If you have been looking for the perfect way to cool off this summer season, look no further than visiting Traverse City. There is no place better that offers amazing fun by the lake along with lively activities and attractions in the area. Traverse City is also known to have some stunning events that will elevate your stay like no other. Take a look below at some of the top June 2024 events in Traverse City, MI.
When it comes to the biggest event of the year in Traverse City, there is no contest, it is always the National Cherry Festival! Cherries are one of Traverse City’s biggest natural products grown in the area and they have a huge impact on the local economy. When you visit in June, you will be able to catch the few first days of the National Cherry Festival. This annual event kicks off on Friday June 28th before running for over a week altogether. When you think of events, you typically think of one type of activity you will enjoy. The National Cherry Festival holds nothing back as it features a combination of live music, lively events, workshops, parades, and plenty more cherry related activities.
You will not want to miss out on the opening ceremony taking place on Friday June 28th where the U.S. Coast Guard Open Ramp kicks everything off. The fun really begins to take shape as the event rolls into Saturday June 29th when the main festivities take place. The Bayside Beach Volleyball Tournament is always a favorite to participate in as men’s and women’s two person teams attempt to win it all. The Very Cherry Flying Pancake Breakfast will fuel you up for the day with delicious cherry flavored pancakes and all the sides. Try out a Zumba class with Zumba by the Bay. The amusement park area of the festival will also open up so you can enjoy incredible rides on the Ferris Wheel and other midway style rides. You can’t forget to grab a slice of the Grand Traverse Cherry Pie that is always perfect when served a la mode. The Navy’s Blue Angels will have their fan-favorite aerial demonstration take place high up in the sky.
One of the most popular events at the National Cherry Festival is the live music lineup that always includes some of the biggest artists in the business. The Stone Temple Pilots will be on hand June 29th for a stunning show including all of their hits. There is so much to experience with the National Cherry Festival so don’t miss out this June!
Another great event that can be found during the month of June this summer is the Old Town Arts and Crafts Fair. This annual event has over 100 different artists from the area set up to display their wonderful works of art. This event has been running for several years now and is considered the biggest arts and crafts event in the city. The Old Town Arts and Crafts Fair sets up along Union Street under giant tents and canopies. The event is set up similar to a farmer’s market so you can easily find something you are looking for. You will find plenty of unique arts and crafts that will make for a perfect gift for someone back home. The Old Town Arts and Crafts Fair is scheduled to take place on Saturday June 15th starting at 10:00 AM and closing up at 5:00 PM.
One of the best ways to feel like a local when visiting somewhere new is a visit to the local farmer’s market. You can find the Sara Hardy Downtown Farmer’s Market right here in Traverse City this summer. This farmer’s market will be open for all of June on Wednesday and Saturday each week. The market can be found at the southwest corner of Cass St. and Grandview Parkway over at Downtown Traverse City. A variety of local farmers will be on hand selling their naturally grown produce and local goods. Local vendors will also be on hand selling a variety of goods including honey, soap, art work, jewelry, apparel, and more. The market will move over to Old Town Parking Deck while the National Cherry Festival is going on. The Sara Hardy Downtown Farmer’s Market is open 7:30 AM to noon on Saturdays and 8:00 AM to noon on Wednesdays during the month of June.
There is all kinds of fun taking shape here in Traverse City this summer season. Contact us for the best stay possible by reserving one of our vacation rentals in the area. Take a look at the fun you will have with these events!
There are a variety of reasons of why you will want to visit Traverse City. Our Michigan home is a beautiful community full of exciting activities and attractions with something for everyone. One of the best parts of visiting Traverse City is the city being located right on the Grand Traverse Bay. A gorgeous lake awaits you to explore from top to bottom. What many do not realize is just how big Lake Michigan is—it is one of the Great Lakes, after all! The size of the lake allows it to be an ideal spot for sailing. You can hit the “open” waters for a sailing adventure that will take you from wave to wave. Of course, if this is your first time in the area, you will want to take a look at our guide to sailing in Traverse City, MI below.
The best way to get ready for your first time at sailing is by enjoying a sailing course. For some of the best sailing instruction in Traverse City head over to Great Lakes Sailing Company. They have been named an ASA Award Winning Sailing School and has a history of over 30 years introducing over 5,000 sailors to the craft. Great Lakes Sailing Company operates out of a private marina here in Traverse City making it extremely easy to get to. The company features 11 certified instructors who will all be able to show you the ropes during a lively course.
