Traverse City

Traverse City is a small town in northern Michigan that spreads along the shore of Grand Traverse Bay, surrounded by forests and gentle hills. Parks, sandy beaches, and walking and cycling trails line the waterfront promenade, making water and nature easy to reach.

Loggers founded the settlement in the mid-19th century and built a sawmill to process the dense forests of the region. In the early 20th century the economy shifted to fruit farming and tourism as timber supplies ran out.

The name comes from the French term "La Grande Traverse", used by early fur traders for the long crossing over the bay. Downtown streets show many wine tasting rooms and cafes that invite visitors to pause and relax.

Main roads run parallel to the coast and meet in the compact town center, which is easy to explore on foot. Many vineyards and orchards in the surrounding area open to visitors in late summer and early autumn when harvest season begins.

The area produces about 75 percent of the American tart cherry harvest, which explains the numerous fruit plantations in the surroundings. Several old lighthouses along the coast are still maintained today and offer access for curious visitors.

Location: Grand Traverse County

Inception: 1891

Elevation above the sea: 191 m

Website: https://traversecitymi.gov

GPS coordinates: 44.76806,-85.62222

Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:00