The community of Petoskey was founded by Chief Ignatius Petosega, an Odawa (Ottawa) Native American. In the Odawa language, the name “Petoskey” means “where the light shines through the clouds” – a fitting name for this beautiful coastal resort community! Situated on the southeast shore of the Little Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Bear River, this scenic and charming city has been a popular year-round vacation destination for more than a century. It is easy to understand why this area attracts so many visitors – the number of fun, exciting, and interesting activities is seemingly endless! Outdoor enthusiasts have an abundance of opportunities for enjoying themselves – recreational activities include swimming, boating, fishing, biking, hiking, golfing, tennis, birding, camping, tubing, sledding, cross-country skiing, and the Midwest’s best downhill skiing! Petoskey State Park is situated on 303 scenic acres and features a lovely sandy beach on the bay and two campgrounds.
The Historic Gaslight District is a very quaint and charming part of the city that offers Victorian architecture, authentic gaslights lining the streets, fine dining, and unique boutiques, specialty stores, and art galleries that invite visitors to browse and find treasures! The Little Traverse Historical Museum, which is open from May through October, is a great way to take a fascinating step back in time, and the Crooked Tree Arts Center is a cultural gem that is dedicated to the visual and performing arts. The Odawa Casino is a fun place to try your luck, and the annual Emmet-Charlevoix County Fair is fun for the entire family! With so much to do and see, it’s no wonder why people return to Petoskey year after year – including Ernest Hemingway, who spent his childhood summer on nearby Walloon Lake! Embrace all there is to do in the dynamic city of Petoskey! Hotels allow you to stay conveniently close to where you want to be. When you stay at Choice Hotels, you enjoy affordable rates, many amenities, and friendly service. We look forward to hosting you soon! Reserve your room today!