See all 28 Earl Young Mushroom Houses by GEM car
50 minutes
Up to 15 people
GEM car tour, Mushroom Houses
Explore Charlevoix’s Earl Young Mushroom Houses on a 50-minute ride in a GEM car or golf cart. Tour in a small group and see all 28 houses in one outing.
Public restrooms are not available in the building, so plan to use nearby public restrooms before the tour. Tours meet at 106 Park Ave where the carts are parked.
Cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Refunds and re-bookings will not be given if you arrive late.
Restrooms are not available in the building. Use public restrooms around Charlevoix before your tour.
Plan to arrive about 10 minutes before your scheduled start time so you have time for parking and check-in.
If you arrive late, refunds and re-bookings are not given.
Visitors consistently rave about the knowledgeable guides, particularly Edith, who brings Earl Young's distinctive mushroom houses to life with engaging storytelling and insider details. The cart-based tours offer comfortable transportation while covering these unique architectural gems along Lake Michigan's shoreline, with guides providing far more context and history than you'd get wandering on your own. Most appreciate the ample time for photos and the relaxed pace that makes the experience enjoyable even in less-than-perfect weather. The tours focus on exterior views since these are privately owned homes, though guides supplement with interior photos to give you a fuller picture. This is a locally operated business that clearly takes pride in sharing Charlevoix's history, and it shows in the consistently positive experiences. It's easy to book (even last-minute), reasonably priced, and a great way to spend an hour exploring one of the area's most unusual attractions. Even if architecture isn't typically your thing, the fascinating stories and beautiful lakeside setting make this a worthwhile stop.
Great tour of unique homes with the history to make a memorable tour
Chris Bowne
November 20, 2025
Great tour of unique homes with the history to make a memorable tour
Chris Bowne
November 20, 2025