Visit Traverse City: 10 Must-See Attractions for an Unforgettable Michigan Adventure
Updated: Apr 29
Looking to escape to a city that balances natural beauty with lively culture? Traverse City, Michigan, offers just that, with its inviting Lake Michigan shores and authentic local flavors. Here’s your guide to the essential experiences: sun-kissed beaches, sprawling vineyards, and a downtown rich in character. Dive into our curated list of top must-see unforgettable Michigan adventures and attractions and plan a visit that promises to be both relaxing and vibrant - it’s time to visit Traverse City.
Key Takeaways for Traverse City's Attractions & Adventures
Traverse City is an idyllic waterfront town offering a perfect mix of beach fun, nature, culture, and gastronomy, accessible via various transportation methods including regional flights to Cherry Capital Airport.
Outdoor enthusiasts rejoice in Traverse City’s myriad activities like water sports on Grand Traverse Bay, an arm of Lake Michigan, hiking and biking along numerous trails, or exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for breathtaking natural beauty.
Foodies can immerse in Traverse City’s vibrant culinary scene with farm-to-table dining, a plethora of wineries on the Traverse Wine Coast, and the city’s famous cherry-based delights, underscoring its title as the Cherry Capital.
Discovering Traverse City: A Michigan Gem
Positioned along the edge of Lake Michigan's Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City exemplifies an ideal beachside community and is a prime spot for either a leisurely summer escape or an autumnal hideaway. It harmonizes beautifully with its environment—boasting vast forests and pristine beaches—and captures the essence of both natural splendor and vibrant city life. The town’s offerings extend well beyond cherries, vino, and sandy retreats to include a plethora of nature-focused on Traverse City's Attractions & Adventures.
Getting to Traverse City can be done with ease from any direction. If you’re coming from Chicago’s vicinity, take US-131 N. If you’re traveling up the western shoreline of Michigan, use US-31 N. Or when venturing out from Detroit, follow I-75 N. For those flying in, Cherry Capital Airport provides convenient access not only to downtown, but also places visitors close proximity to regional attractions. A little insider advice: if you feel comfortable driving stay in the outer edges of Traverse City in the interior lake or forest areas. If walking is more to your liking, book one of the highly rated hotels within walking distance of downtown Traverse City.
Venture just past the confines of this bustling town and immerse yourself into the culture of the area married seamlessly with idyllic Michigan landscapes. Poised at where two peninsulas converge, Traverse City presents awe-inspiring scenery complemented by unique dining experiences alongside vineyards—a compelling juxtaposition creating an allure that positions it as an essential destination on your travel itinerary.
Lake Michigan's Allure
Traverse City is nestled by Lake Michigan, a magnet for adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in an array of outdoor pursuits. Whether angling in freshwaters or relishing the thrill of various water sports and wandering alongside docks lined with opulent vessels, this city has limitless entertainment options. The waters of West Grand Traverse Bay beckon adventure seekers eager to engage in stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Alternatively, you could relax shoreside as the dynamic display continues offshore.
Step aboard vintage tall mast ships from the 19th century for an unparalleled voyage across Grand Traverse Bay that will provide a distinctive vantage point along the shoreline perfect for curating your Instagram feed. Embrace tranquil mornings or evenings on Lake Michigan’s coast where romantic locations offer uninterrupted views of spectacular sunsets and dawns illuminating nature’s palette. As you traverse Traverse City’s scenic locales, local legends might unfold before you—enriching your journey with layers of cultural mystique woven into every experience.
Downtown Traverse City Vibes
The heart of Traverse City, teeming with energy, captures the essence of the city’s dynamic culture, which has developed through its rich and varied past. The architectural landscape of the city reflects this history, showcasing neighborhood designs that are a nod to the different communities who have made their mark here. Within these historic quarters are top-tier restaurants, cultural hotspots, and an assortment of craft breweries—all contributing to the lively spirit you’ll encounter when roaming downtown Traverse City.
As night falls over downtown Traverse City, its excitement does not wane. It thrives. Quaint boutiques and bustling evening venues provide endless amusement alongside eerie accounts from historical ghost tours designed for thrill-seekers. Regardless if your interests are in heritage exploration or gastronomic adventures—or perhaps just immersing yourself in what local life has to offer—downtown Traverse City presents an array of options tailored for any visitor’s curiosity after sunset.
