The first time I visited Traverse City, I expected a charming little lake town with a few wineries and nice beaches. I knew it was famous for cherries and wine, but I wasn’t expecting much beyond that. It didn’t take long to realize I’d underestimated it.
I started my morning wandering through downtown with a coffee in hand, browsing local shops and stopping at cozy cafés. By afternoon, I was driving along Old Mission Peninsula, pulling over every few miles for another vineyard or scenic overlook.
Before sunset, I found myself standing on top of the dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, taking in views of Lake Michigan that were even more impressive than I’d imagined.
What I loved most about Traverse City was how much variety it packed into one trip. Downtown has a fun mix of restaurants, boutiques, and waterfront parks, while just a short drive away you’ll find rolling vineyards, quiet beaches, charming harbor towns, and scenic hiking trails.
Whether you’re planning a summer vacation, a fall getaway for the changing colors, or a long weekend in northern Michigan, Traverse City has something for every kind of traveler. In this guide, I’m sharing my favorite things to do, along with practical tips to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time here.
Why Visit Traverse City?
Before visiting, I mostly knew Traverse City for its wineries and cherries, but I quickly realized there’s so much more to experience. One day you can kayak on Grand Traverse Bay, spend the afternoon exploring vineyards on Old Mission Peninsula, and end the evening watching the sunset over Lake Michigan.
One thing I appreciated most was how easy it was to explore. Most attractions are within a 20 to 40 minute drive, so you spend less time in the car and more time enjoying your trip. The city also has a relaxed pace that makes it easy to slow down and enjoy each stop.
The scenery was what impressed me most. Between the crystal clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay, rolling vineyards, charming lakeside towns, and the towering dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, there’s a surprising variety of landscapes packed into one destination.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a long weekend, Traverse City offers plenty to see without feeling overwhelming.
Best Things to Do in Traverse City
I always recommend spending your first day exploring downtown. It’s compact enough to walk around without needing your car, and it’s the perfect introduction to the city’s laid back atmosphere.
Between the local shops, waterfront parks, restaurants, and cafés, it’s easy to spend an entire day here without running out of things to do.
Walk Along Front Street
If there’s one place that captures the personality of Traverse City, it’s Front Street.
The street is lined with locally owned boutiques, bookstores, coffee shops, wine tasting rooms, art galleries, and restaurants, giving it a welcoming atmosphere that feels more local than touristy. I enjoyed wandering in and out of the shops without any real plan, and that’s honestly the best way to experience it.
You never know what you’ll find, whether it’s Michigan made gifts, handmade chocolates, or a cozy bookstore where you end up browsing longer than expected.
When hunger strikes, you’ll have plenty of choices. From casual cafés to upscale restaurants, Front Street is one of the best places to grab a meal. If you’re visiting during the warmer months, many restaurants open their patios, making it a great spot to sit outside, enjoy the weather, and people watch for a while.
Relax at Clinch Park Beach
One thing that surprised me was how close the beach is to downtown. Within just a few minutes of leaving Front Street, you can have your feet in the sand.
Clinch Park Beach sits along Grand Traverse Bay and is one of the city’s most popular places to cool off during summer. The water is shallow, calm, and incredibly clear, making it a great choice for families or anyone looking for an easy swim.
If you’d rather stay active, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the shoreline from the water.
Even if swimming isn’t on your itinerary, I’d still recommend stopping by in the evening. Watching the boats drift across the bay as the sun begins to set was one of my favorite moments in Traverse City, and it’s an easy way to end a day of sightseeing.
Walk the Boardman Lake Trail
After spending a few hours downtown, I was ready for somewhere a little quieter, and the Boardman Lake Trail was exactly what I was looking for.
This paved trail loops around Boardman Lake, passing through wooded areas, wetlands, and several peaceful viewpoints. It’s popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists, but it never felt overly busy during my visit.
You don’t have to walk the entire trail to enjoy it. Even a short stroll offers a nice break from the shops and restaurants downtown, and it’s a great place to slow down if your itinerary has been packed.
