Weekend Getaway: Traverse City, Michigan
Looking for the perfect summer getaway just a few hours drive from many major Midwestern cities? Want to have a relaxing beach vacation and experience one of the country’s top wine regions all in the same weekend? A quick trip to Traverse City, Michigan might be the perfect weekend getaway for you. You will not find a more charming lake town, known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unique attractions. Whether you're hiking the stunning trails of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, exploring the vibrant downtown, or savoring local wines and farm-to-table cuisine, Traverse City has something for everyone. Plan your weekend escape to Traverse City and discover why this hidden gem is a must-visit destination.
I actually grew up in Michigan and took countless trips to Traverse City and other areas in Northern Michigan. I may be biased, but once you learn all of the incredible things this region has to offer, you won’t be able to book your trip fast enough. From the impressive wine country to the natural beauty of the Great Lakes, Traverse City has something to behold for everyone. I’ve curated this perfect itinerary based on several trips taken throughout my life, so let’s dig in!
Note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission based on experiences you book via my links. This comes at no extra cost to you, and allows me to continue running my small business!
Where is Traverse City?
Traverse City, nestled in the northwest corner of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, is a picturesque destination renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant culture. Situated on the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, this charming city offers stunning waterfront views and easy access to outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. Surrounded by rolling vineyards and orchards, Traverse City is a hub for wine enthusiasts and foodies, with its local wineries, breweries, and farm-to-table dining experiences. The city's thriving downtown area features boutique shopping, art galleries, and a lively entertainment scene, making it a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural splendor. Known as the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City also hosts the annual National Cherry Festival, drawing visitors from all over to celebrate this iconic fruit.
Is Traverse City Worth Visiting?
Like I said, I’m biased. I grew up in the beautiful state of Michigan, but took it for granted the entirety of my childhood. I moved away when I was 17, and haven’t lived there since. But now I take every opportunity I can get to go back and explore more of everything the beautiful state has to offer, including many weekend trips to Traverse City. Girls trips to wineries with my mom and grandma, a romantic weekend away with my now fiance, and Labor Day Weekend camping trips with friends from college, Traverse City holds so many of my favorite memories and I know it is the same for countless others. The vibrant downtown area is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. With activities ranging from kayaking and biking to skiing and fall foliage tours, Traverse City provides a memorable experience for visitors year-round.
Where to Stay in Traverse City
Traverse City State Park Campground
Finding accommodation in Traverse City for a reasonable price can get outrageous, especially during the summer months when it becomes a popular tourist destination. If you are making the drive to northern Michigan and have the gear, consider a camping trip! I have loved all the times I have stayed at the state park, as well as several other beautiful campgrounds in the area. The campground is equipped with many amenities, including clean and updated bathrooms, electricity, and direct access to the waterfront on Grand Traverse Bay.
Grand Traverse Resort & Spa
For those not looking to rough it at a campground, there are several more luxurious options to complete your getaway to Traverse City. Set on 900 acres of picturesque Northern Michigan landscape, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa offers a premier escape for both relaxation and adventure. With room rates generally ranging from $150 to $400 per night, this luxurious resort features an array of accommodations, including hotel rooms, suites, and condominiums. Guests can indulge in a world-class spa, three championship golf courses, and diverse dining options such as Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, known for its stunning views and gourmet cuisine. Located just minutes from Traverse City and the scenic Old Mission Peninsula, the resort provides easy access to local wineries, beaches, and the charming downtown area. Whether you're looking for a serene getaway or an action-packed vacation, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa delivers an unforgettable experience.
Tamarack Lodge of Traverse City
Perched along the serene shores of East Grand Traverse Bay, Tamarack Lodge of Traverse City offers an exquisite blend of luxury and comfort, with suites typically ranging from $200 to $500 per night depending on the season and amenities. This charming lodge features spacious, beautifully appointed suites with fully equipped kitchens, cozy fireplaces, and private balconies offering stunning water views. Located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Traverse City, guests have easy access to a variety of attractions, including the vibrant shopping and dining scene, local wineries, and the scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. With its tranquil setting and top-notch amenities, Tamarack Lodge provides an idyllic retreat for couples, families, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of Northern Michigan.
Where to Eat in Traverse City
Rare Bird Brewpub
Located in the bustling heart of Traverse City, Rare Bird Brew Pub promises a unique dining experience that combines locally sourced ingredients with a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere. Guests can indulge in a diverse menu featuring artisanal pizzas, gourmet burgers, and creative small plates, all expertly paired with their house-brewed craft beers. My personal favorite menu item is the fried chicken banh mi, a twist on a Vietnamese classic. The drink menu features a variety of Rare Bird’s own unique brews, as well as a full bar menu and a variety of craft cocktails on tap. We tried the nitro cold brew espresso martini and the Rare Bird Watermelon Bliss, both were fantastic. Whether you're enjoying the lively indoor setting or the cozy outdoor patio, Rare Bird Brew Pub promises a memorable culinary adventure that captures the essence of Michigan's bustling food scene.
