Traverse City, Michigan Summer Vacation

Traverse City, Michigan is a popular vacation destination for a reason. Here are some of the best reasons to visit this summer. Traverse City is more than just romance and cherries.

Reason to Vacation Traverse City, Michigan #1 - The Sleeping Bear Dunes

The Sleeping Bear Dunes are a wonder to behold. There is nothing quite like running down this mountain of sand as fast as you can. In the surrounding park, there are breathtaking views to be had. There are also simply stunning views of Lake Michigan to behold. Sleeping Bear Dunes State Park is approximately ten miles from Traverse City. If you want to explore the dunes along Lake Michigan, you can make an entire day of it, the park is that large and the dunes are that large. There is nothing quite like the combination of sun, sand, and water. Also, don't forget to bring your camera. You could miss out on some stunning pictures.

Reason to Vacation Traverse City, Michigan #2 - Lake Michigan

Whether you decide to visit Lake Michigan by enjoying the Sleeping Bear Dunes lakeshore, or you go boating from Grand Traverse Bay, you can't help but enjoy Lake Michigan. More of an inland sea than a lake, Lake Michigan offers plenty of opportunity for exploration, fun in the sun, and all types of water sports. In addition to Lake Michigan, there is Grand Traverse Bay. Between the two, there are miles of interesting lakeshore to explore. In the area there are several small inlets and islands. Grand Traverse Bay is the largest inlet in the area.

Reason to Vacation Traverse City, Michigan #3 - Proximity to other great locations

There are a lot of lesser know vacation spots near Traverse City. Small cities such as Boyne City, Gaylord, and Glen Arbor all offer the same recreational opportunities, are less crowded, and provide less costly alternatives to popular recreational opportunities. While it might be less costly to stay in a smaller town, you can't miss Traverse City. You truly can have the best of all worlds by lodging in a smaller town, exploring Traverse City, and then take advantage of all of the other amenities that the area has to offer. There are so many small towns in the area with unique things to do and explore that you could spend all summer in the area and not get bored, or experience the same thing twice.

Reason to Vacation Traverse City, Michigan #4 - Nearby inland lakes and rivers

In the area surrounding Traverse City, the inland lakes and rivers are too numerous to list here. If you are intimidated by boating on the Great Lakes, there are many smaller waterways that cater to vacationers. That includes Grand Traverse Bay. In addition, you might wish to consider a camping and canoeing trip on one of the many rivers in the area. Some rivers, such as the Platte River, offer opportunities for those seeking more excitement, as well as those wishing for a calmer canoeing experience. The entire system of inlets, rivers, and inland lakes would take several weeks, if not months, to explore.

Reason to Vacation Traverse City, Michigan #5 - Lots of great golf courses

Traverse City, Boyne, and the surrounding area are full of golf courses, including some award winning courses. You can find a course to fit into any budget. It just might take a little search. Golfing is actually one of the biggest attractions in the area and it isn't difficult to get tee times (except on the most exclusive courses). If you are a novice golfer, or have never golfed before, you might want to consider taking lessons or going to a driving range first. If you have kids and they don't golf, you can always take them putt-putt golfing. There are several fun putt-putt golf places in the area as well. In fact, in Gaylord, near the Call of the Wild Museum, they have a putt-putt golf course and go-kart track. It makes for a great day trip from Traverse City and is relatively inexpensive. Many putt-putt golf courses in Michigan also have go-karts and batting cages.

Reason to Vacation Traverse City, Michigan #6 - Something for everyone

Traverse City also boasts many resorts, spas, and bed and breakfast facilities. If you don't want to participate in an activity with the rest of your family or group, you can surely find something to peak your interests. There are many historic sites in Traverse City and the surrounding area. If nothing else, Mackinaw City, Boyne, Charlevoix, and Gaylord aren't far away. If you love shopping for antiques, the area has a lot of smaller, seasonal antique stores that aren't highly publicized. Traverse City truly does have something for everyone. Even something as simple as a road trip around the area is enjoyable due to the scenery of the inland lakes, rivers, and miles of Lake Michigan shoreline.

If you are considering a Traverse City Michigan vacation this summer, look beyond the most obvious choices for lodging, dining, and entertainment. The area has much more to offer. If you do plan on attending the Cherry Festival in July, be prepared to make reservations well in advance. Alternatives to the more popular choices for lodging will probably have to be considered. If you do go to Traverse City, Michigan this summer, take time to make the drive to the Mackinaw Bridge and Mackinaw City. It is approximately 45 minutes to an hour away, but is well worth the trip.