Visit the Village at Grand Traverse Commons
Out of everything I visited in Traverse City, Grand Traverse Commons was probably the biggest surprise.
The historic brick buildings were originally part of a state hospital dating back to the late 1800s, but today they’ve been beautifully restored into one of the city’s most unique gathering places. Instead of abandoned buildings, you’ll find coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques, bakeries, wineries, and small local businesses spread throughout the complex.
I spent much longer here than I expected, browsing the shops, grabbing lunch, and simply admiring the architecture. If you enjoy history, guided tours explain how the property has changed over the years and are well worth joining.
Behind the buildings, you’ll also find several wooded hiking trails that are perfect if you want to combine a little shopping with some time outdoors. It’s a place that’s easy to overlook when planning a trip, but I’m really glad I didn’t skip it.
Browse the Sara Hardy Farmers Market
If you’re visiting between May and October, I definitely recommend spending a little time at the Sara Hardy Farmers Market. It’s located near the waterfront, so it’s an easy stop if you’re already exploring downtown.
The market is filled with local vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables, artisan bread, cheeses, flowers, honey, homemade jams, and, depending on the season, plenty of cherry products. During the summer months, you’ll also find food vendors and local crafts, making it a fun place to wander even if you aren’t planning to buy much.
I always enjoy visiting farmers markets when I travel because they give you a better feel for the local community than most tourist attractions. I ended up picking up a few snacks and fresh fruit before heading out to Old Mission Peninsula, and it made for a perfect picnic with a view later in the day.
Explore Old Mission Peninsula
If I had to recommend just one scenic drive near Traverse City, it would be Old Mission Peninsula.
Stretching between the east and west arms of Grand Traverse Bay, this narrow peninsula is filled with vineyards, cherry orchards, rolling hills, and beautiful lake views.
It’s only about 19 miles long, but don’t let that fool you into thinking you’ll drive through it quickly. I kept finding places I wanted to stop, whether it was another winery, a roadside fruit stand, or a scenic overlook.
While you can drive from downtown to the lighthouse in around 40 minutes without stopping, I’d set aside at least half a day. If you enjoy wine tasting or photography, you could easily spend an entire day here without getting bored.
Visit Mission Point Lighthouse
At the very end of Old Mission Peninsula sits Mission Point Lighthouse, one of the area’s best known landmarks.
The lighthouse itself isn’t huge, but the location is what makes it special. Surrounded by water on three sides, it’s a peaceful place to walk along the rocky shoreline, enjoy the lake views, and take a break after the scenic drive.
If it’s open during your visit, it’s worth stepping inside the small museum to learn about the lighthouse’s history and the important role it played in guiding ships through the Great Lakes. You can also climb the observation tower for a different view of the surrounding area.
I found the atmosphere here much quieter than I expected, especially compared to some of the more popular stops around Traverse City. Arriving earlier in the day also meant fewer people and softer light for photos.
Take the Scenic M 37 Drive
Honestly, one of my favorite parts of visiting Old Mission Peninsula wasn’t a specific attraction, it was simply driving along M 37.
The road winds past vineyards, cherry orchards, historic barns, and overlooks where Grand Traverse Bay seems to appear around almost every corner. I lost count of how many times I pulled over just to admire the view or take another photo.
If you’re visiting in late September or early October, this drive becomes even more memorable as the trees begin changing color. It’s one of those roads where there’s no need to rush. Take your time, stop whenever something catches your eye, and enjoy the scenery.
Spend an Afternoon Wine Tasting
Old Mission Peninsula is home to some of Michigan’s best wineries, and even if you’re not a serious wine drinker, I’d still recommend visiting at least one or two.
Many of the wineries sit on hills overlooking Grand Traverse Bay, so you’re getting beautiful views along with your tasting. Most have outdoor patios where you can relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the scenery for a while.
