Charming Traverse City Michigan
I think we can all agree that Traverse City is downright charming.
With delicious local restaurants, wineries galore, and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities–it’s no wonder we all flock here to relax and recharge.
Traverse City MI FAQs
Where is Traverse City, Michigan located?
What is Traverse City, Michigan known for?
Beaches: If you’re looking to spend time outside, Traverse City is a great place to be. The clearest waters I’ve ever swum in have been along the coast near Traverse City–there’s nothing quite like it!
Wineries:
Outdoor Activities: There are plenty of fun trail options to bike, walk, or run if you’re looking to move a little more. Want to move and be near the water? Traverse City is full of paddle board and kayak opportunities too!
Traverse City in the Summer, Fall, Winter & Spring
There is always something fun going on in Traverse City regardless of the season.
Fall Fun
Visitors love cashing in on Northern Michigan’s Autumn beauty with a fall trip to Traverse City.
The trees are glorious and the weather is perfect for mountain biking the VASA trail or walking downtown.
Want to combine biking and food? Take a bike trail wine tour!
Winter in Traverse City
Looking for some winter adventure? Look no further!
Whether you want to try snowmobiling through the countryside or skiing down a mountain, there’s plenty of snowy fun to be had in Traverse City. In fact, the largest tubing hill in Michigan can be found in Traverse City too.
Spring in Traverse City
Spring is a great time to visit Traverse City before the hustle and bustle of summer tourists begin.
With the snow gone, you can easily explore the trails over at The Commons. Of course, all those cherry trees are blossoming and the sights (and smells) are exquisite. You can literally pick the perfect souvenir and have a one-of-a-kind experience at the Iris Farm.
Summer in Traverse City
Perhaps the crown jewel of Traverse City is summertime. Lake Michigan, beach, lazy summer days and loads of natural beauty are just the beginnings of summer in TC.
There are loads of things that kids dig about this town in summer, including kayaking and fishing, ziplines, foot golf, and bike trails. (Pro tip: stop at Brick Wheels on 8th street for kid bike and bike trailer rentals.)
And if you’re going to go to Traverse City in summer, you’ve got to check out the event that everyone lives for each year: the annual National Cherry Festival every July.
Where to Eat in Traverse City
One of my favorite things to do in Traverse City: EAT!
Grab a Meal
This city is a great place to indulge in some great eats. Here are a few of our favorite places to stop for a bite–
- The Blue Tractor | So many delicious options–you can’t go wrong.
- Bubba’s | Stop here for the best fries ever!
- Slabtown Burgers | The name says it all, they have some great (and interesting) burgers.
- Filling Station | A great place to share a pizza.
- North Peak Brewing Company | Home to my favorite Honey Mustard Pretzel Crusted Chicken Sandwich.
- Mama Lu’s | Because tacos are always a hit–and these are downright delectable.
Coffee
Want to recharge with a cup of coffee?
There are plenty of options, but if you’re feeling hip–a stop at BLK / MRKT for a classic coffee is where you want to go. Good Harbor Coffee is one of Traverse City’s oldest coffee shops and has yummy baked goods with some allergy-friendly options too.
Check out the Full Stock of Year Round Favorites
Rain, shine, or snow–there are some signature activities you can always do when you visit Traverse City.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
A trip to Traverse City isn’t complete without stopping by Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It’s truly breathtaking.
There are scenic drives with picturesque overlooks and plenty of trails that get you closer to Lake Michigan. Just remember: if you run down the dune…you have to get back up!
State Theatre
Sure to be a hit for your whole family is catching a matinee at the State Theatre.
You can check to see which film is showing at 10:00 AM every Saturday (and on Tuesdays and Thursdays in the summer months).
Shop Downtown
While you’re downtown you may as well do a little shopping. Downtown Traverse City is lined with a wide-array of local shops.
One of my favorite places to pick up baby gifts for new mamas is Sweet Pea. If you’re looking to shop until you drop, you can head to The Village at Grand Traverse Commons for even more boutique shopping.
Great Lakes Children’s Museum
With tons of hands-on exhibits appropriate for children ages 0-8 years-old, a stop at the Great Lakes Children’s Museum is a favorite among Traverse City’s younger visitors.
A Weekend Getaway to Remember
At just over a 2 hour drive from Grand Rapids, a trip to Traverse City makes the perfect weekend getaway. Whether you’re traveling with your family, sneaking away with your partner, or relaxing with your best girlfriends–a weekend in Traverse City is sure to satisfy.
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