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The snowy town in northwest Michigan celebrates the release of  12 Strong , a film based on  New York Times  bestselling non-fiction book  Horse Soldiers  written by Traverse City native Doug Stanton.

Here in Traverse City, we believe in cocoa-comas. We appreciate a good deal on snow tires and know that a quality coat is one that covers all your biscuits. Around these parts, we don’t just tolerate the snow, we embrace it. And when we literally cannot anymore…welp, we go to the movies.

If you are considering a visit to Traverse City then you are probably aware of the great natural beauty of this wonderful part of the world. You may also know about the wineries, the eateries, and the year-round outdoor activities. What you might be surprised to learn is that our small Midwestern city also has a full symphony orchestra, the Traverse Symphony Orchestra.

It's true, Traverse City is definitely off the beaten path. But when it comes to the arts, we're right in the thick of things!

It’s always good to be in good company. Once again, Traverse City is being listed as one of the places you ought to see before you die – and so have our neighbors on the Leelanau Peninsula.

Where do you find inspiration in the Traverse City Area? Local painter Adam VanHouten shares a few of his favorite locations that have inspired his Explore Traverse City Plein Air Painting Project. 

The “From the Top” series features performances by eleven popular local musicians, set against the blue water of West Grand Traverse Bay . Featured artists include the Hacky Turtles (the band that previously recorded Take Me There , Traverse City's Theme Song), Rob & Jessica Bolin, Nik Carmen, Jetty Rae, The Accidentals, O Brother Big Sister, Kellerville, Levi Britton, the Jimmy Olson Trio, Benjaman James, and Chloe Kime. 

It’s easy to get overwhelmed on vacation, and even easier to spend more money than you have. Luckily, Traverse City has plenty of options for families on a budget – and we’ve found the most fun, easy, and beautiful ways for you to enjoy one of the best cities America has to offer. 

You may already have seen them while walking or driving through Downtown Traverse City , spread across the otherwise blank walls of banks, stores and other buildings. A massive portrait of Ernest

  Let’s get this said at the outset: When it comes to travel, I’m not a big fan of itineraries, bucket lists or checklists of any kind. Vacation should be relaxing.