Traverse City surprised me. From morning light bouncing off Lake Michigan to the quiet in the vineyards at dusk, every moment felt like discovering a new reason to stay longer. If you love lakes, wine, small‑town charm, and nature that makes you stop and stare, this is your kind of place.
Here’s what I think are the best things to do, eat, stay, and explore in Traverse City. Use this as your guide, whether you have 2 days or 5.
Downtown Traverse City & Front Street Vibes
You can’t come to Traverse City and skip Front Street it’s the heart of the city, and honestly, where I spent most of my time when I wasn’t by the water or in the vineyards.
The vibe here is a mix of old-school charm and modern indie energy. Historic red-brick buildings line the street, filled with locally owned bookstores, boutiques, ice cream shops, and a surprising number of really good coffee spots. The sidewalks are wide and walkable, and it never felt overly crowded even on summer weekends.
Here’s how I’d spend a full day downtown:
Morning: Slow Start with Coffee & Book Browsing
Grab a pour-over from Mundos Roasting & Co. (a favorite among locals) or BLK MRKT, which felt more like a creative hub than just a café. The coffee is strong, the vibes are cozy, and the pastries disappear fast.
After coffee, I wandered through Horizon Books a multilevel bookstore with creaky floors and a perfect little reading nook upstairs. If you’re a bookworm, you’ll get stuck here (in the best way).
Midday: Shop, Snack, and Soak in the Small-Town Energy
There’s something relaxing about poking into shops with zero agenda. You’ll find everything from cherry jams and wine-infused soaps to Michigan-made leather goods and locally designed clothing.
Don’t miss Cherry Republic yes, it’s touristy, but also kind of iconic. Try the cherry salsa samples, grab a cherry soda, and head out with a bag of dried cherries for snacking later.
I also grabbed lunch from The Towne Plaza once and took it to-go for a quick picnic by the water. Their pork belly is unforgettable.
Evening: Waterfront Walk + Drinks
In the evening, walk over to Clinch Park Marina and stroll the path that runs along Grand Traverse Bay. The breeze, the sunset, the occasional sailboat it’s a simple pleasure but one that stays with you.
End your evening with a drink or two at Low Bar (a cozy speakeasy hidden under 7 Monks Taproom) or go classic with a cherry cider flight at Taproot.
Bonus Stop: Village at Grand Traverse Commons
This place deserves its own detour. It used to be an old asylum now it’s a sprawling complex of beautiful old buildings filled with boutiques, coffee shops, art galleries, and even a few tasting rooms. The grounds are surrounded by trails if you feel like walking off your croissant from Pleasanton Bakery (which you should absolutely eat warm).
If you’re here on a Wednesday or Saturday, swing by the Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market in the morning. I bought fresh peaches, tried goat cheese I still think about, and listened to live music while sipping cold brew.
It’s downtown Traverse City slow-paced but filled with good stuff in every direction.
Beaches, Water & Dawn Over the Bay
If you’re a water person, you’ll be in your element here. Traverse City gives you Lake Michigan, inland bays, peaceful rivers, and sailboats dotting the skyline all in one place.
I spent at least a little time by the water every day and honestly, that might’ve been my favorite part of the whole trip.
West End Beach
This one’s easy to get to from downtown and perfect if you want to lay in the sun, read, or just take a nap with the sounds of gentle waves. It’s clean, not too crowded (even in peak season), and has a laid-back local feel. I brought lunch here twice and stayed longer than planned both times.
Great spot for sunsets, by the way bring a blanket and watch the sky change colors over the bay.
Clinch Park Beach & Marina
Right next to the marina, this beach has a bit more energy especially families and groups. There’s a splash pad for kids and a small café for snacks. You’ll also see a lot of locals biking or rollerblading along the paved trail nearby.
If you walk a little further from the main area, you’ll find quieter pockets where you can sit by the water in peace.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking the Boardman River
This is one of those things that doesn’t seem like a big deal until you’re out there, quietly floating past trees, bridges, and the back patios of cafés. I went early in the morning, and it felt like I had the river to myself. You can rent from The River Outfitters they’re super chill and right near the launch spot.
