Traveling Mindfully

Be Mindful & Enjoy the Journey

Month: June 2025

Stowe, VT – Exploring Autumn in the Green Mountains

By

On June 27, 2025

In Vermont

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Where to find Endless Mountains, Fall Leaves & Hot Apple Cider

Exploring Autumn in Stowe, Vermont is nothing short of magical. Stowe, is tucked between the valleys of the Green Mountains that make up Vermont. Stowe is a small picturesque town in northern Vermont that is known for skiing and tourism. One of the town’s main attractions is Mount Mansfield’s, which is also Vermont’s highest peak (1). Although, Stowe today ranks as on of the most popular ski destinations in New England and the United States, it has a lot more to offer than just ski slopes (1). Let’s go check out this charming tourist town tucked away in the Green Mountains, which is also known for its Fall Leaves & Hot Apple Cider.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Downtown Stowe, VT.

Downtown Stowe, VT. gets very busy. It was very difficult to find a parking spot and therefore we were not able to make a stop and walk around. Although, the downtown is small and quaint, we did notice many wonderful stores and restaurants that we will look for during our next visit. Moreover, the downtown offers sidewalks on all sides of the road making leisure walking at a mindful pace much more enjoyable.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Fun Fact

Stowe, VT. is known as the “Ski Capital of the East.” Stowe is the birthplace of alpine skiing in Vermont and home to the nation’s oldest ski patrol (1.)

Places to Explore

Gondola Skyride

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

My wife and I arrived on a typical brisk cloudy autumn day. The visibility was not great, but the atmosphere and the surrounding nature was exquisite. We started our day at the famous and probably more popular attraction, the Stowe Gondola Skyride.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

The Gondola Skyride is located at the base of Mount Mansfield. The Gondola ride will take you to the shoulder of the mountain near the peak. This drop point has various hiking trails, a gift shop, a restaurant, a snack shop that serves waffles, and a viewing platform. The top of the mountain was much colder than the base and we were literally inside a cloud when we departed the skyride. So, for anyone who has never traveled up a mountain, be prepared for drastic temperature drops and different climates.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

The Cliff House is situated at the top of the Gondola Skyride. The restaurant serves American cuisine with a rustic flair. The Cliff House is only accessible via the Gondola Skyride and is only open for lunch. Outside of the Cliff House restaurant are restrooms if needed. This is a vast contrast from the base as they only offer porta potties for your restroom needs. So, if you can hold it until you reach the top, we would recommend that.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Viewing Platform

The Viewing platform was a bit cold and cloudy, which obstructed most of the view. The day we went out was unfortunately a typical overcast autumn day which limited our viewing ability. We can only imagine what a clear day would be like. Maybe next time. Supposedly, the locals claim you can see parts of Lake Champlain from this height.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Located across from the gift shop, near the exit ramp is The Waffle. Here, they serve the frosty traveler a warm delicious waffle that can be topped with a choice of Vermont’s own maple syrup, or chocolate sauce. The Waffle is a grab and go establishment and dining would have to take place at some of the benches located outside the complex. The Waffle also offers various packaged snacks, and refreshments.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Belgium waffle with maple syrup

This would be a typical Belgium waffle or what is left of it. The waffle was softer and easy to break apart giving it more of a pastry composition. We ordered ours to be topped with maple syrup since this is Vermont and maple syrup is their specialty. The waffle was made to order, served hot, and was a nice compliment to a cold autumn day.

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PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl

The top station has many points of interest for relaxing and enjoying the alpine environment. One of those areas happened to be a row of Adirondack chairs that are positioned outside the Gondola top station near the cliff. Too bad it was cloudy because I am sure this view would have been breathtaking!

Restaurants & Shops

Stowe Bee Bakery & Café

1056 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

The Stowe Bee Bakery is a great bakery with a wide assortment of sandwiches, pastries, coffees, and other delicious treats. The ambience inside the bakery is relaxing, charming, and clean. They offer indoor and outdoor seating. The inside is filled with large windows letting in a lot of sunlight, giving it a bright and cheerful feel. The food is delicious and made with quality ingredients that are locally sourced, adding to the wholesomeness of the food.

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They also have a unique gift shop inside where you can buy some of Vermont’s world-renowned maple syrup along with other goodies. This place is a convenient stop as it is easy on and off from the main road, has a large parking lot for ease of parking and great food. This little spot meets all the qualifications of convenience and quality food.

Stowe Bee Bakery interior

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PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl

The dining room is airy, with lots of windows to let in the sunlight. The hardwood floors are polished and well maintained. Moreover, there is an abundance of lighting for the gloomier days, which makes for a nice year-round ambience.

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PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl

Throughout the bakery there are various cupboards, pictures, and other unique quirky items that add to the cozy appeal the bakery offers its patrons. Below are a few items we had for our lunch that we thought were exceptional.

Mt. Triple Grilled Panini

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

A delicious panini that has a generous portion of grilled chicken, local ham, Cabot white cheddar cheese, and a house made maple mustard. The sandwich was amazing and had that perfect crispy texture that only a perfectly grilled panini can give you.

Cinnamon Sugar Muffin

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
A delicious cinnamon sugar muffin that has a nice texture with a moist fluffy center. A great ending to a terrific lunch.
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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

This wall pretty much sums up the bakery’s motto and how they incorporate bees into their products. The food, ambience, and artistic approach this bakery takes is one that is genuinely unique and would add meaningful delight to any trip to Stowe, VT.

Cold Hollow Cider Mill

3600 Waterbury-Stowe-Rd
Waterbury Center, VT

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Cold Hollow Cider Mill is the essence of what Vermont is all about, hot apple cider, gift shops full of maple syrup, cider donuts and endless views of autumn-colored mountains. This magnificent cider mill has it all and will bring out the joy of autumn to anyone who ventures here. This unique working cider mill allows all patrons to see the inner workings of a real cider mill.

The cider mill showcases the process of creating apple cider. The mill presses raw cider on their vintage rack-and-cloth press machine, delivering a real Vermont McIntosh apple cider (2). Furthermore, the cider mill is also environmentally friendly by using solar power for powering most of the mill (2). They also recycle shipping boxes, and they no longer use polystyrene packing or GMO-modified ingredients (2).

The Cider Donut Process

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

The cider donuts are one of their biggest attractions and for a good reason. They are delicious! The donut is a cake donut that measures approximately 2.5 inches in diameter (2). The donuts are made fresh daily by their old fashion donut machine. The picture below gives you an idea of how the process works (2).

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
The mix is pushed out through a specialty donut shaping machine to the hot oil where it is cooked.
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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
After the donut has been cooked it is placed on a conveyor belt which allows the donut to dry and form the texture, we all know and love.
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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Finished product that is ready for consumption.

What I enjoyed about this donut is that there are no additives such as chocolate, frosting, or powdered sugar that would detract from the flavor. Instead, it is just a natural authentic cider donut. This famous donut goes great with a cup of warm apple cider.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
The final result was a freshly made cider donut with a cup of steaming hot apple cider.

The apple cider donut is a delicious cake donut that has a light crisp texture on the outside and a fluffy moist center. We would recommend you pick a few, especially if you can get them when they are freshly made. They also make a great road snack as well; your kids will thank you.

