The Old Town Playhouse is yet another performing arts center but far removed from the rich environment of the aforementioned opera house. It is believed that the teas are able to boost physical and mental health, and the farm offers wellness classes and tastings. Unsubscribe anytime. Skip to content. All instructors are licensed and trained for utmost safety so you can have peace of mind while you get your thrill! The design of the monument is a representation of an air rescue helicopter called the MH-65 Dolphin, and it was actually designed by a local student. The lighthouse is open to the public between May and November and is one of the top things to do in Traverse City, hands down! But make sure you do try a piece of sweet, crumbly cherry pie! Address: 202 E Grandview Pkwy, Traverse City, MI, United States. 12. Farm stands and markets dot the roads rolling around Traverse City, but Gallagher's holds special appeal. What are you most looking forward to on your trip to the tip of the mitt? In one story, the cubs sink and later resurface, forming the North and South Manitou Islands just off the shore of the dunes. Even taking a scenic drive is a great way to get a feel for Michigans beauty all while feeling the breeze from the lakes in your hair! Address: 18250 Mission Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States. Before your visit, be sure to check the festivals events page so you dont miss your favorite activities. Native Americans were among the many people to take part in this useful practice. One fixture of the Fairy Trails that is permanent is a gigantic birds nest sculpture made with tree limbs and sticks, repaired yearly so its always as good as new. Summer crowds are gone, but weekends bring leaf peepers chasing the colorful scenery! Flyboarding is a kind of water sport that combines jet skis, wakeboards, and skateboards into a single concept. Fun fact, this area produces 40% of all of the tart cherries consumed in the United States. Know your airline's carry-on luggage size restrictions before you fly. A handful of the city's hottest beer spots can be found along this thoroughfare too. This kind of protection is heavily advocated for by historians, who have been making moves to try and save these trees since 1939 to prevent them from being lost to development and deforestation. Excellent article! Over 1,600 pieces are a part of this array, including drawings, textiles, prints, and sculptures by indigenous Inuit artists, mostly of the modern era. The Victorian-Italianate-style Asylum was established in 1881, and the first superintendent Dr. James Decker Munson believed that patients needed treatment through kindness and comfort and that Beauty is Therapy, filling the asylum with flowers from the asylums greenhouse and the trees planted on the property. Sailing Yacht Scout - Day Tours. Known as one of the most beautiful places in America, the Fairy Trails is part of the Historic Barns Park, spanning a dirt trail that winds through a portion of Northwoods forest. Traverse City often considers itself the worlds Cherry Capital and this is one of the tourist attractions that might prove its point! The Dennos Museum Center houses the largest and most historically complete collection in the country, with more than 1,600 works. The farm-to-table scene is kickin here, with the agricultural roots of the area on display just miles outside of downtown. Families noted that this park is perfect for the kiddos thanks to the calm waters and abundant amenities. Keith J. Located on the waterfront of Traverse City, Michigan, Clinch Park is a fun spot and one of the citys greatest places to visit of its kind. Surrounded by water, towering forests, and gorgeous beaches, this Lake Michigan beach town is the perfect destinaton for a summer or fall getaway! From the north, youll enter the Lower Peninsula via I-75 S. And this route takes you over the Mackinac Bridge, a 5-mile long, beautifully scenic suspension bridge connecting Michigans 2 peninsulas. Here are a few highlights in downtown Traverse City: Traverse City is a freshwater beach town, with dozens of pristine sandy shores for a perfect day at the beach. happy, you will find plenty of joy in exploring this beautiful landscape. Weigh stations erected locally meant that there was no need to stand in line in the stations in the city, allowing for quick transportation and loading with trucks. These two forested islands, one more developed and one almost entirely wilderness area, look like smaller sleeping bears off the Lake Michigan shore. Perhaps what the Dennos Museum Center is most famous for among its extensive 3,000 works is its Inuit art collection, sourced from Nunavuts Baffin Island in Canada. Its showcases cover a wide range of different topics, including gravity, water tables, dress up games, replica lighthouses and freighters, bridge-building, and more. With all the awards it has won, the Light of Day Organic Farm and Tea Shop is a must see for tea-lovers! Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the few places in the world that visitors can see perched dunes. Local painters have come to this quiet corner of Traverse City, Michigan for generations to mark the tree with vibrant colors, resulting in layers of hues of the rainbow coating the Hippie Tree. It is also rather spiritual, involving prayer, positivity, and reverence as one plants and farms. Fill up on cherry pie, wine, beer, barbeque, and whatever else you can imagine from local restaurants, food trucks, and farmers markets. Address: 830 Cottageview Dr #101, Traverse City, MI 49684, United States, Cedar777, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Looking for more thrill and excitement? The area is a popular year-round vacation spot for Michiganders and Midwesterners and home to the National Cherry Festival. Check out five unique things to do near Traverse City this winter. In recent years, it's gained increased nationwide notoriety. By smketch11. (Getty Images) The Pine Tree State is first and foremost a nature . What's more, the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area is easily accessible from The Village and offers visitors 140 acres of trails to traverse. As such, it seems like a rather odd option for what to do in the already teeming and vibrant City, but its historical value makes it an interesting stop. If youre driving to Traverse City, youll either drive in through Michigans Upper or Lower Peninsula. More than just being picturesque AF, these lighthouses offer killer views, fascinating Great Lakes History, and some of the best beach picnicking spots. Mackenzie Roche|Amanda NorcrossJune 30, 2023, Katie Hearsum|Timothy J. ForsterJune 28, 2023, Natural Wonders, Parks and Gardens, Hiking, Recreation, Beaches, Free, Parks and Gardens, Swimming/Pools, Free, Cafes, Parks and Gardens, Neighborhood/Area, Recreation, Shopping, Museums, Beaches, Parks and Gardens, Historic Homes/Mansions, Cafes, Parks and Gardens, Neighborhood/Area, Shopping, Beaches, Free, Cafes, Parks and Gardens, Neighborhood/Area, Hiking, Recreation, Shopping, Sightseeing, Wineries/Breweries. Like Brys, it is also an estate winery, and you can find it north of Grand Traverse on the Old Mission Peninsula. Things to Do with Kids in Traverse City, MI Kid-Friendly Filter by Distance: 5 ml 10 ml 25 ml 50 ml 100 ml Refine Your Search RESET ( 143 results) Categories All (143) Outdoor Places (28) Water Activities (19) Sights & Landmarks (17) Sports & Fitness (17) Adventures (14) Museums & Galleries (13) Amusement (11) Entertainment & Shows (9) Tours (8) Cider. Address: 233 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49684, United States. While you can have a lovely time at any of the local wineries, here a few of the locals favorites: The easiest way to visit Traverse City Wineries is to book a wine tour. Things To Do In Traverse City In Traverse City, it's not about any one thing. The pan from that pie now stands in the city on Cass Road as a fun reminder of that delicious undertaking. Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, where to go wine tasting in Traverse City, day tour to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART trails), The Ultimate Self-Guided Tour of Cleveland Breweries, 18 Marvelous Things to Do in Mesa, Arizona, 25 Sensational Things to Do in San Antonio, Texas, 33 Essentials for Traveling with a Baby (& what to leave at home), 23 Awesome Things to do in Zermatt, Switzerland. A walking tour will take you around the grounds and allow you to learn about the places history. While the Sleeping Bear legend isnt particularlyum. These ceremonies, held in May, celebrated, of course, the beautiful cherry blossoms. .25 miles of sandy beach on Grand Traverse Bay for swimming and kayaking. Its owned and operated by a family and is one of the best places to sample wine in Traverse City. Updated: Jan. 19, 2021, 3:31 p.m. | . The beach has its own playground and a concession stand for snacks. Visit this 19th-century lighthouse for a taste of history and a little bit of rest and relaxation. Easily overlooked in favor of the wineries that dot the region, this blast from the past is equally worth the visit. You can find the Texas Renaissance Festival in Todd Mission, about 55 . Among the options for things to see and do at the park are sunbathing, hiking, fishing, swimming, metal detecting, and boat riding (which you can achieve by renting an available boat). 