Bahle Farms Golf Course is set among the rolling hills and cherry orchards of the Leelanau Peninsula, offering an 18-hole course with interesting elevation changes and wide-open views. It’s a relaxed but engaging course that makes the most of the surrounding landscape, whether you’re out for a casual round or a more competitive game. You may even spot Devin catching nine holes here, or at one of the other nearby courses, during the wedding weekend.
Bubbie’s Bagels has become a favorite among both Traverse City locals and visitors for its fresh bagels and breakfast sandwiches. Expect a line out the door on busy mornings, but we hear it’s worth the wait!
Cherry Public House at Cherry Republic is a fun, quintessential Northern Michigan spot with a restaurant, charming beer garden, wine and cider tastings, ice cream, and a gift shop filled with hundreds of Michigan cherry products. It’s one of our favorite places to stop when we’re up north, and it’s especially meaningful to us—we’ve visited while camping with Goose, and later brought Grizzly there as a puppy.
Empire Beach was recently named one of the top 21 most beautiful beaches in the world by National Geographic. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly stretch of soft sand with clear blue water, a playground nearby, and some of the best sunset views in the area. It’s located just down the road from Sleeping Bear Dunes, making it an easy stop if you’re exploring the area.
Hop Lot Brewing Company is a woodsy, family friendly brewery recently named USA Today’s #2 best beer garden in the country for 2026. Tucked among the trees, it’s a great spot to enjoy a refreshing beer or cocktail with lunch while relaxing around campfires, picnic tables, and outdoor games in the beer garden.
The Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail is home to 20+ award-winning wineries, including Aurora Cellars. Located at the same latitude as Bordeaux, France, and Piedmont, Italy, the region benefits from a unique climate that makes it especially well-suited for Riesling and Cabernet Franc. Spend an afternoon at a winery along the trail or join a tasting tour to sip wines with views of the rolling vineyards. Click the link for a map of the wine trail.
Moomers Handmade Ice Cream is a Traverse City favorite located on a family-owned dairy farm just outside of town. They make their ice cream from milk produced by their own cows, which you can often see grazing nearby. This is a must-see, especially for Whitney, who never says no to a sweet treat. Grab a scoop and relax with a view overlooking the pasture.
The Sleeping Bear Dunes are just one example of Michigan’s breathtaking landscape. With views of Lake Michigan stretching to the horizon, the miles of rolling sandy bluffs are best appreciated in person. Stop by for a scenic hike 450 feet above the water, walk along the shoreline, or just take in the view. If you’re feeling daring, run down the big dune… just make sure you think about the climb back up first!