On the way to get your donuts, you will have the opportunity to get a cup of finished warm apple cider. The warm apple cider is a wonderful addition to a cold New England fall afternoon. This was the first time my wife and I tried authentic warm cider. I can honestly say there is nothing like it and this experience should not be missed. The apple cider will warm you up not only temperature wise but also with the spirit of autumn.

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Photo: Christopher Gradwohl

Throughout Cold Hollow Cider Mill complex there are several great places to sip on hot apple cider, eat a cider donut and enjoy the beautiful distant mountains. Every trip to Stowe, VT. should include a trip to Cold Hollow Cider Mill. This place has it all. The cider mill is extremely popular and usually draws large crowds, especially during the autumn months. Nevertheless, it is worth the crowded lines.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, Stowe, VT. is a great place to stop with plenty to see and do. This is a smaller town, so a few hours would be all that is necessary to experience what Stowe, VT. has to offer. Make sure to check the times of the Gondola Skyride as they change throughout the year. Also, getting an up-to-date weather report might reward you with some better views.


Stowe does offer a lot to do and many places of interest that would entertain the whole family. The next time you are in Vermont, I would recommend making a stop in Stowe, VT. as this small Vermont town is known for its endless mountains, fall leaves & hot apple cider. You will leave impressed and really get to see all the highlights that the lovely state of Vermont has to offer.

Autumn is a special time of year as it draws families near with warm kitchens, crisp breezes, and the beauty of the changing of the leaves, which gives the world a natural canvas of color. Make this upcoming Autumn season memorable with a trip to Stowe, VT. and enjoy the endless mountains, fall leaves & hot apple cider.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post. We hope you enjoyed the post as much as we did creating the post. Please feel free to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and subscribe to our YouTube channel

References

  1. Yankee, Staff. (2021). 5 Best Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont. New England Today Travel. https://newengland.com/today/travel/vermont/stowe/5-best-things-to-do-in-stowe-vt/#:~:text=Stowe%20is%20known%20as%20the,the%20nation’s%20oldest%20ski%20patrol.
  2. Legendary Cider Donut. (2022). Cold Hollow Cider Mill. https://coldhollow.com/collections/bakery/products/2-doz-cider-donuts

Copyright (2025) TravelingMindfully All Rights Reserved

Woodstock, VT – A Mindful Day Trip

By

On June 25, 2025

In Vermont

A Charming New England Town

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Photo: Christopher Gradwohl

Where to Find Covered Bridges, The Woodstock Inn, and a Picturesque Downtown

Woodstock is one of the most picturesque towns in Vermont. This charming New England town is not very large but does have a lot of history, nature, and a very enchanting downtown. There is a shallow creek that cuts through the downtown regions and flows off into the distant mountains providing a very tranquil feel to the area. The sidewalks are large for easy foot traffic and allow for a more mindful walk through the downtown. The town was built for pedestrians as there are plenty of crosswalks, and benches.

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Photo: Christopher Gradwohl

Woodstock was chartered in 1761 and settled in 1768 (4). In the recent years Woodstock has become a very popular tourist town due to its heritage in artisan culture and historic American charm (4). From the quaint downtown to the tree lined sidewalks, Woodstock will be sure to entice any mindful traveler.

Fun Fact

Woodstock was named “The Prettiest Small Town in America” by the Ladies Home Journal magazine. (5)

Where to Explore

Covered Bridge

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Middle Bridge Woodstock, VT

The Middle-Covered bridge is an idyllic wooden structure that gives insight to a bygone era in our history. This 139-foot-long bridge is a remarkable sight for anyone visiting Woodstock (1). This bridge really adds to the picturesque feel of Vermont and is a true statement to the New England heritage. The bridge was built in 1969 by Milton Grace to replace an 1877 iron bridge (1). Despite being built in the 20th century, it was still constructed using traditional methods such as material and even wooden pegs instead of nails (1).

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This covered bridge had a separate walkway for pedestrian traffic, which is wonderful because it really gives you a chance to look out at the river below and the vast mountains in the distance. The covered bridge is a sight to be seen and is the perfect spot for a photo opportunity. My wife and I were grateful to see such a renowned part of history.

Woodstock Inn

14 The Green

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
The Woodstock Inn front yard

In my opinion, the most famous Inn in all of Vermont would be the Woodstock Inn. This captivating Inn at the edge of the downtown district is one of distinction and beauty. From the perfectly manicured lawns to the authentic New England craftmanship, this Inn is an extraordinary experience for any traveler. The Woodstock Inn has been known for its epitome of luxury standards and has been rooted in the Woodstock community since the late 1790s.

Originally the Woodstock Inn was built as a tavern. The tavern has developed over time to the luxury hotel it is today (2). In 1830 an expert carver created a large golden eagle that was mounted above the Tavern’s entrance. The eagle symbol is still prevalent today as the Woodstock Inn’s brand identity (2).

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
The Woodstock Inn sign

Although we did not get the chance to stay at this Inn, it was absolutely stunning to see the hotel in the Autumn. We enjoyed a very peaceful and tranquil walk around the beautifully maintained grounds. This would definitely be one of those places that we will be adding to our bucket list of places to stay at and so should you. I hear Christmas is nothing short of magical.

Picturesque Downtown Shopping Woodstock, VT

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Downtown Woodstock, VT

Although the downtown is not very large, it is well appointed and has its own unique allure. The shopping district which would encompass most of the downtown area has many locally owned shops that offer many of Vermont’s unique merchandise. The products are mostly made in Vermont or nearby, making them very authentic and unique. The store fronts are well arranged, and each has their own story to tell. When my wife and I walked into a couple of the shops in search of an ornament for our Christmas tree, we were greeted by a cozy and warm atmosphere.

General Store

16 Elm Street

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

This charming General Store has been in the Woodstock community since 1886. Walking inside this store you are immediately transported back to a much simpler era with the smell of cedar wood and local timber permeating throughout the shop. The store has a little bit of everything. True to its roots it still serves local dairy, meats, cheeses and other various household goods. Also, if you find yourself in need of a greeting card or some bath products, you will find them here. My wife and I perused through the gift area and locally crafted baked goods. We found several items of interest that made for a delicious roadside snack.

Vermont Treats

Apple Cider Donuts

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Apple Cider Donuts is a delicious treat that completes any autumn day. The apple cider donut is a tasty treat and a pleasant surprise. Native to the Vermont and New England area this donut is the essence of apple cider, cinnamon and sugar married together to make the perfect autumn treat.

Pure Vermont Maple Candy 

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Pure Vermont Maple Candy is a Vermont tradition and favorite autumn candy. This unique candy is made with pure maple syrup (6). The syrup is stirred, cooled, and poured into a leaf shaped candy mold (6). The candy is pure maple syrup so it is very sweet and will most likely prompt you for seconds or as my uncle used to say, “that tastes like more”. Every visit to Vermont should include a box of these tasty treats.

My wife and I have also used candies for our oatmeal. We make a bowl of oatmeal and when it is finished and at its hottest point, we simply drop one of the candies into the oatmeal and stir it around. The maple candy really adds a wonderful sweetener and maple flavor to the oatmeal. This is just a nice unique sweetener to liven up breakfast or take you down memory lane of your New England autumn trip.

