Paul & Diane's Favorites: TC & Beyond
Food Scene
A favorite breakfast & lunch place with a creative menu using local ingredients, always perfectly executed. Don't be in a rush … good food takes time. Located on the old State Hospital grounds, a bit hard to find so often is not as busy as places downtown.
29 paikallista suosittelee
S2S Sugar to Salt
1371 Gray DrA favorite breakfast & lunch place with a creative menu using local ingredients, always perfectly executed. Don't be in a rush … good food takes time. Located on the old State Hospital grounds, a bit hard to find so often is not as busy as places downtown.
New gluten-free bakery that somehow manages to make things that don't taste gluten-free! Full coffee bar. From here it's an easy bike or a healthy walk. Get your goods and take them around the corner to East Bay Park.
11 paikallista suosittelee
Third Coast Bakery
523 Munson AveNew gluten-free bakery that somehow manages to make things that don't taste gluten-free! Full coffee bar. From here it's an easy bike or a healthy walk. Get your goods and take them around the corner to East Bay Park.
One of the best places to eat outdoors for lunch or dinner! Right on the harbor with West Bay views from indoor and outdoor seating. Menu is simple and good, with a smattering of small plates and good wines to match. The walleye sandwich with slaw is a must for out-of-towners. You won't often find this fish on menus outside of Northern Michigan.
29 paikallista suosittelee
West End Tavern
12719 S W Bay Shore DrOne of the best places to eat outdoors for lunch or dinner! Right on the harbor with West Bay views from indoor and outdoor seating. Menu is simple and good, with a smattering of small plates and good wines to match. The walleye sandwich with slaw is a must for out-of-towners. You won't often find this fish on menus outside of Northern Michigan.
This is an old standard in TC that has always served excellent food and drinks in the heart of downtown. Their menu is creative with many vegetarian items. Huge martini menu. They typically run three specials a day, and they are usually really special! They run amazing deals in wintertime. If you're running around and just a little hungry, grab a pita platter with hummus and Jarlsberg dip!
72 paikallista suosittelee
Poppycocks
128 E Front StThis is an old standard in TC that has always served excellent food and drinks in the heart of downtown. Their menu is creative with many vegetarian items. Huge martini menu. They typically run three specials a day, and they are usually really special! They run amazing deals in wintertime. If you're running around and just a little hungry, grab a pita platter with hummus and Jarlsberg dip!
Tacos! This is the best sit-down place for tacos and margaritas. It is small, so be prepared to wait at peak times.
62 paikallista suosittelee
Mama Lu's - A Modern Day Taco Shop
149 E Front StTacos! This is the best sit-down place for tacos and margaritas. It is small, so be prepared to wait at peak times.
This is TC's famous food-truck parking lot with a bar! It is a hopping scene almost all day in the summertime. Choose from a variety of food trucks serving local favorites, Mexican, Asian, Italian, BBQ … you never know for sure. The open-air bar has some covered seating, or sit in the open air and enjoy the bix mix of locals and tourists.
172 paikallista suosittelee
The Little Fleet
448 E Front StThis is TC's famous food-truck parking lot with a bar! It is a hopping scene almost all day in the summertime. Choose from a variety of food trucks serving local favorites, Mexican, Asian, Italian, BBQ … you never know for sure. The open-air bar has some covered seating, or sit in the open air and enjoy the bix mix of locals and tourists.
Right next door to Lake Ann Brewery you'll find this family-run restaurant. You can get a seat outdoors at the brewery, order here to-go, and they'll bring it to your table at the brewery. Great pizza and salads, and the best Chicken Jalapeño Soup you'll ever taste.
23 paikallista suosittelee
Stone Oven
6551 First StRight next door to Lake Ann Brewery you'll find this family-run restaurant. You can get a seat outdoors at the brewery, order here to-go, and they'll bring it to your table at the brewery. Great pizza and salads, and the best Chicken Jalapeño Soup you'll ever taste.
This cozy Italian restaurant is one of our favorite places for a romantic date with a lovely drive through the country. The Chicken or Veal Saltimbocca is so good that Paul refuses to try anything else. I love the butternut squash ravioli when it's in season.
29 paikallista suosittelee
Trattoria Funistrada
4566 West Macfarlane RoadThis cozy Italian restaurant is one of our favorite places for a romantic date with a lovely drive through the country. The Chicken or Veal Saltimbocca is so good that Paul refuses to try anything else. I love the butternut squash ravioli when it's in season.
Serious Happy Hour and weekend late-night drink deals! Nice place to hit before or after a show at Old Town Playhouse. The Mac & Cheese small plate is my favorite thing on the menu. Their sushi is also well loved. On a nice night, sit outside by the river.
53 paikallista suosittelee
Firefly Restaurant
310 N Cass StSerious Happy Hour and weekend late-night drink deals! Nice place to hit before or after a show at Old Town Playhouse. The Mac & Cheese small plate is my favorite thing on the menu. Their sushi is also well loved. On a nice night, sit outside by the river.
