Traverse City Travel Blog

It seems like we just turned the calendar from June to July, and now we’ve changed it again to August. In just a few short weeks it will be fall, believe it or not.

As awesome as autumn is, why does summer have to go by so fast? Unfortunately, there is no pause button on life. But there is still time to slow down and soak up summer in northern Michigan before it’s too late. 

“She’s beautiful, isn’t she?” That statement from the Executive Director of Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) Fred Sitkins marked the community welcome of a new three-masted schooner that will ply the Great Lakes based out of Suttons Bay. 

If you’re seeking a Michigan destination where you can really appreciate and contribute to the conservation of our state’s natural beauty, it’s hard not to think of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The Traverse City-area treasure offers 70,000 glorious acres of trails and beaches spread along 65 miles of spectacular shoreline.  

Increased traffic could be the number-one complaint faced by Traverse City Tourism (TCT) in the summer according to Trevor Tkach, President of TCT. He made the observation during a monthly radio show on WTCM AM called “The Road Best Traveled.” But, he added, there are excellent alternatives to driving for both local residents and visitors that are available during the National Cherry Festival and all summer long.

As summer heats up and events like the National Cherry Festival bring more people to the area, traffic will continue to increase, slowing down commute times. If you are looking to avoid the traffic this summer, here are some viable alternative modes of transportation. 

“This is a big deal for you guys, but it’s a big deal for us as well,” said Major Lauren Schlichting, pilot of the No.4 jet for the Air Force Thunderbirds. She made her remarks having just arrived from Iowa during her 16th stop on a 33-show schedule planned for the year. 

Shortly after setting sail the young lady serving as “Water Protector” passed around a ceremonial copper pail with cool, clear water. Passengers and crew dipped their hands into the water and that simple act forever changed the makeup of the liquid. Eventually, that water would be poured back into Grand Traverse Bay and symbolically altered the makeup of the Bay. The water became a part of everyone onboard the ship. 

Here is one heck of a way to celebrate the unofficial end of summer with a concert that will rock your world. 

As you drive along the roads of northern Michigan, you’re taken back in time to when the first orchards were planted in 1852. The Grand Traverse Region is the world's largest producer of tart cherries. Every year white blossoms paint the countryside and leave us wishing they lasted longer. When visiting Traverse City, you are immersed in our vibrant cherry culture! 

In Traverse City, it’s easy to support sustainable food options. From local and ethical sourcing of ingredients to environmentally conscious farming practices, to commitments to livable wages and just hiring practices, food businesses throughout the region are working hard to make our food community a long-lasting success. How can you take part? Head to events and workshops in the area that allow proud local food makers, farmers, and environmentalists to explain why they do what they do!