Maple Creemee

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Maple Creemee in a waffle cone

The Maple Creemee is another one of Vermont’s famous treats. A maple Creemee is a soft serve ice cream that is infused with maple syrup. This classic taste of Vermont is one of the best soft served flavors of ice cream that my wife and I have ever experienced. If you add Vermont’s abundance of dairy farms you will see why ice cream is such a big deal in this part of the country. When it comes to ice cream, the fresher the dairy, the better it will taste, and Vermont has the Diary.

Woodstock Scoops

20 Central Street

Woodstock Scoops has a great Maple Creemee that should be tried when visiting the region. They offer soft serve ice cream that is flavored with maple syrup. Their milk is provided by a local dairy farm down the road, so they do have that creamier texture that we all know and love about good ice cream.

Architecture

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Most New England towns that were built during the colonial times, such as Woodstock are famous for their architecture. Along the river and main road are several homes and buildings including the courthouse, library and other public structures that showcase the architectural splendor that the 18th and 19th century had to offer. The following are a few of them.

The Windsor County Court House

12 The Green

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Windsor County Court House

This beautiful building is a wonderful structure to photograph as it brings a lot of colonial distinction and charm. This is the typical New England architecture that defines and adds to the loveliness of the town of Woodstock.

Norman Williams Public Library

10 The Green

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Norman Williams Public Library entrance

This magnificent piece of architecture was built in 1884 and has housed and served as the town public library for Woodstock (3). The Norman Williams library is a modern facility that provides the best contemporary library services to the greater Woodstock area (3). We found this library to be an architectural marvel. The building was designed perfectly facing the famous Woodstock Green.

Nature

Kedron Brook

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
The Kedron brook is a shallow stream that cuts through the landscape creating a beautiful backdrop of color and ambience.

A quiet peaceful bubbling brook that gently flows through the downtown of Woodstock and eventually into the Ottauquechee River. The calmly flowing stream is a wonderful place to sit next to and have a picnic or a Creemee. This stream was very picturesque, and the water was crystal clear.

Ottauquechee River

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
The Ottauquechee River

The Ottauquechee River is a 41-mile-long river in eastern Vermont. The source of the river is from the runoff of the Green Mountains and flows south eastwardly to the Connecticut River. This is a popular river to kayak or canoe during the summer months or hike in the Autumn months. Moreover, this charming river has numerous spots for picnics to enjoy the peace and quiet of the surrounding nature.

The Woodstock Green

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
The Woodstock Village Green

This beautiful park is a charming setting with large overgrown oak trees and a vast well-manicured lawn. Like most small towns, Woodstock has a nice village green which serves as their location for many activities such as farmers markets, festivals, and other outdoor events. The town’s green is a long stretch of grass with benches throughout the park.

Conclusion

Woodstock is a beautiful town with a lot of picturesque nature, architecture, and tree lined streets. The town is a lot smaller than we anticipated so if you are visiting you will only need a few hours to see the majority of it. This is a great option for a stop through on the way to another destination. Each New England town, especially the smaller ones have their own unique charm about them. Woodstock is a must for any traveler venturing to the Northeast. You will discover a culture from a bygone era in this charming New England town.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Woodstock Covered Bridge

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post. We hope you enjoyed the post as much as we did creating the post. Please feel free to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and subscribe to our YouTube channel

References

  1. The Town of Woodstock. (2022). 4 covered bridges that epitomize Vermont charm: A visual tour. https://www.woodstockvt.com/the-town/blog/4-covered-bridges-that-epitomize-vermont-charm-a-visual-tour
  2. The Woodstock Inn and Resort. (2022). Our Story. https://www.woodstockinn.com/stay/our-story
  3. The Norman Williams Public Library. (2022). History of the Norman Williams Public Library. https://normanwilliams.org/history-of-the-library/
  4. Woodstock Vermont. (2022). Our History. https://www.woodstockvt.com/the-town/our-history
  5. Kiddle. (2022). Woodstock, Vermont Facts for Kids. https://kids.kiddle.co/Woodstock,_Vermont
  6. Mount Mansfield Maple Products. (2022) Organic Pure Maple Sugar Candy. https://vermontpuremaple.com/collections/homepage/products/organic-pure-maple-sugar-candy

Copyright (2025) TravelingMindfully All Rights Reserved

Cape Elizabeth, ME – A Town of Lighthouses, Lobster & Views

By

On June 22, 2025

In Maine

Where to Find Lighthouses, Lobster & Ocean Views

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

Cape Elizabeth is known for Lighthouses, Lobster, and Ocean Views. This little town boasts some of the most scenic lighthouses and iconic landscapes that make Maine such a popular travel destination. Cape Elizabeth is located about 5 miles southeast of Portland on Maine’s southeastern coast (1). The town of Cape Elizabeth has five lighthouses that are great spots for photo opportunities. Moreover, exploring the light houses gives you a wonderful chance to relax and enjoy some mindful moments.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Eastern Lighthouse

The lighthouses are surrounded by parks and other outdoor attractions. This along with Maine’s famous lobster rolls are the makings of a very mindful excursion as scenic beauty and ocean breezes will be the distinguishing points of your trip to Cape Elizabeth, ME.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Atlantic Ocean

My wife and myself drove from New Hampshire to Cape Elizabeth for the day. Our itinerary included exploring lighthouses, state parks, and eating some lobster rolls. When we arrived at the Lobster Shack, which is next to two lighthouses, we were a little disappointed that the lighthouses were not as easily accessible. However, we were able to take some pictures from the distance.

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The grounds are owned by the restaurant, which include all the picnic benches on the ledge overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The area is not large and is easy to walk around. With that in mind, you will only need about an hour or two to explore and eat lunch.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Eastern Lighthouse and Driveway

Things to Consider when Traveling to Maine

There are some things to keep in mind when traveling to Cape Elizabeth, Maine for your lighthouse excursion. First and foremost, the drive is a distance and out of the way from many major highways and towns. Furthermore, when you are researching lighthouses to visit, make sure that you have the appropriate name and directions as each one requires different travel routes. Moreover, the lighthouses can vary by location and can be next to restaurants, in state parks, or in very remote places. Most state parks will ask for a nominal entrance fee. Therefore, plan accordingly as some surprises are not always enjoyable.

Moreover, if you are not familiar with driving through Maine you might want to consider their tolls, which can be costly at times and there are a lot of them. My wife and I drove from New Hampshire to Cape Elizabeth, ME. Our round-trip costs were roughly $12.00, and we did not get very far into Maine. This is not a crazy cost, but it is one to consider when you are in the budgeting and planning phases of your trip. Consequently, the small fees and unanticipated costs associated with travel are the ones that can add up the fastest eroding away at funds you had set aside for other intentions.

Where to Eat and Enjoy the Views

The Lobster Shack

225 Two Lights Road

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Lobster Shack Outdoor Patio

The Lobster Shack Restaurant has great food and the prime location for photographs. Although, the food will make for a unique experience, we must mention that it is not reasonably priced. In other words, if you are on a budget, we would recommend having your lunch at one of Portland’s downtown restaurants and splurging on a desert at the Lobster Shack. Nevertheless, the location is amazing as you have access to indoor and outdoor seating that will give you incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Lobster Shack outdoor patio

The Lobster Shack is extremely popular and can produce long lines. However, the restaurant is efficiently run, and can go through a line quickly without diminishing customer service or quality of food. The restaurant itself represents an authentic fisherman lobster shack that has warm wood and large windows that provide a lot of sunlight and astonishing views of the Atlantic Ocean. For that reason, The Lobster Shack is one of Maines iconic restaurants and gives you a true immersion into the culture, atmosphere, and food of Maine.