Some of the most popular stops include Chateau Chantal, Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, Bonobo Winery, and Bowers Harbor Vineyards. Each has a slightly different atmosphere, so if you have time, it’s worth trying more than one.
If you’re planning to spend the afternoon tasting wine, consider booking a guided wine tour or using a shuttle service. That way everyone can enjoy the experience without worrying about driving.
Stop at Bowers Harbor
Many people drive right past Bowers Harbor on their way to the wineries, but I thought it was one of the nicest places to slow down for a bit.
The small marina, quiet beach, and peaceful waterfront make it a great place to take a break from sightseeing. On calm days, the water is perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, and there are plenty of spots where you can simply sit and enjoy the view.
If you’ve picked up snacks at the farmers market or lunch from downtown, this is also a great place for a picnic before continuing your drive along the peninsula.
Explore Suttons Bay
Suttons Bay was one of my favorite small towns near Traverse City. It’s the kind of place where you arrive planning to spend an hour and somehow end up staying much longer.
The downtown area is lined with locally owned boutiques, art galleries, bookstores, coffee shops, and restaurants, all just a short walk from the waterfront. I grabbed a coffee, wandered through a few stores, and eventually found myself sitting near the marina watching sailboats come and go across the bay.
If you’re looking for a slower pace than downtown Traverse City, Suttons Bay is a great place to spend a relaxed afternoon. During summer, you can also walk along the waterfront, enjoy the small beach, or stop for lunch with a view of the water before continuing your drive around the peninsula.
Drive the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
If it’s your first visit, I’d start with the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
This 7.4 mile loop is one of the easiest ways to experience the park because it takes you past many of its best viewpoints without requiring long hikes. Along the drive, you’ll find overlooks of Lake Michigan, Glen Lake, rolling sand dunes, and dense forests, with plenty of places to stop for photos or simply enjoy the view.
One overlook rises about 450 feet above Lake Michigan, and standing there looking across the water was easily one of my favorite moments of the trip. I planned to drive through fairly quickly, but every stop seemed worth getting out for, so the drive took much longer than expected. I’d allow at least two hours if you enjoy taking photos or short walks.
Climb the Sleeping Bear Dune
The famous Dune Climb looks surprisingly manageable from the parking lot.
Then you start walking.
Climbing loose sand is much harder than it appears, and I definitely underestimated how tiring it would be. The climb is steep in places, but once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over Glen Lake and the surrounding dunes that make the effort worthwhile.
Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and if you’re visiting in summer, try to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The sand can become extremely hot in the middle of the day.
Go Wine Tasting Around Traverse City
Wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Traverse City, and after visiting both wine regions, it’s easy to see why. The cool climate produces excellent Rieslings, Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, and sparkling wines, while the vineyard views are just as memorable as the tastings.
Old Mission Peninsula is my top recommendation for first time visitors. The wineries are closer together, easy to reach from downtown, and many overlook Grand Traverse Bay. Leelanau Peninsula offers a quieter, more rural experience, with wineries scattered between rolling hills and charming small towns.
Some of the most popular wineries include Chateau Chantal, Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, Bonobo Winery, and Bowers Harbor Vineyards. If you plan to visit several wineries, consider booking a guided tour or using a shuttle service so everyone can enjoy the day.
Relax on Traverse City’s Best Beaches
After a day of sightseeing, there’s no better place to unwind than one of Traverse City’s beaches.
Clinch Park Beach is the most convenient if you’re staying downtown, while West End Beach is a good choice for families thanks to its wider stretch of sand and calm swimming conditions. Bryant Park Beach is usually a little quieter if you’re looking for a more peaceful spot.
If you’re visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes, don’t miss Esch Beach. It feels much more secluded than the beaches near town, and the sunsets are absolutely beautiful.
One thing to remember is that Lake Michigan stays cool even in summer. The water can be chilly, but it’s incredibly refreshing after a warm afternoon of exploring.
Best Day Trips from Traverse City
One of the best things about staying in Traverse City is that you’re within easy driving distance of several charming towns and natural attractions. If you have an extra day or two, it’s well worth exploring beyond the city.