Zee tip: Wear a hat and bring water, even though it’s shaded, the sun still gets strong after 10 am.
Tall Ship Manitou Sunset Cruise
This felt like stepping into a different century. The Manitou is a replica 1800s schooner, and they let you help raise the sails if you want. I booked the evening wine-tasting cruise, and it was such a vibe local wine, lake breeze, the sound of sails flapping.
You don’t need to love boats to enjoy this. I mostly sat at the bow, quietly watching the horizon while sipping a glass of rosé from a vineyard we’d visited earlier in the day.
Wineries, Vineyards & Peninsula Drives
If you only have one day in Traverse City, I’d say spend it here weaving your way through the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, sipping wine with a view in every direction.
This is wine country, Michigan-style. You won’t find massive commercial vineyards or over-the-top tours. What you will find is charming tasting rooms perched on hillsides, long gravel roads leading to family-owned estates, and wines that actually taste like the land around you crisp, fresh, and unpretentious.
I spent two full days exploring both peninsulas, and here’s what I’d recommend if you want wine, views, and a little bit of magic.
First: Decide Which Peninsula (Or Do Both)
There are two major wine trails here, and both are worth your time.
Old Mission Peninsula
Closer to town (about 20 minutes from downtown Traverse City), this narrow stretch of land has bays on both sides, so almost every vineyard has water views. The drives alone are beautiful winding roads, rolling hills, and cherry orchards.
Highlights include:
- Chateau Chantal – This one’s popular for a reason. It sits on a ridge with panoramic views of both East and West Bay. I tried their pinot gris and sat out on the balcony for almost an hour just soaking it all in.
- Mari Vineyards – The wine here leans more toward Italian styles (think Nebbiolo, Sangiovese), and the tasting room feels like a Tuscan villa. It’s classy, but not stiff.
- Brys Estate – My personal favorite. The deck overlooks lavender fields and vines, and their rosé was light and summery. If they’re serving the frosé, get it. Trust me.
If you want something a little different, stop by 2 Lads Winery it’s more modern in design, and the views are especially good around sunset.
Leelanau Peninsula
A bit more spread out and rustic than Old Mission, but equally beautiful. It’s a 30–40 minute drive from Traverse, and the whole route is dotted with adorable towns like Suttons Bay and Leland.
- MAWBY – If you like sparkling wine, this place is fun and a little quirky. The names of their bottles are playful, the vibes are chill, and they offer multiple flight options.
- Shady Lane Cellars – Tucked among trees with an open patio that’s perfect for slow sipping. I liked their dry Riesling, and the charcuterie board was surprisingly good.
- Blustone Vineyards – This one has modern architecture and a minimalist feel. The tasting room has huge windows overlooking the vineyard, perfect on a rainy day.
What to Eat While Wine Tasting
Most vineyards don’t have full kitchens, but a few offer light bites or charcuterie boards (Brys Estate and Blustone do a good job). For something more filling, I suggest:
- Packing a picnic and finding a quiet beach or scenic turnout along the drive.
- Grabbing lunch in Suttons Bay, I had a fantastic open-faced sandwich at Martha’s Leelanau Table.
Tips for a Self-Guided Wine Tour
- Start early, most places open by 11am and close by 5–6pm.
- Pick 3–4 wineries per day max. After that, it just blends together (pun intended).
- Appoint a designated driver, or book a small-group wine tour. I did one with Traverse City Wine & Beer Tours, and it made the day feel relaxed and social.
- Bring water and snacks. Hydration is key if you’re tasting all afternoon.
- Don’t be shy, the staff at most wineries are incredibly welcoming. Ask questions, try something new, and take your time.
Bonus: Sunset Stop
If you’re on Old Mission Peninsula near golden hour, drive to the Mission Point Lighthouse. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and there’s a quiet beach where you can sit with your last glass of wine (if you brought a bottle) and watch the sun drop into the water.
Hiking, Dunes & Nature Escapes
Traverse City isn’t just about vineyards and lake views the nature here is next-level. Whether you’re looking to stretch your legs after a wine tour or spend a full day chasing views, there’s no shortage of scenic trails, wild dunes, and quiet forest hideaways.
