Yes, Gaylord is the Golf Mecca of the Midwest. But if golf isn't your thing — or you're bringing along people who'd rather explore than putt — northern Michigan has an incredible range of activities for every season and every type of traveler. Here are 25 things to do near Gaylord that have nothing to do with a fairway.
Outdoor Adventures
1. Elk Viewing in Pigeon River Country — Northern Michigan is home to the largest free-roaming elk herd east of the Mississippi. The Pigeon River Country State Forest, about 20 minutes east of Gaylord, is your best bet. Dawn and dusk are prime viewing times.
2. Float the Sturgeon River — One of Michigan's premier trout streams. Rent a kayak or canoe and drift through unspoiled forest. It's peaceful, beautiful, and one of the more underrated outdoor experiences in the state.
3. Hike the Jordan River Pathway — An 18-mile loop through some of Michigan's most stunning river valley scenery. Day hikers can tackle sections; backpackers can overnight at designated sites.
4. Fish for trout — The rivers and lakes around Gaylord are loaded with brown trout, brook trout, and pike. Grab a Michigan fishing license and find your spot.
5. Hunt in season — Antrim, Otsego, and Charlevoix counties offer excellent deer hunting. The area is known for quality whitetail. Plan ahead and check DNR season dates.
6. Paddleboard or kayak Elk Lake — Just south of Torch Lake, Elk Lake is quieter, with stunning clear water and easy paddling conditions.
7. Bird watch at Graves Crossing — A favorite of birders, especially during spring and fall migration.
Seasonal Highlights
8. Boyne Mountain (winter/spring) — About 40 minutes west, Boyne Mountain offers 60+ ski runs, a terrain park, and a full resort village. One of Michigan's premier ski destinations.
9. Shanty Creek Resorts (winter) — Two connected ski areas near Bellaire with great variety and a fun après-ski scene.
10. Alpenfest (summer) — Gaylord's annual German-themed festival, usually held in July. Think lederhosen, brats, live music, and a lot of civic pride. It's been running for decades and it's genuinely fun.
11. See the fall colors from a kayak — Mid-October, paddle a river through peak color season. Impossible to beat.
12. Snowshoeing the state forest — Strap on snowshoes and wander quiet DNR land in winter. Free, peaceful, and highly underrated.
Day Trips
13. Mackinac Bridge — About an hour north. The "Mighty Mac" is one of the longest suspension bridges in the Western Hemisphere. Cross it for the experience; head into the UP for an adventure.
14. Mackinac Island — Take the ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace. No cars allowed on the island. It's a time-warp of Victorian architecture, fudge shops, and horse-drawn carriages.
15. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore — About 1.5 hours southwest. The dune climb, the overlooks, and the crystal-clear Lake Michigan water make this one of the most spectacular places in the Midwest.
16. Petoskey — A charming lakeside town known for Petoskey stones (Michigan's state stone), excellent restaurants, and a walkable gaslight district.
17. Charlevoix — Another lovely Lake Michigan town with a picturesque marina, great dining, and the famous Mushroom Houses designed by Earl Young.
Local Food and Drink
18. Elk & Oryx (Gaylord) — Upscale dining in an unexpected location. Great local ingredients, solid wine list.
19. Big Buck Brewery — Northern Michigan's original brewpub. Burgers, craft beer, and a rustic vibe.
20. The Gobbler — A Gaylord institution. Stick to the classics.
21. Pick up pasties — The UP influence means good pasties are not far. Try them from a local shop — they're hearty, portable, and perfect trail food.
Family-Friendly
22. Deadman's Hill Overlook — A short hike to one of the best panoramic views in the Lower Peninsula. Easy enough for kids, rewarding for everyone.
23. Call of the Wild Museum (Gaylord) — Taxidermy dioramas and Michigan wildlife displays. Kids love it.
24. Mini golf and go-karts — Yes, there are options. Perfect for a rainy afternoon with younger travelers.
25. Stargazing — Seriously. Drive 10 minutes from town, turn off the car, and look up. No light pollution. The Milky Way is genuinely visible on clear nights. It's one of those experiences that sneaks up on you.
Granny's Hideaway puts you in the center of all of this. Most of these activities are within 30–60 minutes — close enough to day-trip, far enough to feel like a true escape.