City centre Traverse City captures the essence of northern Michigan charm along Grand Traverse Bay. Historic 19th-century buildings house unique shops and eateries along bustling Front Street. The waterfront beckons with sandy beaches and a marina perfect for summer adventures. Cultural gems like the State Theatre and City Opera House anchor the vibrant arts scene. Clinch Park offers beachfront relaxation just steps from downtown's energy. Local breweries and farm-to-table restaurants showcase regional flavours and cherry-inspired cuisine. During summer, the area comes alive with festivals celebrating everything from cherries to independent films.
Grand Traverse Commons showcases Victorian-Italianate buildings from a former psychiatric hospital, now transformed into a creative hub. Art galleries, studios, and boutiques fill the historic red brick structures with new life. The Village houses local shops, restaurants, and a year-round farmers market. Tree-lined pathways connect buildings across manicured grounds, offering peaceful spaces for visitors. Left Foot Charley winery and artisan studios provide authentic northern Michigan flavours. The campus-like atmosphere makes for easy exploration of this unique historic district.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Traverse City
Traverse City Beach
10.0/10 (1 review)
Traverse City's beaches offer crystal-clear waters along Grand Traverse Bay with sandy shores just steps from city centre. Enjoy Clinch Park's splash pad or West End's volleyball scene for a perfect summer day.
Photo by Fauncefus
Open Photo by Fauncefus
Front Street
9.2/10 (3,678 reviews)
Front Street captivates with speciality shops in Victorian buildings along Traverse City's vibrant city centre. Explore boutiques, savour local cuisine, and time your visit with seasonal festivals like the National Cherry Festival.
Traverse City State Park
8.8/10 (1,220 reviews)
This quarter-mile sandy beach on Grand Traverse Bay offers pristine waters and stunning views just minutes from city centre. Reserve your campsite early for summer stays and enjoy direct access to the scenic TART Trail.
Photo by Andrea De La Torre
Open Photo by Andrea De La Torre
Clinch Park Beach
8.8/10 (971 reviews)
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Clinch Park Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Traverse City. Discover the area's lively festivals or seek out its local tours.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
8.4/10 (61 reviews)
Great Wolf Lodge offers a year-round indoor water paradise with thrilling slides and a multistorey interactive treehouse. Beyond water fun, families can enjoy MagiQuest adventures, mini-golf, and diverse dining options.
Chateau Chantal
8.8/10 (916 reviews)
This hilltop winery on Old Mission Peninsula pairs award-winning wines with stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay. Enjoy a guided tasting on the terrace or book a night at their elegant bed and breakfast.
Turtle Creek Stadium
8.0/10 (188 reviews)
This charming ballpark welcomes fans with its distinctive beachside cottage architecture. Enjoy evening games under the lights while sampling local craft beers during the Pit Spitters' season.
Village at Grand Traverse Commons
8.8/10 (660 reviews)
This former state hospital now thrives as a community hub with preserved 19th-century architecture. Explore boutique shops, art galleries, and fine dining while wandering through historic buildings and scenic grounds.
"I liked the ease of check-in and check-out. The room was clean, but the paint on the walls was dingy with stains, and in need of a fresh coat. The furniture is all very old and dated, but perfectly functional. The beds were comfortable enough, but the pillows need an update. There was a refrigerator, microwave, coffee machine, hair dryer, iron, and ironing board which was helpful. The bathroom was clean and came with soap, shampoo, and conditioner, but it was a small stand-up shower, not a...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Why should I book my Traverse City holiday with Expedia?
With exceptional-value airfares, accommodation and car hire options all in one convenient place, Expedia makes planning your Traverse City holiday a piece of cake. Moreover, we can help you bundle your bookings into a package holiday so you can get even more savings. Pick from fabulous properties, add your flights and/or a hire car (and maybe also some exciting activities!) and land unbeatable prices. Need to change your plans? Expedia has a flexible cancellation policy for many bookings. To discover more, visit our Customer Service Portal link.
When is the best time of year to holiday in Traverse City?
To enjoy the energy of peak season, pack your bags for March, May and August. October, November and December are generally quieter and a smart idea if you'd rather escape the crowds. Organise your trip to Traverse City according to what kind of holiday you're looking for. January is the coolest time of year, when daytime temperatures average -5ºC. In July, the warmest month, expect temperatures of around 20ºC during the day.
What are the top hotels for my holiday in Traverse City?
Bundle your bookings with Expedia to save on your next big adventure. With more than 400 air carriers and 321,000 hotel options across the globe, your Traverse City holiday can be tailored exactly to suit your budget. With all that extra money, why not add one or more awesome activities and tours? It's an easy way to unlock even more discounts. Your dream getaway to Traverse City is much closer than you thought! Learn more about how you can save money on your holiday when you combine your hotel and flight bookings with Expedia.
