Best Things to Do in Traverse City in Fall: Ultimate Guide to Autumn Adventures

There’s nothing quite like fall in northern Michigan! After living in the Traverse City area for over 35 years, I still look forward to this special season every single year. The cooler temperatures, beautiful fall colors, and small-town charm make autumn the perfect time to get out and explore. From gorgeous scenic drives, fall festivals, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and wine tastings with a view, fall around here is packed with fun things to do.

As a longtime local who’s always up for a good time (and a good glass of wine), I’ve rounded up some of my favorite fall happenings in this magical corner of the world. From color drives and cider stops, Halloween fun and harvest festivals, here’s your ultimate autumn guide to the best things to do in Traverse City in Fall.

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Best Scenic Fall Color Drives Near Traverse City

Autumn around Traverse City truly is something special. It’s one of the most beautiful times of year to explore the region. Peak color typically arrives around mid-October, but nature follows its own schedule, so checking local fall foliage updates can help you time your visit.

There’s no better way to enjoy the colors than to head out on a road trip. Here are four of my absolute favorite scenic fall drives near Traverse City.

For more details about these itineraries, check out our full guide: Best Fall Color Drives Near Traverse City

Old Mission Peninsula Drive

Just north of Traverse City, the Old Mission Peninsula juts out nearly 20 miles into Grand Traverse Bay. It’s a perfect autumn drive through rolling hills and farmland. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of scenic overlooks where you can pull over for panoramic views of vineyards, both the East and West bays, and beautiful fall colors.

The peninsula is home to a collection of top-notch wineries. Fall is prime time to visit – the grape harvest is in full swing, and many wineries offer new releases this time of year.

You’ll encounter numerous roadside stands along the way, overflowing with pumpkins, apples, and fresh fall produce.

At the tip of the peninsula, the historic Mission Point Lighthouse stands watch over a beautiful beach, providing a great opportunity to get out of the car and stretch your legs.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Winding through the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive delivers one of Northern Michigan’s Most spectacular fall color tours. This 7.4-mile loop makes its way through hardwood forests and dramatic dune landscapes.

Along the route, twelve designated stops offer stunning vistas of the Lake Michigan shoreline. Though beautiful in every season, fall is especially magnificent as the trees turn color. It’s a must-see for anyone in search of autumn colors.

The Tunnel of Trees Heritage Route

The Tunnel of Trees Heritage Route is a narrow, winding road along Lake Michigan’s shoreline famous for its dense canopy of trees that arch over the roadway. Stretching 20 miles from Harbor Springs to Cross Village, the route offers dozens of places to stop and take in the view, hike on a nature trail, shop for gifts and artwork, and get a bite to eat.

The tunnel is beautiful in any season of the year but is especially impressive in October when the fall colors are at their peak. (If you go at this time of year, be prepared for crowds!)

Cruise The Breezeway Fall Color Tour

The “Breezeway” is a beautiful rural route along C-48 that begins in Atwood, runs through the towns of Ellsworth and East Jordan, and ends up in Boyne Falls. This scenic drive winds through small towns, orchards and working farms.

There are plenty of stops to make along the way – scenic overlooks, artist galleries and studios, small town shops, restaurants, hiking trails and beautiful parks.

While you can drive the self-guided cruise any time on your own, there are big perks to attending on the official Cruise the Breezeway event, typically held the last Saturday in September and the first two Saturdays in October. On these event days, you’ll be treated to added fun with special events and discount coupons at local businesses.

Family-Friendly Fall Fun: Farm Markets, Donuts, and Corn Mazes (and Skybridge Michigan!)

Fall in the Traverse City area means apple picking, pumpkin patches, hayrides, corn mazes, and cider and donuts. Traverse City’s surrounding farms are perfect for family-friendly fun!

Jacob’s Farm: Corn Maze, U‑Pick Apples & Cider and Donuts

For many locals, fall just doesn’t feel complete without a trip to Jacob’s Farm. Located along M-72 on the west side of Traverse City, this Centennial Farm is famous for its massive corn maze!

Each year, the ten-acre maze is cut into a unique theme. Designs in the past have included Alice in Wonderland, the circus, dinosaurs, and pyramids. In 2025, the maze pays tribute to the grown-up kids among us with a theme inspired by the legendary band the Grateful Dead. This year’s design features the band’s iconic “Steal Your Face” logo—complete with a few cherries tossed in, honoring Traverse City’s status as the Cherry Capital of the World.

