As someone who’s traveled all across Michigan, few places match the natural beauty and relaxed energy of Traverse City. Nestled at the base of Grand Traverse Bay and surrounded by cherry orchards, vineyards, forest trails, and glacier-carved lakes, this lakeside town is a dream come true for outdoor lovers. I’ve visited multiple times—solo, with friends, and even with family—and I always come back feeling refreshed and reconnected to nature.
If you’ve only got one day to spend here, don’t worry—you can still pack in an unforgettable experience. This guide is designed to help you do just that. It blends adventure, local eats, and peaceful scenery into a well-paced itinerary that works for all kinds of travelers.
Why Traverse City is a Must-Visit for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Definition List
Grand Traverse Bay
A protected arm of Lake Michigan that offers clear, calm waters for paddling, boating, and shoreline walks.
Leelanau Trail
A 17-mile paved bike path that connects Traverse City to Suttons Bay through vineyards, orchards, and scenic backcountry.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
A national lakeshore with towering dunes, hiking trails, and jaw-dropping lake views—just 30 minutes west of town.
TART Trail Network
A system of paved and gravel trails perfect for biking, walking, or jogging, with easy downtown access.
Boardman River
A gentle, winding river that offers peaceful kayaking and paddleboarding options right in the heart of the city.
Start the Morning with a Scenic Ride on the Leelanau Trail
If you ask me, there’s no better way to begin your Traverse City adventure than by renting a bike and coasting north on the Leelanau Trail. I started from the trailhead just outside town, and within minutes I was surrounded by green vineyards and fields bursting with wildflowers. It’s a flat and leisurely ride, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed pace.
What You’ll Experience
● Long stretches of peaceful countryside
● Frequent lookout spots over Grand Traverse Bay
● Roadside farm stands and winery detours
● Wildlife sightings—deer, foxes, and songbirds are common
Traveler Tip
Start early, around 8 AM, to enjoy the trail before it heats up. Several rental shops downtown offer bikes by the hour or day.
Prefer the Forest and Dunes? Try Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
On another visit, I opted for a drive out to the Sleeping Bear Dunes and biked the Heritage Trail. It runs through forests, dunes, and lakeshore villages. Compared to Leelanau, this trail has more varied elevation and more dramatic terrain.
What Makes it Special
● Access to Dune Climb, Glen Haven, and scenic overlooks
● Wide paved path suitable for families
● Incredible views of Lake Michigan from multiple points
● Wildlife-rich sections through dense woodland
Traveler Tip
Park at the Dune Climb lot for easiest access to both the trail and the main dune. Don’t forget your water bottle—the climbs are no joke.
Take a Mid-Morning Paddle on Boardman River
After biking, I usually grab a quick snack downtown and then head to the river. Renting a kayak or paddleboard along the Boardman River offers a peaceful way to cool off. The water is clear and calm, and the tree canopy overhead makes the whole experience feel shaded and serene.
What You’ll See on the River
● Local wildlife like ducks, herons, and maybe a bald eagle
● Historic bridges and quiet canal neighborhoods
● Calm stretches ideal for first-timers or kids
● Scenic bends that feel completely remote
Traveler Tip
The best time to paddle is before noon—after that, the water gets a bit busier with recreational boaters.
Or Visit Torch Lake for a Shallow Swim in Caribbean Waters
Torch Lake is about 35–40 minutes northeast of Traverse City and worth every minute of the drive. I’ve been multiple times, and the clarity of the water and white sand bottom still amaze me. It genuinely feels like a tropical escape in Northern Michigan.
Highlights of Torch Lake
● Shallow, walkable sandbar stretches for hundreds of feet
● Ideal for swimming, floating, and picnicking
● Public access points are limited—arrive early
● Boats are common, but swimmers have plenty of space
Traveler Tip
Bring water shoes—some areas have rocky entries. Also, there are no restrooms at some public points, so plan accordingly.
Fuel Up with Farm-to-Table Food in the Commons
By now, you’ll have worked up a serious appetite. One of my go-to spots for lunch is The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. This historic complex used to be a state hospital, but today it’s filled with cafés, markets, and small shops.
What to Eat
● Gourmet grilled cheese or charcuterie boards at Trattoria Stella
● Local hard cider or white wine at Left Foot Charley
● Artisan sandwiches and salads from Pleasanton Bakery
● Coffee, kombucha, and smoothies for a midday energy boost
Traveler Tip
Sit on the outdoor patio surrounded by ivy-covered brick buildings—it’s shaded, relaxing, and full of character.
Sample Locally Grown Cherries and Explore Farm Markets
No visit to Traverse City feels complete without tasting its iconic fruit—the tart cherry. I always make time for Gallagher’s Farm Market during cherry season. The u-pick experience is fun, the produce is unbeatable, and the cherry salsa? Absolutely addictive.
What You Can Expect
● Pick-your-own tart cherries (usually July)
● Fresh-baked pies, jams, dried fruit, and cherry snacks
● Local veggies, corn, and seasonal pumpkins in fall
● Farm animals and sunflower patches (great for photos)
Traveler Tip
Bring a cooler so your cherries and produce survive the rest of your road trip.
Head to The Little Fleet for Food Truck Vibes
If you’re in Traverse City during the warmer months, you can’t skip The Little Fleet. This outdoor courtyard is lined with ever-rotating food trucks, and there’s always something delicious no matter your diet or craving.