Glen Arbor is a great choice if you enjoy shopping, cafés, and easy access to Sleeping Bear Dunes. Leland is home to the historic Fishtown district, where you can browse local shops, watch fishing boats come and go, and try freshly smoked whitefish. Suttons Bay is perfect for a slower afternoon, with boutique stores, cozy cafés, and a scenic waterfront.
If you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss Torch Lake, famous for its crystal clear turquoise water. It’s one of Michigan’s most beautiful lakes and a great place for swimming, boating, or simply relaxing by the shore.
Seasonal Things to Do
One of the things I like most about Traverse City is that it feels different every time you visit. Each season brings its own highlights, so there’s really no bad time to plan a trip.
Spring
Spring is a quieter time to visit, with blooming cherry orchards, fewer crowds, and comfortable temperatures for hiking and sightseeing. It’s also a wonderful season to visit the wineries before the busy summer months begin.
Summer
Summer is the liveliest time of year. The beaches are busy, boats fill Grand Traverse Bay, outdoor patios are packed, and festivals bring plenty of energy to downtown. It’s the best season for kayaking, swimming, and long evenings by the water, but it’s also the busiest, so booking accommodations early is a good idea.
Fall
If I had to pick one season, I’d choose early fall. The vineyards and forests burst into shades of red, orange, and gold, the weather stays pleasantly cool, and wine harvest season gives the entire region a special atmosphere. It’s easily one of the most beautiful times to take a scenic drive.
Winter
Winter brings a completely different side of Traverse City. Snow covered streets, festive lights, holiday markets, and nearby cross country skiing and snowshoeing create a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for a quiet weekend getaway.
Where to Eat in Traverse City
One thing that surprised me about Traverse City was how good the food scene is. For a relatively small city, there’s an impressive mix of cafés, breweries, farm to table restaurants, and waterfront dining.
I liked starting my mornings at one of the downtown coffee shops with locally roasted coffee and a fresh pastry before heading out for the day. Lunch is a great time to try local specialties like whitefish sandwiches, gourmet burgers, or fresh salads made with seasonal ingredients.
Dinner is where Traverse City really stands out. Many restaurants focus on locally sourced produce, fresh Great Lakes fish, and wines from nearby vineyards. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, a waterfront restaurant overlooking Grand Traverse Bay is hard to beat.
And before you leave, make sure you try a slice of homemade cherry pie or another cherry dessert. After all, this is the Cherry Capital of the World.
A Simple Three Day Itinerary
If you have three full days in Traverse City, I think that’s enough time to experience the area’s highlights without feeling like you’re constantly rushing from one attraction to the next. This itinerary balances sightseeing, scenic drives, outdoor activities, and plenty of time to relax along the waterfront.
Day 1: Discover Downtown Traverse City
Start your trip by getting to know downtown Traverse City. Grab breakfast and a locally roasted coffee before strolling along Front Street, where you’ll find independent boutiques, bookstores, art galleries, and specialty shops. If you’re visiting between spring and fall, stop by the Sara Hardy Farmers Market to pick up fresh fruit or snacks for later in the day.
From there, walk over to Clinch Park Beach for a swim or simply enjoy the views across Grand Traverse Bay. After lunch, head to the Village at Grand Traverse Commons to browse the shops, admire the historic buildings, or take a short walk on the nearby trails.
Finish your first day with dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants and, if the weather is clear, stick around to watch the sunset over the bay.
Day 2: Explore Old Mission Peninsula
Spend your second day exploring the beautiful Old Mission Peninsula. Start the scenic drive in the morning, stopping at overlooks, roadside fruit stands, and a few wineries along the way. Continue to Mission Point Lighthouse at the northern tip of the peninsula, where you can walk along the shoreline and enjoy the peaceful setting.
After lunch, visit another winery or two before making your way back toward Traverse City. If you’re visiting with a partner, a sunset sailing cruise is a wonderful way to end the day. Otherwise, enjoy a relaxed dinner overlooking Grand Traverse Bay.
