Top 20 Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall

6. Hike Through Autumn Colors – Must-Do Outdoor Things in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall

If you ask me, fall hiking around Traverse City is one of the best ways to soak in the season. The colors are next level—like the trees are trying to outdo each other with reds, oranges, and yellows. And the best part? You don’t have to be some hardcore hiker to enjoy it.

One of the easier spots to start with is the Boardman Lake Trail. It loops around a quiet little lake just a few minutes from downtown. The trail’s about 4 miles, mostly flat, and honestly just a really nice walk—especially when the leaves start to fall and crunch under your feet.

If you’re up for something more rugged, check out the Brown Bridge Quiet Area. This one’s got hills, forest, river views—and more than 6 miles of trails to wander. It feels peaceful and remote, but not in a “hope I don’t get lost” kind of way.

Oh, and quick tip: dress in layers. The weather can shift fast, especially with that crisp fall breeze. Also, don’t leave the camera at home—there are moments you’ll want to capture, trust me.

Traveling with kids or just want a shorter, scenic option? Hickory Hills is a solid pick. The trails are short and manageable, and you get these awesome elevated views of the city, all surrounded by trees doing their autumn thing.

📍Brown Bridge Quiet Area Map
🌐 Find more hikes on Traverse City Trails

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7. Visit Pumpkin Patches – Classic Fall Things to Do in Traverse City This Weekend

Let’s be real—it’s not fall without pumpkins. And around Traverse City, you’ll find more than a few places that turn picking one into a full-blown autumn adventure.

Gallagher’s Farm Market is one of those spots people keep coming back to. It’s got everything: hayrides, a little petting zoo, cider donuts that should probably be illegal, and rows of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re there with kids, a partner, or just tagging along for the snacks, you’ll find something to love—and yeah, it’s totally Instagram-worthy without even trying.

Another good one? Jacob’s Farm. They’ve got a giant corn maze (good luck getting out), plenty of pumpkins, and for the grown-ups—hard cider on tap. When the sun goes down, they light bonfires and bring out live music. It’s one of those fall nights that just feels… right.

And the cool part? You don’t have to drive far. These farms are close to town, so it’s super easy to go from picking out pumpkins to sipping wine without missing a beat. Just check ahead—most of them have special weekend events worth catching.

📍Gallagher’s Farm Market on Google Maps
🌐 Visit Jacob’s Farm TC

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Go Apple Picking – A Fun Fall Thing to Do in Traverse City MI with Family

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You ever just want a chill fall afternoon that doesn’t involve crowds or rushing around? Go pick some apples. Seriously.

There are orchards all over the Traverse City area, and come autumn, they’re packed with fruit. It’s quiet, the air’s crisp, and honestly, there’s something really satisfying about grabbing apples right off the tree.

One place I liked was King Orchards—it’s about 30 minutes north of town. Nothing fancy, just rows of trees, great views, and a little farm stand with pies, cider, and a bunch of homemade stuff. I ended up leaving with way more than I planned (no regrets).

If you don’t feel like driving that far, Hilltop Orchards is closer and just as cozy. They’ve got U-pick apples, cider slushies that’ll wake you up, and fresh donuts that barely last five minutes after buying them.

You can usually snack on an apple or two while you pick—kind of a bonus. Whether you’re going solo, with kids, or on a date, it’s one of those simple things that just makes a fall day better.

📍King Orchards Google Maps

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9. Stay in a Lakeside Cabin – Relaxing Things to Do in Traverse City in the Fall

You ever just want a chill fall afternoon that doesn’t involve crowds or rushing around? Go pick some apples. Seriously.

There are orchards all over the Traverse City area, and come autumn, they’re packed with fruit. It’s quiet, the air’s crisp, and honestly, there’s something really satisfying about grabbing apples right off the tree.

One place I liked was King Orchards—it’s about 30 minutes north of town. Nothing fancy, just rows of trees, great views, and a little farm stand with pies, cider, and a bunch of homemade stuff. I ended up leaving with way more than I planned (no regrets).

If you don’t feel like driving that far, Hilltop Orchards is closer and just as cozy. They’ve got U-pick apples, cider slushies that’ll wake you up, and fresh donuts that barely last five minutes after buying them.

You can usually snack on an apple or two while you pick—kind of a bonus. Whether you’re going solo, with kids, or on a date, it’s one of those simple things that just makes a fall day better.

