Local Breweries, Distilleries Wineries & More
Ahh… Up North in and around Traverse City … rolling hills, breathtaking views, welcoming shops, restaurants for every pallet, and a variety of exhilarating outdoor activities to participate in during all seasons. Regardless the time of year you visit, the Traverse City region has all kinds of memories waiting for you take home.
One of those memories is touring the many tasting rooms for locally produced wine, beer, and spirits that dot the area. Whether you are new to tasting or an old pro, you are sure to find new blends and new people at each tasting venue.
It was only a few decades ago that a couple of fellows decided to put in some grapes. To make wine, they said. Most thought they had lost their minds. (This is cherry country, not wine country!) Well, guess who’s laughing now! It did not take long for dozens to follow suit as growers learned that our climate, altitude, and proximity to Lake Michigan make terrific conditions to grow grapes for wine … and hops for beer … and grains for spirits, all with unique Up North flavors and blends found only here.
middlecoast
231-943-1606
MiddleCoastBrewingCo.com
With a unique blend of handcrafted brews, artisanal spirits, delectable dishes, and aromatic coffee, MiddleCoast has everything you need, under one roof. Feed your senses through 24 taps of beer, seltzers, ciders and meads, a crafty cocktail menu featuring house-made Benevolent Spirits, a coffee bar and a full-service kitchen showcasing fried pickles, burgers, gyros, flatbreads, and the best fries in town, all handmade with love. Most items are also available gluten free! Almost everything at MiddleCoast is crafted in house, from the beers, spirits, coffee, and food to the friendships that come with them. The MiddleCoast patio is one of the sunniest spots in town to relax with a pint and the pergola covered beer garden provides shade to cool down with a cocktail. MiddleCoast opens at 11 am
daily, with Happy Hour from 3pm-6pm Monday through Friday, and all day on Thursday!
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Foo D & Drink
ExpEriENcE the ambience of “up north” dining with sensational seasonal favorites created by our talented culinary chefs. Satisfy every craving with the finest Lake Michigan has to offer....you won’t be disappointed! The area has an abundance of locally owned restaurants along with your favorite “recognized” restaurants. The only problem? Finding the time to try them all!
Treat yourself and relish the scrumptious seasonal favorites with casual dining and beautiful views you won’t soon forget. Make your dining experience the perfect complement to a great day.
... savor the fresh flavors ...
Frida’s mexican Grill
Traverse City 231-421-1001
Authentic Mexican Restaurant offering a large menu with your favorite fresh dishes in a casual dining atmosphere only 10 minutes from downtown Traverse City.
Daily food & drink specials, and the “Best Happy Hour” in TC including $3.99 Margarita’s on the rocks, $5.99 Nachos Diego, $5.99 Wings and a 32 oz Draft Beer for only $5.99.
Watch your favorite sports team while enjoying great food and drinks!
Open 7 days a week with carry out or dine-in indoor and outdoor seating.
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See ad inside front cover
Wine
Deli Grocery
Folgarelli’s Market, founded in 1978 by Fox & Marge Folgarelli is Northern Michigan’s premier delicatessen, wine and specialty food market. Our market is steeped in tradition with the third Folgarelli generation running the store continuing with the quality and uniqueness Fox and Marge created. Today, Folgarelli’s boasts nearly 50 unique and world famous sandwiches all hand made to order, some of which award winning. Don’t see what you like, just ask and one of the Folgarelli crew will be happy to accommodate you. Along with the great selection of sandwiches, Folgarelli’s deli is loaded with a tantalizing array of artisan cheeses and charcuterie from around the world. From imported Italian salamis, prosciuttos, and Reggiano parmesan
to delicious French brie’s we have you covered. Always cut to order and never pre-wrapped, we take great pride in providing what our customers are looking for, incredible flavor and service. After looking through the deli, the store continues on with a huge wine cellar boasting over 2000 labels of hand selected wines. We pride ourselves on our selection and our knowledgeable crew can help you find that perfect bottle. Walking back through the store you will begin to see the shelves lined with unique grocery items that every home chef will enjoy. Folgarelli’s offers catering for both small and large groups. From family gatherings to weddings, we are here for you! Stop in and see what Folgarelli’s has been doing well for over 40 years. We look forward to seeing you at the market soon.