You wouldn't stop here if you drove past. But it's the locals' secret favorite lunch joint. Shh. We're happy they never update their miserable interior because it keeps the tourists away, and the food more than makes up for its lack of hip decor. Allow a good 15 minutes to decide on your order. The menu is huge, and there are always a few tempting specials. Takeout is always a nice option in summertime. Check Facebook for current specials: https://www.facebook.com/centrestreetcafe/
9 paikallista suosittelee
Centre Street Café
1125 Centre StYou wouldn't stop here if you drove past. But it's the locals' secret favorite lunch joint. Shh. We're happy they never update their miserable interior because it keeps the tourists away, and the food more than makes up for its lack of hip decor. Allow a good 15 minutes to decide on your order. The menu is huge, and there are always a few tempting specials. Takeout is always a nice option in summertime. Check Facebook for current specials: https://www.facebook.com/centrestreetcafe/
We finally tried this place on a cold November night, and we were more than happily satisfied with the flavorful, fresh Vietnamese pho and bún. Generous servings were enough to bring some home for lunch the next day. And they give $1 per bowl to a rotating slate of charities both local and worldwide. Casual counter ordering, good for takeout.
31 paikallista suosittelee
The Good Bowl
328 E Front StWe finally tried this place on a cold November night, and we were more than happily satisfied with the flavorful, fresh Vietnamese pho and bún. Generous servings were enough to bring some home for lunch the next day. And they give $1 per bowl to a rotating slate of charities both local and worldwide. Casual counter ordering, good for takeout.
Crepes & Co TC
329 E State StReal crêpes made by a French chef! Eat them outside on the patio on a sunny morning.
Our favorite place for authentic Italian. The owners are from Sicily, and the menu highlights their love of that region. Chic atmosphere, fabulous food and service, tucked under historic Kirkbride Hall at the Grand Traverse Commons.
60 paikallista suosittelee
PepeNero
700 Cottageview DrOur favorite place for authentic Italian. The owners are from Sicily, and the menu highlights their love of that region. Chic atmosphere, fabulous food and service, tucked under historic Kirkbride Hall at the Grand Traverse Commons.
Elevated deli fare with a Mediterranean influence. Go a few doors down to Bon Vin for a perfect wine pairing by owner Rick who is a veritable encyclopedia of oenophilia!
17 paikallista suosittelee
Raduno
545 E Eighth StElevated deli fare with a Mediterranean influence. Go a few doors down to Bon Vin for a perfect wine pairing by owner Rick who is a veritable encyclopedia of oenophilia!
Recently renovated with a sunny rooftop patio! The view is the thing here. Pretty good pizza and friendly service, right in the heart of Front Street. Sit up top for a bay breeze or get cozy in a booth inside.
15 paikallista suosittelee
Pangea's Pizza
135 E Front StRecently renovated with a sunny rooftop patio! The view is the thing here. Pretty good pizza and friendly service, right in the heart of Front Street. Sit up top for a bay breeze or get cozy in a booth inside.
Huge hard cider menu and excellent small plates in a rustic-industrial atmosphere.
35 paikallista suosittelee
Taproot Cider House
300 E Front StHuge hard cider menu and excellent small plates in a rustic-industrial atmosphere.
Take a beautiful drive up to the Boathouse for an elegant, memorable dinner with a serene setting overlooking Bowers Harbor. Locals love it for special occasions. The food and service are always top-notch.
54 paikallista suosittelee
Boathouse Restaurant
14039 Peninsula DrTake a beautiful drive up to the Boathouse for an elegant, memorable dinner with a serene setting overlooking Bowers Harbor. Locals love it for special occasions. The food and service are always top-notch.
Start your morning with a 1-mile round-trip walk and the best bagels and bagel sandwiches in town! Get your grub and coffee, then enjoy it on our patio. Bubbie's Bagels have that perfect crunchy-then-soft bite, and they use a lot of local ingredients. The Nosh sandwich is a filling breakfast. They sell out pretty fast every morning, so get there before 9:30 for best selection, earlier during the busiest summer weekends.
7 paikallista suosittelee
Bubbie's Bagels
1215 E Front StStart your morning with a 1-mile round-trip walk and the best bagels and bagel sandwiches in town! Get your grub and coffee, then enjoy it on our patio. Bubbie's Bagels have that perfect crunchy-then-soft bite, and they use a lot of local ingredients. The Nosh sandwich is a filling breakfast. They sell out pretty fast every morning, so get there before 9:30 for best selection, earlier during the busiest summer weekends.
Great burgers and pizzas served in a historic schoolhouse, with attached curling barn where you can fulfill your Olympic dreams, all while holding your beer. Where else can you find this? Nowhere!
29 paikallista suosittelee
Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
172 W Burdickville RdGreat burgers and pizzas served in a historic schoolhouse, with attached curling barn where you can fulfill your Olympic dreams, all while holding your beer. Where else can you find this? Nowhere!
There are two places in TC that occupy our Best Burger slot—and we keep debating which is better. One is this place, Oakwood Proper. It has a serious advantage for being much closer to us, but the burgers are really something special. Big, perfectly cooked, and creatively topped on a high-quality bun from Old Mission Bakery. Call your order in way ahead because they often sell out. Just set your pickup time.
