Day Trips & Excursions: Traverse City And Leelanau Peninsula

Accessible Locations within Day-Trip Distance

Several charming towns and attractions are within a comfortable day-trip distance, offering diverse experiences.

Discover unique architecture, charming harbors, and stunning bay views in towns like Charlevoix and Petoskey. For a longer adventure, consider Mackinaw City and the car-free Mackinac Island, or the scenic beaches of Frankfort and Elberta.

Popular Destinations

Charlevoix (approx. 1 hour north): Unique "mushroom houses", beautiful harbor.
Petoskey (approx. 1h 15m north): Victorian charm, shopping, Petoskey stones.
Mackinaw City/Mackinac Island (approx. 2h north): Car-free island, Grand Hotel, fudge.
Frankfort & Elberta (approx. 45m SW): Lake Michigan beaches, Betsie Lake, Point Betsie Lighthouse.

Transportation & Planning

Choose the best way to travel and plan your time effectively for each excursion.

Transportation Choices

All listed destinations are easily reachable by car, providing flexibility. Some operators also offer organized tours.

Getting Around

Driving: Most flexible for independent exploration.
Organized Tours: Ferry and logistics handled, ideal for Mackinac Island.
Wine & Brewery Tours: Specific tours cover multiple towns and tasting rooms.

Tour or Independent?

Weigh the advantages of exploring on your own versus the ease of a guided tour.

Considerations

Independent Travel: Maximum freedom for pace and customization.
Organized Tour: Convenience for specific interests, no designated driver.
Logistics: Tours simplify ferry tickets and other arrangements. Book a tour.

Timing Your Adventures

Charlevoix/Petoskey

Half to full day per town.
Combine for a full day.
Rushing spoils the experience.
Allow for leisurely stops.

Mackinac Island

A full day is necessary.
Early start for best experience.
Overnight stay for a relaxed pace.
Quick trips are not recommended.

Other Planning Notes

Frankfort/Elberta:Half to full day.
Beach time:Essential for coastal towns.
Lighthouse visits:Allocate specific time.
Exploring towns:Factor in walking time.

Seasonal considerations:Hours vary by season.
Advance booking:Recommended for peak season tours.
Weather:Check forecasts before heading out.
Road conditions:Stay informed during winter months.

Planning Tip

Booking day trips in advance, especially during peak season, streamlines your travel plans. Find day trips on GetYourGuide.

Natural Escapes

The region and its surroundings provide many natural areas for scenic drives and outdoor enjoyment.

Torch Lake

Michigan's longest inland lake, famed for clear turquoise waters and popular sandbars.

Fisherman's Island

Undisturbed Lake Michigan shoreline for beachcombing and quiet enjoyment.

Port Oneida

Historic district with preserved farms, offering a glimpse into early settlement life.

M-22 Drive

A scenic highway looping around the Leelanau Peninsula, providing stunning views.

Views to Enjoy

Lake Michigan vistas.
Vineyards and orchards.
Charming small towns.

Old Mission Peninsula

A drive with views of Grand Traverse Bay on both sides, with vineyards and orchards.

Explore the Peninsula

Bay views on both sides.
Vineyard visits.
Orchard stops.

Diverse Landscapes

Suttons Bay Beach:Calm, family-friendly.

Glen Arbor Beaches:Lake Michigan access points.

Lakeside activities:Kayaking and paddleboarding.

Hiking trails:Numerous options for all levels.

Rural charm:Explore small towns.

Agricultural scenes:Farm stands and U-pick.

Seasonal Beauty

Late September to mid-October marks peak fall foliage.
Spring blossoms bring colors.
Summer offers ideal beach and water activity weather.
Winter features quiet, snowy landscapes.
Each season presents unique experiences.

Cultural Excursions

Discover historical and cultural sites beyond the main tourist areas.

Historical Landmarks

Step back in time at these preserved sites.

Outstanding Sites

Point Betsie Lighthouse: Important Michigan lighthouse, museum.
Mission Point Lighthouse: Historical and scenic, Old Mission Peninsula.
Historic Fishtown: Preserves commercial fishing history in Leland.

Cultural Explorations

Engage with the local heritage through these unique experiences.

Local Culture

Dennos Museum: Known for Inuit art.
City Opera House: Attend a performance.
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons: Historic asylum turned shops/restaurants.

Rural Charm

Wander through tranquil villages on the peninsulas.

Village Visits

Northport: Quaint harbor town.
Omena: Small, artistic community.
Lake Leelanau: Between two lakes.

Agricultural Delights

Explore the rich agricultural landscape and local produce.

Farm & Orchard

Old Mission Peninsula: Vineyards and orchards.
Farm Stands: Fresh local produce.
U-pick Opportunities: Seasonal fruit picking.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider extending your trip to explore more of Michigan and beyond.

Mackinac Island & St. Ignace

Spend a night on Mackinac Island or use St. Ignace as a base for Upper Peninsula coastal exploration.

Tunnel of Trees & Harbor Springs

Drive M-119, the 'Tunnel of Trees,' from Harbor Springs to Cross Village. Consider an overnight stay.

Leelanau Peninsula In-Depth

Dedicate 1-2 nights to a charming Leelanau town for exploration of wineries and galleries.

Extended Journey

Consider a multi-day extension to fully appreciate the region's diverse offerings and nearby attractions.

Day Trips & Excursions