Fall in Traverse City, Michigan is magical. As the leaves turn golden and the air cools, this lakeside town transforms into a colorful paradise. Whether you’re into food, festivals, wine, or nature, there’s something here for everyone. Planning a fall getaway? Then you’ll love this list of things to do in Traverse City Michigan in the fall. It’s packed with weekend plans, cozy activities, and festive December ideas too. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Top Scenic Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall
Traverse City is one of the best places in Michigan to experience fall foliage. The colors burst into vivid shades of orange, red, and gold by late September. Take a scenic drive along M-22, one of the most iconic routes in the U.S., especially from Traverse City to Northport. This winding road hugs the Lake Michigan shoreline and passes through charming towns, wineries, and panoramic overlooks.
Make a stop at Inspiration Point—a breathtaking overlook near Arcadia. Another great route is the drive around Old Mission Peninsula. Lined with orchards and forests, it offers picture-perfect fall scenes at every turn. Don’t forget your camera!
This activity is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Roll down your windows, breathe in that crisp autumn air, and enjoy the ride. If you’re visiting Traverse City this weekend, this scenic drive should top your list.
📍View Old Mission Peninsula on Google Maps
🌐 Learn more: Pure Michigan Fall Color Tours
2.Capture Fall Foliage at Sleeping Bear Dunes – A Must-Do Thing in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall
Just a short drive west of Traverse City, Sleeping Bear Dunes is a must-visit in fall. This national lakeshore is home to towering sand dunes, hardwood forests, and peaceful inland lakes. Fall blankets the landscape in color, making hikes here unforgettable.
Try the Empire Bluff Trail, a short 1.5-mile hike with stunning views over Lake Michigan. Or visit Pyramid Point for one of the best panoramic views of the shoreline. Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds in the fall make it the perfect time to explore.
Pack a picnic, wear good hiking shoes, and bring water. There are also ranger-led programs in the fall—ideal for families or anyone curious about the park’s history and wildlife. You’ll truly feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
📍Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor Center
🌐 Explore more at nps.gov/slbe
3. Visit Local Wineries – One of the Top Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall
Northern Michigan is known for its wine, especially Rieslings and cool-climate reds. Fall is harvest season, which means many wineries host special tastings, grape stomping, and scenic vineyard tours.
Drive up the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail or the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail. Some must-visit spots include:
-
Chateau Chantal – Known for its views and cozy tasting room.
-
Mari Vineyards – Beautiful architecture and bold reds.
-
Black Star Farms – Offers farm-to-table dining and horse stables.
The changing leaves surrounding the vines only add to the experience. Sip wine while watching the sunset? Yes, please. If you’re wondering about things to do in Traverse City MI this weekend, this is a great choice for couples or friends.
📍Chateau Chantal Google Maps
🌐 Visit Traverse Wine Coast
4. Stroll Through Downtown – One of the Coziest Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall
Fall is the perfect time to explore downtown Traverse City. The main street—Front Street—is lined with boutiques, bookstores, and cafés. Leaves crunch underfoot as you stroll past historic buildings and cozy storefronts.
Pop into Horizon Books, a local favorite with three floors of books and a charming café. Grab coffee from BLK MRKT Coffee, or indulge in a sweet treat at Moomers Ice Cream, which also offers fall flavors like pumpkin and cinnamon.
Looking for something more artsy? Check out The Dennos Museum Center, featuring contemporary art and cultural exhibits. And don’t miss the Traverse City Film Festival building, the iconic State Theatre.
No matter what time you visit—whether it’s this weekend or in December—downtown always has a warm, welcoming vibe.
📍Downtown Traverse City Map
🌐 Explore shops at downtowntc.com
5. Attend Fall Festivals – Festive Things to Do in Traverse City MI This Fall Season
Fall festivals in Traverse City are a big deal. From pumpkins and cider to art and live music, these events offer fun for everyone. A top pick? The Harvest Stompede, held every September along the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. It includes a scenic vineyard run, wine tastings, and harvest-themed meals.
In October, don’t miss the Downtown TC Fall Festival with hayrides, apple bobbing, and pumpkin decorating for kids. For something quirky, check out the Empire Hops Festival, which celebrates Michigan’s booming hops industry with beer samples, live music, and food trucks.
There are also smaller events every weekend—from cider tastings to haunted corn mazes. If you’re looking for things to do in Traverse City this weekend, check out the event calendars and plan your trip around one of these festivals.
📍Event Calendar – Traverse City
🌐 Learn more: Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail Events
6. Hike Through Autumn Colors – Must-Do Outdoor Things in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall
One of the absolute best ways to enjoy fall in Traverse City is by hitting the trails. The region is filled with hiking spots that come alive with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, there’s a trail for you.
A local favorite is the Boardman Lake Trail, which loops around a peaceful lake just minutes from downtown. It’s a relatively flat, 4-mile path perfect for an afternoon stroll among changing leaves. Want something more challenging? Head to Brown Bridge Quiet Area. It offers over 6 miles of trails winding through hilly, wooded terrain and stunning river views.
Don’t forget to dress in layers and bring a camera. The cool weather makes hiking a breeze, and the fall views are nothing short of stunning. For families, Hickory Hills is a great spot with short, kid-friendly trails and elevated views of the city surrounded by forested hills.
📍Brown Bridge Quiet Area Map
🌐 Find more hikes on Traverse City Trails
7. Visit Pumpkin Patches – Classic Fall Things to Do in Traverse City This Weekend
There’s no fall without pumpkins—and Traverse City has some of the cutest pumpkin patches in Michigan. These farms are more than just places to pick a pumpkin. They’re full-blown fall experiences.
Gallagher’s Farm Market is a must-visit. This local gem offers hayrides, a petting zoo, cider donuts, and an endless patch of pumpkins in every shape and size. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to snap that perfect fall Instagram shot.
Another fun spot is Jacob’s Farm, where you’ll find a massive corn maze, a pumpkin patch, and even hard cider on tap for adults. In the evening, they host live music and bonfires—a cozy fall vibe you can’t resist.
The best part? These farms are just minutes from downtown. So you can go from pumpkin picking to wine tasting in no time. Make sure to check their schedules for weekend events!
📍Gallagher’s Farm Market on Google Maps
🌐 Visit Jacob’s Farm TC
Go Apple Picking – A Fun Fall Thing to Do in Traverse City MI with Family
If you’re looking for wholesome fall fun, go apple picking. Traverse City is surrounded by orchards bursting with crisp, juicy apples—ready for plucking.
One of the best spots is King Orchards, located just 30 minutes north of town. This family-run farm grows a variety of apples, from tart Granny Smiths to sweet Honeycrisps. You can pick your own, try fresh-pressed cider, and stock up on pies and jams.
Closer to town, Hilltop Orchards offers U-pick apples and a quaint market with homemade treats. Their cider slushies and fresh donuts are must-tries. Bring your own bag or grab one on-site, and get ready to fill it to the brim.
This is a great activity for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a peaceful, delicious way to spend an afternoon. And yes, many orchards let you taste before you pick. Win-win!
📍King Orchards Google Maps
🌐 Explore more at Traverse City Farms
9. Stay in a Lakeside Cabin – Relaxing Things to Do in Traverse City in the Fall
Fall is the perfect season for a cozy escape. The summer crowds are gone, and the crisp, cool nights make it ideal for fireside relaxing. Whether you want to stay in a rustic cabin or a luxury lodge, Traverse City has a spot for you.
Try The Homestead in Glen Arbor for a luxury lakeside experience with fall colors surrounding you. Looking for something more intimate? Airbnb is full of rustic log cabins and A-frame cottages tucked away in the woods. Many offer fireplaces, hot tubs, and views of Lake Michigan or inland forests.
For the best experience, book a stay on the Old Mission Peninsula. You’ll be close to wineries, hiking trails, and endless scenic beauty. Some rentals even provide complimentary bikes or kayaks.
Nothing beats waking up to mist over the lake and trees painted in fall hues. Pro tip: book early, especially if you’re planning a weekend trip!
📍Old Mission Peninsula Cabins
🌐 Find stays on Visit Up North Vacation Rentals
10. Sip Fall Brews and Ciders – Top Tasting Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall
Sure, Traverse City is famous for wine—but beer and cider lovers won’t be disappointed. Fall is cider season, and the local scene is bubbling with unique flavors and cozy taprooms.
Start with Left Foot Charley, located in The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. It’s part winery, part cidery—and they’re known for using local apples and pears to make crisp, dry ciders.
For beer fans, Right Brain Brewery and Rare Bird Brewpub are must-visits. Right Brain offers inventive flavors like Thai peanut beer and blueberry pie ale, while Rare Bird combines small-batch brews with gastropub eats.
If you prefer something sweet and hard, check out Northern Natural Cider House. They make organic ciders using Michigan apples, and their tasting room is full of warm, rustic charm.
Most spots also offer outdoor seating, fire pits, or live music in the fall. Whether it’s Friday night or Sunday afternoon, there’s always a brew waiting with your name on it.
📍Left Foot Charley Map
🌐 Explore Traverse City Ale Trail
11. Go on a Haunted Tour – Spooky Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in October
As the leaves fall and Halloween creeps in, Traverse City gets a spooky twist. Fall is ghost season—and if you’re into paranormal stories, you’re in for a treat. One of the best things to do in Traverse City Michigan in the fall is to join a haunted walking tour.