4. Dr. Munson also prohibited straight jackets, really breaking the mold of the bleak and abusive asylums we have an image of today. The area is perhaps best known for Traverse City, Michigan, which lies at the base of Grand Traverse Bay, but there are so many things to do on the peninsula itself that one could spend an entire vacation exploring it. If you'd prefer to sample some brews with the help of a local beer enthusiast, consider a tour with Kayak, Bike & Brewor River Outfitters, both of which offer a hybrid tour that combines outdoor recreation with beer tastings. The Traverse Tall Ship Company is a fantastic and fun way to get some sightseeing done while youre in Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City, Michigan. Both companies also offer private charters. While Michiganders dont have real mountains to speak of, we do have rolling hills, towering dunes, and a whole lot of beautiful water to look at not to mention the white pine forests and famous trout streams. A locally loved gem, Gallaghers Farm Market and Bakery has been standing since 1971, serving residents of Traverse City, Michigan ever since. Both statues were installed in 1999 and were actually originally dismissed due to their unorthodox nature. Hikers, bikers, runners, joggers, and even snowshoes users can enjoy the challenging trail of Vasa Pathway while those who want a more picturesque journey can try the Boardman Lake Trail. Here are the best boutique hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals in Traverse City. If being on the water really isnt your thing, you can still get a kick out of walking around one of the several marinas on the bay and ogling at some seriously posh yachts! A post shared by Heather Higham (@snaphappymichigan). Its a true testament to the way that the city has grown and evolved over time, adapting its historical heritage to modern yet culturally relevant businesses, education centers, and more. Other permanent collections include works from Canadian Woodland artists and Jozsef Domjan, a renowned American artist who is known for his intricate woodcut art. TART is a network of connected, multiuse trails that cover ground in both Grand Traverse County, the nearby Leelanau Peninsula and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore. The lighthouse was originally built in the late 1800s after a ship crashed into a coral reef and sank before it could reach the shore. Another one of the things to see at the Dennos Museum Center is the Canadian Woodland Indian collection, another permanent collection of art. It opened its doors about 160 years ago and, though it appears humble, is more than just a simple stop along the road for snacks. Psst: Planning a trip to the northern states? For free By area With kids Free Things to Do in Traverse City Some say the best things in life are free. While here, families with children are encouraged to head to the farm and interact with the animals. Traverse City, Michigan Tunnels of Traverse City State Hospital A subterranean world of tunnels links several buildings of this rare 19th-century asylum. The second is the Studio Theater with 80 seats on Railroad Place. The Hippie Tree might have a bit of an unassuming name, but its easily one of Traverse Citys most unique and fascinating places to visit. Highly-rated boat tour operators in the area include Nauti-Cat and Traverse Tall Ship Company. Designed as an interactive, hands-on type of educational and engagement space, the museum is packed with activities that will interest, challenge, and teach children all at the same time! Below are some of the best places to get your cherry fix! In 1925, the first-ever Cherry Queen was crowned, sparking a tradition that continues to this day. And for good reason. Things To Do In Traverse City 1. There are plenty of great trails and e-bikes just make it. Its main industry is tourism. Traverse City gets its name from Grand Traverse Bay (a bay of Lake Michigan) which got its name from the French voyageurs who made the long crossing (le grande traverse) from Canada south across the bay. Wine Tastings 5 Tours & Activities Food & Drink 5 Tours & Activities Food Tours 5 Tours & Activities Why you are seeing these recommendations Reserve Now & Pay Later 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula 1,203 Reviews Also See: Things to Do in Jackson, MI. And home to the Worlds Largest Cherry Pie Pan unfortunately, not the greatest attraction the city has to offer. Fall activities, like Halloween pumpkin picking and a corn maze, also take place. We tapped a local insider, Emily Batdorf for a locals guide to things to do in Traverse City! World's Largest Cherry Pie Tin. Railroads were built to transport the lumber out