kayakers on the bay with trees in along the shoreline of oranges and golds. sky and waters are both bright and aqua blues

Traverse City

Recognized by The Wall Street Journal as one of the 10 Best Places to Go in 2025 and named one of Midwest Living’s 30 Great Midwest Fall Color Getaways, Traverse City is where autumn shines. Watch rolling hills light up with vibrant reds and golds, hike through endless forest trails, or savor the season with cider, wine, and craft brews. From harvest flavors to scenic drives along the lakeshore, every fall color moment here is pure northern Michigan magic. 

Places to Stay

view of the vineyard with the bay in the background and trees are goldens and yellows in front of the bay

International Fireworks Championship

fireworks over the bay

Fall Color tour

golden yellows, reds and oranges line the coast of sleeping bear dunes

Traverse City Beer Week

couple sitting around a campfire drinking craft beverages

Wine Tasting Experiences

couple on the trails of the vineyard drinking a glass of wine

Fall Activities

couple on the lawn at Traverse City Commons on the fall day.

Share This

C’mon up!

Take a road trip and let the brilliant fall colors lead the way to your perfect autumn escape. Traverse City was made for color tours, seasonal activities, and outdoor exploration—it’s the kind of autumn getaway that pulls you back year after year. Scenic drives wind past orchards, vineyards, and forests painted in gold and crimson. Stop to hike the trails or climb the dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, then reward your adventure with a taste of the season—whether it’s a farm-to-table meal, a cozy fall favorite, or a glass of local wine or craft beer. With every turn and every flavor, this is where experiences turn into long-lasting memories.  

What are the top attractions in Traverse City?

Located along the coast of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is home to award winning wineries, restaurants, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and six historic lighthouses.

What is Traverse City known for?

Traverse City is known as the "Cherry Capital of the World." The area is also known for their natural attractions like freshwater beaches, vineyards, wineries and the proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

When is the Cherry Festival in Traverse City?

The National Cherry Festival is July 4th - 11th, 2026! More than 500,000 people flock to Traverse City for the festival every year!

Plan Your Trip:
Traverse City Tourism
West Michigan Tourist Association
two women drinking wine at the counter and having crudités with the wine
2025 International Fireworks Championships

On September 5th and 6th, six pyrotechnic teams from across the globe will face off at the Turtle Creek Stadium in Traverse City. Fierce, international competition and mesmerizing fireworks displays make for a night you won’t want to miss! Secure your spot for this fantastic event. 

Your Summer Escape Starts Here
Adventure Awaits in Traverse City
Spring Adventures Await in Traverse City
Let's Go To The Beach

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a cozy escape, Traverse City is the perfect getaway to a Winter Wonderland! C'mon and experience the magic of the season.

Under the Radar Visits Traverse City
Keep It Fresh in Traverse City

Experience Michigan's stunning natural beauty along beaches and trails, as well as incredible flavors at wineries and downtown dining gems. Keep It Fresh this summer in Traverse City.

Learn more at traversecity.com

Be Who You Are in Traverse City

Feel free to explore. Feel free to escape. But more than anything, feel free to be yourself. Traverse City is recognized as a great place for the LGBTQ+ community - it's warm and welcoming. Come to relax, get away and have some fun. But mostly, come to be yourself.

C'mon Up

Your bags are packed, and the gas tank is full. the road ahead is dotted with forests and farms, leading you toward quaint towns and endless stretches of Lake Michigan. The bustle of city life fades into the rearview mirror as you enter Benzie County.

2025 Traverse City Food & Wine

Traverse City Food & Wine brought together the flavors, sights, and sounds that make this region so special. From delicious dishes crafted by renowned chefs to tastings of over 100 local wines and beverages, every moment was a celebration of community, creativity, and connection.

Up Next:
2025 International Fireworks Championships

On September 5th and 6th, six pyrotechnic teams from across the globe will face off at the Turtle Creek Stadium in Traverse City. Fierce, international competition and mesmerizing fireworks displays make for a night you won’t want to miss! Secure your spot for this fantastic event. 

Your Summer Escape Starts Here
Adventure Awaits in Traverse City
Spring Adventures Await in Traverse City
Let's Go To The Beach

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a cozy escape, Traverse City is the perfect getaway to a Winter Wonderland! C'mon and experience the magic of the season.

Under the Radar Visits Traverse City
Keep It Fresh in Traverse City

Experience Michigan's stunning natural beauty along beaches and trails, as well as incredible flavors at wineries and downtown dining gems. Keep It Fresh this summer in Traverse City.

Learn more at traversecity.com

Be Who You Are in Traverse City

Feel free to explore. Feel free to escape. But more than anything, feel free to be yourself. Traverse City is recognized as a great place for the LGBTQ+ community - it's warm and welcoming. Come to relax, get away and have some fun. But mostly, come to be yourself.

C'mon Up

Your bags are packed, and the gas tank is full. the road ahead is dotted with forests and farms, leading you toward quaint towns and endless stretches of Lake Michigan. The bustle of city life fades into the rearview mirror as you enter Benzie County.

2025 Traverse City Food & Wine

Traverse City Food & Wine brought together the flavors, sights, and sounds that make this region so special. From delicious dishes crafted by renowned chefs to tastings of over 100 local wines and beverages, every moment was a celebration of community, creativity, and connection.

Plan Your Trip

Filter Listings
Showing 1 - 12 of 298

Events

All Traverse City Events

Deals & Packages
in Traverse City

All Traverse City Deals

Share Your Traverse City Photos

Tag your photos with #TraverseCity and #PureMichigan

Nearby Destinations

Find More Michigan Destinations
Acme
Grawn
Cedar
Williamsburg