Shoreline and Natural Areas
Grand Traverse County has more than 1,600 acres of parkland and 20 miles of trails. Maple Bay Natural Area shows just how varied these landscapes can be: it covers 450 acres, and its trails lead to 2,586 feet of shoreline on East Grand Traverse Bay. Several endangered plant species are found in sensitive areas. On the eastern arm of Grand Traverse Bay, Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park has a sandy beach a quarter of a mile long. At Maple Bay, the trails and shoreline take center stage; at the state park, its location on the bay and the length of its beach are the defining landmarks.
At the Natural Education Reserve, a network of trails spans more than 500 acres in the Boardman-Ottaway River valley. On the same river, Beitner Park serves as a launch and takeout for paddlecraft. This means visitors can explore both trails through a river valley and access to the water. Power Island is designated as a quiet nature preserve, with ten primitive campsites.
Trails for Different Interests
Medalie Park is the southern trailhead of the mostly paved Boardman Lake Loop Trail. Civic Center Park offers a different option, with a one-mile walking path. Several outdoor concerts are held in the park’s amphitheater in summer. The TART Trail is on a larger scale: a 10.5-mile paved corridor for transportation and recreation in the city. Its eastern terminus is at M-72/Bates Road in Acme Township; to the west, it ends at Carter Road in Traverse City, where it connects with the Leelanau Trail.
The Vasa Pathway has 3K, 5K, 10K and 25K loops. The different distances make it easy to choose a route based on length. Activities there include cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking, cycling, running and walking, as well as snowshoeing. Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area adds to the options, with hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing available year-round.
Museums, Music and History
The Dennos Museum Center includes three changing exhibition galleries, a sculpture court and an interactive Discovery Gallery. The Milliken Auditorium, a 367-seat concert hall, hosts an annual concert series focused on world music, jazz and blues. The program also includes NMC and community events.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons was formerly the Traverse City State Hospital. An exclusive tour takes visitors through an 1883 brick tunnel. Because tour availability depends on the date of your visit, it’s a good idea to check in advance whether it’s offered on your chosen date.
Wine and Tastings
Mari Vineyards offers guided wine tastings and curated wine flights. Behind-the-scenes tours introduce visitors to the production facility and underground wine caves. One culinary option combines a guided cave tour with a seated tasting afterward, paired wines and seasonal culinary creations. If you’re planning a tasting or tour, it’s best to check current dates and reservation options.
Explore more destinations: Traverse City, Fife Lake, Ontonagon County, Dickinson County, Alger County, Lenawee County, Iron County, Roscommon County.
For the broader travel overview: Michigan.