Check out the Haunted Traverse Ghost Tour. These guides walk you through downtown while telling eerie tales about haunted hotels, strange disappearances, and ghost sightings. It’s not just fun—it’s packed with real local history that might just raise the hairs on your neck.
Even more chilling? The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Once a state hospital, it’s now repurposed into shops and restaurants—but still rumored to be haunted. They offer Twilight Tours, where you can explore the old tunnels and learn about the site’s mysterious past.
So whether you believe in ghosts or not, it’s a spooky-good time—especially on a crisp fall night.
📍Haunted Traverse Ghost Tour Location
🌐 Learn more: Haunted Traverse Tours
12. Ride the TART Trail – Scenic Fall Things to Do in Traverse City MI Outdoors
For those who love the outdoors but want something more laid back than hiking, biking the TART Trail is perfect. The Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation Trail (TART) stretches over 10 miles through the city, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and even the waterfront.
Fall is an ideal time to ride it. You’ll coast past bright foliage, calm lakes, and scenic bridges. The trail is paved, mostly flat, and great for all skill levels. Want a shorter ride? Try the Boardman Lake Trail, which is part of the TART system and loops around a peaceful lake.
There are plenty of bike rental shops downtown, including Brick Wheels and McLain Cycle & Fitness. Bring a snack or stop by a café along the way—it’s a casual adventure that’s both fun and relaxing.
And hey, if you’re wondering about things to do in Traverse City this weekend, a morning ride followed by brunch sounds like the ultimate plan.
📍TART Trailhead on Google Maps
🌐 Plan your ride: TART Trails Official Site
13. Explore the Village Commons – Historic Fall Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan
This historic site is one of Traverse City’s most unique places to visit. Formerly the Northern Michigan Asylum, the Village at Grand Traverse Commons has been reborn into a lively hub of eateries, shops, galleries, and walking trails.
The old brick buildings and tree-lined streets make it especially charming in the fall. Take a self-guided tour or book one of their historic walking tours, where you’ll learn about its past and even explore underground tunnels.
Browse handmade goods at Cuppa Joe, grab a bite at Trattoria Stella, or shop for artisan gifts. Art lovers will enjoy Mercato, the lower-level market with galleries and rotating exhibits. It’s a perfect blend of spooky history and modern charm.
If you’re planning a fall trip in December, the commons are beautifully lit with holiday décor and special events. It’s a can’t-miss stop on your Traverse City adventure.
📍Grand Traverse Commons Location
🌐 More info: The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
14. Watch a Sunset Over the Bay – Peaceful Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in Autumn
There’s something magical about sunsets in Traverse City, especially in the fall. The sun sets earlier, casting golden light across the water and painting the sky in deep pinks and oranges. And thanks to the cooler air, the views are often crystal clear.
Some of the best sunset spots include Clinch Park Beach, just off downtown, and Bryant Park, which is a bit quieter. For a truly breathtaking experience, drive up to Old Mission Lighthouse. The view from the tip of the peninsula is unforgettable—especially with fall colors all around.
Want to add a little romance? Bring a blanket, hot cider, and someone special. It’s the kind of peaceful moment you’ll remember long after the trip ends.
Many locals say fall sunsets are better than summer ones. Less haze, fewer bugs, and way more color. Just be sure to arrive about 30 minutes before the official sunset time for the full show.
📍Old Mission Lighthouse Map
🌐 Check sunset times: Time and Date – Traverse City
15. Visit Fall Farmers Markets – Local Weekend Things to Do in Traverse City MI
Fall harvest season in Michigan is a treat, and there’s no better place to celebrate it than the Traverse City Farmers Market. Held on Saturdays, it features over 100 vendors offering everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts and fall décor.
Pumpkins, squash, apples, cider, honey—you name it. It’s all fresh, local, and delicious. This is where you’ll find the flavors of fall. Plus, there’s often live music, food trucks, and local coffee stands.
Want something more laid back? Visit the Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market, open on Saturdays through late October. It’s smaller but still full of charm and great finds.
These markets are perfect for picking up local gifts, snacks for a hike, or ingredients for your cabin dinner. And they’re within walking distance of downtown, making them an easy add to any fall weekend itinerary.
📍Sara Hardy Farmers Market Location
🌐 More info: Traverse City Farmers Market
16. Taste Fall Flavors – Cozy Foodie Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall
Let’s talk about food—because fall in Traverse City is delicious. Whether it’s warm apple pie, rich butternut squash soup, or a piping-hot cup of mulled cider, the city’s cafés and restaurants serve up serious seasonal comfort.