The Filling Station Microbrewery
Housed in a charming, historic railway depot, The Filling Station Microbrewery in Traverse City delivers a delightful combination of craft beer and artisanal pizzas. This cozy brewpub offers a variety of unique, wood-fired pizzas such as the "Train Wreck" with spicy sausage, pepperoni, and jalapeños, and the "Gandy Dancer" featuring smoked bacon and roasted garlic. Complement your meal with one of their handcrafted beers, like the popular "Walla Walla Bing Bang" IPA or the smooth "Track 36" Amber Ale. The Filling Station's relaxed atmosphere and picturesque setting along the Boardman Lake make it a perfect spot for both beer enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Trattoria Stella
Situated in the historic Village at Grand Traverse Commons, Trattoria Stella is a gem in Traverse City's culinary landscape, offering an intimate dining experience with a focus on authentic Italian cuisine. Diners can savor a menu that features handmade pasta dishes like pappardelle with braised rabbit and rich, flavorful risottos. The menu also highlights seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients in dishes such as the roasted beet salad with goat cheese and the perfectly seared scallops. With its extensive wine list and charming, rustic ambiance, Trattoria Stella provides an unforgettable taste of Italy in Northern Michigan.
Perfect 3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Beaches & Sunset Cruise
If you are itching to get in the water as quickly as possible, make your way to the Traverse City State Park Beach. The beach is generally clean and the sand is soft, making it the perfect place to lay out and enjoy the sun right in the heart of Traverse City. You will need a Michigan State Parks Pass to enter, or purchase a day pass upon arrival.
One of my favorite beaches just a short drive away from Traverse City is Esch Beach. Known for its pristine sandy shores and clear turquoise waters, Esch Beach is a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a quieter and more secluded beach experience. The beach is nestled between rolling dunes and lush forests, creating a picturesque backdrop for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. Visitors can explore hiking trails that wind through the dunes and along the shoreline, providing opportunities for scenic walks and wildlife viewing. Esch Road Beach is a perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Northern Michigan's coastline.
For a more immersive experience into Traverse City and the Bay, book this Grand Traverse Bay sightseeing cruise. Embark on a memorable sightseeing cruise of Grand Traverse Bay, where the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan meet the picturesque shores of Traverse City. Aboard the cruise, you'll glide along the bay's crystal-clear waters, soaking in panoramic views of the city skyline, lush forests, and rolling hills that surround this idyllic region. Relax on deck as knowledgeable guides share fascinating insights into the area's history, including tales of early settlers and the maritime heritage that shaped Traverse City. The Grand Traverse Bay sightseeing cruise offers a serene and unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty and charm of Northern Michigan.
Cap off the evening with a sunset sailing with food, wine, and cocktails, the perfect way to explore the Bay and enjoy the tranquil waters of the Great Lakes. Watching the sunset over Lake Michigan is an absolute must, especially for first time visitors. I try to make it up north for at least once per year, and they never disappoint.
Day 2: Wineries & Ghost Tour
You can’t go to Traverse City without experiencing the underrated wine region that it is. With nearly 50 wineries in the area, you will spend today exploring as many of them as your heart desires. There are two main wine trails that are popular with visitors and locals alike: Old Mission Peninsula and the Leelanau Peninsula. Both are renowned for their wine and offer distinct experiences, but it is best to focus on only one of them for the sake of time. Old Mission Peninsula is closer in proximity to Traverse City, making it easier for a quick wine tour. The region also holds historical significance as one of the oldest wine regions in Michigan. You will find boutique wineries specializing in cool-climate wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. On your way, you will also enjoy a picturesque drive with views of Grand Traverse Bay on either side. The most popular wineries you will find on this side of the Bay include Chateau Chantal (easily my favorite!), Brys Estate, 2 Lads Winery, and Bowers Harbor Vineyard.
Leelanau Peninsula is known for its stunning vineyards overlooking Lake Michigan. You will find a diverse range of wineries specializing in cool-climate wines like Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. The atmosphere has a relaxed and rustic ambiance, often with stunning views of the peninsula's rolling hills and lakeside vistas. The most popular wineries on this tour are Mari Vineyards, Black Star Farms, Bonobo Winery, Chateau Fontaine.
Ultimately, both regions offer excellent wine-tasting opportunities, so the choice may depend on your schedule, preferences, and the specific wineries you wish to visit. Check out this Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour to see four historic and scenic wineries in five hours, or this Leelanau Peninsula Winery Tour, depending on which you think will fit your preferences better!
Not a big wine drinker? The area is also known for an impressive selection of craft breweries, each with its own unique offerings. One of my all time favorites is Right Brain Brewery. Their tap room is complete with dozens of vintage pinball machines available to play, and they have a variety of interesting beers to try. We have been there on numerous occasions and always end up splitting a flight (or a few), so we can try everything that sounds interesting. Over the years, some of our favorites have been the Thai Peanut, which quite literally tastes like pad thai in a glass. I am not usually a fan of brown ales, but I thoroughly enjoyed this take on one of my favorite dishes.
