Chase the Colors | A Michigan Fall Vacation Guide

When the leaves begin to turn, and the air grows crisp, there’s no better place to be than Northern Michigan. Each autumn, the region transforms into a canvas of red, orange, and gold, making it one of the most beautiful times of year to visit. Whether you’re chasing fall colors, sipping local wine, or cozying up by the fire, a Northern Michigan fall vacation with Visit Up North Vacation Rentals delivers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Keep reading to discover some of our favorite ways to soak up the season.

6 Fall Activities to Add to Your Itinerary

From scenic drives that let you take in stunning fall foliage to harvest celebrations, there’s no shortage of things to do during a fall getaway to Northern Michigan.

1. Take a fall color tour along M-22 through the Leelanau Peninsula, or wind down M-37 on the Old Mission Peninsula. For unforgettable overlooks, drive the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive inside Sleeping Bear Dunes.
2. Spend a morning at a family farm like Jacob’s Farm in Traverse City, where you can pick apples and pumpkins, sip cider, and get lost in a corn maze.
3. Go wine tasting during harvest season. Sample cool-climate reds at Mari Vineyards on Old Mission Peninsula, or make a day of it along the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail.
4. Lace up your hiking boots for a trek through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The Empire Bluff Trail and Pyramid Point reward you with sweeping Lake Michigan views framed by golden foliage.
5. Stock up on the season’s best at the Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market in Traverse City, open through October, or catch a harvest.
6. Cast a line during the fall salmon run. Book a charter with a local outfit like Reel Fun Fishing Charters or Mega-Bite Fishing Charters to find the best spots on the bay and Lake Michigan.

Cozy Up at Your Northern Michigan Vacation Rental

There’s something special about returning to a warm, welcoming home after a day spent exploring. When you stay with Visit Up North, you’ll have the perfect home base to relax and recharge. Picture yourself curled up by the fireplace with a mug of hot cider, or watching the leaves fall from a private deck overlooking the water. Our rentals come with all the comforts of home, including fully equipped kitchens and spacious living areas, so you can settle in and truly enjoy the season. 

From forest-view cabins to lakefront cottages, our inventory of Northern Michigan vacation rentals has something for every kind of traveler. Call 231-922-8922 to speak with a member of our team and start planning your Northern Michigan fall vacation today.