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Best Things to Do in Traverse City, MI

Best Things to Do in Traverse City, MI

Traverse City is a wonderful city surrounded by water and charm. The area is known for its cherries, wineries, festivals, and its abundance of recreational opportunities! We are 45 minutes from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore which is a must-see any time of the year. When not enjoying the great outdoors, we have a multitude of high-quality restaurants and bars. Below are some things you can do in the fall months.

5 Places to Go in Traverse City

The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is a beautiful 26-acre botanic garden at Historic Barns Park. It is the only botanic garden in Northwest Michigan. The visitor center is open seasonally, and the grounds are open to the public the whole year.

Visitors can see some of the more than 100 species of birds that visit the botanic garden. The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park is beautiful year-round. But in the fall, it is especially gorgeous with the turning leaves.

1490 Red Drive, Traverse City, MI 49684
(231) 935-4077

Great Wolf Lodge Water Park is the indoor water park attached to the Great Wolf Lodge in Traverse City. The water park is great fun during the cold months of the year! It is considered the best indoor water park in the state.

You can now buy a day pass for the water park. Guests of the lodge can enter the water park without additional charge. Great Wolf Lodge Water Park is a refreshing change of pace!

3575 N U.S. 31 S, Traverse City, MI 49684
(866) 478-9653

Located in West Traverse City, Miller Creek Nature Reserve is an 88-acre natural reserve near Grand Traverse Crossing. There are woods of pine, meadows, and marshland. The park is practically in the backyard of Emerald Creek Apartments and within easy walking distance.

It has a total of three miles of trails. The paths are suited for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Miller Creek Nature Reserve is a hidden gem for folks looking to enjoy the outdoors.

Traverse City, MI 49684
(231) 941-0960

Grand Traverse Mall is an indoor shopping mall with over 100 stores in Traverse City. They are anchored by JC Penney, Target, TJ Maxx, Dunham’s Sports, and Macy’s. Style lives at Grand Traverse Mall.

It also has a food court and children’s play area. The mall is less than a mile from Emerald Creek Apartments. Cool in the summer and warm in the fall, Grand Traverse Mall is a great place to shop.

3200 W South Airport Rd, Traverse City, MI 49684
(231) 922-2591

If you're looking for beautiful views and excellent wine, look no further than the wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula. One of our favorites is the Hawthorne Vinyard. The vineyard makes a variety of red, white, and rosé wines, so no matter your pallet, you'll find something great to sip. Sit down and see the beautiful views of the West Grand Traverse Bay and try various wines with one of the wine flights. On a chilly evening, you'll also love the cozy outdoor fireplace. Be sure to make a reservation and learn more about the wine and history of the vineyard on the website. 

1000 Camino Maria Traverse City, MI 49686
(231)929-4206

Top Places to Eat in Traverse City, MI

Our city’s dining is a mix of local tradition and fusion. These five must-try eateries define our culinary scene, from laid-back pubs and vegan spots to local food. Check out some of the favorites that our residents at Emerald Creek Apartments enjoy.

Taproot Cider House

Cider house, Restaurant

Cider is flowing at Taproot Cider House! The cider tavern serves a plethora of Michigan hard ciders. They have lots of mouth-watering dishes such as Taproot Grilled Cheese, House Royal, and Cider House Burger. Taproot was opened in 2016 by founder Jen Viren.

Mulligan’s Pub & Grill

Restaurant, Pub

The pub is owned by The Crown Golf Club, but it is also open to non-golfers. They serve the homemade soup with warm bread as well as their signature stuffed burgers. Mulligan’s Pub & Grill has a great atmosphere to eat and relax!

Sparky’s Diner

American, Breakfast, Diner

If you're looking for a good American style breakfast, lunch, brunch, or dinner, Sparky's is ready to greet you! They have Chili dogs and traditional breakfast options, and they also have a Drive-Thru window if you prefer to not dine-in.

Centre Street Cafe

American, Cafe

Centre Street Cafe is a locally owned restaurant that serves scrumptious breakfast food. They only use fresh ingredients to make their dishes! You can grab a healthy bite at the cafe 11 AM to 3 PM.

a pot of curry and a bowl of rice on a table

TASTE OF INDIA

Indian, Restaurant

Trying to find some of the best takeout food in Traverse City? Try Taste of India! This Indian Restaurant in Traverse City offers beautifully creamy curries and fluffy bread with tender tandoori chicken or flavorful biryani. Located in the Grand Traverse Mall, this is just a few minutes from Emerald Creek apartments. They also offer combos as an easy way to try a lot of things on their menu! 

SCHOOLS IN TRAVERSE CITY, MI

    





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