Day 3: Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes
Dedicate your final day to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, about a 40 minute drive from Traverse City. Begin with the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, stopping at the overlooks to take in the incredible views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding dunes.
If you’re up for a little adventure, climb the famous Dune Climb or take the short hike to Empire Bluff for one of the best panoramic views in the park. Before heading back, spend some time exploring Glen Haven Historic Village or relax at one of the nearby beaches.
It’s the perfect way to end your trip and one of those places you’ll likely remember long after you’ve returned home.
Practical Tips for Visiting Traverse City
A little planning can make your trip much smoother, especially if you’re visiting during the busy summer or fall season.
If you’re traveling between June and October, book your hotel, winery tastings, and sunset cruises well in advance, as they can fill up quickly on weekends. Having a car is also the easiest way to explore since many of the best places, including Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau Peninsula, and Sleeping Bear Dunes, are outside downtown.
One thing that surprised me was how quickly the weather changes near Lake Michigan. Even on warm days, evenings can be cool, so it’s worth packing a light jacket.
If you plan to visit several wineries, book a guided tour or arrange a designated driver so everyone can enjoy the experience safely.
Finally, don’t try to pack every attraction into one trip. Some of my favorite memories came from taking the scenic route, stopping at unexpected viewpoints, and spending a little longer in places I hadn’t planned on.
Common Mistakes First Time Visitors Make
The biggest mistake I think first time visitors make is treating Traverse City as just a downtown destination. While the city center is fun to explore, many of the area’s best experiences are found outside town. Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau Peninsula, and Sleeping Bear Dunes are all easy day trips and absolutely worth the drive.
Another mistake is underestimating how much time you’ll want at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It’s easy to think you’ll stop for an hour or two, but once you start exploring the overlooks, hiking the trails, or relaxing on the beach, half the day disappears.
If you can, dedicate an entire day to the park rather than trying to squeeze it into a busy itinerary.
Many visitors also wait until the last minute to book winery tastings or sunset cruises. During summer and fall, the most popular spots can fill up days or even weeks in advance, especially on weekends.
Finally, don’t try to fit every attraction into one trip. Traverse City isn’t the kind of destination you need to rush through. Slowing down, taking scenic drives, and enjoying long lunches or sunsets by the water is part of what makes visiting here so enjoyable.
Is Traverse City Worth Visiting?
Absolutely.
After spending time here, it’s easy to understand why Traverse City has become one of Michigan’s favorite vacation destinations. It offers a little bit of everything without feeling overly busy or commercial.
You can spend the morning hiking through towering sand dunes, the afternoon visiting award winning wineries, and the evening watching the sunset over Grand Traverse Bay.
What surprised me most was the variety. I expected great wineries and beautiful beaches, but I didn’t expect charming small towns, excellent restaurants, scenic drives, and so many outdoor activities all within a short drive of one another.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a relaxing long weekend, Traverse City has enough to keep every day different. It’s the kind of place that’s easy to enjoy on your first visit and even easier to imagine coming back to explore more.
Conclusion
Whether you’re visiting the wineries, the beaches, or the chance to finally experience Sleeping Bear Dunes, Traverse City has a way of making you want to stay just a little longer. I arrived expecting a relaxing lakeside getaway, but I left realizing just how much this corner of northern Michigan has to offer.
One day I was wandering through waterfront towns and tasting local wines, the next I was standing on top of towering sand dunes overlooking Lake Michigan. Even the quieter moments, like watching boats drift across Grand Traverse Bay or discovering a small café on Front Street, ended up becoming some of my favorite memories.
What I love most about Traverse City is that you don’t have to rush. Take the scenic drive instead of the fastest route, stop when you see a beautiful viewpoint, spend an extra hour at the beach, or linger a little longer over dinner by the water. Those unplanned moments often become the highlights of the trip.
I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable visit and gives you a good starting point for exploring everything Traverse City has to offer. Happy travels!