Traverse City Travel Blog

Summer in Traverse City is pure magic. From sun-soaked days on the bay to late evenings painted in golden hues, it’s the season that showcases the very best of this Lake Michigan gem.

Whether you're planning your first visit or returning for your annual tradition, here are some top favorite summer adventures to make the most of your time in TC.

From Cherry Capital Airport to the Cherry Festival, Traverse City is famous for its orchards and all the bounty available to eaters. That said, snacking on a fresh, local cherry is a special experience that only happens at the peak of summer. U-Pick is offered by local farmers and allows you to fully engage in this specialty harvest in the place where cherries grow best. 

Ready to grab your bucket? Start by reading advice from local cherry producers!

If you love scouring racks for just the right denim pants or combing through shelves for a rare vintage band T-shirt, Traverse City has the store for you. Thrift shopping is a budget-friendly and sustainable way to update your closet, plus you can discover unique pieces for every season. Seek out sartorial treasures at these seven fashion-forward resale and vintage thrift shops.  

As the “Most Exciting Foodie Town” in Michigan and one of the country’s up-and-coming wine regions, the Traverse City area offers an endless buffet of delicious things to eat and drink all summer long. It only makes sense to celebrate the agricultural bounty and culinary excellence that’s so pleasing to the palates of both residents and visitors alike. 

There is a moment when the sun sets through whisps of clouds over Grand Traverse Bay, when you have a realization that you never knew the color red had so many shades. Sitting on the hilltop at Chateau Chantal, you see those colors emblazoned in the sky in front of you. It’s a moment that can never be captured through the lens of a camera. The colors will never be that vibrant. The panoramic scope will never be fully appreciated. It’s a moment that will only play out in your mind. There it will replay again, and again, and again. Those vibrant colors may lose some of their vibrancy, but the memory will leave a constant glow in your heart.

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the country, and Traverse City offers plenty of venues for “picklers” to practice, compete, and have some fun on the court.  

Whether you're a foodie, a sports enthusiast, or someone who loves unique cultural experiences, Traverse City offers a plethora of events throughout the year.

Here are eight events that should be on your 2025 calendar:

Traverse City is home to some of the most picturesque bike trails in northern Michigan. These trails wind their way through lush green forests, sparkling lakeshores, and scenic boardwalks in natural habitats. From historic trailheads to thrilling bike tours, beginner cyclists and expert riders alike

Are you ready for a dazzling display of lights, colors, and pure magic? If so, mark your calendars for the International Fireworks Championship in Traverse City on September 5th & 6th! It's not just any event; it's an event that promises to ignite your imagination and leave you in awe. Whether you're a fireworks aficionado or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, this event is perfect for everyone. 

Earth Day is a time to reflect, appreciate, and give back to the incredible natural resources that make northern Michigan so special. From the crystal-clear lakes and winding rivers to scenic trails and majestic woodlands, nature is at the heart of everything we love about this region.

It’s not just about enjoying the outdoors but also about protecting it. That includes doing our part to care for our Great Lakes, keep our waters pristine, and preserve cherished places like the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for generations to come.