Getting Around: Traverse City And Leelanau Peninsula

Public Transportation

The Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) runs fixed-route bus services. It also offers demand-response services, known as Dial-A-Ride. These services cover Traverse City and portions of Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties. The region not metro or tram systems.

BATA flexible fare options.

BATA Services & Fares

Fixed-route buses and Dial-A-Ride options.
Main Hub: The Grand Traverse Bay Region Transfer Station, located at Hall Street and Union Street in downtown Traverse City.
Fares: Single ride on Link Fixed Routes costs $1.50. Day passes cost $5. Seven-day passes $20, 31-day passes $50.
Hours: Buses generally operate on weekdays and Saturdays. No Sunday service.

Routes & Frequency

BATA operates various "Village Loops," like the Leelanau Loop and the Peninsula Loop. These loops link Traverse City to surrounding communities and attractions. City routes also serve the immediate Traverse City area. Service frequency outside the immediate Traverse City area can be lower.

Payment Methods

Pay the exact cash fare when boarding the bus. Alternatively, purchase passes at the Transfer Station or at select retail locations. A mobile ticketing app also available for convenience.

Accessibility

All BATA buses wheelchair accessible. They equipped with lifts or ramps to accommodate passengers with mobility needs.

BATA Tips & Planning

Efficient Riding

Plan your trip using the BATA website or the transit option within Google Maps.
Consider purchasing a day pass if you anticipate multiple rides within a single day.
Remember that service frequency outside the immediate Traverse City area can be lower. Plan accordingly.

Further Details

Buses generally operate from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM on weekdays.
Routes link downtown, the Peninsula Loop, and the Leelanau Loop.
Visit the BATA website for current route maps and schedules.

Tips for Public Transit

Plan Ahead

Check schedules and routes.

Exact Change

If paying cash on board.

Day Pass Value

Consider for multiple rides.

Google Maps

For real-time tracking.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing services deliver convenient, on-demand transport options.

Taxi Services

Several local taxi companies Traverse City, like Traverse City Taxi and Blue Lakes Taxi.
You can call taxis for pickup or find them at designated stands, including the airport and downtown locations.
Taxi fares metered. Short rides within downtown Traverse City might cost $8-$15.
Most taxis accept both cash and credit cards.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber is widely available in Traverse City.
Lyft services also operate in the area.
Their availability extends to a lesser extent on the Leelanau Peninsula.
Always verify that the driver and vehicle details match the information the app shows before starting your ride.

Safety & Availability

For taxis, confirm it a licensed vehicle before entering.
Longer rides to Leelanau Peninsula towns will be significantly more.
Tipping is a standard practice for both taxi and rideshare drivers.

Taxis and rideshare services readily available at Cherry Capital Airport (TVC).
Book rides conveniently through their respective apps.
Designated pickup areas at the airport simplify finding your ride.

Choosing Your Ride

Convenience

On-demand service for direct routes to your destination.

Cost

Variable based on distance, time of day, and demand surges.

Flexibility

Good for specific destinations or late-night returns when public transport limited.

Rental Options

Renting a car maximum flexibility for exploring the region's diverse attractions.

Car Rental

Most companies drivers to be at least 21-25 years old. Drivers under 25 may incur additional surcharges.
Booking your car well in advance recommended, especially for peak summer season travel.
A major credit card also necessary.
Major companies, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Alamo, have counters at Cherry Capital Airport (TVC).

Bicycle Rentals

Numerous shops in Traverse City and towns on the Leelanau Peninsula bicycle rentals.
The Tart Trail system for cycling can lessen the need for a car rental. It links to other trails like the Leelanau Trail.
Options include road bikes, mountain bikes, cruisers, and electric bikes.
Helmets recommended for all cyclists. Follow all traffic laws.

Driving & Cycling Insights

Driving Laws

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts mandatory for all occupants. Cell phone use while driving restricted.

Safe driving is paramount.

Road Conditions

Roads generally good condition. M-22, the scenic highway circling the Leelanau Peninsula, is well-maintained.

Roads are well-kept.

Parking Information

Paid parking common in downtown Traverse City. Several parking garages give convenient options. Most hotels free parking for guests.

Convenient parking available.

Other Transportation Forms

Motorcycle/Scooter Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals limited availability in the region.
Some specialty shops may offer motorcycle rentals.
Scooters less common due to the spread-out nature of the area.

Specialized Transport

Hop-on-hop-off services limited. Some private companies give guided bus tours, especially for wine tasting.
Limited boat taxis and charter services for fishing or scenic tours on Grand Traverse Bay or Lake Leelanau.
The Traverse City and Leelanau Peninsula region not cable cars, funiculars, or other similar unique local transport systems.

Important Considerations

Driving Safety

United States driving rules apply. Vehicles drive on the right side of the road.
Cell phone use while driving restricted.
Driving in winter can present challenges due to snow and ice; conditions can change quickly.

Cycling Safety

Sharing the road with vehicles important on scenic routes.
Generally, no specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians or cyclists, but caution on busy roads.
Avoid unmarked trails or private property.
Emergency number 911 for immediate police, fire, or ambulance assistance.

Travel Flexibility

For optimal exploration beyond Traverse City's downtown, a rental car or personal vehicle delivers the most freedom.

Getting Around