5 Things You Must Do in Traverse City

Traverse City Car Rentals

Traverse City, Michigan bills itself as the “Tart Cherry Capital” for good reason—the trees produce some of the best cherries around. But there’s plenty to do on the shores of Lake Michigan besides eat!

1.  Taste some wine.  Wineries abound around Traverse City, and some like Chateau Chantal offer a bed and breakfast on the premises. Cellar tours, wine tasting, seminars and jazz concerts are offered at various times of the year.  For more information on  the Chateau click on the link.

2.  Climb a dune.  Visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore tackle the Dune Climb. At the top you’ll be rewarded with a vista that stretches for miles and encompasses Glen Lake.  If you’re not quite up for climbing a dune, there are three walking/hiking trails, including one accessible trail, for you to enjoy.  For more information on the Dunes click on the link.

3.  Sail a tall ship.  The 114-foot Schooner ‘Manitou’ is based in Traverse City and sails on 2-hour cruises every day. Choose a wine-tasting cruise, or sample life aboard ship by staying overnight in one of the twelve staterooms.  For more information on the Tall Ships click on the link. 

4.  Recreate outdoors.  Ranch Rudolph offers year-round activities on 195 acres.  In the summer you can enjoy horseback riding, canoeing, and horse-drawn hay rides.  In winter, those same horses can pull you in a sleigh, or you can ski, tube or snowmobile to your heart’s content. 

5.  Visit the Great Lakes Children’s Museum.  Hands-on exhibits everywhere let you explore the natural world around you. Get wet at the Water Table, participate in a science activity, or get everyone together for Family Fun Night.  Everyone goes home happy!  For more information on the Museum click on the link.