YOU, ME & NORTHERN MICHIGAN?
Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City transforms into a romantic haven in the fall, with its crisp air and vibrant foliage setting the perfect backdrop for a getaway. Couples can indulge in wine tastings at charming vineyards, stroll hand-in-hand along scenic beaches, and savor delicious farm-to-table dining experiences. Whether you’re exploring quaint downtown shops or enjoying a cozy evening by a fire, Traverse City offers a magical escape for lovers seeking the ultimate mix of adventure and relaxation. Learn more in this comprehensive travel guide to Traverse City, filled with insider tips to make the most of your romantic fall getaway.
Know Before You Go:
- Best Time to Visit in the Fall: The foliage begins to change mid-September and typically peaks the second week of October (depending on the temperature). Fall is the best time to visit as summer crowds have thinned and the changing season offers stunning views of the vibrant leaves, perfect for scenic drives and outdoor activities. Additionally, fall is harvest season, making it an ideal time to explore local wineries, orchards, and farms, as well as enjoy seasonal festivals and events.
- How Much Time to Spend: Traverse City is the perfect long weekend destination, but you could easily spend 4-5 days exploring nearby areas such as Leelanau Peninsula and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. If you have the time, slow down and enjoy all that this unique area has to offer!
- Getting to Traverse City: The most convenient way to reach Traverse City is by flying into Cherry Capital Airport, located a short drive from downtown. You’ll find a surprisingly wide selection of regional flights, with direct connections to over a dozen major airports across the country. Alternatively, you can fly into Detroit (3.5-hour drive away) or Chicago (5.5 hour drive). While the journey is long, the stunning scenery as you head North will make the drive worthwhile.
- Getting Around: A car is essential to make the most of your time in Traverse City. While the downtown area is easily walkable, you will have a difficult time exploring the beautiful surrounding areas without your own transportation.
COUPLES TRAVEL GUIDE TO TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN: FALL EDITION
THINGS TO DO IN TRAVERSE CITY:
Wine Tasting on Old Mission Peninsula
Often referred to as the Napa Valley of the Midwest, Northern Michigan is renowned for its wine region, especially during the fall season, when the colorful foliage creates a truly magical backdrop. A picturesque 19-mile stretch of land, Old Mission Peninsula features sweeping vineyards, gently-rolling hills, and stunning views of crystal-clear bays on both sides.
With the closest wineries located only a few minutes from downtown, I highly recommend taking a leisurely drive along Center Road to Mission Point Lighthouse. Immerse yourself in the vibrant fall colors and enjoy yourself at a winery or two along the way. With an abundance of wineries to choose from there’s something for everyone’s palate. Here are my favorite wineries to explore on your way:
- Mari Vineyards • A few minutes outside Traverse City, Mari Vineyards exudes charm with its Italian flair. The estate features a stunning hillside setting overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay, where you can unwind in an Adirondack chair and savor a diverse selection of wines. For a truly cozy experience, return on Tuesdays and Thursdays to enjoy live music by the fireplace.
- Bonobo Winery • A lively, boutique winery that should not be missed. Known for its delicious wines and knowledgeable staff — look out for the charming gentleman named Chris — you can opt for a formal tasting or simply grab a glass at the bar and explore the beautiful grounds. The westward-facing deck and patio offer amazing views of the vineyards, making Bonobo the ideal spot to unwind and watch the sunset.
If you’d prefer to relax and leave the driving to someone else, several bus tours are available to take you from winery to winery. The highest-rated option in the area is The Magic Shuttle Bus, ensuring you can indulge in all the fun without worrying about a designated driver.
In addition to the wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, you’ll find fantastic options on the nearby Leelanau Peninsula and around Suttons Bay. The following wineries come highly recommended by locals:
- Shady Lane Cellars • Recommended by a local wine connoisseur, Shady Lane is nestled in the picturesque countryside and offers handcrafted wines in a cozy tasting room.
- Ciccone Vineyard & Winery • Owned by Madonna’s family, this winery provides not only great wines but also the chance to spot Madonna’s father.
- Bel Lago Vineyards • Ideal for enjoying the vibrant autumn colors from its cozy outdoor setting.
Scenic Hiking & Biking Trails
As the crisp fall air sweeps into Traverse City, the landscape bursts into a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors, making it an ideal time for hiking and biking adventures. Depending on how you like to spend your time, here are my top recommendation for hiking and biking trails in the area:
- Empire Bluff Trail (Short) • An absolute must-do, Empire Bluff Trail is just a scenic 35-minute drive from downtown Traverse City. This moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back hike takes about 35 minutes round trip, though you’ll want to budget extra time to soak in the lakeshore views. The trail winds through a colorful forest before leading you to a high coastal bluff, offering iconic vistas of the double dune!
- Pyramid Point (Medium) • Located in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Pyramid Point is a tranquil trail that winds through historic farm fields and beech-maple forests, leading to a stunning lookout over Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands. The hike is 1.2 miles to the viewpoint or 2.7 miles for the full loop.
