8 days in Traverse City 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.

You'll get in some beach time at Clinch Park and Lake Michigan Beach Park. Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Bowers Harbor Vineyards and Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf. Change things up with these side-trips from Traverse City: Thompsonville (Michigan Legacy Art Park & Iron Fish Distillery), Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club (in Arcadia) and Frankfort (Point Betsie Lighthouse & Frankfort Beach). There's lots more to do: do a tasting at 45 North Vineyard & Winery, admire the masterpieces at Dennos Museum Center, sample the tasty concoctions at Right Brain Brewery, and relax and rejuvenate at Yoga in the Vines.

For more things to do, ratings, maps, and other tourist information, refer to the Traverse City road trip planner.

Rochester Hills to Traverse City is an approximately 4-hour car ride. You can also drive. Traveling from Rochester Hills in July, plan for a bit cooler nights in Traverse City, with lows around 59°F. You'll have a few hours on the 24th (Sat) to wrap things up before traveling home.