🌐 Find stays on Visit Up North Vacation Rentals

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10. Sip Fall Brews and Ciders – Top Tasting Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall

Yeah, Traverse City is big on wine, but if you’re more into craft beer or a good cider, you’re still in the right place. Especially in the fall—cider season is in full swing, and the local spots get creative with it.

A cool place to start? Left Foot Charley. It’s tucked inside the old State Hospital grounds (now called The Village), and it’s part winery, part cidery. The ciders are crisp, dry, and made from local apples and pears. You’ll probably end up trying more than one.

Into beer? Check out Right Brain Brewery. It’s got that artsy, experimental vibe—think Thai peanut ale or something that somehow tastes like pie but still works. Rare Bird Brewpub is another good one. They’ve got their own brews on tap plus a solid food menu, so you can make a whole evening of it.

If you like your drinks on the sweeter side, Northern Natural Cider House might be your jam. They make organic cider with Michigan-grown apples, and the place has this cozy, cabin-like feel that’s perfect once the temps start to drop.

Most of these spots have fire pits outside or live music on weekends. So whether it’s a slow Sunday or you’re starting your night out, you’ll find something on tap that fits the mood.

📍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

There’s something about Traverse City in October that just hits differently. Maybe it’s the sound of leaves crunching underfoot or the way the chill creeps into the air without warning. Whatever it is, fall here feels quieter. A bit more mysterious. Some folks call it ghost season—and honestly, I kind of get why.

I wasn’t out looking for haunted places. All I really wanted was some cider and a relaxing weekend. But one night, kind of on a whim, I joined this ghost tour that winds through downtown. Just a handful of us tagging along behind a local guide, weaving through backstreets and pausing near old buildings. It wasn’t one of those over-the-top, theatrical tours either. It felt real—like the kind of stories people grow up hearing and half-believe.

The tour—Haunted Traverse Ghost Tours—was this mix of eerie tales and actual history. We stopped outside old hotels and heard about strange disappearances, guests who never checked out. Some of the stories made us laugh awkwardly. Others made me glance over my shoulder a little more than usual.

But the place I can’t get out of my head? The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Once a psychiatric hospital back in the 1800s, it’s now this artsy hub with restaurants and shops. And yet, something about it still feels… heavy. Not scary exactly, just like there are memories buried in the walls. They offer Twilight Tours, where you explore the old underground tunnels. I went expecting something silly, but it actually gave me chills—in the best way.

So if you’re planning a trip to Traverse City in the fall, do the ghost stuff. Even if you’re a skeptic. It’s less about whether the stories are true and more about the feeling they leave behind. And who knows? That flickering hallway light back at your hotel might seem just a little harder to explain afterward.

📍Haunted Traverse Ghost Tour Location
🌐 Learn more: Haunted Traverse Tours

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12. Ride the TART Trail – Scenic Fall Things to Do in Traverse City MI Outdoors

Let’s say hiking’s not really your speed. No problem—you can still spend time outside without climbing any hills. There’s a bike trail that runs through Traverse City, and it’s an easy one. Locals call it the TART Trail. You’ll pass parks, some lake views, and a few quiet corners of town you wouldn’t notice by car.

Fall is a good time to try it. The leaves start showing off, and there are these little wooden bridges that make you want to slow down and look around for a bit. Some stretches are peaceful enough that you’ll forget you’re near a city.

And if the full trail sounds like too much? You don’t have to commit. Just try the loop around Boardman Lake. It’s smaller, easier, and still gives you a nice dose of autumn color.

No bike? No big deal. You can rent one from a spot in town—McLain Cycle or Brick Wheels are both close. Ride for a little while. If you find a coffee shop or a bench with a view, go ahead and take a break. There’s no rush.

Looking for things to do in Traverse City this weekend that don’t feel like a big production? This is a good place to start.

📍TART Trailhead on Google Maps
🌐 Plan your ride: TART Trails Official Site

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13. Explore the Village Commons – Historic Fall Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan

This spot isn’t your average tourist attraction.

This place has a strange backstory—and I mean that in a good way. It used to be the Northern Michigan Asylum, but now? Locals know it as The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. A little bit eerie, a little bit beautiful, and kind of hard to describe until you’ve been there.

Walking through in the fall feels oddly peaceful. The buildings are all old red brick, and the streets are lined with trees that seem like they’ve been there forever. You can just explore on your own, no plan needed. But if you’re into old stories (or slightly creepy ones), they run walking tours that explain the history—and yeah, they’ll even take you through the tunnels underneath.

