If You’re Lucky, You’ll Find Yourself in Elk Rapids
Downtown Elk Rapids - Melody VanderWeide
By Melody VanderWeide
If you're lucky enough to spend time in Elk Rapids, Michigan, you're in for a treat. Tucked between Grand Traverse Bay and Elk Lake, this small town holds a special place in my heart that goes beyond its beachy vibes.
Growing up in Traverse City, I spent a lot of time here, marking the years with each Harbor Days Parade. My parents were Elk Rapids High School sweethearts, and my grandparents lived on Bridge Street while the others were on Birch Lake. One or the other often had our car in the drive.
Today, I count myself beyond lucky to have a place in the village, and sharing what's special about this place is my pleasure.
Stroll River Street in Downtown Elk Rapids, Especially on Wednesday Night
If you’re lucky, you’ll get to stroll down River Street, the main drag of downtown Elk Rapids.
Lined with restaurants, shops, and even an old Art Deco movie theater, this street is simply charming.
Open a door, and you might find kids’ toys at Corner Drugs, unique gifts at Nifty Things, and perfect handmade donuts at the Flour Pot bakery.
And, on summer Wednesday nights, Evenings on River Street brings live music, restaurant specials, and family fun to the heart of town.
ER’s Splendid Beaches & Parks
Elk Rapids beaches hold their own when stacked up against Northern Michigan's incredible beaches. If you’re lucky, you’ll spend time swimming at Veterans Memorial Park. I played and swam here as a kid, and now my kids do the same.
Just a short walk from downtown, this park has a playground, picnic areas, and an expansive sandy beach that's perfect for soaking up the sun or floating down the short lazy river.
Nearby, Elk Rapids Day Park, with its art sculptures and walking trails, offers a more secluded and beautiful beach along Grand Traverse Bay, perfect for hunting Petoskey stones.
For a quick dip and a gorgeous sunset, head to the small but magnificent Old Bathing Beach.
Motor or Not, You'll Want to Float or Boat in Elk Rapids
Getting Out on the Water
If you love paddling, Elk Rapids is your lucky paradise. The Chain of Lakes Water Trail, a state-designated trail spanning over 100 miles, ends in Elk Rapids and features 84 signed water access sites. Paddle Antrim, a nonprofit anchored in downtown Elk Rapids, hosts events and classes all season long, making it easy to explore the waterways.
We like to put in for a paddle at Rotary Park, where you’ll glide over stumps and logs in crystal-clear waters that have stories to tell.
If motor boating or sailing is your thing, Elk Rapids is for you, too.
The well-heeled Grace Memorial Harbor has 200 slips, a shopping dock for daytime visits, and amenities like laundry, BBQ grills, fuel, and showers.
For a more laid-back vibe, Elk Rapids Marina offers pontoon boat rentals, lawn games, and delicious food truck fare at the Dam Shop.
Elk Rapids Harbor Days: The Highlight of Summer
If you’re lucky, you’ll visit Elk Rapids during the community's crown jewel: Harbor Days.
This year, the festival runs from July 31 to August 3, 2024. It's a four-day celebration packed with a parade, a carnival, live music, arts and crafts, and fireworks.
I love Harbor Days because the community's fun, work-together spirit is what makes this event tick. From the Harbor Run to the boat lighting contest, Harbor Days captures the true spirit of Elk Rapids.
Discover More in Elk Rapids
Yes, Elk Rapids is small, so it might surprise you that the dining options are destinations in themselves.
If you’re lucky, you’ll grab some jalapeno bread at Pearl's, a craft cocktail and burger at Foundry Craft Grillery, a pizza pie from Chef Charles, a glorious IPA at Short’s Pull Barn, or a sandwich and fries at the Town Club.
The Dam Shop is where you go for adult slushies, grab-n-go bites, drinks for the boat, food truck eats, and lawn games.
Townline Ciderworks tasting room does not disappoint and is happily right next door to a fabulous farm stand.
Beyond food, boating, shops, and beaches, art and culture are another reason Elk Rapids is on the map.
Antique shops, art galleries like Twisted Fish Gallery, and the Elk Rapids Library, which offers workshops and exhibits, are all worth exploring. The Elk Rapids Golf Course is perfect for a quick round, and Myrtle and Maude’s has farm animals to visit alongside Michigan goods and vintage finds.
Hope to See You Soon!
If you’re lucky enough to spend time in Elk Rapids, you’ll quickly see why this little town is so special. From its charming downtown to its beautiful beaches and parks, Elk Rapids is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
But don’t just take my word for it. Visit for yourself and experience the relaxed pace and down-to-earth vibe of a community that takes care of each other, their surroundings, and those who happen by.
When you do stop by, please join us in keeping the community spirit alive by respecting Elk Rapids’ natural spaces and community places. Thank you, and see you soon!
About the Author
Melody VanderWeide, a Traverse City native, is the proud owner of HeyMichigan, HeyGrand Rapids, and GRKids.com. Growing up, she spent her summers running around Elk Rapids. Since 2009, she's been an online publisher chasing down all the quirky, unique things that make Michigan, Michigan. As a mom of three, she knows a thing or two about family fun. When she's not managing her sites, you'll find her kayaking the Chain of Lakes or soaking up Michigan with her family.