Best Things to do in Traverse City | Must-see attractions 2025

The Dennos Museum Center

11:00-16:00

Museum

1410 College Drive Northwestern Michigan College

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The Dennos Museum Center in Traverse City features extensive Inuit art collections, interactive exhibits, and a concert series in a 367-seat auditorium.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Traverse City State Park Beach

7:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1132 US 31 North

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Traverse City State Park Beach offers a scenic lakeside retreat, featuring sandy shores, picnic areas, and access to various outdoor activities along beautiful Lake Michigan.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Parking fees may apply.

Great Lakes Children's Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

13240 South West Bay Shore Drive

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Great Lakes Children's Museum in Traverse City engages children with hands-on interactive exhibits like a Water Table and Freighter, fostering creative play.

Duration: 2 hours.

Paid. Adults: $8, Children (2-17): $6. Discounts for families and groups available.

The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

830 Cottageview Drive

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The Village at Grand Traverse Commons features renovated buildings from a historic state asylum, offering shops, restaurants, wineries, and outdoor trails in Traverse City.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some specific events may have associated costs.

Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Nature reserve

1450 Cass Rd

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Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve in Traverse City is a diverse ecosystem offering guided hikes and educational themes for nature enthusiasts.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Guided hikes may have a nominal fee depending on the theme.

Reffitt Preserve

Open 24 hours

Nature reserve

Three Mile Road TART Trail

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Reffitt Preserve, a 52-acre nature area in Traverse City, features a mile-long hiking trail surrounded by diverse flora and fauna for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required.

Michigan Artists Gallery

11:00 AM–7:00 PM

Museum

317 A East Front St.

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Michigan Artists Gallery showcases contemporary mixed media art from award-winning Michigan artists, including sculptures, prints, and photography in Traverse City, Michigan.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free admission. Special exhibitions may require paid tickets.

Higher Art Gallery

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

126 S Union St

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Higher Art Gallery in Traverse City showcases Modern Contemporary art by local and global artists, featuring a dynamic artist-run space with an in-house studio.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Bryant Park Beach

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

1009 Peninsula Dr

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Bryant Park Beach in Traverse City offers a scenic lakeside experience with recreational activities and picnic areas, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. No entry fees apply, but some rentals may incur costs.

Gens Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

2263 Munson Ave

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Gens Park in Traverse City offers diverse recreational activities and stunning natural scenery, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Parking may have fees during peak seasons.

Hickory Hills Ski Area

9:00 AM–11:00 PM

Ski Area

2000 Randolph St

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Hickory Hills Ski Area offers varied terrain for skiing and snowboarding in Traverse City, Michigan, featuring 17 runs and a vertical drop of 300 feet.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Adult: $40, Child: $30, Discounts available for seniors and groups.

Kresge Auditorium

Varies by event

Theater

Interlochen

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Kresge Auditorium is a roofed open-air concert hall located in Interlochen, Michigan, known for its unique architecture and vibrant cultural events.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours for concerts.

Varies by event. Check individual event listings for specific pricing.

Dennos Museum Center at Northwestern Michigan College

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1701 East Front Street

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Dennos Museum Center at Northwestern Michigan College in Traverse City features visual arts, performing arts, and science exhibitions for all ages.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Mt Holiday Ski Area

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Ski Area

3100 Holiday Rd

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Mt Holiday Ski Area offers 200+ acres of skiing and snowboarding, with diverse terrain and ski school for all ages in Traverse City, Michigan.

Duration: Approximately 3-5 hours.

Adults: $40, Children (6-12): $25, Discounts available for season passes.

Clinch Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

111 East Grandview Parkway

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Clinch Park in Traverse City features scenic views, a sandy beach, walking trails, and picnic areas, perfect for outdoor activities and family fun.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Certain events may have associated costs.

Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City

9:00 AM–11:00 PM

Amusement Park

3575 N US Highway 31 S

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Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City is a premier indoor water park resort offering family-friendly accommodations, expansive water attractions, and various dining options.

Duration: 4-6 hours.

Room rates vary; water park access included with lodging. Day passes may be available at an additional cost.

Solon Township Hall

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Cedar

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Solon Township Hall in Traverse City serves as a hub for local government and community activities, reflecting a commitment to civic engagement and historical preservation.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free access to the hall. Special events might have separate fees.

Dunes Golf Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

6464 W Empire Hwy

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Dunes Golf Club in Traverse City offers a challenging 18-hole course designed by the renowned architect, Bruce Matthews. The scenic layout features native dunes, impressive greens, and beautiful views.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees: $50. Discounts for seniors and juniors available.

Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge

10:00 AM–4:00 AM

Casino

2521 Northwest Bay Shore Drive

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Leelanau Sands Casino & Lodge features gaming, dining, and lodging options near Lake Michigan's beautiful Leelanau Peninsula.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free admission. Gaming activities have associated costs.

Pebble Brook Golf

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

2072 N US Highway 31 N

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Pebble Brook Golf in Traverse City offers an 18-hole course designed for all skill levels, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and top-notch facilities.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees range from $30 to $50, depending on the season and time of day.

Cherry Capital Airport

5:00 AM–9:00 PM

Airport

727 Fly Don't Drive

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Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, Michigan, provides convenient access to Northern Michigan with a range of domestic flights and modern facilities.

