Often considered the "Cherry Capital of the World," Traverse City is not only famous for its annual National Cherry Festival but also for its vineyards and culinary scene. Its proximity to both Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay makes it a prime location for water activities.
Traverse City is located in Northern Michigan on the two arms of Grand Traverse Bay. It is the county seat for Grand Traverse County and is the largest settlement in Northern Michigan, with a population of nearly 16,000 itself and more than 150,000 inhabitants in the neighbouring Traverse City region.
Marina at Traverse City in northern Michigan
The east and west arms of Grand Traverse Bay are separated by the Old Mission peninsula which runs into Traverse City at its base. The Old Mission peninsula is known for its cherry orchards and vineyards.
Traverse City has its own airport known as Cherry Capital Airport, which is located only five miles from downtown Traverse City. The airport offers connecting flights to Chicago and Detroit.
Those looking to drive from a major international airport will find that Detroit Metro Airport (262 miles) is the closest option.
The US-31 highway connects Traverse City with Petoskey and Mackinaw City to the north and continues and continues west and then south along the shore of Lake Michigan towards Holland.
Michigan state highway M-22 runs around the Leelanau peninsula to the west while Michigan state highway M-37 crosses Traverse City on its way from the Old Mission peninsula down to Grand Rapids.
State highway M-72 traverses the city on its way from Empire in the west to the town of Harrisville on the Lake Huron shoreline.
There are regular daily bus services to Detroit, Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo which stop at Traverse City. The services start at St Ignace on Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
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The Traverse City area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Anishinaabek. The name of Grand Traverse Bay actually stems from French fur traders and explorers who made the 'grande traverse' (the 'big crossing') of the bay.
The modern history of Traverse City began in the mid-19th century. The city's development is closely tied to figures such as Perry Hannah, known as the "father of Traverse City", and Captain Boardman, who purchased land in the area in 1847.
Over time, Traverse City became known for its lumber industry, which was a significant part of its economic growth. The city also has a rich maritime history, with lighthouses and mission churches as reminders of its past.
Traverse City official video
Tourism is now a major contributor to the local economy.
The natural beauty of the Lake Michigan shoreline and nearby nature reserves combine with popular seasonal events - like the Cherry Festival and the Wine and Cider Festival - to attract around seven million visitors to the region each year.
The Traverse City Visitor Center is located on West Grandview Parkway near the marina and city beaches. It is open all week with slightly restricted hours on Sundays.
Historic storefronts from the 19th century are a feature of Downtown Traverse City, with its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars and specialist shops.
View of the Traverse City shoreline | © Traverse City Tourism
Walking tours of the Front Street area are available as well as an unusual combination of kayak and bike tour where participants paddle and pedal to sample some of the local craft beers.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a redevelopment of a historic Traverse City landmark. Originally established in the late 19th century, the main buildings used to be part of the Traverse City State Hospital (a psychiatric institution).
It has now been turned into a a social center including shops, restaurants, office space, and housing.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
Mission Point Lighthouse is a historic landmark located at the tip of the Old Mission Peninsula to the north of Traverse City.
It was built in 1870 to aid sailors navigating the treacherous waters around the point in Grand Traverse Bay and served until 1933 when it was replaced by a buoy.
Mission Point Lighthouse
The current lighthouse is run by volunteers and is open in the summer months from Thursday to Monday. It is located in Lighthouse Park, which offers marked walks in the summer and cross-country ski trails in the winter.
North Michigan is famous for its vineyards and the quality of the wine they produce.
Visitors to North Michigan can sample some of them on two different wine trails on the peninsulas to the north of Traverse City.
Vineyard on Old Mission Peninsula
The Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail covers ten different wineries which run the length of the peninsula from Traverse City up towards Mission Point Lighthouse.
The Leelanau Peninsula is located further to the west and the wine trail here covers 20 different wineries from Sleeping Bear Dunes through to the West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay.
Traverse City actually has two small downhill ski areas that are within easy reach for visitors. Hickory Hills is located in the Slabtown area in the west of the city, while Mt Holiday is about six miles to the east.
Two larger options are Crystal Mountain Ski Resort to the south-west of the city or Shanty Creek Resort to the north-east of the city. Both are around 35 miles away from Traverse City.
More information about the skiing is available here: Ski Resorts near Traverse City
Cross-country skiing is also popular in the area, with trails available on both peninsulas. Keen cross-country skiers should take a look at the Leelanau Trail.
Petoskey is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture, historic Gaslight Shopping District, and also gives its name to the unique Petoskey Stones found along the Lake Michigan shoreline. It acts as a gateway to the outdoor activities available at Petoskey State Park.
Nestled near the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Glen Arbor provides access to some of Michigan's most breathtaking natural beauty. The area offers miles of sandy beaches, clear waters, and the opportunity to explore the dunes themselves.
Home to the Ludington State Park, which is considered one of Michigan's best state parks. The park's lighthouse, hiking trails, and canoeing opportunities make it a favorite for nature enthusiasts. Ludington is the port for the SS Badger car ferry that connects Michigan with Wisconsin across Lake Michigan.
Saugatuck boasts a charming downtown with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Oval Beach is often rated as one of the best beaches in the United States, and Saugatuck's location along the Art Coast of Michigan provides visitors with a blend of cultural and natural attractions.
Traverse City Tourism : www.traversecity.com
Cherry Capital Airport : tvcairport.com
Mission Point Lighthouse : www.missionpointlighthouse.com
Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail : www.ompwinetrail.com
Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail : https://lpwines.com/