Lake Ann Guide
Lake Ann is a tiny, tucked-away village about 20 minutes southwest of Traverse City that most tourists drive right past — which is exactly what makes it special. Home to the legendary Lake Ann Brewing Company, a beloved general store, and a serene lake perfect for a quiet afternoon on the water, the village itself offers a slower, more genuine slice of Northern Michigan life. But venture just a few minutes in any direction and you'll find yourself in some of the most beautiful and interesting corners of Benzie County — from the world-class stages of Interlochen to the Lake Michigan shores of Frankfort, the crystalline waters of Crystal Lake in Beulah, and the towering dunes of Sleeping Bear just beyond. This guide covers it all.
Where to book:
Eat
Birch & Maple
Frankfort, MI 49635
A standout dining destination overlooking the beautiful Betsie Bay in Frankfort. Birch & Maple serves modern, scratch-made dishes paired with craft cocktails in a warm, contemporary setting. One of the best meals in all of Benzie County — worth every minute of the drive.
Lake Ann Corner Cone
6515 First St, Lake Ann, MI 49650
A summertime essential. Lake Ann Corner Cone is the village's beloved ice cream stop — a simple, old-fashioned scoop shop that perfectly captures the unhurried spirit of life in a small Northern Michigan town. Hard to walk past without stopping.
Rock's Landing
1577 Crystal Dr, Frankfort, MI 49635
An intimate dining experience right on the shores of Crystal Lake — one of the clearest and most beautiful inland lakes in Michigan. Rock's Landing is a destination restaurant in its own right, offering refined cuisine with an unbeatable lakeside setting. Reserve ahead for sunset.
Dinghy's Restaurant & Bar
415 Main St, Frankfort, MI 49635
A classic Frankfort institution with retro diner charm — think smoked meats, American comfort food, and the kind of booth seating that makes you want to stay for hours. Reliably good, deeply local, and always full of friendly faces.
The Stone Oven
6551 First St, Lake Ann, MI 49650
The go-to kitchen for Lake Ann Brewing next door, The Stone Oven fires up pizzas, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and hearty entrees from a wood-fired oven. Casual, satisfying, and the perfect pairing for a cold pint on the brewery patio. This is the heart of Lake Ann's dining scene.
Drink
Stormcloud Brewing Company
303 Main St, Frankfort, MI 49635
One of the finest breweries in Northern Michigan, Stormcloud specializes in Belgian and European-inspired ales brewed with real craft and intention. The taproom in downtown Frankfort is lively and welcoming, with a great beer garden out back. A must-visit for serious beer lovers in the area.
Lake Ann Brewing Company
6535 First St, Lake Ann, MI 49650
The soul of Lake Ann and one of the most beloved craft breweries in all of Northern Michigan. Lake Ann Brewing produces exceptional craft beers, ciders, mead, and wine in a rustic, laid-back setting with a sprawling outdoor patio and a live music stage that runs all summer long. On a warm evening with a cold pint and a band playing, there is genuinely nowhere better to be in Benzie County.
Coffee
Red Door Coffee House
19631 Maple St, Lake Ann, MI 49650
The heartbeat of Lake Ann mornings. Red Door Coffee House is a cozy, beloved village cafe serving exceptional espresso drinks, fresh-baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, smoothies, and plenty of gluten-free options. Local artwork lines the walls, a park sits right across the street, and the patio out front is the perfect place to start a slow Northern Michigan day. Rated one of the best coffee spots in all of Benzie County.
Crescent Bakery & Cafe
Frankfort, MI 49635
A charming bakery and cafe in downtown Frankfort beloved for freshly baked pastries, great coffee, and a warm neighborhood atmosphere. The perfect morning stop before heading down to the Lake Michigan shoreline or exploring the Betsie Bay area.
Things to do
Interlochen Center for the Arts
4000 J. Maddy Pkwy, Interlochen, MI 49643
One of the most celebrated arts institutions in the world, located just minutes from Lake Ann. Interlochen hosts hundreds of world-class concerts, theater productions, dance performances, and exhibitions every year — many open to the public. Whether you catch a student recital or a headlining summer concert, an evening at Interlochen is something truly special. Check their calendar before your visit.
Frankfort Beach & Lighthouse
Frankfort, MI 49635
A gorgeous stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline anchored by the iconic Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse. The beach is wide, the water is spectacular, and the sunsets over the lake from this spot are among the best in all of Northern Michigan. A must-do for any visit to the Benzie County area.
Crystal Lake
Beulah, MI
One of Michigan's most beautiful inland lakes — and that is saying something. Crystal Lake lives up to its name with water so clear and blue it looks almost tropical. The public beach in Beulah is excellent for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, and the surrounding area is dotted with orchards and farm stands. A perfect half-day escape from the village.
Lake Ann Pathway
5539 N Reynolds Rd, Lake Ann, MI 49650
A stunning network of trails winding through the Pere Marquette State Forest just outside the village. The 5.8-mile pathway takes you past four pristine lakes, three bogs, and a stretch of the Platte River through old-growth forest. One of the most scenic and accessible trail systems in Benzie County — perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing in winter.
Betsie Bay & Elberta Beach
Elberta, MI 49628
Just across the bay from Frankfort, Elberta offers a quieter, more sheltered beach experience on Betsie Bay with warm, calm water — perfect for families with young kids. The views back toward Frankfort and the lighthouse are beautiful, and the pace here is wonderfully unhurried.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
9922 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630
One of the most stunning natural landmarks in the United States, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is just 30 minutes from Lake Ann and absolutely worth the drive. Climb the iconic Dune Climb, hike the Pyramid Point trail for panoramic lake views, explore the Manitou Islands, or simply walk the remote Lake Michigan beaches that stretch for miles. Named the 'Most Beautiful Place in America' by Good Morning America — it earns the title.
Platte River
Benzie County, MI
The Platte River begins in the lake district surrounding Lake Ann and winds its way southwest toward Lake Michigan. It's one of the most popular rivers in Northern Michigan for tubing, kayaking, and canoeing — calm enough for families but scenic enough to feel like an adventure. Outfitters in Honor can set you up with everything you need.
Lake Ann — Swimming & Fishing
Lake Ann, MI 49650
The lake that gives the village its name is a quiet, beautiful spot for a summer afternoon. Swim from the public access, drop a line for bass and bluegill, or simply sit on the shore and watch the light change over the water. This is Northern Michigan life at its most simple and satisfying.
Shop
Interlochen Corners
Interlochen, MI
A small but worthwhile collection of shops near the Interlochen Center for the Arts campus, offering local art, crafts, Michigan-made gifts, and unique souvenirs. A great browse after catching a performance or passing through on your way back from Frankfort.
Grocery
Lake Ann Grocery
19619 Maple St, Lake Ann, MI 49650
The village's one-stop shop for everyday essentials, local goods, and anything else you might need during your stay. Small but surprisingly well-stocked, and staffed by people who genuinely love where they live. Stocking up here before a day on the trails or the lake is half the fun.
Benzie County Area Markets
Beulah, MI
For a fuller grocery run, the towns of Beulah and Frankfort both have well-stocked markets within 15-25 minutes of Lake Ann. Benzonia's Family Fare and local markets in Frankfort are reliable options for everything from fresh produce to Michigan-made specialty foods. Stock up on your way out to the lake for a picnic or a day of exploring.