Benzonia is a small, rural town located in Benzie County, Michigan. The town has a population of about 1,000, and is known for its outdoor recreation and scenic beauty. The nearby Crystal Lake and Lake Michigan offer plenty of opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking and swimming. With its rolling hills, forests and farms, Benzonia is a peaceful haven located in the heart of Northern Michigan.
1. Benzonia Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Benzonia and its surrounding areas provide plenty of great parks and trails to explore on a first date. Benzie County's Crystal Lake State Park offers several hiking trails, including the 1.5-mile Stone Turtle Nature Trail and the 3-mile Crystal Lake Trail, which features views of Lake Michigan. In Benzonia itself, Clinch Park offers access to the Betsie River, as well as picnic tables, grills and biking trails. For a longer hike, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a great option, with plenty of trails and views of Lake Michigan.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Benzonia
If you’re looking for a casual coffee date, Benzonia has a few great spots for a cup of joe. The Cherry Hut Coffee Shop and Petunia’s Cafe both serve up espresso drinks, pastries, and breakfast sandwiches. Petunia’s also offers lunch items and some local beers on tap. If you’d like to grab coffee to go, try Creek Cafe, where you can pick up coffee and other goodies to take on an outdoor adventure.
3. Benzonia Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
Benzonia and its surrounding areas are home to several galleries and museums. For a traditional date, visit the Benzie Shores District Library, which features regular art exhibitions and special events. For more casual fare, check out the Betsie Valley Antique Mall, which offers a variety of antiques, including furniture, toys, books, coins and more. For a unique experience, visit the Crystal Mountain resort, which offers an art gallery, a wine and beer garden, and an outdoor adventure center.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Benzonia
Benzonia offers plenty of live music, from rock and blues bands to folk and bluegrass groups. The Live at the Lake Concert Series at Crystal Mountain Resort is a popular option for live music, with concerts taking place throughout the summer. In town, the Kalkaska County Fairgrounds hosts an annual music festival featuring a variety of local bands. For more local entertainment, the Pine Cone Theatre offers live theatre performances throughout the year.
5. Benzonia Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
Benzonia offers a variety of pubs, bars and restaurants for a first date drink or meal. The Mess Hall is a great spot for craft beer and pub fare, while the Thunderbird Cafe offers a casual atmosphere and pizza. For a more upscale option, try La Becasse, which serves French-inspired cuisine. The local brewery, Stormcloud Brewing Company, has a tasting room where you can sample their beer and enjoy live music.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Benzonia
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique for your first date, Benzonia has plenty to offer. Check out the interactive exhibits at the Michigan Legacy Art Park, which has sculptures, art installations, and a labyrinth. Or, for a relaxing outdoor experience, head over to the Crystal Lake Nature Center, which offers kayak rentals, guided nature hikes, and geocaching. You can also take a guided tour of the historic Fort Custer or explore the Benzie Shores District Library’s local archives and genealogy records.
