One of the country’s best wine-producing regions and also known as the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City, Michigan is an impressive vacation destination. Located in the north-east section of Michigan’s lower peninsula, the town is surrounded by stunning views and crystal clear lakes. Traverse City is well known for a rich history in the arts, and for one of the largest festivals in the country; the eight-day extravaganza known as the National Cherry Festival.
It’s All About The Cherries!
Cherries are a big business here! Traverse City, and the area’s around it, produce about two hundred fifty millions pounds of tart cherries every year. That’s about 75% of all US production. Tart cherries are preferred by the baking industry for pies and sauces. The cherry industry used to command a larger percentage of production but many cherry farms have been converted to grow grapes for wine and hops in the past few decades. Craft beer breweries and award winning vineyards are all growing in the area.
Lodging
Traverse City offers a wide variety of accommodations including resorts, hotels, and B&Bs. Choose from the city center for easy access to 150 restaurants, 40 wineries, 16 craft breweries or waterfront for beautiful views of Grand Traverse Bay.
Lakes and Beaches
The Grand Traverse Bay Area has 180 miles of beach to explore. Other favorite outdoor activities include boating, golfing, hiking, and biking.
Drive 45 minutes north of Traverse City and you’ll find Torch Lake, a local favorite. Torch Lake is 19 miles long and covers 18,770 acres. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water, similar to that of the Caribbean. Boat rentals are available for a cruise around the lake or rent a kayak for a relaxing trip to the famous Torch Lake sand bar.
The Great Outdoors
Traverse City is home to several championship golf courses featuring designs by Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Jerry Matthews, among others. The golf courses are open for three seasons; spring, summer and fall.
If you enjoy activities, Traverse City is a variable wonderland offering snowmobiling, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or try something new and go Fat-Tire Biking.
The Great Indoors
If you’re more inclined to indoor activities Traverse City hosts several; art galleries, museums, and retail therapy. There are many art galleries and studios in town, featuring work from local and regional, artists. If shopping is more your thing take a quick trip to The Village at Grand Traverse Common, formally an old, sprawling former mental asylum, now a hub for restaurants, shopping, and housing!
Trek’s and Tours
Are you looking for a little adventure? Traverse City offers Craft Beer Tours, Wine Tours (check out the wine trail), Bike, and Kayak Tours. If you prefer a day-trip, take a drive to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (31 miles northeast), or to Michigan’s Tunnel of Trees (90 miles north up the coast).
Contact Pegasus Travel Advisors to plan your personalized trip to beautiful Traverse City, Michigan.
