Explore All That Traverse City, Michigan Has to Offer

Welcome to Traverse City!

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is a vibrant, welcoming city known for its stunning natural beauty, thriving food and wine scene, and rich local culture. Famous for its annual Cherry Festival, scenic landscapes, and dynamic downtown, Traverse City effortlessly blends small-town charm with lively city energy.

Table of Contents
Visit Traverse City
Life in Traverse City
Traverse City Real Estate
Nearby Cities & Suburbs
FAQs

 

Your Visit to Traverse City, MI: A Local’s Itinerary

Day One: Traverse City Essentials
Start your weekend getaway with breakfast at Red Spire Brunch House, nestled in the charming Village at Grand Traverse Commons. This historic spot is a local gem, and you can’t go wrong with their red velvet pancakes or the house favorite Crab Benedict, topped with creamy hollandaise.

After breakfast, make your way downtown where everything is within walking distance. Begin your stroll at Brilliant Books to find a new read, then pop over to My Secret Stash for locally made gifts and unique treasures. Just a few doors down, Cherry Republic is a must-visit for cherry everything sample jams, chocolate-covered cherries, and more as you browse.

When it’s time for lunch, wander two blocks over to The Little Fleet. This laid-back spot is home to food trucks, craft cocktails, and a sunny patio that’s perfect for an afternoon hangout.

Beyond the great food and shopping, downtown Traverse City is just steps away from the water. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the TART Trail, which winds through the heart of the city. Or, relax at Clinch Park Beach and the Open Space for lake views and top-notch people-watching. If you’re in the mood for some local culture, stop by the historic City Opera House or catch a show at the iconic State Theatre.

As evening sets in, head to Apache Trout Grill for a lakeside dinner featuring whitefish dip and fresh-caught fish dishes. Wrap up your day with a cocktail at the Hotel Indigo rooftop bar for unbeatable views of the bay, or cozy up with a drink at The Parlor for a warm, welcoming end to your Traverse City adventure.

Day Two: Beyond City Limits
Start your second day with a morning adventure to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, about forty minutes from downtown Traverse City. The short trail up Pyramid Point rewards you with stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the rolling dunes that make this a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Just don’t forget to pack some good hiking shoes, the sandy trails can be a workout, but the view at the top is worth every step.

After soaking in the views, make your way to historic Fishtown in Leland for lunch at the Village Cheese Shanty. Their sandwiches are legendary and best enjoyed with the salty breeze off the water. Fun fact: Fishtown is one of the last working commercial fishing districts on the Great Lakes, and wandering the weathered docks feels like stepping back in time.

On the way back, treat yourself to a relaxed afternoon of wine and cider tasting. Black Star Farms and Suttons Bay Ciders are just twenty minutes from Traverse City, and each has a cozy, welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger over a glass or two.

Wrap up your trip with a casual dinner at Hop Lot Brewing Co. in Suttons Bay. Their spacious beer garden is the perfect spot for a summer evening, and in winter, the glowing igloos make it a magical spot to gather with friends. With everything so close and easy to explore, it is the perfect way to finish off a Traverse City weekend.

Visiting in Another Season?
Each season in Traverse City brings its own magic. In the fall, take a scenic drive up M22 to see the colors pop and stop at a local orchard for fresh cider and crisp apples. Winter is the perfect time to cozy up after skiing at Crystal Mountain or Boyne Mountain, or to join a snowshoe tour that winds between wineries for a warm glass of red. If you are up for a new adventure, check out the SkyBridge at Boyne Mountain where you can walk high above snow covered treetops and take in breathtaking views. Winter is also a great time to explore the quieter side of Traverse City stroll through downtown shops, catch live music at a local bar, or warm up with a hearty meal at one of the neighborhood restaurants that always feels like home.

 

What Living in Traverse City is Like

Living in Traverse City means experiencing the best of both worlds, natural beauty and small-city convenience. Nestled along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, the city offers a laid-back, yet active lifestyle. Whether you’re strolling through the farmers market, enjoying a glass at a local winery, or catching a movie at the historic State Theatre, there’s always something to do. The community is close-knit, friendly, and passionate about supporting local businesses, making it easy to feel at home.

Population
Traverse City has approximately 15,700 residents, with steady seasonal increases due to tourism.

Cost of Living
The cost of living in Traverse City is slightly above state and national averages. The median household income hovers around $60,000, with housing being the primary driver of higher costs.

Employment
Key industries for Traverse City employment include tourism, hospitality, healthcare, and agriculture. Major employers like Munson Healthcare and Grand Traverse Resort offer a wide range of jobs, while remote work has become increasingly common.

Education
Traverse City boasts strong public schools and several respected private institutions. Northwestern Michigan College offers robust programs, including culinary and maritime studies, making it a hub for post-secondary education in the region.

Lifestyle & Recreation
Outdoor enthusiasts love the year-round activities — from summer boating and hiking to winter skiing and snowshoeing. Plus, community events like the National Cherry Festival and Traverse City Film Festival add a vibrant cultural heartbeat to the area.

 

 

The Traverse City Real Estate Market

As Traverse City continues to grow in popularity, the local real estate market remains competitive. From quaint downtown homes and condos to wooded retreats and waterfront properties, the variety is part of what makes the area so attractive. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking for your forever home, there are plenty of reasons to consider putting down roots here.

Traverse City Market Stats Summer 2025*
Median Home Price — $450,333
Average Price Per Square Foot — $256
Average Days on Market — 68 days

Interested in Traverse City real estate? Lucky for you, we’ve got a Traverse City office located right there in town! Reach out to connect with our licensed Loan Officers, so they can help you navigate the local market. They’ll be able to guide you through the home buying process, answer any questions, or even connect you with recommended Realtors.

 

Nearby Cities & Suburbs

Suttons Bay
Located north of Traverse City along the Leelanau Peninsula, Suttons Bay is a quiet waterfront village with a population of about 600. Like Traverse City, it offers a walkable downtown with shops, cafes, and access to the bay. Known for its surrounding vineyards and relaxed pace, Suttons Bay is a favorite for those looking to enjoy scenic beauty in a small-town setting. The average home value is approximately $648,800.

Leland
Leland is a historic and picturesque town situated on Lake Michigan, best known for its preserved Fish Town district. With a population of just over 400, Leland blends a peaceful atmosphere with local charm and coastal views. Home values in the area reflect its desirability, with average prices around $1,115,000.

Kalkaska
East of Traverse City, Kalkaska is a rural community of roughly 2,100 residents. Surrounded by rivers, trails, and forestland, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Kalkaska offers one of the more affordable housing markets in the region, with a median home price of $260,000 and an average price per square foot of $189.

 

Traverse City FAQ’s

What county is Traverse City located in?
Traverse City spans two counties: Grand Traverse County and Leelanau County, with the downtown core located in Grand Traverse.

How do I find a house in Traverse City?
Start by connecting with one of our trusted Treadstone advisors who can guide you through local neighborhoods, market trends, and financing options tailored to your goals.

Are there local events of festivals in Traverse City?
Absolutely! Traverse City is known for its lively events calendar. Must-attend happenings include the National Cherry Festival, Traverse City Film Festival, and seasonal farmers markets, wine tours, and art walks.

What is there to do in Traverse City?
Plenty! From Lake Michigan beaches and hiking trails to farm-to-table restaurants, local wineries, and boutique shopping, Traverse City is a year-round playground for outdoor lovers and culture seekers alike.

*Source: Rockethomes.com as of June 2025
** Source: Niche.com as of June 2025