Good to know: Visit and neighborhood recommendations in Traverse City
Traverse City is a four-season destination with a welcoming small-town charm and plenty of cultural and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore its award-winning wineries, take scenic drives along the Old Mission Peninsula, or relax on sandy beaches. The city hosts annual events such as the National Cherry Festival, attracting food lovers and festival-goers alike. Whether you prefer a lively downtown setting or a quiet retreat in nature, Traverse City has a neighborhood that suits your travel style.
Where to look for an Airbnb in Traverse City
Downtown Traverse City
Downtown Traverse City is the heart of the city, offering visitors a walkable area filled with boutique shops, breweries, and waterfront parks. Vacation rentals here range from stylish apartments to historic homes with modern amenities. Staying in this area means easy access to restaurants, art galleries, and live entertainment. It’s the perfect location for travelers who want to be at the center of the action.
Old Mission Peninsula
Old Mission Peninsula is known for its scenic vineyards, rolling hills, and stunning lake views. Airbnb options include charming vineyard cottages, luxury estates, and secluded cabins. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, scenic hikes, and breathtaking sunsets over Grand Traverse Bay. This area is perfect for those looking to experience Traverse City’s wine country and natural beauty.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a unique neighborhood featuring historic architecture, boutique shops, and beautiful trails. Vacation rentals here include stylish lofts and renovated historic buildings with plenty of charm. Visitors can explore local eateries, art galleries, and the preserved grounds of the former state hospital. It’s a great option for those who appreciate history and a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
East Bay
East Bay offers stunning waterfront rentals with access to sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Airbnb options here range from modern condos with panoramic views to cozy beach cottages. Visitors can enjoy paddleboarding, boating, and relaxing on the shoreline while still being close to downtown. East Bay is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Slabtown
Slabtown is a historic neighborhood offering a charming residential feel with close proximity to the waterfront and downtown. Vacation rentals here include classic homes, stylish townhouses, and boutique apartments. The area is known for its tree-lined streets, local bakeries, and friendly atmosphere. Slabtown is perfect for visitors looking for a quiet yet convenient stay.
What to do if you spend a vacation in Traverse City
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of Michigan’s most breathtaking natural attractions. Visitors can hike scenic trails, climb towering sand dunes, and enjoy sweeping views of Lake Michigan. The park also offers kayaking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Traverse City Wine Trail
Traverse City is home to some of Michigan’s best wineries, offering tastings and tours with stunning vineyard views. Visitors can explore wineries on the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, sampling local Rieslings and other cool-climate wines. Many wineries offer farm-to-table dining experiences and live music events. It’s the perfect activity for couples, wine lovers, and food enthusiasts.
Downtown Shopping and Dining
Downtown Traverse City is filled with unique shops, artisanal markets, and locally-owned restaurants. Visitors can browse bookstores, pick up handmade goods, or enjoy farm-to-table dining at top-rated eateries. The area also hosts food festivals and outdoor events throughout the year. It’s a great place to experience the city’s vibrant culture and culinary scene.
Grand Traverse Bay
Grand Traverse Bay offers a variety of water activities, from sailing and fishing to paddleboarding and swimming. Visitors can rent boats, take guided cruises, or simply relax on the bay’s sandy shores. The bay’s clear blue waters and picturesque landscapes make it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation. It’s a top destination for those looking to experience Michigan’s waterfront beauty.
The Dennos Museum Center
Art lovers will enjoy visiting the Dennos Museum Center, which features contemporary and Native American art exhibits. The museum showcases both local and international artists, offering an enriching cultural experience. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and rotating galleries throughout the year. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone interested in art and history.
Where to find a vacation rental near Traverse City
Charlevoix, Michigan
About an hour north of Traverse City, Charlevoix is a charming lakeside town known for its unique architecture and flower-lined streets. Visitors can explore the Mushroom Houses, walk along the marina, or shop in quaint downtown boutiques. Staying in a vacation rental in Charlevoix offers stunning lake views and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples or families looking for scenic beauty and relaxation.
Glen Arbor, Michigan
Just 40 minutes west, Glen Arbor sits near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and offers a cozy, outdoorsy retreat. Guests can kayak on Glen Lake, bike the Heritage Trail, or relax on Lake Michigan’s sandy beaches. Booking a vacation rental in Glen Arbor means enjoying nature at its best with a close-knit community vibe. It’s an ideal choice for hikers, beachgoers, and families alike.
Petoskey, Michigan
Roughly 90 minutes north, Petoskey is known for its historic charm, art galleries, and beautiful views of Little Traverse Bay. The downtown area is full of character, with stone buildings and inviting cafés. Choosing a vacation rental in Petoskey allows travelers to enjoy waterfront strolls and local events year-round. It’s a wonderful destination for all seasons, from summer sunsets to winter snowscapes.
Leland, Michigan
About 40 minutes northwest, Leland is a small harbor town with a rich fishing heritage and the historic Fishtown district. Booking a vacation rental in Leland offers a quaint setting with direct access to both Lake Michigan and Lake Leelanau. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, boutique shopping, and ferry trips to North Manitou Island. It’s an ideal getaway for those seeking coastal charm and culinary delights.
Manistee, Michigan
Roughly 75 minutes south, Manistee combines riverfront beauty with Victorian architecture and a quiet atmosphere. Guests can walk the Riverwalk, explore Manistee National Forest, or visit the historic Ramsdell Theatre. Staying in a vacation rental in Manistee provides a tranquil escape within reach of Lake Michigan’s shoreline. It’s a great spot for peaceful retreats and nature exploration.
Explore America's vast beaches and vibrant wine regions
Nestled along Lake Michigan's azure shores, known for its own sandy beaches that invite relaxation and adventure. From here, you can extend your coastal exploration to other enticing shores dotting the United States. Explore the charming beauty of the Chesapeake Bay by staying at vacation rentals in Cape Charles, where Victorian architecture meets serene waterfront views. Further south, the Gulf Coast's allure can be experienced with airbnb in Fort Myers, a paradise brimful of vibrant marine life and shell-laden beaches. Discover the Atlantic allure by opting for Melbourne Beach rentals, a place where endless waves surge against Floridian sands, offering sun-drenched days of pure escape.
This destination is also celebrated for its thriving wineries, nestled amid rolling hills and breathtaking vistas. Wine enthusiasts can continue their journey through America's flourishing viticulture with a visit to California’s esteemed wine regions. Engage in the rustic charm and tantalizing tastes by securing vacation rentals in Temecula, where scenic vineyard rows converge with sweeping mountain views. The Central Coast’s mild climate and diverse soils beckon with airbnb in San Luis Obispo, known for its warm hospitality and richly flavored wines. Lastly, marvel at the lush valleys of Sonoma County by choosing vacation rentals in Santa Rosa, where luxuriant fields and aromatic wine tastings await, adding another exquisite dimension to your oenophile adventure.