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Little Italy 231-786-0555 Nittolostc.com
Welcome to Nittolo’s Little Italy, an authentic New York-style Italian restaurant in Traverse City. We bring bold flavors and timeless recipes, featuring hand-tossed pizzas, rich pastas, fresh seafood, and decadent desserts. Whether dining in or taking out, you’ll experience true Italian comfort food with every bite. Join us for a taste of Little Italy right here in Michigan. Visit nittolostc. com or call (231) 786-0555. downtown map grid D-5
open Monday-Saturday serving lunch & dinner
happy hour daily
3:30-6:30 pm outdoor deck
5074 U.S. Highway 31 N Traverse City (231) 938-1610
Bay View Inn Bar & Grill (231) 938-1610 franksbayviewinn.com
Since 1966, The BayView Inn has been serving lunch and dinner, with happy hour daily from 3:30pm-6:30pm. During the summer months, come and enjoy our full service outdoor deck. The Bay View Inn offers a great meal in a friendly atmosphere. You won’t be a disappointed. Located directly across from Grand Traverse East Bay, just before Acme, Michigan. MC/Visa/ Discover/AMEX area map grid E-5
Taco’s & Tequila
123 West Front Street, Downtown Traverse City (231) 642-5566
Authentic Mexican restaurant offering a bold and flavorful menu with your favorite fresh dishes in a vibrant and modern atmosphere located in the heart of downtown Traverse City.
Daily food & drink specials featuring the BEST AUTHENTIC MEXICAN VIBES IN TC include margaritas starting at $1.99, signature tacos, and a wide selection of premium tequila and handcrafted cocktails.
Enjoy great food, refreshing drinks, and the perfect place to relax with friends or watch your favorite sports games.
Opening year-round, 7 days a week, with carry-out and dine-in options, including indoor and outdoor seating.
HOURS: MON-THU 11AM–10PM, FRI-SAT 11AM–10:30PM, SUN 11AM–9PM Downtown map D-6 See ad back cover
Chum’s Corners Hungryhowies.com
Hungry Howie’s Pizza & Subs is a pizza chain known for its signature flavored crusts, offering a variety of bold and savory options like garlic herb, butter cheese, and cajun. Alongside customizable pizzas, the menu features hot subs, wings, salads, and desserts. With a focus on flavor and value, Hungry Howie’s delivers satisfying meals perfect for family dinners, game nights, or quick takeout cravings after a long day at the beach. With two locations now serving the Traverse City area!
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Antiques, Art s tudios & G A lleries
Wilson Antiques
231-946-4177 Downtown Traverse City
231-922-9285 East Bay wilsonantiquemall.com
Timeless treasures await at northern Michigan’s favorite place to shop!
Antiques, collectables, gifts, vintage furniture and décor, jewelry, sporting goods and much much more.
Friendly dealers help you find the perfect piece you’ve been looking for (and at an affordable price!), or just come in and browse to your heart’s content. While at the downtown store, visit the experts at Bay West Precious Metals Exchange who buy and sell gold, silver, coins, jewelry, bullion and more.
Wilson Antiques stores are a MUST SEE destination! Free parking at both locations.
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s hopping
World class shopping destinations await you throughout the area. From outlets and malls to a stroll along Front Street in downtown Traverse City, the venues of the area have become a must-see for visitors. A host of unique restaurants, novelty stores, exclusive boutiques, eclectic galleries and more will make your visit one to remember.
Area shopping locations offer charming village atmospheres with plentiful choices from outdoor attire to designer products with convenient parking and friendly service.
