Hidden Gems in Traverse City (From a Local)
Traverse City has no shortage of popular restaurants, wineries, beaches, and things to do. But some of our favorite spots are the ones that feel a little more local.
If you're looking for hidden gems in Traverse City and want to experience the area beyond the usual tourist stops, add these five places to your list.
1. Shady Lane Cellars
Located on the Leelanau Peninsula, Shady Lane Cellars is one of our favorite Traverse City-area wineries. It's a little quieter than some of the larger wineries, with a beautiful patio that's especially enjoyable during the summer.
Grab a glass of wine, settle in, and enjoy the slower pace. If you're feeling ambitious, you can even bike there using the TART Trail.
2. Oaky's Tavern in Interlochen
For great BBQ outside of Traverse City, make the short drive to Oaky's Tavern in Interlochen. It's a local favorite for good reason.
Their Wednesday wing deal is worth planning around, and we're big fans of the mac and cheese options. It's usually busy, but they're great at accommodating groups, making it a good option if you're traveling with family or friends.
3. Good Harbor Bay Beach
Looking for a quieter Lake Michigan beach near Traverse City? Good Harbor Bay Beach is one of our favorites.
It's scenic, peaceful, and a great place to spend an afternoon away from the busier beaches closer to downtown Traverse City. Stick around for sunset and you may just find yourself with one of the best views in the area.
Bubbie’s Bagels
4. Bubbie's Bagels
A bold opinion: Bubbie's Bagels might be some of the best bagels in the world.
They're fresh, soft, and worth the stop. This popular local spot can get busy, so we'd recommend going early if you can. Grab a bagel and start your Traverse City morning the right way.
5. Good Harbor Coffee
If you're searching for a great coffee shop in Traverse City, don't overlook Good Harbor Coffee.
It's a favorite for a morning cup (and don’t sleep on their scones!) before heading out to explore. Grab your coffee and take a walk through downtown Traverse City before the day's crowds really get going.
Make Your Traverse City Trip Feel a Little More Local
The best Traverse City vacations aren't always about checking every major attraction off your list. Sometimes it's finding a favorite coffee shop, discovering a quieter beach, or spending an afternoon on a winery patio.
And after a day of exploring, having the right place to come home to makes all the difference.
At Traverse City Getaway, we offer luxury vacation rentals in Traverse City and throughout the surrounding area, with comfortable spaces, fully stocked kitchens, hot tubs, game rooms, outdoor spaces, and the amenities that make an Up North getaway feel like a real vacation.
Planning a Traverse City getaway? Explore our vacation homes and find your perfect place to stay.