The Basic Sailing course is the most popular option that is perfect for those with little to no experience sailing. You will be taken out on the water and shown how to perform all of the essential sailing techniques. This course can be completed in two days and features all private instruction. Additional courses that are available to take including Advanced Sailing, Catamaran Courses, and private or group events. Most other courses are a four-day experience, perfect for those having an extended stay here in Traverse City.
Courses are available at Great Lakes Sailing Company from mid-May up to the first week of October during the warmer weather seasons. Book your sailing experience with Great Lakes Sailing Company by calling 231-941-0535 today.
One of the best ways to experience Lake Michigan is by booking a sailing tour with a local charter. You will have nearly endless options here in Traverse City when looking for the perfect experience. However, Wind Dancer is a local favorite and has been providing local sailing charters for years now. You will vacation like a pro with their highly rated sailing tours that will take you across Lake Michigan and back again. You will find that Wind Dancer offers a variety of sailing tours out on the water including their signature sunset and day sails.
The Signature Sunset Sail is a popular private charter option that allows up to 18 people to enjoy this 2.5-hour experience. Of course, you will be provided with an amazing sailing experience, but the fun does not stop there. You will be served food from local artisan vendors including local beer and wine that are included in your ticket price. Expect a fine dining picnic out on the open water as the sun sets in the backdrop—nothing is more beautiful than this!
If you prefer to stick to the daytime, the Signature Day Sail is just as exciting with wide open views of Lake Michigan. You will still be given the full food and beverage treatment as the sunset sail. Add a little fun by joining for the Champagne Sunday Sail that takes off every Sunday during the season. As you glide over the West Bay waters, you will be given flutes of bubbly wine to enjoy with your charcuterie snacks.
Wind Dancer also hosts special event charters, including the Goo Goo Dolls Sail that will have you on the water for several hours before being dropped off at the National Cherry Festival to see the artist live in concert. Make sure to also browse the additional services offered by Wind Dancer, including pontoon charters and island adventures. Your next adventure out on the Grand Traverse Bay starts here with Wind Dancer and it’s amazing sailing tours!
Sailing is always better when you experience it here on the open waters of Lake Michigan and the Grand Traverse Bay. What will make your expedition to Traverse City even better is by reserving one of our vacation rentals here in the area. Our properties offer the finest amenities and keep you close to the best attractions in the city. Simply find your favorite rental with us today and get ready for Traverse City. Contact us to book your stay today! Search our rentals by bedroom here.
Some holidays seem to sneak up on us out of nowhere, giving us little time to prepare. Father’s Day can occasionally fall into that grouping, resulting in a quick dinner for your dad. This year, skip out on the quick and uneventful plans and instead book a wonderful vacation getaway for you and your dad. Father’s Day will be here before we know it, so timing is of the essence. There is no place more exciting for Father’s Day than Traverse City. You will find that Michigan is full of sunshine and exciting activities right here in June. Take a look at our Father’s Day guide to Traverse City, MI.
If your father or dad to be is an art fan they will want to make sure a visit to the Grand Traverse Bay Father’s Day Art & Craft Show is on the itinerary. This is the annual art show available each year located at the Civic Center. A variety of arts and crafts vendors will be on hand so you can show dad something cool or pick up a last-minute Father’s Day gift. Some items that dad may like include whiskey barrels cut down into the shape of wooden guitars and unique metal work. Regardless of what kind of art he is into there is sure to be something here that speaks to him. The 2024 Grand Traverse Bay Father’s Day Art & Craft Show at Civic Center will take place on June 15th and 16th from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day. Admission is always free for this event.
There is nothing more exciting for your father to do here in Traverse City than to take a sailing journey upon the waters of the Grand Traverse Bay. You will find the water is always a bright blue and the sun is shining here in June. You will find plenty of wind sailing charters available to book in the area but none are as fun as The Wind Dancer Experience. Their day sailing experience is 2.5 hours out on the water as you get to help sail or unwind and enjoy the view. This fully immersive experience is perfect for friends and family to join in on the fun as there is plenty of room on the 63-foot schooner. The experience starts by helping the captain hoist the sails and let you sit at the helm to prepare for the journey. The captain and crew of The Wild Dancer will provide a history of the Grand Traverse Bay and help you relax by offering a variety of food and drink. The Food, Wine, & Cocktails Tour is perfect for the adults to hit the water and be worry free. Book your experience today to truly enjoy the Grand Traverse Bay.