Lobster Roll Boat

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Lobster Roll Boat

A generous portion of steamed lobster that is lightly salted, peppered, and infused with a dash of lemon juice. This dish is served in a hotdog bun that is topped with a dill pickle and paprika seasoned mayonnaise. The lobster boat is accompanied by a side of crinkle fries. This Maine delicacy is well revered throughout New England and the world.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Raspberry Pastry

The Raspberry pastry is a flaky outer shell that is filled with a raspberry jam, topped with buttercream and a dash of powder sugar.

Ocean Views

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
View from the outdoor seating of the Lobster Shack.

The outdoor patio offers unobstructed views of the ocean, which makes for a wonderful place to relax and take it all in. This is also a great spot to eat and enjoy the boats passing by.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Two Lights Road Beach

The beach at the end of Two Lights Road is both beautiful and naturally undisturbed. Evidently, this seems to be a prominent theme throughout the Coastal Maine region. As a result, the natural unperturbed rocky beaches help contribute to Maine’s abundance of seafood and their fishing industry, making them one of the top exporters of seafood in the United States (3).

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Atlantic Ocean View From The Lobster Shack Grounds

Undoubtedly, the grounds near the Lobster Shack provide spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beautiful and scenic views offer the mindful traveler excellent photo opportunities and a nice ocean breeze that can cool off any sundrenched traveler. Moreover, the natural landscape of wildflowers offers the photographer a beautiful canvas, and the mindful traveler an enjoyable and peaceful stroll along the ocean’s edge.

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PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl
Two Lights Eastern lighthouse seen from rock jetty

The above image captures the view of the eastern lighthouse, which is still active today and is one of the brightest lighthouses in Maine. The eastern lighthouse is visible up to 17 miles at sea (2). Unfortunately, this lighthouse is not accessible to the public and it is not associated with any public park.

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PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
Two Lights Eastern Lighthouse

Overall, Maine and Cape Elizabeth are both known for lighthouses, lobster, and ocean views. The lobster was great, and the coastline views were legendary. In other words, this beautiful place is worth the visit.

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post. We hope you enjoyed the post as much as we did creating the post. Please feel free to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and subscribe to our YouTube channel

References

  1. Town of Cape Elizabeth (2021) https://www.capeelizabeth.com/
  2. Maine Office of Tourism (2021) https://visitmaine.com/things-to-do/parks-natural-attracMaine tions/two-lights-state-park
  3. 10 Things to Know About (2019) U.S. News https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/2019-03-15/10-things-to-know-about-maine

Copyright (2025) TravelingMindfully All Rights Reserved

The Best Breakfest on the Island

By

On June 21, 2025

In Michigan

Traveling Mindfully

Be Mindful & Enjoy the Journey

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The Best Breakfest

In my opinion breakfast is one of the most important meals of the day, and therefore finding the right restaurant can really add to your entire experience. Finding a restaurant that has great food, and creates a memorable experience is not an easy feat. This can prove especially difficult when traveling with a group, since everyone’s views on the optimal breakfast may differ. However, worry no more because when it comes to breakfast, the Pink Pony is the spot. This amazing restaurant has not only traditional favorites but some local ones as well. With an abundance of options, their menu will have something for everyone. Along with great food they also have some incredible views from their outdoor covered patio.

The Pink Pony

7221 Main Street

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Pink Pony Restaurant outdoor covered dining room.

The Pink Pony is located inside the Chippewa hotel. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with indoor and outdoor seating. The Pink Pony is one of the most established and loved restaurants on the entire island.

Breakfast at the Pink Pony is phenomenal. This is one of the few places where I can honestly say that they have just too many good options. If I were to narrow it down, I would recommend the Home Style French Toast. This delicious choice includes several thick slices of cinnamon or banana nut bread that are cooked to a perfect light crisp texture, with a soft inside and topped with powdered sugar. Both options, the banana nut bread and cinnamon bread are amazing and served with your choice of bacon, sausage, or ham.

If French Toast is not your thing, I would also recommend the Mackinac Country Skillet. This is a delicious skillet that is loaded with onions, peppers, sausage and topped with cheddar and pepper jack cheese. It is also served with two eggs and toast. This would be a good option for someone who wants a heartier breakfast.

My Wife’s favorite is the Pony Power Scramble. Just as the name suggests, this little breakfast pleaser will get you energized for those long island walks or bike rides. The Pony Power Scramble consists of egg whites, spinach, onions, asparagus, tomatoes, mushrooms, and it is topped with homemade salsa. This dish comes with home fries (diced potatoes cooked in oil and topped with salt and parsley) and choice of toast.

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Mackinac Island Public Harbor

If you are not much of a breakfast person, this landmark restaurant has some amazing lunch and dinner options as well. For lunch and dinner, they are famous for their whitefish dip and lunch burgers. Moreover, if you enjoy a livelier dinner experience, the Pink Pony provides live music, which is played all throughout the summer months.

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Waterfront Dining

The dining options are excellent, but for those who enjoy a beautiful Michigan summer morning, then you may want to make this your breakfast place. If you are spending a few nights in one of the Mackinac Island hotels, you may need to visit this breakfast spot a few times in order to get to try all of those delicious items on the menu. My wife and I only got to have one breakfast while there, and we sure wished for a repeat so that we could try more of their delicious options.

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Furthermore, if you enjoy those beautiful Michigan mornings, you will also want to venture to the outdoor patio for your breakfast, which provides beautiful views of the island and marina. In my opinion, The Pink Pony has the best outdoor real-estate on the whole island. The views provide you with the opportunity to enjoy breakfast as you are surrounded by nature and distant sailboats gliding through the tranquil waters of Lake Huron.

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Sailboat in Mackinac Island Public Harbor

If you are visiting Mackinac Island in the summer take a trip to the Pink Pony restaurant. You will not regret it. If you are able to ask to be seated in the outdoor patio as it overlooks the Mackinac Island State Harbor. We also recommend getting there early and being prepared to wait a little, as this place is quite popular. However, the spectacular view and great food makes it worth the wait.

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The Best Hotels on Mackinac Island, MI

By

On June 21, 2025

In Michigan

Traveling Mindfully

Be Mindful & Enjoy the Journey

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A guide to where to stay in Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is a unique place that everyone should experience in their lifetime. A truly remarkable experience that is full of history, breathtaking beauty and just one of those places that should be on everyone’s bucket list. The hotels are also just as unique as the Island. Each hotel offers its own unique style and themes that cater to different types of luxury and distinctive characteristics of Mackinac Island. Here are a couple of The Best Hotels on Mackinac Island that we feel would be a good choice for a family or couples.

Lilac Tree Hotel

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The Lilac Tree Hotel is located right in the middle of downtown Mackinac Island. The hotel is steps away from restaurants, shopping, the ferry docks and fudge. This central location gives you access to all that downtown Mackinac Island has to offer. In this little downtown you will find exceptional gift shops where you can collect a memorable ornament or keepsake. Throughout the downtown you will also find various ice cream shops that will cool you off after a warm walk through the sun-drenched afternoon. If you do not mind a little noise and a little hustle and bustle, you will enjoy this hotel.