One thing I noticed? Even the popular spots never felt too crowded. You can find peace here, even in summer.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
This was the big one, and it absolutely lived up to the hype.
Sleeping Bear Dunes is about 40 minutes west of Traverse City, and the second you drive in, the world shifts. Massive dunes rise out of the forest, and the air smells like pine and freshwater. It’s wild, it’s windy, and it’s beautiful in that raw, untouched way.
If you only do one hike here, make it the:
Empire Bluff Trail
- Distance: 1.5 miles round trip
- Time: About 45 minutes
- Why I loved it: The trail winds through quiet woods before opening up to a wow-level overlook of Lake Michigan. The water is so blue it almost doesn’t look real.
- Bring water, wear shoes with grip (the last bit can be sandy), and get there early parking is limited.
Other great options in the area:
- Pyramid Point Trail: Short, steep, and leads to an overlook that feels like you’re on the edge of the world. The trailhead is a bit hidden, but it’s worth the detour.
- Dune Climb: Iconic but intense it’s basically a giant sand hill you scramble up. Great if you’ve got kids or just want the challenge, but be warned: going up is a workout, and going down is a sand-filled tumble.
If you’re more into scenic drives than hikes, don’t miss the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive it loops through the park and offers epic overlooks without much walking.
Hickory Meadows
Tucked just outside of downtown Traverse City, Hickory Meadows is a quiet local spot for a casual walk or sunset stroll.
- Why go: Wide, grassy trails through open fields and light woods, with views of the bay in the distance.
- Good for: Morning walks, dog-friendly outings, and anyone who wants to get some steps in without leaving town.
- I went one morning before breakfast and had the place almost to myself. The light was soft, birds were chirping, and it just felt peaceful.
Boardman Lake Trail
This one’s an easy, accessible trail that loops around Boardman Lake perfect if you want to be near the water but don’t feel like driving far.
- Distance: ~4 miles loop
- Highlights: Paved and gravel paths, shaded sections, benches by the water, and the occasional paddleboarder or kayaker floating by.
- I liked doing this in the late afternoon it’s shaded, breezy, and you can grab a bite or drink afterward nearby.
If you want to kayak or paddle, there are rental places near the trail (like The River Outfitters) that make it super easy to combine walking and water time.
Hidden Beaches & Forest Preserves
If you’re craving even more nature (and fewer people), here are two spots that felt like local secrets:
- Pelizzari Natural Area on Old Mission Peninsula: short, quiet trails through forest and farmland. Great for stretching your legs between wineries.
- Bowers Harbor Preserve: There’s a peaceful wooded path here that leads to a bluff overlooking West Bay. It’s simple, but lovely, especially near sunset.
Tips for Hiking & Nature Exploring in Traverse City
- Wear real shoes: Even the short hikes often have sandy or uneven sections. I saw people in flip-flops struggling on the dunes not worth it.
- Check the weather: It changes fast near the lake. I got rained on twice and then sunburned in the same day.
- Bug spray: If you’re going into the woods, especially in early summer, trust me on this one.
- Pack snacks & water: You’ll work up an appetite, and options are limited once you’re out near the dunes.
Day Trips from Traverse City
Make time for areas just outside the city the beauty lies in the drive too.
- Leelanau Peninsula: small towns, vineyards, scenic roads.
- The east and west shores of Lake Michigan for more beach and charming small towns.
- Explore more of Michigan’s wine country and orchard countryside.
Where to Eat & Drink in Traverse City
If you like fresh, local, seasonal food, Traverse City will win you over fast. Whether you’re craving lake fish tacos, wood-fired pizza, or something cherry-infused (because let’s be honest, you can’t avoid the cherries), this town delivers.
I tried to balance sit-down meals with casual spots you can just stumble into after a hike or wine tasting. Here are the places I’d happily go back to and a few I regret not having time for.