8 paikallista suosittelee
Oakwood Proper Burgers
1108 East Eighth StreetThere are two places in TC that occupy our Best Burger slot—and we keep debating which is better. One is this place, Oakwood Proper. It has a serious advantage for being much closer to us, but the burgers are really something special. Big, perfectly cooked, and creatively topped on a high-quality bun from Old Mission Bakery. Call your order in way ahead because they often sell out. Just set your pickup time.
This is one of two places vying for our Best Burger award in TC! It's a bit of a drive, but worth it for the creative toppings and expert flavor pairings combined with quality ingredients. This is a great stop if you're headed out to Interlochen or Frankfort.
6 paikallista suosittelee
Bergstrom's Burgers
905 U.S. 31This is one of two places vying for our Best Burger award in TC! It's a bit of a drive, but worth it for the creative toppings and expert flavor pairings combined with quality ingredients. This is a great stop if you're headed out to Interlochen or Frankfort.
Like beer? Like burgers? Go here. Actually, their menu is much more extensive than that with creative small plates and salads. Big selection of draft beers and cocktails. Hip atmosphere, right in the heart of downtown.
74 paikallista suosittelee
7 Monks Taproom
128 S Union StLike beer? Like burgers? Go here. Actually, their menu is much more extensive than that with creative small plates and salads. Big selection of draft beers and cocktails. Hip atmosphere, right in the heart of downtown.
Vegans rejoice! And everybody else, too, because you won't feel deprived eating vegan at Zest. The owner is passionate about veganism, and she makes it super-delicious. My favorite is The Setup: an avo toast with "cheeze," tomatoes, microgreens, pickled onions, and seasonings to bring it all together. Also great Indian-influenced dishes including their family-recipe samosas. Easy place to bike and have breakfast outside.
Zest Plant-Based Kitchen
439 East Front StreetVegans rejoice! And everybody else, too, because you won't feel deprived eating vegan at Zest. The owner is passionate about veganism, and she makes it super-delicious. My favorite is The Setup: an avo toast with "cheeze," tomatoes, microgreens, pickled onions, and seasonings to bring it all together. Also great Indian-influenced dishes including their family-recipe samosas. Easy place to bike and have breakfast outside.
This is a new pizza joint for 2023, and it is gooooood! Don't be dissuaded by the prices—the pizzas are huge. If you don't have the group or the appetite for a big pizza, you can order by the slice. They always have several varieties ready to go, so slice ordering is very fast. Excellent crust and top-quality toppings. We wished for more sauce and will request it next time we order a whole pizza.
Two Sons Pizza
This is a new pizza joint for 2023, and it is gooooood! Don't be dissuaded by the prices—the pizzas are huge. If you don't have the group or the appetite for a big pizza, you can order by the slice. They always have several varieties ready to go, so slice ordering is very fast. Excellent crust and top-quality toppings. We wished for more sauce and will request it next time we order a whole pizza.
Arts & Culture
You can walk here in about 5 minutes! Recently almost doubled in size, this art museum has a rotating slate of interesting exhibits featuring all kinds of art. They have one of the largest permanent collections of Inuit art in America. Also a very fun museum store with unusual gifts and souvenirs.
30 paikallista suosittelee
Dennos Museum Center
You can walk here in about 5 minutes! Recently almost doubled in size, this art museum has a rotating slate of interesting exhibits featuring all kinds of art. They have one of the largest permanent collections of Inuit art in America. Also a very fun museum store with unusual gifts and souvenirs.
Housed in TC's old Carnegie Library with a Midcentury Modern addition right on the Boardman River, this gallery features well curated art, mostly from local or regional artists. Admission is free and everything is for sale. Start here and then stroll down Sixth Street to admire the grand old lumber baron homes.
Crooked Tree Arts Center - Traverse City
322 6th StHoused in TC's old Carnegie Library with a Midcentury Modern addition right on the Boardman River, this gallery features well curated art, mostly from local or regional artists. Admission is free and everything is for sale. Start here and then stroll down Sixth Street to admire the grand old lumber baron homes.
This is where the real art lovers go for original art that really makes a statement. Fall 2020: moving from Union St. to Front St.
Higher Art Gallery
219 E Front StThis is where the real art lovers go for original art that really makes a statement. Fall 2020: moving from Union St. to Front St.
Essentials
Nearby grocery and liquor stores
One of our closest grocery stores. All the basics plus organic produce, big wine section, good premade items in the deli.
Tom's East Bay station
One of our closest grocery stores. All the basics plus organic produce, big wine section, good premade items in the deli.
Huge selection of booze and expert salespeople who will help you discover something new.
The Beverage Company
1116 Carver StHuge selection of booze and expert salespeople who will help you discover something new.
Rite Aid
1104 S Garfield AveQuickest stop nearby for drugstore essentials. Easy bike or a healthy walk from the studio.
You can walk or bike to this wine shop and get expert recommendations for a bottle to match your food and mood. Bottles are arranged by flavor profile making selections and exploration especially easy and fun. They also carry ice and picnic provisions, which you can tote a few steps east to Bryant Park Beach.
Blue Goat Wine & Provisions
875 E Front StYou can walk or bike to this wine shop and get expert recommendations for a bottle to match your food and mood. Bottles are arranged by flavor profile making selections and exploration especially easy and fun. They also carry ice and picnic provisions, which you can tote a few steps east to Bryant Park Beach.
