Things to do nearPeninsula Township

Old Mission Peninsula, the heart of Peninsula Township, stretches roughly 18 miles into Grand Traverse Bay and has been farmed since the mid-1800s. Missionaries and settlers recognized the fertile glacial soils and the moderating influence of the surrounding water, which protects crops from late frosts and extends the growing season in ways unusual for Michigan.

Today the peninsula is celebrated for two main pursuits: fruit farming and winemaking. Cherry orchards remain a defining feature of the landscape, and the area contributes significantly to Michigan's standing as one of the top cherry-producing states. Alongside the orchards, a cluster of family-owned wineries has earned national attention for cool-climate varietals, drawing wine enthusiasts from across the Midwest.

Outdoor recreation is woven into daily life here. The bay on either side offers kayaking, sailing, and swimming at public access points, while inland trails pass through wooded hillsides and open farmland. The Old Mission Lighthouse, a state historic site, anchors the northern tip and provides a peaceful destination for a short hike and quiet reflection by the water.

The atmosphere throughout Peninsula Township is unhurried and genuinely rural, with a working landscape that doubles as a destination. For anyone seeking scenic beauty, local food and wine, and a respite from busier resort areas nearby, it offers something quietly memorable.