Traverse City vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Traverse City vacation rentals

Stay near Traverse City's top sights

Traverse City State Park18 locals recommend
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons130 locals recommend
Grand Traverse Mall31 locals recommend
Clinch Park89 locals recommend
Great Wolf Lodge7 locals recommend
Park Place Hotel and Conference Center19 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Traverse City

Total rentals

840 properties

Rentals with dedicated workspaces

480 properties have a dedicated workspace

Rentals with a pool

20 properties have a pool

Pet-friendly rentals

190 properties allow pets

Family-friendly rentals

480 properties are a good fit for families

Total number of reviews

53K reviews

Your guide to Traverse City

All About Traverse City

Traverse City has emerged as one of the most charming getaways along the Lake Michigan shore, beloved for its natural setting, its historic small-town architecture, and its vibrant music and art scene. Whether you’re exploring by bike or car, you'll want to devote a day to the majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes, and spend several more visiting wineries and small coastal towns such as Williamsburg, Glen Arbor, and Suttons Bay. A finger of land extends from Traverse City into Lake Michigan, splitting Grand Traverse Bay in two, and you can drive its length to the lighthouse at the end. This corner of northern Michigan is known for its cherry orchards, and summer offers a profusion of fresh fruit and pies. There’s even a cherry festival in July.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Traverse City

The lower peninsula of Michigan has four distinct seasons. Both spring (April-May) and fall (October-November) are gorgeous, with cool temperatures and plenty of color, whether spring wildflowers or autumn leaves. Summer begins properly in June, which boasts some of the best weather of the year. Peak heat and peak humidity arrive together in July and August, with many days in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. While sunny days are frequent in summer, so are rains, so bring rain jackets along with your shorts and sunblock, and keep bug spray around for the evening mosquito onslaught. Winters this far north get cold — really cold — and plenty of snow comes off the lake. Pack plenty of layers and sturdy outerwear.


Top things to do in Traverse City

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Stretching along 64 miles of Lake Michigan coast, Sleeping Bear Dunes is a national treasure. During the warm months, you can relax on the sandy beaches and canoe in the rivers. The 22-mile paved Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is the easiest to navigate by foot, bike, and wheelchair; other trails for hikers climb up the bluffs or plunge into the forests.

Village at Grand Traverse Commons

Not far outside downtown Traverse City is a complex of striking Victorian brick buildings and wooded parklands. This former psychiatric hospital, which opened in 1885 and closed a century later, fell into disrepair until a massive redevelopment project brought it back to life. Now it is home to condos, offices, and boutiques. You can take a historic tour of the unrestored buildings and tunnels, or stick to the restaurants, bars, and a warren of artisan shops.

Interlochen Center for the Arts

Most years, Interlochen, located 15 miles south of Traverse City, hosts hundreds of concerts, theater performances, and other events. Many are free and outdoors, and their frequency crescendos in summer, when the center’s youth camps draw students from all over the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Traverse City?

    Traverse City experiences a four-season climate. Summers are warm, topping out at around 80°F (27°C), while winters can be cold, dropping down to about 16°F (-9°C) with frequent snowfall. Fall and spring bring milder temperatures, making them ideal times to explore the stunning changing colours of the region.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Traverse City?

    Traverse City has numerous activities to enjoy. You can explore the Dennos Museum Center, walk along the Grand Traverse Bay beaches, or enjoy the great outdoors at Clinch Park. For those interested in local history, a visit to the Village at Grand Traverse Commons is often recommended.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Traverse City?

    The most frequented time to visit Traverse City is during the summer months, with July's National Cherry Festival being a particular draw. This event celebrates the city's cherry industry and features parades, fireworks, and cherry-based culinary delights.

  • What are the best places to stay in Traverse City?

    Downtown Traverse City, with its proximity to beaches and shopping, is an often recommended area to stay in. Old Mission Peninsula is favored for its serene vineyards and waterfront views, while Acme is popular for its proximity to the Grand Traverse Resort and other golf courses.

  • What are the best places to visit in Traverse City?

    Popular places to visit in Traverse City include the Mission Point Lighthouse, the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and the historically significant Village at Grand Traverse Commons. The city's downtown area, with its charming boutiques and restaurants, also draws many visitors.

  • What are some hiking trails in Traverse City?

    Traverse City has several hiking trails for all types of adventurers. The Boardman River Trail is a 3-mile (5 km) trail that follows the scenic Boardman River, while the 5-mile (8 km) TART Trails pass through urban and rural areas, providing a variety of landscapes. Grand Traverse Commons is another option, an urban parkland featuring a network of paths and trails through wooded areas.

  • What are some family activities to do in Traverse City?

    Families visiting Traverse City have many activities to choose from. They can enjoy a day at the Great Lakes Children's Museum, explore the exhibits at the Dennos Museum Center, or have an outdoor adventure at the Traverse City State Park. A walk along the TART trail is also a pleasant family activity.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Traverse City?

    Day trips from Traverse City frequently suggested include exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, touring the wineries and lighthouses on Old Mission Peninsula, or spending the day at Torch Lake, known for its crystal clear waters.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Traverse City?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 480 vacation rentals in Traverse City featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Traverse City?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Traverse City. Choose from more than 190 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

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