We traded the sweltering heat of the South for the refreshing breeze of Traverse City, Michigan. To my surprise, the weather was delightful, and the scenery looked like it was plucked straight from a storybook. Picturesque areas filled with charming, hallmark-style buildings, breathtaking vineyards, and vibrant lavender fields surrounded crystal-clear waters.
In addition to its beauty, there are countless things to do in Traverse City, Michigan, in the summer—from hiking at Sleeping Bear Dunes to exhilarating slide races and beyond. Traverse City has something truly unique for everyone! Here are our top picks for the ultimate Summer experience in Traverse City, MI!
Thank you so much Traverse City, Michigan for sponsoring this blog post. As always all opinions are my own.
Visiting Traverse City, MI in the Summer
Traverse City, Michigan, is a beautiful destination, especially during July and August when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities making it one of the best times to visit for some reasons including beaches, wineries, cherries, and lavender! During Summer you get to experience all of these in full bloom!
Non-stop Flights to Traverse City From Texas (And More)
One of the best things about visiting Traverse City in the summer is the abundance of non-stop flights from over 20 different destinations including Houston, Dallas, Chicago, Denver and more. It’s enough non-stop flights to easily get there, but not so many that the destination isn’t overly packed with tourists – the perfect balance.
Tips for Visiting Traverse City, MI in Summer
Make sure to plan your transportation in advance and decide if you need a vehicle or prefer to use their public transportation, BATA. Ride shares like Lyft and Uber are very rare here.
Things To Do in Summer in Traverse City Michigan
Take a Ride on A Tall Ship Schooner Manitou
One of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Traverse City is the opportunity to take a sunset sail on a traditional tall ship. The Schooner Manitou, a replica of an 1800s “coasting cargo” and the largest tall ship in Michigan. You can bring a light meal or snack and they sell alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks on board.
We loved the opportunity to sit back and relax or get more involved by assisting in the hoisting of the sails and even steering the tall ship! P.S. If you’ve ever wanted a job on a boat, we learned you can check out Tall Ships America to get training and/or on the job training!
Explore Old Mission Peninsula
Stretching between East and West Grand Traverse Bays, the Old Mission Peninsula offers a scenic summer drive with water views on both sides, lush vineyards, and stunning panoramas at every turn. There are so many things to do in the Summer like:
Picking Cherries
With u-pick farms like Third Coast Fruit Co, you can grab yourself a basket and pick cherries to your heart’s content while snacking on them along the way.
See the Lavender
In the Summer, Lavender is plentiful in the Old Mission Peninsula. Check out Lightwell Lavender and the Secret Gardens at Brys Estate for lavender picking or a refreshing lavender picnic.
Visit the Wineries
While the Traverse City area has several different wine regions, I think that the Old Mission peninsula might just be the most beautiful! Places like Bonobo where you can sit on the upper deck and out to the vines and water really make it a special area!
Traverse City’s Top Winery Tours
Old Mission Lighthouse
There is something so peaceful and relaxing about watching the waves crash into the shore, especially as you watch it from a lighthouse. P.S. if you want some clear water make sure to pack a swimsuit (I’ll talk more about this below).
More Things To Do in Old Mission Peninsula
Looking for even more fun on Old Mission Peninsula? From hidden gems to local favorites, there’s plenty more to explore! Click to discover more exciting things to do and make your trip unforgettable.
Read More: The Perfect Day Trip to Old Mission Peninsula
Explore the Local Shops Front Street District
In the summer, the Front Street District in Traverse City comes alive with its unique 19th century Victoria storefronts all with an artistic flair, cute design, and a bit of cherry charm! If you have a dog, you’ll be happy to see all the water bowls outside the shops and dog treats available. Some of the top things to do and see on Front Street include:
- Exploring cherry goods at Cherry Republic
- Seeing them make fudge and getting cherry fudge at Doug Murdick’s family run business
- Stocking up on miniature donuts at Peace, Love, and Little Donuts
- Snagging up a good thrifty find at Penny Lane
- Catching a show or taking a cute pic at the State Theatre
- Grabbing a mini cherry pie to go Grand Traverse Pie Company
Go Swimming in Some Crystal Clear Water
Traverse City boasts some of the most pristine waters in Michigan, making it an ideal swimming destination for summer. As a smaller destination with hundreds of miles of shoreline, you can enjoy it without huge crowds!
Mission Point Peninsula was my favorite place to swim. Since it’s sandwiched between two arms of the Grand Traverse Bay with land on either side. With little boat traffic, the water here is some of the calmest I’ve seen. The water is also incredibly shallow. I kept walking out and walking out and it never came past my upper thigh! Parts of the ground are rocky and other parts of it are sandy, so I do recommend having water shoes.
Moomers: One of the Top 10 Ice Cream Parlors in the US
Consistently ranked as one of the top ten ice cream parlors in the US, it almost feels wrong to visit Traverse City and not visit Moomers. Here at this family owned and operated joint, you can enjoy ice cream with dairy from nearby dairy farms and unique flavors while overlooking a pasture to see the cows roaming around.
You’ve got your typical favorites, (of course), some cherry options like their extra popular cherries moobilee, and unique options like carrot cake, strawberry cheesecake and more. If you can’t decide what to order, go for the taster flight or if you’re really adventurous try the Cow-a-bunga, a massive ice cream feast.
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Wheels on Rails: Pedal on a Railroad
Journey along the scenic trails of the old railroad tracks, providing a blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a unique and active way to see a different side of Traverse City without being overly tiresome. You’ll learn about the area and railroad history and maybe spot some wildlife!
