A Michigan cherry country town on Grand Traverse Bay, gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes and Great Lakes wine country.

Why Visit Traverse City

Traverse City sits at the base of Grand Traverse Bay, surrounded by cherry orchards that make the region the self proclaimed Cherry Capital of the World, while nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers towering sand dunes overlooking Lake Michigan, and a growing wine region rounds out the area’s appeal.

Top Experiences

  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Towering sand dunes overlooking Lake Michigan, with hiking trails and a scenic lakeshore drive.
  • Old Mission Peninsula wine trail: A wine region on a narrow peninsula jutting into Grand Traverse Bay, known for cool climate wines.
  • Traverse City cherry orchards: The self proclaimed Cherry Capital of the World, with u-pick orchards and an annual cherry festival.
  • Grand Traverse Bay beaches: Sandy Lake Michigan beaches along the bay, popular for swimming and sunset views.

Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Traverse City.

Guided Private Pontoon Charter (4 yrs & up)

Guided Private Pontoon Charter (4 yrs & up)

★ 5.0 (35)
From USD 450
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NON-BUS Cadillac MOVIE STARS Traverse Old Mission Wine Tour

NON-BUS Cadillac MOVIE STARS Traverse Old Mission Wine Tour

★ 5.0 (22)
From USD 69
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NON-BUS Old Mission Afternoon / Sunset 3 Wine Tour - ICE COLD AC

NON-BUS Old Mission Afternoon / Sunset 3 Wine Tour - ICE COLD AC

★ 5.0 (12)
From USD 69
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Flying Dress Photo Shoot in Traverse City

Flying Dress Photo Shoot in Traverse City

★ 5.0 (10)
From USD 399
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Wind Dancer Happy Hour Sail

Wind Dancer Happy Hour Sail

★ 5.0 (8)
From USD 130
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MOVIE STARS NON-BUS Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour

MOVIE STARS NON-BUS Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour

★ 5.0 (8)
From USD 69
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Practical Tips

  • The National Cherry Festival each July is Traverse City’s biggest annual event, book lodging well ahead.
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes’ Dune Climb is a strenuous but rewarding short hike up a massive sand dune.
  • Old Mission Peninsula wineries are best explored with a designated driver given the concentration of tasting rooms.

FAQ

Why is Traverse City called the Cherry Capital of the World?
The surrounding region produces a significant share of America’s tart cherries, celebrated with an annual cherry festival each July.

What are Sleeping Bear Dunes?
Towering sand dunes overlooking Lake Michigan near Traverse City, protected as a National Lakeshore.

Is Traverse City good for wine tasting?
Yes, the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas nearby have developed into respected cool climate wine regions.