This 7.5-mile Scenic Route Is One of the Midwest's Most Beautiful Drives With Lake Views, Dune Hikes, and a Charming Coastal Town
"For outdoor adventures, rent a kayak, paddleboard, or pontoon to spend the day on Grand Traverse Bay." - Taryn White
Taryn White
Taryn White is a D.C.-based travel writer who covers a wide range of topics, including family travel, hotels, food, aviation, beaches, historical and cultural topics, and wellness travel. She can often be spotted around the world with her husband and two travel-loving kids.
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The Traverse Wine Coast Is the 'Napa of the Midwest'
"Deep waters of Grand Traverse Bay create ideal conditions for growing European grapes like riesling and cabernet franc despite snowy winters." - Iona Brannon
Iona Brannon
Iona Brannon is a journalist with a love for food and travel. Her work has appeared in Afar, Bon Appétit, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider, among other publications.
Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
Visited with a group of friends and took a long bike ride along both sides of Old Mission Peninsula. The rolling terrain, vineyards and orchards, and beautiful shorelines make this a great location to visit, especially for a cyclist. Took the ride in the evening and timed it perfectly, to watch the sunset on the west side of the bay.
James S.
Google
Can’t beat this place! Blessed to live here and enjoy it every day!
Peter C.
Google
Nice place, very scenic.
Zane G
Google
Very beautiful lake! Have a vacation home and it’s right on the beach. The sunsets are also extremely pretty.
Lynn “.
Google
I live on the West Bay, so kind of partial! Beautiful place, beautiful lake, what more could you want? To live here full time....yep....priceless. Come and enjoy, lots to do on the water, on the shore, or in Traverse City. Fantastic place, highly recommend ;)
Kevin F.
Google
No place like it on Earth. Peaceful, serene and gorgeous views.
Anti E.
Google
The view of it from Cherry Tree Inn is beautiful. The sunset and sunrise is absolutely gorgeous. The water is so calm and relaxed right now. Looking at the coast line is just absolutely beautiful. If you live in Michigan it is a must see. Good fishing area all throughout the bay close to the shoreline and way out as well. At night it is beautiful seing the shoreline lit up watching the cars go by and starring at the bay this dark. It meditates me and makes me feel relaxed.