Stroll Through an Old Asylum at Grand Traverse Commons
Grand Traverse Commons was once the Traverse City State Hospital, dating back to the 1800s. This complex has been repurposed so that people can explore the restored buildings and grounds, which house a variety of shops, restaurants, and residential units. Guided tours are available to delve into the fascinating history of the asylum, including its architecture and the stories of those who once lived there.
Wander through Scenic Suttons Bay
Suttons Bay offers a charming mix of outdoor activities like exploring its waterfront for swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the serene waters of Lake Michigan. It’s also perfect for strolling along the scenic shoreline.The area is home to several vineyards, local galleries, and artisan shops.
Enjoy Some Amazing Traverse City Day Trips
If you want to go out a little further, check out some of these fun spots!
- Leland Historic Fishtown – Explore quaint fishing shanties in a place that still holds onto preserved history.
- Cherry Republic Glen Arbor – While there’s the downtown Cherry Republic, the one in Glen Arbor is a multi building spot with a restaurant featuring their cherry products and gorgeous gardens.
- Hike at Sleeping Bear Dunes – Hike towering sand dunes and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
- Crystal Mountain – Cruise down a 1,600 foot track with the Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide and many other Summer adventure activities.
Enjoy the Coffee Scene
Traverse City is home to some of the cute coffee shops with a lot of personality. You’ve got Outpost for an aesthetic coffee shop with organic espresso and pours (grab a sandwich to go on one of those day trips. If you want to go full out cherry, get the cherry blossom ice foam cold brew at Espresso Bay. Stop at Hexenbelle for lattes infused with Middle Eastern ingredients like rose, Black cardamom, and saffron.
Grab some Italian sandwiches from Folgarelli’s
With so much time on the go in Traverse City, we didn’t have much time to sit down to eat. Folgarelli’s Italian shop was perfect for on the go sandwiches. Having been around since 1913, it is one of the oldest family-owned markets. Be warned though, their list of sandwiches is almost too long to choose! I wanted to try so many!
Trip Worthy Tours
For even more unique experiences in Traverse City including tours perfect if you want to meet other people, opt to try something like the guided wine tours to Old Mission Peninsula or Leelanua, a scavenger hunt to learn more about the city, a Lake Leelanua tour, and so much more!
Traverse City’s Guided Wine Tours
Summer Activities in Traverse City MI: FAQs
Why is Traverse City famous?
Traverse City is famous for several reasons:
- Cherry Orchards: Known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” Traverse City is celebrated for its abundant cherry production and the annual National Cherry Festival.
- Beautiful Scenery: The city boasts stunning natural beauty with picturesque lakes, beaches, and rolling hills, particularly around Grand Traverse Bay and the surrounding wine country.
- Wine Country: Traverse City is a key player in Michigan’s wine industry, featuring numerous vineyards and wineries that produce award-winning wines.
- Outdoor Activities: The area offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking trails to water sports and skiing in nearby resorts.
- Historic Sites: The city has rich historical sites, including the Traverse City State Hospital and the charming downtown area with historic architecture.
- Cultural Events: Traverse City hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals, such as the Traverse City Film Festival, attracting visitors from all over.
- Art and Craft Scene: The city has a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries, craft breweries, and artisanal shops.
These features combine to make Traverse City a popular and beloved destination in Michigan.
What is the best time of year to visit Traverse City?
The best time to visit Traverse City depends on what you’re looking to experience:
- Summer (June to August): Ideal for enjoying the city’s beaches, boating, and outdoor festivals. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring local vineyards and attending events like the National Cherry Festival.
- Fall (September to November): A fantastic time for scenic drives and enjoying the fall foliage. It’s also the harvest season, so you can experience wine tastings during the grape harvest and visit local farms.
- Winter (December to February): Great for winter sports enthusiasts. Traverse City offers skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The snowy landscape creates a cozy, picturesque setting, and the winter festivals add to the charm.
- Spring (March to May): A lovely time to visit for milder weather and fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms and the beginning of outdoor activities, making it a great time for hiking and exploring.
Each season offers its own unique charm, so the best time to visit really depends on your preferences for activities and weather.
Is Traverse City worth visiting?
Absolutely, Traverse City is worth visiting! Located in northern Michigan, it offers a charming mix of natural beauty and vibrant local culture. You can enjoy stunning beaches along Lake Michigan, explore the scenic vineyards and wineries in the surrounding area, and experience a bustling downtown with unique shops, restaurants, and festivals. The nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is also a highlight, with its impressive sand dunes and picturesque views. Whether you’re into outdoor activities, good food, or just relaxing by the water, Traverse City has a lot to offer.
Final Thoughts on a Summer Spent in Traverse City
Traverse City truly felt like a hidden gem that truly shines during the summer months. I kept thinking that in order to see such gorgeous vineyards, lavender and crystal clear water I had to take an international trip to the likes of France, Italy, or the Caribbean. Instead, I found a place less than a 3 hour flight from Texas that gave me all of that in one place with no jet lag and so much to offer.
One day I’m living a picturesque fairytale involving luscious vineyards, vibrant lavender, and sumptuous cherries I picked with my hands. Then the next day I’m climbing up dunes, riding a bike on a railroad, and going on a treasure hunt for the clearest blue water to swim in. Traverse City really does have it all!
Last Updated 4 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: August 6, 2024