Rick will wow you with his encyclopedic knowledge of every European wine on the shelves. Free tastings on Saturday afternoons.
Lake District Wine Co. (formerly Bon Vin)
539 E Eighth StRick will wow you with his encyclopedic knowledge of every European wine on the shelves. Free tastings on Saturday afternoons.
Consistently lowest prices in town, with a 1960s butterfly-roofed kiosk. Easy in and out from Front or Peninsula Drive.
Mutual Gas Station
901 E Front StConsistently lowest prices in town, with a 1960s butterfly-roofed kiosk. Easy in and out from Front or Peninsula Drive.
This is the one and only place to buy basic provisions on Old Mission Peninsula. Stop for picnic goodies including lots of prepared foods ready to eat, carryout alcohol, beach essentials, gas.
11 paikallista suosittelee
Peninsula Market
14111 Center RdThis is the one and only place to buy basic provisions on Old Mission Peninsula. Stop for picnic goodies including lots of prepared foods ready to eat, carryout alcohol, beach essentials, gas.
According to our guests with electric vehicles, this is the best place to charge while roaming downtown. Also find charging stations at the Clinch Park Marina and inside some of the parking structures.
Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce
202 East Grandview ParkwayAccording to our guests with electric vehicles, this is the best place to charge while roaming downtown. Also find charging stations at the Clinch Park Marina and inside some of the parking structures.
Parks & Nature
This is our own neighborhood park, about 1/3-mile walk to the north. Large grassy areas, shady wooded areas, a small trail through native plantings, a picnic pavilion, playground and basketball courts.
Clancy Park
712 West Orchard DriveThis is our own neighborhood park, about 1/3-mile walk to the north. Large grassy areas, shady wooded areas, a small trail through native plantings, a picnic pavilion, playground and basketball courts.
This is the perfect place to waste away an afternoon with a picnic, swimming, sunbathing, reading in the shade, or playing lawn games. Big grassy areas and a sandy beach. Water here is shallower and generally a little warmer than other bay beaches. Restrooms. Easy to bike here! On most summer Tuesdays, there’s a 7am yoga class here, by donation.
17 paikallista suosittelee
East Bay Park
220 E Bay Blvd SThis is the perfect place to waste away an afternoon with a picnic, swimming, sunbathing, reading in the shade, or playing lawn games. Big grassy areas and a sandy beach. Water here is shallower and generally a little warmer than other bay beaches. Restrooms. Easy to bike here! On most summer Tuesdays, there’s a 7am yoga class here, by donation.
A quick bike ride or a walk through the neighborhood will put you at Bryant Park on West Bay. See our map in the room for the quickest, safest route. This is a popular and active family park for swimming, picnicking, and hanging out. The crowd usually thins out around 5-6pm, so it's also nice for a relaxing sunset over West Bay. Bring beverages in non-glass containers.
30 paikallista suosittelee
Bryant Park
1101 Peninsula DrA quick bike ride or a walk through the neighborhood will put you at Bryant Park on West Bay. See our map in the room for the quickest, safest route. This is a popular and active family park for swimming, picnicking, and hanging out. The crowd usually thins out around 5-6pm, so it's also nice for a relaxing sunset over West Bay. Bring beverages in non-glass containers.
Where would we begin to tell you the fun that can be had at Sleeping Bear Dunes? Hiking, biking, swimming, boating, paddling, wildlife-watching, stone-skipping, dune-climbing, scenic driving, art & photography … the list goes on and there's no way you can see it all in a day or even a week. Talk to us about what you want to do and we'll help you make the most of your time there. Park pass required for parking in most lots.
304 paikallista suosittelee
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
9922 W Front StWhere would we begin to tell you the fun that can be had at Sleeping Bear Dunes? Hiking, biking, swimming, boating, paddling, wildlife-watching, stone-skipping, dune-climbing, scenic driving, art & photography … the list goes on and there's no way you can see it all in a day or even a week. Talk to us about what you want to do and we'll help you make the most of your time there. Park pass required for parking in most lots.
Just about one mile up Center Road you can take a refreshing hike in the woods and fields of Pelizzari Natural Area. It's not really big, but there's a good network of trails for a couple-mile hike and fresh air.
10 paikallista suosittelee
Pelizzari Natural Area
6852 Center RdJust about one mile up Center Road you can take a refreshing hike in the woods and fields of Pelizzari Natural Area. It's not really big, but there's a good network of trails for a couple-mile hike and fresh air.
If you want to enjoy the drive up Old Mission with a nice swim at the end, this is the place. Nice sandy stretch of coastline with clear water.
19 paikallista suosittelee
Haserot Beach
If you want to enjoy the drive up Old Mission with a nice swim at the end, this is the place. Nice sandy stretch of coastline with clear water.
This is one of the best-kept secrets for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. We used to live right next to it, and we know it like it's our own. It's relatively undiscovered, unspoiled, and simply gorgeous with about 7 miles of trails along a gurgling creek, an old railroad grade, upland hardwoods, open fields, and pine stands. Magnificent.
