10 Best Things to Do in Traverse City in the Fall

Your travel guide to fall in Traverse City, Michigan

Fall is one of the best times of year to visit Traverse City!

Summer's beach days give way to colorful forests, harvest season, crisp mornings and scenic drives through Northern Michigan. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend, a family getaway or a longer fall vacation, there is plenty to see and do.

Here are 10 of our favorite ways to experience Traverse City in the fall.

1. Take a Fall Color Drive

Of course, fall color is at the top of the list.

Drive along the Old Mission Peninsula, explore Leelanau County or head toward Sleeping Bear Dunes for some of Northern Michigan's most beautiful autumn scenery.

Peak color typically occurs around mid-October, although the exact timing varies each year.

For a longer road trip, make a full day of it with stops for wine tasting, hiking, lunch and scenic overlooks.

2. Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes

Cooler fall temperatures make Sleeping Bear Dunes an excellent place to spend a day outdoors.

Take a hike, explore the scenic overlooks or simply enjoy the views of Lake Michigan surrounded by changing leaves.

It's also a great option for visitors who want to experience one of Northern Michigan's most iconic destinations without the pace of a summer day.

3. Explore Downtown Traverse City

Set aside time to explore downtown Traverse City.

Browse local shops, stop for coffee, grab lunch or dinner and spend some time walking along the waterfront.

Fall is a great season to slow down and enjoy the city's restaurants and shops without trying to fit everything into a single summer afternoon.

4. Walk or Bike the TART Trails

The TART Trails offer an easy way to experience the outdoors without committing to a full day hike.

Walk, bike or explore a section of the trail system while taking in the changing leaves.

It's especially nice on a crisp fall morning.

5. Visit Local Orchards and Farms

Fall brings harvest season to Northern Michigan.

Depending on when you visit, you can find apples, cider, pumpkins, farm markets and other seasonal offerings throughout the region.

Build a farm or orchard stop into your fall color drive for a distinctly Northern Michigan experience.

6. Enjoy the Waterfront

Don't overlook the water just because summer is over.

Grand Traverse Bay remains one of the best parts of visiting Traverse City in the fall. The shoreline becomes quieter, the sunsets are beautiful and the changing trees create a completely different landscape.

At Tamarack Lodge, guests can enjoy direct access to a private sandy beach along East Grand Traverse Bay, along with waterfront seating and fire pits.

7. Check Out Fall Events

Traverse City remains busy throughout September, October and November.

Seasonal events range from harvest celebrations and wine events to downtown shopping and Halloween activities. The event calendar changes each year, so check current listings when planning your trip.

8. Go Hiking

Fall is an ideal time to get outside.

Cooler temperatures make longer walks and hikes more comfortable, while the changing leaves add an entirely different dimension to the area's trails.

Whether you choose Sleeping Bear Dunes, a trail near Traverse City or a walk along the waterfront, bring comfortable shoes and a few extra layers.

9. Explore Northern Michigan Wine Country

Fall is harvest season in Northern Michigan wine country, making it a particularly fun time to visit local tasting rooms.

The Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas both offer opportunities to explore wineries surrounded by vineyards, rolling hills and fall color.

Make reservations when needed and plan ahead for transportation if you'll be visiting multiple tasting rooms.

10. Slow Down and Enjoy a Fall Weekend

Not every part of a vacation needs to be scheduled.

Leave an afternoon open to enjoy your accommodations, read by the fire, play a game, take a walk along the water or simply watch the leaves change.

That's one of the best things about visiting Traverse City in the fall. You can fill your days with activities, or you can slow down and enjoy the season.

Where to Stay for Your Traverse City Fall Getaway

Tamarack Lodge offers a waterfront setting on East Grand Traverse Bay with accommodations for couples, families and groups.

New hotel rooms provide a comfortable option for shorter stays, while one-, two- and three-bedroom suites offer separate living spaces and kitchens or kitchenettes for guests who want more room.

Resort amenities include a private beach, indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness center and welcoming lodge spaces, giving you plenty to enjoy even when the weather turns cool.

Plan your fall getaway to Traverse City and stay waterfront at Tamarack Lodge.