After tackling the maze, warm up by the bonfire with a cup of fresh pressed apple cider and a homemade donut. There’s a full bar and restaurant on site, with live music in the evening. When I visit, there is almost always a wood-fired pizza involved!

Jacob’s Farm is located at 7100 East Traverse Highway (M-72)

Gallagher’s Farm Market & Bakery

Gallagher’s Farm Market & Bakery is a family-friendly roadside market that sells in-season produce straight from their farm, plus fresh pies, breads and pastries created in their bakery. You can also purchase other local products like jams and jellies, honey, maple syrup, and wine.

Kids can play in a small barnyard area, and visit the pigs, chicken and goats.

Fall is a great time to visit – you can stock up on squash, apples, grapes, kale, lettuce, onions and potatoes. And of course, all things pumpkin – Gallagher’s is famous for making some of the best pumpkin donuts around. Be sure to grab some of their incredible pizza bread if you’re visiting on a weekend.

Gallagher’s is located at 7237 E. Traverse Hwy (M-72) on the west side of Traverse City.

Cory Holman’s Pumpkin Patch

Are you touring Old Mission Peninsula on an October weekend and suddenly have a craving for cider and donuts? Head to Cory Holman’s Pumpkin Patch – their pumpkin donuts are amazing!

Each year from the end of September through Halloween, rows upon rows of pumpkins of all shapes and sizes are laid out under the cherry trees. Cory’s also has apples, colorful gourds, squash, and cornstalks. Cider and donuts are available on the weekends.

You’ll find the Pumpkin Patch at 12926 Center Road, about 3/4 of a mile north of the Chateau Grand Traverse winery. Keep an eye out for their pumpkin sign – it’s easy to drive right on past.

Myrtle & Maude’s

For Farm Market fun on the north side of Traverse City, drive 20 minutes or so to Myrtle & Maude’s. This 4th generation cherry and apple farm hosts seasonal events throughout the year, but fall is definitely my favorite time to visit.

The market open 7 days a week. Drop by for farm fresh apples and U-pick pumpkins. Dig into homemade pies, ice cream, cider and donuts, and one of Maude’s famous caramel apples.

Check out their gift store for Michigan products, unique gifts and vintage decor.

Kids can hit the play area and pay a visit to Patsy Cline, the resident mini-Highland cow, and Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, two friendly goats.

Plan your visit for the weekend to hop on a tractor pulled wagon farm tour, football on the big outdoor screen and a crackling bonfire.

Myrtle & Maude’s is located at 10981 Elk Lake Road in Williamsburg.

Moomers Ice Cream

A local favorite just outside Traverse City, Moomers has been serving up rich, creamy homemade ice cream for more than 20 years. The milk comes from their own cows grazing just steps away.

Each day, 20 flavors are available from a rotating lineup of over 160 throughout the year, so there’s always something new to try. Their homemade waffle cones are legendary! Beyond scoops, Moomers also whips up decadent ice cream pies and cakes, thick shakes, malts, sundaes, and a classic root beer float.

Fall is a great time to visit. Enjoy a scoop of their apple crisp ice cream – cinnamon ice cream with chunks of fresh homemade apple crisp. Or indulge in some pumpkin chip ice cream – pumpkin ice cream with pieces of homemade pumpkin chip cookies.

Head to Moomers Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in October through Halloween to take the family on a themed I Spy wagon ride around the 75 acre dairy farm. Keep an eye out for ghosts, goblins, witches – and cows, of course!

Call 231-941-4122 for reservations. Wagon rides are $5.00 per person for ages 2 and up. Or reserve the entire wagon for $100, and have up to 25 people climb on board.

SkyBridge Michigan

Head to Boyne Mountain Resort in Boyne Falls for a one-of-a-kind experience – walk across the world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge. It’s just over an hour’s drive from Traverse City, but a walk across SkyBridge Michigan is absolutely worth it!

This massive pedestrian suspension bridge stretches over 1,200 feet across the Boyne Valley, with breathtaking panoramic views. It’s especially stunning during peak fall color.

Take the two-person Hemlock chairlift to the top of the mountain and enjoy a peaceful ride through the trees. at the top, make your way to the SkyBridge. Be prepared – the bridge does sway a bit, especially when there are a lot of people on it!