What is the best area to stay in when on holiday in Traverse City?
A getaway in Traverse City isn't complete without seeing Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Why not stay near this great tourist attraction?
Do I need a visa for my Traverse City holiday?
Research the latest information on official government websites. Your nationality and whether you're travelling for work or pleasure will determine if you need a visa for Traverse City. Make yourself familiar with the application process, including any required documentation, turnaround times and fees. Submit your application well in advance to allow sufficient time for processing. Some visas may take many weeks or even months to obtain, depending on the country.
What should I wear on my Traverse City holiday?
Do some research into the sorts of clothing people in Traverse City wear, and maybe even look up style blogs for some fashion inspiration. Aim to create a versatile wardrobe with pieces that work for your destination and show off your unique sense of style. Be sure to look at the weather forecast so you can pack accordingly. The warmest time of year in Traverse City is July, with average daytime temperatures of 20ºC. If you're travelling in the coolest month of January, the mercury hovers around -5ºC during the day.
What does an Expedia Traverse City holiday include?
That's up to you. Simply choose from a variety of Traverse City bundles, such as a flight, hotel and hire car. You can also book a flight with a hotel, or a car hire with a flight. Once you've made your booking, add on the fun stuff like experiences and activities. Whatever your perfect Traverse City holiday looks like, you'll save! Expedia features many properties, with the most sought after in Traverse City including private holiday homes and condos. With Expedia, you'll always have the freedom and flexibility to tailor your holiday however you like.
Does Expedia offer Book Now, Pay Later Traverse City holidays?
Expedia has partnered with online lender Klarna to make your next getaway easier on your bank balance. Paying by instalment means you can spread the costs of your next big holiday, leaving you with more money to spend while you're travelling. Klarna has several payment plans to choose from, so you're sure to find one that fits your budget. Take a look at these flexible payment options:
Pay monthly holidays: Klarna offers the ability to pay in multiple instalments that fit all budgets, so you can jet away on that well-deserved holiday sooner.
No-deposit holidays: Clicking the "book now" button is easier with this payment option. With no deposit required for your escape, you can Book Now, Pay Later and start packing your bags.
Can I choose my airline with a Traverse City Expedia holiday?
Definitely. Expedia has more than 400 partner airlines to pick from all over the world. With such a big range of choices, finding the right carrier to whisk you away to Traverse City will be easy.
Traverse City offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for a romantic getaway. Enjoy various activities such as water adventures, sightseeing, and cherry tours. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Tart Trail and visit local ski resorts for some winter fun. With its charming atmosphere and stunning landscapes, Traverse City is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Shopping
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons offers a unique shopping experience with its blend of entertainment and local businesses. For a larger selection, the Grand Traverse Mall features various shops and family-friendly options. If you're up for a drive, consider exploring nearby markets for more unique souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience the thrill of sports at Turtle Creek Stadium, where you can enjoy various events in a vibrant atmosphere. For a unique outing, head to Centre Ice Arena for ice skating, blending adventure and entertainment. Finally, discover family fun at Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, featuring whimsical courses.
Adventure
The Great Wolf Lodge Water Park offers thrilling water rides and family-friendly activities, perfect for all ages. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Mt. Holiday Ski Area provides excellent skiing and a lively atmosphere. Crystal Mountain, located 40.2km from Traverse City, boasts stunning slopes and outdoor adventures.
Nightlife
Traverse City's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of pubs and live music venues. Visit The Filling Station Microbrewery for local brews and head to the City Opera House for captivating performances. Don't miss the rooftop bar at The Cherry Tree Inn for stunning views and cocktails.
Find the best attractions in Traverse City
Traverse City, Michigan, is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. Renowned for its picturesque lakes, sandy beaches, and charming streets, the area offers numerous attractions, including Traverse City State Park and the vibrant downtown. Whether you're looking to explore the scenic beauty or unwind by the water, Traverse City promises a delightful experience for every visitor.
Front Street: Stroll along Front Street, the vibrant heart of Traverse City, where you can explore charming shops, delightful cafes, and local art galleries. The lively atmosphere is perfect for soaking in the city's culture, especially during local events and festivals.
Traverse City Beach: Enjoy the sun at Traverse City Beach, a picturesque spot ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The sandy shores and clear waters create a relaxing environment, making it perfect for families and beach lovers alike.
Traverse City State Park: Experience adventure at Traverse City State Park, where you can hike scenic trails, enjoy birdwatching, or simply immerse yourself in nature. With its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts.
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.
Tips to save on your trip to Traverse City
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically March and December to January) for more affordable package holidays to Traverse City.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.