It’s not a haunted house kind of thing. Just… really interesting in a quiet, historic kind of way.

You’ll find all kinds of local gems here. Grab coffee from Cuppa Joe, have a slow lunch at Trattoria Stella, or duck into one of the little shops that sell handmade gifts. If you’re into art, check out Mercato downstairs. It’s part marketplace, part gallery, and always changing—kind of like the building itself.

If your fall getaway stretches into December, this place gets even better. Lights go up, holiday events pop in, and suddenly it feels like a festive little village tucked inside a historic campus. Definitely worth a stop.

📍Grand Traverse Commons Location
🌐 More info: The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

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14. Watch a Sunset Over the Bay – Peaceful Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in Autumn

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Something shifts when the air turns colder. Sunsets in Traverse City just feel sharper—like the sky’s trying a little harder. Maybe it’s the way the light reflects off the lake or how the leaves look like they’re glowing for a few minutes. Either way, it’s worth heading out for one.

By this time of year, the sun drops fast. You’ll catch a mix of soft gold and warm pink in the sky—sometimes orange if the clouds are playing nice. Everything around looks clearer too. No glare, no bugs. Just clean light and quiet colors.

For an easy spot, swing by Clinch Park Beach. It’s close to town and right on the water. Want a little more space? Bryant Park is usually less crowded. And if you’re up for a short drive, head out to Old Mission Lighthouse. That view? It stretches across everything. If the trees are still holding onto their color, it’s a good one.

You don’t need to do much. Grab a warm drink, maybe sit on a log or a bench if you find one. Let it get quiet. That might be the moment that sticks with you the most.

📍Old Mission Lighthouse Map
🌐 Check sunset times: Time and Date – Traverse City

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15. Visit Fall Farmers Markets – Local Weekend Things to Do in Traverse City MI

Michigan’s fall harvest always feels like something special—especially around Traverse City. If you’re here on a Saturday, swing by the local Farmers Market. It’s packed with stands selling apples, breads, jams, and fall decorations. You’ll probably end up buying something you didn’t plan to—happens every time.

You’ll see crates of apples, orange pumpkins stacked like mini towers, maybe even tables with baked goods or jars of honey. Most of it comes straight from nearby farms. The people selling it? Many of them grew it. Some weekends there’s a guitarist nearby, or the smell of hot cider drifting over from a stand.

If you’d rather avoid a big crowd, there’s also the Sara Hardy Downtown Market. Still open Saturdays through October. It’s smaller, quieter, but still full of great local finds.

Most times, I leave carrying a bag heavier than expected—some kind of snack, a few things for dinner, and maybe something totally random like beeswax candles. And since it’s right near downtown, you can swing through before lunch or in between other plans without going out of your way.

📍Sara Hardy Farmers Market Location
🌐 More info: Traverse City Farmers Market

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16. Taste Fall Flavors – Cozy Foodie Things to Do in Traverse City Michigan in the Fall

Okay, real talk—fall in Traverse City makes you hungrier than usual. Maybe it’s the chill in the air or just the way everything smells like cinnamon and campfire. Whatever the reason, food hits better when it’s cold out.

Start at The Towne Plaza if you’re into brunch. The menu leans heavy, in the best way—stuff like sweet potato hash, thick bacon they cure in-house, and pancakes that don’t hold back on the syrup. It’s not fancy. Just warm, filling, and exactly what you want after walking around all morning.

For something sweet, swing by Grand Traverse Pie Company. Locals talk a lot about the apple crumb, and they’re not wrong. The pumpkin version’s solid too. Just grab a slice. No need to debate it.

If coffee’s your thing, try BLK MRKT or Mundos Roasting. Both spots keep it simple but seasonal—like a spiced latte that actually tastes like spice, not syrup.

And weirdly, ice cream still works—even when it’s cold out. Moomers puts out caramel apple and cinnamon flavors that feel like fall in a cone. It’s worth it. Just wear a jacket.

Food’s kind of everywhere this time of year. Whether you’re coming off a trail or just poking around downtown, something will pull you in. If you’re around in December, expect peppermint everything. Some places even do hot chocolate tasting flights. Sounds over-the-top, but honestly? Kinda fun.

📍Grand Traverse Pie Company Location

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17.Check Out Fall Art Walks and Galleries

If you’re into art—even just a little—fall’s a great time to check out what Traverse City has going on. The weather makes walking from one spot to the next way easier, and there always seems to be a new show or exhibit popping up this time of year.