For a Cozy Morning Start
Mundos Roasting & Co. – My favorite morning spot downtown. The coffee is strong, the vibes are relaxed, and the baristas always seem happy you’re there. I usually grabbed a cappuccino and a warm croissant, then sat by the window watching the town wake up.
BLK MRKT – A hip, minimalistic café inside The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. If you’re into pour-overs and thoughtful playlists, this is your place.
Rose & Fern Café – A light, plant-filled café that felt like someone’s cool apartment. Their breakfast burrito? So good after a walk around Hickory Meadows.
For Lunch (or That “Let’s Grab Something Light” Feeling)
The Little Fleet – It’s an outdoor food truck park with a bar and tons of seating. I had a killer taco trio here one afternoon (plus a frozen margarita I wasn’t expecting to be that good). Easy, affordable, and fun.
Spanglish – Hidden inside the Commons complex, this Mexican spot is a gem. Everything is made from scratch, and the service is so friendly it almost feels like you’re dining in someone’s home. Get the enchiladas.
Raduno – If you’re in the mood for sandwiches or fresh pasta to-go. I grabbed a turkey panini and a cookie for an afternoon picnic at the beach and honestly wish I’d bought two.
For a Sit-Down Dinner with Local Flavor
Trattoria Stella – Probably the most recommended restaurant in town and with good reason. It’s in a beautifully restored historic building at the Commons, and the menu changes seasonally. I had fresh pasta with locally foraged mushrooms and still think about it. Make a reservation.
The Cooks’ House – A tiny spot that’s big on sustainable, locally sourced food. If you’re a fan of tasting menus and small plates, this is your splurge dinner. It’s not stuffy though just thoughtful.
Farm Club – A bit outside town, but the drive is part of the charm. It’s part restaurant, part working farm, part brewery, and 100% relaxing. The setting is open and breezy, and the menu is full of fresh veggies, grains, meats, and housemade everything. I sat outside under string lights, watching the sky fade it was that kind of evening.
Sweet Treats & Cherry Everything
Moomers Homemade Ice Cream – Worth the drive. They have over 160 flavors (not all at once), and the cherry moobilee is legendary. You can even eat your cone while looking out at the dairy farm where the ice cream comes from.
Cherry Republic – Tourist-y? Yes. Still fun? Absolutely. Cherry soda, cherry BBQ sauce, cherry jam this place takes cherries to another level. I bought way too many snacks here and zero regrets.
Drinks, Cider, and Casual Evenings
7 Monks Taproom – Laid-back beer bar with a great Michigan craft beer list. Perfect for a casual night after a day outdoors.
Low Bar – Hidden underneath 7 Monks, this speakeasy-style bar has cozy leather couches, moody lighting, and really good cocktails. Felt like a secret.
Taproot Cider House – I didn’t expect to like this as much as I did. They serve flights of local ciders, and the food is good too (think burgers, flatbreads, small plates). Nice spot if you want something chill but not basic.
Bonus Local Tip
If you’re visiting in summer, check for food trucks and pop-up dinners I stumbled across a pierogi truck at the farmers market that absolutely hit the spot. Also, restaurants get busy during cherry festival and wine weekends, so it’s worth booking ahead for dinner.
Where to Stay in Traverse City
Figuring out where to stay in Traverse City really depends on what kind of trip you’re after. Do you want to be in the heart of downtown, walking distance to shops and restaurants? Or would you rather wake up surrounded by vineyards or stay somewhere quiet with lake views?
I’ve stayed in a few different areas and scoped out even more here’s what I’d recommend based on what kind of experience you’re going for.
Downtown Traverse City – For First-Timers & Food Lovers
If this is your first visit, or you’re planning to explore a lot of restaurants, bars, and shops staying downtown makes everything super easy.
You’ll be walking distance from Front Street, Clinch Park Beach, the Boardman River trail, and coffee shops that open early (important). You can also hit the wineries during the day and come back for a proper dinner without worrying about driving far.
Some popular options:
- Hotel Indigo – Trendy, right on the water, with a rooftop bar that has great bay views.
- Delamar Traverse City – A bit more upscale but still close to everything. Some rooms have lake views, and the on-site restaurant is really solid.