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Downtown Main Street Mackinac Island at dusk

We would recommend a room with a balcony as they face the main street where you can see all the action. The majority of the tourist traffic occurs during the day. At night, the main street quiets down a lot, providing a calmer atmosphere. All of the rooms have a small sitting area, marble top bathrooms, and each balcony comes with a table and chairs. On the balcony you can enjoy your mid-day latte or even a meal from one of the local restaurants as they are all within a short walking distance. Furthermore, the balcony gives its visitors a spectacular view of the stars and distant boats on the horizon.

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Balcony from the Lilac Tree Hotel overlooking Main Street Mackinac Island. As you can see you are in the center of all the action.

Mission Point Resort

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Entrance into Mission Point Resort

If you are looking for a little quieter accommodation with a little more luxurious touch, the Mission Point Resort might be your spot. It is located about a mile from downtown Mackinac Island. This beautiful hotel has some of the best views of all the hotels on the island. Upon entering the lobby you will be awed by the hotel’s enchanting and cozy appeal. The main entrance is lined with several fireplaces and over sized couches that overlook the forests of Mackinac Island, giving an intimate and relaxing feel. Here, you can enjoy your morning coffee or an afternoon latte with your favorite book. This lobby was probably one of the coziest lobbies I have ever visited. Filled with over sized chairs and leather couches the comfort level is incredible and makes waiting for anything more enjoyable.

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Mission Point Resort seen from the Great Lawn

The outside of the resort is just as impressive as the inside. In front of the hotel you will have access to “The Great Lawn,” which offers a beautiful meadow that feels like a lush carpet on your feet. The oversized Adirondack chairs that are positioned throughout the landscape are extremely comfortable and are great to have a picnic on or to enjoy the beautiful summer weather that northern Michigan has to offer. This also makes for a great place to watch the boats pass by and feel a sensation of tranquility.

My wife and I enjoyed a nice picnic with sandwiches and pastries on a beautiful sunny afternoon. We saw the boats gently gliding through the straits and Canadian Geese flocking overhead. It was a memory we will always cherish and hold dear.

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Mission Point Resort’s famous Great Lawn at dusk.

In addition, the hotel features several restaurants. This allows you to stay in after a long day of exploring the island and gives you an assortment of food options. The hotel also has an outdoor pool, a grass putting course as well as a kids club. The kid’s club is open daily from 4:30pm to 7:00pm (late May to early September) and provides dinner, activities and ice-cream. So, if you bring your little ones along, they will alway have something to do.

This well-established resort offers some of the most breathtaking and uninterrupted views. Furthermore, the hotel rooms are large and provide exceptional views of the straits of Mackinac and Lake Huron. In the morning you will wake up to large cargo ships gently gliding through the calm waters of Lake Huron. Peace, tranquility, and luxury are the defining points of this world-class resort.

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Mission Point guest room view from the Main Guest Lodge

So, whether you want to be in the heart of it all or on the outskirts of the lively downtown, there is a place for everyone. Most hotels that are not directly located in the downtown region offer horse drawn taxis that run throughout the day. The island is very walkable as horse drawn taxis and bicyclists make up the majority of the traffic. So, there you have it the Best Hotels on Mackinac Island, MI.

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    The Best Beach Resort in Frankfort, MI

    By

    On June 19, 2025

    In Michigan

    Beach Resort in Downtown Frankfort, MI

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

    When it comes to picking the right place to stay there are several factors to consider. The location of the hotel, the amenities, and the level of comfort a hotel offers. The Harbor Lights Resort on Lake Michigan meets all of those and so much more. Let us explore this iconic resort right on Lake Michigan in the beautiful charming beach town of Frankfort Michigan.

    Harbor Lights Resort

    15 South 2nd Street

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Luxury Suite

    The Harbor Lights Resort is on lake Michigan and has its own private beach access from the resort. This resort is family owned and the owners are onsite daily. You are also within walking distance to downtown Frankfort and the vast majority of its restaurants and shopping. I personally feel walkability is a big factor to fully enjoy a relaxing vacation. In my opinion this is the best resort in town. Not only does it offer great amenities but it is also in a convenient location. You can literally park your car and never have to use it since you can easily walk to the beach or the downtown area. Additionally, there is ample parking and it is free of cost.

    Furthermore, the resort offers an indoor pool, and the lobby serves coffee and has fresh donuts delivered every morning from the crescent bakery. We have stayed at this resort multiple times so far and plan on continuing to stay there when we travel to Frankfort in the future. Moreover, the resort is very clean, and cozy. Upon entering the suite we were overwhelmed with a warm northern feeling of comfort. Also, the staff is friendly and always able and willing to assist with towels and other inquiries that you may have.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Hot Tub Inside Bedroom

    This resort offers various types of rooms. I would recommend the luxury suites for its size and amenities. The luxury suite is about $80.00 more per night than the standard motel rooms, but you get a lot more, including double the amount of space at around 740 square feet. Basically, you go from a motel room to a full condo with amenities, such as a whirlpool, fireplace, balcony, living room, and a full kitchen stocked with plates silverware and glasses. Moreover, the balcony gives you a partial view of lake Michigan and Betsie Lake.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Full Kitchen

    Each Suite comes with a complete kitchen, which can be advantageous as you can shop for groceries at the Main grocery store or stock up on some of the baked goods from the Crescent Bakery down the street. This also allows you to do some of the cooking at home, instead of having to go out to eat for every meal. The luxury suites have a large dining room table for meals and a comfortable living room with a double-sided gas fire place to really set the mood. The fireplace is especially wonderful during the cooler fall months.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Gas Fireplace
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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Living Room

    The best part of the luxury suite is the large balcony each one of these suites offers. We would spend every morning and evening sitting on the balcony in one of the Adirondack chairs and listen to the waves in the distance crash onto the shore. The balcony is also a great place to read your favorite book while enjoying a mid afternoon latte.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Balcony view of Lake Michigan

    Frankfort is a special place that merges nature, good food, and a beautiful beach to provide a one of a kind family gathering or relaxing vacation. If you want to reconnect with loved ones and family, then stay at the Harbor Lights Resort on Lake Michigan. This beautiful resort is located in the best charming beach town in Michigan.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Twilight over lake Michigan & Frankfort Bluffs

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    Charlevoix, MI – What to See and Do in a Day

    By

    On June 14, 2025

    In Michigan

    Enjoy the Lake, Boating, and Waterfront Dining

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

    Enjoy the Lake, Boating and Waterfront Dining during the summers in Northwest Michigan. Charlevoix is a beautiful old-fashioned town located between Lake Michigan and Round Lake. This is a true northern Michigan treasure. The town is associated more with Lake Charlevoix, which connects into Round lake. Lake Charlevoix is one of Michigan’s most premier lakes registering as the third largest inland lake in the lower peninsula (Michigan.org/city/Charlevoix, 2020). Charlevoix is famous for its lake, boating, waterfront dining, boutique shopping and ferry rides to Beaver Island. Charlevoix has just an all-around charming appeal.

