Discover Traverse City’s hidden treasures and outdoor adventures with our guide to the best unconventional dining, scenic biking trails, and more.
Traverse City’s Secret Gardens: A Botanical Treasure Trove
Nestled in the heart of Traverse City are several secret gardens, waiting to be discovered by those with a love of flora and fauna. Traverse City is known for its natural beauty, and these hidden botanical gems are no exception. From lush greenery to blooming flowers, these gardens offer a peaceful oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
One such secret garden is the Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park. This garden is situated on 56 acres and boasts an impressive collection of over 10,000 plants, including a vast array of native plants to Michigan. The garden features several themed sections, including a fern garden, an herb garden, and a butterfly garden. Visitors can explore the garden’s many paths, bridges, and water features while admiring the natural beauty of the surrounding forest.
Another secret garden in Traverse City is the Children’s Garden at the Grand Traverse Commons. This whimsical garden is designed to engage children and teach them about the wonders of nature. The garden features a variety of hands-on activities, including a musical garden, a secret garden, and a playhouse. The Children’s Garden also has a variety of animals, including chickens, ducks, and rabbits, adding to the garden’s charm and appeal.
For those seeking a more secluded and intimate experience, the Arboretum at Northwestern Michigan College is an ideal choice. The Arboretum is a living museum that showcases a variety of plant collections, including native Michigan plants, rare and unusual conifers, and a collection of dwarf conifers. Visitors can wander through the many paths and trails, taking in the peaceful beauty of the garden’s serene atmosphere.
Other notable secret gardens in Traverse City include the Sculpture Garden at the Dennos Museum Center and the Victorian Garden at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. The Sculpture Garden is home to a collection of over 30 sculptures, including works by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró. The Victorian Garden is a beautifully restored garden that features a variety of Victorian-era flowers and plants.
Discover the Underground: Traverse City’s Hidden Tunnels and Caves
Traverse City is home to a fascinating world of hidden tunnels and caves, waiting to be explored by the adventurous at heart. These underground wonders offer a unique perspective of the city’s history and natural beauty. From mysterious tunnels beneath the city’s streets to natural limestone caves, Traverse City’s underground world is full of surprises.
One of the most popular underground attractions in Traverse City is the Traverse City State Hospital Underground Tunnel Tour. This tour takes visitors through the historic tunnels beneath the former mental asylum, offering a glimpse into the hospital’s past. The tunnels were originally used to transport supplies, food, and laundry between buildings, and were also used by patients and staff. Today, the tunnels are an intriguing attraction that offers a fascinating insight into the city’s past.
Another must-visit underground attraction in Traverse City is the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum’s Keeper’s Quarters and Fog Signal Building. The lighthouse was built in 1858 and is still in operation today. The Keeper’s Quarters and Fog Signal Building offer a glimpse into the life of a lighthouse keeper and the history of the lighthouse itself. Visitors can explore the underground rooms and passages that were once used to store supplies and fuel for the lighthouse.
For those seeking a more natural underground experience, the Mystery Spot is an ideal choice. The Mystery Spot is a unique natural phenomenon that defies the laws of physics. Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, which includes a walk through a forest and a descent into a natural cave. The cave is said to be a portal to another dimension, and visitors can experience the strange and unexplained phenomena that occur within the cave.
Other notable underground attractions in Traverse City include the Sleder’s Family Tavern’s Secret Tunnel and the Great Lakes Children’s Museum’s Underwater Tunnel. The Secret Tunnel at Sleder’s Family Tavern is a historic tunnel that was used during the prohibition era to smuggle alcohol. Today, visitors can explore the tunnel and learn about its fascinating history. The Underwater Tunnel at the Great Lakes Children’s Museum is a simulated underwater experience that takes visitors on a journey through the Great Lakes, highlighting the importance of water conservation.
The Unsung Art Scene: Traverse City’s Alternative Galleries and Studios
Traverse City’s art scene is not just limited to traditional galleries and museums. The city is also home to a vibrant alternative art scene, featuring a variety of unconventional galleries and studios. From street art to contemporary installations, Traverse City’s alternative art scene is full of surprises.
One of the most popular alternative art spaces in Traverse City is the Left Foot Charley Winery and Tasting Room. This unique venue is not only a winery and tasting room but also a space for contemporary art. The winery hosts regular exhibitions and installations by local and international artists, offering a unique and exciting art experience for visitors.
