Traverse City Travel Blog

In October 1870, Jerome Pratt climbed the then-new Mission Point Lighthouse again and again – documenting 69 ships throughout the month in his “Record of Passing Vessels.” Chances are that each time the original lighthouse keeper scaled the heights of the tower during that first full month on duty, he also saw some spectacular fall color.

So much has changed over the past 154 years, yet Mission Point Lighthouse today bears a strong resemblance to what Pratt encountered during his 7-year stint. That includes the stunning scenery of fall.

“There’s an excellent view from the tower,” said Ginger Schultz, manager of Mission Point Lighthouse. “It’s very cool up there.”

Mission Point Lighthouse is among a handful of historic beacons in the Traverse City area that each are worth a visit this fall. And when you come to spend a few days on a tour, you can spend the night at some of Michigan’s most historical places to stay.

Take a closer look at the lighthouses of the Traverse City area and nearby places to stay:

In the Traverse City fruit scene, cherries may be king, but apples are a close second! And right now, they're in season and can be enjoyed every day of the week.

Check out our suggestions for taking a bite of northern Michigan flavor:

Ah, fall colors. Apple cider. Pumpkin spice.

The best time of year has arrived! Come share the season with your pup in the Traverse City area.

TC is full of pet-friendly restaurants and things to do, with more than a few trails where you and your canine companion can see the changing leaves in all their glory, too.

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. 

From haunted walks and spooky tours through the historic downtown to pumpkin patches and trick-or-treating, you won't want to miss out on the fun atmosphere in Traverse City this season.

With crisp autumn air, vibrant fall foliage, and a unique blend of spooky and charming, our region offers the perfect backdrop for your Halloween adventures. 

You can’t get Short’s Brewing innovations such as Pumpkincrusha on Nitro or the Cozy Blanket American porter in the store or at your local bar.

But you can come to taste it all this fall during Traverse City Beer Week. The annual celebration of northern Michigan brews returns Nov. 8-16 with drink specials – and special, experimental beers – at craft breweries all over the Traverse City area. 

As the leaves turn into brilliant red, orange, and gold hues, the city comes alive with festivals, outdoor adventures, and unique local experiences.

From savoring autumn-inspired cuisine to races along colorful trails, Traverse City is the place to embrace the beauty and excitement of fall.

Take a look at these ongoing events happening this season!

Fall is knocking at our doors, and it is time to embrace Northern Michigan’s most colorful time of the year. Knit sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes, football games, corn mazes, pumpkin carving… all hallmarks of the beloved season.

Here are some that are unique to the Traverse City area that you can’t miss out on this autumn!

Long before Interstates were built and enabled families to travel quickly to Michigan destinations. Long before there were Holiday Inn's or luxurious hotels. There were tiny mom-and-pop-run motor hotels that straddled the state highways. 

These motor hotels quickly became known as “motels.” They were a comfortable refuge that welcomed road-weary travelers with easy access to their rooms. Those tiny welcome centers still dot the northern Michigan travel landscape. They still embrace those who need a break from the road. In many cases, they allow travelers an inside look at quiet little towns that would be too easy to pass without exploring the wonderful stories and opportunities they possess.

In the 1970s, singer James Taylor reminded us that “On the roof is peaceful as can be.” Today, locals and visitors to Traverse City are discovering that the roof is where “the air is fresh and sweet,” and “everything is all right.”

It doesn’t matter if you’re looking over the vast expanse of Grand Traverse Bay, or the vibrant activity below with downtown shoppers. The popularity of rooftop bars has grown exponentially.