    Moreover, this is a great place to visit while passing through to other destinations. The town has many options for a bite to eat, an ice cream cone or to enjoy a relaxed shopping experience. This beautiful town offers an abundance of photo opportunities from its beautiful lakes and parks, to its charming flower lined streets. If you enjoy Lakes, Boats and Ice-cream with a relaxed and intimate feel then this is a place to visit. A short visit around the town and you will see there is a great deal of pride that goes into the well-manicured parks, and sidewalks. This will be a truly enjoyable visit for anyone who wants beauty and relaxation out of their trip.

    Restaurants

    Stafford Weathervane Restaurant

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Stafford Weathervane Restaurant

    The summers in Northwest Michigan should also include great food. The best place to enjoy a great meal in Charlevoix, MI. would be Stafford Weathervane. Stafford Weathervane is a beautiful restaurant located on the charming Round Lake Channel, overlooking the Charlevoix iconic drawbridge. The food and the view are incredible. This is a must see if you are visiting Charlevoix, Michigan. I would recommend making a reservation if possible, since the wait time can be lengthy. I would also recommend asking for outside seating on their terrace that overlooks the Channel so that you can get the full northern Michigan experience. This is a lot of fun, especially if you have children as the boats drift by frequently. If you are lucky you might be able to see the drawbridge ascend, and the Emerald Ferry depart to Beaver Island.

    The food is also amazing. They have your typical northern Michigan selection of freshwater fish, such as Whitefish, Perch, and Walleye. They do cater more to the seafood lover but they also have selections such as chicken, prime rib, tenderloin, BBQ ribs and lamp chops. I would highly recommend this restaurant based on the ambiance, location, views, food, and service. As for the price point, they are on the pricier side; a typical lunch is around $50.00 for two people not including alcoholic beverages. I did not attend dinner as this was a day trip, but I can only imagine from glancing at the dinner menu that the food only gets better. Enjoy!!!

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Emerald Isle ferry passing under the Charlevoix bridge seen from the Stafford Weathervane Restaurant Terrance. This ferry transports visitors along with cars to Beaver Island.

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    Lakes, Boats and Parks

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Charlevoix Public Library Park

    Charlevoix Public library park is a beautiful park that is well maintained. The assortment of flowers and landscaping was truly a joy to photograph. In the center is a large statue of a butterfly enjoying nectar from a flower.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Charlevoix East Park Marina

    Summers in Northwest Michigan should always include a mindful walk to enjoy the sights and sounds and Charlevoix East Park Marina is a great spot to do just that. East Park Marina is a public park that has many benches and tables with umbrellas. The Park overlooks the city marina and Round lake, which connects Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan. This connecting lake makes Lake Charlevoix highly desirable for boating enthusiasts as they can not only make use of Lake Charlevoix but also have access to Lake Michigan without having to leave the water. This park also hosts the Charlevoix Waterfront Art Fair.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Estates on Round Lake

    This would be an example of a boating enthusiast. Round lake grants the enthusiast access to Lake Charlevoix and Lake Michigan along with providing a deep-water docking for their boats. This lake has become very prestigious because of this, making it a highly desirable real estate area in Michigan and Internationally.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Round Lake Channel

    This deep-water channel connects Round Lake with Lake Michigan, giving boaters a broader option of boating and much longer excursions since they now have access to all that Lake Michigan has to offer. In the distance is the Charlevoix South Pier Light Station.

    Charlevoix, Mi is a great place to enjoy lakes, boats, ice cream and so much more during the summer months in northwest Michigan. Every summer road trip through northwest Michigan should include a stop or a night in beautiful Charlevoix.

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    Petoskey, MI – A Water Wonderland on the Bay

    By

    On June 14, 2025

    In Michigan

    A Mindful Day Trip Travel Guide

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

    Where to Shop, Parks to visit, Restaurants to Eat at & What to See in this Beautiful Quaint City on Little Traverse Bay

    Petoskey is a Beautiful Quaint City on Little Traverse Bay in northern Michigan. This water wonderland paradise is located in the northwestern part of the lower peninsula of Michigan. It is known for its picturesque coastline along Little Traverse Bay. This small city happens to combine a small-town charm with a vibrant resort community. Furthermore, this small city offers fun activities for all ages throughout the year, especially during the summer months. Petoskey is best described as a Beautiful Quaint City on Little Traverse Bay

    Little Traverse Bay and light house
    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse Petoskey

    We visited Petoskey in the summer of 2019 for a day and we had a very cozy experience. The cozy experience is most likely the result of the small town feel and its walkable sidewalks. As we headed towards downtown, we were mesmerized by the beautiful rolling hills that slipped into the gorgeous plumage of blue colors that made up the bay. Upon parking our vehicle, we immediately felt excited about exploring the town.

    We first made our way down to the Bayfront Park to see that gorgeous bay with its different shades of blue. Afterwards, we worked up an appetite and found a delicious pretzel shop. We ate our pretzels outside on their patio that overlooks the Bayfront Park. After enjoying our pretzels, we headed to explore the Gaslight District to find a Christmas Ornament. This is where we were able to explore their shops and restaurants that we will be sharing with you in this article.

    Why Choose Petoskey, MI.

    Petoskey is one of those cities that will instantly relax you as it brings in all the charm from Northern Michigan. The city sits on Little Traverse Bay, which is simply picturesque during the summer months. Furthermore, Petoskey has some of the most adorable shops and parks throughout the downtown and Bayfront. The city has many sidewalks and is easily walkable whether you are in the Historic Gaslight District or just wandering around enjoying the ambience of this charming city.

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

    Petoskey has pretty much everything you would want for an enjoyable summer vacation. For instance, they have golf courses, docks to park or rent a boat, wineries, and an abundance of nature that will satisfy any explorer. It also makes for a great place for a summer vacation with the family. This resort city can be an excellent stop for a day or several days. So, be a part of the history and beauty of this iconic northern Michigan city and Enjoy the Journey.

    The Petoskey Stone

    Over 350 million years ago Michigan was once covered by warm shallow saltwater (1). A particular marine animal once thrived on the area of land we now call Michigan (1). The animal was called colonial coral (hexagonaria percarinata) and it thrived with other marine life in tropical reefs (1). The Hexagonaria percarinaysn consists of tightly packed six-sided corallites, which are the skeletons of the once-living coral polyps (1). The hexagon shape of each cell and thin lines radiating out from the dark “eye” in the center are distinguishing features unique to this fossil.

    Several million years ago glaciers scraped the earth and spread these fossils across the northern lower peninsula, while also depositing a large amount of them in the Petoskey region (1). This prehistoric fossil which is unique to the Northwest region of the lower peninsula of Michigan also became Michigan’s state stone in 1965(1). The word Petoskey is a native word that translates to “rays of light” (2).

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Little Traverse Bay

    History

    Petoskey was established in 1879 and originally named Bear River. The name was changed to Petoskey after the local Indian Chief and well-respected businessman Ignatius Petoskey (2). A statue was built in honor of Chief Petoskey in 2005 that overlooks Little Traverse Bay on Lewis Street (2).

    Ernest Hemingway

    One of the greatest American authors used to frequent the Petoskey area during the summer months. His name was Ernest Hemingway, and his family had a cottage on Lake Walloon. Hemingway spent the first 22 years of his life every summer in Petoskey (2). The young Ernest Hemingway created several short stories and a novel that was inspired by the beautiful surroundings of the Petoskey area.

