Manistee Lighthouse
Historic lighthouse on the North Pier. Good views and a nice place for a walk.
Chapter 07 · Local favorites
Fun Things to Do
Fun things to do in the area - check before you visit.
First Street Beach
One of the area's largest beaches - rated one of Manistee's most beautiful.
S.S. City of Milwaukee
Preserved ferry offering tours in spring and summer, plus a haunted house in October.
North Country Trail
The Manistee River Trail & North Country Trail Loop - a 20-mile trail to hike, bike, cross-country ski and snowshoe.
U-Pick Farms
Lutz Farms, 5 minutes from the house. U-pick strawberries, cherries and blueberries. Seasonal - check the website for schedule.
The Vogue Theatre
Historic cinema opened in 1938 in downtown Manistee, with its original neon signage and a newly renovated interior.
Magoon Creek Park
Peaceful natural area featuring scenic bluffs, a beach, hiking and biking trails, and picnic spots.
Manistee Museum
The Manistee Historical Museum offers a look into the area's rich history.
Lake Bluff Farms
1,500 feet of Lake Michigan frontage on 76 acres in Manistee County, with a bird sanctuary.
Portage Point Pier
The closest Lake Michigan beach to the home - a 16 minute drive.
Little River Casino
Casino, restaurant and live shows. Check the website for events.
Cherry Bowl Drive-In
One of the few remaining drive-in movie theaters. Seasonal.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
Known for the huge scalable dunes of the Dune Climb. A popular day trip, about an hour's drive.
Historic Trolley Tour
Roughly one-hour tours in beautifully restored trolleys - a sought-out attraction for many visitors.
Northern MI Dragway
Check Northern Michigan Dragway's website for racing schedule and info.
Manistee Riverwalk
A 1.5 mile walking path along the river with a park at the end.
Arcadia Overlook
Scenic overlook turnout on M-22 just north of Arcadia - the highest point on the West Michigan shore.
Arcadia Dunes
The Arcadia Dunes C.S. Mott Nature Preserve - hiking, biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Green Point Dunes
Nature preserve with three miles of walking trails winding through forest with views.
Riverside Canoes
Tubing, canoes, kayaks and paddle boards on the river near Crystal Lake.
Family Disc Golf Course
Free to play. A newly built, short-distance, family and youth friendly obstacle disc golf course.
Ramsdell Theatre
Historic playhouse and opera house in downtown Manistee. Check the website for live performances.
Crystal Mountain Resort
Downhill skiing, a sledding track, spa, lodging and several dining options - year-round sports.
Ludington State Park
Cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. Rent snowshoes for free - book in advance.
'Big M' Trail System
A non-motorized trail system - a fat-tire biking and cross-country skiing destination with groomed trails.