On the far side, don’t miss the paved loop trail. It’s an easy walk and gives you a spectacular perspective of the bridge itself. You can either follow the full loop back to the chairlift or retrace your steps to cross the bridge once again.

Feeling hungry? You can buy pierogies and other goodies from the Sky Bridge Food truck once you’ve crossed the bridge. Or visit the Eagles Nest at the top of the chairlift for burgers, chili and other refreshments.

Tickets for October weekends sell out quickly and must be bought online ahead of time. Rates vary according to demand, but plan on spending about $30 for an adult ticket.

Pro Tip: Visit the SkyBridge during the week if you can. Weekends during the peak color season are packed!

Salmon Run at the Boardman River Fish Weir

A truly unique natural event takes place in Traverse City every fall -the annual salmon run at the Boardman River Fish Weir.

The life cycle of these remarkable fish begins right here in the Boardman River. After hatching in its freshwater currents, young salmon make their way out to the vast waters of Lake Michigan. Several years later, the adult salmon return to the river where their lives began in order to mate, lay eggs and die.

The salmon battle their way upstream, until they are blocked by the Boardman Weir. Visitors can witness Chinook, CoHo, and King salmon leaping up the fish ladder into the facility’s holding bays. When 1,000 or so salmon have congregated, they are brought inside of the facility for harvesting.

The salmon are processed into fillets, smoked salmon, and pet food. Their eggs are collected to support the Department of Fisheries’ ongoing breeding program. Other species, like steelhead and lake trout, that are caught in the weir are carefully released upstream.

The salmon run typically begins in the third week of September and continues through the end of October.

The fish weir is located at 118 Hall Street near downtown Traverse City. Salmon are visible in the river and the fish ladder throughout the day, but if you’d like to witness the harvesting and sorting process, call 231-922-5280 for weekly schedules.

Fall Festivals and Events in and around Traverse City

There’s just something about fall in Traverse City. As the leaves change from green to yellow, orange and crimson, the town fills up with music, laughter and celebration. Autumn is one of the most event-packed seasons in the region! From porch concerts and corn mazes, wine tasting and zombie runs – here’s what’s happening in and around Traverse City in the fall.

Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk

The official start of fall in northern Michigan begins with the annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk. It’s the only day of the year when people are allowed to walk across the Mackinac Bridge!

The Mackinac Bridge is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Traverse City. This wildly popular event is absolutely worth the drive! The “Mighty Mac” is five miles long, connecting Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to its Lower Peninsula.

Held on Labor Day every year, the event begins at 7:00 am. Watching the sun rise over the Straits of Mackinac as you walk high above the water is a one-of-a-kind experience! You be treated to breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron. Ambitious walkers can do the ten-mile round trip, but you must be at the halfway point of the bridge by 10:00 in order to finish around noon.

Walkers can start from either side of the bridge. I recommend beginning in St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula and walking across to Mackinaw City in the Lower Peninsula. That way, you can hop in your car and head back to Traverse rather than being transported back to St. Ignace in the crowds.

The most popular way to be transported back to your vehicle is by booking a ferry to cross the Staits of Mackinac. Ferries depart St. Ignace and Mackinaw City at specified times and capacity is limited, so book your ferry in advance. in 2025, tickets were $25 for adults and $15 for children under 12.

No registration is required for crossing the bridge, and the walk is free to attend.

Central Neighborhood’s PorchFest

Traverse City’s PorchFest just might be my favorite fall event! For one magical Sunday afternoon each September, Traverse City’s historic Central Neighborhood transforms into an open-air music festival, where dozens of local musicians volunteer their time and talent to perform on front porches of local homes. It’s a lovely, music-filled afternoon filled with camaraderie!

Hosted by the Traverse City Central Neighborhood Association, this family-friendly outdoor event showcases musical acts from 5th Street to 11th Street. Neighbors and visitors stroll or bike through tree-lined streets in search of their favorite music, ranging from country to classical, jazz, rock, and pop.

I check the PorchFest online schedule, and head out along leafy streets in search of my favorite acts. I love to kick off my PorchFest tour with a high energy performance by Traverse City West High School’s Drumline. On to Vertical Limit for classic rock, Jesse Jefferson for an amazing diversity of hit tunes, Hammer’d for the sounds of dulcimer, concertina, bodhrán, and marimbula, and The Happy Time Banjo Band: pure joy in musical form!

 PorchFest is typically held the second Sunday in September, from 1-5 p.m.

