24 HOURS IN ELK RAPIDS

by ALEA WILKINS

How to explore this sweet shoreside village like a local.

Blink and you’ll unknowingly drive right past tiny Elk Rapids on US-31, missing its charming small-town quirks and sweeping coastal views. While there are plenty of fun ways to spend a day in this village squeezed between East Bay and Elk Lake, these are the can’t-miss stops according to a local. >

Superior education.

Superior location.

#4 Public STEM University in the Nation

At Michigan Technological University, innovation and adventure go hand-in-hand.

Tomorrow needs bold solutions. It needs passionate leaders who have the courage to try new things—and the skills to be successful. At Michigan’s flagship technological university, you can fulfill your sense of adventure in the lab and the great outdoors. Engineer a lunar rover for NASA specifically designed to provide power and wireless communication on the surface of the moon. Then, head out for a sunset paddleboard with friends. Find a superior education in a superior location, only at Michigan Tech.

mtu.edu/tomorrow

LEARN MORE

120+ undergraduate and graduate degree programs

TOP 20 in the nation with a median early career pay of $71,000

DON’T FORGET THE DOUGHNUTS

Mornings in Elk Rapids begin with the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting downtown thanks to The Flour Pot. This itty-bitty storefront doesn’t have space for tables, but is stacked with old-fashioned glass cases of doughnuts, cookies, coffee cakes, turnovers and more delights. When it comes to doughnuts, there’s no wrong choice. Flavors range from classics like glazed and nutty to Fruity Pebbles and s’mores. Pro tip: If you like to sleep in, place your order over the phone the night before to ensure you get the goods—they sell out fast.

Discover Paradise

Between East Grand Traverse Bay, Elk River and Elk Lake, there’s no shortage of waterfront hangouts. While Memorial Park’s downtown location and playground make it a popular spot for families, those looking for a quieter beach day should drive seven minutes north to WilcoxPalmer-Shah Nature Preserve. Walk the short nature trail to find a secluded sandy shoreline along East Bay.

Fuel Up

When midday hunger hits, grab a bite from The Dam Shop at the Elk Rapids Marina. The Dam’s food truck slings a variety of good eats, from falafel wraps layered with toum and pickled carrots to crispy chicken tacos doused in sweet chili sauce and slaw. Inside, find a pro shop, coffee shop, deli with grab-and-go items for boaters and beachgoers, and a full bar.

Stroll Downtown

Even as the day winds down, there is plenty of buzz in town. Catch a movie at the Elk Rapids Cinema, an 80-year-old historic gem with a recently restored ceiling mural. Shop at Golden Hill Farms, a home and garden store with a fab selection of plants, and browse books and gifts at Word Love Goods. On Wednesdays, partake in a favorite weekly summer tradition, “Evenings on River Street,” when concession stands from local businesses line the main strip with food, live music, crafts and more family fun.

Make A Date For Sunset

Nothing beats grabbing a box of pizza and heading out to watch the sunset (Elk Rapids Day Park is a great spot to spread out a picnic blanket). Everyone knows the pesto at Chef Chucks on River Street is primo. We suggest ordering “The Chef Charles” with that famous pesto, feta, artichoke hearts, fresh garlic, kalamata olives and toasted pine nuts all atop a sesame crust.

Jewelers