About Traverse City
Traverse City is a city in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is the county seat of Grand Traverse County, although it partly extends into Leelanau County. The city's population was 15,678 at the 2020 census, while the four-county Traverse City metropolitan area had 153,448 residents. Traverse City is the largest city in Northern Michigan.
Places to visit in Traverse City
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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Nature · 22 mi from centreWest of town, huge sand dunes rise above Lake Michigan, with the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, the Dune Climb and quiet beaches offering memorable views.
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Old Mission Peninsula
Nature · 9 mi from centreA narrow peninsula dividing Grand Traverse Bay, lined with vineyards, cherry orchards and tasting rooms, and ending at the historic Mission Point Lighthouse with short trails and beach access.
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Downtown Traverse City
NeighborhoodFront Street and the surrounding blocks are packed with independent shops, cafes, breweries and restaurants, just steps from the bay and the historic State Theatre movie house.
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Clinch Park
BeachA downtown waterfront park on West Grand Traverse Bay with a sandy beach, marina and splash pad, and it is a central spot during the summer cherry festival.
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Grand Traverse Commons
Historic · 1 mi from centreThe grand Victorian buildings of a former state psychiatric hospital have been converted into shops, restaurants and homes, surrounded by walking trails through the wooded old grounds.
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Dennos Museum Center
Museum · 2 mi from centreAn art museum at Northwestern Michigan College with a notable collection of Inuit art, plus rotating exhibitions and a hands-on discovery gallery that appeals to younger visitors.
Where to stay in Traverse City
Popular hotels in Traverse City, out of 71 properties you can book.
Country Inn Suites By Radisson Traverse City Mi
From $83 per night
Pointes North Beachfront Hotel
From $96 per night
Cherry Tree Inn
From $108 per night
Hotel Indigo Traverse City
From $136 per night
Courtyard Traverse City
From $129 per night
Delamar Traverse City
From $222 per night
Bayshore Resort
From $86 per night
Park Place Hotel
From $99 per night
Best Western Plus Traverse City
From $107 per night
Cambria Hotel Traverse City
From $130 per night
Sugar Beach Resort Hotel
From $93 per night
Baymont By Wyndham Traverse City
From $82 per night
Best time to visit Traverse City
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Traverse City is July to September, when average daytime highs are around 73–79°F and rain falls on about 9 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Traverse City weather forecast
- Wed 21 Oct 64° 40° 2%
- Thu 22 Oct 64° 50° 2%
- Fri 23 Oct 68° 49° 0%
- Sat 24 Oct 69° 55° 0%
- Sun 25 Oct 62° 55° 5%
- Mon 26 Oct 55° 40° 8%
Know before you go
- Currency
- United States dollar (USD)
- Language
- English
- Calling code
- +1
- Driving
- On the right
- Time zone
- America/DetroitUTC−4
- Capital
- Washington, D.C.
Upcoming public holidays in United States
- Veterans Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- Presidents DayWashington's Birthday
Banks, offices and some attractions may close on public holidays, and flights and hotels often fill up early around them.
Getting to Traverse City
These are the airports closest to central Traverse City. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- TVC Cherry Capital Airport3 mi (4 km) from the city centre
Traverse City travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Traverse City?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Traverse City is July to September, when average daytime highs are around 73–79°F and rain falls on about 9 days a month.
What is the weather like in Traverse City?
July is usually the warmest month in Traverse City, with average highs of 79°F (26°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 19°F (-7°C). The wettest month is typically June, with about 134 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Traverse City?
Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) is the closest airport, about 3 miles (4 km) from the centre of Traverse City.
What time zone is Traverse City in?
Traverse City uses the America/Detroit time zone (currently UTC−4). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
What are the best places to visit in Traverse City?
Top sights in Traverse City include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Old Mission Peninsula, Downtown Traverse City and Clinch Park. West of town, huge sand dunes rise above Lake Michigan, with the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, the Dune Climb and quiet beaches offering memorable views.
Where should I stay in Traverse City?
Popular areas for hotels in Traverse City include Traverse City Area. Well-reviewed options include Country Inn Suites By Radisson Traverse City Mi and Pointes North Beachfront Hotel.
How many hotels can I book in Traverse City?
Destina Holidays currently lists 71 properties in and around Traverse City, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
