Traverse City located in northern Michigan is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the USA. From high-quality food and wineries to fine scenery, it’s a worthy destination to check out in the Midwest.
**I visited Traverse City during the on-going Covid pandemic, restrictions might be in place so please plan accordingly**
Sleeping Bear Dunes
The Sleeping Bear Dunes are located in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, 28mi west of Traverse City. The park is known for its dunes of the Dune Climb. For those who have extra time and energy, take the hike through the dunes all the way to Lake Michigan. This may take as long as 3-4 hours, so load up on plenty of water and stay hydrated. The easiest way to get to the end of the dunes is by driving and taking the scenic route. The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is a 7.4 mile drive that loops through the dunes with spectacular views of the Glen Lakes, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Lake Michigan. I did not take this route when I visited as it was closed due to road repairs. Photo slideshow below:
Mission Point Lighthouse
Mission Point Lighthouse is a lighthouse located at the end of Old Mission, a peninsula 17 miles north of Traverse City. The lighthouse stands a few hundred yards south of the 45th parallel north, halfway between the North Pole and the Equator. There’s also a small beach where you can lay down and relax and enjoy the waters of Lake Michigan.
Photo slideshow and videos below:
Wine Tours
Traverse City is known for its numerous wineries and vineyards located on the Old Mission peninsula. A highly rated place to check out is Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, an 111-acre estate. Its 50-acre vineyard produces wines that include Pinot Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The upper deck which is six feet high provides guests with spectacular views of the vineyard and Lake Michigan. Make sure to get a flight of wine and the charcuterie board while enjoying the views.
Brys Estate is also home to the Secret Garden, a 12-acre garden surrounded with lavender and other plants. Make sure to stop by the gift shop where handmade lavender products are available for purchase. Photo slideshow and video below:
Restaurants/Breweries
-Coin Slot - 346 E Front St
A great place to check out if you’re into old school arcade games, pinball, and pool - interesting artwork on the walls as well. It has a wide selection of beers, ciders, seltzers, and wine. It features a spacious patio where you can hang out and play bags.
Photo slideshow below:
-Rare Bird BrewPub - 229 Lake Ave
One of the many breweries in Traverse City with great food and there's something for everyone with their diverse selection of craft beers and craft cocktails. Their IPA(Kushy Punch) was voted the best IPA in TC which I ended up taking a few growlers back home. The Blackened Mahi tacos are out of this world, one of the best tacos I’ve had in awhile. I ended up getting an additional order since they were so delicious. For starters, make sure to get the pretzel sticks which comes with white cheddar cheese sauce and mustard.
Photos below and video below:
-The Parlor TC - 205 Lake Ave
Based in a historic train weigh station, The Parlor is an old-fashioned craft cocktail bar that offers a prohibition era experience. We sat outside due to covid rules and guidelines in place. Their pizzas are a must, try the Bob Marley pizza. Photos below:
-Green House Cafe - 115 E Front St
Located in the heart of Traverse City’s downtown district, the Green House Cafe is a stylish diner offering classic breakfast and lunch. You have a choice of sitting inside or outside depending on available seating. If you are looking for an inexpensive breakfast place, this is the place to go. Photo and video below:
-Boathouse Restaurant - 14039 Peninsula Dr.
The Boathouse takes full advantage of its delightful view of the docks and bay with wide-open windows and a summer deck. It’s considered an upscale restaurant with mostly seafood on its menu. For starters, try the Spanish octopus, cooked to perfection. One of the entrees I tried was the Lake Superior whitefish, served with lemon caper sauce over basmati rice and green beans, prepared at its finest. For dessert, I had the brownie topped with its local cherry ice cream. Overall, it was one of the best dining experiences we had in TC.
Photos and videos below:
-Cherry Republic -154 E Front St.
Since Traverse City is the cherry capital of the world, you must check out Cherry Republic. A wide range of cherry products are available for purchase which includes chocolate covered cherries, ice cream, soda, jam, salsa, beer, and wine. Perfect place for a cherry lover.