Winter Activities on the Traverse Wine Coast

Monday, November 13, 2023 3:00 PM by Mike Kent

The gentle rolling hills around Traverse City, carved by receding glaciers some 10,000 years ago, take on a different feel when the first snows of winter start to fall. Those slopes hug the vines that are responsible for some of the best wines of the Midwest. The Traverse Wine Coast is home to nearly 50 wineries, but the region is known for much more than wine tasting. It’s all about the experience. And in the winter that experience embraces exploration of vineyards along cross-country ski trails, snowshoe hikes, and fat tire biking.

Take a look at some of the Traverse Wine Coast experiences that welcome winter activities. 

Looking for an outdoor art experience? Head to downtown Traverse City, to embark on your mural-hunting adventure where each one tells a unique story, reflecting the artist's perspective and our local community's character.

While there are more than just these murals downtown—and far more than that around the region—we chose these classics to start your art education.

You can’t get Short’s Brewing innovations such as Pumpkincrusha on Nitro or Hot Loins aphrodisiac beer in the store. And you won’t find the Bellaire brewer’s Pistachio Cream Ale or S’more Stout at your local bar.

But you can come to taste them all this fall during Traverse City Beer Week. The annual celebration of northern Michigan brews returns Nov. 10-17 with drink specials – and special, experimental beers – at craft breweries all over the Traverse City area. 

Game Day in Traverse City

Friday, September 22, 2023 11:00 AM by Charlotte Inda

No matter what you choose, you'll find a welcoming atmosphere with great food and drinks to complement your game-watching experience. Cheers, high-fives, and groans of disappointment fill the air as you watch every exhilarating moment on the big screens. It's not just about the game; it's about the shared experience, the thrill of victory, and the camaraderie that makes watching sports here so much fun. 

The International Fireworks Championship transformed the night sky into a canvas of colors and shapes. These spectacular shows blend science, creativity, and pyrotechnic expertise to create breathtaking moments that left the audience in awe. Four teams from Germany, France, Mexico, and the USA took to the stage as spectators were treated to an unparalleled symphony of light and sound. In the end, the crowd would cast their vote for Best of Show with Germany taking home the trophy. 

Take a look at some highlights from the event! 

Headed to Traverse City this fall? Be sure to take in the local flavors while enjoying the sights. Northern Michigan offers a rich agricultural heritage to take part in, and food makers who simplify eating truly local. Use our dining decision map to find the perfect bite (or sip!) while you’re in town this harvest season: 

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. 

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