Traverse City is located on the blue bay waters that flow into Lake Michigan, in the Northern region of the great state of Pure Michigan. Known for its freshwater views, homegrown wineries and downtown dining and shopping, Traverse City has something to offer for everyone. This summer I had the privilege of living and working in Traverse City, though it has felt like home to me for much longer than that. I met some great people, watched some amazing sunsets and swam in a pretty cold bay. I ate, drank and lived like a local for three months, and listed below are my top recommendations for your next visit to TC!
Grand Traverse Resort and Spa — This resort has everything for the average vacationer: golf, tennis, shopping, bars and restaurants, beachfront property and even a waterslide. There are not one, not two, but three championship golf courses on property all varying in level of difficulty, which is perfect for the professional mini golfer that I am. The spa offers massages, facial treatments, saunas and more, aka everything required for a relaxing vacation. Onsite fine dining at Aerie provides 360 views of Grand Traverse Bay and award winning locally-grown cuisine. The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is the ultimate package any time, any day, any season!
Chateau Chantal — Nestled on Old Mission Peninsula overlooking the Bay and countless orchards, Chateau Chantal has some of the best wine selections in town. The tasting room offers everything from hard cider to port, and nearly everything on the menu looks great. The deck has live music, cornhole, photo opportunities and more on any given day. Chateau Chantal offers a wine for every occasion and a coupon with every tasting! The wine tours in this town cannot be beat.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons — Formerly the Traverse City State Hospital, this site has been transformed into a bustling community of artisan shops, nature trails and unique dining experiences. The Commons’ original structure has been restored and reopened, and walking through the original architecture feels historic and spooky at the same time. Grab a scone from the bakery, read a vintage leather-bound book and find the perfect handcrafted souvenir to commemorate your Traverse City trip. Not your style? Try a twilight walking tour of the grounds and investigate the underground asylum tunnels, if you dare.
North Peak Brewing Company — Get ready for the best Cheddar Ale Soup you will ever have in your entire life. North Peak Brewing Company is an awesome stop for great food, awesome drinks and good conversation. The brewery has live entertainment and a wide selection of in-house brews, not to mention a great selection of pizza, sandwiches and burgers. Wood interior, high windows and multiple floors give it a really unique, laid-back feel. It makes for the perfect after-work meeting point.
Traverse City is unique for its location and surrounding areas, but the city itself has so much to offer. Drinks, dining, shopping, relaxing, fun and more are guaranteed when you visit TC. Michigan’s official state motto is “If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you,” so keep that in mind when you are booking your next vacay!
