GEM Car Tour with Mushroom House Tours in Charlevoix
Difficulty
easy
Duration
45–50 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; no physical exertion required
Overview
Discover Charlevoix’s unique Mushroom Houses aboard a slow-paced electric tour with Mushroom House Tours. Learn local lore, architecture, and Petoskey Stone secrets on this relaxed, family-friendly ride.
GEM Car Tour with Mushroom House Tours in Charlevoix
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking near the tour pickup can fill quickly; plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to secure a spot within walking distance.
Dress for the Weather
The open-sided golf cart offers minimal shelter — bring a jacket on cooler days and sun protection during warmer months.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
Some details on the houses can be difficult to see from the cart; a zoom lens or binoculars help capture the finer architectural quirks.
Respect Private Property
Certain Mushroom Houses have 'No Tour' signs. Guides avoid these spots to honor residents’ privacy — observe but don’t linger.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-tailed deer often roam near wooded areas around town.
- Local songbirds like chickadees and finches are abundant in the neighborhood trees.
History
The Mushroom Houses were built between 1912 and 1942 by Earl Young, who used local stone and traditional craft methods to create these unconventional structures.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve these unique homes include respecting privacy requests and minimizing disturbances during tours to protect both residents and the historic architecture.
Select participants and date
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Adjust for changing temperatures since the open-sided cart offers little wind protection.
all specific
Wide-brim Hat
Provides shade and helps reduce glare while viewing outdoor sites.
summer specific
Compact Binoculars
Helps spot detailed stone work and distant points of interest during the tour.
all specific
Camera or Smartphone with Zoom
For capturing photos of unique architecture and Petoskey Stones along the route.
all specific