Grand Traverse County Attractions & Adventure
In the heart of Grand Traverse County, you’ll find conditions ripe for vine cultivation thanks to surrounding waters, beneficial microclimates, and an extended season for growing grapes. The area boasts a similar microclimate that you find in the famous vineyard locations in France as both areas are locations around the 45th Parallel. This region is a prime spot for those passionate about wine. Numerous vineyards provide guided tours and tasting experiences that let visitors delve into the intricate craft of winemaking.
Beyond its famous vineyards. There lies more to discover in this locale. Picture spending a night at The Cherry Bowl Drive-in—one of the last remaining classic drive-in theaters—where one can relive days gone by while watching movies under a canopy of stars. Unrivaled panoramas await on both Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula—with each promising distinct adventures and brilliant sunsets.
Grand Traverse County promises not just wine tasting escapades, but also nostalgic film screenings at our beloved State and Bijou Theaters and picturesque journeys across its two peninsulas—each experience contributing to lasting impressions sure to etch themselves in your memory.
Traverse City's Outdoor Paradise
Traverse City is a haven for those passionate about the great outdoors, offering an array of activities suited to every season including fishing, golfing, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, inner tubing, and biking in warmer months, plus skiing and snowshoeing when winter rolls around. As fall approaches—specifically from late September through mid-October—the city bursts into spectacular displays of reds and oranges. It’s even recognized among the top 15 North American destinations for autumnal leaf-peeping excursions according to Fodor's Travel Guide.
You can fully immerse yourself in this seasonal beauty by visiting spots like Old Mission Peninsula or venturing southward to the wooded elevations near Traverse City like the High Rollaways near Kingsley, Michigan . Other scenic areas include Benzie County and the Leelanau Peninsula where you will find Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore—a must-see attraction. For enthusiasts keen on delving deeper into nature’s offerings, there are locations such as Vasa Pathway or Boardman River Nature Center which provide mountain biking routes, running paths, cross-country ski trails along with informative educational programs.
Whether your pursuit is thrill-seeking adventure rides through natural terrains or peaceful hikes with family learning about flora and fauna together. Whether you’re looking to traverse rugged landscapes for new discoveries—or simply wish to absorb serene vistas while staying active—Traverse City embodies an outdoor wonderland that’ll enchant any visitor. And don’t forget: summer days here come equipped with extended daylight hours, ensuring ample time to enjoy each experience offered by this vibrant city!
Sleeping Bear Dunes Adventure
For unique outdoor adventures, a visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is indispensable. Home to the largest freshwater dunes in the world, this national treasure offers a variety of activities for adventurers of all ages. For a taste of the area’s beauty, you can drive the scenic Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a 7.4 mile loop, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
If you’re up for a more active adventure, the Sleeping Bear Dunes offers a variety of hiking and biking trails to explore. Some of the popular trails include:
Empire Bluff Trail (This author's favorite hike)
Pyramid Point Trail
Dunes Trail
Alligator Hills Trail
Windy Moraine Trail
Sleeping Bear Dunes Heritage Trail
These trails showcase the beauty of the park’s diverse landscapes and provide a thrilling experience for outdoor enthusiasts. So buckle up for an adventure that combines the thrill of exploration with the serene beauty of nature. Plus, many of the trails offer incredible views of Lake Michigan and the Dunes.
Traverse City State Park Exploration
Embark on a relaxing journey to Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park for some outdoor leisure right in the heart of the city. Only 2 miles from Downtown Traverse City, this urban oasis boasts not only a contemporary campsite, but also an inviting day-use section complete a sandy shore on East Grand Traverse Bay, perfect for family gatherings. With its expansive 343-site campground featuring electrical hook-ups and updated bathroom facilities, your stay is guaranteed to be both cozy and convenient. The 10.5 mile TART Trail traverses right by this State Park.
The park’s lengthy stretch of beach, spanning one-quarter mile, proves popular among visitors seeking sun and surf. The beach area comes equipped with amenities like picnic spots and grills. In the winter, a sauna business is located there for visitors to partake of and in the summer many rental companies can deliver water recreation equipment right to the beach. For more varied accommodation choices, there are miniature cabins or an all-amenities-included lodge available too. Plus, wheelchair-accessible features ensure everyone has easy access to the beachfront fun. No matter if you’re setting out on an overnight camping adventure or simply dropping by for some daytime revelry by the lake side – Traverse City State Park serves up delightful moments amidst nature’s charm for all who traverse its grounds.
