Ultimate Guide for your Mini-Moon or Honeymoon in Traverse City
Planning your honeymoon or mini-moon in Traverse City, MI? You're in for a treat! Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Michigan, this gem of a town isn't just about cherries (though they're pretty darn delicious). This picturesque town offers a blend of stunning landscapes, delightful cuisine, and plenty of romantic experiences. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to make your Traverse City getaway unforgettable.
Traverse City Hotels for Honeymooners
Traverse City boasts a selection of top-tier hotels specifically tailored for couples seeking an exceptional retreat. These accommodations go beyond mere lodging, offering meticulously curated experiences that cater to the needs of romantic getaways. From idyllic vineyard panoramas to serene riverside settings, these hotels are carefully crafted to blend luxury, intimacy, and personalized services.
Alexandra Inn
Nestled on the shore of East Grand Traverse Bay, Alexandra Inn offers incredible views and sunsets.
Alexandra's Inn, known for its boutique-style charm and intimate atmosphere, caters to couples seeking a personalized and romantic escape. What sets Alexandra's apart is its partnership with Dashing Departure, Traverse City's premier concierge service. Together, they offer a seamless experience, from finding the perfect accommodations to curating activities, making restaurant reservations, arranging transportation, and beyond. This partnership ensures that your entire Traverse City journey, from start to finish, is meticulously planned and tailored to create unforgettable moments for you and your partner.
Inn at Black Star Farms: Known for its intimate ambiance and attention to detail, Black Star Inn offers a cozy and romantic retreat. With personalized service and a focus on comfort, it's a favorite for couples seeking a tranquil stay.
Chateau Chantal: Offering stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay and a serene vineyard setting, Chateau Chantal provides a blend of luxury and relaxation. Couples often appreciate its winery tours, tastings, and elegant accommodations.
Brys Estate: This winery estate often doubles as an ideal spot for couples, featuring charming accommodations amidst picturesque vineyards. With a focus on wine experiences and scenic beauty, it tends to attract couples seeking a serene escape.
Riverside Inn: Nestled along the Leland River, Riverside Inn is known for its historic charm and romantic setting. Couples may enjoy its riverside views, elegant rooms, and proximity to downtown Leland.
Hotel Delamar: With its focus on luxury and sophistication, Hotel Delamar may cater to couples seeking a chic and upscale experience. Its amenities, ambiance, and attention to comfort make it an attractive option for a romantic stay.
If you're looking for more information about the best hotels in TC, check out our blog on Traverse City’s Best Hotels.
Best Honeymoon Activities in Traverse City
Traverse City offers a variety of activities that will ensure you have a diverse and memorable experience. Some popular options may include, but are not limited to:
Check out the Nauticat, the largest commercial sailing catamaran on the Great Lakes!
Enjoy sunset champagne cruises, day cruises, and more!
Private Sailing: Enjoy a serene and private sailing experience, exploring the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan.
Spa Day at Grand Traverse: Indulge in a day of relaxation and luxury at the renowned Grand Traverse spa.
Winery, Brewery, and Distillery Tours: Delve into the region's flavors with tours of esteemed wineries, breweries, and distilleries, savoring the finest libations along the way.
Beach Day and Picnic: Bask in the romance of a beach day, complemented by a picturesque picnic against the backdrop of Lake Michigan.
Embrace elegance with a beach picnic. We highly recommend TC Picnic Co.!
Hike/Bike the Tart Trail to Wineries: For the adventurous couple, traverse the scenic Tart Trail, meandering through vineyards to reach charming wineries.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Day Trip: Take a day trip to the awe-inspiring Sleeping Bear Dunes, immersing yourself in breathtaking natural views.
Explore Leland: Discover the charm of Leland, a town where quaint shops and lakeside beauty create an inviting atmosphere.
Wine and Food Pairing at Bonobo: Elevate your culinary journey with a sophisticated wine and food pairing experience at Bonobo.
Cooking Class at Black Star: Engage in a hands-on cooking class at Black Star, adding a dash of culinary artistry to your trip.
Add a Dash here, add a sprinkle there at Black Star Farms Cooking Classes!
Destination Options
Farm Club
A farm to table gathering place to celebrate land, food and community. The dining room and patio are open year round.
Head to Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, perched atop a hill, offering panoramic vistas of Grand Traverse Bay. Trattoria Stella, nestled in a renovated asylum, blends historical charm with delectable Italian cuisine. PepeNero is another well known intimate place to celebrate. Indulge in an elegant dining experience at a sophisticated restaurant and lounge adorned with chic decor. Located in a repurposed chapel, this upscale establishment specializes in Southern Italian cuisine, offering a unique blend of exquisite flavors in a stylish setting. From fresh pasta, sauces, ragu - everything is made in house! Farm Club is another great farm-to-table option, located on Leelanau peninsula land, food and community. i
Downtown Options
Modern Bird provides an ideal setting for indulging in innovative, locally-inspired dishes that celebrate the region's flavors. You also may want to consider relishing in an intimate farm-to-table dining experience at The Cooks' House, where each dish tells a story of local flavors crafted with passion and precision.
Modern Bird
Here you’ll find honest flavors that add a touch of warmth to your romantic escape.
Waterfront Options
Traverse City offers a romantic waterfront dining experience, where couples can savor gourmet cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the bay. The Boathouse Restaurant on West Bay offers a captivating waterfront dining experience for couples. Nestled along the Bowers Harbor shores, the restaurant provides a romantic atmosphere with panoramic views of the bay. Guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and local ingredients, all while enjoying the soothing sounds of the water. Meanwhile, Artisan, located downtown on the bay, promises an elegant dining experience with its sophisticated ambiance and carefully curated menu showcasing seasonal ingredients.
The Boathouse
Get a perfect view of the bay. Sunday brunch, cocktails by the fireplace, or dinner during sunset to make your dining experience a memorable one.
So, there you have it—your guide to the best of Traverse City's romantic hotspots. Whether it's sailing the serene waters, sipping local brews and wines, or unwinding with a spa day, this city has it all for your honeymoon or mini-moon. And when it comes to romantic dinners, from PepeNero's modern charm to the intimate setting of Aerie, these spots set the stage for an unforgettable evening. With accommodations like Chateau Chantal and Riverside Inn offering stunning views and cozy comfort, Traverse City's hotels go beyond mere stays—they're gateways to lasting memories.
Pack your bags, and get ready for a Traverse City adventure that promises romance, relaxation, and a whole lot of unforgettable moments.
