Found 6 blog entries tagged as traverse city.

The Lake Michigan shoreline is arguably the most scenic stretch of freshwater coastline in North America, and US-31 is the thread that stitches it all together. From the Indiana state line to the tip of the Lower Peninsula at Mackinaw City, this highway (and its essential side routes) connects wine country, artist colonies, towering sand dunes, historic lighthouses, and beach towns that range from lively resort hubs to blink-and-you-miss-them villages with populations under 500.

What makes this drive different from a standard "hit the highlights" vacation is the variety. In a single trip, you can ride an ORV across sand dunes near Silver Lake, board a National Historic Landmark steamship in Ludington, hunt for Petoskey stones on the shore near…

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The 2026 James Beard Awards semifinalist list includes six Michigan restaurants and chefs, reinforcing what Metro Detroit residents already know: the region's dining scene rivals any in the country.

Bar Chenin in Detroit earned Best New Bar recognition. Echelon Kitchen & Bar in Ann Arbor made the Best New Restaurant list. Four Michigan chefs earned Best Chef: Great Lakes semifinalist status: John Yelinek of Ladder 4 Wine Bar in Detroit, Javier Bardauil of Barda in Detroit, Andy Elliott and Emily Stewart of Modern Bird in Traverse City, and James Galbraith of PostBoy in New Buffalo.

For home buyers evaluating neighborhoods and communities, these nominations matter beyond bragging rights. Award-caliber restaurants signal thriving commercial corridors,…

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If you're living in Metro Detroit or even just moving to Metro Detroit, July is one of the best months to dive headfirst into the region’s vibrant summer scene. From massive art fairs and outdoor concerts to fireworks shows and family festivals, Metro Detroit transforms into a celebration of culture, community, and entertainment. Whether you’re planning weekend getaways, looking for family-friendly events, or searching for can’t-miss concerts, this month is packed with experiences that highlight the area’s rich diversity and unmistakable summertime energy. With something happening in nearly every corner—from historic celebrations in Clawson and Dearborn to world-class headliners at Little Caesars Arena and Pine Knob—July offers the perfect mix of…

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There’s a reason Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a beloved summertime pilgrimage for Metro Detroiters. This 35-mile stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline – with golden sand dunes soaring 400+ feet above shimmering blue waters – was even crowned “the Most Beautiful Place in America” in 2011. Blending breathtaking natural beauty with small-town Up North charm, Sleeping Bear Dunes offers the ultimate Michigan beaches escape and a playground for family travel in Michigan. Whether you’re a newcomer planning your first Lake Michigan summer vacation or a local who’s been “Up North” countless times, this guide will show you what to see, do, and know – all with a friendly local twist. From can’t-miss sights like the Dune Climb and Pierce Stocking Scenic…

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Detroit isn’t just an automotive hub – it’s also the perfect launchpad for memorable road trips. Metro Detroiters are lucky: within a few hours’ drive, you can find everything from charming Bavarian villages to roaring waterfalls. Whether you’re a family looking for a weekend getaway from Detroit, a couple craving a romantic escape, or friends seeking adventure, these best road trips from Detroit deliver. We’ll start with the closest spots and work our way out, with drive times (from Detroit) rounded to the nearest 15 minutes. So gas up the car, grab some snacks (better make it Better Made chips and Faygo for local flavor), and let’s hit the road!

Frankenmuth, Facebook

Frankenmuth, MI (~1 hr 30 min from Detroit)

Frankenmuth, fondly known as…

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Ready to embark on a journey bursting with mouth-watering flavors, heart-pounding fun, and heartwarming tradition? Venture beyond the boundaries of Metro Detroit, nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan lies an event so immersive, so teeming with joy and jubilance, that it has become a cornerstone of Michigan culture. This is not merely an invitation—it's a call to an experience that each Michigander must undertake at least once. A rite of passage for some, a beloved annual ritual for others, this is your ticket to the mesmerizing world of the Traverse City National Cherry Festival. 

Over eight days, this vibrant celebration paints the town red, literally and figuratively, with an unforgettable array of cherry-themed events, traditional…

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