Cedar Run Creek Natural Area
This is one of the best-kept secrets for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. We used to live right next to it, and we know it like it's our own. It's relatively undiscovered, unspoiled, and simply gorgeous with about 7 miles of trails along a gurgling creek, an old railroad grade, upland hardwoods, open fields, and pine stands. Magnificent.
This is a park, a hiking trail, and a beach all in one. Hike about a mile to lose the crowds, then settle your towel into the sand at this quiet East Bay beach.
20 paikallista suosittelee
Maple Bay Natural Area
U.S. 31This is a park, a hiking trail, and a beach all in one. Hike about a mile to lose the crowds, then settle your towel into the sand at this quiet East Bay beach.
Looking for peace, quiet, and a knockout sugar-sand beach that's quite likely to be all yours (or almost) on a summer day? This mile-ish hike through the woods leads to a short and not-steep dune trail that ends at a spectacular beach. Pack light and stop often to listen to the breeze in the leaves and nothing else.
14 paikallista suosittelee
Leelanau State Park — Hiking Trailhead
Densmore RoadLooking for peace, quiet, and a knockout sugar-sand beach that's quite likely to be all yours (or almost) on a summer day? This mile-ish hike through the woods leads to a short and not-steep dune trail that ends at a spectacular beach. Pack light and stop often to listen to the breeze in the leaves and nothing else.
This sweet little loop trail is the best quick nature fix around. Hike it and feel like you own it, as you probably won't run into anyone else. The trailhead off Lake Ann Road is the best place to start. Hike along Ransom Creek, then pause on the bridge before circling Ransom Lake. There's also a fun side trail that leads to property on Bellows Lake owned by Eastern Michigan University. They seem not to mind trespassers, and there are some fun stone sculptures along this creekside section of the trail. Reward yourself with a beer on the patio at Lake Ann Brewing.
8 paikallista suosittelee
Ransom Lake Natural Area
5533 Lake Ann RdThis sweet little loop trail is the best quick nature fix around. Hike it and feel like you own it, as you probably won't run into anyone else. The trailhead off Lake Ann Road is the best place to start. Hike along Ransom Creek, then pause on the bridge before circling Ransom Lake. There's also a fun side trail that leads to property on Bellows Lake owned by Eastern Michigan University. They seem not to mind trespassers, and there are some fun stone sculptures along this creekside section of the trail. Reward yourself with a beer on the patio at Lake Ann Brewing.
Wide sandy beach with a long, walkable pier (weather permitting) and two lighthouses. Beautiful ripple-sand bottom, perfect for swimming and sunning. On windy days, watch the surfers here.
30 paikallista suosittelee
Frankfort Public Beach And Playground
Wide sandy beach with a long, walkable pier (weather permitting) and two lighthouses. Beautiful ripple-sand bottom, perfect for swimming and sunning. On windy days, watch the surfers here.
The 1.5-mile hike through woods and dune all but guarantees you a stretch of private sand. Usually good wave action here, too. In late June/early July the biting flies can be bad, so bring some repellant. Also gorgeous in fall! Park Pass required.
18 paikallista suosittelee
Old Indian Trail
4349 North Scenic HighwayThe 1.5-mile hike through woods and dune all but guarantees you a stretch of private sand. Usually good wave action here, too. In late June/early July the biting flies can be bad, so bring some repellant. Also gorgeous in fall! Park Pass required.
No hike, but there are stairs down to this beach on a beautiful stretch of Lake Michigan. Excellent rock-hounding here!
Port Oneida Beach
2686 S Lane RdNo hike, but there are stairs down to this beach on a beautiful stretch of Lake Michigan. Excellent rock-hounding here!
Drive the narrow and winding road to a parking place right on the sand. Long, sandy beach is usually not too populated. Great spot for a sunset bonfire! Park Pass required.
Peterson Road
Peterson RoadDrive the narrow and winding road to a parking place right on the sand. Long, sandy beach is usually not too populated. Great spot for a sunset bonfire! Park Pass required.
This is a great place for a picnic! Or rent tubes and float the lazy river to Lake Michigan. Nice place for a swim, great for birdwatching, and lots of picnic places. Gets crowded on weekends—arrive early. Park Pass required.
8 paikallista suosittelee
Sleeping Bear Dunes-Platte River Campground
5685 Lake Michigan RdThis is a great place for a picnic! Or rent tubes and float the lazy river to Lake Michigan. Nice place for a swim, great for birdwatching, and lots of picnic places. Gets crowded on weekends—arrive early. Park Pass required.
You can walk about 1/2-mile to this large city park on Front Street at the end of Milliken Drive. Soon undergoing a major upgrade, the park already has a 1-mile walking loop, large grassy lawns, soccer and baseball fields, picnic tables, and the Easling Pool where guests can swim for $10 a day (other options for YMCA members). Also notable: NORTE's bright orange headquarters with resources for bicyclists, including a community bike repair shop with tools and help for quick fixes.
7 paikallista suosittelee
Grand Traverse County Civic Center
1213 W Civic Center DrYou can walk about 1/2-mile to this large city park on Front Street at the end of Milliken Drive. Soon undergoing a major upgrade, the park already has a 1-mile walking loop, large grassy lawns, soccer and baseball fields, picnic tables, and the Easling Pool where guests can swim for $10 a day (other options for YMCA members). Also notable: NORTE's bright orange headquarters with resources for bicyclists, including a community bike repair shop with tools and help for quick fixes.