Fall Fido Fest

Black Star Farms is hosting its third annual Fido Fest on Sunday, October 26, 2025, from 1:00 -4:00. Bring your pup for a doggy-filled afternoon including an agility course, a treat trail, doggie costume contest, face painting and food vendors – for people and pets! Visit pet-related businesses such as vet clinics, animal rescue organizations and vendors selling products for dogs.

And while you’re there, indulge in of of their specialty drinks created for just for the fall. My favorite is the Cidermosa – Sparkling dry Riesling and apple cider, with a caramel and cinnamon sugar rim. Delicious!

For more information visit Black Star Farms Fido Fest.

Where to Hike and Bike Near Traverse City in the Fall

I love hiking and biking around the Traverse city area in the fall. The leaves are turning color and the summer crowds have thinned out – it’s one of the most peaceful and beautiful times to explore the outdoors in northern Michigan. Traverse City and its surrounding countryside are made for this season—with trails to wander, bike paths to pedal, shorelines to explore, and scenic overlooks with beautiful views.

Boardman Lake Loop

For a shorter, more accessible drive or bike ride, the Boardman Lake Loop in Traverse City offers a scenic fall experience right within town. This roughly 7-mile loop is circles Boardman Lake. Much of the trail is heavily wooded alternating with water views.

Along the way, you can stop in at the Traverse Area District Library, grab picnic supplies at Oryana Community Co-op, down a craft beer at Right Brain Brewery, and head into The Filling Station for flatbread pizza.

Because it’s close to downtown, this loop is ideal for visitors who want a quick but beautiful taste of Michigan’s fall. It takes about an hour and a half to walk the entire loop, unless you make stops along the way.

Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area

Once the site of a 19th-century psychiatric hospital, The Village At Grand Traverse Commons has evolved into one of Traverse City’s most unique and beloved destinations. Just blocks away from downtown Traverse City, sprawling campus blends historic Victorian architecture with an eclectic mix of shops, cafés, restaurants, and art galleries — all surrounded by beautiful northern Michigan parklands.

(The image of pedestrian foot bridge at the top of this post was taken on the grounds of the Village)

Behind the Village lies the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area, 140 acres of unpaved trails perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. The wood‑chip paths weave through hills, woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. The area is especially beautiful in the fall as the autumn light filters through the trees and their reds, yellows, and oranges light up every trail.

Hikers will find plenty to love here, from easy strolls beneath towering maples and oaks to steeper climbs that lead to scenic overlooks with views of the Village grounds and Traverse City below. Don’t forget your camera!

For bike enthusiasts, the Commons Natural Area is a hidden gem in the fall. The trails feature some steep sections and a network of roots and bumps that make them best suited for intermediate and advanced riders looking for a bit of adventure.

Insider tip: Trail signage is limited, so it’s smart to download a trail map or use a navigation app before you head out.

The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail

Ready to hit the bike trail? The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail offers a beautiful 20-mile ride stretching from Point Oneida to Empire. Most of it is nicely paved, though you’ll hit a few stretches of packed gravel. If you ride the whole thing, be ready for rolling terrain and some challenging hills—but the scenery makes it totally worth it.

The trail winds through forests and wide-open fields, and in the fall, the foliage is incredible. Want a closer look at each section of the trail? The Friends of Sleeping Bear is a nonprofit that provides a detailed trail description and gives helpful tips for planning your ride.

Wineries and Cideries

Fall is the perfect season for winery visits. It’s harvest season, and the spotlight shifts to the region’s rich red varietals that shine this time of year. Many local wineries roll out new releases and offer special pours that capture the flavors of the season.

The Hunt for the Reds of October

The Hunt For The Reds of October is a hugely popular annual event hosted by the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. Purchase a ticket online for only $10 and visit participating wineries (over 20 of them in 2025!) for a pour of red wine hand-selected by the local wine makers.

This is my idea of how fine red wines should be enjoyed! There’s nothing quite like savoring a rich Cabernet Franc or smooth Merlot while surrounded by the vibrant fall colors of the Leelanau Peninsula at this time of year.

When you buy your ticket, you’ll choose your starting location. Then head to your designated winery to pick up your physical ticket and commemorative wine glass. You’ll also receive $10 in “cork cash”, which can be used at any of the participating wineries.

