Hotels in Traverse City

Traverse City: Where Serene Lakes Embrace Coastal Charm

Nestled along the shores of shimmering Lake Michigan, Traverse City is a captivating blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Known for its stunning beaches and lush landscapes, this charming city boasts a quaint downtown filled with boutique shops, artisanal eateries, and local wineries. Visitors can explore the picturesque Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or indulge in cherry-picking during the summer months. With its scenic waterfront, thriving arts scene, and opportunities for outdoor adventures, Traverse City invites both romantics and nature lovers to immerse themselves in its tranquil yet exhilarating charm.

Things to do in Traverse City

Traverse City boasts stunning lakeside beaches, lush forests, and scenic rolling hills, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can indulge in delightful wine tours, embark on invigorating hikes, or enjoy leisurely boat rides. With vibrant festivals, bike rentals, and charming shops, this destination offers a delightful mix of relaxation and adventure.

• Clam RiverOpens in a new window – Enjoy a refreshing escape at Clam River, where you can take a leisurely kayak ride or simply relax by the water's edge. The gentle flow of the river invites you to soak in the natural surroundings, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon.
• Haserot BeachOpens in a new window – Dive into the clear waters of Haserot Beach, a perfect destination for sunbathing and swimming. With soft sand underfoot and stunning views of the lake, it's the ideal place to unwind and enjoy a picnic with family and friends.
• Clinch ParkOpens in a new window – Take a stroll through Clinch Park, where you can explore lush green spaces and enjoy recreational activities. The park features playgrounds and picnic areas, making it a great spot for families to enjoy a day outdoors, all while being close to the beautiful waterfront.
• Front StreetOpens in a new window – Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Front Street, lined with charming shops, cafés, and restaurants. It’s a great place to grab a coffee or browse local boutiques, all while soaking in the lively spirit of Traverse City.
• Traverse City State ParkOpens in a new window – Venture into Traverse City State Park for a day of outdoor fun. With ample trails for hiking, spots for camping, and access to the scenic shoreline, it’s an excellent location for nature lovers looking to explore the area’s rich biodiversity.

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

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly months to visit Traverse City are January, March, and December when hotel prices are typically lower. For an enriching experience that allows you to discover the area's significant landmarks, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy various attractions related to history and culture, such as local festivals, wine tours, beautiful lakes, craft breweries, boating opportunities, shopping, and even golfing. This itinerary offers great value for money while allowing you to explore the charm of Traverse City.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover great hotel deals in Traverse City, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may uncover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and special last-minute offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications. With the Smart Shopping tool available in the app, you can compare hotel prices and amenities, increasing your chances of finding the best hotel deal. This way, should prices drop or rooms become available, you'll be promptly notified, making it easier to plan a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a hotel in Traverse City. For those seeking distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we may suggest more economical dates to enhance your chances of securing a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Traverse City's excellent public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well linked. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often outstanding value for money. Opting for these alternative locations 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 are usually the wettest months. June to August are the peak travel months in Traverse City, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by no to light rainfall and very cloudy conditions.