If your dad is an outdoorsy kind of guy, head on over to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This is one of the country’s most beautiful national parks and is close to Traverse City. As the name implies it is a stretch of national lakeshore that offers sandy beaches and winding hiking trails. There are plenty of flora and fauna that live on the lakeshore while high dunes provide incredible views of the lake. Stop by the island lighthouse for a look into the rich history of the lake. If you prefer to just unwind instead of hiking around you can always take a drive on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive that takes you through both the dune and forest areas. If your dad is a national parks lover, you simply cannot pass up the opportunity to explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Don’t stop at just the outdoor activities when you stop here in Traverse City. Take your dad out for a guy’s night out at the breweries. Traverse City has plenty of local craft breweries to stop at for a quick pint or tasting flight. Local favorites in the area include Silver Spruce Brewing Company, Right Brain Brewery, and Fresh Coast Beer Works. Each spot creates their own handcrafted beers with a variety of styles available. Order up your classic go-to options such as IPAs, lagers, wheat ales, and more, or try out seasonal favorites that are perfect for a crisp summer day on Father’s Day.
The fun never ends here in Traverse City making it the ideal spot for your next Father’s Day adventure. Contact us to book one of our vacation home rentals here in the area to find the most comfortable stay in town. Dad will how much you care when you treat him to a trip here!
Whenever you are looking to spend some time outdoors while perusing locally sourced goods you know that a farmers market is the best place to stop at. We all love a good farmers market where you can find local businesses selling locally sourced goods to help the community. The same fun can be had while you are out vacationing especially when you come to Traverse City. Our Michigan home has beautiful weather during most months of the year allowing us to host a variety of markets. Take a look at the best local farmers and craft markets we have in Traverse City:
When it comes to the biggest farmers market located in Downtown Traverse City, you will find that Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market has it all. This seasonal market is located between Cass and Union Streets on Lot B for a vibrant community market. The Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market is open during the months of June through October allowing you to enjoy our beautiful summer weather. The market takes place every Saturday during the season from 7:30 AM to noon and on Wednesdays from 8:00 AM to noon. This market has a big focus on locally sourced produce from local farms in the community and state of Michigan. Expect to find plenty of produce needed for you to prepare a gourmet meal back at your vacation rental; each of our rentals offer plenty of space in the kitchen to make it feel right at home! You will also find vendors selling artisanal products such as honey, soap, olive oil, and much more. Whatever you need can most likely be found at the Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market here in Traverse City!
Whenever you visit Traverse City you are sure to spend some time over at The Village located over at Grand Traverse Commons. The Village is a combination of historical buildings that have been repurposed from the previous Traverse City State Hospital into what is now a large commercial center. You will find a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, and more during your visit to The Village. Visitors will also be able to find farmers markets held here at The Village during different season of the year. During the winter, head over to The Village to find the Indoor Farmers Market located in The Mercato corridor. A variety of vendors will be stationed in this indoor space where you can find a variety of produce and goods. As you peruse the different stations you will also find that breakfast and lunch are also available from local businesses in the center. These businesses include Cuppa Joe, S2s-Sugar2Salt, Red Spire Brunch House, Spanglish, Pleasanton Bakery, and B50 The Village Store. Enjoy a bite to eat with a cup of coffee during a quick break from all the shopping. The Indoor Farmers Market takes place during the months from November to April from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM each Saturday.
While the Indoor Farmers Market is alive and well during the winter it will shut down once the summer season has arrived. During the warmer months of the year the Outdoor Farmers Market will take place on The Piazza between Cottageview and Red Drive. This outdoor space allows even more produce and locally sourced goods to be made available for you to purchase. Come check out produce, farm fresh eggs, fresh flowers, homemade sweets, baked goods and more. The Outdoor Farmers Market is always adding even more artisans and farmers to the growing portfolio so you are sure to find something new during your visit. The market will be held on Monday afternoons in June from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
While farmers markets are typically a weekly or yearly special event you will find that Gallagher’s Farm Market and Bakery is open every day for business. This local farm stand is where you can stop by for all things freshly baked or made. Enjoy a variety of breads, fresh produce, and fresh apples to choose from. You will also find their donuts including the popular cinnamon sugar pumpkin donuts that alone are worth the drive. Make sure to stop by during the fall season where you can also find pumpkins for decorating or additional pumpkin flavored goodies. Cherry season is another popular time to stop by for the fresh cherries. The little children even have a spot to play on in the back along with seeing the farm animals too. Make sure to visit Gallagher’s Farm Market and Bakery during your next visit!
