Downtown Suttons Bay (M-22) - Image 1
1 / 3

M-22 Suttons Bay

4.6
·491k reviews·Suttons Bay, United States

Drive the legendary M22 highway, a stunning Michigan route with breathtaking lake views and the charming village of Suttons Bay.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant fall colors

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Downtown Suttons Bay (M-22) - Image 1

M-22 Suttons Bay

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant fall colors

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Drive the legendary M22 highway, a stunning Michigan route with breathtaking lake views and the charming village of Suttons Bay.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"The M22 drive offers incredible scenery and a quintessential Michigan road trip experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Plan Your M22 Route

Decide if you'll drive the whole M22 or focus on key sections like Suttons Bay.

☕️ Enjoy Local Breweries

Stop at breweries like Hop Lot for unique experiences like igloo dining.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

M22 Scenic Highway

M22 Scenic Highway

Drive this iconic Michigan route for breathtaking lake views and charming coastal towns.

Suttons Bay Village

Suttons Bay Village

Explore quaint shops, local breweries, and enjoy the serene waterfront of this charming town.

Herman Holiday's Lights

Herman Holiday's Lights

Experience a magical holiday light display just south of Suttons Bay on M22.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Scenic M22 Drive

The M22 highway is a legendary Michigan road trip. Plan to dedicate at least a full day to explore its stunning coastline, charming towns like Suttons Bay, and vibrant fall colors. Consider starting your journey early to maximize daylight and avoid peak crowds, especially during autumn.

Suttons Bay: A Coastal Gem

Suttons Bay offers a picturesque escape with its waterfront views and cozy atmosphere. While the M22 drive is the main draw, take time to wander through the town's shops and enjoy local breweries. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended, particularly during peak seasons.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Vibrant fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Lakeside breezes
Crowd
High
When
Winter evenings
Why
Cozy holiday lights
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A holiday night in Suttons Bay: ❄️Dinner in an igloo. 🔥 Roast a s’more over the fire. 🎅 Stroll the incredible lights display at Herman Holiday’s on Murray Ct (2 miles south on M22). See lights preview towards end of this reel! Free igloo reservation | hoplotbrewing.com #hoplot #suttonsbay #m22 #michigan #puremichigan #leelanau #holiday #igloo #brewery #beergarden
hoplotbrewingco
1.5K likes • 19.4K views

🚗 Plan Your M22 Route

Decide if you'll drive the whole M22 or focus on key sections like Suttons Bay. Reddit

☕️ Enjoy Local Breweries

Stop at breweries like Hop Lot for unique experiences like igloo dining. TikTok

Sounds of Suttons Bay in the morning ✨☀️🌊 #suttonsbay #m22 #michiganawesome #puremichigan
poppythings
98 likes • 2.1K views
Mini road trip alert!🚨 Don’t forget to drive down M-22 today 🍂🍁❤️ Here’s the view from TC up to Suttons bay! Head to MyNorth.com or MyNorth.com/northern-michigan-fall/ (link also in bio) for more of our favorite fall tips and can’t-miss adventures! ✨ . . . #Fall #Autumn #MichiganFall #FallColor #FallColorTour #M22 #Roadtrip #MyNorth #MyNorthMedia #Traverse #TraverseMagazine #PureMichigan #Suttons...
mynorthmedia
268 likes • 6.6K views

📸 Capture the Views

The M22 drive offers stunning photo opportunities, especially in autumn. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Suttons Bay

Take time to explore the charming shops and waterfront of Suttons Bay village. Instagram

reddit.com

First time staying in Sutton’s Bay area. What outdoor places and activities would you recommend?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Plan Your M22 Route

Decide if you'll drive the whole M22 or focus on key sections like Suttons Bay. Reddit

☕️ Enjoy Local Breweries

Stop at breweries like Hop Lot for unique experiences like igloo dining. TikTok

📸 Capture the Views

The M22 drive offers stunning photo opportunities, especially in autumn. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Suttons Bay

Take time to explore the charming shops and waterfront of Suttons Bay village. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of the M22 highway and the charming atmosphere of Suttons Bay. The scenic drives, especially during fall, are a major highlight, though some find the roads can be winding. The unique dining experiences, like igloos at Hop Lot, are also frequently praised.

What People Like

Breathtaking scenic drives
Charming village atmosphere
Unique dining experiences

What People Dislike

Winding roads
Seasonal crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Suttons Bay is accessible via the scenic M22 highway, which hugs the Lake Michigan coastline. If coming from Flint, you can drive to the M22 route and decide whether to explore the entire highway or focus on specific sections like the drive up to Suttons Bay. Reddit

Many travelers recommend driving at least part of the M22, especially the stretch around Suttons Bay, for its beautiful views. Consider starting early to enjoy the scenery without the rush. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! M22 is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and vibrant fall colors, making it a top Michigan road trip. Instagram

While M22 is a loop, many start from areas like Traverse City and head north towards Suttons Bay, or vice versa. The choice depends on how much time you have and what you want to see. Reddit

M22 is a well-maintained highway, but it can be winding and narrow in sections. Drive cautiously, especially during peak seasons or inclement weather. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, driving the M22 highway itself is free. There are no specific tickets required to access the scenic route. Instagram

Suttons Bay village is a public area, so there are no entrance fees to walk around and explore its streets and waterfront. Instagram

Yes, free igloo reservations are available at Hop Lot Brewing in Suttons Bay. It's recommended to book these in advance via their website. TikTok

The Herman Holiday's lights display on M22 near Suttons Bay is generally free to view, offering a magical holiday experience. TikTok

Shop hours in Suttons Bay can vary by season and individual business. It's best to check specific store hours online or call ahead, especially outside of peak summer months.

