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Welcome to Gaylord, Michigan!

An outdoor paradise for every season and every pursuit.

Breathe in fresh forest air and glide along pristine waterways in Gaylord, Michigan. Here, there’s enough room to roam and enough unspoiled wilderness to go around! Located in the heart of northern Michigan, Gaylord is the perfect place to gear up for adventure and unwind in nature. Bountiful forest trails, winding rivers, over 90 sparkling inland lakes, and four seasons make Gaylord the ultimate outdoor playground.

Summer in Gaylord, Michigan is pure bliss! It’s time to get outdoors and explore our trail systems, lakes and rivers and vast expanses of forest. Along with our natural resources, you’ll love visiting our bustling downtown to shop, dine and even catch a free concert on Friday evenings. Join us for serene outdoor activities, a slew of special events and unique up north experiences while appreciating all the heart of Michigan has to offer.

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7 Reasons to Visit this Summer

Biking

Gaylord is recognized as a top biking destination! The scene here is diverse, from picturesque paved routes to undulating single tracks at Aspen Park, Shingle Mill Pathway and Pine Baron Pathway to the crown jewel of all trails – the North Central State Trail. 

BIKING BLISS

7 Reasons to Visit this Summer

Hiking

If you lack pedal power but still want to hit the trails, hiking is the way to go! Gaylord’s trails are diverse and range from rolling hills and open fields to heavily wooded forests full of wildlife.

Find Your PATHway

7 Reasons to Visit this Summer

Elk Viewing

While you’re out enjoying Gaylord’s plentiful trail systems, keep your eyes peeled to catch a glimpse of one of the largest free-roaming elk herds east of the Mississippi. Or, for a guaranteed sighting, head to the City Elk Park, just a few blocks from the downtown district

ELK VIEWING

7 Reasons to Visit this Summer

Lakes & Rivers

If being on the water is more your style, you’ll be happy to know that Otsego County is home to over 90 inland lakes and the headwaters of 5 major rivers. You’ll find countless places to launch your kayak, reel in your catch of the day or simply soak up some rays on a strip of white sand.

Lake Life

7 Reasons to Visit this Summer

Downtown

While Gaylord is a haven for outdoor lovers, sometimes you need a little slice of civilization to recharge. With a recently remodeled streetscape, trendy new eateries and unique stores with up north charm, there’s definitely a new vibe downtown!

The Alpine Village

7 Reasons to Visit this Summer

Events & Festivals

It wouldn’t be a summer road trip without events and festivals! Browse our events calendar for activities including  Gus Macker, Alpenfest. the Otsego Lake Fly-In, Michaywe Arts & Crafts Fair, Otsego County Fair, fireworks and celebrations for all ages!

Special Event calendar

7 Reasons to Visit this Summer

Lodging

The best way to end your day is by resting in comfort with one of our lodging members. Offering accommodations from resorts and cabins to vacation homes and trusted hotels, you’ll find the perfect pillow to catch your zzz’s in Gaylord.

Blissful slumber

Downtown Summer Concert Series

Get ready to groove your way into the weekend all summer long! Our outdoor summer music series in Gaylord will be happening every Friday night. That’s 15 free concerts right downtown (minus Alpenfest weekend). These family-friendly events start at 7:00 pm in Claude Shannon Park. If you think you’ll need a break from dancing, don’t forget to BYOC (bring your own chair). Drinks and food are available just steps away at our downtown locations.  

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Events

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Downtown

Hit the Town

Gaylord may be known the world over for its outdoor recreation opportunities, but that’s only half the charm. Shop, sip, sample, and savor the best of Gaylord’s downtown scene.

Come On Down

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