Do you feel like summer is passing you by? It doesn’t have to! This is the perfect time to experience summer in Traverse City. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute family getaway or a couples trip, this is a magical spot to enjoy the good life. Plus, Traverse City offers convenient lodging to suit every taste and budget, including hotels with waterfront views.
Best of all, this is a quick and easy trip for Michiganders. You can have the fun and relaxation you’re looking for without the stress of elaborate planning and long-distance travel. And isn’t fun and relaxation what summer is all about?
It’s easy to build an itinerary that fits your needs! To help you, here are a few highlights of summer in Traverse City:
Beaches and water activities
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is home to beautiful beaches. Put on your flip-flops and soak up the sun, or take a swim in the lake’s sparkling waters. Enjoy a cruise with one of the many boat companies like Traverse Tall Ship Company, which offers breakfast, ice cream and dinner cruises.
Need a little more action? Traverse City offers paddleboarding, wakeboarding, water skiing and kayaking. There are plenty of resources to help you get on the water and start your adventure.
Wining, dining and…cherries!
Known as the “Cherry Capital” of the world and home to many award-winning wineries, Traverse City is for foodies! In fact, Traverse City was named as one of the Five Top Food Towns by both Midwest Living and Bon Appetit. Locally sourced ingredients and farm-to-table dining experiences are the norm. Enjoy ample outdoor dining and waterfront dining that is so special during the summer season.
Cherries are a big part of the picture, of course. More tart cherries are produced in Traverse City than in any other part of the world. As you can guess, cherry pie is a Traverse City hallmark. For a classic piece of this summer treat, try the Grand Traverse Pie Company.
Kid-friendly dining is ample, diverse and delicious. Whatever tickles your kids taste buds, Traverse City probably has it. With loads of great restaurant choices for families, your kids can have their favorites like pizza, burgers, tacos and chicken tenders in many settings, from the more casual to more upscale. Traverse City boasts everything from gastro pubs to a 1950s diner and even Up North-style restaurants. Don’t miss Cherry Republic where Traverse City cherries are the star. The downtown flagship store features nearly 200 cherry products including salsa, soda pop and candy.
For an adults-only trip, be sure to check out Traverse City’s spectacular wineries, which offer tastings, tours, wine-pairing dinners and special events.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
A short drive from Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-see! A favorite for outdoor enthusiasts, this national park features impressive towering sand dunes that overlook Lake Michigan. Plus, there’s a stunning beach perfect for play and relaxation. Or explore the trails and experience the panoramic views. Sandboard down the dunes for a one-of-a-kind adventure!
Old Mission Peninsula
Filled with rolling hills, vineyards and cherry orchards, the Old Mission Peninsula is part of the Traverse City Wine Trail. Take a drive and enjoy the scenic route, then stop at the historic lighthouse, one of Old Mission’s charming restaurants or the state park.
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Park
Just one of the many kids activities in Traverse City, this popular attraction is a destination for family fun! Find your inner pirate at the award-winning 18-hole adventure golf course that features drawbridges, waterfalls and caves. All ages can play this course. Plus, there’s a go-cart track and bumper boats – complete with squirt guns!
Biking and hiking
Whether you are biking, hiking or taking a nature walk, summer in Traverse City is a great time for all of the above. Traverse City boasts 40-plus trails, so you can take your pick! Don’t want to bring your own bike? There are plenty of rental options available.
Highlights include the paved Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trail, a 10.5-mile trail that runs through the city. Or, try the impressive Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a paved multi-use trail at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
To experience majestic views, check out Empire Bluff at Sleeping Bear Dunes, one of most popular and scenic hiking spots in Traverse City. The TART and Sleeping Bear trails have plenty of spots to stop, take a breather, have a picnic and take in the natural beauty.
To find out more and to plan your Traverse City getaway, visit traversecity.com.