Trails for Biking and Hiking
Traverse City is a haven for those who love to bike and hike, offering an abundance of trails suitable for different abilities and preferences and was ranked the number one bike network in Michigan. The 10.5-mile paved TART Trail traverses through Traverse City MI up to Acme Township, providing a picturesque journey for both cyclists and hikers. Just a short walk from Downtown Traverse City to the west along West Grand Traverse Bay, adventurers can find the scenic Leelanau Trail that stretches 17 miles all the way to Suttons Bay. Many, including this author, have hiked this trail in a single day. Local tour companies will rent bikes so guests to the area can enjoy this picturesque paved trail.
Venturing deeper into nature’s embrace, explorers will discover Vasa Pathway’s various loops which extend from 3 kilometers and up to 25 kilometers. These are meticulously groomed for cross-country skiing during winter months, but also cater to other non-motorized outdoor activities throughout other seasons.
For an idyllic route among local neighborhoods and parks along Boardman Lake’s shores, the newly completely, Boardman Lake Loop Trail offers serene views on its gentle paths around Boardman Lake. Many hikers and bikers will park at Logans Landing or the Library to enjoy this trail. Pro-tip from a local: Do not feed the assortment of fowl wildlife you will get to see on this route as many of the offerings are not healthy for the wildlife. But do bring your camera to capture these photogenic water fowl!
Traverse City presents several distinct hiking routes such as:
Miller Creek Nature Reserve: A quiet pathway amidst natural beauty just behind a commerce center but you would never know. Great for those that may want to experience nature but are weary of being in more remote areas.
Pelizzari Natural Area Loop: Encompassing a variety of terrains with views of East Grand Traverse Bay. A favorite for this author.
Silver Lake Recreation Area: Winding past a local dog fenced in dog park that will have its guests traversing woods and marsh lands.
There truly is a path tailored for every type of trekker in this city.
So whether you’re readying your hiking gear, setting off on two wheels or preparing your skis—there awaits an immersive world within reach at Traverse City where outdoor pursuits abound!
Wine and Dine in Traverse City
Exploring Traverse City provides an opportunity to indulge in its acclaimed food scene, which gained national attention when it was recognized as one of the top five foodie towns in America by Bon Appétit magazine in 2010. This city is famous for its farm-to-table approach and a variety of gourmet experiences that include cherry-based specialties and comprehensive wine tours.
Those who enjoy distilled beverages will find pleasure with any of our Grand Traverse-based Distilleries. Traverse City Whiskey Company took home multiple Double Gold Medals from the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Grand Traverse Distillery received 8 medals at the American Distilling Institute's 11th Annual Spirits Competition. Beer enthusiasts can embark on tasting adventures through Traverse City’s extensive selection of breweries with the aid of shuttle services designed to provide a safe way to savor these local brews.
Traverse City promises an unforgettable culinary journey not only for epicureans or those passionate about fine wines, but also for anyone seeking a delightful dining experience. The magic ingredient behind this extraordinary fare is undoubtedly Traverse City’s geographic location and climate—elements that ensure every dish features fresh produce bursting with authentic regional flavors.
Traverse Wine Coast Tour
Nestled in Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City beckons to those with a penchant for wine. Embarking on an expedition through the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail provides aficionados with three distinctive paths: the Sleeping Bear Loop, Northern Loop, and Grand Traverse Bay Loop. Each path curates its own flavor of exploration amongst wineries that range from upscale tasting rooms boasting breathtaking views to smaller venues that offer a cozy atmosphere.
The Sleeping Bear Loop takes you from the western shores of Lake Leelanau across to Glen Arbor and then north to the Village of Lake Leelanau. The Northern Loop will traverse Leland to Suttons Bay to Omena.
The Grand Traverse Bay Loop will have guests visiting Suttons Bay south to the shores of West Grand Traverse Bay.
Notable stops include Bel Lago Vineyard & Winery, Leelanau Cellars, Black Star Farms, Ciccone Vineyard & Winery as well as 45 North Vineyard & Winery.
Events such as May’s “Traverse City Uncorked” and "Soups and Sips" Tours afford enthusiasts the pleasure of savoring wines amidst vine-covered landscapes springing into bloom.
