There's so much to do in Traverse City and the Grand Traverse Area!

Things to Do

A trip to the Traverse City area means you will never be bored! No matter the season, there’s always a multitude of activities and attractions to satisfy everybody. Northern Michigan has such natural beauty which translates into healthy and fun outdoor activities.

Festivals
One of the biggest events in the state is the National Cherry Festival. For eight days in early July, enjoy music performances, parades, games, arts & crafts fair, great food, and an air show that features the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Day and night, the fun never ends! Then in late July and early August, the Traverse City Film Festival takes place where all types of films are shown—documentaries, classics, and new releases. Different venues are used, from the State Theater in downtown Traverse City, to the City Opera House and the Old Town Playhouse. You can even watch nightly movies free of charge at Open Space Park, located along Grand Traverse Bay. Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival is held for three weeks every summer with over 1,000 riders and horses from all over the country competing for the top prize. Other popular festivals include Empire Anchor Days, the National Trout Festival, Michigan Schooner Festival, and the Sleeping Bear Dunegrass and Blues Festival.

Nearby Attractions
The Beach Bums Professional Baseball Team calls Traverse City home, and catching a game on a balmy summer’s evening is the perfect way to relax and spend time with family and friends. If you enjoy a good game of golf, this is where you want to be. Golf Magazine rated the Traverse City area as one of the top six golf destinations in the country. Beautifully manicured courses designed by golf greats like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer await you—many with spectacular views of Grand Traverse Bay. A trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a must-see. Voted the most beautiful place in America by viewers of Good Morning America, this natural wonder features scenic views of Lake Michigan from high atop sand dunes. Climb the dunes, or visit one of the decks that overlook this magnificent region. If you’re interested in the arts, Traverse City has that too! The Dennos Museum has exhibitions, performances and concerts throughout the year. Art galleries are scattered all across the city, each one offering the visitor something new and unique. Interlochen Center for the Arts is located just 13 miles south of Traverse City and is well known for its many concerts. Here students come to learn skills in dancing, music, art, acting, and writing. The Old Town Playhouse and City Opera House are venues for top-notch performances from local actors and musicians.

With its location right on the water, Traverse City is home to some of the best fishing, boating, and swimming you’ll find anywhere. Miles and miles of bike trails is one way to truly enjoy the beauty of the region—and don’t let the cold winter months stop you from visiting the Traverse City area. There’s just as much going on here in the winter as in the summer. Nearby ski resorts offer downhill skiing and snowboarding (as well as crackling fireplaces to keep you toasty warm!) You can also hit the trails on your cross country skis, get some exercise on a pair of snowshoes, or rent a snowmobile for an exhilarating ride through the pines. The fresh, cold air is just what the doctor ordered to alleviate cabin fever.

Shopping and Dining
Downtown Traverse City and Front Street is a very busy place with its unique shops, galleries and restaurants. You’ll find items that are unique to this region, as well as national brands. Grand Traverse Commons, just to the west of town, is a sprawling 19th century Victorian building that is being turned into an elegant shopping area. “Where to eat?” is on everyone’s mind, and you won’t have to look far in Traverse City. All types of cuisine for every palate are offered. Many top food magazines have rated Traverse City one of the top food towns. The food just tastes better here—thanks to the fresh ingredients from nearby farms and waters. And don’t forget to complement your meal with a bottle of local wine. The wines from the many vineyards in the Traverse City area are gaining national attention for their clean, crisp flavor. Wine tours are available and make for a wonderful outing.