Life Up North

Got 5 Minutes…? A Perfect Evening Out

While nature surrounds when you’re staying at Indigo Bluffs, you’re never far from the comforts and delights of fine dining and upscale entertainment. Just a quick trip into Traverse City opens up a world of possibilities for a memorable evening out. Start your night at the brewpub preferred by locals, Rare Bird. Inside you will find a comfortable atmosphere, all the craft beers you could want and appetizers to die for. When you are ready for the main course, head to the water and Apache Trout Grill for a meal with a view. Situated on West Grand Traverse Bay, Apache

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Got 5 Minutes…? Coffee

Got 5 Minutes…? Traverse City CoffeeWhile Traverse City fairly draws rave reviews for its food and wine scene, a short drive into town can provide you with some of the best java in the state. Start with a downtown favorite in Morsels. They pair delicious bite sized desserts with espresso and coffee from world famous Intelligentsia Coffee roasters. From there, a quick stroll through beautiful Downtown TC (Official) will bring you to BLK MRKT in the Warehouse MRKT. Sip your coffee as you wander through their interesting and eclectic shops. Finally, cap off your coffee crawl with area icon Higher Grounds Trading Co.. With the roasters attached and a

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Got 5 Minutes?… Hiking Pyramid Point

Got 5 Minutes…? Hiking Pyramid Point Ask any native or regular visitor, there is no view in Northern Michigan like Pyramid Point. The journey from Indigo Bluffs to the trailhead is one you won’t soon forget. Winding roads will take you through the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore​. You will cross between the two Glen Lakes and have a view of the famous dune climb off to your left. You will carry on through the village of Glen Arbor and experience all that is M22. From the trailhead, the journey upwards mixes beautiful foliage and anticipation. Once at the top,

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Got 5 Minutes…? Dennos Museum

If the finer things appeal to you and you’re seeking a bit of culture, Traverse City beckons you. Begin your adventure with Northwestern Michigan College’s famed Dennos Museum Center. From native art to local showcases and exciting events, there is something to engage everyone in the family. From there, stroll Front Street, hearing the waves crashing on the shore and feeling the sun overhead as you make your way to Traverse City’s finest pastry bakery, Sweet Tartlette. You will indulge with some of their famous macarons and be wowed by the selection of cakes, tarts, and other confections. Eat your treats in or

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Got 5 Minutes…? Frankfort

One of the true gem day trips from Indigo is the quaint village of Frankfort. Start off your adventure with a pop in to Crescent Bakery and Cafe for your baked desire and a cup of coffee from Petals and Perks, before strolling down towards the area’s most engaging beach. The radiantly blue waters and evocative sands make for the perfect place to dip your toes in or pose for an Instagram photo. Capping your night off at Stormcloud Brewing Company for a meal and drinks is the perfect way to wrap up your Frankfort excursion.

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Got 5 Minutes…? Black Star Farms

When life returns to normalcy, we figure to have a renewed sense of appreciation for the simple, timeless things in life. Just a short trip from Indigo Bluffs lies one of the true gems of the area, Black Star Farms. Not only have they been called the best winery in Michigan, but their eats will transport you. They offer award winning aged cheeses, mustards, and hearth and vine wood fired pizzas that can be enjoyed on their peaceful outdoor patio. Their weekly fish boils are also a thing of legend. Top off your edible delights with the perfect glass of

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Got 5 Minutes…? Kayaking

Kayaking through Traverse City

From Indigo, a short five minutes in any direction will take you to exquisite kayaking. Whether its the shores of Lake Michigan or paddling through the serene waters of the Boardman River in downtown Traverse City, it will be an experience you won’t want to forget. It is both a responsible activity during this period of quarantine and a fun way to spend a summer afternoon. After your time on the water, stop by any number of Traverse City’s awesome coffeeshops or brewpubs for refreshments and to keep the good times rolling. It’s all part of an extraordinary Northern Michigan

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Got 5 Minutes…? Fish Town

The Cove in Leland

Just a short drive from Indigo Bluffs is one of the true unique gems of Northern Michigan. The historic Fish Town district of lovely Leland, Michigan offers engagement for all five senses. Begin your day with a stroll over the dam, listening for the sounds of falling waters that have marked this spot for decades. A short walk will take you to the Village Cheese Shanty, where you will be delighted with an assortment local cheeses and sandwiches. After some distinctive shopping opportunities, you can make your way out to the eternal bliss of a Lake Michigan scenic view. Feel

