Traverse City Travel Blog

Traverse City lights up during the holidays with dazzling displays that take over local homes, neighborhoods, and businesses. Exploring the twinkling light decorations is a highlight of the Christmas season for people of all ages. Prepare the hot cocoa, press play on your favorite holiday playlist

There is no better place to ring in the New Year than the coastal community of Traverse City.

Kick 2025 off to a magical start in the town’s picturesque, cozy setting. With so many ways to celebrate in the TC area, you’ll be sure to maximize holiday cheer.

As the festive season approaches, communities come alive with an array of holiday events, creating a magical tapestry of joy and celebration. Whether it's cozying up with loved ones at a local restaurant, or attending a grand community celebration, these events have a little something everyone will love.

You don’t really need an excuse to take a wine tour, but we’ve got some handy anyway.

Winery visits are an affordable and unique way to spend a winter day in Traverse City. Luckily, there are a variety of dynamic, educational, inspiring, and memorable Michigan wine tasting options, whether you’re

The tree is decorated. The holiday meal is planned. Now you just need to finish buying — and wrapping — all those gifts. ‘Tis the season to shop until you drop, and Traverse City is ready to ensure your holidays shine bright with a wide variety of stores to satisfy every wish on your list. You’ll find everything you need and even have some fun along the way (maybe with a seasonal tipple in hand) at these area stores. 

Whether you’re local or visiting, spending Thanksgiving 2025 in Traverse City is bound to be filled with joy, warmth, and plenty of delicious memories. Gather around the table with loved ones and enjoy a meal cooked by local northern Michigan chefs. 

The beauty is in the little things. The single fall amber leaf is surrounded by the summer green leaves. The red crabapples are so ripe that they’re straining to stay on the tree for one more day. The sunflower spreads its golden petals to welcome a single industrious bee collecting its nectar and

As days slip into years, and years slip into decades, it can be difficult to separate folklore from reality. But if you embrace the tale, Jim Richards of Old Mission is following in the footsteps of giants. His steps take the same path as Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, Harvey Firestone, Teddy Roosevelt,

America seems to be waking up to the beauty of northern Michigan’s fall colors. This short season sets the hillsides around Grand Traverse Bay ablaze with vibrant colors. Shades of red, orange, and yellow combine with mild temperatures to create a mad dash to capture one more hike in the forest, one more outdoor wine tasting, and one more walk along the beach before winter sets in. 

Traverse City is famous for its outdoor scene, but on the days when the weather isn't cooperating, there's plenty to do inside.

Here's a lineup of fun places to explore from within.