Contact us to book your next stay here in town with one of our vacation rentals. You will find the best stay in all of Traverse City with us!
Before you know it, summer will be here, and with it should come an adventurous summer vacation. Treat yourself to a wonderful summer getaway to the shores of Traverse City. Our Michigan home is the perfect place to cool off as the temps start to rise. Traverse City features plenty of different ways to celebrate your summer. This includes an incredible selection of exclusive events that take place over the summer so you and the family can have a blast. Take a look at the top summer events in Traverse City.
There is no summer event here in Traverse City bigger than the National Cherry Festival. Traverse City is home to the best cherry orchards in the country and celebrates that with this annual event. The National Cherry Festival is no small feat but instead a week-long celebration of the community and industry found here in the city. Each year, the National Cherry Festival gets bigger and better, and the 2024 event is sure to be a crowd pleaser. The National Cherry Festival features over 150 different events all throughout the week, with around 85% of them free for kids to enjoy.
The Opening Ceremony will start off the fun for the week with a message from the National Cherry Queen herself. Other prominent figures from the Grand Traverse Region will also be on hand to help with the festivities. The rest of the week is a rollercoaster of fun and exciting events for the whole family. This includes an air show with the United State Navy Blue Angels, cherry pit spit content, classic car show, cherry pie eating contest, orchard tours, and much more. Many of the events will take place multiple times to ensure everyone can enjoy them at some point in the event. Some events that are new for the 2024 festival include beach volleyball tournaments with multiple options for teams.
We hope you love live entertainment, because the concert schedule for the National Cherry Festival is sure to be great. This year’s artists include the Goo Goo Dolls, Dylan Scott, and Gabriel Iglesias Live. Each performance will be held at the Pepsi Bayside Music Stage with tickets needed to be purchased.
The National Cherry Festival takes place over the Fourth of July, so you can expect a patriotic parade on the holiday itself. This year’s National Cherry Festival will take place from June 29th through July 6th for a whole week of fun and excitement. Come see Traverse City’s biggest event of the year!
Traverse City is also home to various other events in the area too. Tour de TART is a local bike ride event taking place in later in July. This event takes place on July 19th for a 17-mile bike ride starting from Darrow Park before ending at North Park. Along the way riders will be able to enjoy two food stops before ending their ride with a bayside meal. This family friendly event is perfect for those wanting to enjoy an outdoor activity together while feeling like a local. Adults will be able to order a glass of local wine or craft beer from the cash bar. All bikes will be transported back to Traverse City so you do not have to bike all 17 miles back to your vacation rental. Traverse City features several bike shops in the area where you can enjoy rental bikes to help you participate in this exciting event. Registration is required in advance and on sale now!
Our neighbors over in Cedar will be hosting their 42nd Annual Cedar Polka Festival that celebrates all things Polish. This festival brings in 10,000 visitors each year to participate in the four days of events and activities that highlight the rich Polish history in the area. Live Polka music will be on hand each day from the best Polka bands around the country. Of course, you cannot have a Polish festival without indulging yourself with delicious food and drink. Vendors will be on hand selling delicious Polish food along with hot dogs, ribs, popcorn, and much more. The Cedar Polka Festival is one of the largest Polka celebrations in the country and has become a mainstay in the area since its inauguration. Don’t miss out on this year’s 42nd Annual Cedar Polka Festival!
Make sure to book the best stay in town by reserving one of our vacation rentals here in the area. Our properties feature the finest amenities and plenty of space for you and your family. Contact us to book your favorite property today and get ready for the ideal Traverse City getaway! Search our rentals by bedroom here.