Fusion Fine Art
Framing and Gallery
231-946-7150
FusionFineArtFraming.com
New to Traverse City, Fusion Fine Art Framing and Gallery. Featuring a wide variety of locally produced fine art painting and photography. They also have the widest variety of frame samples available in Traverse City for all of your custom framing needs with a knowledgeable staff to help you find the look and feel your art deserves. Located above The Camera Shop and also a sister store of The Camera Shop they make it possible for one stop shopping. Whether it is photo restoration, large fine art prints or a photo collage, you can start at The Camera Shop and the take it upstairs to have it all done on site with prices to fit any budget.
The Decor is more that of an upscale spa with views of the bay and great bird’s eye views of Front Street. They offer you complementary beverage service while designing, from the sparkling water or a glass of wine to a Kettle One Martini. Fusion Fine Art Framing and Gallery is truly an experience unlike any you will have had before.
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The Camera Shop
231-946-7150
www.camerashoptc.com
The Camera Shop is your digital and film camera headquarters! Located in beautiful downtown Traverse City, we have been helping people with photography since 1939. We service all regions of Northern Michigan. Stocking nearly every camera battery charger, cell phone charging chords as well as cell phone lenses, tripods and selfie sticks. We carry a full line of Nikon, Canon, Fuji, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus cameras and lenses including Sigma, Ziess, Tamarac, Promaster, Vanguard, ManFrotto, Rode mics, glide cam, etc. Featuring a full size waterfall Macro shooting station to test real life camera and lens effects and quality. Specializing in digital cameras, repair, video transferring, digital printing and film photo restoration & preservation and full custom printing. New this year a full custom Frame Shop and local photography gallery. Come and see why The Camera Shop is northern Michigan’s Digital Destination. downtown map grid D-8
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Doug Murdick’s Fudge
Traverse City & Acme 1-800-238-3432
MurdicksFudge.com
SEE IT MADE! Watch our candy craftsman seven days a week. July and August open 7 days a week and evenings. Cooked in a copper kettle to exact temperatures, our fudge is poured out on beautiful marble tables and cooled. It is then worked with Paul Bunyan size tools, loaved and sliced….. Served fresh from the kettle to you. Originated in 1964 in Traverse City. Owned and operated by the Murdick family. We’re not a franchise or connected with other fudge stores anywhere.
Mail order service is our specialty, and fudge is the perfect gift-easy to send anytime!
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Benjamin Twiggs
Traverse City
231-947-0208
BenjaminTwiggs.com
THE FLAVOR OF NORTHERN MICHIGAN IN EVERY SPOONFUL.
Our Northern Michigan climate is ideal for growing cherries. Cool breezes off the bay temper summer’s heat. In winter, the warmer water protects trees from winter’s grasp. At Benjamin Twiggs, we select only the very best and freshest of the local bounty to make our jams, jellies, and preserves. The love and care we put into every jar is easy to see… and taste.
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Sunglass Shoppe
231.946.4730
www.Sunglass-Shoppe.com
See the infinite colors of beautiful Northern Michigan with sunglasses from the Sunglass Shoppe, Unique Optics. We have the largest selection of polarized sunglasses in the North that includes Maui Jim, Zeal, Ray Ban, Oakley, Crewe, Gucci, Dita and Persol. The Sunglass Shoppe, Unique Optics is an independent family business that also offers unique and independent sun and optical collections from around the world to allow you to express your individual sense of style. Not only do we have unique eyewear, but we also take pride in offering the very best and most technologically advanced lenses in the industry for your prescriptions in our Traverse City and Petoskey locations. Downtown map grid D-8
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Owned by Bret and Sonja Richards, Harbor View produces over 50 all-natural products made right here in Traverse City from our own lavender. Beautiful, Handmade, One-of-a-Kind Lavender and Cherry Products along with unique gifts. Visit any of our locations: Old Mission Peninsula (the lavender farm, 17770 Center Rd), Downtown Traverse City (121 E Front St. inside Front Row Center), and Glen Arbor (6445 Western Ave.).