of the area, many of which now serve as routes for local recreational trails. It uses the site of an asylum built in the 1800s to house salons, eateries, boutiques, stores, exercise studios, and even offices. The Traverse Area Recreation Trails, known simply as TART, provides transport and recreational paths across Traverse City, spanning the Leelanau Peninsula. More than 60 miles of multi-use trails, with the longest being the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail of 27 miles, encompass TART, filled with lots of places to see. YourAmazingPlaces.com today is narrowing down a list of 23 places which we assume that those places are so unique and are worth to be seen in your lifetime. ukurcuma in the Beyolu district is very close to Taksim Square, the heart of modern entertainment, shopping, and culture in Istanbul. One of the wineries considered among the citys tourist attractions is the Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery. You can enjoy cherries any time of year in Traverse City, but as you know by now, TC is known for cherries. In addition to its wineries, Traverse City is also known for its many breweries. This winter guide was built with families in mind, and most of the activities are kid-friendly! Gallagher's Farm Market and Bakery. Youll have no trouble lining up your itinerary, but here are some local tips to help you enjoy the best things to do in Traverse City! The best way to see em? Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha is a city in the southern Indian state of Kerala which is famed for its backwaters; an intricate network of canals and lagoons that weave inside and around the beautiful surroundings of the region. For more fun activities, look out for events, performances, concerts, and film screenings that are held at this lovely cultural attraction. Alleppey in India. Traverse City has been charming visitors for decades now, and it makes for a romantic getaway in Michigan. The area is home to a variety of boutiques selling everything from fudge and cheese to custom jewelryand dog treats. Let us know in the comments below! The Legend of Sleeping Bear recounts the story of a mother bear and her two cubs escaping fire or famine (depending on the story) in the woods of what is now Wisconsin. During the winter, the park is open to visitors for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding and more. But if youd rather enjoy the cherries, eat em at your own pace while catching a live concert, watching the parade and fireworks, or seeing the crowning of the Cherry Prince and Princess thats right, elementary-aged cherry ambassadors! When you're ready to head north, book a room online or give us a call at 800-236-1577 for more information. It is also often put in silly garb just for a little fun by random locals. Traverse City's location right along the waters of Lake Michigan gives visitors that opportunity. The winery specializes in making cool-climate sparkling and red wines. Here are a few locals tips to help you plan your trip! It is a celebratory structure meant to honor the Coast Guard of the United States, especially given its presence in the city, which has been abundant since 1946. Big events like the National Cherry Festival and the Traverse City Film Festival are major summer attractions and bring major crowds. If youre aching for some alcohol this weekend, this is a classy and exciting way to get your fix. Traverse City and the surrounding areas are crisscrossed with an incredible network of trails Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART trails) (accidentally or intentionally on cherry theme- the jury is out!). What to Do in Bay City. Well also send our favorite travel tips straight to your inbox! The beating heart of Traverse City is its downtown and Front Street is where it all happens. Why not head to Detroit & Frankenmuth? Best Outdoor Family Things to Do in Traverse City with Kids Look for Hidden Cache Considered the biggest treasure hunt, geocaching is one of the one-of-a-kind free things to do in Traverse City. Address: 1490 Red Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684, United States. One is the Main Stage that can seat 277 audience members, located on East Eighth Street. Where does the name of Sleeping Bear Dunes come from? While the end of spring can be a little chilly, theres a palpable excitement in the air as the city opens up after a long winter. Are you looking forward to a Traverse City trip be full of cherries, beaches, wine, and adventure? Address: Traverse City, MI 49684, United States. Craig Sterken / Shutterstock. St. To the west, the Leelanau Peninsula (Michigans pinky finger) separates Traverse City from the deep, open waters of Lake Michigan. It is home to vibrant annual festivals, such as the Winter Comedy Festival that is nationally revered and the much-loved National Cherry Festival. And sure, those beaches are incredible, but they have sharks. 