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Got 5 Minutes…? Biking

Got 5 Minutes…? Biking In our corner of the world, four wheels aren’t necessary to have an adventure. Where the pavement ends is often where the real show-stopping scenery begins. If you have five minutes and your own set of wheels, consider any of these amazing trails. Feel the wind at your back and nothing but blue skies above you as you bike through paradise. Stop off at any number of fine coffee shops or bakeries for refreshment before continuing on to more bliss. You will undoubtedly cross paths with stunning water views and wildlife in their natural haunts. A

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Got 5 Minutes …? Sunsets

Got 5 Minutes …Nothing encapsulates everything that is northern Michigan quite like an exquisite Lake Michigan sunset. Though Indigo Bluffs is surrounded by incredible beaches, consider Van’s Beach in Leland for stunning views, the cool feel of sand on your toes, and that iconic sound of waves crashing. After, head downtown for shopping or dining so fine you will need to post photos for your friends to believe.

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Got 5 Minutes …? Photography

Got 5 Minutes … From Indigo Bluffs, five minutes can satisfy even the most skilled photographer’s deepest desires. The area is rich in color and light and is never short on scenery. From snapping photos of the world famous Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive to the abundant wildlife that fills our woods, five minutes can be extremely fulfilling for a shutterbug. Start with our village of Empire and move on to the surrounding sites, for those who live life behind a lens, your next great adventure starts here.

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Got 5 Minutes …? Hiking

South Manitou Island

Got 5 Minutes? …A stone’s throw from Indigo Bluff is a nearly unlimited selection of absolutely stunning hiking. A short drive will provide you with an unmatched ability to commune with nature and lay eyes on timeless, enchanting views. One stop will show you the breadth of Northern Michigan plant life, the next a staggeringly beautiful view of our beloved Lake Michigan. Instagram worthy shots lie around every bend, if you have five minutes to let go and let nature wash over you.

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Got 5 Minutes …? Moomers

Got 5 Minutes? …There are some experiences in life that just can’t be replicated. One of those lies just minutes from Indigo Bluffs at Moomers Homemade Ice Cream. Indulge in unique flavors such as Cherries Moobilee and Cow Tracks. Whether you’re communing with their famous cows, licking your ice cream cone, or posting a photo with the friend you just met in line, everyone in the family will be enchanted by the taste of country. Stay in or take your ice cream just moments north to Greilickville Park and soak in a Grand Traverse Bay sunset. There’s no better way to

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Got 5 Minutes … ? Paddleboarding

Got 5 Minutes? …It takes but moments from Indigo Bluffs to reach the clear and calm waters of Glen Lake. Let the environment wash over you as you paddle out, nothing but a board under your feet and sparkling water to your right and left. You will see the Dunes Climb in the distance and remember in this corner of the world, nothing is impossible. From there, the quaint village of Glen Arbor is just around the corner, offering shopping, dining, and more spectacular views. A five minute drive could lead to family memories forever.

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Got 5 Minutes …? Beach Combing

Got 5 Minutes? ….Just a short scenic drive from Indigo Bluffs lies a beachcombing paradise. While you stroll the serene sands of Lake Michigan, taking in the wind and the waves, there are treasures to be found. Leland Blues, Charlevoix Stones, beach glass, driftwood, and the iconic Petoskey Stones await you as keepsakes of your Sleeping Bear adventures. Within five more minutes, experience the world class chocolate at Grocer’s Daughter Chocolate, in downtown Empire. Relax and indulge over a truffle or hot chocolate. Allow the area to stimulate all five senses for a truly unforgettable getaway.

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COVID-19: Open Dates, Procedures, and Updates

June 13, 2020 Hello Campers!  As Indigo Bluffs enters its 11th season ‘people’ have always been one of our best features. What may not be clear is that we include YOU, our guests, into that calculation. Your courteous and respectful nature could not be more valuable today.  THE POOL IS OPEN !!   Yes, as with most things in our lives today, there are a few changes. We know how well you all follow directions, so this will be a piece of cake.  Bathhouses, Laundry and Playground All of our bathhouses, laundry facilities and the playground are open.  Property-wide Sanitizer Stations You will

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