Things to Do Near Traverse City Michigan That Are Actually Worth the Drive
- Tony Albert
- 7 hours ago
- 4 min read
Things to do near Traverse City Michigan aren’t hard to find—but the real question is what’s actually worth getting in the car for.
You’ve got beaches, wineries, and a solid downtown. But once you start heading out of the city, that’s where things change.
You’ll find massive dunes, quiet lakes, small towns that still feel real, and a few stops most people miss completely.
If you’re already in Traverse City, these are the places that justify the drive.
Best Things to Do Near Traverse City Michigan
Not every place around Traverse City is worth the time it takes to get there. Some look good on a map but don’t offer much once you arrive.
The spots below are different. These are the places where the drive actually adds to the experience—whether it’s a view that stops you, a town that feels untouched, or a stretch of shoreline that looks nothing like you expected.
If you’re going to spend the time getting out of the city, these are the ones that deliver.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
If you only pick one place on this list, make it Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
This is one of those places that doesn’t fully make sense until you’re standing there.
Huge dunes drop straight toward Lake Michigan, and the views stretch out in a way that feels more like the West Coast than the Midwest.
There are a few ways to experience it:
Take the scenic drive and stop at the overlooks
Try the dune climb (harder than it looks)
Find a quieter trail or beach access point
Why It’s Worth the Drive
It’s not just a stop—it’s something you’ll remember long after the trip.
Leland and Fishtown
Head north and you’ll hit Leland, home to the historic Fishtown district.
This isn’t a polished, built-for-tourists area.
It’s an old fishing village that still feels like one. Weathered buildings sit right on the water, and you can walk through narrow paths between them while boats move in and out of the harbor.
You’ll find:
Small shops inside original shanties
Fresh fish spots
Simple, authentic waterfront views
Why It’s Worth the Drive
It feels real. Not overbuilt, not crowded with chains—just a place that’s stayed the same.
Old Mission Peninsula
David Ball, Attribution, via Wikimedia Commons
Just north of Traverse City, Old Mission Peninsula is one of the easiest and most rewarding drives in the area.
You’ve got water on both sides of the road, vineyards throughout the peninsula, and plenty of spots to stop without feeling rushed.
Along the way you can:
Visit local wineries
Stop at Mission Point Lighthouse
Pull off for lake views almost anywhere
Why It’s Worth the Drive
You can fill an entire day without driving far or overplanning anything.
Empire Bluffs Trail
English: NPS Photo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Near Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire Bluffs Trail is one of the simplest hikes with one of the best payoffs.
The trail itself is manageable for most people. You walk through a wooded path, and then it opens up to a high bluff overlooking Lake Michigan.
Why It’s Worth the Drive
Short hike, big reward. You don’t have to work hard to get one of the best views in the area.
Torch Lake
About 45 minutes from Traverse City, Torch Lake stands out for one reason—the water.
On a clear day, it’s bright turquoise and almost doesn’t look like it belongs in Michigan.
Best ways to experience it:
Rent a boat
Visit the sandbar
Find a public access point and spend some time along the shore
Why It’s Worth the Drive
It’s different from everything else around here—and that’s what makes it worth it.
Glen Arbor
Right near Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Arbor is a small town that works perfectly as a stop before or after exploring the area.
It’s easy to walk, easy to park, and doesn’t feel rushed.
You’ll find:
Local shops
Casual food spots
A relaxed pace compared to busier areas
Why It’s Worth the Drive
It’s an easy add-on that makes the day feel more complete.
Frankfort and Point Betsie Lighthouse
Most people don’t go this far—and that’s exactly why it’s worth it.
Frankfort has a great beach and a quieter harbor feel, and nearby Point Betsie Lighthouse sits right along Lake Michigan with wide open views.
Why It’s Worth the Drive
Less crowded, same lake views, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Lars Lentz, CC BY-SA 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick Day Trip Plan
If you want to stack a full day without overthinking it, use this:
Morning: Sleeping Bear Dunes
Midday: Stop in Glen Arbor
Afternoon: Empire Bluffs Trail
Evening: Leland and Fishtown
That gives you a full day where every stop actually delivers.
Common Questions
How far should you drive from Traverse City?
Most of the best spots are within 30 to 60 minutes.
Is Sleeping Bear Dunes really worth it?
Yes. It’s the one place that feels completely different from everything else in the area.
Are these good for families?
Yes. Most stops are easy to access, and you can adjust based on how much time and energy you have.
Final Take
The best things to do near Traverse City Michigan aren’t all in the city itself.
Once you start driving, that’s where the views open up, the crowds thin out, and the experience actually feels like a trip—not just a stop.
If you’re already here, don’t stay put.
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