5 days in Traverse City & Frankfort Itinerary

Traverse City might be well known for its huge cherry industry, but its position along Grand Traverse Bay in Lake Michigan endows it with fine scenery and a wealth of outdoor attractions.

On the 25th (Wed), visit a coastal fixture at Mission Point Lighthouse, savor the flavors at Food & Drink, then look for gifts at American Spoon, and finally take a stroll through Front Street. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: contemplate the long history of Fishtown, explore the landscape on two wheels at Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trails, and then get a taste of the local shopping with The Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

For traveler tips, other places to visit, ratings, and other tourist information, refer to the Traverse City day trip planner .

Use the Route module to see travel options from your home to Traverse City. In September, daytime highs in Traverse City are 74°F, while nighttime lows are 54°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 26th (Thu) early enough to drive to Frankfort.

Frankfort is a city in Benzie County in the U.S. You've now added Point Betsie Lighthouse to your itinerary. On the 27th (Fri), contemplate the waterfront views at Crystal Lake, then enjoy the sea views from Point Betsie Lighthouse, then make a trip to The Frankfort Light, and finally view the masterpieces at Ellie Harold Art Studio & Gallery. On the 28th (Sat), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: trek along Empire Bluff Trail, appreciate the extensive heritage of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and then brush up on your knowledge of spirits at Iron Fish Distillery.

For where to stay, photos, and tourist information, use the Frankfort travel itinerary planner .

Getting from Traverse City to Frankfort by car takes about an hour. In September, daily temperatures in Frankfort can reach 71°F, while at night they dip to 53°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 29th (Sun) to allow time for the car ride back home.