Another favorite choice is Hop Lot Brewing and Beer Garden. This brewery is a little bit further outside of Traverse City in Suttons Bay, but will be on your route if you are exploring the Leelanau Peninsula. The tap list is certainly more traditional than Right Brain, with several of their flagship beers being more classic and still expertly crafted. The menu also features a variety of appetizers that are very good. We love the roasted street corn queso and the smoked whitefish dip (a Traverse City staple!).
After exploring all the breweries and wineries your heart desires, you will be ready for another fun and spooky adventure on this Ghost lantern tour of downtown Traverse City. If you’ve been following along with PTO and a Passport for long, then you know I LOVE a good spooky ghost tour! Whether or not you believe in the paranormal, it’s a great way to explore the city and learn its history in an entertaining way.
As night falls, join a guided walk through the city's historic streets, visiting haunted landmarks and hearing chilling tales of restless spirits and mysterious occurrences. Discover the dark secrets of the Perry Hannah House, Traverse City's own haunted mansion, and explore the shadowy corners of the old State Hospital grounds, known for its haunted past. With knowledgeable guides bringing the haunted history to life, this ghost tour offers a unique and thrilling way to see Traverse City, perfect for those seeking an unforgettable and chilling adventure.
Day 3: Hiking & Sand Dunes
For your final day in Traverse City, you will be heading over to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Whenever I tell people about these dunes in Michigan, they don’t believe it is part of the landscape. But I assure you, they are very real and very worth the trip. The drive from central Traverse City is about 45 minutes (28 miles). You will park at the Philip A Hart Visitor Center in Empire, Michigan. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore does charge an entrance fee per vehicle of $25, and is valid for 7 days from purchase.
Once you have entered the park, your first task will be tackling the iconic Dune Climb. The climb is 150 feet above the shore and is no joke.The climb is steep, but the views from the top are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Glen Lake and the surrounding landscape. The highest dunes in the area reach over 450 feet above the lake and can only be reached by dune buggy.
From the top, you can enjoy a picnic lunch while enjoying the views, or decide to explore the town of Glen Haven, a historic village within the park. Explore the restored buildings, including a blacksmith shop and the Maritime Museum, which offers insights into the area’s maritime history. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the dunes and cooling off in Lake Michigan nearby, but if you are short on time, head back to Traverse City after lunch to begin your journey back home.
If you have some extra time, there is excellent hiking in the area that will be equal parts challenging and rewarding. The most popular is the Empire Bluff Trail, a 1.5-mile loop offering stunning views of Lake Michigan from the top of a bluff. It's a relatively short hike with a rewarding overlook, making it ideal for families and hikers of all skill levels. For more experienced hikers, look into the Dunes Trail. It begins at the famous Dune Climb and continues 3.5 miles over towering sand dunes to the shores of Lake Michigan. The constantly shifting sand can make this hike physically demanding, but the experience of reaching the lake is incredibly rewarding.
If you don’t have a car and are looking for a guided experience to the dunes, check out this Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore tour. On this trip, you will enjoy roundtrip transfer from your accommodation in Traverse City as well as experience all of the highlights: Empire Bluffs, Scenic Pierce Stocking Drive, Glen Lake Overlook, and Sleeping Bear Scenic Dune Overlook. Both lunch and snacks are provided, along with a professional guide to help you understand the history of the area in an informational and entertaining way.
Have some extra time in Traverse City and want to add another incredible experience to your itinerary? Try a Luxury pontoon charter on Grand Traverse Bay that includes your very own captain chauffeur to make sure you have the best afternoon. You can bring along a group of up to six, and children are invited. Bring your own food, drinks, towels, and water toys as you experience Grand Traverse Bay and swim in the waters surrounding Power Island, weather permitting. It’s the perfect way to get out on the water and experience one of the Great Lakes!
I hope you can see why this destination in northern Michigan means so much to me personally and so many others around the state. I hope you fall in love with it the way I have as Traverse City emerges as the perfect destination for a weekend getaway, offering a harmonious blend of natural splendor, outdoor pursuits, and cultural allure. Begin your adventure by basking in the breathtaking vistas of Lake Michigan from the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, where sandy beaches beckon for leisurely strolls and serene moments. Dive into the region's rich viticultural heritage with a wine tour along the scenic Leelanau Peninsula, where vineyards unfold against a backdrop of rolling hills and azure waters. For a touch of intrigue, delve into Traverse City's haunted past on a captivating ghost tour, exploring eerie tales amidst historic landmarks like the Perry Hannah House and the Old State Hospital grounds. Whether savoring farm-to-table delights at local eateries, browsing through eclectic boutiques in downtown Traverse City, or attending vibrant cultural events, every moment in Traverse City promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience. Plan your escape to Traverse City and unlock the treasures of this enchanting destination nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan.