and accessories. It’s a great place to ensure your pet is well-prepared for the adventures ahead. Check out their Facebook community for bi-monthly leashed dog walks in the Northwoods.
Lunch at City Park Grill
When it’s time for a break, visit City Park Grill for a pet-friendly dining experience. The restaurant’s sidewalk dining offers a welcoming atmosphere for dog-accompanied patrons, with a menu that includes local favorites and delicious meals perfect for refueling after a morning of exploration.
We chose the City Park Salad with dried cherries, the iconic fruit of northwestern Michigan. Ernest Hemingway fans will want to sit at the Victorian bar where the author extinguished his cigar right into the wood. Bone appetit!
Harbor Springs
The Highlands Resort
The Highlands Resort is a real tail wagger for pet-friendly accommodations in the Petoskey area. This ritzy resort offers a range of pet amenities, including designated walking areas and pet-friendly rooms with plush dog beds, shiny stainless-steel bowls and chew toys. Enjoy the various activities available at the resort, from hiking trails to scenic views.
Zoll Street Beach in Downtown Harbor Springs
Doggy paddle with your pooch at Zoll Street Beach, where dogs are welcome. The water is clear, and the sand is deep. It’s an excellent spot in downtown Harbor Springs to relax and breathe in the lush green surroundings.
Bay Harbor
Bay Harbor, a picturesque, pet-friendly village, is connected to the other two towns by ferry. Sniff out the town’s charming streets, shops and restaurants, many of which welcome you and your four-legged friend.
“People here are so nice to me and my dog,” smiles Doug, a summer boating resident. “That’s why I keep coming back.”
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or docks with your four-legged buddy, enjoying the beautiful views and relaxing atmosphere. Be sure to snap a photo of you and your Nauti Boy enjoying the ferry ride.
Activities Beyond the Ferry
Boyne Valley Vineyards and Blu Dot Farm and Vineyards
You and your four-legged pal will be on cloud wine at Boyne Valley Vineyards, where you can enjoy wine tasting while your sweet pup relaxes by your side.
Blu Dot is a horse farm turned winery where over 300 horses were once born or raised. Now, you can sip and play cornhole at the 10-acre vineyard known for its vintage 1973 Airstream tasting room. Get off-leash at nearby Ridge Run Dog Park in Boyne, an excellent spot to socialize with other dogs.
Rockhounding at Solanus Beach
For a unique experience, head to Solanus Beach for some rockhounding. This beach is known for its Petoskey stones, a fossilized coral naturally polished by the water, that are popular souvenirs. While exploring the beach, your rock hound can enjoy the outdoor adventure alongside you.
Petoskey State Park
Petoskey State Park offers stunning natural beauty and a variety of trails to explore. Although the beach area is not dog-friendly, there are plenty of other areas within the park where you and your K-9 friends can enjoy scenic walks and take in the local flora and fauna.
Lunch at Pond Hill Farms
Pond Hill Farms is another lovely spot for a pet-friendly lunch. The picturesque setting enhances the farm-to-table dining experience, and furry friends are welcome to join you on the patio as you enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals. Afterward, wander the farm’s trails to the vineyards and outdoor areas.
Traveling with your pet to Petoskey, Harbor Springs and Bay Harbor offers a delightful mix of activities, natural beauty and welcoming places to eat.
From the convenience of the Little Traverse Bay Ferry to the pet-friendly vineyards, beaches and restaurants, these towns provide a perfect getaway for you and your four-legged friends. Embrace the adventure and create unforgettable memories with your canine companion in these pet-friendly Northwestern Michigan destinations.
Catch a direct flight from June to August between Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport and Traverse City, Michigan.
Stacey Wittig loves sharing travel tales. Get more insider tips and inspiration at UnstoppableStaceyTravel.com.