271. Great Children's garden & floral area in front of the Library for kids of all ages to explore & enjoy as well as the. Traverse City State Park spans 48 acres and is an urban park a short distance away from the downtown area. And salt. This vacant station is a relic of harvest processing techniques of the mid-20th century. Best Family Things to Do in Traverse City Traverse City is a town of approximately 15,000 in northwestern Michigan. For more than 50 years, an iconic sign has greeted visiting fudgies to the Traverse City area. When you travel, you will get to know many places and meet many different cultures. Your email address will not be published. Though old, it has been restored and looked after well. In fact, this is one of the 21 communities considered Coast Guard Cities by Congress! Feb. 2, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. 26 Top Things to Do in Maine in 2023. There is so much stuff to do that its hard to pick the best attractions, so were here to help you out with a travel guide. Its an amazing experience and a great place to have such an experience is right here in the city. To get the most out of everything, you need the perfect place to stay during your visit. Giant pies were baked, the celebration was extended, and the whole shebang was declared a national celebration. Head to the Upper Deck to look over Grand Traverse Bay and get a panoramic view of the vineyard! Our guide covers 25 of our favorite activities in the winter. Today, the site is listed on the National and State Historic Register and visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour and climb to the top for spectacular views of Grand Traverse Bay. While visiting, you'll have your choice between more than 20 beer spots. Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park Fairy Trail, wants to go to Long before gourmet restaurants, wine tours, and paddle boarding, this region of northern Michigan was inhabited by the Ojibwe, Odawa, and Potawatomi peoples. Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park Fairy Trail. Things to Do with Kids in Traverse City They don't call Traverse City a four-season playground for nothing! Address: 1213 W Civic Center Dr, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States. It was used between 1870 and 1933 and has always been a beautiful place, flanked by beautiful luscious nature and led through orchards and vineyards. It is situated near the grounds of the Old State Hospital, in the wooded area around. The warm sand is pleasantly soft, the water is a bright Caribbean blue, and you still get that amazing sea breeze. Please try again. 4: Alleppey - India. Address: 3309 Blue Water Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686, United States. So put on the sunscreen, grab your shades, and pick a water sport to suit your fancy! Manitou. In fact, some would say its a must do in the city! In this story, the mother remains laying on top of the dunes, watching over her cubs. The weight station was finished in 1920 and spent four decades serving Old Mission Peninsula cherry growers, helping them to form competition with Grand Traverse Bay cherry growers. But theres plenty else to see and do if thats not your thing including a totally haunted tour of a totally haunted town. Heres what to do on a visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes: You can also take a day tour to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park with a guide that is well-versed in the area history, flora & fauna, and geologic formation of the Great lakes and Dune formations. For more suggestions, check out Wayfaring With Wagners local guide on where to go wine tasting in Traverse City! Need some help planning your next adventure? Plus, each patient's room had a window that allowed plenty of natural light as well as views of the lush grounds. It is a great New York experience if you are looking for unusual things to do in New York. No trip to Traverse City is complete without a stop at Front Street, the heart of the city. The lighthearted additions to the statue make taking a photo with the Patty Hannah statue among the top things to do in Traverse City! And while the crowds are now bigger and the beaches now busier, its about time everyone noticed how absolutely gorgeous this part of the world is! The downtown area is small enough that you can pretty much walk anywhere! 