Get ready for a most excellent start to your summer vacation by planning for a Memorial Day getaway. Everyone knows that Memorial Day Weekend always signals the start of summer. The kids will finally have a break from school and the heat will be rising. Make the most of your summer plans by spending this Memorial Day getaway up here with us in Traverse City. We offer a stunning Michigan vacation destination that has plenty of exciting activities and events. Take a look at how you and your family will be able to celebrate Memorial Day in Traverse City:
Memorial Day is a holiday that celebrates our nation’s armed forces many times by looking at our past history. While Traverse City does not have specific Memorial Day events you can still enjoy a look into the history of the area. There is no more exciting way to do that than by visiting The Village Grand Traverse Commons. This area is popular with both locals and visitors, as it houses some of the best shopping and restaurants in Traverse City. Grand Traverse Commons is a repurposed asylum that was originally built in the 1800s. The building features a gorgeous Victorian Italianate design found nowhere else. Grand Traverse Commons is located on a 480 acre preserve with wooded terrain all around. While the asylum previously helped patients in need it now houses different eateries, boutiques, salons, exercise studios, and more. In between your shopping take a walking tour that will show you around the grounds while learning about its extensive history. Grand Traverse Commons is a great way to understand the past while looking forward to the future.
Another great way to cherish our history is by visiting one of the most established culture institutions found at Dennos Museum Center. This art gallery is an extension of the Northwestern Michigan College and features artwork that dates all the way back to the 19th century. The museum is specifically known for its Inuit art collection with over 3,000 pieces collected. Additional exhibits also feature the Canadian Woodland Indian collection, a compilation of woodcut art and works from Jozsef Domjan, and more. The museum also hosts a variety of special events including concerts and film screenings too. Educational attractions are an exciting way to learn more during your family travels over Memorial Day Weekend.
One of Traverse City’s biggest events taking place over Memorial Day Weekend each year is always Bayshore Marathon. This is one of the biggest marathons in the country and brings in thousands of participants each year who want the beautiful Grand Traverse backdrop during the race. Bayshore Marathon started back in 1983 and has since become one of the most scenic and enjoyable races in the Midwest. The marathon includes a variety of events for you to participate in including a 10K, half marathon, full marathon, and kids’ run. The races are held on the Saturday of Memorial Day Weekend, offering a full day of excitement. The marathon and half marathon often sell out each year and early registration is always highly encouraged. Some of the events still have openings, so make sure to book your pass for the upcoming Bayshore Marathon.
Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to enjoy that early summer weather with the sun shining and temperatures often staying in the low 70s during the day. Spend an amazing day outdoors when you visit a local winery such as Chateau Chantal Winery. Traverse City is a sprawling wine region where specially grown grapes are used in incredible wines. Wineries such as Chateau Chantal Winery offers charming tasting rooms with extensive outdoor patios. Try out a glass of wine or dive into a tasting flight to try a little bit of everything. Traverse City even has winery tours you can join where you are taken around to the different wineries in a shuttle. This allows you to enjoy your day without having to worry about driving. Come see the incredible wines here in the area.
Traverse City is also home to one of the most beautiful national parks, Sleeping Bear Dunes. This national shoreline features a sprawling park with gorgeous beaches, historic lighthouses, and hiking trails that will take you around the area. Many of the attractions in the park open up around Memorial Day making it a great time to check it out.
Get ready for your Memorial Day fun by reserving a trip here to Traverse City. Let our vacation rentals keep you comfortable from start to finish. Simply find your favorite property with us today and check out Traverse City. Contact us to book your stay today.
The year is shaping up to be one of our favorites right here in Traverse City, so we hope you can join us sometime soon. If you are looking for an opportunity soon to come check us out, look no further than Easter. The spring season features many different holidays, including Easter, allowing you to have the perfect opportunity for a quick vacation getaway. Traverse City has many different Easter events and spring activities that will leave you with plenty of memories. Take a look at the top ways to celebrate Easter in Traverse City, MI.
