Top Things to do 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.
Best Honeymoon Activities in Traverse City
Traverse City offers a variety of activities that will ensure you have a diverse and memorable experience. Check out some of our favorite options for activities:
Seas the Day
Embrace the natural beauty of Traverse City with an array of water activities perfect for honeymooners and mini-mooners. From enjoying a champagne sunset cruise to sailing along the picturesque coastline, there's no better way to create unforgettable memories together.
Catamaran Tours: Enjoy sunset champagne cruises, day cruises, and more aboard the Nauticat.
Private Sailing: Enjoy a serene and private sailing experience, exploring the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan aboard a luxurious sailboat.
Rent Jet Skis: Feel the rush of adventure as you speed across the crystal-clear waters of Traverse City on a thrilling jet ski rental.
Take a Cruise on the Tall Ship: Step aboard a majestic tall ship and set sail on a romantic voyage, capturing breathtaking views of Traverse City's coastline.
Paddle Board: Glide peacefully along the picturesque shores of Traverse City on a paddle board, soaking in the natural beauty and serenity of the area.
Kayak, Bike and Brew: Embark on an active exploration of Traverse City by kayak and bike, discovering local breweries along the way for a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Beach Day: Bask in the romance of a beach day, whether you choose the serene shores of Haserot, Vans, Suttons Bay, Clinch, West Bay, or East Bay, each offering stunning vistas and tranquil waters perfect for a romantic getaway.
Toast Together
Raise a glass to Traverse City's bountiful farm-to-glass experience, perfect for honeymooners and mini-mooners. From tasting exquisite wines at local vineyards to sampling handcrafted brews at rustic breweries and artisanal spirits at charming distilleries, you'll find the perfect flavors to toast your love.
Photo: TC Pinic
Winery Tours: Delve into the region's flavors with tours of esteemed wineries, where you can stroll through vineyards, learn about winemaking techniques, and indulge in tastings of exquisite wines, each sip a celebration of local craftsmanship and terroir.
Brewery Tours: Immerse yourself in Traverse City's vibrant brewery scene with tours that showcase the art of craft brewing. From hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, each brewery visit offers insights into the brewing process and the chance to savor unique flavors that reflect the creativity and passion of local brewers.
Distillery Tours: Explore Traverse City's distilleries, where master distillers craft spirits using locally sourced ingredients. Dive into the art of distillation, from grain to glass, and enjoy tastings that highlight the complexity and richness of each spirit, making every sip an experience to savor.
Picnic: Bask in the romance of a winery day, complemented by a picturesque picnic against the backdrop of the vines. We highly recommend TC Picnic Co.!
TC Wine Girl: specializes in luxury couple transportation for unforgettable tours of Traverse City's wineries, breweries, and distilleries, ensuring a seamless and delightful exploration of the region's finest libations.
Put Your Love in Motion
Explore Traverse City's natural playground and ignite your adventurous spirit with a variety of outdoor activities perfect for honeymooners and mini-mooners. Whether you prefer scenic hikes through lush forests, leisurely bike rides along picturesque trails, or serene walks along the shorelines, there's no shortage of exhilarating experiences to enjoy together in this idyllic Northern Michigan getaway.
Bike the Tart Trail: For the adventurous couple, pedal along the scenic Tart Trail to Suttons Bay. Stop at Farm Club for a drink, enjoy lunch in Sutton's Bay, or veer off to visit some of the nearby wineries.
Hike: Explore Whaleback Natural Area or Mission Point Lighthouse for stunning views of the water and serene surroundings.
Run the Dunes: Embark on a day trip to the awe-inspiring Sleeping Bear Dunes, where you can immerse yourselves in breathtaking natural views and unforgettable experiences.
Taste the Love
Dive into Traverse City's culinary scene and deepen your bond through immersive cooking classes and exquisite wine and food pairings. Whether you're learning the art of local cuisine together or discovering the perfect wine to complement regional flavors, these experiences are sure to add a delectable twist to your honeymoon or mini-moon getaway.
Wine and Food Pairing: Elevate your culinary journey with a sophisticated wine and food pairing experience at Bonobo or Black Star Farms
Cooking Class: Engage in a hands-on cooking class at Black Star Farms or Chateau Chantal, adding a dash of culinary artistry to your trip.
R&R: Relaxation & Romance
Pamper yourselves in Traverse City's serene spas, where relaxation and rejuvenation await honeymooners and mini-mooners. Indulge in luxurious treatments, from soothing massages to invigorating facials, ensuring a blissful escape from the everyday hustle as you unwind together in pure tranquility.
Spa Day: Indulge in a day of relaxation and luxury at the renowned Grand Traverse Spa. Enjoy access to their indoor pool, outdoor hot tubs, sauna, and steam room, complete with a full locker room for your convenience. Treat yourself to a variety of services including massages, facials, body wraps, manicures, pedicures, and blowouts, ensuring a pampering experience that rejuvenates both body and spirit.
Salt Spa: Discover relaxation at Urban Oasis, Northern Michigan's exclusive Himalayan salt spa. Enjoy massages, facials, detox treatments, and more.
Sauna: Embrace the rejuvenating ritual of sauna and cold plunge at Hearth Sauna, where traditional wood-fired warmth combines with a modern communal atmosphere to enhance both physical and mental well-being during your honeymoon.
Best Dining Options For Couples
Destination Options
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.
Farm Club
A farm to table gathering place to celebrate land, food and community. The dining room and patio are open year round.
Downtown Options
Modern Bird provides an ideal setting for indulging in innovative, locally-inspired dishes that celebrate the region's flavors. For a taste of the East, visit Red Ginger, offering modern sushi and Asian cuisine. Alternatively, Sorrelina promises a chic Italian dining experience, perfect for a romantic evening. For a cozy European flair, Amical is a Traverse City staple not to be missed. If you're in the mood for casual dining, Flying Noodle offers a laid-back atmosphere with its pizza and pasta bar. You may also 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. Enjoy cocktails on the lawn 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.
Pack your bags, and get ready for a Traverse City adventure that promises romance, relaxation, and a whole lot of unforgettable moments.
