For such a small area, downtown Harbor Springs is surprisingly bustling in the summer. There are four blocks of shops, with a large number of upscale boutiques, a couple of small town coffeehouses, numerous art galleries, and a few of the always popular fudge shops. Northern Michigan fudge shops are a staple of the area as every visitor makes a trip to their favorite one at least twice during their stay. There are also popular, must-see restaurants such as Mary Ellen’s, which is a 50’s-inspired soda fountain that maintains its original appearance, and Bar Harbor, which draws yachtsmen in off the lake with its world-class hamburgers.

Located a few miles away from the downtown area are both the Nubs Nob and Boyne Highlands ski resorts. The Nubs Nob recreation area offers cross-country and downhill skiing on its 246 acres. There are 43 runs to keep visitors entertained and some slopes run upwards of a mile in length. Boyne Highlands has 50 ski trails, which are serviced by 10 lifts, in addition to a terrain park and recently expanded cross-country ski trails. However, Boyne Highlands is not just a winter destination as this mountain resort offers three championship courses for summer visitors of Harbor Springs. One course that any avid golfer simply will not want to miss is the 18-hole Heather, which is considered one of the most scenic and picturesque courses in the country.