Growing up in Michigan, Traverse City has always been a cherished vacation spot for me. From childhood summers spent at our family cabin on a quiet lake, to returning as an adult, I’ve continually rediscovered the magic of this Northern Michigan gem. It’s a place that truly captures the essence of a perfect Travel City Michigan experience, and I believe everyone should have the chance to explore its unique charm at least once.
Traverse City boasts an incredible combination of natural beauty and vibrant city life. Imagine pristine beaches meeting sparkling waterways, over a hundred wineries and breweries waiting to be explored, and scenic drives winding through towering pine forests and rolling orchards. Beyond the stunning landscapes, a dynamic food scene is blossoming, focused on fresh, farm-to-table ingredients and locally crafted wines. While perhaps still a hidden treasure on the national stage, Traverse City offers an unforgettable travel experience.
If you’re intrigued to learn more, keep reading for my in-depth travel guide to Traverse City. I’ll share insider tips and local insights to help you experience this remarkable region like a true Michigander.
Boats docked in Traverse City harbor reflecting the city lights at dusk
Essential Travel Tips for Your Traverse City Trip
Best Time to Plan Your Visit
Traverse City is a fantastic destination year-round, truly embodying the spirit of a travel city Michigan, with each season offering unique experiences depending on your interests and weather preferences.
For peak season excitement, July and August are the most popular months. The weather is ideal, and the city buzzes with activity. A highlight of the summer is the National Cherry Festival in early July, a fun-filled celebration of local culture and the cherry harvest, deeply rooted in the travel city Michigan experience.
Springtime in Traverse City is undeniably beautiful. While the weather can be a bit unpredictable, spring tends to arrive earlier here than in other parts of the region. The breathtaking spectacle of acres upon acres of cherry blossoms in bloom is an unforgettable sight, making it a uniquely beautiful time to experience this travel city Michigan.
Autumn is my personal favorite time to visit. Around mid-September, the leaves begin their transformation, reaching peak color about a month later. The combination of cozy cabin vibes and long, scenic drives to admire the fall foliage creates a truly magical atmosphere. For those seeking a quintessential fall travel city Michigan getaway, this is the perfect season.
Winter offers its own charm, especially for snow sports enthusiasts. The Traverse City area boasts hundreds of miles of trails perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Boyne Mountain, a small ski resort, is also just an hour’s drive north, expanding the winter adventure possibilities in this travel city Michigan.
Ideal Trip Duration in Traverse City
To fully immerse yourself and appreciate all that this travel city Michigan has to offer, I recommend planning for a long weekend in Traverse City. From hiking and scenic drives to winery tours and lakeside relaxation, there’s a wealth of activities to enjoy. Don’t forget to factor in time to explore the dozens of excellent restaurants that contribute to Traverse City’s growing culinary reputation.
Transportation to Traverse City
The most convenient way to reach this travel city Michigan is by flying directly into Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which is just a quick ten-minute drive from downtown Traverse City. The airport offers surprisingly good regional flight options, with regular direct flights to over a dozen major airports across the country.
Alternatively, you can fly into Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) and enjoy a scenic 3.5-hour drive north, or fly into Chicago O’Hare (ORD) for a 5-hour drive. While these drives might seem long, the journey becomes incredibly picturesque once you head ‘Up North,’ making the travel part of the overall travel city Michigan experience.
Getting Around Traverse City
To truly explore the diverse offerings of this travel city Michigan and its surrounding areas, having a car is essential. While downtown Traverse City is easily walkable, and cycling is a great option for some routes, many of the region’s highlights are best accessed with motor transportation.
If you’re not driving to Traverse City, renting a car at Cherry Capital Airport is highly recommended. Another option, especially if you prefer a curated experience, is to plan your itinerary with a locally operated tour company to navigate the region.
Must-Do Activities in Travel City Michigan: Traverse City
Sara Hardy Farmer’s Market: A Local Culinary Delight
The Sara Hardy Farmer’s Market is an absolute must-visit during any trip to this travel city Michigan. The market operates twice a week from spring through autumn, right in the heart of downtown Traverse City. It’s the perfect place to discover and purchase local culinary treasures to take home, or to stock up on fresh, seasonal produce if you’re planning on cooking during your stay in this travel city Michigan.
Close-up of artisanal bread and baked goods at Sara Hardy Farmers Market, Traverse City
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
Lake Michigan shoreline view from a hiking trail in Traverse City area
Cherry Republic: Embrace the Cherry Obsession
You might initially find the local obsession with cherries a bit quirky, but one visit to Cherry Republic will make you a believer. Located on Front Street, the Cherry Republic shop is a delightful experience for anyone visiting this travel city Michigan.
