... Nature, Adventure & Pure Michigan Beauty
Traverse City, Michigan, sets a bountiful table of food and drink for all types of connoisseurs. Frequently listed on many top-ten lists for foodies and travelers, Traverse City eateries offer an expansive selection in nearly every area of the city.
Ground zero for food lovers is the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Here, visitors and residents alike will find the highest concentration of small shops and restaurants offering a variety of superb cuisine.
Enjoy a steaming cup of organic brew at a coffee shop housed in what used to be a mental asylum. Sample some of Traverse City’s famous Riesling made in the old laundry room of that same former asylum. If chocolate is your downfall, prepare to be thoroughly indulged at the local chocolate bar, where you can pair homemade confections with a local wine or spirit.
Diners in Traverse City, Michigan, can choose from Greek, French, Asian, and American cuisine. Seafood lovers, vegetarians, and vegans will also find their appetites easily satisfied at hundreds of restaurants throughout TC. Several indoor and outdoor farmers markets provide fresh, farm-to-table ingredients to residents and restaurants year-round.
If the birth of Traverse City began with the lumber mills, it has matured and withstood the test of time due to its viticulture, or grape-growing industry. Traverse City repurposed itself after the decline of the lumber industry.
Today, vineyards and wineries dot the landscape of Traverse City and provide sustenance to both the town’s economy and its visitors. By capitalizing on the rich soil surrounding the area, Traverse City became one of the top producers of cherries in the world. The white grapes grown in the vineyards produce the Rieslings for which the region is famous.
There is a growing interest in the Traverse City wine and restaurant scene. Tour companies in the area offer guided wine tours, allowing enthusiasts to indulge in their favorites from the comfort and safety of a chauffeured vehicle.
Paired with gorgeous views and great ambiance, even those who do not consider themselves foodies enjoy Traverse City’s diverse selections. Whether one prefers a gourmet meal or simply a good, hot dish, Traverse City delivers.
Finding the perfect place to stay in Traverse City, Michigan isn’t difficult because of limited options—it’s challenging because there are so many exceptional choices. With more than 5,000 lodging options, including waterfront resorts, boutique hotels, charming bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and scenic campgrounds, Traverse City offers accommodations for every style, season, and budget.
One of the most sought-after destinations for lodging near Traverse City is Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Spanning more than 70,000 acres, this breathtaking natural treasure features towering sand dunes, panoramic Lake Michigan views, white sandy beaches, lush forests, and abundant wildlife.
Outdoor enthusiasts can stay at family-friendly campgrounds offering water access, modern restrooms, and RV hookups. For a more rustic experience, backcountry campsites provide the opportunity to pitch a tent beneath the stars and immerse yourself in the beauty of Northern Michigan. If campsites within the park are full, nearby private campgrounds and Michigan state parks offer additional options just minutes away.
Visitors looking to redeem hotel rewards points or enjoy full-service amenities will find most major hotel brands in Traverse City. Many hotels are conveniently located near downtown, around Boardman Lake, and along the scenic shores of East and West Grand Traverse Bay.
From waterfront resorts with private beaches to nationally recognized hotel chains and locally owned boutique properties, guests can enjoy easy access to:
Front Street shopping and dining
Grand Traverse Bay beaches
Wineries and wine tours
Festivals and seasonal events
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a business trip, or a family vacation, Traverse City hotels provide comfort, convenience, and stunning waterfront views.
For travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized experience, Traverse City bed and breakfasts offer warmth, character, and distinctive charm. Some are tucked among working vineyards on Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula, providing peaceful countryside settings with sweeping bay views.
Others are located in beautifully restored historic homes near downtown attractions. Many offer private beach access, gourmet breakfasts, and cozy, romantic atmospheres—perfect for couples or those looking to unwind in a quieter setting.
Vacation homes and condominiums are ideal for families, large groups, and extended stays. These spacious accommodations often include full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and private outdoor areas—making them a cost-effective and comfortable option.
Many visitors considering a permanent move to Traverse City choose to rent a vacation home first to experience the lifestyle, neighborhoods, and seasonal beauty before relocating.
From lakeside resorts and boutique hotels to rustic campgrounds and luxury vacation rentals, Traverse City, Michigan offers the perfect place to stay in every season.
No matter your travel style or budget, your Northern Michigan escape begins with the right accommodations.