Elk Rapids is where the Chain of Lakes opens into Lake Michigan with Elk Lake, Bass Lake and Elk River providing ample boating cum fishing opportunities with many public marinas. The shorelines are residential and are lined with houses and condos that enjoy fresh lake breezes; other vacation rentals and cottages lie in the village within minutes to downtown. You can enjoy sunny picnics at Antrim County Barnes Park with sandy shore beaches and at Elk Rapids Historical Museum one can learn all about the port history. The south-west Cherry Capital and tourist hub of Traverse City is quite close by and so is Bellaire, a little up in the north.

Walk the shoreline boardwalk watching the ship crafts passing by the docks of Grace Memorial Harbor; swim and sunbathe at the sandy shores or indulge in water sports and fishing in the surrounding lakes; there is even the splendid golf course of Elk Rapids Golf Club that overlooks Elk Lake. Recreations apart, simply enjoy the scenic beauty while you browse the charmingly old-fashioned shops or dine at the restaurants with a holiday in one of the pleasing Elk Rapids vacation rentals.