Things To Do
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the park’s rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history. This wondrous lakeshore is managed by the National Park Service and is highly recommended for nature lovers and adventurers!
Grand Traverse Lighthouse
As one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes, the Grand Traverse Lighthouse is located at the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula and has guided ships into the Manitou Passage of Lake Michigan for over 150 years. The lighthouse is located nine miles north of Northport in the Leelanau State Park. It has extensive exhibits, a gift shop, and for those willing to climb the tower it provides an extraordinary vantage point of open water as far as the eye can see.
Mission Point Lighthouse
Mission Point Lighthouse stands as a classic piece of Michigan history. While it no longer guides mariners through West Grand Traverse Bay as it did from 1870 until it was decommissioned in 1933, Mission Point Lighthouse now offers visitors a peek into what life was like around the turn of the century for lighthouse keepers and for others who lived and worked in the area at the time. While Grand Traverse Lighthouse is often deemed more impressive, Mission Point is closer to downtown TC.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
An old village featuring a variety of shopping and dining experiences! The former Traverse City State Hospital is immersed in over 100 years of history. The evolution from a state-run asylum to a thriving and bustling community is the foundation of what makes The Village what it is today.
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club
To put it simply, Arcadia Bluffs is renowned — rated the 83rd best golf club in the country by Golf Digest. The club has two courses, each catering to a different style. The Bluffs Course is designed after traditional seaside links golfing and provide the traditional Scottish experience. The South Course caters to an almost forgotten style of golf from an older era. Each course is in top shape and sure to present a fun but challenging time. Anyone who can consistently break 100 will feel at home. This course is for dedicated golfers willing to make the hour trek from Traverse City for a truly unique experience.
The Bear Golf Course
Jack Nicklaus' signature design features Scottish terraced fairways, tiered greens, deep grassy roughs, moguls and mounds, and deep pot bunkers. With rolling land, trees, lakes, streams, fruit orchards, and a variety of wildlife, The Bear features a mixture of different elements golfers rarely see on one course. This is northern Michigan golf at its finest.
The Crown Golf Club
The Crown is one of the closest courses you will find when staying in Traverse City. Just outside of walking distance, it’s a well-rounded course that offers a mix of challenges at a reasonable price. This is one of the most modern courses you will find in the area. Be sure to watch out for that last hole.
Trattoria Stella
A family favorite for all things Italian cuisine and seafood, conveniently located in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons! Alec enjoys the Chef's specials which often include local, freshwater fish pulled directly from the Great Lakes.
Martha's Leelanau Table
A cozy farm-to-table style restaurant! Just a short ride up the coast of the Leelanau peninsula, this stop is probably worth it just to experience the blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay along the way.
The Parlor TC
Excellent craft cocktails and American small plates! Walking distance for those staying downtown Traverse City.
Suttons Bay Ciders
One of the first places Alec took Sarah in Michigan, Suttons Bay Cider features an overlook with unmatched views of Grand Traverse Bay! It’s simply a special place. They consistently serve flights of delicious ciders. Food is BYOB. They usually have a mascot dog roaming the place, offering good boy energy to those in need.
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
Great tastings and pairings on one of the most peaceful landscapes you’ll find!
Shady Lane Cellars
Shady Lane Cellars is quaint and unique as it was built into an old chicken coop!
Rove Winery at the Gallagher Estate
Wonderful wine with picturesque views of ag-covered rolling hills!
MAWBY Sparkling Wines
Beautiful outdoor patio and fantastic sparkling wines!
45 North Vineyard & Winery
Simply a true classic. Chill fall vibes are sold here.
Hop Lot Brewing Co. & Beer Garden
Awesome beer garden in the middle of the woods!
Mammoth Distilling Cocktail Lounge
Well worth the stop, especially for whiskey and cocktail lovers!
The Little Fleet
A fun collection of food trucks also offering local beverages! It's one of the most diverse options in wthe downtown area.
Left Foot Charley
Perfect for those that enjoy ciders! Convenient if you find yourself in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons.