Want to find out if Traverse City is worth visiting? In this guide I will give you a guide of things to do, places to stay and much more. You can decide for yourself if Traverse City is worth visiting.
In my opinion, Traverse City is worth visiting. This is a city I have frequented as I’ve grown up and continue to do so every year.
It is a great beach town with great restaurants, wineries, beaches and tons of things to do year round.
Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan, Traverse City is a gem that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, culinary delights, and cultural experiences. If you’re considering a trip to this charming city, here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect visit.
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20 Best Things to Do in Traverse City, MI
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Hike the trails, climb the dunes, and enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
- Traverse City State Park: A beautiful spot for picnicking, swimming, and camping.
- Mission Point Lighthouse: Explore this historic lighthouse at the tip of Old Mission Peninsula.
- Cherry Festival: Attend this iconic festival in July celebrating Traverse City’s famous cherries.
- Wine Tasting: Visit the numerous wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas.
- Brewery Tours: Traverse City is home to several excellent craft breweries.
- Downtown Shopping: Browse the unique shops and boutiques in downtown Traverse City.
- Dennos Museum Center: Discover a range of art exhibits, including works by Inuit artists.
- Boardman River: Enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding on this scenic river.
- Clinch Park: Relax on the beach or rent a kayak to explore West Grand Traverse Bay.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the extensive network of trails in and around Traverse City.
- TART Trails: A multi-use trail system perfect for biking, running, and walking.
- Farmers Markets: Visit local farmers markets for fresh produce and handmade goods.
- Interlochen Center for the Arts: Attend a concert or performance at this renowned arts institution.
- Elk Rapids: Take a day trip to this charming village just north of Traverse City.
- Historic Barns Park: Explore the Botanic Garden and the historic barns.
- Fishing Charters: Book a fishing charter on Lake Michigan.
- Golf Courses: Play a round at one of the area’s scenic golf courses.
- Traverse City Film Festival: Attend this annual event showcasing independent films.
- Grand Traverse Bay: Enjoy boating, sailing, or simply relaxing by the bay.
Where to Stay
Traverse City offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences. Is Traverse City worth visiting? Here are some accommodations to choose from to help you choose.
These are some great options for your stay in Traverse City. From the beach to downtown and luxurious spas, there is a lot to choose from.
- Grand Traverse Resort and Spa: A luxurious option with golf courses, a spa, and fine dining. I have stayed in this resort before with my family and loved it. It is especially beautiful at Christmas all lit up with lights and decorations.
- Hotel Indigo: A chic, modern hotel located downtown with stunning views of West Grand Traverse Bay.
- Bayshore Resort: A family-friendly option right on the beach, offering comfortable rooms and an indoor pool.
- Cherry Tree Inn & Suites: Perfect for extended stays, offering suites with kitchenettes and beautiful bay views.
- Airbnb and Vacation Rentals: For a more personalized experience, consider renting a charming cottage or a downtown loft.
Getting Around
Getting around Traverse City is easy, with several transportation options to choose from.
- Car Rentals: Essential for exploring the surrounding areas and wineries.
- Public Transit: Bay Area Transportation Authority aka BATA offers local bus services.
- Bike Rentals: Traverse City is bike-friendly, with numerous trails and bike rental shops.
- Walking: Downtown Traverse City is very walkable, making it easy to explore shops, restaurants, and attractions on foot.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Traverse City depends on your interests. All year round you can find things to do that fit your interests.
Summer is ideal for beach activities, outdoor festivals, and exploring the local wineries. Fall is perfect for enjoying fall foliage, wine tours, and the annual Traverse City Film Festival.
Winter is great for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. In the spring you can enjoy blooming orchards and fewer crowds.
Activities to Do in Traverse City by Season
Traverse City, Michigan, offers a wide range of activities that vary with the changing seasons. Whether you’re visiting in the warmth of summer or the chill of winter, there’s always something exciting to do.
Here are some activities to enjoy in Traverse City throughout the year that makes this city worth visiting all year long.
Spring
Cherry Blossoms Viewing
Spring in Traverse City is synonymous with cherry blossoms. Visit the cherry orchards and enjoy the stunning blooms, especially in late April and early May.
Wine Tasting Tours
Spring is a great time to explore the wineries on Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula. Enjoy wine tastings and tours as the vineyards start to come to life.
Hiking and Biking
The TART Trails and numerous other hiking and biking paths become accessible as the snow melts, offering picturesque routes through blooming landscapes.
Downtown Traverse City
Stroll through downtown, exploring local shops, cafes, and art galleries. Spring brings fewer crowds, making it a pleasant time to visit.
Fishing
Spring marks the beginning of fishing season. Try your hand at fishing in the many lakes and rivers in the area.
