Perfect Petoskey Fall Color Tour

Fall in northern Michigan is something special. There’s a crispness in the air, the leaves turn every shade of gold, red, and orange, and the whole world seems to slow down just enough for you to really soak it in. One of my favorite ways to celebrate the season is by taking a fall color tour around Petoskey. It’s the perfect mix of stunning scenery, cozy stops, and of course, a few great wineries and breweries to warm up along the way.

Starting the Journey: Walloon Lake Winery

The adventure begins at Walloon Lake Winery, tucked just a short drive from Petoskey. Walloon Lake is such a peaceful area, and this winery fits right into that vibe. Their vineyard is surrounded by rolling hills that, in the fall, are painted in deep reds and golds. It’s the perfect spot to grab a glass of wine and just take in the view. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time, but once you’re feeling refreshed, it’s time to move on to the next stop.

A Quirky Stop: Burnt Marshmallow Brewstillery & Rudbeckia Winery

This one’s a bit off the beaten path, but Burnt Marshmallow Brewstillery & Rudbeckia Winery is well worth the detour. This spot is a blend of a brewery, winery, and distillery, so there’s something for everyone. The name alone drew us in, but the vibe kept us there—it’s quirky, laid-back, and feels like you’ve discovered a local secret. The tasting room is cozy, and they even have bonfires going in the fall, so you can sit outside, sip on something tasty, and enjoy the cool air. And the views from the property during the fall are stunning.

Mackinaw Trail Winery & Brewery

Next up is Mackinaw Trail Winery & Brewery, which is not too far. This place is a fantastic combo if you’re in the mood for both wine and beer. Their tasting room is warm and welcoming, which makes it a great stop for a chilly fall afternoon. I love that you can try both wine and beer here, depending on what you’re feeling that day or who you are with.

Boyne Valley Vineyards: A Hidden Gem

Heading south toward Boyne City, you’ll find Boyne Valley Vineyards, a hidden gem nestled in the hills. This place feels a little more tucked away, which I love—it’s quiet, the staff is friendly, and the vineyard itself is gorgeous in the fall. The trees around the property light up with color, and you can grab a glass of wine and sit outside on their deck to take it all in. They even have a few resident farm animals, so if you’re lucky, you might get to meet a goat or two while you’re there!

A Craft Beer Break: Beards Brewery

Once you’ve had your fill of wine, it’s time for a craft beer break. Back in downtown Petoskey, Beards Brewery is a must-visit. This place has a fantastic location right on the bay, and in the fall, you can sit outside with a beer in hand while watching the last of the boats go by. Beards always has a great selection of brews, but in the fall, their seasonal beers are a real treat. The brewery’s vibe is casual and laid-back, making it a great place to hang out for a while.

Petoskey Brewing Co: A Local Favorite

No color tour around Petoskey would be complete without a stop at Petoskey Brewing Co. This place has some history—it’s housed in a building from the late 1800s that was originally a brewery, and they’ve kept the original charm while adding a great modern touch. 

Wrapping Up the Day

By the time we’ve hit all these spots, the sun is usually starting to dip, and the sky turns that soft golden-pink that only happens in northern Michigan. One of my favorite ways to wrap up the day is by heading back to the water—whether it’s Lake Michigan or Walloon Lake—and catching the sunset. There’s something about the way the light hits the fall leaves that just feels like the perfect end to a day spent exploring.

This color tour around Petoskey is about more than just the scenery (though the fall colors are definitely the star of the show). It’s about slowing down, sipping on local wine and beer, and really soaking in the season. Whether you’re a local or visiting the area, this drive and these stops will leave you with a full heart and maybe a few bottles to take home. Cheers to fall! 🍂🍷🍺