20. Or California. Traverse Colantha Walker helped to make this happen by producing more than enough milk for the facility. If you still have room, check out amical, Red Ginger, Brasserie Amie, Sorellina, and 7 Monks Taproom! Let your deepest foodie desires take you on your own culinary adventure just make sure you check out these favorite TC dishes and restaurants before leaving town! Cherry orchards. Sandy dunes. There's no better way to experience Lake Michigan than directly on the water, and Traverse City has several options for travelers to be able to do just that. Here are our picks for the 29 best and fun things to do in Traverse City, Michigan! Or Florida. There are also a number of theatrical shows for children held throughout the year, and the Old Town Playhouse prides itself on teaching kids about the arts. And in mid to late May, visitors can enjoy the stunning cherry blossoms that adorn the regions numerous orchards. Discover the top things to do in Traverse City in the fall including: scenic fall drives up Old Mission Peninsula; enjoy the fall colors from Clinch Park; visit a Traverse City winery; take tour of three Lake Michigan lighthouses; visit two of Michigan's most haunted places Plus, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also has its own TART trail that covers 20 miles of terrain. Each has the perfect conditions for growing certain grapes and for you to enjoy some wine. World's Largest Cherry Pie Tin, wants to go to The Trail Marker Tree looks a little odd on sight, but even its strangeness doesnt fully explain why its one of the best Traverse City attractions for a quick, easy educational stop. That tells you a lot about the philanthropic and generous nature of the citys residents! 343 of these campsites are available, so you wont run out of space! In addition to beautiful interiors, patients were served meals on china, fresh flowers were placed in common areas and artwork, some featuring inspirational quotes, were hung throughout the former asylum. Well, she was actually a really important part of the history of the asylum, as it needed to be self-sustainable. Anyone at all can work on creating houses for the trail, and theyre changed every year in the summer and early fall, replaced with new designs. If you dont visit during this cherry-jam-packed week, no worries: there are plenty of cherries to go around during the rest of the summer. In 2016 we quit our jobs, put our stuff in storage, and took off on a (disastrous) year-long honeymoon. It takes up 25 acres of space and all teas are made organically in small batches, harvested by hand, and packaged in a sustainable fashion. Traverse City sits at the base of two skinny, finger-like peninsulas. Downtown is very walkable; you can access beaches, breweries, restaurants and shopping all within a few blocks. Why not check out some of the best things to do in Ann Arbor& some of the fun things to do in Grand Rapids? It would lose its status in 1990, but the pie pan remains a reminder of that victory and its also still the largest of its kind documented and remaining! There's also the TC Cycle Pub, which takes visitors on a beer crawl via a six- or fourteen-passenger bikes. It has a similar sculpture nearby called the Circle of Life with a slightly different meaning. Some items you can find here include jellies, cheeses, bread, jams, pastries, pies, maple syrup, salsa, honey, and wine all completely homemade! And so. And if you happen to be visiting in November, you can attend the city's annual event dedicated to beer, Traverse City Beer Week. Address: 116 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49684, United States. Best Outdoor Things to Do in Traverse City in Winter Best Traverse City Winter Festivals and Events Best Wineries, Breweries, and Tours in Traverse City in Winter Best Winter Activities Near Traverse City Explore Traverse City, Michigan, in Winter and All Year Long But its historical significance is not why visiting the Perry Hannah statue is a must do! A variety of different durations are available for boat rentals, and each one offers its own perks. What visitors will notice pretty quickly about The Village is its striking architecture. It was crafted to be beautiful according to the beliefs of the old Traverse City asylums medical superintendent, who strongly thought that a lovely environment would help the recovery of patients, both physically and mentally. It began as an Eagle Scout project back in 2015 and has become a staple of the trail ever since! This grave is one of the more fascinating Traverse City attractions, beautifully flanked by lovely evergreen trees. A post shared by Earth-to-Table. Well, the act of warping trees is far from new, and for centuries, humans have intervened to shape trees so they could act as landmarks for navigation and wayfinding.