Discover the Magic of Fall at Alexandra Inn
Your Ultimate 2025 Guide
Autumn in Northern Michigan is a season of breathtaking color, crisp air, and adventures that welcome all ages. At Alexandra Inn, we believe that fall is one of the most magical times to visit. To help plan your stay, here’s our 2025 Fall Guide: the best hikes, drives, family‑fun, spooky thrills, and more. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, outdoor adventures, or quality family time, Alexandra Inn is your cozy base.
🍂 Peak Fall Colors: When to Visit
Expect peak fall foliage between October 3–13, 2025, depending on weather conditions.
For real‑time updates, check local news outlets or MLive.
Book early if your dates fall in this time—you’ll want to secure your room with a view.
🚶 Top Hiking Trails to See the Colors
Stretch your legs and soak up nature’s palette on these scenic hikes around Traverse City:
Empire Bluffs (Empire, MI) – Dramatic lake views + ridge walks.
Boardman Lake Loop (TC, MI) – Mild trail, great for sunrise/sunset walks.
Brown Bridge Quiet Area (Kingsley, MI) – Peaceful, forested, soft ground.
Hickory Hills (TC, MI) – Elevated vantage points, forested terrain.
🛣️ Scenic Drives: The Best Routes
Drive, stop, take photos, repeat. These roads are fall legends:
M22 (Leelanau County, MI) – Vineyards + shoreline vistas.
Tunnel of Trees (M‑119, Harbor Springs, MI) – Iconic road winding through forest canopy.
Center Road (M37, Old Mission Peninsula, TC, MI) – Orchard & lake views.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive (Empire, MI) – Star‑studded vistas over Lake Michigan.
🎢 Thrilling Fall Activities
Crystal Mountain – Alpine slide + chairlift rides that show off foliage.
Boyne Mountain – Walk the SkyBridge (world’s longest timber‑towered suspension bridge) for some seriously sweeping views.
👨👩👧 Family‑Friendly Fun
Friske’s Farm Market – Petting zoo, farm stand goodies, great food.
Jacob’s Farm – Corn maze, live music, farm flavors.
Gallagher’s Farms – Pumpkins, apple picking, donuts & cider for all ages.
👻 Spooky & Seasonal Events
For those who love a little chill with a thrill:
Asylum Twilight Tour at the Grand Traverse Commons ‒ explore the historic hospital grounds at dusk.
Screams in the Dark at the Northwest Michigan Fairgrounds ‒ the largest haunted attraction in NW Michigan.
🌟 Why Alexandra Inn is Your Perfect Fall Stay
Location: Centrally positioned so many of these hikes, drives, and events are just a short drive away.
Comfort & Charm: Scenic lakefront views, cozy rooms, and seasonal touches make fall stays special.
Local Flavor: We partner with nearby farms, orchards, and vendors to bring fall’s best to your doorstep—think local jams in our gift shop, in-season produce at our restaurant, and the area’s must-have wine available for room service.
🗓️ Quick Itinerary Ideas
Nature Lovers Fall Trip to Traverse City: 2-Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Head up Old Mission Penninsula to explore the Mission Point Lighthouse park. End the night with a scenic sunset dinner at Blush overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay.
Day 2: Pierce Stocking drive in the mid-morning, swing through Leland for Cheese Shanty sandwiches, end the day back in Traverse City at the Brown Bridge trail.
Family Fall Getaway in Northern Michigan: 2-Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Check-in at Alexandra Inn and visit Friske’s Farm in the afternoon.
Day 2: Start the day visiting Jacob’s Farm and Gallagher’s Farms, wrap up the night with an evening haunted tour.
Romantic Fall Escape in Traverse City: 2-Day Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Sunset dinner reservation at The Boathouse, nightcap drink at Blush, end the night with your in-room soaker spa tub at Alexandra Inn.
Day 2: Enjoy a quiet hike in the morning and end the day with a cider tasting at Suttons Bay Ciders.
✅ Tips for the Best Fall Experience
Pack layers—mornings and evenings can be chilly, afternoons warm.
Bring a good camera or phone with extra battery—foliage, views, wildlife.
Reserve early: popular drives and events get busy in foliage peak.
Be flexible: weather will affect colors and trail conditions.
📍 Get Here & Stay with Us
Located just minutes from many of these must‑see spots, Alexandra Inn offers cozy rooms, welcoming service, and seasonal charm. Let us help you plan so your fall visit is one you’ll never forget.
Ready to fall in love with Northern Michigan this autumn? Book your stay at Alexandra Inn now, and let the colors, crisp air, and adventures begin.