The best part? The event runs throughout the entire month of October, giving ticket holders the flexibility to explore the wine trail at their own pace. You can make a weekend out of it or stretch your visits over a couple of weeks – you’ll have plenty of time to savor fine wine and take in Leelanau’s beautiful fall foliage.

Reservations are highly recommended.

Hallowine at Bel Lago!

Ready for some adult-style Halloween magic? Warm your spirits at Bel Lago Vineyards & Winery on October 31st. Enjoy fine wines, mulled cider and a variety of cold ciders. Share a pizza or warm up with a bowl of chili.

Dominic Fortuna will be performing from 3:30 pm until 6:00. He plays a wide variety of music, from Sinatra to salsa.

Top it all off with a panoramic view of South Lake Leelanau. It’s Halloween – costumes are encouraged! 

Bel Lago is located at 6530 South Lake Shore Drive in Cedar.

Oyster Social at Brengman Family Wines

Looking for an upscale culinary experience? Head to Café Exalt at Brengman Family Wines on Fridays and Saturdays. They are hosting Oyster Socials throughout the fall and winter.

From noon until close, you can indulge in fresh Island Creek oysters served raw or grilled. Or try small plates like ahi tuna ceviche (with mango, veggies, and lime juice) and sushi-grade salmon poke in a citrusy soy marinade.

Not in the mood for seafood? You’re in luck! The menu also includes beef carpaccio – chilled tenderloin topped with shaved parmesan, microgreens, and a lemon truffle vinaigrette.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a true Brengman experience without exceptional wine pairings. The winery is especially known for its Gewurztraminer, an aromatic white that thrives in Northern Michigan’s cool climate.

Those who prefer red wines will love the DaGudScht Red Blend, a smooth combination of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Want something a little different? Go for the Viva Magenta – a pink Rosé style wine that’s a bright, rosé-style blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Viognier.

Beyond the cold bar specials, Café Exalt also offers a full regular menu featuring a variety of locally sources, chef-prepared dishes. Think artisanal charcuterie and cheese boards, seasonal pizzas, and small plates like seared scallops, shrimp scampi, or a juicy 8 oz filet mignon.

The winery is located at 9720 S Center Hwy on the west side of Traverse City.

Traverse City Halloween Highlights

Halloween in Traverse City isn’t just one night -it’s celebrated over several weeks during the month of October. From marveling at the decorations in the Central Neighborhood, voting for your favorite Halloween themed window display downtown or parading in costume, this town knows how to deliver the magic of Halloween!

Downtown Haunts and Harvest Window Walk

During the last two weeks of October, The Downtown Traverse City Association hosts their annual Haunts & Harvest Window Walk, where local merchants go all-out decorating their shop windows, competing for the coveted People’s Choice Award.

Locals and visitors alike can stroll along the sidewalks of downtown, check out the autumn and Halloween-themed displays, and vote for their favorites. Just scan QR codes on event posters at participating storefronts to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award. You can vote multiple times!

It’s a great way to celebrate fall and discover local shops and businesses. 

Traverse City’s Best Decorated Neighborhood

Central Neighborhood in Traverse City is known for enthusiastic holiday decorating – at Halloween and again at Christmas time. Walk the sidewalks alongside historic homes located between Sixth and Tenth Streets and Union and Division Streets, and enjoy the Halloween spirit on full display.

Houses are adorned with pumpkins, mummys, scarecrows, ghosts and witches, bats and skeletons. We like to go after dark, when colored lights make it even more festive!

Tip from a Local: In past years, fans of Halloween crossed over Division Steet to marvel at the “Dead Ends on Spruce”, a theatrical display put on by a local homeowner. Sadly, the decorations won’t be out in 2025 due to family circumstances – they assure us they will be back in 2026!

The Traverse City Zombie-Run

Traverse City’s annual Zombie Run will be held on Saturday, October 25th in 2025. A Zombie-themed 5k run Begins at 9:00 am at Right Brain Brewery 225 E. Sixteenth Street in Traverse City. Hundreds of runners, walkers and 4-legged friends in full Zombie makeup will fill the streets of Traverse City.

A medal ceremony follows the race, along with prizes for best costumes, live music, and refreshments. Plus beer, of course!

Tickets for adults are $30.00. All proceeds benefit TART Trails. Sign up here to register for the Zombie Run.

Downtown Traverse City Halloween Walk

In town the last Saturday of October? If you have little ones in tow, don’t miss the beloved Downtown Halloween Walk —a free, family-friendly tradition that draws out thousands of children and their families each year.

