Traverse City Area Map
If you’re planning a trip to Michigan, make sure to add Traverse City to your itinerary. Located in the northern part of the Lower Peninsula, Traverse City is a charming city that offers a variety of experiences for all types of travelers. Whether you’re a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a beach bum, you’ll find something to love in Traverse City. To help you plan your trip, we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide that covers the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports. Read on to discover the best things to do in Traverse City!
Top Attractions
Traverse City has a lot of attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular ones:
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most unique and beautiful places in Michigan. The park features towering sand dunes, clear blue waters, and stunning vistas. You can hike, bike, swim, or just relax on the beach. Make sure to climb the Dune Climb for a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan.
The Old Mission Peninsula
The Old Mission Peninsula is a narrow strip of land that juts out into Grand Traverse Bay. The peninsula is known for its scenic beauty, wineries, and historic lighthouse. Take a scenic drive or bike ride along the peninsula and stop at the wineries for a tasting. Make sure to visit the Mission Point Lighthouse, which offers stunning views of the bay.
The Grand Traverse Bay
The Grand Traverse Bay is the largest inland freshwater bay in the world. The bay is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can also take a scenic cruise or kayak tour to explore the bay and its islands.
Hidden Gems
Traverse City has some hidden gems that are off the beaten path. Here are some of our favorites:
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a former state mental hospital that has been repurposed into a mixed-use development. The village features shops, restaurants, galleries, and residential units. Take a guided tour of the historic buildings or explore the hiking trails and gardens that surround the village.
The Leelanau Peninsula
The Leelanau Peninsula is a scenic area that is known for its wineries, orchards, and charming small towns. Take a drive along M-22, which has been named one of the most scenic drives in the country, and stop at the wineries and farm stands along the way.
The Boardman River Trail
The Boardman River Trail is a 5.5-mile hiking and biking trail that follows the Boardman River through the heart of Traverse City. The trail offers scenic views of the river and passes through parks and natural areas.
Food Scene
Traverse City has a thriving food scene that features local and seasonal ingredients. Here are some of the best restaurants in town:
The Cooks’ House
The Cooks’ House is a farm-to-table restaurant that focuses on local and seasonal ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect what’s in season. The restaurant also has a great wine list that features local and international wines.
Trattoria Stella
Trattoria Stella is a charming Italian restaurant that serves homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and other Italian specialties. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that features Italian and local wines.
The Little Fleet
The Little Fleet is a food truck park that features a rotating selection of food trucks and a bar. The park has a fun and casual atmosphere and is a great place to grab a quick bite or a drink.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traverse City can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
Visit in the off-season
Traverse City is a popular summer destination, but it’s also beautiful in the fall and winter. You’ll find lower prices and fewer crowds if you visit in the off-season.
Stay at a budget-friendly hotel
Traverse City has a variety of budget-friendly hotels and motels. Look for hotels that offer free breakfast and other amenities to save money.
Eat at local diners and delis
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to eat well in Traverse City. Look for local diners and delis that offer affordable and delicious meals.
Outdoor Adventures
Traverse City is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best outdoor activities in town:
Hiking
Traverse City has a variety of hiking trails that offer scenic views of the area. Some of the best trails include the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Boardman River Trail, and the Leelanau State Park.
Biking
Traverse City has a network of bike trails that offer scenic views of the area. Some of the best trails include the TART Trail, the Leelanau Trail, and the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.
Water Sports
The Grand Traverse Bay is a popular spot for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. You can also go fishing or take a scenic cruise to explore the bay and its islands.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traverse City is a great destination for families. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities in town:
The Great Wolf Lodge
The Great Wolf Lodge is a water park and hotel that offers fun for the whole family. The park features water slides, pools, and other attractions.
The Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre
The Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre is a nostalgic attraction that offers a unique movie experience. You can watch a movie under the stars while sitting in your car or on a lawn chair.
The Dennos Museum Center
The Dennos Museum Center is a museum that features art from around the world. The museum also has a planetarium and hosts concerts and other events.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique and off the beaten path, Traverse City has plenty of options. Here are some of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences:
The Music House Museum
The Music House Museum is a museum that features antique musical instruments and mechanical music machines. The museum also hosts concerts and other events.
The Sleeping Bear Birding Trail
The Sleeping Bear Birding Trail is a network of birding sites that offer the chance to see a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The trail includes parks, beaches, and other natural areas.
The Interlochen Center for the Arts
The Interlochen Center for the Arts is a world-renowned arts institution that offers concerts, theater productions, and other events. The campus also has a beautiful natural setting that is worth exploring.
Natural Wonders
Traverse City is surrounded by natural wonders that are worth exploring. Here are some of the best natural wonders in the area:
The Sleeping Bear Dunes
The Sleeping Bear Dunes are a natural wonder that features towering sand dunes and stunning vistas of Lake Michigan. You can climb the dunes for a breathtaking view.
The Traverse City State Park
The Traverse City State Park is a beautiful park that features beaches, hiking trails, and other natural attractions. The park is a great place to swim, fish, or just relax on the beach.
The Boardman River
The Boardman River is a scenic river that runs through the heart of Traverse City. You can kayak, fish, or just take a walk along the river to enjoy the natural beauty.
Vibrant Nightlife
Traverse City has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers something for everyone. Here are some of the best nightlife spots in town:
The Workshop Brewing Company
The Workshop Brewing Company is a brewery that features craft beer and food made with local ingredients. The brewery also hosts live music and other events.
The Union Street Station
The Union Street Station is a bar that features live music and a fun and casual atmosphere. The bar also has a rooftop patio that offers great views of the city.
The Rare Bird Brewpub
The Rare Bird Brewpub is a brewpub that features craft beer and food made with local ingredients. The brewpub also hosts live music and other events.
Local Markets
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