Drinks & Nightlife
Looking for someplace kind of secret, very dark and romantic? Hit the down button and go to Low Bar, an elegant if windowless basement cocktail bar. High-end cocktails served in impressive fashion.
52 paikallista suosittelee
Low Bar
128 S Union StLooking for someplace kind of secret, very dark and romantic? Hit the down button and go to Low Bar, an elegant if windowless basement cocktail bar. High-end cocktails served in impressive fashion.
This is some of the best wine in Northern Michigan with one of the most appealing tasting rooms. Brys has a gorgeous deck with views of the vines and the distant bay. Tastings, tours, snacks, wine by the glass, bocce on the lawn, and a wonderful adult slushy called frosé!
58 paikallista suosittelee
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
3309 Blue Water RdThis is some of the best wine in Northern Michigan with one of the most appealing tasting rooms. Brys has a gorgeous deck with views of the vines and the distant bay. Tastings, tours, snacks, wine by the glass, bocce on the lawn, and a wonderful adult slushy called frosé!
You'll feel like you're in the big city on the rooftop deck at Hotel Indigo. It's a chic scene for fancy drinks in the evening. If it cools down, they fire up the gas-powered firepits. Great place to look over the bay and watch boats. Downstairs they often have live music.
43 paikallista suosittelee
Hotel Indigo Traverse City
263 W Grandview PkwyYou'll feel like you're in the big city on the rooftop deck at Hotel Indigo. It's a chic scene for fancy drinks in the evening. If it cools down, they fire up the gas-powered firepits. Great place to look over the bay and watch boats. Downstairs they often have live music.
Take a drive about 12 miles out to lovely little Lake Ann Village. This brewery has revitalized the town, and the beer is very good. Try my favorite, the Doc Shilladay with its creamy coffee-chocolate flavor profile. Frequent live music and a feel-good, small-town vibe.
57 paikallista suosittelee
Lake Ann Brewing Company
6535 First StTake a drive about 12 miles out to lovely little Lake Ann Village. This brewery has revitalized the town, and the beer is very good. Try my favorite, the Doc Shilladay with its creamy coffee-chocolate flavor profile. Frequent live music and a feel-good, small-town vibe.
Beer, wine, and spirits—they make them all here. We especially love their rye whiskey done up in a Sour or Manhattan. The food is good—and filling. Try a wood-fired pizza or the bison sloppy joe. But the real draw here is the bar. Lively scene that will be crowded on a summer night and sometimes even in the off-season.
66 paikallista suosittelee
Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant & Brewery
13512 Peninsula DrBeer, wine, and spirits—they make them all here. We especially love their rye whiskey done up in a Sour or Manhattan. The food is good—and filling. Try a wood-fired pizza or the bison sloppy joe. But the real draw here is the bar. Lively scene that will be crowded on a summer night and sometimes even in the off-season.
Solid winery with the usual setup plus a fun gift shop. This is one of the oldest and largest wineries on Old Mission. The main reason I included it here is for the stunning overlook on Center Road just south of the entrance. Pull off around sunset and gaze over West Bay and Power Island, across to Leelanau. This is the view that will make you want to keep coming back. Oh, and take home a bottle of CGT Dry Riesling.
34 paikallista suosittelee
Chateau Grand Traversen viinitila
12239 Center RdSolid winery with the usual setup plus a fun gift shop. This is one of the oldest and largest wineries on Old Mission. The main reason I included it here is for the stunning overlook on Center Road just south of the entrance. Pull off around sunset and gaze over West Bay and Power Island, across to Leelanau. This is the view that will make you want to keep coming back. Oh, and take home a bottle of CGT Dry Riesling.
It's a bit of a drive, but Benzie County and the town of Frankfort have their own charm. As breweries go, I'd give this industrial-style place just steps from the beach top spot for tastiest beer and food.
99 paikallista suosittelee
Stormcloud Brewing Company
303 Main StIt's a bit of a drive, but Benzie County and the town of Frankfort have their own charm. As breweries go, I'd give this industrial-style place just steps from the beach top spot for tastiest beer and food.
This small piano lounge at the tip-top of the Park Place Hotel comes to life at night and shows off the highest view downtown. Enter the Park Place lobby and take the elevator to the top floor. Often shoulder-to-shoulder year-round. Go up before 9 for lighter crowds.
6 paikallista suosittelee
Beacon Lounge
300 E State StThis small piano lounge at the tip-top of the Park Place Hotel comes to life at night and shows off the highest view downtown. Enter the Park Place lobby and take the elevator to the top floor. Often shoulder-to-shoulder year-round. Go up before 9 for lighter crowds.
An uber-chill atmosphere with comfy chairs, top-notch spirits and mixologists who know how to use them. Live music on the regular.
18 paikallista suosittelee
Mammoth Distilling
221 Garland StAn uber-chill atmosphere with comfy chairs, top-notch spirits and mixologists who know how to use them. Live music on the regular.
Fun, industrial-themed brewpub with good beer and good food from a limited menu. They often host fun events with lots of local color.