I’ve grabbed everything here from whitefish tacos to Thai noodles and vegan wraps, and it never disappoints.
Why It’s Worth It
● Outdoor seating with casual picnic-style tables
● A full bar offering local cocktails and draft beer
● Seasonal trucks rotate weekly for variety
● Family-friendly and dog-friendly
Traveler Tip
It gets busy by 6 PM—come slightly earlier or plan to hang out with a drink while waiting for food.
Catch Golden Hour at Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
When I need to reset or reflect, I head west to the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The 7.4-mile loop has some of the most spectacular views I’ve seen in the Midwest. The best time to go is late afternoon, as the setting sun turns Lake Michigan a surreal mix of gold and silver.
Stops to Prioritize
● Overlook #9 – Panoramic views of dunes dropping into the lake
● Overlook #3 – Inland lake and forest vistas
● Covered bridge entry adds to the charm
Traveler Tip
Bring a windbreaker. It gets chilly and breezy, even in July. Also, skip flip-flops—there’s sand, but also wooden steps and gravel.
Wind Down with Craft Beers or Local Wine
After a full day outdoors, Traverse City’s beverage scene is the perfect way to unwind. I’ve spent many evenings sipping chilled rosé at Bonobo Winery or tasting flights of farmhouse ales at Hop Lot Brewing in nearby Suttons Bay. Whether you prefer wine or beer, there’s no shortage of options with a view.
Top Picks for Craft Beverages
● Bonobo Winery – Intimate setting with views over East Bay
● Chateau Chantal – Great for first-timers with wide tasting menu
● Hop Lot Brewing Co. – Outdoor fire pits and a wooded beer garden
● The Filling Station – Pizza and microbrews in a renovated train depot
● Right Brain Brewery – Funky, creative flavors in an arcade setting
Traveler Tip
Most wineries and breweries allow outside food or have their own small menus. Bring snacks or charcuterie for a budget-friendly happy hour.
Explore the Waterfront Pathways Around Clinch Park
If you’re staying downtown or want a calm activity before sunset, stroll along the paved waterfront trails starting at Clinch Park. I usually start near the marina and follow the path past paddleboard rental shops, food stands, and shaded benches along West Bay.
Features Along the Path
● Kayak and SUP rentals at Paddle TC
● Bike-friendly, wheelchair-accessible route
● Access to Clinch Park Beach with restrooms and picnic tables
● Beautiful marina views and sailboats in summer
Traveler Tip
Catch the local street performers on weekends. There’s often live music or jugglers near the splash pad and visitor center.
Traverse City Seasonal Activity Table
| Season | Temperature Range | Best Activities | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | 45–65°F | Hiking, wildflower photography, food tours | Fewer tourists, ideal for budget stays |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 70–85°F | Biking, kayaking, beach days, cherry picking | Peak season—book accommodations in advance |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | 50–70°F | Wine tasting, foliage drives, harvest festivals | Best time for color lovers and fewer crowds |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | 20–35°F | Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, brewery visits | Cozy indoor spots + snow sports at Hickory Hills |
Make Time for a Sweet Stop at Moomers Ice Cream
If you ask any local where to get the best ice cream in Traverse City, the answer will almost always be Moomers. I drove a few miles out of town just to get there, and it was absolutely worth it.
This family-run creamery sits on a working dairy farm, and their outdoor seating area looks directly into a pasture of grazing cows. It’s the kind of place where you order a flight of five mini-scoops and realize you love all five.
Best Flavors to Try
● Cherries Moobilee – Traverse City’s cherry pride in a scoop
● Cow Tracks – Peanut butter, fudge, and chocolate chunks
● Blue Moo – Kid-favorite, bright blue marshmallow delight
● Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake – Seasonal and unforgettable
Traveler Tip
Lines get long in the evening—go mid-afternoon or around lunchtime for a quieter experience.
Customize Your Day Based on the Season
One thing I love about Traverse City is how different each season feels. I’ve been here in all four—and while summer gets the glory, fall and spring are equally magical. Winter too, if you’re willing to bundle up.
Spring Highlights
● Hike Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area and spot wildflowers
● Enjoy fewer crowds and quiet winery experiences
● Catch trout fishing on Boardman River
Summer Musts
● Swim in West Bay or paddle Boardman Lake
● Go cherry picking and attend the National Cherry Festival
● Sunset at Sleeping Bear Overlook
Fall Favorites
● Wine harvest events on Old Mission Peninsula
● Apple picking at Jacob’s Farm
● Scenic drives with fiery fall colors
Winter Ideas
● Cross-country skiing at Hickory Hills
● Snowshoeing on the TART Trail
● Cozy evenings at The Workshop Brewing Company
Final Travel Tips for an Amazing Traverse City Day Trip
● Start early. Many activities (like kayaking or biking) are best before the afternoon heat or crowds arrive.
● Pack layers. Northern Michigan’s weather shifts quickly—even in summer.
● Stay flexible. There are dozens of micro-adventures around every corner; don’t rush your itinerary.
● Explore nearby towns. Suttons Bay, Glen Arbor, and Elk Rapids are all worth the short drive.
● Use local maps and resources. Most visitor centers provide up-to-date trail conditions, weather alerts, and food guides.