Summer
Beach Activities
Spend time at Traverse City State Park, Clinch Park, or other nearby beaches. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. I love going to the beautiful beaches in Traverse City to enjoy the scenery and relax.
National Cherry Festival
Held in early July, this festival celebrates Traverse City’s cherry heritage with parades, fireworks, and a variety of cherry-themed activities.
Going to the cherry festival is one of my favorite things to do in the summer. There is a carnival and also locals selling baked goods, jams and of course fresh cherries.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Hike the dunes, explore the trails, and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Michigan. Summer is the best time to fully experience this natural wonder.
Sailing and Boating
Rent a boat or take a sailing tour on Grand Traverse Bay. It’s a great way to cool off and enjoy the beautiful waters.
Outdoor Concerts and Festivals
Attend outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and festivals that are abundant during the summer months.
Fall
Fall Foliage
Traverse City is breathtaking in the fall with vibrant autumn colors. Take scenic drives or hikes to enjoy the changing leaves, especially along the M-22 route.
I love driving up north in the fall and seeing the fall foliage. Michigan is so beautiful in the fall.
Harvest Festivals
Participate in harvest festivals, pumpkin patches, and apple orchards. It’s a great time for cider tasting and picking fresh produce.
Wine and Beer Tours
Autumn is an excellent time for winery and brewery tours. Enjoy the harvest season with special tastings and events.
Traverse City Film Festival
Typically held in late summer or early fall, this festival showcases independent films and attracts filmmakers from around the world.
Golfing
Enjoy a round of golf at one of Traverse City’s many beautiful courses while the weather is still mild.
Winter
Skiing and Snowboarding
Head to nearby resorts like Crystal Mountain and Shanty Creek for downhill skiing and snowboarding.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
Explore the winter trails in the Sleeping Bear Dunes and other parks on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
Ice Fishing
Experience ice fishing on the frozen lakes. It’s a unique and traditional winter activity in the region.
Winter Festivals
Attend winter festivals such as the Traverse City Winter Comedy Arts Festival, featuring comedians and winter activities.
Cozy Dining
Warm up with a meal at one of Traverse City’s cozy restaurants. Many establishments offer hearty winter dishes and hot drinks to enjoy by the fire.
No matter the season, Traverse City has a diverse range of activities to offer, making it a great destination any time of the year.
Best Places to Eat in Traverse City, MI
Traverse City boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are five of the best places to eat in Traverse City:
The Cooks House
Located at 115 Wellington St
Focuses on locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Offers a seasonal menu with creative dishes. Intimate dining experience with a focus on the culinary arts.
Known for dishes like roasted duck breast, locally sourced fish, and seasonal vegetable plates.
Trattoria Stella
Located at 1200 W Eleventh St
Located in the historic Grand Traverse Commons. Features an extensive wine list and a menu of classic Italian dishes.
Uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Popular dishes include house-made pasta, braised meats, and artisan cheeses.
Poppycocks
Located at 128 E Front St
A long-standing favorite in downtown Traverse City. Known for its innovative menu and diverse flavor combinations.
Offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Signature dishes include Moroccan chicken, crab cakes, and a variety of creative salads and sandwiches.
Amical
Lovayed at 229 E Front St
Cozy bistro atmosphere with a rotating menu of European-inspired dishes. Renowned for its excellent service and charming ambiance.
Offers a variety of dishes, including French onion soup, duck confit, and seafood pasta. Popular for its weekend brunch and dessert selections.
The Franklin
Located at 160 E Front St
Modern gastropub with a rooftop deck offering great views of downtown. Features a diverse menu with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
Offers a range of dishes from burgers and sandwiches to steaks and seafood. Known for its craft cocktails and extensive beer list.
Whether you’re in the mood for farm-to-table cuisine, classic Italian dishes, innovative American fare, European bistro favorites, or a modern gastropub experience, Traverse City has a dining spot to satisfy your cravings.
FAQs
What is Traverse City known for?
Traverse City is famous for its cherry orchards, vineyards, craft breweries, and stunning natural landscapes, including the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Is Traverse City safe?
Yes, Traverse City is considered a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates and friendly locals.
Is Traverse City expensive?
Traverse City offers a range of options to suit different budgets. While some luxury accommodations and fine dining establishments can be pricey, there are plenty of affordable lodging and dining options.
How many days should I stay in Traverse City?
A 3 to 5-day stay is ideal to explore the main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and take day trips to nearby areas like the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Is Traverse City a good place for families?
Absolutely it is a good place for families. Traverse City offers numerous family-friendly activities, including beaches, parks, museums, and outdoor adventures.
Conclusion
Traverse City is definitely worth visiting, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, Traverse City has something for everyone.
Plan your trip today and discover why this charming city is a top destination in Michigan and definitely worth visiting. Don’t forget to buy some homemade fudge to take home.