Duration: 1-2 hours, depending on services needed.

Free entry for all travelers. Flight costs vary by airline and itinerary.

City Opera House

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

106 E Front St

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City Opera House in Traverse City, Michigan, is a historic theater dating back to 1891, offering a variety of cultural performances.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Varies by event. General admission typically ranges from $15 to $50.

Interlochen Golf Club

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Golf Course

Interlochen

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Interlochen Golf Club, founded in 1924, features a scenic 18-hole course. It's renowned for its manicured greens and tranquil woods, ideal for golf enthusiasts.

Duration: Around 4 hours.

Paid. Green fees apply for daily visitors; membership options are also available.

Old Town Playhouse

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Theater

148 E Eighth St (at Cass)

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Old Town Playhouse is a community theater in Traverse City, showcasing a variety of performances and fostering local talent since 1961.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours for a performance.

Varies by performance, generally $15-$25 for adults, discounts available for seniors and students.

The Crown Golf Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

2400 East Crown Dr

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The Crown Golf Club in Traverse City, USA, features an 18-hole championship course designed to challenge golfers while offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

Duration: About 4 hours.

Green fees vary by day and time, typically starting around $45 for adults.

Cherryland Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

1150 W South Airport Rd (at Garfield)

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Cherryland Center in Traverse City, Michigan, features retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, providing a diverse shopping experience for visitors.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some events and special promotions may have associated costs.

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

920 Wayne St (Division & Bay St)

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Bayview Wesleyan Church in Traverse City, United States, offers a place of worship and community activities, emphasizing spiritual growth and outreach.

Duration: Around 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for special events and activities.

East Bay Park

Open 24 Hours

Park

220 East Bay Boulevard South

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East Bay Park in Traverse City, Michigan offers scenic views, recreational activities, and natural landscapes along the Grand Traverse Bay.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Parking may have associated fees during peak times.

BLT Park & Kayak Launch

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

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BLT Park & Kayak Launch in Traverse City offers a serene riverfront for kayaking, picnicking, and nature walks, providing a relaxing outdoor experience for visitors.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Kayak rentals may incur additional costs.

The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

15 Red Drive

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The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park offers diverse flora and tranquil walking paths in Traverse City, enhancing the local natural landscape for residents and visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Ski Area

3100 Holiday Road

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Mt. Holiday Ski and Recreational Area in Traverse City offers year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking with scenic views and diverse terrain.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Affordable. Daily ski passes for adults are approximately $35; children's passes are around $25.

Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area

Open 24 hours

Mall

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Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area features over 600 acres of lush landscapes, historic grounds, and diverse habitats for flora and fauna in Traverse City, Michigan.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free.

F and M Park

Open 24 hours

Park

716 E State St

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F and M Park in Traverse City, Michigan offers a serene outdoor space with recreational facilities, scenic trails, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fees are required.

The Hollow

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Event hall

Traverse City

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The Hollow in Traverse City features forest trails, outdoor activities, and local flora amidst vibrant landscapes. An ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and families.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for conservation efforts.

Front Street Shops

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

Traverse City

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Front Street Shops in Traverse City offers diverse boutiques and eateries along a scenic waterfront avenue, showcasing local culture, art, and specialty goods.

Duration: 1 to 3 hours.

Free. Individual shops may have their own pricing for goods and services.

Garden at Cherry Capital Airport

Open 24 hours

Garden

Traverse City

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The Garden at Cherry Capital Airport offers a serene outdoor space for travelers and locals. Enjoy natural beauty and peaceful surroundings before or after flights.

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Free.

TART Boardman Lake Bridge

Open 24 hours

Bridge

Boardman Lake Trail (Boardman Lake)

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TART Boardman Lake Bridge is a crucial part of the Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trail, offering scenic views over Boardman Lake and access to various outdoor activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Presbyterian Church Of Traverse City

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

701 Westminster Rd

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The Presbyterian Church of Traverse City features stunning Gothic architecture, historic significance, and vibrant community engagement in Traverse City, Michigan.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special events.

Rivers Of Life Fellowship Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

982 E Commerce Dr

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Rivers Of Life Fellowship Church in Traverse City emphasizes community and faith, providing a welcoming space for worship and fellowship activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for specific community programs.

Grawn United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1260 S West Silver Lake Rd

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Grawn United Methodist Church, located in Traverse City, United States, offers community services and a place for worship with historical significance and distinct architecture.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs and maintenance.

Long Lake Friends Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Church Road (Long Lake rd)

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Long Lake Friends Church in Traverse City offers a serene environment for worship and community events. Founded in 1895, it features distinctive architecture and a welcoming atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for maintenance.

Front Street

9:00 AM-8:00 PM

Sights

Traverse City

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Front Street is the main street in Traverse City. It features shops, restaurants, and local art, giving visitors a taste of the city's culture.

Duration: approx. 2-3 hours

Free

Mission Point Lighthouse

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Lighthouse

20500 Center Rd

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Mission Point Lighthouse is an iconic lighthouse located on the Old Mission Peninsula in Traverse City. It offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and features a beautiful white tower with a red roof that adds charm to the area.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free