- Boardman Lake Trail (Long) • A picturesque 4.3-mile loop in downtown Traverse City that winds through lush woodlands and along the shores of Boardman Lake. This is the perfect trail for both hikers and bikers to immerse themselves in the vibrant fall foliage.
- Leelanau TART Trail (Longer) • Stretching from Traverse City to Suttons Bay, this 17-mile trail weaves through sleepy Northern Michigan vineyards, forests, and farmland with minimal car encounters, making it a favorite for cyclists.
Shopping
Just a block from the water is Traverse City’s vibrant shopping district: Front Street. Front Street is full of charming shops, cozy cafes, and local eateries – a few of my favorite shops include: Cherry Republic (the ultimate store for all things cherry), Harbor View Lavender (pick up a jar of their heavenly lavender body butter), Horizon Books, and Traverse City Spice & Tea Merchants. If you’re looking for a scenic drive, Suttons Bay is another quaint town located 25 minutes up the bay, with plenty more shops to explore.
HOTEL STAYS IN TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN:
Delamar Traverse City
A luxurious lakeside resort with modern rooms and extra amenities. Couples can enjoy cozy evenings by the fire, beach strolls, and relaxing spa treatments. Delamar is my topic pick for those looking to make their romantic getaway extra special.
Hotel Indigo
A modern boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Traverse City. Couples can enjoy the rooftop bar, cozy up near the fireplace, and easily stroll to nearby shops and restaurants.
The Baywatch Resort
A boutique resort with cozy lakeside suites, private balconies, a sandy beach, and stunning East Bay views. The Baywatch Resort is the perfect stay for couples looking for a quiet retreat by the water.
Unlock exclusive perks by booking your trip with me!
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK:
Breakfast
- Bubbie’s Bagels • Customize your own breakfast sandwich with freshly baked bagels made from scratch each morning. Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee to go and take a quick stroll to the water for a perfect breakfast by the shore.
- Frenchie’s Famous • Local hidden gem known for its unbeatable comfort food and quirky atmosphere.
- Playa Bowls • If you’re a fellow açai lover, Playa Bowls is a must visit for delicious smoothies & bowls.
Lunch & Dinner
- Slabtown Burgers • A beloved local eatery known for its mouthwatering, handcrafted burgers. Don’t skip out on the sweet potato fries or milkshakes!
- Jolly Pumpkin • Cozy brewpub known for its artisanal craft beers and creative pizzas. Perfect place to stop for lunch between wineries on Old Mission.
- Farm Club • A must visit! Unique indoor/outdoor dining destination that focuses on seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine and connecting guests with the land and local farmers. Located right off the Leelanau TART trail, this is the perfect spot for a lunch break on your bike ride! Make sure to try the seasonal onion rings.
- Flying Noodle • Delicious Italian food in the heart of downtown known for their great happy hour.
- Boathouse Restaurant • A casual yet refined dinner spot on Old Mission Peninsula, offering stunning views of Bowers Harbor (make a reservation for sunset!).
- PepeNero • Perfect for a date night. This romantic spot offers upscale Sicilian cuisine crafted from fresh, seasonal produce.
Treats
- Moomers • A local obsession! Voted “Best Ice Cream Shop in America” by Good Morning America, Moomers is a must visit if you’re in a need of a sweet treat. Their signature flavor is Cherries Moobile, a luxurious combination of black cherry ice cream with a chocolate fudge swirl, brownie pieces and local Michigan cherries. Yum!
Beer Gardens & Cider Houses
- Hop Lot Brewing Co. & Beer Garden • Voted the #2 Beer Garden in the US, Hop Lot truly deserves the top spot for its idyllic fall atmosphere. Tucked away among the trees, this brewery boasts an impressive selection of craft beers, outdoor yard games, and inviting fire pits, along with a cozy indoor taproom that’s perfect for catching a football game.
- Suttons Bay Ciders • Charming cider house that offers a variety of handcrafted ciders, including traditional apple ciders and fruit-infused flavors like cherry, raspberry, and peach. They also offer seasonal selections and specialty blends that highlight the region’s local produce.
SEASONAL EVENTS IN THE FALL:
- September: Harvest Days • A month-long celebration that takes place on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. Locals, visitors and wine club members can receive exclusive benefits such as complimentary tastings and discounts at participating wineries.
- September & October: Sara Hardy Downtown Farmer’s Market • Wednesdays from 8am – 12pm and Saturdays from 7:30am – 12pm in Rotary Square
- October: Downtown Traverse City’s Halloween Walk
- November: Traverse City Beer Week • A week-long event featuring experimental beers, drink specials and a self-guided tour of local breweries and restaurants.
Life’s too short so let’s go somewhere! Reach out to customize and book your own Northern Michigan experience or to chat about travel in general. Traverse City is the ultimate fall getaway destination to spark a little romance, relaxation and fun. I hope your trip is truly unforgettable.
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