Did you know that Traverse City, Michigan produces over 75% of the nation’s tart cherries, earning its well-deserved title as the “Cherry Capital of the World”? This charming lakeside destination nestled on Michigan’s Lower Peninsula offers far more than just delicious fruit. With its crystal-clear waters, rolling sand dunes, award-winning wineries, and vibrant cultural scene, Traverse City has emerged as one of the Midwest’s premier vacation spots. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or simply a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty, this northern Michigan gem delivers unforgettable experiences in every season.
Getting to Traverse City
Traverse City is accessible by air, land, and even water for those with private boats. Most visitors arrive via Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) or by driving through Michigan’s scenic highways.
By Air
Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) serves Traverse City with direct flights from major cities including Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis, and New York. During summer months, the airport expands service to over 20 U.S. cities. Flight times are typically short from Midwest hubs, making weekend getaways entirely feasible.
For the best deals on flights to Traverse City, compare options across multiple airlines. Search for flights well in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak summer season or during popular events like the National Cherry Festival.
By Car
Driving to Traverse City offers the chance to enjoy Michigan’s beautiful landscapes. From Chicago, the drive takes approximately 5 hours via US-131 N through Grand Rapids. Detroit residents can reach Traverse City in about 4 hours via I-75 N and then west across the state.
For a more scenic route, consider taking US-31 N along Lake Michigan’s eastern shoreline, passing through charming beach towns like Saugatuck, Ludington, and Manistee. If you’re coming from the Upper Peninsula, you’ll cross the magnificent 5-mile Mackinac Bridge before heading south to Traverse City.
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Best Time to Visit Traverse City
Traverse City experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique attractions and activities. Your ideal visiting time depends on what experiences you’re seeking.
Summer (June-August)
Peak season brings warm temperatures (70-85°F/21-29°C), perfect for beach activities, water sports, and outdoor dining. The National Cherry Festival in early July draws huge crowds, as does the Traverse City Film Festival later in the month. Accommodations book quickly and prices peak, but the vibrant atmosphere and perfect weather make summer the most popular time to visit.
Fall (September-October)
Many locals consider fall the perfect time to visit. Temperatures cool to 45-70°F (7-21°C), crowds thin out, and the surrounding forests explode with spectacular red, orange, and gold foliage. Wine harvest season means bustling activity at local vineyards, and farm markets overflow with apples, pumpkins, and other autumn produce. Hotel rates begin to drop after Labor Day.
Spring (April-May)
Spring brings cherry blossoms that transform the region into a breathtaking display of white and pink flowers, typically in mid-May. Temperatures range from 40-65°F (4-18°C). While some attractions may have limited hours, spring offers great value for accommodations and a more peaceful experience. The stunning blossoms make for incredible photo opportunities, especially along scenic drives.
What about winter in Traverse City?
Winter (November-March) transforms Traverse City into a snow-covered wonderland with temperatures ranging from 15-35°F (-9 to 2°C). While some businesses reduce hours or close seasonally, winter offers unique experiences including downhill skiing at nearby resorts, cross-country skiing on scenic trails, snowshoeing, and ice fishing. The Traverse City Winter Comedy Festival brings entertainment during the colder months. Accommodations offer their lowest rates during this season, making it ideal for budget travelers who enjoy winter activities.
Getting Around Traverse City
While downtown Traverse City is walkable, having transportation is essential for exploring the region’s many attractions spread across the peninsulas and countryside.
Rental Cars
A rental car provides the most flexibility for exploring Traverse City and its surrounding attractions. Having your own vehicle is particularly important if you plan to visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, tour the wineries on Old Mission or Leelanau Peninsulas, or explore the charming small towns in the region. Most major rental companies have offices at Cherry Capital Airport.
For the best rates and vehicle selection, book your rental car in advance, especially during summer months when demand is highest.
Alternative Transportation
If you’re staying primarily in downtown Traverse City, you have several other options:
- BATA Bus: The Bay Area Transportation Authority operates routes throughout the city and to some outlying areas. The City Loop costs $4.50 for a day pass.
