A trip to Traverse City would not be complete without a visit to one of our most exciting developments. This project is the country's largest historic preservation and adaptive reuse development.

Located just a few minutes west of Traverse City's downtown shopping area is the Village at Grand Traverse Commons -- a unique collection of dozens of Victorian-inspired buildings, on beautiful wooded grounds.

The buidings hold a unique historic significance. In 1885, the State of Michigan chose Traverse City as the site for the Northern Michigan Asylum, a hospital dedicated to the idea that fresh air and beautiful surroundings could ease the suffering of the mentally ill.

The hospital closed in 1989, but its extensive forested grounds and stately castle-like buildings have been preserved. The Commons (as it is now called) is a favorite place for walking, running, skiing and birdwatching.

Stroll these historic grounds and discover restaurants, retail shops, wineries, brick oven bakery and much more.