The Old Mission Peninsula also boasts some stunningly beautiful vineyards and tasty wineries. At Mari Vineyards or indulging in diverse experiences provided such as touring the underground ageing caves and tastings with views of the Bay. Revel in the tranquility at Chateau Grand Traverse Winery with a pairing of yoga or cooking classes along with your favorite wine.
For visitors concerned about transportation between these lush locales, opt for scheduling a guided wine tour where navigating roads won’t interfere with enjoying each stop’s libations fully.
Cherry Capital Delights
Known as the Cherry Capital of the world, Traverse City takes great pride in its title. Throughout cherry season, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the local orchards where they have the opportunity to harvest their own cherries right from the trees, enjoying fresh-picked delights during their journey.
To its vibrant orchards, Traverse City’s gastronomy scene is rife with offerings that include a variety of cherry-inspired creations. Guests can indulge in everything from rich cherry pies and luscious jams to beverages such as beer infused with cherries and regional wines graced by hints of this beloved fruit. As you visit, make sure there’s space on your palate for these irresistible treats which are central features at many dining establishments throughout the city.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Traverse City is renowned for offering a range of dining establishments that prioritize fresh, locally-sourced food, making the most of farm-to-table concepts. This dedication to incorporating regional produce sourced from Traverse City and its surroundings emphasizes freshness and quality in every meal. From The Cooks' House to Taproot Cider House, artisan establishments are found throughout the region.
The local farms around Traverse City play an essential role by providing these restaurants with top-tier ingredients that capture Michigan’s rich agricultural offerings. This direct connection between nearby farms and dining tables ensures visitors experience some of Michigan’s finest tastes.
Prepare yourself to indulge in the authentic essence of Michigan cuisine when visiting restaurants across this city. Pro Local Tip: Many restaurants are welcoming regardless of formal or less formal attire. This encompasses the laid back atmosphere created by the locals. However, during peak season plan early and make reservations if at all possible to avoid wait lines.
Cultural Experiences in Traverse City
Traverse City is not only a haven for natural beauty and gastronomic delights, but also serves as a hub for cultural experiences. Whether it’s exploring the depths of Michigan’s nautical heritage with lighthouse tours or delving into artistic expressions at the Dennos Museum Center, there are abundant opportunities to satisfy your thirst for culture.
For those visiting Traverse City looking for educational and imaginative spots to visit, the area boasts two museums: The Dennos Museum and The Music House Museum. As well as the Great Lake Children's Museum.
The Dennos Museum offers a selection of temporary exhibitions and a well-established permanent showcase across its ten distinct galleries can be found at Dennos Museum which sits on the Northwest Michigan Community College Campus. The renowned collection within the Barbara and Dudley Smith Wing dedicated specifically to Inuit Art
As guests traverse the Downtown Traverse City area and gaze upon banner art hung throughout the area, it is because of NMC Art Department Chair Paul Welch and Dennos Museum that allowed the Traverse City Art Banner Project to become real and enjoyed by guests and locals alike.
A Music House Museum boasts an impressive variety of self-playing instruments like finely restored Theofiel Mortier Dance Organ called the "Amaryllis" and whimsical music boxes
The Great Lakes Children's Museum provides hands-on, interactive educational experiences for children and adults.
Traverse City also becomes home to multiple notable festivals each year that attract large crowds by celebrating regional customs and products through vibrant events. These include:
The esteemed National Cherry Festival featuring parades accompanied by live music performances tailored around celebrating regionally harvested cherries along with their culinary uses.
The celebrated Traverse City Beer Week highlighting regional craft beers via various November festivities
Spooky history tours providing both historical insights coupled with thrilling ghost stories
These assorted celebrations offer something unique for every visitor looking forward to experiencing all aspects of city life.
Overall these richly layered cultural offerings guarantee that any trip you take traversing through Traverse City will be filled with intellectual stimulation alongside soulful nourishment.
Grand Traverse Commons Transformation
Traverse City has witnessed a cultural renaissance through the development of The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, where the once historic Northern Michigan Asylum and State Hospital structures have been repurposed into a thriving sector within the city. This reinvention adheres to Dr. Munson’s belief that “Beauty is Therapy,” underscoring the importance of treating patients with compassion and providing an aesthetically pleasing environment.
