There are several different things to do in Traverse City, Michigan. For example, you can go fishing, visit the Mission Point Lighthouse, or visit the local Wineries. You can also check out the Village at Traverse Commons, a former mental asylum that now contains local shops and restaurants.
Grand Traverse Bay
The Grand Traverse Bay is home to a number of different activities. Take a boat ride and explore the harbor. There are several tours to choose from, including a sunset champaign cruise or a windjammer cruise. Both tours offer great views of the bay and are usually about 1.5 to 2 hours long.
If you’re looking for a way to spend a weekend, there are a lot of activities for families in the area. For example, if you’re traveling with children, take them to the Great Lakes Children’s Museum, where they can explore play-based exhibits. The museum also has free streaming events and educational classes for children.
Another great option for a day trip to the Bay is a historic walking tour of the state hospital. This is a great way to learn about the history of the area, as well as interesting characters. The buildings themselves are fascinating, and you’ll have a great view of Grand Traverse Bay as you explore them.
If you’re a lover of cherries, Traverse City is home to the National Cherry Festival. This festival is held in early July each year, and has celebrated the region’s favorite fruit since 1925. It was originally known as the Blessing of the Blossoms, and has grown into a yearly tradition.
Mission Point Lighthouse
Located 17 miles north of Traverse City, Michigan, Mission Point Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse in the state. It was built in 1870 on the Old Mission Point peninsula that juts into Grand Traverse Bay. Its predecessor, the Mama Juda Light, was built on the Detroit River in 1866.
Mission Point Lighthouse is a historic landmark that offers a unique look into maritime life in the 19th century. This historic lighthouse is also home to the Hessler Log Cabin, a restored turn-of-the-century log cabin. Its keeper program is popular with visitors.
If you’re a history buff, you’ll want to visit Mission Point Lighthouse in Traverse City, MI. Located on Old Mission Point, it’s a short drive north of Traverse City. It has stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay and includes a museum and play area for children. The lighthouse is near Lake Michigan and the waters are crystal clear.
Visitors can explore the lighthouse’s interior and exterior. While the lighthouse is historic, the interior of the lighthouse is not handicap accessible. The only bathrooms in the historic area are located outside.
Fishing harbor
If you’re interested in fishing, you’ll want to try fishing at the Traverse City Harbor. This large bay is home to tasty panfish, perch, and bluegill, and is the perfect introduction to the sport. However, you may also want to consider exploring the area’s many inland lakes. Traverse City’s river and lake fishing is also good, and there are several charter boats available on the water. Many of them specialize in fishing for bass, but you’ll also be able to find boats designed for river fishing.
The new pier will cost $3 million to build, and the city has so far raised about half of the money. The rest will come from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund and private donations. The project has been designed by Edgewater Resources, an architectural firm specializing in waterfront projects across the Great Lakes and U.S., and it will go out to bid in May. The goal is to have a completed project by May 2023.
If you want to fish in the area, you should know that there are two varieties of Salmon that you can catch here. The Grand Traverse Bay is home to Chinook Salmon, while the Boardman River is home to Coho Salmon. Both species are very popular with locals and tourists alike.
Beaches
Traverse City is known for its stunning lakes and beaches. While most tourists tend to stick to the downtown area, there are several other beaches you can visit that offer more space and a more relaxing beach experience. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach for a romantic picnic or a more family-friendly beach, you’re sure to find it in Traverse City.
The west end of the downtown shoreline in Traverse City is home to West End Beach. The secluded beach is ideal for young families and small children, as it offers calm water and plenty of room to play. A paved walking trail connects this beach to Clinch Park Marina and the downtown area.
In addition to beaches, Traverse City also offers many other activities for tourists and locals alike. Visiting the wineries and museums in the area is another great activity. For the foodies, there are many great farm-to-table restaurants. The city is also home to one of the best indoor waterparks in the state.
Traverse City’s most popular beach is Clinch Park. This public beach sits just west of downtown, on the shore of West Grand Traverse Bay. The beach is easily accessible by foot from downtown, and it is located near Cass Street. It has excellent facilities and is close to shops, restaurants, and coffee shops.
Lighthouses
Traverse City is home to several historic lighthouses. Located near the Manitou Passage, this once-bustling port offers easy access to six historic lighthouses, including Grand Traverse, Mission Point, and South Manitou. The Grand Traverse Lighthouse dates back to the early 1900s and is now a museum.
While you’re here, take the time to explore the lighthouses in the area. They’re a great place to take in the sunrise, get a delicious breakfast delivered to your room, or simply sit and enjoy the view of the lake. If you’re traveling on a budget, there are free vacation guides available online that help you plan a perfect getaway to the beautiful northern Michigan coastline.
The Peninsula Point Lighthouse was built in 1866. You can tour the tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The Seul Choix Point Lighthouse is another historical site in Traverse City. The lighthouse was lit in 1895 and has a white tower and red roof. It is open to the public during warm weather.
Mission Point Lighthouse is another lighthouse worth seeing if you’re visiting Traverse City. Located in Mission Point State Park, it’s just a 20-minute drive north of the city. Featuring spectacular views of Grand Traverse Bay, Mission Point Lighthouse offers tours, a museum, and even a play area. It’s a great place for a family outing.
Farms
Workcation packages are available at Traverse City’s Black Star Farms, but you’ll need to book ahead of time. Reservations typically need to be made a few days in advance, and they may be as much as two weeks. You’ll also want to check out the U-Pick orchards. The U-Pick program allows you to choose your own fruits and vegetables, and it is a great way to get your hands on some locally grown fruit.