The Elk Rapids and Kewadin area sits at the crossroads of Northern Michigan's most beautiful inland lakes and Grand Traverse Bay. This charming village offers the perfect mix of waterfront relaxation, local dining, and small-town hospitality—all within easy reach of wine country and outdoor adventures.

We recommend planning at least one evening in downtown Elk Rapids. Grab a coffee and pastry from The DAM Shop, stroll the shops along River Street, then settle in for dinner at Cellar 152 or Riverwalk Grill with views of the water. Traveling with kids? The Day Park Beach has a playground and sculptures in the woods—pair it with ice cream from downtown for an easy, memorable evening.

Eat

Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen $$
Elk Rapids
Cajun and Creole classics—gumbo, po'boys, beignets—in a colorful downtown setting. Popular for brunch.

Riverwalk Grill $$/$$$
Elk Rapids
Casual American fare with a deck overlooking the river. Great spot for burgers, fish tacos, and sunset drinks. Boat right up!

Town Club $
Downtown Elk Rapids
Hearty comfort food, full bar, and a friendly locals' vibe.

Cellar 152 $$/$$$
Downtown Elk Rapids
Farm-forward seasonal menu with creative small plates and a carefully curated wine list.

Masala Magic by Anita $$
Elk Rapids
Delicious authentic Indian cuisine. Perfect for lunch or dinner.

Torch Lake Café $
Eastport (top of Torch Lake)
Homestyle breakfast and lunch—hearty portions, friendly service, cash or check only. Great live music calendar.

Drink

Ethanology $$/$$$
Elk Rapids
Unique distillery with locally sourced, hand-crafted cocktails. High-end industrial vibe, perfect for warm summer nights (or cozy winter ones!)

Riverwalk Grill $$/$$$
Elk Rapids
Also a solid spot for after-dinner drinks with a gorgeous riverside view. Boat right up!

The DAM Shop $$
Downtown Elk Rapids
Open late enough for an evening espresso or a casual glass of wine.

Bos Wine $$
Downtown Elk Rapids
Locally grown and sourced wine in a cute farmhouse (and backyard patio).

WaterFire Vineyards $$
Just north of Elk Rapids
Cozy tasting room with gorgeous vineyard views and a great summer music line-up.

Day-Trip: Old Mission & Leelanau Peninsulas (15–30 min drive)
Elk Rapids is near both wine regions. Chateau Chantal, Bonobo, Black Star Farms, and Aurora are all an easy, beautiful 30-40 min drive.

Coffee

The DAM Shop $$
Downtown Elk Rapids
A local favorite right on the dam. Fresh-roasted coffee, espresso drinks, house-made baked goods, and a sunny patio overlooking the water. Great for breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

Happy Camper $
Elk Rapids
Cozy riverfront coffee shop with a variety of pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and antique furniture.

Michigander Bakery & Coffee $
Downtown Elk Rapids
Delicious bakery and local coffee business! Enjoy down at the beach or at their outdoor picnic tables.

Adventure

Elk Rapids Day Park Beach
Downtown Elk Rapids
Sandy swimming beach on East Grand Traverse Bay with a playground, picnic tables, and restrooms. Great short hikes through sculptures in the woods and beach. Walk to downtown shops and ice cream afterward.

Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor Park
Elk Rapids
Small waterfront park at the marina—great for watching boats, fishing off the pier, or catching a sunset.

Torch Lake (South End Sandbar)
Kewadin / Rapid City
Michigan's famous Caribbean-blue lake. The south-end sandbar (accessible by boat) is a summer gathering spot; public access points are nearby on the Kewadin side.

Elk Lake Beach Access
Kewadin
Quieter shores on Elk Lake—ideal for paddleboarding, kayaking, or a peaceful swim away from the crowds.

Maple Bay Natural Area
Williamsburg (just south of Elk Rapids)
Create your own loops and hiking lengths. Go through a meadow or the forest. Rockhunt on Lake Michigan by various beach access points.

Glacial Hills Pathway
Just south of Elk Rapids
7+ miles of wooded trails winding through rolling glacial terrain. Loops range from easy 2-mile walks to longer backcountry hikes. Mountain biking and cross-country skiing in season.

Chain of Lakes Water Trail
Elk Lake / Torch Lake
Paddle the connected chain of 14 inland lakes. Launch from Elk Lake or Torch Lake and explore by kayak or canoe.

Elk Rapids Municipal Marina
Downtown Elk Rapids
Full-service harbor with transient slips, fuel dock, pump-out station, and walking-distance access to shops and restaurants. Reserve ahead in peak season.

Elk Lake & Torch Lake Boat Launches
Kewadin area
Public ramps provide easy access for pontoons, fishing boats, and jet skis on both lakes.

Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals
Various locations
Several local outfitters rent kayaks, SUPs, and canoes by the hour or day—ask for current recommendations.

Shopping

Downtown Elk Rapids Shops
River Street
Stroll the walkable downtown strip for boutiques, vintage finds, and locally made gifts. Highlights include home décor stores and a year-round Christmas shop.

Wilson Antiques
Acme or Traverse City (two locations 10-25 min)
Worth the drive(s) - downtown TC location has four floors of vintage furniture, estate jewelry, and one-of-a-kind curiosities.