Looking to get your fall foliage fix? As you make plans for your upcoming fall road trip, don’t overlook Traverse City and the Leelanau Peninsula in Northern Michigan. With its stunning lake views, charming wineries, vibrant restaurant scene, and tons of epic fall colors, Northern Michigan has everything you could want and more!
Fall in Love with Michigan Wineries:
What’s better than sampling exceptional wine straight from the source with stunning fall leaves as your backdrop? (Hint: the answer is absolutely nothing) With close to 50 wineries to choose from, you’ll be sure to find something you love! Explore the full list of wineries HERE.
Treat Yourself (And Your Tastebuds):
From food trucks to fine dining, Traverse City has it all! Eater put together a list of must-try places, which you can find HERE. Scroll down to the itinerary section to see my restaurant recommendations for a long weekend fall road trip.
Get Outside and Breathe The Crisp Fall Air:
From the Leelanau State Park to Sleeping Bear Dunes and all the hiking trails in between, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities. Downtown Traverse City also has many parks to stretch your legs and let your kids or pets burn off some energy.
Unearth Unique Gems:
No fall road trip is complete without discovering hidden treasures (and of course a little shopping). Be sure to set aside some time to walk around Front Street in downtown Traverse City to explore boutiques, art galleries, cozy cafes, and more.
Be Basic at an Apple Orchard:
Is it even fall if you don’t go to an Apple Orchard? Grab yourself a latte (you know which one), put on your favorite fall fit and head on over to one of the many orchards in the Traverse City area. Rennie Orchards and Gallagher’s are two great options!
Beauty Rest
Traverse City is full of charming bed and breakfasts, boutique inns, and cozy cabins. However, if you’re visiting in your home-on-wheels, you should consider reserving a camp spot in the Leelanau State Park. It sits right on the water at the top of the Leelanau Peninsula (hello sunrise AND sunset!).
If you’re looking for a cheaper option, Michigan allows dispersed camping on State Forest land (with a few limitations). You can find all of the details for dispersed camping/boon-docking in Michigan HERE.
My Perfect Weekend Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival Day:
- Grab Lunch Downtown: I’m looking for something lighter but filling to keep me energized for the rest of the day. My top pick is Hexenbelle – a Palestinian-inspired breakfast and lunch spot.
- Stretch Your Legs: After lunch head over to one of the downtown parks to walk along the beach. Clinch Park is super close and one of the larger ones in the downtown area.
- Explore Downtown Traverse City: Take the rest of the afternoon to explore downtown – including all of the fun shops and galleries.
- Winery Stop #1: By now, you probably want a pick-me-up. I suggest heading up the Leelanau Peninsula and visiting Shady Lane Cellars for your first of several winery stops. Now would be a good time to get a small snack to pair with your wine.
- Winery Stop #2: We all know that one winery just isn’t enough. So make your way a little south to sample wine at Brengman Brothers.
- Dinner with a View: After a busy day, you’re probably looking for a real meal. So, grab a table at Farm Club for delicious seasonal dishes with ingredients sourced from the area. Keep in mind that they are walk-in only and don’t allow pets inside or outside. (Bonus Tip: If you want to make an evening of it, be sure to reserve one of their fire pits ahead of time.)
Day 2 – A Full Day of Exploring:
- Rise and Shine: Start your day early and drive up to the top of the Leelanau Peninsula to see the Grand Traverse Lighthouse. Bonus points if you can get there for sunrise!
- A Quick Bite: On your way down, I highly recommend stopping at New Bohemian Cafe for breakfast (and be sure to grab a sandwich for lunch).
- Dunes and Hiking: Get ready for even more adventures as you explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes. There are tons of trails in the area if you’re looking to get in some hiking. Here’s a list from AllTrails with dog-friendly hikes.
- Lunch Outside: Remember those sandwiches you bought from New Bohemian Cafe? It’s lunchtime! Time your hike to take a rest at a stunning viewpoint or find a picnic area to relax and enjoy the fall leaves.
- Naptime: You’ve been going since sunrise. Take a little bit for a power nap or some time to just chill.
- Winery Stop #3: After swapping out your hiking attire with something a little more fun as you make your way to yet another winery. My pick is Rove Estate , which includes a tasting room that’s located at the highest point on Leelanau Peninsula (hello stunning views!).
- Dinner: After a full day, treat yourself to another delicious meal. Modern Bird is a standout choice with a fun menu that includes dishes like cheesy bread with ranch butter (say less!). They accept reservations so be sure to book a slot before they fill up!
- Traverse City’s Nightlife: Life’s too short to miss out on the nightlife! Personally, Low Bar and Union Street Station are at the top of my list.
Day 3 – Time to Say Goodbye (Don’t Worry, You’ll Be Back):
- But First Bagels: I know, the last day is always bitter sweet. But today will still be packed with fun things to do. Enjoy the morning right with a delicious bagel from Bubbie’s Bagel.
- One Last Lakeview Walk: With your breakfast in hand, I highly recommend visiting one of the many parks in Traverse City. Bryant Park is right around the corner from Bubbie’s Bagel and includes beachfront views.
- Be Basic and Love It: Stop by an orchard before heading home. There are many options to choose from, but Rennie Orchards and Gallagher’s are at the top of my list. Don’t forget to snag some seasonal fruit to enjoy after your weekend adventures!
- A Meal for the Road: If you’re looking for the perfect to-go option for a late lunch as you’re driving home, consider stopping by Raduno on your way out.
- Bonus Stop: Did you know that Michigan is home to the world’s largest cherry pie pan (apparently that’s a thing)? I wouldn’t go out of your way to visit it, but if it’s along your route, why not fit in one last stop?
Traverse City is one of my all time favorite places to visit in the fall. If you make your way there this season on your fall road trip, I hope you love it as much as I do.
