Food & Beverage

Dine Alfresco in Gaylord, Michigan

Jul 02, 2024 / maddendev

Outdoor dining has been on the rise in recent years and is more popular than ever this summer! While we already had a myriad of notable patios to choose from in Gaylord, Michigan, many of our dining partners have expanded their outdoor spaces even more. We can’t possibly list them all, but here are a few of our favorite alfresco eateries: Alpine Tavern & Eatery Alpine Tavern takes the cake for originality with one of the most variable dining experiences offered in our Alpine Village. Saddle up to the tiki bar, enjoy basking in the sun or select your seating under the portico. You'll also find a selection of outdoor games including cornhole available for your enjoyment. MORE

7 Reasons to Visit Gaylord, MI this Summer

Jun 03, 2024 / maddendev

There’s no question about it…Northern Michigan summers are pure bliss. If you haven’t experienced one yet, it’s high time to head to Gaylord, Michigan to see what all the fuss is about! So what does the “Alpine Village” have in store for you? Biking Gaylord is recognized as a top biking destination! The scene here is diverse, from picturesque paved routes to undulating single tracks at Aspen Park, Shingle Mill Pathway and Pine Baron Pathway to the crown jewel of all trails – the North Central State Trail.  Newly expanded and now running 73 miles from Waters all the way to Mackinaw City, this former railroad line is covered with a crushed limestone surface. Perfect for families out for an afternoon ride or experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the North Central State Trail meanders through some of the loveliest countryside in Northern Michigan. Check out the new Gaylord Gateway Trailhead conveniently located downtown! If you’re more of an adrenaline junkie, then you won’t want to miss the 82-mile High Country Pathway. Located in the heart of the Pigeon River Country State Forest, this extensive and rustic trail is recognized as having “Epic” status by the International Mountain Bike Association.  Hiking If you lack pedal power but still want to hit the trails, hiking is the way to go! Spend a leisurely afternoon weaving through the trails at Aspen Park. With rolling hills, open fields, plentiful wildlife and a quaint pond, you can lose track of time on these paved and unpaved trails. Those looking for an all-day excursion or even a weekend of backpacking can head for the Jordan Valley Pathway, an 18.8-mile loop with a rustic campground at the halfway point. Be ready for stunning vistas, high ridges and skirting along the banks of the striking Jordan River. If you’re limited on time, venture out on the Deadman’s Hill Loop for a 3-mile taste of this exceptional trail.  Ready to visit?  Request your free Visitor’s Guide here!   Elk Viewing While you’re out enjoying Gaylord’s plentiful trail systems, keep your eyes peeled to catch a glimpse of one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi. The Pigeon River Country State Forest is home to a herd of over 1,000 of these magnificent animals, and while they are always on the go, there are popular viewing areas they frequent. Exploring Pigeon River country is a great escape, but your schedule may not allow you to spend a day searching for elk. For a guaranteed sighting, head to the City Elk Park, just a few blocks from the downtown district. The City of Gaylord maintains this herd of over 30 animals and they are known for greeting visitors right at the fence. MORE

Cheers to Beer

Apr 01, 2024 / maddendev

Grab your friends and celebrate your love for suds! While beer itself has been a popular drink for ages, trendy craft beers and microbrews have been taking over in recent years, offering a plethora of flavor combinations never before imagined. The craze has struck Gaylord full force, and you can make your way through our extensive lineup of restaurants to sample what the Alpine Village has to offer! MORE

Five Really Cool Things To Do In Gaylord, Michigan This Winter

Nov 09, 2023 / maddendev

By Paul Beachnau - So winter is here and your normal outdoor routine is shelved. It is cold and there is snow and you’re just not crazy about it. There are many of us crazy folks that LOVE winter. MORE

7 Unexpected Reasons to Visit Gaylord, Michigan

Feb 16, 2022 / maddendev

Is it time to start planning your next Michigan vacation?  In a state overflowing with sparkling lakes, clear rivers, untamed wilderness, an assortment of themed festivals, unique attractions and unending charm around every turn, choosing just one location can be a daunting task.  We’re here to help you narrow down your search.  Set your compass for Gaylord, Michigan and find everything you’ve been looking for! Plan your next trip with our free Visitor’s Guide If you’ve done your research, then you already know a little about us.  Sitting smack dab on the 45th parallel, Gaylord is (quite lovingly and literally) the heart of the northern Lower Peninsula.  Easy access off I-75 makes getting here a pinch, and once you’ve arrived, we’re quite sure you’ll never want to leave.  An outdoor lover’s paradise, our four seasons each offer distinct recreational opportunities for visitors of any age, ability and thrill-seeking level!  The best part?  While we exude the rustic up north charm you’ve been searching for, our community is filled with all the comforts you desire – shopping, restaurants, spas and resorts. MORE

Top 4 Gaylord, Michigan Souvenirs

Nov 12, 2019 / maddendev

By Christy Walcott We all know memories are the greatest souvenir from any vacation.  But what about the nifty gifties you surprise someone back home with?  Or the special little embellishments you add to your home as a reminder of the place miles away but now near and dear to your heart? You’re in charge of creating your own memories, but we’ve compiled a list of 5 fantastic trinkets or tidbits you need to pack in your suitcase before leaving Gaylord, Michigan: 1 – ANYTHING and I mean ANYTHING from the Alpine Chocolat Haus   After sampling their sweets, nothing else will come close to the delightful delicacies you will find in Gaylord’s locally owned and operated candy store.  While their chocolate-covered potato chips are an all-time favorite, think about branching out slightly and trying their “elk patties” – an homage to our famous elk herd. MORE

Live Here, Play Here

Aug 20, 2018 / maddendev

By Christy Walcott Gaylord is my hometown and while I do enjoy venturing out and seeing what other communities have to offer, it goes without saying that my heart is always at home.  I make it a priority to take some time off during our perfect northern Michigan summers, but instead of venturing north, south, east or west, I have found my happy place with the “staycation.” I realized that my staycation would make a pretty awesome vacation for someone visiting the Gaylord area, so I thought I would give you a rundown of what makes Gaylord THE best place to visit! Day 1 – Just take it all in Most vacations start out with a day where you treat yourself to some casual exploration, and even though I’ve lived here for my entire life, I can still spend a day rediscovering Gaylord. MORE