    Economy

    Petoskey’s original economy when it was being settled was dependent on limestone mining and timber (2). Furthermore, the lumber in this region helped rebuild a lot of Chicago after its famous fire (7). Petoskey is located on Little Traverse Bay, which is connected to the Great Lakes. This helped make Petoskey easily accessible for commerce to other cities on the Great Lakes such as Detroit and Chicago.

    Tourism

    Petoskey started to become a tourist spot for many Midwesterners during the late 1800s (2). Petoskey offered cooler summers and pleasant summer evenings due to the cool breeze that would come off the Bay and lakes in the surrounding area. This region became especially popular for families to escape the busy and non-airconditioned cities of the Midwest during the summer months (4). By 1900 there were 14 hotels in Petoskey that could accommodate up to 2,000 overnight guests. Petoskey has since grown into a small city and tourism is still one of its main economic drivers. Currently, the city’s tourism has grown to well over 750,000 guests every summer from 2,000 over a century ago (4).

    green field with homes on a bluff overlooking little traverse bay
    PHOTO: Nina Gradwohl

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    Beautiful Places to Visit

    Bayfront Park

    Bayfront Park sign
    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

    Bayfront Park is a large 25-acre park that parallels the shores of little traverse bay. This is a great place for a family photo or to just peacefully watch the boats glide through the waters of Little Traverse Bay. The park is easily accessible on foot from the downtown district and has over 7800 feet of public shoreline on Little Traverse Bay (5). This is also a great place to hunt for that Petoskey stone you always wanted.

    Gaslight District

    Gaslight District is where you will find the majority of restaurants and shops in Petoskey. This is a great spot to stop for a snack and some mementos as they have an abundance of neat, and charming stores. Each store offers distinctive gifts that are local to the region and give off a northern woods appeal. In the Gaslight District you will find bookstores and art stores that reflect the nature and homage of the Petoskey area. Furthermore, the Gaslight District has large wide sidewalks that can easily accommodate a group, therefore creating a very walkable downtown.

    Pennsylvania Park

    park with large oak trees and benches.

    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Pennsylvania Park Benches

    Pennsylvania Park is a beautiful park in the heart of downtown Petoskey, just east of the Gaslight District. The park is filled with large beech wood maple trees that present a shaded canopy for the daytime traveler. The park also features a beautiful gazebo that is great for relaxing and enjoying your surroundings, as well as a statue of the famous author Ernest Hemingway. In addition to features, the park also has a public restroom and is home to many picnics and live music concerts in the summer months. This beautiful park is well maintained and a great reprieve from a day of shopping and dining.

    The Best Quaint Shops

    McLean and Eakin

    307 E Lake Street

    McLean and Eakin opened in 1992 by a schoolteacher and lover of books. This charming bookstore is located in the Historic Gaslight District of Downtown Petoskey. The bookstore has old world charm and a quaint feel to it that will leave you inspired to read more. The store features many local authors, such as a large collection of Ernest Hemingway books. This is a wonderful book store that we are sure you will enjoy when you are visiting Petoskey, MI.

    Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts

    301 E. Lake Street

    Grandpa Shorter’s is a fascinating gift shop that offers all kinds of unique souvenirs that represent the area’s beautiful natural setting. This is Petoskey’s original souvenir shop which opened its doors in 1946 (6). The gift shop is full of locally sourced jams, treats, Petoskey stones, clothing and many other fun gifts. The store also has toys for children.

    In addition, the shop features Minnetonka Moccasins (handcrafted footwear that is influenced by traditional native American moccasins and uses natural leather) which was the first item the shop ever ordered in its modest and humble beginnings. The shop is still owned by the same family passing from generation to generation.

    This gift shop had a wide selection of souvenirs but unfortunately they were lacking in the Christmas ornament department. My wife and I are always on the search for the perfect Christmas ornament that represents the region or area we are visiting at the time of our travels. Unfortunately, we did not find one, but we did find a great souvenir shop where you will find some unique gifts for your loved ones.

    The Best Restaurants

    City Park Grill

    432 E. Lake Street

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    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    City Park Grill Main Bar

    This is an amazing restaurant and it is one you must dine in when visiting Petoskey. The restaurant is in one of the oldest buildings in Petoskey and it was originally constructed in 1875. The City Park Grill is one of the highest rated restaurants in the area and is known for some amazing dishes. Also, this used to be the famous author Ernest Hemingway’s favorite hangout in the 1920’s. If you venture to the bar, there is a small indentation on the bar top where Mr. Hemingway used to put out his cigar when he visited (3).

    Now onto the food. The food in the restaurant is phenomenal. My wife and I were amazed by how each dish we tried was delicious and full of unique flavor. A few of the items we enjoyed are the following:

    Chicken Noodle Soup – The soup my wife ordered was a delicious hearty version of the classic chicken noodle soup. The soup had large chunks of white chicken meat and fresh vegetables. I could not help myself and had to sample my wife’s soup several times, which she was happy to share.

    Creole Gumbo Soup – I ordered the gumbo and was equally impressed with this soup as with the chicken noodle. My wife was also impressed, and we ended up sampling each other’s soups throughout the course. This delicious southern inspired soup had large shrimp, large chunks of white meat chicken, and spicy sausage that really enhanced the flavor profile. It was also loaded with fresh vegetables and rice that seemed prepared that day.

    Hummus platter – This appetizer was not only delicious but immense and could easily be shared with a large group. By the time we had finished the appetizer we contemplated ordering any more food. The hummus platter had delicious grilled pita bread that was crunchy and soft in all the right places. The hummus dip itself was a delicious chickpea seasoned spread that had a unique smokey flavor to it. We ended up finishing the entire platter.

    Parmesan-Herb Whitefish – After our fill of soup and the hummus platter, we decided to split the Parmesan-Herb Whitefish, and I am glad that we did as this dish was amazing. The dish was served with mashed potatoes which were excellent and really complimented the dish. They were made with white truffles and mashed to perfection. We simply could not get enough of those delicious mashed potatoes and almost ordered them as a side to take with us.

    The locally sourced whitefish was divine as well and had a parmesan and herb seasoning on top encrusting the fish, which really preserved the flavor giving it a nice crunch with every bite. As with our previous dishes, the vegetables were grilled and tasted like they were picked that day. When visiting Michigan, you need to try the Whitefish as it is a true delicacy and gives you the flavor and taste of Michigan.

    Petoskey Pretzel Co.

    200 Petoskey Street

    side walk over looking Bayfront Park sign and Little Traverse Bay.
    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Petoskey Pretzel Co. entrance door overlooking Bayfront Park

    This charming shop is located across the street from the famous Bayfront Park tunnel and on the corner of Bay Street in the Gaslight District. This little pretzel shop is sure to delight any traveler who is looking for a nice warm soft pretzel for their mid-day snack. Their pretzels are made fresh daily in house, using all natural ingredients including their very own patent flour blend. This is what adds to that perfect texture and flavor profile that we all love about a soft warm pretzel.

    The interior of the shop is small, charming and cozy while smelling of fresh pretzels. The fresh smells will permeate your senses as you enter the shop, enticing you to leave with more than what you intended to come in for. The shop has indoor and outdoor seating offering a dine-in counter and a few tables and chairs outside the shop. Most patrons take their order to go and enjoy their pretzel in one of the beautiful parks surrounding the downtown area of Petoskey.