Kids are encouraged to dress up as their favorite ghosts, goblins, superheroes, or storybook characters and trick-or-treat their way to dozens of businesses along the 100 and 200 blocks of East Front Street. Merchants on adjoining Cass, Union and State Streets are also handing out treats.

Storefronts are all decked out with Halloween decorations, and costumed shopkeepers from participating businesses hand out candy and big smiles. It’s an ideal way to get into the spirit of Halloween!

The Halloween Walk is held the last Saturday of October from 10:00 – 11:30 am. Volunteers are stationed along the route to help direct trick-or-treaters in a counterclockwise flow, and assist at pedestrian crosswalks.

What’s Happening in Traverse City in November

As the last of the fall colors fade and the lakeshore quiets down, November brings its own charm to Traverse City. Here are a few highlights to add to your itinerary.

Mac & Cheese Bake-Off

We always look forward to the annual Mac & Cheese Bake-Off on Old Mission Peninsula. Just when we’re getting tired of leftover turkey, this culinary event gives us the opportunity to indulge in a cheesy pick-me-up!

Hosted by the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend, the Mac & Cheese Bake-Off pairs unique macaroni-and-cheese creations from local restaurants and chefs with signature pours from 10 wineries along the peninsula.

Ticket holders begin their tasting adventure at the winery where they purchased their tickets. By starting at different locations along the trail, guests naturally stagger their arrival times, helping to keep the event flowing smoothly.

Then comes the hard part – event attendees vote for their favorites: the cheesiest dish, the best food and wine pairing, and best overall experience.

It was a tough choice, but in 2026 I voted for the cheesy goodness created by The Artisan at Mari vineyards – butternut squash mac & cheese with bacon and a rosemary crunch topping. (no calorie counting allowed!!)

It all adds up to an enjoyable day spent winding along rolling hills and beautiful scenery of Old Mission Peninsula. Many of the wineries have special deals on wine purchases and merchandise. This highly popular event sells out every year, so get your tickets early.

Pro Tip: Do not miss the spiked hot apple cider at Brys Estate and Vineyard! It’s a delicious blend of Riesling wine, apple cider, and mulling spices – the perfect way to warm up on a cold November day!

November Holiday Events

November also marks the start of the holiday season in Traverse City. The Festival of Trees, Santa’s arrival and the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree all happen around Thanksgiving. I cover those celebrations in more detail in my guide to the best holiday events in Traverse City.

Where to Stay in Traverse City

Luxury Option: The Alexandra Inn

Locally owned and operated, The Alexandra Inn is known for exceptional hospitality and personalized service. This boutique hotel is located right on the waterfront with its own private beach and beautiful views of East Grand Traverse Bay.

It features 32 guest rooms, giving the Alexandra a more intimate feel than nearby larger hotels.

What sets the Alexandra apart? The Blush Rooftop Terrace! with a view: panoramic views of East Grand Traverse Bay he rooftop at Alexandra Inn is one of the best places to take in a sunset over fall foliage. Bring a blanket, sip a seasonal cocktail or warm drink, and watch the colors change across the bay.

Mid-Range Option: Park Place Hotel & Conference Center

Park Place Hotel is located right in the heart of downtown Traverse City. Numerous shops and restaurants are all within walking distance, as well as the historic City Opera House and the State Theater.

The Beacon Lounge is located on the 10th floor of the hotel with beautiful views of Grand Traverse Bay. Guests can enjoy appetizers, beverages and live music while watching the sun go down.

Minerva’s Restaurant is located in the hotel lobby and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The hotel offers a free shuttle to Cherry Capital Airport.

Budget Friendly Option: Sugar Beach Resort Hotel

Sugar Beach Resort Hotel is located right on the beach of Grand Traverse Bay. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the sunrise!

The hotel has a fitness center and a heated indoor pool and hot tub – which means you can swim not matter what the weather!

The Wrap-Up

As the air becomes cooler and the days grow shorter, Traverse City offers the perfect autumn getaway. No matter when you visit in the fall, chances are there’s something fun happening nearby!

Get out an enjoy the autumn colors – pair your scenic drive with a stop at a farm stand, a hike through a nature preserve, or a glass of wine at a local winery—and you’ve got the perfect fall day. Take in a fall festival or find your way through a corn maze. There are so many great things to do in Traverse City in fall!