Sampling cherry products at Cherry Republic, a quintessential Traverse City activity
Wine Tasting on Mission Peninsula: A Surprising Wine Region
It might be surprising to discover vineyards in Michigan, but Traverse City’s wine scene has been gaining significant recognition in recent years. Situated on the 45th Parallel – the ideal latitude shared with renowned wine regions like Bordeaux and Piedmont – Old Mission Peninsula offers optimal grape-growing conditions, contributing to the unique appeal of this travel city Michigan.
You’ll find a variety of excellent wineries to choose from along the peninsula, each offering a distinct experience. Black Star Farms is the first winery you’ll encounter as you drive up the peninsula, known for its impressive selection of wines and fruit brandies.
Brys Estate is my go-to recommendation for first-time visitors. The panoramic views of the bay from their upper deck are simply breathtaking, and their signature strawberry Frosé is always a crowd-pleaser. (Read about my visit to Brys Estate here!)
Bowers Harbor Vineyards offers a more relaxed and intimate setting and holds the distinction of being one of the oldest wineries in the region, adding to the historical charm of this travel city Michigan experience.
For a modern twist, visit 2 Lads, the northernmost winery on Old Mission Peninsula. Its sleek, contemporary architecture stands in contrast to its neighbors. They are strongly committed to biodynamic practices, and their wines are consistently among my favorites in the Traverse City region.
People enjoying wine tasting with bay views at Brys Estate Vineyard, Traverse City
Scenic Drive on M-22: Coastal Beauty Unveiled
The M-22 highway is a must-experience for anyone exploring this travel city Michigan. This picturesque route hugs the Lake Michigan shoreline, offering stunning vistas of vineyards, cherry orchards, and the crystal-clear waters. As you drive, you’ll pass through charming coastal towns like Suttons Bay, Leland, and Glen Arbor, eventually leading you to the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a highlight of any travel city Michigan itinerary.
While the M-22 continues further south, I personally prefer to loop back to Traverse City along M-72. Depending on your stops along the way, this loop can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, showcasing the very best of the region’s scenic beauty.
Lake Michigan shoreline view from a hiking trail in Traverse City area
Explore Front Street: Downtown Traverse City’s Heart
Located in the vibrant heart of downtown Traverse City, Front Street is the city’s energetic hub, lined with historic buildings. A leisurely stroll along its sidewalks reveals unique boutiques, showcasing everything from handcrafted artisan goods to memorable tourist souvenirs, making it a key part of the travel city Michigan experience.
One of my favorite shops to browse is On The Rocks, where you can find beautiful handmade jewelry featuring Petoskey stones and Leland Blue stones, local treasures of this travel city Michigan. I also highly recommend visiting Horizon Books, M22, slip.vintage, Kilwins, and Harbor View Lavender.
Entrance to a store on Front Street, Traverse City, inviting shoppers in
Water Adventures: Get Out on the Lake
No visit to this travel city Michigan is truly complete without experiencing the water. At the very least, spending time at one of Traverse City’s beautiful beaches is a must. My personal favorite is West End Beach, a quieter spot located just outside of the main downtown area.
For a more active experience, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards at reasonable prices from The River Outfitters in town. They offer both short-term and long-term rentals. Lake conditions can change rapidly, so be sure to ask for their recommendations on safe and enjoyable spots before heading out on your water adventure in this travel city Michigan.
For a unique experience, consider chartering a boat for a fishing excursion. The waters around Traverse City are abundant with steelhead trout and salmon. While I haven’t personally tried it, I’ve heard great things about Mega Bite Fishing Charters.
If complete relaxation is your goal, Two Brothers Sailing Adventures offers sailing trips on the lake where they handle everything. Their rates are very reasonable, and if you bring your own wine and charcuterie, they will even plate it for you once you’re onboard, providing a truly luxurious way to enjoy the water in this travel city Michigan.
Traverse City Film Fest: A Celebration of Cinema
Once a nationally renowned event, the Traverse City Film Fest has been reimagined as a year-round celebration of film. Now, a new film is screened weekly at the historic State Theatre. It maintains the same high quality and thought-provoking selection of films that were hallmarks of the original festival, but now offered throughout the year, adding a cultural dimension to your travel city Michigan experience.