Start with the Traverse City Art Walk. It’s self-guided, super relaxed, and takes you through some great downtown galleries. You’ll pass by places like Michigan Artists Gallery, Crooked Tree, and Higher Art Gallery. Some weekends, the artists are there in person—chatting, showing off their fall pieces, and sometimes even doing live demos. You’ll see everything from bold local landscapes to handmade pottery shaped like pumpkins (yep, it’s a thing).

If you’d rather make something yourself, stop at Handz On Art. You can walk in and paint your own piece—no reservation, no pressure. It’s a good time whether you’re with kids, a date, or just want to try something new without signing up for a class.

The vibe? Casual. A little quirky. Very local. Most of the galleries feel like community spaces more than big institutions. If you’re around in December, keep an eye out for the holiday art markets—they show up in unexpected places and usually have some pretty cool gift ideas you won’t find in a regular store.

📍Crooked Tree Arts Center Map

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18. Celebrate December with Holiday Events

When the leaves are mostly gone and the cold really settles in, Traverse City flips into winter mode. Not in a big flashy way—just little things that start popping up all over town.

That first weekend after Thanksgiving? Lights go up. People start crowding downtown for the Light Parade and Tree Lighting, but not in a packed, uncomfortable way. There’s music, folks holding warm drinks, and some guy dressed as Santa waving from a float. It’s the kind of night that makes you stick around longer than you planned.

If you’ve got kids—or remember being one—the Santa Train Ride is kind of a throwback. Not fancy, not long. Just a slow ride, some songs, and enough magic to make it feel like December.

Down by the water, there’s a small rink at Clinch Park. You’ll find a few people gliding around as the sun sets and the lights flick on. No big crowds. Just the sound of skates on ice and maybe someone laughing when they fall.

And yeah—if you’re walking around town, you’ll run into a holiday market sooner or later. They’re tucked into churches, storefronts, side streets. Nothing polished. Just local folks selling things they made or baked or knit. I grabbed a weird little candle last year that smelled like cedar and sugar, and I’ve been trying to find it again ever since.

📍Clinch Park Ice Rink
🌐 See holiday events: Traverse City Events Calendar

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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.

Typical weekend vibes? Picture this:

• Farmers markets in the morning (bring a tote!)

• A guitarist playing outside your favorite brewery

• Yoga in the park with leaves crunching under your mat

• Local restaurants testing new fall menus

• Pop-up art shows in spots you didn’t even notice before

You don’t need to overplan. Just pick one or two things, keep your day loose, and see what you find. And if you’re unsure? Ask a local. Most are more than happy to share their favorite coffee shop, trail, or shortcut to the best cider stand in town.

🌐 Plan ahead: Traverse City Tourism

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Conclusion

Fall in Traverse City just feels right. The trees turn into this wild mix of colors—you catch yourself stopping to stare even when you’re running late. I didn’t even grab my phone at first. I just stood there like, wow.

And the air? It’s got that bite that makes sweaters feel like a reward. Not too cold, just enough to wake you up a little.

You’ll find yourself sipping wine on some quiet hillside, thinking, “How is this real?” Then later you’re trailing behind a guide on a ghost walk, trying not to look too jumpy when a door creaks. It’s the kind of town where even doing nothing feels like something.

So if you’re thinking about it—go. Toss a hoodie in your bag, bring your camera, and take your time. I left with more photos than I meant to and still didn’t feel ready to go home.

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1. When do the fall colors really show up in Traverse City?
From what I’ve seen, early October is your best shot. Late September can be decent, but if you’re chasing those full-on, fiery trees? Yeah, first or second week of October is when things usually hit.

2. Can you still visit wineries in the fall?
Totally. Most places are open all year. And fall? Honestly, it’s kind of perfect. Less crowded, harvest season vibes, and sipping wine with a sweater on? Can’t beat that.

3. What’s the weather like that time of year?
Starts out nice—like, 50s or 60s. But don’t be fooled. By the end of fall, it can dip into the 30s, even 40s. I always bring a few layers. Learned that the hard way one year when I didn’t pack gloves.

4. Is it busy? Or kinda quiet?
Not summer-level packed, but still busy—especially on October weekends. People really love their fall getaways. I’d book stuff early just to be safe.

5. What do I wear?
Whatever keeps you warm and dry. I’m talking layers, boots that don’t hate rain, and something cozy for the nights. If you get cold easy? Toss in a scarf or hat. Fall’s one of those seasons that goes from “this is lovely” to “I can’t feel my fingers” real fast.

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