9 Traverse City Staycation Ideas
We’re always sad to see our tasting room slow down after the hustle and bustle of summer, but this time of year is perfect for locals, like us, to take a staycation. Be it for just a day or a long weekend, there is plenty to keep you busy in this beautiful place.
Try some of these activities to make the most of all that Traverse City’s tourism experience has to offer!
Bike the TART Trail
Traverse City is home to a world class network of bike paths, with over 100 miles of regional trails throughout the TART Trails network. Ride the Leelanau Trail through the picturesque countryside to Suttons Bay. Stop in town for lunch and a view of the bay. Feeling tired after the ride? Take the BATA Bus back to town!
See a Movie
Rain got you down on your planned staycation day? Traverse City’s two non-profit movie theaters (The State Theater & Bijou by the Bay) are the perfect answer with something to fit any movie tastes! We recommend grabbing a quick bite downtown then catching a flick at the idyllically located Bijou.
Pick Your Own Apples
Michigan ranks third in the country for apple production, meaning that September in Michigan is the perfect time to take advantage of the bounty. Head out to the nearest orchard to bask in the beauty and pick your own apples!
Get Out on the Water
September is a great time to take advantage of our beautiful waterways while the water is at its warmest and the weather hasn’t fully turned to fall. Get out on the water even if you don’t own a boat with one of the area’s many options for rentals and cruises. Staying on land more your style? Visit one of the countless beaches dotting our shoreline.
Go for a Hike
The water isn’t our only natural beauty. Miles of wooded trails offer endless opportunities to go for a hike. We love heading to the Old Mission Lighthouse, Brown Bridge Quiet Area, The Commons, or Leelanau State Park for a day in the woods.
Treat Yourself to a Nice Meal Out
We’re blessed with an incredible array of restaurants in our small town, and a staycation is the perfect time to treat yourself to a meal out. Choose a restaurant that is a bit of a splurge and don’t forget to order a glass of local wine to accompany your meal!
Visit a Farmers Market
The crowds disperse from local farmers markets this time of year, but the harvest season brings more produce than ever! In addition to local fruits and vegetables, find incredible meats, cheeses, baked goods, flowers and so much more. There are markets every day of the week – get a full list here.
Drive out Old Mission Peninsula
It should come as little surprise that we’re big fans of the beautiful Old Mission Peninsula. From sweeping views of Grand Traverse Bay to the breathtaking drive through vineyards and orchards, this place is sure to delight. Take a day to explore the peninsula – turn down that back road, stop at the parks, and of course taste some wine!
Visit Chateau Grand Traverse
No Traverse City staycation is complete without a little time spent sipping wine on the Chateau Grand Traverse patio overlooking the vines and the water. Stop in to taste our wines then choose a bottle to share on our patio or bring home and enjoy in your own space. Sit back and relax, this is a staycation after all!