Petoskey has two distinct seasons. Summer (June through September) is when the resort town comes alive — the Gaslight District fills up, the beaches are active, and the bay water warms enough for swimming by mid-July. July and August are the busiest months, with Chicago and Detroit families arriving for long weekends. Petoskey stone hunting is best in spring and after autumn storms when fresh material is deposited on the beach.
Winter is quiet and cold, with heavy lake-effect snow from Lake Michigan. The ski resorts — Boyne Highlands and Boyne Mountain — are within thirty minutes, which brings a winter crowd. The Gaslight District stays open year-round, though hours are reduced. If you want to see northern Michigan at its most peaceful, visit in May or October — the fall colours in late September and early October are excellent.