If you are here early & have time to drive over to Sleeping Bear dunes it is so worth it! We recommend driving the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive & jumping out at the Lake Michigan Overlook, you can't beat this view. There are also good hiking trails here.
There are beaches everywhere in Traverse City but this is our favorite because there is so much to do! Clinch Park is right next to the marina & we have seen people fishing here. At the beach there is a concession stand, park & bathrooms. There is also Paddle TC where you can rent kayaks, bikes & paddle boards. Parking is across the street & then there is an underground tunnel to get to the beach from the parking lot.
Did you even go to TC if you didn't go to a winery? There are wineries all over Traverse City that are amazing but our favorites are these ones which are up the mission point peninsula. Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn, Bonobo Winery & Mari Vineyards. You can sit on the patio, sip & take in the beautiful views of Lake Michigan. Sarah's favorite wine is from Chateau Chantal.
You can't go wrong with any of the breweries in Traverse but this place is a blast. The drive up the peninsula is beautiful. When you get there it is outdoors with cornhole, bonfires & live music.
Little Fleet- is right downtown & has such a fun atmosphere with live music & food trucks. Bubba's- has really good burgers & is right downtown. Jolly Pumpkin- is on the peninsula so it has good views & good food. West End Tavern- is on the water overlooking the marina Red Mesa Grill- our favorite Mexican place in town The Burrow TC- great food
Bubbie's Bagels The Omelette Shop Peace, Love & Little Donuts
Our favorite place to get dessert!
Traverse City is known for their Cherry Festival & this shop has all of the cherry things you can imagine!