- Bike Rentals: Traverse City is bike-friendly with dedicated paths like the TART Trail. Several shops offer daily rentals, including Brick Wheels and McLain Cycle & Fitness.
- Ride Services: Uber and Lyft operate in Traverse City, though availability can be limited during peak times and in rural areas.
- Wine Tours: Several companies offer guided wine tours with transportation included, eliminating the need for a designated driver.
Where to Stay in Traverse City
Traverse City offers accommodations for every preference and budget, from luxury waterfront resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals with stunning views.
Downtown
Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of Front Street’s shops, restaurants, and breweries, plus easy access to Clinch Park Beach. The historic Park Place Hotel offers a rooftop lounge with bay views, while Hotel Indigo provides modern accommodations overlooking the water. For a more intimate experience, consider the Wellington Inn Bed & Breakfast, housed in a beautifully restored 1905 neoclassical mansion.
Waterfront Properties
For those prioritizing beach access, properties along East and West Grand Traverse Bay offer rooms with stunning water views. The Delamar Traverse City features both indoor and outdoor pools plus a restaurant with bay views. Sugar Beach Resort Hotel provides a private beach and heated indoor pool just a short drive from downtown. These properties typically command premium rates, especially during summer.
Vacation Rentals
For families or extended stays, vacation rentals provide more space and amenities like kitchens and private outdoor areas. Options range from downtown condos to lakefront cottages and rural farmhouses. Many rentals on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas offer spectacular water views and proximity to wineries. Book well in advance for summer stays, as the best properties fill quickly.
Find Your Perfect Traverse City Accommodation
From waterfront resorts to cozy cottages, secure the ideal place to stay during your northern Michigan adventure.
Top Attractions in Traverse City
Traverse City’s diverse attractions appeal to nature lovers, foodies, history buffs, and culture seekers alike. Here are the must-visit spots that should be on every traveler’s itinerary.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Named “The Most Beautiful Place in America” by Good Morning America, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-visit natural wonder just 25 miles west of Traverse City. This 70,000-acre national park features massive sand dunes that tower up to 450 feet above Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the crystal-clear waters below.
What to Do at Sleeping Bear Dunes
- Dune Climb: Challenge yourself to climb the towering main dune—it’s steeper than it looks! The reward at the top is an incredible view of Glen Lake’s turquoise waters.
- Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive: This 7.4-mile drive features 12 stops with interpretive displays and spectacular viewpoints, including a perched dune with a 450-foot drop to Lake Michigan.
- Hiking Trails: Over 100 miles of trails range from easy walks to challenging hikes. Empire Bluff Trail (1.5 miles) and Pyramid Point (1.2 miles) offer stunning lake views for relatively minimal effort.
- Glen Haven Historic Village: Explore this restored 1920s logging village with its general store, blacksmith shop, and maritime museum.
Visitor Tip: Purchase a National Park Pass in advance or pay the $25 per vehicle entrance fee (valid for 7 days). Visit early morning or evening during summer to avoid crowds. The Dune Climb is strenuous—bring water and proper footwear.
Experience Sleeping Bear Dunes
Join a guided tour to learn about the geology, history, and legends of this natural wonder.
Wine Tasting on the Peninsulas
Traverse City has emerged as one of America’s most exciting wine regions, with over 40 wineries spread across the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas. Located on the 45th parallel—the same latitude as renowned wine regions in France and Italy—the area’s unique microclimate created by Lake Michigan produces award-winning cool-climate wines, particularly Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc.
Old Mission Peninsula Wineries
This narrow 19-mile peninsula divides Grand Traverse Bay and features 10 wineries along M-37, all within a 20-minute drive from downtown Traverse City. Notable stops include:
- Chateau Grand Traverse: One of Michigan’s oldest wineries, known for exceptional Rieslings and ice wine.
- Brys Estate: Features a stunning deck overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay and a “Secret Garden” with lavender fields.
- 2 Lads Winery: A modern facility specializing in cool-climate reds and sparkling wines with floor-to-ceiling windows offering bay views.
Leelanau Peninsula Wineries
The larger Leelanau Peninsula hosts over 25 wineries spread across picturesque countryside. Highlights include:
- Black Star Farms: An agricultural destination with a winery, luxury inn, and farm-to-table café.
- Shady Lane Cellars: Housed in a 100-year-old fieldstone chicken coop with beautiful gardens.
- MAWBY: Specializes exclusively in sparkling wines produced using traditional methods.
Explore Traverse City Wine Country
Leave the driving to someone else and enjoy a guided wine tour of the region’s best vineyards.
Downtown Traverse City
The heart of Traverse City is its vibrant downtown centered around Front Street, a charming thoroughfare lined with historic buildings housing unique shops, restaurants, breweries, and cultural attractions. Just steps from Grand Traverse Bay, downtown offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and small-town charm.
Shopping & Dining
Front Street and the surrounding blocks feature dozens of locally-owned boutiques selling everything from Michigan-made products to upscale clothing and home goods. Must-visit shops include:
- Cherry Republic: A Michigan institution offering all things cherry—from chocolates and salsas to wines and sodas.
- Horizon Books: A sprawling independent bookstore perfect for browsing on rainy days.
- M22: Apparel and accessories featuring the iconic M-22 highway logo that has become a symbol of northern Michigan lifestyle.
The culinary scene ranges from casual cafés to fine dining establishments showcasing local ingredients. Don’t miss the farm-to-table cuisine at The Cook’s House, creative dishes at Modern Bird, or the food truck variety at The Little Fleet.
Cultural Attractions
Downtown Traverse City offers several cultural and historical points of interest:
- State Theatre & Bijou by the Bay: Historic theaters renovated and programmed by filmmaker Michael Moore, hosting the Traverse City Film Festival each summer.
- City Opera House: A beautifully restored 1891 Victorian opera house offering concerts, lectures, and performances.
- Dennos Museum Center: Features one of the largest collections of Inuit art in the United States, plus changing exhibits of contemporary art.
- Clinch Park: A 1,500-foot sandy beach right downtown with a splash pad for children and kayak rentals.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
One of Traverse City’s most unique attractions is The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, a Victorian-Italianate complex that once housed the Northern Michigan Asylum. This massive historic preservation project has transformed the former mental institution into a vibrant mixed-use development featuring restaurants, boutiques, galleries, and residences.
The main building, known as Building 50, features soaring ceilings, brick arches, and cream-colored brick walls. Visitors can explore the shopping promenade housing businesses like:
- Left Foot Charley: An urban winery producing award-winning wines and ciders.
- Trattoria Stella: A renowned farm-to-table Italian restaurant in the former asylum’s basement.
- Boutique shops: Offering everything from artisanal chocolates to local artwork and clothing.
The grounds include 480 acres of preserved parkland with hiking and biking trails winding through forests and past historic buildings. For those interested in the property’s fascinating history, guided tours are available that include access to unrenovated areas and underground steam tunnels.
Discover the History of Grand Traverse Commons
Take a guided historical tour of this fascinating property and its underground tunnels.
Outdoor Activities in Traverse City
With 181 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and countless inland lakes, rivers, and forests, Traverse City is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts in every season.
Water Activities
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Traverse City offer endless opportunities for aquatic adventures:
- Beaches: Clinch Park downtown offers 1,500 feet of sandy beach with amenities. Bryant Park on West Bay and East Bay Park provide quieter alternatives.
- Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Rent equipment from Paddle TC or The River Outfitters to explore Grand Traverse Bay or the Boardman River, which flows through downtown.
- Sailing: Take a sunset cruise on Grand Traverse Bay aboard a tall ship with Traverse Tall Ship Company or charter a private sailing experience.
- Fishing: The region offers world-class fishing for salmon, trout, bass, and walleye. Charter services operate from marinas around the bay.
Experience Traverse City by Water
Book a guided kayak tour to explore the shoreline and crystal clear waters.
Hiking & Biking
Traverse City boasts an extensive network of trails for all skill levels:
- TART Trails: The Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails include over 100 miles of multi-use paths connecting Traverse City to surrounding communities.
- Leelanau Trail: This 17-mile paved trail connects Traverse City to Suttons Bay, passing through forests, farms, and vineyards.
- Vasa Pathway: Popular with mountain bikers and trail runners, this system offers loops of varying distances through state forest land.
- Brown Bridge Quiet Area: Features 6 miles of trails along the Boardman River with minimal crowds.
Bike rentals are available from several downtown shops including Brick Wheels and McLain Cycle & Fitness.
Winter Activities
When snow blankets the region, Traverse City transforms into a winter playground:
- Downhill Skiing: Mt. Holiday and Hickory Hills offer skiing and snowboarding within minutes of downtown. Larger resorts like Shanty Creek and Crystal Mountain are within an hour’s drive.
- Cross-Country Skiing: The Vasa Pathway maintains groomed trails for classic and skate skiing, hosting the annual North American Vasa ski race.
- Snowshoeing: Many hiking trails transform into perfect snowshoeing routes, with rentals available at local outfitters.
- Ice Fishing: The bays and inland lakes offer excellent ice fishing opportunities for perch, walleye, and pike when conditions permit.
Food and Drink in Traverse City
Traverse City has earned national recognition as a culinary destination, with a food scene that celebrates the region’s agricultural bounty and creative chefs who transform local ingredients into memorable dining experiences.
Cherry Delights
As the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City celebrates its signature fruit in countless culinary creations. Don’t leave without trying:
- Cherry Pie: Grand Traverse Pie Company serves award-winning cherry pies that perfectly balance sweet and tart flavors.
- Cherry Ice Cream: Moomers Homemade Ice Cream, named “America’s Best Scoop” by Good Morning America, offers several cherry flavors made with local fruit.
- Cherry BBQ Sauce: Local restaurants use cherry-infused barbecue sauces that add a unique Michigan twist to smoked meats.
- Cherry Wine: Sample cherry wines and fruit brandies at local wineries like Chateau Grand Traverse.
- Cherry Products: Visit Cherry Republic’s flagship store to browse over 200 cherry products from chocolate-covered cherries to cherry salsa.
- Cherry Chicken Salad: A northern Michigan classic featuring dried cherries, often served on sandwiches throughout town.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Traverse City’s proximity to farms, orchards, and the waters of Lake Michigan creates ideal conditions for farm-to-table dining. Top restaurants showcasing local ingredients include:
The Cook’s House
This intimate 26-seat restaurant offers 5- and 7-course tasting menus that change daily based on what’s fresh and available from local farmers. Chefs Jennifer Blakeslee and Eric Patterson create globally-inspired dishes that highlight northern Michigan’s seasonal bounty.
Farm Club
Located 7 miles from downtown, this combination farm, restaurant, brewery, and market epitomizes the farm-to-table concept. The rotating menu features ingredients grown on-site or sourced from neighboring farms, served in a modern rustic setting with views of the surrounding countryside.
Trattoria Stella
Housed in the former Northern Michigan Asylum (now Grand Traverse Commons), this Italian restaurant sources from over 40 local farms. Their house-made pastas, charcuterie, and creative seasonal dishes have earned national recognition and a loyal following.
Craft Beverages
Beyond its renowned wineries, Traverse City boasts a thriving craft beer, cider, and spirits scene:
Breweries
The Traverse City area is home to over 20 craft breweries, each with its own distinctive style:
- Right Brain Brewery: Known for creative beers using unusual ingredients like asparagus, cherry pie, and even pig parts (their Mangalitsa Pig Porter uses smoked pig heads and bones).
- The Workshop Brewing Company: An industrial-themed brewery focusing on sustainable practices and community involvement.
- North Peak Brewing Company: Housed in a historic brick building, offering traditional styles alongside innovative seasonal brews.
Distilleries & Cideries
The region’s fruit-growing heritage extends to spirits and ciders:
- Traverse City Whiskey Co.: Produces award-winning bourbon and rye, plus cherry-infused whiskey that pays homage to the region.
- Iron Fish Distillery: Michigan’s first farm-based distillery, located on a 120-acre farm where they grow grain for their spirits.
- Tandem Ciders: A rustic cidery on the Leelanau Peninsula producing traditional hard ciders from local apples.
- Left Foot Charley: An urban winery in the Grand Traverse Commons that also produces exceptional hard ciders.
Taste Traverse City’s Craft Beverages
Join a guided brewery tour and leave the driving to someone else.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Traverse City’s calendar is filled with events celebrating everything from cherries to films, ensuring there’s always something special happening no matter when you visit.
National Cherry Festival
Held annually in early July, this week-long celebration has been a Traverse City tradition since 1926. The festival attracts over 500,000 visitors for 150+ events including:
- Cherry farm tours and tastings
- Air shows over Grand Traverse Bay
- Parades through downtown
- Cherry pit-spitting contests
- Concerts featuring national recording artists
- Arts and crafts fairs
- Running races and sporting events
The festival showcases the region’s agricultural heritage while offering family-friendly entertainment throughout the city.
Traverse City Film Festival
Founded by filmmaker Michael Moore in 2005, this late July event has grown into one of the country’s most respected film festivals. For six days, the festival:
- Screens independent and foreign films at venues throughout town
- Hosts free outdoor movies on a giant screen at the Open Space park on Grand Traverse Bay
- Presents panels and discussions with filmmakers
- Offers film school classes for aspiring directors
The festival has helped restore the historic State Theatre and Bijou by the Bay, which now operate year-round as community cinema centers.
Other Notable Events
Throughout the year, Traverse City hosts numerous other festivals and events:
- Traverse City Wine & Art Festival (June): Celebrates the region’s wineries alongside local artists and musicians.
- Great Lakes Equestrian Festival (July-August): Six weeks of hunter/jumper horse competitions drawing international competitors.
- Traverse City Beer Week (November): Features beer-pairing dinners, rare tappings, and meet-the-brewer events.
- Winter Comedy Festival (February): Brings nationally-known comedians to multiple venues during the quieter winter season.
- Traverse City Restaurant Week (February): Offers special prix-fixe menus at participating restaurants.
Day Trips from Traverse City
While Traverse City offers plenty to keep visitors entertained, the surrounding region features charming small towns and natural wonders worth exploring on day trips.
Leland & Fishtown
Located 25 miles northwest of Traverse City on the Leelanau Peninsula, the village of Leland is home to historic Fishtown, one of Michigan’s last working fishing districts. This collection of weathered fishing shanties now houses unique shops and eateries while maintaining its authentic character.
Don’t miss the smoked fish at Carlson’s Fishery, a sandwich on a pretzel bun from Village Cheese Shanty, or the famous “Chubby Mary” (a Bloody Mary garnished with a smoked chub fish) at The Cove restaurant. Nearby Van’s Beach is perfect for hunting Petoskey stones, Michigan’s state stone.
Suttons Bay
Just 15 miles north of Traverse City, Suttons Bay combines a picturesque waterfront setting with a walkable downtown filled with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. The village marina welcomes boaters, while a public beach offers swimming and relaxation.
The surrounding area features several excellent wineries including Black Star Farms, L. Mawby (specializing in sparkling wines), and Shady Lane Cellars. The Leelanau Trail connects Suttons Bay to Traverse City, making it a popular cycling destination.
Mackinac Island
Though a bit farther afield (about 2.5 hours from Traverse City), Mackinac Island makes for an unforgettable day trip. This car-free island between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas preserves a Victorian atmosphere with horse-drawn carriages, grand hotels, and fudge shops.
Take a ferry from Mackinaw City, then rent bicycles to circle the 8.2-mile perimeter road with stunning views of the Straits of Mackinac and the impressive Mackinac Bridge. Visit historic Fort Mackinac, admire the iconic Grand Hotel, and sample the island’s famous fudge before returning to the mainland.
Glen Arbor & The Manitou Islands
The small town of Glen Arbor sits between Glen Lake and Lake Michigan, surrounded by Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It’s home to the original Cherry Republic store and restaurant, plus galleries and outdoor outfitters.
From nearby Leland, ferries run to North and South Manitou Islands during summer months. These remote islands offer pristine beaches, hiking trails, and camping opportunities. South Manitou features a lighthouse and shipwreck visible from shore, while North Manitou is almost entirely wilderness, perfect for backpacking.
Torch Lake
Often compared to the Caribbean for its stunning turquoise waters, Torch Lake is Michigan’s longest inland lake at 19 miles. About 30 minutes east of Traverse City, it’s a popular destination for boating and water sports.
The lake’s famous sandbar at the south end becomes a social gathering spot during summer weekends, with boats anchoring in the shallow water. Several public access points allow visitors to enjoy the crystal-clear waters, though waterfront dining options are limited compared to Grand Traverse Bay.
Practical Tips for Visiting Traverse City
Make the most of your Traverse City adventure with these helpful tips from experienced travelers and locals.
Planning Your Visit
- Book Accommodations Early: Hotels and vacation rentals fill quickly for summer weekends and during major festivals. Reserve 3-6 months in advance for peak times.
- Make Restaurant Reservations: Popular restaurants like The Cook’s House and Trattoria Stella often book weeks ahead, especially during summer.
- Consider Weekday Visits: Experience smaller crowds and better service by visiting Sunday through Thursday, particularly at wineries and popular attractions.
- Check Event Calendars: Before booking, check if your visit coincides with major festivals that might affect accommodation availability and prices.
Local Etiquette
- Wine Tasting: Most wineries charge $5-15 for tastings, often refundable with bottle purchase. Groups of 8+ should call ahead.
- Beach Respect: Leave no trace at beaches and dunes. Take all trash with you and respect private property signs.
- Water Safety: Great Lakes currents can be dangerous. Observe warning flags at beaches and never swim alone.
- Seasonal Businesses: Some restaurants and attractions operate seasonally or with limited hours in winter. Always check current hours before visiting.
Money-Saving Tips
- Traverse City Visitor Guide: Pick up a free guide at the airport or visitor center for coupons and discounts.
- Shoulder Season Visits: Consider May-June or September-October for lower rates and fewer crowds while still enjoying good weather.
- Farmers Markets: The Sara Hardy Farmers Market (Wednesday and Saturday mornings, May-October) offers fresh local produce at better prices than grocery stores.
- Free Activities: Beaches, hiking trails, and scenic drives cost nothing but provide some of the area’s best experiences.
Weather Considerations
- Lake Effect: Lake Michigan moderates temperatures, keeping summers cooler and winters milder than inland areas.
- Layered Clothing: Even summer evenings can be cool near the water. Bring layers for comfort throughout the day.
- Sunscreen: The reflection off water intensifies sun exposure. Use sunscreen even on cloudy days.
- Rain Gear: Brief afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. Pack a light raincoat or umbrella.
Is Traverse City family-friendly?
Absolutely! Traverse City offers numerous activities for families with children of all ages. Beaches like Clinch Park include splash pads and playground equipment. The Great Lakes Children’s Museum provides interactive exhibits for younger kids. Many wineries and breweries have created family-friendly spaces with games and non-alcoholic options. Outdoor activities like cherry picking, bike trails, and the Dune Climb appeal to children and adults alike.
How many days should I spend in Traverse City?
While you can experience downtown Traverse City in a day or two, most visitors find 3-5 days ideal to explore the region properly. This allows time to visit both peninsulas, enjoy Sleeping Bear Dunes, experience the food and wine scene, and perhaps take a day trip to nearby towns. If you’re interested in outdoor activities or want a more relaxed pace, consider staying a full week to fully appreciate all the area has to offer.
Experience the Magic of Traverse City
From the crystal-clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay to the towering dunes of Sleeping Bear, from world-class wineries to farm-to-table restaurants celebrating local bounty, Traverse City offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and small-town charm that keeps visitors returning year after year.
Whether you’re climbing a massive sand dune, sipping award-winning Riesling with views of rolling vineyards, savoring a slice of fresh cherry pie, or simply watching the sunset paint the sky over Lake Michigan, Traverse City creates moments and memories that linger long after your visit ends. With each season bringing its own distinct pleasures—from summer beach days to fall color tours, winter skiing to spring blossoms—there’s never a wrong time to discover why this northern Michigan gem has captured the hearts of travelers from around the world.
Your Traverse City adventure awaits—181 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 40+ wineries, countless outdoor adventures, and a vibrant culinary scene are ready to welcome you to Michigan’s true north.
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