Presently, The Village houses an array of business spaces including restaurants and small boutiques.
Breweries, Bakeries, and other businesses create a thriving center of commerce. But there’s more than just shopping and dining to be enjoyed here. Recreational opportunities abound on trails throughout Grand Traverse Commons, which offer both paved and natural paths winding amidst scenic parklands and alongside timeless architectural landmarks.
The melding of historical significance, communal spirit, and picturesque surroundings render The Village an essential destination for those exploring Traverse City.
Lighthouse Tours
Michigan is renowned for its extensive collection of lighthouses, more than any other state in the US, which are integral to its nautical heritage. Traverse City contributes to this rich tradition with historic lighthouses and mission churches as well as opulent old homes that narrate the city’s architectural and historical stories.
From their base in Traverse City, visitors have the opportunity to traverse eight storied beacons including Mission Point Lighthouse, Grand Traverse Lighthouse, Robert H Manning Memorial Lighthouse, Point Betsie Lighthouse, South Manitou Light Station, and North Manitou Light Station.
One overlooked lighthouse sits in the heart of downtown Traverse City. It sits on top of the historic Park Place Hotel and the south end of Park Street and serves as a beacon on foggy days and nights still to this day.
Each beacon holds a distinctive allure with the shores of Lake Michigan, Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas offering an enchanting opportunity to partake of a leisurely stroll around its premises or embark on more vigorous hiking expeditions along dedicated trails. Some off tours for history enthusiasts—and for those who simply revel in breathtaking vistas—with educational yet delightful experiences amidst these emblematic towers of light.
Festivals and Events
Traverse City, Michigan, is a bustling hub of culture and tradition that becomes especially vibrant with its array of annual festivals. These gatherings honor the city’s unique heritage and attractions by drawing in crowds eager to participate in the festivities. Highlights include:
The National Cherry Festival: A standout celebration synonymous with Traverse City’s summer season, featuring a variety of events from parades to concerts that pay homage to the area’s renowned cherry production.
Traverse City Beer Week: Held each November for beer aficionados, this week-long event spotlights local craft beers through an assortment of celebratory activities.
North American VASA Festival of Races unfolds every February with a series of cross country skiing races.
Ring in the New Year with our unique and fitting, CherryT Ball Drop in the heart of Downtown Traverse City. Other holiday events include Santa arriving in November for the spectacular and bright Holiday Light Parade as well as the lighting of the Downtown Holiday Christmas Tree.
When these community-centric celebrations unfold throughout the year, they encapsulate more than just admiration for regional specialties – they foster a sense of unity within Traverse City. Both residents and visitors are brought together under one festive banner where new friendships can be made while basking in fun-filled entertainment tailored to all ages. Including those who relish good food, specialty brews or family-oriented fun. Whether you’re traversing across town or exploring as part of your journey visiting scenic Northern Michigan parks during any season, there is always an inviting festival awaiting your arrival.
Traverse City Accommodations
Traverse City is the perfect place for any visitor, offering a wide array of lodging opportunities that suit all preferences. Noteworthy hotels and B& Bs such as:
Great Wolf Lodge-Great for Families!
Hotel Indigo-Just West of Downtown Traverse City
Bayshore Resort-On the shores of Grand Traverse Bay
Park Place Hotel- Heart of Downtown Traverse City
Wellington Inn-Just East of Downtown Traverse City
Old Mission Inn-Stay in one of TC's beautiful Lighthouses
Country Hermitage Bed and Breakfast- Near Casino with distant views of the bay, nestled in a country setting
They are frequently chosen for their prime locations and excellent facilities, with options available to accommodate both family needs and those seeking more economical stays.
Vacationers desiring accommodations that provide the comforts of home can select from various rentals like cottages, cabins or houses via platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO.
Couples in search of a romantic getaway will find Cherry Tree Inn & Suites, Tamarack Lodge or Pointes North Beachfront Resort Hotel ideal. Each offers special features designed to enhance an amorous vacation. For an experience steeped in the city’s history and allure, The Village provides on-site rentals sure to enrich your stay in Traverse City.
Visitors seeking a stay along the shores of West or East Grand Traverse Bay can enjoy the beaches and hospitality all in one. With breathtaking views of the water from your rooms. A special place to stay is not hard to find in Traverse City with many hotels lining its shores.
