things to do in traverse city michigan

Traverse City, Michigan, is a beautiful city surrounded by Lake Michigan and the surrounding Leelanau Peninsula. Here are some things to do in Traverse City:

1. Visit the Beaches: Traverse City has several beautiful beaches, including Clinch Park Beach, Grand Traverse Bay Beach, and East Bay Beach. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
2. Wineries and Vineyards: Traverse City is known for its wine country, with over 30 wineries and vineyards in the area. Take a wine tour or tasting to sample some of the region’s best wines.
3. National Cherry Festival: If you’re visiting in July, be sure to check out the National Cherry Festival, which celebrates the city’s cherry industry with parades, concerts, and food vendors.
4. Traverse City Farmers Market: Every Saturday from May to October, the Traverse City Farmers Market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
5. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Just a short drive from Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers hiking, camping, and scenic views of Lake Michigan.
6. Traverse City Downtown: The downtown area is filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Be sure to check out the Traverse City Visitor Center for information on local attractions.
7. Grand Traverse Bay: Take a scenic drive along the Grand Traverse Bay and enjoy the stunning views of the bay and surrounding countryside.
8. Traverse City Golf Courses: Traverse City has several golf courses, including the Traverse City Golf Course and the Bay Harbor Golf Club.
9. Downtown Traverse City Art Walk: Every Thursday evening, downtown Traverse City hosts an Art Walk, featuring local artists and galleries.
10. Traverse City Light Opera: If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the Traverse City Light Opera, which produces a variety of musicals and operas.
11. Traverse City Food Scene: Traverse City is known for its food scene, with a variety of restaurants serving everything from fresh seafood to gourmet burgers.
12. Leelanau Peninsula Wineries: The Leelanau Peninsula is home to several wineries, including the Leelanau Cellars and the Left Foot Charley Winery.
13. Traverse City Kayak Rentals: Rent a kayak and explore the waters of Traverse City, including the Grand Traverse Bay and the Leelanau Peninsula.
14. Traverse City Bike Rentals: Traverse City has several bike rental shops, offering a variety of bikes for rent.
15. Traverse City Museum: The Traverse City Museum features exhibits on the city’s history, including its cherry industry and its role in the Underground Railroad.
16. Traverse City Botanical Gardens: The Traverse City Botanical Gardens features a variety of plants and flowers, including a beautiful rose garden.
17. Traverse City Farmers Market at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons: Every Saturday from May to October, the Traverse City Farmers Market is held at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons.
18. Traverse City Ice Rink: During the winter months, the Traverse City Ice Rink offers ice skating and other winter activities.
19. Traverse City Christmas Tree Farm: Visit a Christmas tree farm and pick out your own tree, or take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the farm.
20. Traverse City Summer Concert Series: During the summer months, the Traverse City Summer Concert Series features live music performances at the Traverse City Bandshell.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Traverse City, Michigan. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, food, or culture, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.