Discover Elk Rapids

06/06/2026

Thanks to UpNorthLive for highlighting Paddle Antrim's milestone for accessibility, stewardship, and paddling in Michigan as they officially cut the ribbon at Elk Rapids Rotary Park on June 3! See the mention at 0:28 in the video. 💦

06/01/2026

Join us for a Monday Mindful Moment with Body Wise. 💫

A new month starting on a Monday! The sun is shining bright here in Downtown Elk Rapids, and there is a noticeable shift in excited energy in our village as we celebrate the start of our summer season. In just a few minutes, Judith guides us through an easy way to be mindful of our posture for the benefit of our bodies, whether we're seated at a desk or riding in a vehicle (perhaps on your way to Elk Rapids!)

Judith specializes in supporting clients who are dealing with pain and/or seeking inspired longevity. She knows what it’s like to be in pain, and knows it doesn’t have to be that way! Her approach includes various modalities and an integrative approach, combining techniques she's learned in her training and strategies developed from personal experience.

She loves showing her clients—through yoga, pilates, and fitness classes in Elk Rapids, Michigan, and private nutrition coaching available nationwide from the comfort of your home or office—how to take charge of longevity and reverse the signs of premature aging.

We're so inspired to have Judith's healing services like yoga, pilates, and nutrition coaching right here year-round in Downtown Elk Rapids. And that studio view! 🤩

Come get today—see services, class schedules, and connect with Judith at erbodywise.com.

Come !

05/26/2026

"After extensive renovations, the "reimagined” Dexter Hotel opened its doors Tuesday on Dexter Street in Elk Rapids.

Created by the former creative director of Shinola and built by Shore North Development in collaboration with Kinship Hospitality founders Daniel Caudill and Kamron Bijeh-Apple, the hotel now features 29 rooms with a “modern, sophisticated aesthetic rooted in place through carefully sourced materials, custom fabrication by Michigan makers, and curated vintage furniture that honors the state’s design legacy,” according to a hotel release. The rooms have been designed to feel like “warm, peaceful apartments” with custom furniture, lighting manufactured by Britten, and drapery sewn by a Traverse City seamstress.

"We approached this project by asking whether every element – every piece of furniture, every ceramic, every fixture – could be created by Michigan makers,” says Caudill. Art on the hotel walls comes from Michigan artists including Martyna Alexander, Pier Wright, and Jesse Hickman. Bowls, trays, cups, plates, soap dishes, and lamps were sourced from Traverse City ceramicists. The hotel also features custom millwork on the handcrafted reception desk and in Noble Lounge, Dexter’s restaurant and bar.

The kitchen at Noble Lounge will now be overseen by a new face – though one familiar to many Traverse City and Leelanau foodies. Executive Chef John Korycki, a veteran of Black Star Farms and frequent culinary instructor at NMC’s Extended Education program, will launch a new menu in mid-June featuring 9-12 seasonal small plates. Ingredients will be “sourced from celebrated local farms and artisans, including internationally award-winning cheesemakers from Suttons Bay and Northport,” according to the release. In a Facebook post, Korycki called Noble Lounge a “new creative challenge.”

“Stay tuned for a small plate menu featuring my handmade Italian pastas, Polish-inspired dishes, and seasonal Mediterranean flavors – all to be enjoyed with craft cocktails and great bottles of wine,” he wrote. The bar program will be headed up Anthony “Tony” DiMaria, formerly of Detroit’s Sugar House and Otis Harbor Spring, with a focus on “molecular mixology techniques,” an opening menu of 6-7 cocktails, and a “robust non-alcoholic program,” according to the hotel." via Traverse City Ticker

05/18/2026

"Harbor walks, easy water access, trail-town energy, friendly streets, and low-stress Lake Michigan scenery make this northern village a restorative small-town getaway."

Thanks Explore Michigan for featuring beautiful Elk Rapids!

05/06/2026

"The Northern Michigan gem is one of nine state-designated water trails designated by the Department of Natural Resources."

Paddle Antrim installed the [ new kayak ] rack as part of the larger accessibility improvements coming to Rotary Park, a key trailhead for the water trail.

“By installing these racks, we’re removing a barrier that can limit how people experience both the water trail and the communities along it,” [ Executive Director Deana Jerdee ] said. “It creates a more welcoming and flexible experience for paddlers, whether they are visiting for the first time or live nearby.”

The Chain of Lakes Water Trail is one of nine state-designated water trails in Michigan, spanning more than 100 miles.

05/01/2026

You're invited to a FREE screening of the film, "No Small Matter," hosted by the Great Start Collaborative and Family Coalition of Traverse Bay at the Elk Rapids Cinema on Thursday, May 7, with doors opening at 5:30 pm. The evening will also include an opening by Tilt Think Improv.

This event is focused on raising awareness about the importance of high-quality early learning and care opportunities for all children and families in our local communities.

"Families do better when communities make it easier to access quality early learning and care. But for many parents and caregivers, finding the support they need is still far too difficult — and that challenge affects not only children and families, but employers, schools, and the strength of our whole community.

This event is an opportunity to learn more, start important conversations, and build stronger support around the importance of investing in young children and their caregivers across our region." - Great Start Collaborative and Family Coalition of Traverse Bay

Families do better when communities make it easier to access quality early learning and care.

But for many parents and caregivers, finding the support they need is still far too difficult — and that challenge affects not only children and families, but employers, schools, and the strength of our whole community.

That is why we are inviting you to join us for a free screening of No Small Matter at the Elk Rapids Cinema on May 7, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.

This event is an opportunity to learn more, start important conversations, and build stronger support for young children and their caregivers across our region. The evening will also include an opening by Tilt Think Improv.

Hosted by the Great Start Collaborative of Traverse Bay in partnership with NMC, Northwest Education Services, Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency, and Do A Little Good.

Please join us, and help spread the word.


Northwestern Michigan College
Northwest Education Services
Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency
Do a Little Good

04/23/2026

"Elk Rapids is a town that feels well-preserved, a place where you can get lost and explore the vast nature of Northern Michigan without a care in the world." (And first on this list. 😉)

These beautiful small towns located in Michigan stand out for their access to the Great Lakes and abundance of outdoor activities.

04/15/2026

"Elk Rapids is a hidden gem for an unforgettable getaway." 🥰

This round-up shines a light on some of the places that make Elk Rapids so special! It’s always a good day to explore and support the businesses that keep our community thriving.

Art Rapids! Walk of Art Sculpture Park
Twisted Fish Gallery
Tiny Traveling Boutique
Northwind Blooms
Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen
Cellar 152 Pub and Provisions
The Dexter Hotel
White Birch Lodge
Paradise Pines Resort
Elk Rapids Lakeshore Inn

Michigan has no shortage of charming small towns, and this bayside beauty full of art, shopping, and great eats is one of the state's best hidden gems.

04/14/2026

It’s a misty morning here in Downtown Elk Rapids! We’re seeing (and hearing!) signs of spring: Our feathered neighbors are singing and the first blooms are making an appearance. 🌱 💦

01/12/2026

Elk Rapids' own Ethanology Distillation and Bos Wine are teaming up with The Village at Grand Traverse Commons' Trattoria Stella and Left Foot Charley Winery for "Village to Village" — special events, tastings, and conversations to keep us warm all winter long! ❄️

Thanks to Northern Express for the spotlight! 🌟

The Village at Grand Traverse Commons and the Village of Elk Rapids are about 20 miles apart. Not a long drive on a summer’s day, but a less-travele…