Start your food journey at The Towne Plaza, where their fall brunch includes house-made bacon, sweet potato hash, and maple-drizzled pancakes. Next, stop by Grand Traverse Pie Company for their famous apple crumb or pumpkin pie. Trust us—it’s life-changing.
Craving coffee? Head to BLK MRKT or Mundos Roasting & Co., where you’ll find spiced lattes and locally roasted blends. For sweet treats, Moomers Ice Cream even rolls out fall flavors like cinnamon, caramel apple, and pumpkin.
Fall flavors are everywhere here. Whether you’re fueling up after a hike or just treating yourself, Traverse City brings the heat when it comes to seasonal eats. And if you’re visiting in December, don’t miss holiday treats like peppermint bark and hot cocoa flights.
📍Grand Traverse Pie Company Location
🌐 More eats: Traverse City Food Scene
17.Check Out Fall Art Walks and Galleries
Art lovers, rejoice! Traverse City is a creative hub, and fall is one of the best times to explore its artsy side. Cooler temps make walking between galleries comfortable, and seasonal art shows are in full swing.
Hit up the Traverse City Art Walk, a self-guided tour through downtown galleries like Michigan Artists Gallery, Higher Art Gallery, and Crooked Tree Arts Center. Many host artist meet-and-greets and show off fall-themed pieces, from colorful landscapes to ceramic pumpkins.
For something interactive, visit Handz On Art—a walk-in pottery studio where you can paint your own piece. It’s great for families, couples, or anyone who wants to create a personal souvenir.
The art scene is big in Traverse City, but it feels personal. Local artists thrive here, and every gallery has its own unique vibe. Visiting in December? Holiday art markets pop up, offering one-of-a-kind gifts.
📍Crooked Tree Arts Center Map
🌐 Explore Traverse City Arts
18. Celebrate December with Holiday Events
As fall winds down, Traverse City transforms into a winter wonderland. If you’re searching for things to do in Traverse City Michigan in December, you’re in for a holiday treat.
One highlight is the Downtown Light Parade and Tree Lighting, which kicks off the season with music, lights, and a visit from Santa. The city sparkles with holiday decor, and local shops extend their hours for festive late-night shopping.
Don’t miss the Traverse City Santa Train Ride, which is magical for kids and adults alike. Or lace up your skates at Clinch Park Ice Rink, right along the bay.
Plus, December is prime time for holiday markets. Shop handcrafted gifts, taste hot cocoa, and support local makers. There’s nothing cozier than sipping mulled wine while snow gently falls.
📍Clinch Park Ice Rink
🌐 See holiday events: Traverse City Events Calendar
19. Plan Your Weekend with Local Events
Wondering about things to do in Traverse City this weekend? You’re in luck. The town buzzes with activity every fall weekend—from craft fairs and cider tastings to yoga in the vineyard.
Stay up to date by checking the Traverse City Events Calendar or following the Downtown TC Facebook page. Some popular recurring events include:
-
Saturday morning Farmers Markets
-
Live music at breweries and wineries
-
Fall yoga sessions in the park
-
Seasonal menus and tastings at local restaurants
-
Special art gallery openings and walking tours
Many events are free, and most are family-friendly. It’s easy to build a full fall weekend around just a few activities. Bonus: locals are super friendly and happy to share tips or recommendations.
📍Downtown Traverse City Map
🌐 Plan ahead: Traverse City Tourism
20. Map of Traverse City Attractions
Need help planning your route? Here’s a helpful Traverse City Google Map with top spots from this list pinned for you:
📍 Traverse City Fall Attractions Map
From scenic drives to pumpkin patches, everything is just a short trip away. Use it to build your perfect fall itinerary and explore with ease.
Conclusion
Fall in Traverse City is something special. The colors are brighter, the air is crisper, and the vibes are unbeatable. From wine tasting on golden hills to spooky ghost tours, you’ll never run out of things to do in Traverse City Michigan in the fall. Whether you’re visiting this weekend or planning ahead for December, there’s always something fresh, cozy, and memorable happening.
So pack a sweater, bring your camera, and get ready to fall in love with this Northern Michigan gem.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to see fall colors in Traverse City?
Peak color typically happens from late September to mid-October. Early October is your safest bet.
2. Are Traverse City wineries open in the fall?
Yes! Most wineries stay open year-round, and fall is a popular time thanks to the harvest season.
3. What’s the weather like in Traverse City in the fall?
Expect temps in the 50s–60s°F in early fall, cooling to 30s–40s°F by late November. Layers are key!
4. Is Traverse City busy in the fall?
It’s less crowded than summer, but weekends—especially in October—can still get busy. Book ahead.
5. What should I wear for fall in Traverse City?
Layers, waterproof boots, and a cozy jacket. Add a scarf and gloves for chilly nights or early snow.