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One of the area’s newest lavender farms, features over 50 natural, handmade lavender products for your body, home, and culinary use. Also features delicious cherry products by The Cherry Stop. Mention this ad and get 10% off your purchase of $50 or more! Also visit us online at sleepingbearlavender.com or call for more info: 231-383-5809.
Grand Traverse Area Map
The LeeL anau PeninsuL a lies halfway between the North Pole and the Equator along the Earth’s 45th Parallel. The 45th Parallel is also home to other renowned wine producing climates such as Alsace, Bordeaux and Burgundy.
Lake Michigan, the fifth largest lake in the world, surrounds the Leelanau Peninsula contributing to its unique climate which has given rise to a wine industry
that has been recognized for its quality and variety nationally and internationally.
While exploring Leelanau Peninsula, you will not only discover it’s many wineries that find their home here, but also the natural beauty of its landscape, vineyards, sand dunes, and many lakes. Enjoy touring and tasting at magnificent wineries located on the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula.
outdoor r ecreation & e ntertainment
Riverside Canoe Trips
231-325-5622
CanoeMichigan.com
Escape to the water and let the river guide your day with Riverside Canoe Trips. Located on M22 along the Lower Platte River inside the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Riverside is your best choice for canoeing, kayaking, SUPing, rafting and tubing in beautiful Northern Michigan.
Riverside Canoe Trips offers a Lower Platte River and Upper Platte River triptwo distinctly different experiences. The Lower Platte River is the most popular trip. Float along the shallow river that winds its way to the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan with views of Sleeping Bear Dunes. It’s a perfect paddle for beginners and families. The Upper Platte River is fast and exciting. This stretch is quick and filled with twists and turns that will flip nearly 50% of canoes. The clean spring-fed water means river temperatures rarely exceed 65 degrees. It’s an ideal 3-4 hour adventure for a hot day.
A visit to Riverside isn’t complete without exploring the store. For over 50 years, Riverside has outfitted campers, paddlers, and fishermen preparing for the day. Grab some ice cream or marine gas, or stop by for one of the nightly campfires. Whatever it be, the gift shop is a must-stop for Benzie county visitors.
Riverside Canoe Trips is open seasonally from May 1 through midOctober. Located on M22 along the Lower Platte River – where you’ll find clear water, sandy beaches, and a new adventure at each bend. Make the most of your trip to Sleeping Bear with a visit to Riverside.
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www.thenorthernangler.com
The Northern Angler Fly Shop & Guide Service
231-933-4730
www.thenorthernangler.com
The Northern Angler is located in downtown Traverse City, Michigan which was named by Field and Stream in 2008 as the 3rd best fishing town in America and in 2005 was on Fly Rod and Reel Magazines list of the top 12 retirement towns for fly fishermen in the country. Just over an hour’s drive from the shop could find you on one of the nearly dozen blue ribbon trout streams including the AuSable, Manistee, Boardman-Ottaway and Betsie rivers. We are minutes from some world class fishing on Grand Traverse Bay and countless inland lakes. Traverse City is a flyfisher’s paradise.
We carry all of the gear that any flyfisher might need from beginning angler to the most advanced angler. The Northern Angler stocks fly rods from Sage, RL Winston, Redington, Lamson and Echo. Gear from Skwala, Simms, Fishpond and more. We carry an extensive selection of flies for every species: trout, warmwater, saltwater, you name it, if it swims, we have a fly for it. Our staff can also teach you How to Fly Fish, so book an instructional guide trip today!!
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Download a digital copy of this magazine at:
www.lifeupnorthmi.com
Day Trips & Tours
Long gone are the days when the wineries of Northern Michigan were a secret well kept by locals and long time visitors to the Traverse City area. The numbers of people visiting the quaint tasting rooms nestled in amongst the rolling hills and vineyards of the Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas have certainly grown. So has the wine industry as exciting new wineries have popped up next to traditional favorites. Gazing out on the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan while sipping an award-winning Michigan wine is still one of the best ways to experience life up north. But the splendor doesn’t end there. Whether you are visiting with the whole family, enjoying a romantic weekend or just looking to get some serious beach time with friends, there are plenty more secrets just waiting to be discovered.
