What Is There to Do at The Highlands in Summer?
The Highlands isn’t just a winter destination. When the snow melts and the summer breeze returns, The Highlands turns into a summer playground offering golf, mountain biking, hiking, live dinner theatre, and family-friendly activities.
Outdoor Adventures at the Resort
Whether you want to take the day at a gentle pace or just send it, you can choose your own adventure here.
Golf: Four award-winning golf courses, including The Heather (a Robert Trent Jones classic), Arthur Hills, Donald Ross Memorial, and The Moor, offer beautiful and challenging rounds with epic views.
Mountain Biking: Lift-served trails and cross-country paths wind through the resort's forests and hills, catering to everyone from casual riders to adrenaline junkies.
Hiking: Scenic trails for all skill levels let you explore northern Michigan’s natural beauty.
Scenic Chairlift Rides: Take a ride to the top and experience a bird’s-eye view of Little Traverse Bay, Harbor Springs, and hiking trails.
Family-Friendly Activities
Spend some quality time together, soak up the sunshine, and challenge the kids to a game of ring toss. When the evening rolls around, our back lawn is filled with kids playing, mom and dad relaxing on the Slopeside Patio, and all-around good vibes. Think s’mores, yard games, and plenty of room to roam.
Looking for a little daytime adventure? Paddle out on the pond in a kayak or canoe. It’s a calm, easygoing way to explore and let the kids try something new. Then cool off with a dip in our outdoor pools or soak in the hot tubs while the sun sets.
More Summer Experiences
Doon Brae and Back Yaird
Designed by renowned Michigan architect Ray Hearn, Doon Brae is a new par-3 short course featuring a variety of fairway lies — downhill, uphill, flat, and sidehill. Set along the lower ski slopes and fully lit for nighttime play, it’s built for imaginative tee shots, relaxed vibes, and fun for all skill levels. Perfect for a laid-back evening or family round.
Right nearby, you’ll find The Back Yaird- a 27-hole Himalayan-style putting course spread across 1.5 acres of rolling green. With swooping curves and no straight lines to the hole, it is equal parts fun and challenge, great for kids, grown-ups, and anyone who likes a little friendly competition.
The Young Americans Dinner Theatre
A summer classic that’s as much a tradition as it is a performance, The Young Americans Dinner Theatre brings big talent to our cozy venue.
This year's show, American Jukebox, is a high-energy tribute to American music through the decades. It is a night of live music, fun moments, and a three-course meal you won't have to cook or clean up.
- Lodging guests can enjoy $20 off adult tickets
- Youth pricing is $39, and kids 5 and under are free!
Nearby Exploration
If you feel like exploring beyond the resort, you are in a great spot. Spend an afternoon at Pond Hill Farm, where kids can meet the animals and grown-ups can sample cider or wine. Take a short drive into Harbor Springs or Petoskey for boutique shopping, art galleries, and lake views. Or hit the beach for a day of swimming and skipping stones- Zoll Street Beach and Petoskey State Park are both easy options.
Ready to start planning? Explore our lodging options or check out more blogs to help map out your stay.