📸 📸 Photography

Look for pull-offs along the coastline for stunning lake views. The village of Suttons Bay itself offers charming street scenes and waterfront shots. Autumn foliage provides incredible backdrops. Instagram

Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the M22's scenic beauty. Midday can be bright but still offers clear views of the lake. Instagram

Yes, Hop Lot Brewing is a picturesque spot, especially with its igloos and fire pits. Be sure to capture the unique atmosphere. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant shoreline features. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant lake shots. Instagram

Generally, photography is welcomed in public areas of Suttons Bay. Always be respectful of private property and individuals when taking photos. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Suttons Bay offers a variety of dining options, from casual pubs to restaurants with lake views. Hop Lot Brewing is a popular spot for food and drinks, especially their unique igloo dining experience. TikTok

Yes, Hop Lot Brewing in Suttons Bay is a highly recommended stop for craft beer and a unique atmosphere. TikTok

You'll find a range of options, including pub fare, seafood, and American cuisine. Many establishments focus on fresh, local ingredients. Instagram

Many restaurants in Suttons Bay are family-friendly, offering diverse menus that cater to various tastes. Casual eateries are plentiful. Instagram

Yes, there are numerous scenic pull-offs and small parks along M22 where you can enjoy a picnic with beautiful views of the lake. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Suttons Bay and the M22 drive offer family-friendly fun. Consider visiting during the summer months when the weather is ideal for exploring the waterfront and enjoying outdoor activities. The Herman Holiday's lights display in winter provides a magical experience for children. TikTok

Look for casual dining options in Suttons Bay that cater to younger palates. Many of the scenic pull-offs along M22 are perfect for a quick break or a picnic lunch, allowing kids to stretch their legs and enjoy the views. Instagram

🚗 Road Trippers

The M22 highway is a bucket-list road trip for many. Plan for at least a full day to truly appreciate the scenery and stop in towns like Suttons Bay. Consider driving the entire loop or focusing on the northern section for its iconic views. InstagramReddit

Download offline maps as cell service can be spotty in some areas. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for winding roads. The fall season is particularly spectacular for a M22 road trip due to the vibrant foliage. Instagram

🍂 Fall Color Enthusiasts

Autumn is arguably the peak season for the M22 drive, with Suttons Bay being a prime location to witness the spectacular fall colors. The M22 highway transforms into a breathtaking tunnel of reds, oranges, and yellows. Instagram

Plan your visit for late September to mid-October for the most vibrant foliage. Be prepared for crowds, as this is a popular time for leaf-peeping tours. Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the busiest weekend traffic. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legendary M22 Drive

The M22 highway is more than just a road; it's a quintessential Michigan experience. Stretching over 100 miles along the Lake Michigan shoreline, it's renowned for its dramatic vistas, charming lakeside towns, and vibrant fall colors. Travelers often debate whether to drive the entire route or focus on specific, highly recommended sections like the stretch leading to Suttons Bay. InstagramReddit

This scenic byway offers a journey through diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches and rolling dunes to dense forests and picturesque vineyards. It's a route best savored, with plenty of opportunities to stop, explore, and soak in the natural beauty. Planning your drive around sunrise or sunset can provide particularly magical lighting for photos. Instagram

When planning your M22 adventure, consider the time of year. Autumn transforms the landscape into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a prime destination for fall color tours. Instagram However, summer offers warm weather perfect for enjoying the lakeshore and water activities. Even winter has its charm, with potential for snow-dusted scenery and festive light displays like those found near Suttons Bay. TikTok

Exploring Suttons Bay Village

Suttons Bay is a delightful coastal village nestled along the M22 highway, offering a perfect blend of small-town charm and scenic beauty. The heart of the village is its vibrant downtown area, lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and local eateries. A leisurely stroll through these streets provides a glimpse into the relaxed pace of life here. Instagram

The waterfront is a major draw, with a picturesque harbor and public access points offering stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay. It’s an ideal spot for a morning walk, an afternoon picnic, or simply to watch the boats go by. The town also boasts several local breweries, with Hop Lot Brewing being a notable mention for its unique outdoor seating and seasonal offerings, including igloos for a cozy dining experience. TikTok

Suttons Bay serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Leelanau Peninsula, known for its wineries and orchards. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a base for adventure along the M22, Suttons Bay offers a welcoming and memorable experience. Instagram

You may also like