Top reasons to visit Traverse City
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Traverse City boasts breathtaking lakes, lovely beaches, and scenic landscapes, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy skiing at local resorts, hiking, and exploring picturesque parks and waterfronts.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Discover delightful streets filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and local culture.
- Wine and Dine: Indulge in the region's renowned tasting rooms and delicious cuisine, making for a memorable culinary experience.
- Variety of Accommodations: From charming resorts to comfortable hotels, find the perfect stay to suit your needs.
Find great hotels in Traverse City
Traverse City offers a delightful array of lodging options, from charming resorts to comfortable hotels, catering to families and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront getaway or a base for exploring the area's stunning nature, you'll discover a variety of accommodations that suit your needs. Be sure to check out hotel reviews and available rooms to ensure a memorable stay in this picturesque destination.
- Grand Beach Resort Hotel: Nestled along the stunning shoreline of Traverse City, the Grand Beach Resort Hotel is a budget-friendly accommodation boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This hotel is ideal for those seeking a relaxing beach getaway, with direct access to the sandy shores. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including spacious rooms, a heated indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast, making it a great choice for families and business travellers alike who wish to unwind by the water.
- Blossom Hotel & Suites Traverse City: With a strong guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, Blossom Hotel & Suites is perfect for adventure seekers and business travellers looking for a vibrant stay. Located in Traverse City, this property offers a range of exciting recreational activities nearby, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and downhill skiing. The hotel features comfortable accommodations, a fitness centre, and easy access to local attractions, ensuring a fun-filled experience while still providing the essentials for a productive trip.
- The Baywatch Resort: Enjoying a stellar guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, The Baywatch Resort is a charming 3-star hotel that offers direct beach access for sun seekers and water enthusiasts. Situated in Traverse City, this resort provides comfortable and well-appointed rooms alongside a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a relaxing atmosphere. It's an excellent choice for both leisure and business travellers wanting a tranquil retreat with stunning views of the lake.
Where to stay in Traverse City
Traverse City, Michigan, offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventures and romantic getaways, perfect for your holiday. Explore the picturesque waterfront, charming neighbourhoods, and beautiful parks that define this vibrant city. You’ll be captivated by the scenic landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for families and couples alike. Don't miss the chance to experience the local culture and indulge in delicious cuisine during your stay.
- Greilickville: Nestled close to Traverse City, Greilickville is a charming village that draws visitors with its stunning outdoor scenery and romantic atmosphere. The area is particularly popular during the peak months of June to July and October, when nature enthusiasts flock to experience recreational activities in the nearby national state park and ski resorts. The picturesque lakes and towering dunes provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway, making Greilickville a must-visit for those seeking adventure and tranquillity alike.
- Old Mission Peninsula: This scenic peninsula, located just a short drive from Traverse City, offers a delightful blend of outdoor experiences and breathtaking landscapes. The peak visitation period from June to August attracts holidaymakers keen on exploring the area’s golf courses and lush recreational spaces. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the lake and nearby national state parks, as well as access to beautiful beaches perfect for a summer day out. Old Mission Peninsula is ideal for those looking for a romantic escape amidst nature’s splendour.
- Old Mission: A quaint village situated in the Traverse City area, Old Mission is a hidden gem that shines during the summer months from June to August. Known for its captivating scenery, the village attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures and romantic retreats. With golf courses and recreational areas in close proximity, there's plenty to keep you entertained. The local highlights, including pristine lakes and national state parks, make Old Mission a serene spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in nature's beauty.
Things to do in Traverse City
Shopping
Traverse City offers a charming downtown area with unique shops and local boutiques for gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Grand Traverse Mall, about 16.1km away, featuring a range of stores and dining options for a more extensive shopping experience.
Recreation
Experience tranquility at the Spa Grand Traverse, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and relax in a serene environment. For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers scenic hiking trails and stunning overlooks of Lake Michigan’s pristine waters.
Adventure
In Traverse City, explore the stunning landscapes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can hike or sandboard down towering dunes. For water adventures, paddleboard or kayak on the crystal-clear waters of Grand Traverse Bay, enjoying breathtaking views of the shoreline and surrounding nature.
Nightlife
In Traverse City, the eclectic vibe of The Little Fleet food truck hub offers a casual atmosphere with local brews and live music. For a lively bar scene, head to Blue Tractor, known for its craft cocktails and BBQ, while the City Opera House hosts engaging performances.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Traverse City
To save money on your trip to Traverse City, visit during the off-peak months of March and December to January when hotel prices are lower. Enjoy free activities such as exploring Front Street, Traverse City State Park, and Clinch Park Beach. For transport, consider walking or biking as affordable options. Book your accommodation on a Tuesday for the best rates and use Expedia to find special deals by filtering prices from lowest to highest. You can also save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Traverse City is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Traverse City are March and December to January, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Traverse City is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Traverse City is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To find the most affordable options and special offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Traverse City hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Traverse City
Traverse City is perfect for outdoor and romantic getaways, boasting stunning lakes, lovely beaches, and charming streets. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views and explore nearby attractions while indulging in the area's natural beauty. With a range of resorts available, Traverse City caters to those seeking scenic experiences and memorable adventures in this picturesque part of Michigan.
- Traverse City State Park: Nestled in the heart of Traverse City, this state park offers stunning outdoor scenery and plenty of adventure opportunities. With trails for hiking and biking, as well as access to the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan, it's an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the area's natural beauty.
- Clinch Park: This urban park is perfect for families, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lovely beach along the waterfront. Its vibrant atmosphere and green spaces provide a relaxing escape in the city, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely day outdoors.
- Front Street: A bustling hub in Traverse City, Front Street is lined with charming shops, cafés, and restaurants. Strolling along this lively street allows visitors to soak in the local culture and enjoy the vibrant city vibe, making it a great place to experience the community.
Best time to go to Traverse City
The best time to visit Traverse City can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Traverse City falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Traverse City falls in February, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is very cloudy with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Traverse City
Flying into Traverse City is convenient with Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), located 4.8km from the city centre. Notable nearby accommodations include the Great Wolf Lodge and Hotel Indigo, both offering 3.5-star ratings and easy access to the airport. For those considering Pellston Regional Airport (PLN), situated 111.0km away, the Pellston Lodge is a comfortable option just 322m from the airport. Escanaba’s Delta County Airport (ESC), 156.1km from Traverse City, has the Magnuson Grand Pioneer Inn and Suites, 3.2km from the airport, providing a 24-hour shuttle service. Whether you're visiting for leisure or adventure, Traverse City has excellent options for your stay.