- Park Place Hotel – More old-school charm than modern luxury, but it’s super central and walkable.
Zee Tip: Parking can be tricky downtown during peak summer weekends. If your hotel doesn’t have free parking, factor in extra time (or look for lots just off Front Street).
Old Mission Peninsula – For a Quiet, Romantic Escape
If your ideal trip is sipping wine in the afternoon, watching the sunset over the bay, and waking up to silence (and maybe deer in the yard), stay on Old Mission Peninsula.
It’s peaceful, scenic, and feels far from everything even though it’s only 15–20 minutes from downtown. Most places here are Airbnbs, cottages, or B&Bs rather than big hotels.
Look for:
- Cottages or guest suites at vineyards (some small wineries have them!)
- Airbnbs with bay views, I stayed at one with a wraparound porch and could see the water on both sides of the peninsula.
Bonus: You’ll be close to wineries like Mari, Chateau Chantal, and Brys Estate which makes planning wine days super convenient.
Leelanau Peninsula / Suttons Bay – For the Laid-Back Explorer
Leelanau Peninsula has its own slow rhythm small lakeside towns, sleepy harbors, vineyards hidden down dirt roads. If you want fewer crowds and don’t mind driving a bit more, this area feels like a vacation from your vacation.
Suttons Bay makes a great base it has a beach, cute shops, and a few great restaurants (plus wine tasting right nearby).
Options to check out:
- The Inn at Black Star Farms – If you want to stay at a working vineyard with on-site tastings and trails.
- Hotels or guesthouses in Leland or Glen Arbor – More rustic, ideal if you’re visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Lakeside Stays – For Families or Water Lovers
If your goal is to be on the water every day, there are lots of lakefront options, but they book up fast, especially in summer.
Look around:
- East Bay / West Bay – More traditional hotels and resorts with lake access.
- Airbnbs with private docks or beach access – Great for families or small groups.
- Traverse City State Park Campground – Yes, it’s a legit campground right near the beach. If you’re into tent camping or RVs, it’s walkable to East Bay beaches and bike-friendly too.
If you’re traveling with kids, look for places with kitchenettes, parking, and access to a beach or play area. Traverse City is very family-friendly, and a little prep goes a long way.
Budget-Friendly Options
Traverse City isn’t the cheapest, especially in high season but you do have options.
- Chain hotels just outside town (on US-31 or Garfield Ave) often have lower rates.
- Hostels or shared Airbnbs – Good for solo travelers or digital nomads.
- Traverse City KOA – A clean, affordable campground option with cabins if you don’t want to pitch a tent.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay
I’ve stayed downtown when I wanted to be close to everything, and on the peninsula when I just wanted peace and wine. Both are great it just depends on your vibe. If you’re visiting for the first time, I’d start downtown and plan a day trip out to the wineries. If you’ve been before and want more quiet, stay by the bay or in wine country.
Wherever you stay, book early (especially in July and August), and check if your spot has AC, parking, and views they’re not always a given.
When to Visit & Travel Tips
- Best time: Late June through September brings warm weather and cherry season. Fall is gorgeous for color. Winter and early spring quieter may have snow, slower pace.
- Transportation: A car helps, especially for getting to peninsulas and vineyards. But downtown you can walk, bike, or use local rides.
- Booking: In high season (summer, during festivals), accommodations fill up. Book ahead.
- Sunrise/sunset: The light over the lake & vineyards is magical make time for earlymornings or evenings.
- What to pack: Layers the breeze off the lake can be cool in mornings/evenings, even in summer. Comfy shoes for walking, and perhaps a windbreaker.
Final Thoughts
Traverse City is one of those places that feels like two vacations in one: you get the energy of a vibrant lake town and the calm of slow afternoons in vineyards or walking paths. It’s laid‑back, yet there’s always something new around the bend. Whatever your pace whether you want full days of activity or lazy, unplanned afternoons, Traverse City makes room.
If I could do it again, I’d go for longer, stay closer to the lake, and let the day unfold. I hope this guide helps you find your own mix of stillness and discovery in Traverse City.