Traverse City Travel Blog

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! 

The “Blue Light Special” at this shutdown K-Mart has been replaced by “the house.” There are still “buttons,” but not in the clothing department, they are on a sheet of ice. And you can still find “brooms” however, they are not in the Housewares Department but in the firm hands of players that have come for a game of curling. 

The Traverse City Curling Club is in the final stages of opening a new 28,000-square-foot Curling Center. It’s located at the old K-Mart building at Cherryland Center and features five sheets of dedicated ice. The club had been located at the Centre Ice Arena but found their ice time was too limiting. Plus the type of ice needed for curling is different from what hockey players require. 

One bite is all it takes. One bite when the red juice drips down your chin and you rotate your face so the sweet nectar doesn’t stain your shirt. Take that first bite of a northern Michigan strawberry and you will be spoiled for life. No other berry will compare. The problem is this sweet strawberry season only lasts a little over two weeks. After the harvest, you count the days until the next season starts. 

What’s it like to fly with the Blue Angels? It’s an experience that is never forgotten.

Photo credit: Crystal Mountain

Snap, crackle, pop!

“Was that your back?” my massage therapist asked in disbelief. “Yes,” came my meek, muffled reply before I slipped into a deep state of zen. 

Some days, you just want to stay inside! Maybe you just want to find that warm fire, and a friendly book. Maybe you’re looking for a great indoor adventure. There is much to enjoy indoors in Traverse City. Here are a few ideas!

If islands could talk, then Power Island would speak loudly of legends. This 200-acre island that sits north of Traverse City on West Grand Traverse Bay is currently owned by Grand Traverse County. It is a playground for swimming, hiking, boating, or just relaxing.

But there is a deep history

Photo: Noah Jurik

A one hour drive out of Traverse City will take you to one of the most breathtaking views of Lake Michigan to be found anywhere! 

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful and amazing places in the country. And it’s only a short drive from downtown Traverse City! Here are 10 ways to explore Sleeping Bear. 

(All photos courtesy of Lake Michigan Whale Migration Station. No claims are made for their accuracy.)

The volunteers at the Traverse City Visitor Center can almost always come up with advice for baffled tourists who need directions. However, one question consistently leaves them speechless.

It’s the one about whale-watching tours.