Gaylord, Mi Local Guidebook
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Downtown Gaylord
Gaylord, Michigan, is a treasure trove for tourists, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure, charming Alpine-themed culture, and year-round attractions. Known as the gateway to Northern Michigan, it’s surrounded by lush forests, pristine lakes, and picturesque trails perfect for hiking, biking, fishing, and snowmobiling. Gaylord’s City Elk Park is a must-see, allowing visitors to observe majestic elk up close. The town is a golfer’s paradise, home to world-class courses like those in the Gaylord Golf Mecca. For winter enthusiasts, Gaylord transforms into a snowy wonderland with excellent skiing and snowboarding at Treetops and Otsego resorts. The downtown area boasts cozy shops, breweries, and restaurants offering everything from local brews to gourmet meals. Nearby attractions like Hartwick Pines State Park and scenic drives to Petoskey or Mackinac Island make Gaylord a perfect base for exploring all that Northern Michigan has to offer.
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Places to Eat
Local Favorites:
Alpine Tavern & Eatery: Enjoy burgers, sandwiches, and great drinks. Visit their website
Big Buck Brewery: A rustic brewery serving craft beer and hearty meals. Check it out
The Bearded Dogg Lounge: Known for creative dishes and a warm, upscale vibe. See their menu
Pizza:
BC Pizza Gaylord: A local chain beloved for its wide variety of pizzas. Order online
Mama Leone’s Pizzeria: Authentic Italian pizza made fresh daily.
Breakfast & Coffee:
The Iron Pig Smokehouse: Try their breakfast menu featuring smoked meats. Learn more
Java Junction: A cozy coffee shop perfect for starting your day.
Desserts & Ice Cream:
Dairy Queen: A classic spot for soft serve and blizzards.
Mijo’s Ice Cream: A local gem with unique flavors and friendly service.
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Outdoor Adventures
Hiking & Trails:
Aspen Park: A beautiful park with paved and natural trails, perfect for hiking or biking. Explore here
Pigeon River Country State Forest: Offers miles of trails and elk viewing opportunities. Plan your visit
Fishing & Boating:
Otsego Lake State Park: A great spot for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. Details here
Big Lake: Perfect for anglers and boaters seeking a quieter setting.
Winter Fun:
Treetops Resort: Known for skiing, tubing, and other winter activities. Discover more
Otsego Resort: Offers skiing and snowboarding with stunning views. Learn more
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Local Attractions
Gaylord’s City Elk Park
View a large herd of elk in a natural enclosure—an iconic Gaylord experience. Find out moreCall of the Wild Museum
A family-friendly spot showcasing wildlife exhibits and a gift shop. Plan your visitGaylord Golf Mecca
Gaylord is home to some of Michigan’s best golf courses, including The Loon and The Ridge. Explore courses -
Places to Drink
Snowbelt Brewing Co.: Enjoy local craft beers in a relaxed setting. View their beer list
Tap Room 32: Great cocktails, local beers, and a laid-back vibe.
The Pine Squirrel Bar & Grill Known for its creative cocktails and friendly staff.
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Nearby Excursions
Hartwick Pines State Park
Known for its old-growth pine forest, this park is perfect for hiking and nature lovers. Learn moreBoyne Mountain Resort
Just a short drive away, Boyne offers year-round fun, from skiing to water parks. Visit BoynePetoskey
Explore this charming lakeside town with boutique shops, wineries, and stunning sunsets. Discover Petoskey -
Seasonal Activities
Spring & Summer: Enjoy lakes, trails, and local festivals.
Fall: The vibrant autumn colors are unmatched in Gaylord.
Winter: The Gaylord Fireside property is a winter enthusiast's dream, offering direct access to Northern Michigan’s renowned snowmobile trails.
Located in the heart of the action, this property allows you to step outside and hit the trails without the hassle of loading up your gear. Whether you're exploring the vast network of groomed pathways winding through Gaylord's stunning winter landscapes or venturing out to neighboring towns for an all-day snowmobiling adventure, the convenience and accessibility make it a top destination for riders.
After a day of high-speed fun, return to the cozy comforts of your Fireside lodging and relax, ready to do it all again tomorrow.
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Places to Golf
Boasting five distinct courses designed by renowned architects, including Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Tom Fazio, Treetops offers a diverse golfing experience set against rolling hills and scenic vistas.
Featuring three championship courses—The Loon, The Lakes, and The Ridge—this resort caters to golfers of all skill levels, complemented by on-site lodging and dining options.
Home to two PGA championship courses, The Classic and The Tribute, Otsego Resort provides challenging play amid picturesque landscapes.
Known for its impeccable conditions and classic layout, this 18-hole course offers a playable yet challenging experience for golfers seeking a traditional round.
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Places to Golf
Established in 1924, this semi-private club is one of Northern Michigan’s oldest, welcoming public play and offering a well-maintained course with a rich history.
Spanning 3,000 acres, Garland features four championship courses set in unspoiled wilderness, providing a serene backdrop for golfers.
An 18-hole public course designed by Rees Jones, Black Lake is acclaimed for its challenging layout and natural beauty.
Vanderbilt, MI
Offering a unique golfing experience, Black Bear combines a traditional course with modern design elements, suitable for all skill levels.
