Front Street is an entirely walkable stretch of downtown Traverse City with scenic views of the Boardman River, wide sidewalks with benches and shade trees, and 19th-century Victorian storefronts. This walkway blends history and modern charm alongside the scenic Boardman River. The city’s highest density of businesses, numerous festivals, and special events throughout the year attract thousands of visitors annually. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy coffee shop, unique boutiques, or all things cherry, Front Street has it all.
Having explored this lively street myself, I’m excited to share my top recommendations with you. From great eats to unique shops, this guide will help you make the most of your time. Let’s discover the best of Front Street together!
Top Attractions in Front Street Traverse City
Outpost Traverse City
There’s no better way to kick off the Front Street, Traverse City adventure than getting a caffeine fix at Outpost. It’s an independent café and coffeehouse celebrated for its organic coffee and espresso. Indulge in delectable freshly baked bread, delightful pastries, and convenient grab-and-go sandwiches. For those who appreciate local fare, savor their selection of microbrews and regional wines, all in a laid-back and inviting setting.
Doug Murdick’s Fudge
Strolling down Front Street, you can’t resist popping into Doug Murdick’s Fudge. Witness the fudge-making process right before your eyes as the delightful chocolate scent captures your senses. You’ll be spoilt for choice with their diverse selection of fudge, brittle, clusters, bark, and pretzels and an abundance of delicious flavors to explore, including double chocolate, maple walnut, and peanut butter.
And don’t forget about the beautiful gift boxes that will make the perfect treat for your loved ones.
Cherry Republic
Although the Cherry Republic has a Flagship store on Front Street, Glen Arbor (about an hour away) reigns as the birthplace of this company. It’s a nature lover’s paradise among sparkling lakes, deep forests, and the abundant cherry orchards of Leelanau County. Crooked pathways meandering under cherry trees and through cheerful perennial gardens lead you to The Great Hall. Here, you can shop from 200+ cherry products, including coffee, ice cream, and pie.
Across the path from The Great Hall is The Winery, where you can enjoy wine tastings. At Cherry Public House onsite, your whole family can enjoy inventive cherry-inspired lunch and dinner selections, 12 craft beers on tap, freshly baked pie, homemade cherry ice cream, and shareable desserts — all cherry, of course!
Peace, Love, and Little Donuts of Traverse City
Peace, Love, and Little Donuts is the best spot to satisfy your sugar cravings at. With a wide range of options, including Groovy, Far Out, and Funkadelic donuts, boasting over 50 delectable flavors and imaginative toppings, this place is a haven for treat lovers of all ages. They even have gluten-free options to cater to everyone.
Penny Lane
If you love thrifting, Penny Lane is the place for you. It’s not just a store – it’s an experience. You can rent a booth and display your apparel, shoes, household products, and unique objects. They’ll take care of all the transactions for you. Plus, with a fair 65/35 split, it’s the perfect place to uncover hidden gems or showcase/sell your own treasures.
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The Little Fleet
This cute food truck park in Traverse City is gaining a well-deserved reputation as one of the top places to eat in the area. Why? Besides serving exceptional pizzas, they have a fully stocked bar offering delicious cocktails, hand-crafted drinks, natural wines, and local craft beers. Plus, there’s plenty of outdoor and indoor seating, making it the perfect place to savor various delicious cuisines and have a great time with friends on a relaxed evening.
Espresso Bay
Another coffee lover’s paradise on Front Street is Espresso Bay. They meticulously roast small batches of coffee on-site, guaranteeing the freshest brew using beans from across the globe. In addition to an array of coffees, they also offer delightful mochas, lattes, smoothies, and gelato.
Don’t miss out on their remarkable signature drink, the Golden Espresso (TM) – it’s velvety, sumptuously smooth, and boasts a captivating golden hue as it pours out of the machine.
Grand Traverse Pie Company
Grand Traverse Pie Company takes great pride in crafting each pie by hand and baking it slowly until it is just right. From scrumptious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options to refreshing salads, delectable sandwiches, and mouthwatering quiches and pot pies, every dish is prepared with love using fresh, locally sourced, high-quality ingredients.
Whether you want to savor your meal in the cozy ambiance of our welcoming locations or take it with you on the go, we’ve got you covered.
Boardman River Walk
The Boardman River Walk offers mesmerizing views of the river. It creates the ideal setting for a peaceful walk or solitude amidst nature’s splendors. The expensive 24-mile Boardman/Ottaway River Trail features 7 miles of single-track trail that links Mayfield Pond Park to the North Country Trail.
It’s a haven for outdoor activities such as bike camping, trail running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, bird watching, photography, and wildlife study. The trail treats visitors to sparkling lakes, meandering rivers, charming boardwalks, picturesque bridges, lush forests, and abundant wildlife, ensuring an unforgettable outdoor experience.
State Theatre
Finish off your time here with a movie at the State Theatre. Every Saturday at 10 am, they screen family-friendly films for just $1 per ticket and have budget-friendly snacks for kids and adults.
Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour Traverse City
Uniquely explore Traverse City with a Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour. This guided pedicab tour is one of the most fun, accessible, and speedy ways to see the top 5 sights of the city. It covers the Downtown Area, The Warehouse District, The GT Commons area, The Open Space & Clinch Park/Marina area, and Old Town, while also providing information about the town’s history and hidden gems.
Experience the city’s top attractions in record time. You’ll enjoy a personalized adventure through diverse neighborhoods while diving into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
More Things To Do in Traverse City Michigan
Looking for more adventures in Traverse City, Michigan? From wine tasting at local vineyards to relaxing on beautiful Lake Michigan beaches, there’s so much to see and do! Click the link below to explore even more exciting things to do and plan your perfect trip!
Read More: Best Things To Do in Traverse City MI
Front Street Traverse City Guide: FAQs
What is the most popular street in Traverse City?
The most popular street in Traverse City is Front Street. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, with a wide range of shops, restaurants, and local attractions, making it a central hub for both visitors and locals.
Why is Traverse City famous?
Traverse City is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan and its abundant cherry orchards, earning it the title “Cherry Capital of the World.” The place is renowned for its vibrant downtown area, excellent wineries, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Its proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also makes it a popular destination for relaxation and adventure.
Is downtown Traverse City walkable?
Yes, downtown Traverse City is entirely walkable. With its wide, 12-to-14-foot sidewalks and proximity to shops, restaurants, and attractions, it’s easy to explore the area on foot.
Front Street Traverse City Guide: Final Thoughts
One of the best things about Front Street is its walkability. Visitors don’t need to stress about finding parking or shuttling from one spot to another. If you love exploring vibrant streets dotted with various attractions, you’re in for a treat. Everything you want to see and do here is just a short walk away. From quaint coffee shops and local boutiques to historic storefronts and scenic river views, Front Street offers an irresistible mix that delights every visitor.
Last Updated 4 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: August 12, 2024
