overlooking the lake, trees of reds, golds, yellows and oranges, sleeping bear in the background, courtesy Travers City Tourism
Traverse City
Welcome to Fall
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Traverse City

Traverse City is a special place, a place we return to time and time again. For others, it's your first time heading up north to discover all the region has to offer. Whether you choose to visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes, take a scenic drive to the lakeshore, play outdoors, or take a lighthouse tour, you will find that fall serves up plenty of adventures.

This page is full of ideas for exploration, from the best spots to see fall color to the incredible wineries of the Traverse Wine Coast. Find information about our restaurants, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, lodging options and itineraries. You can also find ideas for how to venture beyond the city and find the hidden gems of Benzie, and Leelanau Counties.

Color tours, winery and brewery visits, apple picking, outdoor adventures and cozy restaurants — this is fall in Traverse City. Start planning with the ideas below.

 

Fall Color in Traverse City

Autumn is a dazzling season in Traverse City. Oranges, reds and yellows paint the rolling hills, giving the perfect opportunity for a stunning color tour. Experience the beauty on a scenic bike ride, or kayak down a crystal-clear river.

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Are there mountains in northern Michigan? You bet! We refer to them as "mountains of sand" otherwise known as the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. A year-round attraction, it is a special place where time slows down and where you can connect with each other.

Fall in Traverse City
It may be the shortest season, but it certainly is the sweetest season. The hills come alive with the red and orage fall colors. Apples, cider and donuts await you and our colorful trails are ready to be explored. 
overlooking the bay, trees are reds, golds and greens, sleeping bear is in the background, courtesy Traverse City Tourism
Golf

Choose from championship courses and get ready to hit the links!

view of course, autumn colored trees off to the right, cart path in the center over winding hills, lake off in the distance, courtesy Traverse City Tourism
Wine Tasting
Welcome to the Traverse Wine Coast! Located on the 45th parallel, our wine country boasts two unique peninsulas with a fantastic diversity of tasting rooms and wineries. All of the tasting rooms offer unique experiences and are relaxed, friendly, and fun!
four gals and one guy sitting on the deck overlooking the vineyard of autumn colors, reds golds and greens all our laughing and having a good time, courtesy of Traverse City Tourism
Pet-Friendly
What's a vacation without your best friend? The same natural attractions that make the area a popular place for outdoor recreation - miles of trails, open spaces and long beaches - make it popular for canine adventurers.
woman in a red plaid poncho and jeans, walking her dog on the paved path, trees are yellows and oranges, courtesy of Traverse City Tourism
Fly Into Traverse City

Traverse City's Cherry Capital Airport is a full-service commercial airport offering major airline service to over 300 domestic and international destinations. Find nonstop flights from American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Air Lines, Elite Airways and Allegiant. Global service is also offered through hub airport connections in Detroit and Chicago year-round.

airport at night with plane taking off courtesy TVC
Leelanau Trail
The Leelanau Trail has been designated as a Pure Michigan Trail.
Hiking
In northern Michigan, the great outdoors are always waiting. Come rain or shine, there are hundreds of miles of trails to explore. Take some time to unplug and get away from it all.
guy walking on a branch in the woods, trees are bright yellows, courtesy of Traverse City Tourism
Regions
There's no place like northern Michigan. Up here, you can discover the shops, restaurants, and historical sites around the regions. Visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes on the Leelanau Peninsula. Wander a wooded trail or visit a lighthouse in Benzie County. These adventures, and so many more, are just minutes away from TC.
sunset behind point betsie over the water courtesy TVC
Dining
Whether you prefer elegant dining at a waterfront restaurant, grabbing take out for a picnic at Lake Michigan, or sitting outside on a patio, Traverse City's restaurants will never fail to satisfy your inner-foodie.
two couples indoors on a patio dining, laughing and having a good time, courtesy Traverse City Tourism
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