Hotels in Traverse City

Traverse City: Where Crystal Waters Embrace Sandy Shores

Nestled along the shimmering shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is a charming blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Known for its stunning beaches and picturesque cherry orchards, this delightful destination offers outdoor adventures, from hiking in the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to sailing on crystal-clear waters. Explore the lively downtown filled with boutique shops, local eateries, and wineries that showcase the region’s rich agricultural heritage. With its breathtaking sunsets and cozy resorts, Traverse City is perfect for romantic getaways, family vacations, or simply soaking in the serene lakeside ambiance.

Discover great hotels in Traverse City

Traverse City offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from cozy inns to upscale resorts. Enjoy beachfront stays with stunning views, spacious suites, and comfortable guest rooms. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you'll find the right hotel to suit your needs in this charming lakeside destination. Here are some of the best hotels in Traverse City that our travelers love:

1. Sleep Inn & Suites Bay View Acme - Travers CityOpens in a new window: Sleep Inn & Suites Bay View Acme - Travers City is a 2.5-star hotel that offers a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for leisure travelers seeking a pet-friendly experience. This property features a range of amenities that cater to those traveling with pets, ensuring an enjoyable stay. With its convenient location and various pet policy options, guests appreciate the thoughtful touches that make their visit memorable. The hotel creates a cozy environment that encourages relaxation and exploration, making it a popular choice for travelers looking for a unique getaway experience.
2. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Acme-Traverse City by IHGOpens in a new window: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Acme-Traverse City by IHG is a 2.5-star hotel designed to be an inclusive haven for LGBTQIA travelers. With a warm and welcoming ambiance, this hotel focuses on providing a distinctive experience that celebrates diversity. Guests enjoy the thoughtfully curated spaces and engaging atmosphere that promote connection and community. The property has received enthusiastic feedback for its commitment to creating a safe and vibrant environment, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable and affirming stay.
3. Grand Traverse Resort And SpaOpens in a new window: Grand Traverse Resort And Spa is a 3.5-star resort that offers an idyllic beach vacation experience. With direct access to the beach, this property allows guests to immerse themselves in sun-soaked days and stunning coastal views. The resort emphasizes relaxation and leisure, making it a prime destination for travelers looking to unwind. Guests rave about the resort's beautiful setting and thoughtful amenities that enhance their beach getaway. This hotel stands out as a top choice for those seeking a tranquil escape in a picturesque location.

Top locations to stay in Traverse City

When visiting Traverse City, Michigan, great areas to stay in include Greilickville, Grawn, and Old Mission. Greilickville offers beautiful waterfront views and sailing opportunities, Grawn is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with its nearby hiking and parks, while Old Mission is known for its stunning beaches and vineyards. For first-time visitors, Old Mission is the best choice, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and charm.

1. Old MissionOpens in a new window: For a serene getaway, Old Mission is an ideal choice. Nestled between two beautiful bays, it boasts stunning beaches and scenic landscapes perfect for relaxation and exploration. The Old Mission Peninsula is famous for its vineyards and wineries, offering delightful tastings and picturesque views. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking trails and biking paths that meander through the lush surroundings. Don't miss the iconic Old Mission Lighthouse, a lovely spot for photos and enjoying the waterfront views.
2. GreilickvilleOpens in a new window: Located near the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, Greilickville is a charming area that combines natural beauty with a laid-back atmosphere. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy sailing and water activities, with easy access to boat rentals and marinas. The nearby parks provide opportunities for picnicking and leisurely strolls along the waterfront. Plus, its proximity to Traverse City means you can easily explore local shops, cultural attractions, and seasonal festivals.
3. GrawnOpens in a new window: Grawn offers a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of larger tourist areas. This quaint community is surrounded by beautiful forests and offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking and biking. Nearby, you can find local markets and charming shops that showcase handmade goods and regional products. Grawn's friendly vibe makes it an excellent spot for travelers looking to immerse themselves in a more relaxed, local experience while still being close to Traverse City's attractions.

Things to do in Traverse City

Traverse City enchants visitors with its stunning lakeside beaches, lush forests, and rolling hills. Enjoy a day of boating, beach lounging, or hiking scenic trails, and unwind with vibrant festivals and local shopping in the charming downtown. As night falls, explore the lively atmosphere filled with dining and entertainment options, making it a must-visit destination for all.

• Haserot BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a sunny day at Haserot Beach, where the soft sands meet the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a picnic with family and friends, this beach offers a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
• Front StreetOpens in a new window – Stroll along Front Street, the heart of Traverse City, lined with charming boutiques, delightful cafes, and inviting restaurants. Take your time exploring unique shops, sampling local cuisine, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere that makes this area a favorite among visitors.
• City Opera HouseOpens in a new window – Step into the historic City Opera House, a beautifully restored venue that showcases a variety of performances. Whether you catch a play, concert, or dance recital, the stunning architecture and intimate setting enhance your experience, making each event truly special.
• Clinch ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy the outdoors at Clinch Park, an urban oasis with lush green spaces and scenic views of the bay. Kids will love the playground, while adults can unwind on the beach or take a leisurely walk along the waterfront path.
• Music House MuseumOpens in a new window – Discover the fascinating world of music at the Music House Museum, where vintage instruments and interactive exhibits tell the story of music through the ages. Engage with hands-on displays and learn about the evolution of sound in a fun and educational environment.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Traverse City

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Traverse City is during January, March, and December when hotel prices are lower. For a great value for money experience, plan to stay for at least 2 to 3 days to fully appreciate the area's key landmarks and cultural attractions. While you're there, explore local festivals, visit wineries, enjoy the beautiful lake, indulge in craft beer, and take part in boating tours. Don't miss out on the lovely beaches, shopping opportunities, golf courses, and even the local opera, all of which contribute to the rich cultural experience Traverse City has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To explore last-minute deals in Traverse City, check the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Enabling email alerts or push notifications can help you stay informed about flash sales, allowing you to save on your trip. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a handy comparison tool in the app that helps you compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best available options. This way, you can act quickly if prices drop or new rooms become available for your getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay in a Traverse City hotel. If you’re seeking something distinctive, boutique hotels can provide a more personalized experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is higher or lower than the average. If it’s on the pricier side, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Traverse City's great public transportation, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that still offers good connectivity. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, you can often find excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Traverse City

Traverse City experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 22.1°F (-5.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.4°F (20.2°C). October tends to be the wettest months.The peak travel months to visit Traverse City are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by no to light rainfall and very cloudy conditions.