Northern Michigan Adventure Guide: Can't-Miss Experiences November 14–16, 2025

Ready to escape to Pure Michigan’s crown jewel? Northern Michigan offers jaw-dropping fall colors, cozy small towns, and adventures that’ll make you fall in love with the Great Lakes State all over again. Join Michigan Spots as we explore the absolute must-do experiences for November 14–16:

1. Traverse City Film Festival: Holiday Classics

Kick off your weekend with the TC Film Festival’s special Holiday Classics series running Friday through Sunday. The historic State Theatre is screening beloved films with special Q&As, themed cocktails, and that unbeatable small-town theater charm.

Perfect for couples or film buffs!

2. Petoskey Stone Hunting at Fisherman’s Island

November is prime time for finding Michigan’s state stone along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Fisherman’s Island State Park near Charlevoix offers miles of pristine beach with excellent petoskey stone hunting.

Bring a bucket, dress warm, and prepare for a meditative morning of beachcombing. Complete this Michigan Spots challenge and earn points for your discovery!

3. Boyne Mountain Early Season Skiing

Yes, it’s happening! Boyne Mountain is firing up the slopes for early-season skiing and snowboarding. With snowmaking in full swing, you can carve fresh tracks while most of the Midwest is still waiting for winter.

Night skiing runs Friday and Saturday until 9 PM—absolutely magical under the lights.

4. Mackinac Island Holiday Shopping Weekend

Take the ferry to Mackinac Island for their annual Holiday Shopping Weekend. Downtown shops stay open late with hot cocoa, live music, and exclusive holiday deals.

No cars, fresh fudge, and Victorian charm—it’s like stepping into a snow globe. Ferries run all weekend despite the cold!

5. Sleeping Bear Dunes Winter Hiking

Beat the crowds! November at Sleeping Bear Dunes means stunning views without summer traffic. The Dune Climb is dramatically different with autumn colors and Lake Michigan waves.

Empire Bluff Trail offers panoramic views that’ll take your breath away (and make for incredible Instagram shots). Check out our other Michigan adventure guides for more hiking inspiration!

6. Suttons Bay Wine Trail

Warm up with a wine tasting tour along the Leelanau Peninsula. Suttons Bay’s wineries offer cozy tasting rooms, award-winning wines, and breathtaking bay views.

Many offer live music on weekends—pair your Riesling with a local cheese board and you’ve found paradise.

7. Downtown Petoskey’s Gaslight Shopping District

Petoskey’s charming Gaslight District is decked out for the holidays! Browse boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes in one of Michigan’s most walkable downtowns.

Stop by Symons General Store (a Michigan institution since 1880) and grab lunch at Roast & Toast.

How To Find More

Check out Traverse City Tourism, Pure Michigan, Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau, and Mackinac Island Tourism for even more weekend activities. From wine trails to ski slopes to fossil hunting—Northern Michigan delivers year-round adventure.

Share Your Weekend!

Did you discover a hidden gem in Northern Michigan? Find an amazing petoskey stone? Catch the perfect sunset at Sleeping Bear? Tag @MichiganSpots on social media or share in the comments—we love featuring community discoveries and awarding points for verified visits!

Planning Tip: Northern Michigan restaurants book up fast on weekends. Make dinner reservations now, especially in Traverse City and Petoskey. Most places accept OpenTable or call-ahead reservations.

Weather Check: November in Northern Michigan averages 35-45°F during the day. Layer up, bring waterproof boots, and pack extra warm clothes. Lake-effect weather can change quickly!