One of the best ways to get a feel for the area is by taking a tour. With high gas prices, leave your car in the lot and let someone else do the driving while you enjoy amazing view of historic villages, mountainous dunes, green forests, white sand beaches and turquoise waters. With tours of all shapes and sizes showcasing the area’s history and natural beauty, you’ll have a blast as experts fill you in on the lay of the land. Tour picturesque lighthouses, explore quiet, cobbled streets lined with historic homes or hit bustling downtown Traverse City for shopping, cafes, brew pubs and restaurants. Looking for something more adventurous? Head out to Crystal Mountain and strap into Michigan’s longest zipline after a morning of single-track mountain biking. Hop on board the Tall Ship Manitou and hoist the sails as the historic ship eases out into Grand Traverse Bay for an afternoon cruise. With adventure around every corner let By The Bay Transportation be your guide to the Grand Traverse Region.
mission Point Lighthouse
Mission Point Lighthouse is open for visitors to tour the museum and do the tower climb for a small fee. We also have a nice gift shop that helps support the lighthouse. This lighthouse is volunteer run so hours may vary but we try to be open Wednesday - Monday, 10-5. Visitors enjoy the beach and hiking trails in our park. This lighthouse has a unique and popular keeper program that allows volunteers to run the gift shop and stay in the lighthouse. The keeper quarters are very comfortable with WIFI, cable TV, central air conditioning and more! See the website for more information: www.missionpointlighthouse.com
Map Legend
Easiest
More Difficult
Most Difficult
Trailhead
! Intersection Markers
VASA Area Trails
VASA 3K Meadows Loop
VASA 5K Headwaters
VASA 10K
VASA 25K
Special K Connector, VASA, Madeline's Trail
VASA - Winter Sports Loop,
VASA Marked Singletrack, Timber Ridge Access, TART Trail, Roads
! ! Power Lines
State of Michigan Lands
Benak Trl
West Bay
Clinch Park – Traverse City
The area’s most popular beach with 1,500 feet of sand along Grand Traverse Bay. The beach is walking distance to downtown shopping, restaurants and other attractions.
Picnic tables, life guards (in season), restrooms and ample parking are available. Great spot!
Bryant Park – Traverse City
raverse City East Bay Park - Traverse City
raverse City beach along he beach downtown and other , life rooms available.
Old Mission Peninsula and
This beach s at the base of Old Mission Peninsula and has many amenities such as large playground, bathrooms and grills for that afternoon picnic!
East Bay
East Bay Park – Traverse City
Located on the city’s eastern side in a residential area with lots of shade.
Shallow water, bathrooms, playground and picnic areas ... this beach offers everything you will need!
Haserot Beach - Old Mission
Haserot Beach – Old Mission
Located on the city’s eastern side in a residential area with lots of shade. Shallow water, bathrooms, playground and picnic areas.... this beach offers everything you will need Located at the end of Old Mission Peninsula, you will find yourself mingling with the local and enjoying east bay. Bathrooms playground, picnic tables and swim area. 20 miles from Traverse City and worth the T of
Located at the end of Old Mission Peninsula, you will find yourself mingling with the locals and enjoying East Bay. Bathrooms, playground, picnic tables and swim area. 20 miles from Traverse City and worth the Trip!
Swimming • Camping
• Playgrounds • Lighthouses
Beaches • Fishing • Picnics
Hiking • Family Fun!
Interlochen State Park
Situated between Duck and Green Lakes, about 15 miles from Traverse City. Offering 490 camp sites and adjacent to the National Music Camp that performs concerts throughout the
Leelanau State Park
This park, 25 miles from Traverse City featuring the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum, rustic campground, picnic area and over 8 miles of hiking trails. Petoskey stones can always be found along the shoreline!
Interlochen State Park
Traverse City State Park
This park and beach has so much to offer! 343 camp sites with ample parking, brand new play ground area, bathrooms and picnic area. You can stroll along the beach for a vigorous walk or just relax and take in the great views of Grand Traverse East Bay.