55 paikallista suosittelee
The Workshop Brewing Company
221 Garland StFun, industrial-themed brewpub with good beer and good food from a limited menu. They often host fun events with lots of local color.
This is our favorite source for local spirits! The vibe is casual and friendly with staff ready to win you over with their amazing array of spirits. We are gin lovers, and we've sampled it all over the world but keep declaring NLD's Jack Pine Gin our all-time favorite.
27 paikallista suosittelee
Northern Latitudes Distillery
Michigan 204This is our favorite source for local spirits! The vibe is casual and friendly with staff ready to win you over with their amazing array of spirits. We are gin lovers, and we've sampled it all over the world but keep declaring NLD's Jack Pine Gin our all-time favorite.
Just outside of town on the highest hill in TC, you can sit on the patio and taste Rove's delicious wines while overlooking the vineyards and distant hills.
41 paikallista suosittelee
Rove Estate Tasting Room and Vineyard
7007 E Traverse HwyJust outside of town on the highest hill in TC, you can sit on the patio and taste Rove's delicious wines while overlooking the vineyards and distant hills.
This is the winery closest to our studio, just up the peninsula a bit. Mari is built in the traditional, Italian style with stone construction embedded in a hill with wine cellars below. They have a gorgeous, traditional patio overlooking the bay. Great for a relaxing glass (or bottle) when you don't feel like driving very far.
58 paikallista suosittelee
Mari Vineyards
8175 Center RdThis is the winery closest to our studio, just up the peninsula a bit. Mari is built in the traditional, Italian style with stone construction embedded in a hill with wine cellars below. They have a gorgeous, traditional patio overlooking the bay. Great for a relaxing glass (or bottle) when you don't feel like driving very far.
Sightseeing
You cannot miss a drive up Old Mission Peninsula! This lighthouse is at the dead end of M-37. The lighthouse itself and its grounds are a fine destination, but the drive is the real highlight. We recommend taking Center Road/M-37 north and Peninsula Drive back south for views off each side of this narrow peninsula. Take the side roads, too! You really can't get lost because you'll hit the water soon enough. There are views of the bays, farms, vineyards, grand architecture, harbors, and historic sites. Stop for some fresh fruit at an honor-system farm stand, taste wine every mile along the way (almost), and take a dip at Haserot Park.
61 paikallista suosittelee
Old Mission Lighthouse
You cannot miss a drive up Old Mission Peninsula! This lighthouse is at the dead end of M-37. The lighthouse itself and its grounds are a fine destination, but the drive is the real highlight. We recommend taking Center Road/M-37 north and Peninsula Drive back south for views off each side of this narrow peninsula. Take the side roads, too! You really can't get lost because you'll hit the water soon enough. There are views of the bays, farms, vineyards, grand architecture, harbors, and historic sites. Stop for some fresh fruit at an honor-system farm stand, taste wine every mile along the way (almost), and take a dip at Haserot Park.
Great biking route off the beaten path. Stunning bay views and interesting homes line this leafy road. Take Eastern Ave to its end and turn left for a leisurely pedal.
East Shore Road
East Shore RoadGreat biking route off the beaten path. Stunning bay views and interesting homes line this leafy road. Take Eastern Ave to its end and turn left for a leisurely pedal.
Picturesque lighthouse with an enchanting drive through Benzie County.
57 paikallista suosittelee
Point Betsien majakka
3701 Point Betsie RdPicturesque lighthouse with an enchanting drive through Benzie County.
You can't say you've been to the tip unless you go here. Enjoy the rich history in the museum.
55 paikallista suosittelee
Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum
15500 Lighthouse Point RoadYou can't say you've been to the tip unless you go here. Enjoy the rich history in the museum.
Everyone asks, so here is the best way to see Old Mission Peninsula from our location: Drive north on Center Road/M37 to Bluff Road. Take that along the water to Blue Water Road and turn left. (Stop at Brys Estate Winery on Blue Water Road!) That takes you back to Center Road which you can follow to the lighthouse at the tip. On your way back (time for a West Bay sunset!) cut west on Bowers Harbor Road to meet Peninsula Drive and take that all the way down. All along this route you'll find amazing water views, farm stands, wineries. Must do!
14 paikallista suosittelee
Old Mission
Everyone asks, so here is the best way to see Old Mission Peninsula from our location: Drive north on Center Road/M37 to Bluff Road. Take that along the water to Blue Water Road and turn left. (Stop at Brys Estate Winery on Blue Water Road!) That takes you back to Center Road which you can follow to the lighthouse at the tip. On your way back (time for a West Bay sunset!) cut west on Bowers Harbor Road to meet Peninsula Drive and take that all the way down. All along this route you'll find amazing water views, farm stands, wineries. Must do!
No visit to Leelanau is complete without strolling through the historic shanties and quaint shops in Leland's Fishtown. It has a New England feel, without the salt!
84 paikallista suosittelee
Fishtown
203 W River StNo visit to Leelanau is complete without strolling through the historic shanties and quaint shops in Leland's Fishtown. It has a New England feel, without the salt!
Brand new for summer 2021! We have not had a chance to try this tour yet, but we've long wished that one like this would be available. Let us know what you think of it!