Another must-visit alternative art space in Traverse City is the Warehouse MRKT. This converted warehouse is now a creative hub for local artists and makers, offering a variety of art and design products for sale. The Warehouse MRKT also hosts regular events and exhibitions, showcasing the work of up-and-coming artists and designers.
For those seeking a more unconventional art experience, the Traverse City Street Art Tour is a must. This self-guided tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s streets, alleys, and buildings, showcasing the vibrant and colourful street art scene. The tour features the work of local and international street artists, and offers a unique insight into the city’s alternative art scene.
Other notable alternative art spaces in Traverse City include the InsideOut Gallery, the Crooked Tree Arts Center, and the Artcenter Traverse City. The InsideOut Gallery is an experimental art space that features a variety of installations and performances, while the Crooked Tree Arts Center offers a diverse range of exhibitions and classes for all ages. The Artcenter Traverse City is a non-profit organization that promotes and supports local artists, offering a variety of programs and events throughout the year.
The Offbeat Eats: Traverse City’s Unique and Unconventional Dining Scene
Traverse City is known for its foodie culture and diverse dining options, but it’s the city’s offbeat eateries that truly make it stand out. From quirky cafes to unconventional food trucks, Traverse City’s unique and unconventional dining scene offers something for everyone.
One of the most popular offbeat eateries in Traverse City is the Little Fleet. This outdoor food truck lot features a rotating selection of local food trucks, serving up everything from gourmet burgers to authentic Mexican street food. The Little Fleet also has a full-service bar, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Another must-visit offbeat eatery in Traverse City is The Cook’s House. This small restaurant offers an ever-changing menu of seasonal and locally sourced dishes, making it a favourite among foodies. The Cook’s House also offers a Chef’s Tasting Menu, which features a selection of small plates, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing the best local ingredients.
For those seeking a more unconventional dining experience, the TC Ale Trail is a must. This self-guided tour takes visitors on a journey through Traverse City’s craft beer scene, stopping at a variety of local breweries and restaurants. Each stop offers a unique and exciting culinary experience, with many featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative twists on classic dishes.
Other notable offbeat eateries in Traverse City include Georgina’s, Patisserie Amie, and Stella’s Lounge. Georgina’s is a small restaurant that offers a variety of gourmet sandwiches and salads, while Patisserie Amie offers a selection of French pastries and desserts. Stella’s Lounge is a unique bar that features a menu of creative cocktails and gourmet burgers.
Traverse City’s Uncharted Waters: Kayaking and Paddleboarding Adventures
Traverse City’s stunning natural beauty is best experienced from the water. The city is surrounded by a vast network of lakes, rivers, and streams, offering endless opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding adventures. Whether you are seeking a tranquil paddle on a secluded lake or an exhilarating ride down a rushing river, Traverse City’s uncharted waters are not to be missed.
One of the most popular kayaking and paddleboarding destinations in Traverse City is the Boardman River. This scenic river offers a variety of paddling experiences, from tranquil stretches to exciting rapids. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards from several outfitters and explore the river at their leisure. The Boardman River is also a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching, adding to its appeal for nature enthusiasts.
Another must-visit kayaking and paddleboarding destination in Traverse City is the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This stunning natural area features miles of sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for a day of paddling. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards from several outfitters and explore the lakeshore’s many coves and bays.
For those seeking a more secluded paddling experience, the Platte River is an ideal choice. This gentle river meanders through a scenic forested area, offering a peaceful and tranquil paddling experience. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards from several outfitters and explore the river’s many twists and turns. The Platte River also has several small waterfalls and swimming holes, adding to its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Other notable kayaking and paddleboarding destinations in Traverse City include the Elk River, the Torch Lake Sandbar, and the East Bay. The Elk River is a small and tranquil river that offers a peaceful paddling experience, while the Torch Lake Sandbar is a popular spot for socializing and soaking up the sun. The East Bay is a calm and sheltered bay that is perfect for beginners or those seeking a more relaxed paddling experience.
Conclusion
Things to do in Traverse City, Michigan, is a city that truly has something for everyone. From the beautiful natural scenery to the vibrant art and dining scenes, Traverse City offers a wealth of experiences for visitors and locals alike. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful paddle down a river, a unique culinary experience, or a glimpse into the city’s history, Traverse City’s hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions are sure to delight and inspire. So pack your bags and head to Traverse City, where adventure and discovery await at every turn.
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