There is a lot to see and do in Traverse City but The Salvation Army has been putting on one of our favorite Easter events here in the city. The Easter Eggsperience Family Fun Event is much more than just a standard Easter egg hunt. This event takes place the Saturday before Easter, letting you have a whole weekend to celebrate the holiday. Head on over to the Salvation Army Community Center located at 1239 Barlow St to find the fun. The Easter Eggsperience Family Fun Event includes an Easter egg hunt that starts every 30 minutes so you do not have to worry about missing one. The event also includes lovely activities for children such as family photo booth, arts and crafts, bounce houses, an ice cream truck, hot food, and much more. The Salvation Army Easter Eggsperience Family Fun Event is absolutely free to attend and runs from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
The children get most of the fun on Easter but the adults know they have something to look forward to: Easter Brunch. Everyone knows that Easter brunch is where you can indulge yourself in delicious entrees and cocktails. There are plenty of incredible places to check out Easter brunch here in Traverse City, but Black Star Farms has one of the best selections. Their team will provide a culinary experience that includes savory and sweet items to delight the senses. You will be able to serve yourself with a variety of delicious options, including lox salmon strata, scrambled eggs, red skin hash browns, glazed ham, braised chicken, and much more. You will also find an assorted selection of house baked goods such as croissants and cinnamon rolls. Don’t forget desserts like Ghirardelli brownies and whipped cheesecake bites. Adults will be able to order wine by the bottle or grab a mimosa that is always a brunch staple for an additional cost. Tickets are currently on sale for the Easter brunch at Black Star Farms. Brunch will be available on Easter Sunday and an outdoor Easter egg hunt will also take place following the meal. Come experience brunch the best way it can be.
Another Easter egg hunt can be found here in Traverse City for the kids at Easter Egg-Stravaganza at Lake Ann Farm. Their annual egg hunt is a favorite here in the city and has fun for the whole family. The egg hunt starts right at noon and will be outside so make sure to dress warm! A separate egg hunt will also be held for young children to make sure everyone has an equal opportunity to collect as many eggs as possible. Additional activities at the Easter Egg-Stravaganza also include pony rides and a petting zoo. Attending the Easter Egg-Stravaganza is free with the pony rides costing $5 per person. Make sure to not pass up the Easter egg hunt as there will be a golden egg hidden among the others for a special prize your child can win. This year’s Easter Egg-Stravaganza will take place on Saturday March 30th from noon to 4:00 PM.
Make sure your Easter weekend also includes the opportunity to explore local attractions in the area. This can include heading on over to Sleeping Bear Dunes, a local national park that is a must see spot. Sleeping Bear Dunes is a national lakeshore that has some stunning scenery. You can explore the beautiful beaches in the area. The spring season is a great time to visit as everything will be in bloom and local plant life will be bright green. You can find the temperature to be a little chilly by the water so make sure to layer up. Sleeping Bear Dunes is a great spot to see!
The Easter season will be here before you know it, so start planning for your trip today. Our vacation rentals are guaranteed to provide you with a comfortable stay. Expect fine amenities and spacious homes in our selection of properties in the area. Contact us to book your stay today!
There is nothing quite like looking forward to an adventurous Spring Break getaway. Spring Break is not just for children and college students looking to take a break from school; it is a time where the weather is finally warming up and an invitation to enjoy a family getaway. If you are looking for your next spring getaway, look no further than Traverse City. You will find some exciting activities here in the area along with cool attractions that the whole family will love. Traverse City continues to be a jewel right here in Michigan. Here are some ways to spend Spring Break in Traverse City:
Traverse City has an important relationship with the nearby lakes that offer plenty of exciting fun. The Great Lakes are huge bodies of water that are bigger than many initially understand. Due to their size, these are a few of the lakes that actually have permanent lighthouses on the coast to help with ships. While the lighthouses do not open to the public until the month of May, you can still check them out in person.
Mission Point Lighthouse is one of those lighthouses that are not open until after Spring Break, but you can still access the park it is at. Come check out this popular lighthouse by taking pictures from the park and exploring the land around it. There is a local beach and several hiking trails that are sure to keep you occupied.
Grand Traverse Lighthouse is another historic lighthouse that has been preserved and is located on the tip of Leelanau Peninsula. Check out this historic building and explore the beautiful shoreline in the area.
Here in Northern Michigan, you will find Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park right by Traverse City. This is a huge and popular national park that brings in millions of visitors to the shore. Sleeping Bear Dunes first opened in 1970 and has since been named one of the most beautiful destinations in the country. You simply cannot pass up the opportunity to check out the shore for yourself during Spring Break.
The park is a prime spot for hikers, as it features almost 100 miles of hiking trails for you to explore. Get outside and appreciate this gorgeous park to its full extent. Popular trails include Platte Plains Trail and Dune Trail. Climbing the dunes is always a favorite activity for families and the beaches offer plenty of places to go swim at even if the water is still a little chilly. Keep an eye out on the weather when you visit to make sure you have the best conditions to explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park.
