Our Favorite local spots
Golf Cart Rentals
Z's Golf Carts
Z’s Cart Rentals offers convenient and affordable luxury golf cart rentals, making it easy to explore downtown Manistee, local beaches, parks, shops, and waterfront attractions at your own pace. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or a family vacation, their comfortable carts provide a fun and unique way to experience everything Manistee has to offer.
Fishing Charter
Rippin' Drag Charters
Experience the best of Manistee from the water with guided fishing trips targeting salmon, steelhead, trout, and walleye. Perfect for families and fishing enthusiasts, Rippin Drag Charters offers memorable adventures on Lake Michigan and the scenic Manistee River.
Local Coffee Spot
Port City Brew
Start your morning at Port City Brew, a locally owned downtown coffee shop serving handcrafted coffee, espresso drinks, teas, smoothies, and sweet treats in the heart of Manistee. Whether you're grabbing a quick drink before heading to the beach or relaxing while exploring downtown, it's the perfect spot to experience the welcoming charm of our lakeshore community.
Local Breakfast Spot
Chef Jared and Co
Located in the heart of Manistee, Chef Jared & Company offers delicious scratch-made breakfast and lunch options featuring local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Whether you're dining in or looking for a private chef experience during your stay, Chef Jared delivers a memorable taste of Northern Michigan hospitality.
Best Beach
First Street Beach
Just minutes from downtown, First Street Beach & Douglas Park features one of Michigan's most beautiful Lake Michigan shorelines, complete with playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, and stunning sunset views. It's a must-visit spot for beach days, family fun, and enjoying the best of Manistee's waterfront.
Best Trail Spot
Lake Bluff farms
Just north of downtown Manistee, Lake Bluff Farms offers peaceful trails, stunning Lake Michigan views, and the opportunity to see the largest Giant Sequoia east of the Rocky Mountains. This historic lakeside preserve is a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to experience one of Michigan's most remarkable trees.
Best Place to experience
Wander In
Located on the Manistee Lake waterfront, Wander In combines fresh, locally inspired cuisine with stunning waterfront views and a family-friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy delicious meals, seasonal cocktails, live music, and a memorable lakeside experience just minutes from downtown Manistee.
Best Burger Spot
The outsider
Looking for a fun and unique dining experience in downtown Manistee? Visit The Outsider, a local favorite known for award-winning smash burgers, crispy fries, handcrafted cocktails, and one of the area's largest pinball arcades. With a spacious outdoor patio in the heart of Manistee's Social District, it's the perfect spot for families, friends, and visitors looking to enjoy great food and a memorable night out.
Best Golfing Spot
Manistee Country Club
Perched high above the Lake Michigan shoreline, Manistee Golf & Country Club offers one of Northern Michigan's most scenic golfing experiences. Established in 1901, this historic 18-hole course features breathtaking lake views, a challenging yet enjoyable layout for all skill levels, and on-site dining overlooking the beautiful Manistee waterfront.
Golf Course
Arcadia bluffs golf and dining
Perched high above the shores of Lake Michigan, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club is one of Michigan’s most celebrated golf destinations. Known for its breathtaking lake views, world-class championship golf courses, exceptional dining, and scenic walking trails, Arcadia Bluffs offers an unforgettable experience for golfers and visitors alike. Whether you're enjoying a round of golf, dining with panoramic views of Lake Michigan, or simply taking in the stunning sunsets, Arcadia Bluffs is a must-visit destination along Michigan's beautiful coastline.
Fine Dining
Blue Fish kitchen + bar
Located along the Manistee River in downtown Manistee, Blue Fish Kitchen + Bar offers an upscale yet welcoming dining experience featuring Great Lakes fish, locally sourced meats, fresh produce, and chef-driven farm-to-table cuisine. Set inside a beautifully restored historic building with riverfront patio seating, craft cocktails, an extensive wine list, and stunning waterfront views, Blue Fish is a favorite destination for both visitors and locals seeking an unforgettable meal.
Local Golf
Manistee national golf & resort
Nestled among the pines of the Manistee National Forest, Manistee National Golf & Resort is a premier Northern Michigan destination offering 45 holes of championship golf, comfortable on-site lodging, dining, and year-round recreation. With two distinct 18-hole courses, a family-friendly short course, practice facilities, and stay-and-play packages, it's the perfect getaway for golfers, couples, families, and groups looking to experience the beauty of Manistee County.
Beach Glass & Petoskey stone finds
Magoon creek
A hidden gem along Lake Michigan, Magoon Creek Natural Area offers peaceful beaches, scenic hiking trails, towering dunes, and breathtaking bluff-top views just north of Manistee. This 97-acre natural area is perfect for hiking, picnicking, rock hunting, beachcombing, and enjoying a quieter stretch of shoreline away from the crowds.
Beach Glass Finds
Sundling Park
The Manistee River Water Trail is one of Northern Michigan’s premier outdoor destinations, offering scenic paddling, fishing, wildlife viewing, and access to miles of pristine forest along the beautiful Manistee River. Whether you're kayaking, canoeing, tubing, or simply enjoying the peaceful river views, this nationally recognized water trail provides an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of Manistee County.
**We are not partnered with these businesses. We are simply sharing our love of the local spots we love in Manistee, MI