Many hotels are just a short drive or walk to to downtown Traverse City, beautiful trails, fun-filled beaches, and stunning vineyards.
This diversity ensures visitors can easily secure the ideal spot to unwind after a day filled with traversing everything that this charming city has to offer.
Planning Your Traverse City Adventure
Embarking on an adventure to Traverse City starts with planning your visit. The prime time for a journey to this city is from May through October, particularly in July and August when the beaches are inviting and water activities are at their peak.
For those wanting to experience the beautiful cherry blossoms with a scenic drive, May is ideal, while summer provides more daylight for exploring the variety of outdoor recreation opportunities on one of many beautiful beaches along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay. In the fall, Peepers, guests to the area that are fall colors enthusiasts, gravitate to this area due to its expansive forests and vista views with the changing of the colors every autumn.
Navigating Traverse City can be done with ease due to its array of transportation methods. Options include:
Arrival via Cherry Capital Airport
Connection through Indian Trails bus service linked with broader transport systems
Rental cars, rental at airport location, which are perfect for visiting places like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore on the shores of Lake Michigan.
BATA’s complimentary Bayline bus route that offers live tracking alongside a Link on Demand feature
Uber and Lyft drivers are available in the area and operate year round. Local Taxi services are also available in the area such as Up North Taxi and Odawa Country Taxi Cab.
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary escapade as you set off towards Traverse City – it promises experiences that last a lifetime!
Summary
Traverse City is poised on the shores of Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes, and it invites you to explore its beautiful cityscape and breathtaking autumn colors. This city is a haven for those who desire an eclectic mix of natural splendor, gastronomic delights, cultural richness, and a wide range of lodging options. A trip to Traverse City guarantees memorable moments whether your interests lie in thrilling outdoor pursuits, the tranquility Mother Nature offers, or immersing yourself in culinary discoveries and cultural treasures—or if you’re just looking to unwind by the lake. Come experience the charm that Traverse City has in store!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Traverse City most known for?
The city of Traverse City holds the distinction as the world’s Cherry Capital due to its prolific cherry production in the region around Grand Traverse Bay. But this area is not just a destination for cherry lovers. If you love fun then this is the place to visit.
It is famed for organizing the National Cherry Festival, an event that annually draws approximately half a million visitors.
Vineyards create some of the tastiest wines in the United States. The wineries in the Traverse City area stunningly beautiful and just a short drive from Downtown Traverse City. Many wineries in the area have won national awards placing them as the elite producers of wine in the nation. Plus, the area now boasts a robust craft brew industry and Traverse City in 2024 was voted the No. 3 Best Small Town Beer Scene by USA Today.
The area also boasts the beautiful Clinch Park Beach just a short walk from Downtown Traverse City. Another Beach in the area, West Grand Traverse Bay offers beach volleyball, trees to hang a hammock, and shallow waters to moor boats for the day. Tall ships and their sales carrying their guests with the backdrop of both peninsulas can be viewed daily, making the views fun and the memories lasting of this beautiful place called Traverse City.
Is Traverse City walkable?
Indeed, Traverse City offers a pedestrian paradise with its walkable downtown area with shopping lining the picturesque Front Street and extensive miles of sidewalks, trails, and country roads suitable for strolling enthusiasts!
Why is Traverse City so popular?
Traverse City is a magnet for great successes and a destination for any wanderer on a road trip to the area. Renowned as the “Cherry Capital of the World” for its impressive contribution of over 75% to America’s tart cherry production by the State of Michigan.
The city captivates with its natural allure, featuring pristine freshwater beaches alongside lush vineyards and wineries. Vineyards here have won big at National Competitions boasting some of the best wines produced in the United States. It boasts close access to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore ( Voted the Most Beautiful Place in America by Good Morning America)— yet another testament to Traverse City’s abundant charms.
How many days do you need in Traverse City?
To experience an ideal extended weekend retreat, allocate three to four days for a visit to Traverse City and the surrounding area!
What are the top attractions in Traverse City?
Discover the premier attractions in Traverse City, such as the majestic Lake Michigan, the bustling downtown area of Traverse City, the awe-inspiring Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the picturesque Traverse City Clinch Park and Grand Traverse natural Education Preserve . Alongside these natural wonders is a thriving cultural scene, dining at eats most delicious and lively festivals waiting for you to enjoy!
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