Traverse City Travel Blog

On a slightly overcast but pleasantly warm day in July, I set sail on the Inland Seas 77-foot schooner with the Inland Seas Educational Association. I arrived in Suttons Bay as a mere resident of Northern Michigan but emerged from the boat as a Great Lakes scientist.

August is National Picnic Month! At the crossroads of cuisine and the outdoors, the picnic is the perfect union of two of the best things that Traverse City has to offer. Here is a guide compiled by a local to the finest picnicking spots in the area coupled with suggestions of go-to markets and eateries to fulfill the all-important food element of your idyllic, summer picnic. 

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. 

Nothing can beat spending the week of the Fourth of July in Traverse City, thanks to the countless events that are approaching in and around the area. In fact, the real challenge will be trying to complete everything on your bucket list for America’s birthday. Let’s explore some of the Fourth of July happenings in Traverse City to celebrate our nation’s independence. Below is a list of 2022 events, while some of these may happen again in 2023, it's always best to check back for details. 

When taking a trip to Traverse City, you will find plenty of beautiful places to capture a photo. All you need is your phone in hand.

Get your camera ready. Here’s our list of the most Instagramable Spots in TC:

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. 

There is one bear where hibernation is not part of an annual hibernation ritual: the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Many people don’t realize that the National Lakeshore is open year-round. Word to the wise: if you miss a visit in winter, you are missing out on a remarkable experience. 

So many of us think of Traverse City as a warm-weather destination, a place of golden beaches, blue waters, and green forests. But here’s a little secret…winter up north is gorgeous too. You can hit the ski runs, snowshoe or hike through the woods, or just curl up with a cozy glass of wine and watch the snowfall.

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!

Burgers? Check 
Steak? Check 
Sushi? Check 
Breakfast? Check 
Brewpub? Check 
Fish? Check 
Food trucks? Check 
Bar food? Check 
Vegan? Check 
Elegant? Check 
Ethnic? Check