The picturesque town of Harbor Springs sits along the north shore of Little Traverse Bay. Once a bustling settlement and trading port for furs, fish, and lumber, and later a summer resort and commercial freight harbor, it remains a popular vacation destination. Its well-sheltered, deep-water harbor (with depths exceeding 250 feet) attracts recreational boaters and offers full provisioning, marine repair services, boating events, as well as a variety of historic and scenic attractions.

Strolling through Wequetonsing, the residential area along Beach Drive just west of the downtown marinas, reveals charming late 19th-century Victorian "cottages" that make for an especially memorable walk. Main Street, just a block from the marinas, features everything from ice cream and fudge shops to high-end art galleries, boutiques, and clothing stores.

Friday Night Music in the Park happens on five Friday nights throughout July and August in Marina Park on the waterfront. On Thursday evenings during the summer, Street Musique fills downtown outdoor venues with live performances, while mid-September visitors can savor local flavors at the annual Taste of Harbor Springs culinary celebration. The Little Traverse Sailors is a non-profit organization that teaches sailing June-August and plays a vital role in the area's sailboat racing community. Watch (and watch out for) the LTS boats and junior sailors.

Natural artesian wells and springs bubble up into drinking fountains throughout town, and nearby parks, hiking and biking trails, and beaches provide abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. For more information on attractions, activities, events, shopping, and dining, contact the Chamber of Commerce for the latest on downtown events (231-526-7999) or go to Visit Harbor Springs online. The Little Traverse Bay Ferry runs service between Harbor Springs and Petoskey.