Another aspect of Traverse City that makes it a top travel destination for spring is its cherry blossoms. These gorgeous trees line miles of terrain here in the area throughout the hill country. The blooming season is not long, so seeing them up close during your late Spring Break is a must. Cherry blossoms can be seen all around Leelanau County and Benzie County, making them easy to find. Grab your camera and see these beautiful trees in person!
Traverse City and the surrounding area are also known to be a “wine country” for the Midwest. You will find around 50 different wineries in the Traverse City area, each offering their own version of handcrafted wines using grapes grown in the region. In fact, Traverse City is on the 45th Parallel, the same latitude line of prestigious wineries in Europe with which you may be more knowledgeable. This means Traverse City has the fertile soil and long hours of sunshine to grow delicious grapes. Some popular wineries in the area include Chateau Grand Traverse and Shady Lane Cellars.
Getting to several different wineries during your Spring Break can be difficult if you go it alone. Instead, book a wine tour that will provide transportation to several different wineries. You won’t have to worry about driving and you will be taken to wineries you want to enjoy. Don’t forget to grab a bottle for your vacation rental!
Your Spring Break itinerary will be complete when you reserve one of our vacation rental homes in the area. Enjoy a variety of luxury features and amenities that will set your stay apart. Our rentals can be found all over the city, keeping you close to these wonderful activities. Contact us today to find your favorite property with us and get ready for a Spring Break like no other.
Like most travelers, one of our favorite parts of vacation is having the opportunity to sample new foods at the restaurants in the towns we are visiting. Every state, every city actually, has a food that represents the “flavor” of the region and if you are planning an upcoming visit to Traverse City, we know you will want to enjoy a taste of our town. This guide to some of the top local restaurants in Travers City, is just more proof that we at Elevated want to ensure that every treasured guest will return home at the end of their stay feeling well fed and pampered during their winter escape to Michigan.
Doctors will tell us that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, making one of our favorite breakfast spots the perfect place to begin. The Cottage is a casual place, reminding one of a grandmother’s home where good smells are always coming from the kitchen and tables are laden with the best foods in the world. Offering pancakes the size of plates, fluffy omelets, and a menu filled with your favorite breakfast foods, The Cottage is open every day of the week from 8 until 8, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so if you love breakfast as much as we think you will, feel free to explore the later day options as well!
Your breakfast at the Cottage was hearty and definitely fueled your body for the morning’s activities, but a midday break and a deli lunch at Raduno will ensure that you won’t peter out during your afternoon activities. Raduno means gathering in Italian and as you gather with your family, chatting about your morning adventures, devouring sandwiched piled high with meat (or pasta dishes, their butcher’s lunch, or any of the delicious items on their menu) you may find yourself making plans to revisit this wonderful place when dinner time rolls around; they are open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 to 6.
Choices are important in life, and although the menu at Raduno is definitely varied, sometimes, the only answer to the age old question “what are we eating?” can only be a burger and Oakwood Proper Burgers provides the definitive burger of choice. A relatively new addition to the culinary landscape of Traverse City, having only opened in 2021, their menu is simple and beautiful, offering 10 gigantic burgers, all of which deserve to be washed down with their rich and creamy peanut butter shake. Oakwood is open every day of the week with varying hours, mostly for lunch and dinner.
We’ve explored the casual side of Traverse City, something most travelers will appreciate, but when you are in town for a special occasion, we think a visit to the Cook’s House will be exactly what you seek. Chef driven, this intimate restaurant offers an ever changing menu, so the items we mention here may not be available when you visit, but we can promise, there isn’t a bad dish on the menu. Offering an ala carte menu and a 5 or 7 course prixe fixe menu filled with farm to table offerings and the opportunity to add wine pairing to your choice, their elevated selection of delicious cuisine will provide a dining experience that will enhance whatever occasion you are celebrating. Open from 5 to 12, Tuesday through Saturday, there are only 24 tables in the Cook’s House, so reservations are required.