Discovery Cruises
13170 South West Bay Shore DriveBrand new for summer 2021! We have not had a chance to try this tour yet, but we've long wished that one like this would be available. Let us know what you think of it!
Midcentury Modern Architecture Driving Tour:
Docomomo has created a nice driving tour for fans of MCM architecture. If you're interested in the architecture of our home and want to see more in the area, check out this three-leg driving tour that marks many but not all of the significant residences, churches, and commercial buildings designed in the 1940s-1960s. https://tcdrivingtourwebsi.wixsite.com/tour
Peninsula Drive
Peninsula DriveMidcentury Modern Architecture Driving Tour:
Docomomo has created a nice driving tour for fans of MCM architecture. If you're interested in the architecture of our home and want to see more in the area, check out this three-leg driving tour that marks many but not all of the significant residences, churches, and commercial buildings designed in the 1940s-1960s. https://tcdrivingtourwebsi.wixsite.com/tour
Shopping
Two locations: West (Slabtown) and East (US31 along the bay). Well-curated consignment shop with current styles for reasonable prices.
Zany Consignment Boutique
318 Vine StTwo locations: West (Slabtown) and East (US31 along the bay). Well-curated consignment shop with current styles for reasonable prices.
Four floors to explore in this former-furniture-store-turned-antiques-mall. Each booth has its own personality. (Insider Tip: They will always give you 10% off if you ask.)
Wilson Antiques
123 S Union StFour floors to explore in this former-furniture-store-turned-antiques-mall. Each booth has its own personality. (Insider Tip: They will always give you 10% off if you ask.)
Stylish selection of antiques and modern furniture and accessories with emphasis on Midcentury Modern and Farmhouse Industrial.
Reclectia
1132 S Garfield AveStylish selection of antiques and modern furniture and accessories with emphasis on Midcentury Modern and Farmhouse Industrial.
Sophisticated jewelry inspired by Northern Michigan's natural features. A truly unique souvenir.
Becky Thatcher Designs
5795 S Lake StSophisticated jewelry inspired by Northern Michigan's natural features. A truly unique souvenir.
One of my favorite boutiques in TC carries casually elegant clothing that's nicely coordinated across brands. Very helpful sales staff. Great deals during sidewalk sales, the first Friday in August.
F L E A
238 E Front StOne of my favorite boutiques in TC carries casually elegant clothing that's nicely coordinated across brands. Very helpful sales staff. Great deals during sidewalk sales, the first Friday in August.
Well chosen selection of art and handmade gifts in the historic Building 50 at the GT Commons.
Sanctuary Handcrafted Goods
800 Cottageview DrWell chosen selection of art and handmade gifts in the historic Building 50 at the GT Commons.
The best place to buy local food to take home! Handcrafted preserves, jams, salsas, sauces, and toppings as well as unique gift baskets. Taste it all, then ship it home or to a friend. Try the classic Sour Cherry Preserves or my favorites: Chili Jam, Pumpkin Seed Salsa, and Salted Maple Caramel.
American Spoon
230 E Front StThe best place to buy local food to take home! Handcrafted preserves, jams, salsas, sauces, and toppings as well as unique gift baskets. Taste it all, then ship it home or to a friend. Try the classic Sour Cherry Preserves or my favorites: Chili Jam, Pumpkin Seed Salsa, and Salted Maple Caramel.
Bath products and unique gifts made from their own farm-grown lavender. Wander the acres of you-pick flowers, berries, and fall pumpkins.
Secret Garden at Brys Estate
3309 Blue Water RdBath products and unique gifts made from their own farm-grown lavender. Wander the acres of you-pick flowers, berries, and fall pumpkins.
The general store from your memories! This place is charming and nostalgic without realizing it. Their motto is, "If we don't have it, you don't need it." And they mean it. Slam the screen door and find just about anything your little vacationing heart desires here in the narrow aisles of a historic building.
17 paikallista suosittelee
Lake Ann Grocery
19619 Maple StThe general store from your memories! This place is charming and nostalgic without realizing it. Their motto is, "If we don't have it, you don't need it." And they mean it. Slam the screen door and find just about anything your little vacationing heart desires here in the narrow aisles of a historic building.
Fun shop with everything for the home cook, plus lots of cool local gifts with a sense of humor.
Peppercorn of Traverse City
226 East Front StreetFun shop with everything for the home cook, plus lots of cool local gifts with a sense of humor.
Locally owned and operated, with unique designs on shirts and souvenirs of all kinds. They customize!
Mr Bill's Shirt Co
228 E Front StLocally owned and operated, with unique designs on shirts and souvenirs of all kinds. They customize!
Fun store in the Warehouse with a unique selection of easy-wearing women's clothing. Interesting jewelry, too. Cute French bulldog will quietly greet you!
Relish
144 Hall StFun store in the Warehouse with a unique selection of easy-wearing women's clothing. Interesting jewelry, too. Cute French bulldog will quietly greet you!
If you love yarn or fabric, you must visit this store! Beautifully arranged and carefully selected natural fibers, plus interesting home and gift items.
Fresh Water Textiles
144 Hall StIf you love yarn or fabric, you must visit this store! Beautifully arranged and carefully selected natural fibers, plus interesting home and gift items.