Traverse City Michigan relies on tourism as a main focus of industry, and no doubt it is easy to understand why. Stunning views year round are everywhere to be found, and the area's rolling hills and nearby National Lakeshore at Lake Michigan are just the tip of what belies this second most popular tourist destination in Michigan. Come here in the winter, when a healthy amount of snow makes it perfect for outdoor recreation, including some of the best Michigan skiing found nearby. Or plan a summer escape to fully enjoy the freshwater beaches, some superb Michigan golf, and local Michigan wineries. Fall color tours compliment the season, and in the spring, as the snow retreats, the thousands of acres of surrounding forests renew their splendor. There really isn't a bad time to plan your Traverse City vacation at the often proclaimed "Cherry Capital of the World".

Over eight days in the month of July you'll find one of the top Michigan events of the summer, the Traverse City Cherry Festival. The first Traverse City Cherry Festival was held in 1926, and today over 500,000 people come to Traverse City each year to enjoy this promotion of cherries, tourism and overall community involvement. It truly is a family affair, where kids can engross themselves in a number of activities. The open park atmosphere encourages family gathering at the free entertainment square. Downtown, three annual parades roll through the streets and nighttime fireworks fill the sky. Traverse City Cherry Festival cultural attractions include the Traverse City Symphony Orchestra, an arts and crafts fair, wine tasting, and other musical performances at the Open Space Park.

The people of Traverse City are passionate about their food, and you'll want to dine out here to take advantage of the local bounties to be found, including area morel mushrooms, homegrown cherries and apples, and the fresh whitefish, perch and salmon from area waters. For accommodations, Traverse City hotels aren't the only option. You'll also find motels, cottages, condominiums, lovely Michigan bed and breakfasts and some of the best Michigan resorts.

Michigan Map

Home to one of the very few maritime academies in the United States, your summer Traverse City vacation should include enjoyment of the many boating opportunities found at Traverse City Michigan. Navigable waters surround town, as the city finds itself moored at the base of the twin Grand Traverse Bays. Marinas and boat rentals are part of the scene here, and offer a bunch of different rentals to get out on the pristine water. Another way to drink up fun at the lake is the can't miss Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. In fact, the sandy shoreline beaches and crystal clear lakes found in and around Traverse City Michigan are perhaps the most stunning features found in the area, so plan to involve them in your summer Traverse City Vacation. Golf Traverse City in the summer as well, one of the top six golf destinations in the country, according to Golf Magazine. You'll find designs by Nicklaus, Palmer, Player, Doak, and Weiskopf amidst a backdrop of woods, water and hills that will leave you awestruck. Golf Traverse City, and you'll get the full experience.

As for the winter, there may likely be nowhere else in the Midwest to better enjoy the season. The snowfall here is prodigious, and it allows for a full array of activities. The Hickory Hills and Mount Holiday ski resorts can be found right at Traverse City Michigan, and the highly rated Crystal Mountain ski slopes are just south of town. Together, these runs challenge the beginner as well as the more advanced skier or snowboarder. Miles of cross-country and snowshoe trails will burn those winter calories, and snowmobiling out into the surrounding terrain offers an exhilarating way to find solitude. Between playing outdoors in this winter wonderland, head inside at over 35 museums and art galleries. There are 26 Michigan casinos, and you'll find two near Traverse City for all your gaming fun, and there is a wide array of shopping opportunities from area malls to quaint shops. Book your next vacation at Traverse City Michigan, and you will be glad you did.