The pandemic changed the direction of many a restauranteur’s life, and Forrest, A Food Studio, offers a delicious example of how going with the flow can be a good thing. Originally opening as a cooking school, today Forrest is one of our favorite special occasion restaurants at dinner only, and just as at the Cook’s House, reservations are required at least one month in advance. Reservations are released at 8 AM on the first of the month. Their menu also changes on a monthly basis, but trust us, even though you may need to work at getting a table at Forrest, every bite you take will be your favorite, making it worth the effort.
Today we have simply provided a glimpse of the culinary landscape of our hometown, and we can promise there is so much more to explore. However, on those nights when it is a little too chilly to venture out, or you are just so comfortable lounging in your Elevated sanctuary that you can’t imagine leaving your place by the fire, our fully equipped kitchens will ensure that the best meal in town will be enjoyed at home! Contact us to reserve your favorite escape today!
For many of us, the resolutions we made for 2024 offer a slightly different slant than the ones made in previous years. This year, we resolve to be good to ourselves, to embrace the quiet moments, and to spend more time traveling, perhaps starting with a trip to Traverse City. If your journey brings you in our direction, we at Elevated have created a guide to the beauty of our Michigan town, showing you everything that makes our hometown special and all the ways you can enjoy the most comfortable adventures with a stay in our seasonal sanctuaries.
In the long dark days of winter, it is important to keep your sense of humor which is why we have devoted January 31st to February 4th to hosting the Traverse City Comedy Fest. Offering over 20 different shows and 80 different comedians during its hilarious 5 days, some of our nation’s and many of Michigan’s funniest men and women will be performing on multiple stages in 7 different venues, all determined to make you laugh until your jaw aches. It’s hard to be sad over gray skies and a little extra snow when you are surrounded by laughter and any night on the town during the comedy fest is destined to bring you your happiest memories.
For most people the Saturday morning Farmer’s Market is strictly a spring and summer event, but in Traverse City, we are known for coloring outside the lines and as such, we would like to present to you the Traverse City Indoor Farmers Market. Located at the Mercado, 800 Cottageview Drive, and opening at 10 AM on Saturday mornings, a visit to the indoor market will give visitors a chance to stock their vegetable crispers, pick up some gifts for their pet sitters, house watchers, and mail gatherers back home, and enjoy a summery activity in the warm confines of the Mercado.
The beauty of Traverse City shines even brighter at sunset whether you have bundled up and stepped out onto the balcony of your Elevated escape with a cup of hot cocoa in hand or are dressed in your warmest clothes, perched on a log in Sunset Park (635 E Front Street) with a cup of coffee in hand. These last few minutes of sunshine will bring you the most tranquil memories. Watch the sky come alive in a kaleidoscope of fiery color and for those final seconds, you will forget about the cold and feel peace and serenity invade your heart.
Your foodie tour to Traverse City will set the stage for a year filled with happy stomachs and cheering taste buds. The culinary landscape of our hometown is an exciting one, filled with international delights intermingled with classic home cooking that travelers will swear could have come from their own grandma’s country kitchen. Explore the casual delights found in the food trucks that are an important part of the downtown arena, coming together in one big convergence in a space called The Little Fleet. Elegance and tradition combine with a visit to the Cook’s House, a chef-driven restaurant serving farm-to-table foods that are both healthy and delicious and when nothing but a thick and juicy burger will sate your traveler’s appetite, stopping by the casual confines of Blue Tractor Cook Shop will give you the meal you crave. And because breakfast is the most important meal of the day, we can’t end this paragraph without mentioning the breakfasts and brunches offered by the Red Spire Brunch House. Go. You won’t regret it!
As the snow falls on the winter landscape of Traverse City you may find yourself wanting to explore the warmer side of our Michigan hometown, so why not spend the day exploring our history? The museums of Traverse City will take you on a trip back in time or, if you prefer, can offer an exploration of our creative side. Music is a language the entire world can understand and the Music House Museum, 7377 US-31 in nearby Williamsburg, offers an up close and personal glimpse into music boxes that have been created throughout the decades. The Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum, Sleeping Bear Dunes Road in nearby Glen Arbor explores the history of the Coast Guard, and the Grand Traverse Lighthouse, 15500 Lighthouse Point Road in Northpoint are all museums worthy of exploring while also offering a place to stay warm on the coldest of winter days.
Warm and Cozy
At the end of every day, our Elevated escapes will bring guests the comfort, coziness, and warmth they seek. Contact us today to reserve your favorite sanctuary today!
