Traverse City Culinary and Beach Delights Itinerary

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at The Franklin, a local favorite for its classic dishes. Then, set out to explore the Traverse City Ale Trail, starting with a tour and tasting at Jolly Pumpkin Brewery, known for its artisanal beers and rustic ambiance.

Enjoy a laid-back lunch at Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery, where you can pair your meal with their handcrafted brews. Afterward, take a scenic drive along the Old Mission Peninsula, stopping at the various wineries and enjoying the stunning views of the vineyards and the bay.

As the sun begins to set, have dinner at Mission Table, a restaurant with a focus on local and sustainable ingredients. End the day with a peaceful walk at Bryant Park, where you can witness the beautiful colors of the sunset reflecting on the water.

Start your day with a visit to The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, a unique destination with shops, galleries, and a fascinating history. Enjoy breakfast at Trattoria Stella, located within the Village, offering an authentic Italian dining experience.

After exploring the Village, head to Harvest Restaurant and Wine Bar for a farm-fresh lunch paired with a selection from their extensive wine list. Spend your afternoon at the Great Lakes Children's Museum, a fun and educational stop for all ages, celebrating the Great Lakes and the world around them.

For dinner, indulge in the Asian-inspired cuisine at Red Ginger, known for its vibrant flavors and stylish setting. Cap off the evening with a performance at the Interlochen Center for the Arts, a world-renowned venue for music, dance, theater, and more.

Take a short drive to Empire Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Enjoy the morning sun, take a refreshing swim, or simply relax on the sandy shore. Grab a beach-friendly breakfast from Georgina's, known for its fresh and light fare.

After the beach, head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for an afternoon of exploration. Hike the dunes, visit the historic sites, and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. For lunch, pack a picnic from Firefly, a spot known for its gourmet to-go options.

Return to Traverse City and unwind with dinner at North Peak Brewing Company, a historic brewery with a diverse menu. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Boardman Lake Trail, enjoying the peaceful evening and the reflections of the city lights on the water.

Start your day with a breakfast at Slabtown Burgers, a local spot known for its creative takes on classic dishes. After breakfast, explore the lesser-known side of Traverse City with a visit to The Little Fleet, a unique outdoor bar and food truck destination.

For lunch, head to Mama Lu's Tacos & Tequila Bar for some of the best tacos in town, paired with a refreshing margarita. Spend your afternoon at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, discovering the shops, galleries, and the intriguing history of the former asylum.

Dine at Poppycocks, a Traverse City institution, known for its eclectic menu and charming atmosphere. After dinner, enjoy a live performance at The City Opera House, a historic venue that hosts a variety of entertainment, from music to theater.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Bubba's, a local favorite known for its comfort food. Afterward, take a scenic drive along the Old Mission Peninsula, stopping at the various overlooks and points of interest, and perhaps visiting a few of the wineries for tastings.

For lunch, visit Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen, where you can experience the flavors of the Big Easy right in Traverse City. Afterward, continue your drive and make a stop at Old Mission Lighthouse, where you can learn about the maritime history of the area and enjoy the panoramic views.

Return to the city for a dinner at Amical, a classic Traverse City restaurant offering a menu of European-inspired dishes. After dinner, take a guided twilight paddle with The River Outfitters, where you can experience the beauty of the Boardman River under the evening sky.

Begin your day with a breakfast at Sorellina, known for its elegant Italian cuisine. Then, head out to Elk Rapids, a charming nearby town, for a morning of exploring its shops, parks, and the beautiful Elk Rapids Beach.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Little Fleet, where you can sample a variety of dishes from the food trucks and enjoy the outdoor ambiance. Afterward, return to Traverse City and spend your afternoon at Boardman River Nature Center, learning about the local flora and fauna.

For your final dinner in Traverse City, indulge in the sophisticated menu at The Boathouse Restaurant, which offers stunning views of the bay. After dinner, take a twilight cruise with Traverse Tall Ship Company, enjoying the city lights from the water and the gentle evening breeze.

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Blue Tractor BBQ & Brewery, reminiscing about the culinary delights of Traverse City. Spend your morning packing and preparing for your departure, or take a last-minute stroll through the downtown area, picking up any souvenirs or treats you may have missed.

Before leaving Traverse City, have a farewell lunch at Jolly Pumpkin Brewery - Traverse City, where you can enjoy their unique brews and a final taste of local cuisine. After lunch, bid adieu to Traverse City and head to your next destination, carrying with you the memories of the beaches, the flavors, and the warmth of Northern Michigan.