    The Pretzel Co offers many types of handmade pretzels served daily such as the PPC Buttery Original, which is the original house made butter and salt pretzel. This is where the magic all started.

    The Cinnamon & Sugar Pretzel is for the sweet tooth lover (my wife). The Pretzel is an original buttered pretzel that is dipped in cinnamon and sugar. Tasty!

    In addition to their classic pretzels, the shop also serves several seasonal pretzels such as the Pumpkin Pretzel. Moreover, the store offers various beverages, hot drinks, bottles of water and other flavored beverages that you can easily transport with you.

    Sign and map of Downtown Petoskey, MI.
    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Downtown Petoskey Map

    Conclusion

    Well, there you have it, everything you could do in one day in Petoskey Michigan. Petoskey is a city where you could easily spend a few nights and still feel like there is more to explore and do. That is the beauty of northern Michigan in the summer, there is always somewhere to explore. The weather is beautiful, and each day can be a beach day, a shopping day, or just a day to explore the abundance of beautiful nature that Petoskey and northern Michigan have to offer. We hope you make a stop here during your travels to Michigan’s northern part and enjoy this Beautiful Quaint City on Little Traverse Bay.

    Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post. We hope you enjoyed the post as much as we did creating the post. Please feel free to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and subscribe to our YouTube channel

    References

    1. Petoskey Area Visitors Bureau. (2021). Petoskey Stone. Petoskeyarea.com/media/Petoskey-stone/
    2. Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce. (2022). The History of Petoskey and Emmet County. http://www.petoskeychamber.com/the-history-of-petoskey-and-emmet-county
    3. Amy and Gonzo. (2018). Michigan’s Best Day in Petoskey, Mlive. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8w3Kaj8qKRU
    4. Moroney, Kyle. (2013). Smithsonian Magazine names Petoskey among best small American towns. Advance Local Media LLC
    5. City of Petoskey. (2022). Bayfront Park, Petoskey, MI. https://www.petoskey.us/departments/parks_and_recreation/bayfront_park.php
    6. Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts. (2022). Our Story, Petoskey Provisions, Gifts, & Wisdom. https://grandpashorters.com/virtual-tours/grandpa-shorters-gifts/
    7. Schons, Mary. (2022). The Chicago Fire of 1871 and the Great Rebuilding. National Geographic Society. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/chicago-fire-1871-and-great-rebuilding

    Copyright (2025) TravelingMindfully All Rights Reserved

    The Best Restaurants in Frankfort, MI

    By

    On June 3, 2025

    In Michigan

    A Guide on Where to Eat and Find the Best Ice Cream.

    A sunset over a beach Description automatically generated
    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl

    The Best Restaurants and Ice Cream

    The following article is going to describe The Best Restaurants in Frankfort, MI and what the surrounding areas have to offer. Northern Michigan is a very special place, especially in the summer. Many of my fondest memories were made in this special little town. I will share with you my personal favorite restaurants that I have been dining at since I was a little boy. I hope that you too can find a table at one of these places and make memories with your loved ones and family just as I did over the years.

    Dinghy’s

    415 Main Street

    Dinghy’s is a local favorite and one of mine as well. This pirate inspired restaurant and bar has been serving great food for over 30 years. The menu items are excellent, and the chef is constantly creating new dishes but keeping the long-time favorites as well. Located on Main Street in Frankfort, it is easy to find and walk to whether you are staying at one of Frankfort’s many Bed & Breakfast Inns or at one of the hotels.

    I would like to mention that in the summer the lines can be rather long due to the high volume of tourists, but it is definitely worth the wait. Known for their award-winning BBQ, this northern inspired Michigan landmark is one you do not want to miss. Some of my favorites are the Michigan cherry wrap, pulled pork BBQ sandwich, coleslaw, chili, cornbread and Bomba fries (fries topped with Cajun seasoning). Moreover, the menu is broad and will even accommodate some of the pickier eaters you may be traveling with.

    Crescent Bakery and Café

    404 Main Street

    Crescent Bakery and Café is a cute bakery located in the heart of downtown Frankfort. This incredible bakery offers a wonderful assortment of breads and pastries. They also have a fantastic breakfast menu that will transform you into a morning person instantly.

    The inside of the bakery has all sorts of creative cookie jars lined up as decorations throughout the bakery, which is a unique experience of its own. This little gem is also extremely popular, especially in the summer and therefore, you should plan to get there early.

    However, even if you do not find indoor seating, Frankfort has an abundance of benches and waterfront parks with picnic tables to enjoy any meal with comfort and a beautiful scenery. Although, if you make it there early enough you could find indoor seating. Eating indoors would be worth it because you would get to admire the various cookie jar decorations. This is a must for anyone who loves a good bakery as you will not be disappointed.

    Some recommendations I have would be the breakfast panini and the pretzel rolls. The pretzel roll is a soft buttery and delicious lightly salted roll. The pretzel rolls are so good that one year we bought two dozen. I cannot get enough of those, but unfortunately they sell out fast due to their popularity.

    A close up of a pastry Description automatically generated
    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    The Famous Pretzel Roll

    Another recommendation would be the the ham, egg and tomato panini served on sourdough bread and made at the location. The donut is a simple glazed donut that is also made at the location. Delicious!

    A plate of food on a table Description automatically generated
    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Crescent Bakery Panini & Donut

    The Manitou “Honor, MI”

    4349 N. Scenic Hwy, Honor, MI 49640

    Although, The Manitou restaurant is not in Frankfort, I had to acknowledge it. This is probably one of the most scenic restaurants I have ever encountered. The restaurant is located in a remote area between Frankfort and Honor, MI just past Crystal Lake. Upon entering you are immediately overcome with a feeling of warmth with its inviting fireplaces, warm lighting, and woodsy feel to it. This Northwoods cabinlike feel is sure to give you the ambience of peace and serenity.

    The food is great as well. I have eaten there many times but have noticed a slight decline in the grilled and baked items being replaced with more fried and beer battered items. All and all, this is a must because of the ambience and uniqueness in nature. If you can make it there before 6:00pm you can get their early bird special and save a few bucks. The restaurant is located on M-22, which has been declared one of the most scenic highways in the US, and the most scenic highway in the state of Michigan. They offer indoor and outdoor dining and onsite parking.

    Kilwin’s of Frankfort “ice cream”

    413 Main Street

    I have been to several Kilwin’s ice cream parlors, but I have never been as impressed by the ice cream as I was at this location. Located on Main Street, this old-fashioned ice cream spot is simply the best. Upon entering you are immediately engulfed with the smells of baked waffle cones, homemade fudge, pralines, chocolates, and many other homemade treats they offer at that time.

    The ice cream parlor has a local farm that provides them with dairy products for their ice cream and other treats, enhancing the flavor profile and giving the ice cream a creamier flavor and texture. If you have a craving for ice cream or sweets, this place is sure to satisfy your craving.

    A beach with a body of water and a pier Description automatically generated
    PHOTO: Christopher Gradwohl
    Frankfort Beach

    I hope that you can get a chance to visit the restaurants and ice cream place we described in this post. They are amazing little treasures that have served travelers for decades and have given lifelong memories to generations of families over the years.

    Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post. We hope you enjoyed the post as much as we did creating the post. Please feel free to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and subscribe to our YouTube channel

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