Situated between Duck Lakes, about 15 miles f city. Offering 490 adjacent to the Na Camp that performs throughout the season
Leelanau State Park
Elk Rapids Park
This park, 25 miles City featuring the Lighthouse Museum ground, picnic area miles of hiking trails stones can alway along the shoreline
15 minutes north of Traverse City is the City of Elk Rapids overlooking East Grand Traverse Bay. Swim area, bathrooms, picnic tables and playground makes this a special place.
Old Mission Lighthouse Beach
Located at the very end of Old Mission Peninsula, this was voted Traverse City’s favorite beach!
Vacation Homes & Rentals
The Grand Traverse reGion with all of it’s beauty offers vacationers an opportunity to own or rent a slice of paradise. No longer a secret, the area is becoming a sought after location, offering shopping, dining, golf, fishing, hunting, biking and festivals galore for all to enjoy!
• Forbes Magazine (April 2016) -Top 25 Places to Retire in 2016
• Midwest Living (March 2016) - Midwest Living Greatest Town
• USA Today (September 2015) - Best Scenic Autumn Drive
• CNN Money (September 2015) - America’s Best Beer Towns
• Livability.com (July 2014) - Top 10 Small Town, (June 2014) America’s Top 10 Foodie Towns
Lakes of the North 231-585-6800
lakesofthenorth.com/golf
Open to the public, a short 45 minute drive from the Grand Traverse area is this 18 hole, par 72, 7,000 yard course is nestled in the woods outside of Mancelona offering a great golf experience. We offer a well stocked golf shop and driving range along with the newly remodeled Settings Restaurant and Pro Tavern awaiting your dining needs. MC/Visa/Discover/AMEX. n.kole@lakesofthenorth.com
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Twin Birch Golf Course 231-258-9691
twinbirchgolf.com
18 Holes; 6,133 yards. Come visit our New Clubhouse, Pro Shop and Restaurant. Only 25 minutes from Traverse City located one mile east of Kalkaska on County Road 612. A challenging golf course at affordable rates!
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800-678-0122
www.A-ga-ming.com
72 Holes of Beautiful Golf Alongside Stunning Torch Lake and Lake Michigan. for Groups, Membership & Daily Fee Play, Dreamlike Weddings, Legendary Family Reunions and Celebrations. At A-Ga-Ming and now Charlevoix Golf & Fitness! The Charlevoix Golf Course is a four-star Jerry Matthews design that offers golfers an opportunity to play a public course with beautifully manicured bent grass fairways, large undulating putting surfaces and a landscape conducive to an upscale golfing environment. See why Golf Digest gave the Torch course four stars and why Golf Digest named Sundance the third best new golf course in the country for 2006 and 4 1/2 stars in 2009!! Voted 2023 golf course of the year by the MGCOA……..
Check out why Golfing in Michigan Magazine said this, “The most spectacular views in the state!” Antrim Dells is 10 miles north of A-Ga-Ming, straight north on US-31. The course overlooks Lake Michigan, offering
gorgeous vistas while you make your way around this fun yet challenging course, a very manageable course for all skill levels. Enjoy the quiet of Antrim Dells, a 6,670 yard championship course that’s a perennial favorite of local golfers. Truly a hidden gem and welcome addition to the A-Ga-Ming Resort lineup of golf opportunities. No other “Up North” resort has golf courses better than what you’ll find at A-Ga-Ming Resort. Take your pick. Torch is a traditional woodlands course cut through mature hardwood, cedar swamps, elevation changes and water play on eight holes. Sundance is a contemporary links style course with 118 bunkers, continued wide fairways and big greens.
Message from the Owners: “We’re known for being a medium priced yet world-class quality of golf. We’re laid back here and it’s okay if you don’t tuck your shirt in! We’re fortunate to have some of the best lake views in the state. All three courses are meticulously manicured and our crew is as good as they come and all three courses deliver on our promise of tremendous quality. area map grid F-3
