We were blessed with a year of travel last year. Making it a point to do several two- or three-night trips within driving distance, our second to last trip last year was to Traverse City. We got up north just in time for peak fall colors . . . and it was breathtaking! Truly something a photo could never capture.
Traverse City is a perfect family-friendly getaway for all seasons. With its beautiful beaches, wonderful natural wonders, plethora of amazing restaurants, and fantastic ski resorts within a short drive, it really is a year-round destination. Come along with our family as we recap our adventure and share some of our favorites from the Cherry Capital.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
1:00-4:00 p.m. | Manistee National Forest | Kings Hwy, Luther, 49656
We recently got a Jeep Wrangler so we made a pit stop to take it driving on one of the ORV trails. Manistee National Forest also has many wonderful hiking trails!
7:00-8:00 p.m. | Blue Tractor BBQ | 423 S Union St, Traverse City, 49684
This was a great and quick, easy, sit down-style restaurant to end our long day. To this day, it has the best chips and queso I have ever had!
8:30 p.m. | Tru Hotel | 3572 N US31 S, Traverse City, 49684
We spent our first two nights at Tru. This is a fantastic, affordable, modern hotel for families. It offers free breakfast and a fun common area with foosball and games.
Day 2
9:00 a.m. | Tru Hotel
Tru offers free breakfast. Any way I can save money during our travels is a plus in our book! They also have the coolest pancake maker I have ever seen at a hotel.
10:00 a.m. | Great Lakes Children’s Museum | 13240 S. West Bay Shore Dr., Traverse City, 49684
We had a day full of hiking planned but with cold rain all day in the forecast, we had to switch things up a bit. We headed to the Children’s Museum and the kids had a blast playing all morning.
1:00 p.m. | Tru Hotel
I had packed lunch to bring, so we ate back at the hotel and allowed the kids a little time to rest.
2:00 p.m. | Sleeping Bear Dunes | 9922 Front Street, Empire, 49630
With a small break in the rain we headed out to Sleeping Bear Dunes Park. The views were breathtaking but I will note, this is NOT the hike you want to take where you see that steep drop off you see on Instagram or TikTok. We learned this after we climbed eight dunes.
4:00 p.m. | Sleeping Bear Dunes | Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive
After much research, my husband found where everyone was climbing up and down the steep dune. After a few drive off scenic looks we finally got to that insta-worthy view, and all I can say is . . . WOW!
6:00 p.m. | Hop Lot |658 S W Bay Shore Dr., Suttons Bay, 49682
This was one of the most recommended breweries to try out with kids. We ended up having to eat inside due to the rain, but I can only imagine the fun it would be for a family during nice weather!
Day 3
9:00 a.m. | Tru Hotel
We again started out our day with breakfast at the hotel.
10:00 a.m. | Mission Point Light House | 20500 Center Rd, Traverse City, 49686
We made our way up Old Mission Peninsula to the lighthouse and Hessler Log Cabin. For a small fee, we were able to climb to the top of the lighthouse.
12:00 p.m. | The Little Fleet |448 E Front St., Traverse City, 49686
Our best friend made the drive up for the night and we met for lunch at The Little Fleet. This is an awesome option for families and groups because it allows everyone to choose what they want from the different food trucks!
2:00 p.m. | Great Wolf Lodge | 3575 N US 31 S, Traverse City 49684
We checked in early and our rooms were ready, so we unpacked and then headed to the water park.
7:00 p.m. | Hungry as a Wolf
We ordered pizza and took it back to our room for dinner.
8:00 p.m. | Ten Paw Alley
Great Wolf Lodge has mini bowling, which was perfect for our toddlers.
9:00 p.m. | Great Wolf Lodge
Our night ended with a spooky dance party.
Day 4
9:00 a.m. | Camp Critter
We woke up and had the buffet breakfast. They also had made-to-order omelets!
10:00 a.m. | Great Wolf Lodge
We spent the rest of our morning at the water park.
1:00 p.m. | Chic-fil-A | 2700 N US Highway 31 S, Traverse City, 49684
We did a quick lunch at Chic-fil-A before we made our trek back to Metro Detroit.
Attractions You Must Visit
Great Lakes Children’s Museum
With water features, indoor slides, and lots of pretend play, kids can have fun for hours.
Mission Point Lighthouse
A beautiful spot at the point of the peninsula.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
One of the many great natural wonders of our state–it is definitely something to see in your lifetime!
Favorite Coffee Shops
Higher Grounds Coffee | 806 Red Dr, Ste 150, Traverse City, 49684
Coffee that is roasted on-site, which can be enjoyed inside or on the patio. They also offer kids coco and steamer drinks.
Morsels | 321 E Front St., Traverse City, 49684
Coffee, espresso, and quick eats such as 2-bite treats, sandwiches, and yogurt parfaits.
Mundos Roasting and Co | Multiple locations
With three locations to serve Traverse City, they fresh roast their coffee beans each Tuesday. Their crepes look amazing!
Favorite Date Night Spots
Chateau Chantal |15900 Rue de Vin, Traverse City, 49686
With one of the most breathtaking views on Old Mission Peninsula, this is is the perfect spot for loved ones to enjoy one of the tasting experiences.
Firefly Kitchen & Bars | 310 Cass St., Traverse City, 49684
From super creative small plates and sushi to many burgers and sandwiches, this place can tantalize any taste bud. They also offer a large cocktail menu.
Trattoria Stella | 830 Cottageview Drive, Suite G01, Traverse City, 49684
Set in the former state hospital, this fine dining Italian restaurant offers both amazing food and architectural history . . . and perhaps a little paranormal activity.
Favorite Kid-Friendly Spots
Hop Lot Brewing
With the brewery set back into the woods, their beer garden offers fire pits and outdoor games–all in a beautiful setting.
Jacob’s Farm | 7100 E Traverse Highway, Traverse City 49684
A 40-acre farm that offers amazing food and drinks, live music, and a corn maze.
The Little Fleet
Several food trucks surrounded the outdoor seating area, allowing groups to pick the food style of their choice. They also offer a full bar.
Favorite Places for Sweet Treats
Common Good Bakery | Multiple locations
There are two locations in Traverse City to feed your heart and soul, both savory and sweet.
Milk and Honey | 240 E Front St., Traverse City, 49684
100% homemade ice cream with flavors that vary from birthday cake to cherries jubilee. They also offer vegan, keto, and sugar free options!
Peace, Love, and Little Donuts | 441 E Front St., Traverse City, 49686
There is nothing quite like a fresh homemade donut–but it’s even better if it is topped with fruity pebbles or maple bacon. Sign me up!
Restaurants You’ll Love
Blue Tractor | 423 S Union St, Traverse City, 49684
An awesome BBQ spot with options to have your smoked meat on a sandwich, as an entree, in a bowl, or on a salad.
Bubba’s | 428 E Front St., Traverse City, 49686
Known for their extensive burger and sandwich options. Everyone I talked to said to be sure to try their sweet potato tots!
The Filling Station | 642 Railroad Pl., Traverse City, 49686
The Filling Station has a large flatbread pizza menu with the option to build your own flatbread!
Bonus Tips to Traverse City
- Don’t let the rainy days in the fall get you down. Just be sure to bring the kids’ rain/snow clothes!
- You can go from city, to beachfront, to wilderness within a few miles. Pinpoint what you would like to do on your trip to determine where best to stay.
- Traverse City is an all-seasons destination. Be sure to visit during different times of the year to take in all it has to offer!