Day Trip Escapes from Travel City Michigan
Mackinac Island: Step Back in Time
Just an hour’s drive and a scenic ferry ride from Traverse City lies Mackinac Island, a charming island escape that feels like stepping into a bygone era. Once on the car-free island, rent a bicycle or take a horse-drawn carriage to explore its Victorian architecture, famous fudge shops, and stunning shoreline. A day trip to Mackinac Island is a perfect addition to your travel city Michigan itinerary.
Harbor Springs: Lakeside Charm and Boutiques
The scenic drive along Lake Michigan to Harbor Springs takes about two hours, winding through picturesque lakeside towns. Harbor Springs itself boasts a historic downtown filled with unique boutique shops, independent art galleries, and cozy cafes. Don’t miss a walk along the iconic Harbor Springs Pier for postcard-perfect views of sailboats in the harbor, creating a memorable day trip from travel city Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Natural Majesty
A short 40-minute drive west of Traverse City brings you to one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Northern Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Take a drive through the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for panoramic vistas overlooking Lake Michigan. If the weather is favorable, I highly recommend a short hike through the dunes to Pyramid Point for incredible views. Afterward, head to the town of Glen Arbor for a delicious meal at The Mill, a local favorite since its recent opening, making it a rewarding day trip from travel city Michigan.
Culinary Hotspots: Where to Eat in Traverse City
Farm Club | A design-forward restaurant located on a working farm just outside of town. Read about my visit to Farm Club here!
Crocodile Palace | Arguably the best Szechuan cuisine east of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Bubbie’s Bagels | Freshly baked bagels made from scratch daily. Create your own breakfast sandwich and grab a locally roasted coffee to enjoy by the water, just a short walk away.
The Flying Noodle | A lively downtown spot serving modern Italian dishes with a fantastic happy hour.
Forrest | A cozy eatery and wine shop that feels more like a dinner party than a traditional restaurant.
Raduno | A neighborhood delicatessen featuring locally sourced ingredients and a seasonally inspired menu.
Frenchie’s Famous | A quirky and beloved local restaurant, my family’s top choice for a hearty breakfast in town.
Modern Bird | A seasonal American restaurant helmed by two chefs with Michelin-star backgrounds.
Pepenero | Elevated Sicilian cuisine rooted in family recipes, showcasing seasonal produce and handmade pasta. Perfect for a special occasion or date night in travel city Michigan.
Moomers | Locally produced ice cream that has become a town-wide obsession. Find them in shops throughout the region or visit their farm just outside of the city.
Boathouse Restaurant | A casually elegant restaurant on Old Mission Peninsula with beautiful views overlooking Bowers Harbor, especially stunning at sunset, enhancing the romantic ambiance of travel city Michigan.
Selection of gourmet ice cream flavors at Moomers Ice Cream in Traverse City
Where to Stay in Travel City Michigan: Accommodation Guide
Delamar Traverse City
As the first major luxury hotel in Traverse City, The Delamar has truly set a new standard. Located directly on the lake, many rooms offer spectacular water views. Its proximity to downtown means you can easily walk to many attractions. For car-free trips to this travel city Michigan, The Delamar is my top recommendation.
Island View Cottages
This charming collection of humble cottages located right on the lake exudes a nostalgic, old-fashioned romance. Family-run since the 1950s, the warm hospitality adds to the unique charm of staying at Island View Cottages in travel city Michigan.
Inn at Black Star Farms
Nestled within 160 acres of vineyards, orchards, and wooded trails overlooking Suttons Bay, this equestrian-inspired inn offers a truly luxurious experience. While the room decor might be slightly dated, the overall experience is exceptional. Don’t miss a fireside nightcap of Black Star Farms’ own fruit brandy at the Pegasus Bar, enhancing your stay in travel city Michigan.
Farmstay on AirBnB
I’ve had this adorable little farmstay bookmarked for ages, located just fifteen minutes from town. It’s a gentleman farm, not a working farm, but it features friendly goats you can feed, orchards for fruit picking, and beautiful seasonal flower gardens. The owners even offer the option of arranging a romantic candlelit dinner in the charming old barn, providing a unique and memorable accommodation option in travel city Michigan.
Local Specialties to Savor and Seek Out
- Cherries: A quintessential Traverse City treat, available in countless forms.
- Ice Wine: A regional specialty, particularly delicious from local wineries.
- Petoskey Stones: Unique fossilized coral, perfect for souvenirs and jewelry.
- Lavender Bath Products: Locally made lavender products for relaxation and self-care.
- Whitefish Paté: A local delicacy, best enjoyed with a warm baguette.
