Things to Do in Petoskey
Things to Do in Petoskey, MI: See Little Traverse Bay from the Water
Looking for the best things to do in Petoskey? Ride the Little Traverse Bay Ferry, book a sunset cruise aboard the Harbor Princess, explore Harbor Springs and Bay Harbor, and enjoy one of Northern Michigan’s most memorable waterfront experiences.
One of the Most Unique Attractions in Petoskey
Petoskey is known for its waterfront, charming downtown, and beautiful views of Little Traverse Bay. One of the best ways to experience it all is from the water. The Little Traverse Bay Ferry connects Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Bay Harbor, while the Harbor Princess offers sunset cruises, fireworks cruises, history cruises, and other special event sailings throughout the season.
Whether you are planning a family outing, a date night, a vacation stop, or a private celebration, getting out on the water is one of the top things to do in Petoskey and one of the best ways to enjoy Northern Michigan from a different perspective.
Popular Cruises and Experiences in Petoskey
If you are searching for things to do in Petoskey this summer, these are some of the most popular ways to experience Little Traverse Bay.
Sunset Cruises
One of the most popular evening activities in Petoskey. Relax aboard the Harbor Princess and watch the sun set over the bay.
Fireworks Cruises
Skip the traffic and crowds and enjoy a front-row seat on the water for summer fireworks displays.
History Cruises
Learn about the shoreline, local landmarks, and waterfront communities through special narrated cruises.
Ferry Rides Between Harbor Towns
Ride between Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Bay Harbor for sightseeing, dining, shopping, and market days.
Special Event Cruises
From Boyne Thunder and U Gotta Regatta to seasonal favorites, the Harbor Princess offers a front-row view of the action.
Private Charters
Plan a wedding event, rehearsal dinner, birthday party, family gathering, or corporate outing on the water.
Don’t Miss Sunset Cruises from Petoskey
If you only pick one evening activity in town, make it a sunset cruise. The Harbor Princess offers a relaxing way to end the day, with open-water views, fresh air, and a front-row seat to some of the best sunsets on Little Traverse Bay.
For visitors looking for romantic things to do in Petoskey, memorable family activities, or a unique addition to a Northern Michigan getaway, sunset cruises are consistently one of the most popular choices.
See More Than Just Downtown Petoskey
A cruise fits perfectly into a full day in Petoskey. Spend the morning shopping downtown, enjoy lunch or ice cream near the waterfront, walk Bayfront Park, then head out on the water for a ferry ride or evening cruise.
- Great for couples, families, groups, and visitors
- Easy access from Bayfront Park in Petoskey
- A scenic way to connect Harbor Springs and Bay Harbor
- A memorable alternative to the usual drive-around-the-bay itinerary
A Great Add-On to the Little Traverse Wheelway
The ferry is also one of the most practical and enjoyable things to do in Petoskey if you are bringing a bike. Visitors can use the boat to connect communities around the bay and build a more scenic bike day without having to retrace the entire shoreline by road.
That makes a ferry ride a great option for visitors who want a bike-friendly outing that includes waterfront views, market stops, and time in multiple harbor towns.
Explore Petoskey, Harbor Springs, and Bay Harbor
One reason the ferry is such a strong fit for “things to do in Petoskey” searches is that it turns your day into more than one stop. Arrive in Petoskey, then use the ferry to continue to Harbor Springs or Bay Harbor for shopping, dining, waterfront walks, and a return ride at sunset.
These guides are a great place to start planning your day:
Start Your Petoskey Day on the Water
Book a sunset cruise, plan a bike-and-ferry outing, or reserve a private event on the water. Whether you are visiting Petoskey for a weekend or planning your full summer itinerary, we would love to welcome you aboard.
Why visitors love this experience
It combines sightseeing, transportation, waterfront views, and local charm in one outing. Instead of just seeing Petoskey from shore, you get to experience Little Traverse Bay the way it was meant to be seen — from the water.
Cruises and schedules are weather dependent, so be sure to check availability before planning your trip.