Wedding Guest Itinerary: Top Things Your Wedding Guests Will Love
Getting married in Traverse City, Michigan? Congratulations! You’ve truly picked one of the most magical places to get married. Now I’m sure you have tons of stuff on your list from wedding planning to invitations to planning your honeymoon, so let us check something off your list: Things to do for your Wedding Guests! We’ve put together the top things to do in Traverse City that every first-time or frequent visitor would love to see while in town for the big weekend!
Accommodations
Whether your guests prefer the hustle and bustle of downtown or the serene views from the peninsulas, Traverse City has a variety of accommodations to suit every taste.
Downtown
Scenic Beauty and Charming Atmosphere
Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, this hotel offers enchanting waterfront views and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes of Northern Michigan. Located a mere 10 minutes away, the downtown area beckons with its charming assortment of shops, enchanting cafes, and captivating historic architecture.
Unmatched Comfort and Luxury
The Delamar Traverse City offers a blend of fun and luxury with its elegantly designed facilities and vast options of amenities (Artisan restaurant, heated indoor and outdoor pools with cabanas, yoga studio, and live music to name a few). It’s sure to be a luxurious retreat after a day of exploring or wedding festivities. It is also centrally located and easily accessible to explore the city's attractions. From iconic landmarks to the bustling downtown, most attractions are a short stroll away, letting you make the most of your stay.
Spectacular Waterfront Views
The hotel’s prime location puts guests at the heart of the action. A short walk away from Traverse City's vibrant downtown, guests can easily explore a range of boutique shops, art galleries, and a diverse array of restaurants and cafes. It’s also positioned across from Lake Michigan, offering dazzling views of the cerulean waters, adding a touch of natural beauty to your stay. Don't miss the rooftop bar, where you can unwind and sip on refreshing drinks while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Peninsulas
Scenery and Vineyard Views
Located in the heart of Leelanau Peninsula, the Inn at Black Star Farms provides guests with serene vineyard views and the chance to experience Michigan's wine country at its finest. The surrounding lush landscape offers an idyllic retreat away from the city noise. As a part of a renowned winery, guests are treated to complimentary wine tastings and have the opportunity to explore unique culinary experiences. The Inn's gourmet breakfasts and wine-paired dinners are a food-lover's delight.
Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn
Unforgettable Wine-Tasting Experiences
At the heart of Traverse City’s Mission Peninsula wine country, the Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn offers guests a unique opportunity to stay on the 65-acre island. The guesthouse has limited availability due to its size so book early. Upon your stay, you’ll get to engage in guided wine tours, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy the grounds of the vineyard and the views of the Bay.
Culinary Delight
The Riverside Inn, located in Leland, MI, is a great option for those looking for a quiet escape and boutique experience. The inn's architecture showcases a timeless charm, creating an ambiance of warmth and sophistication. Located downtown and on Leland River, guests have access to boating and all that downtown Leland has to offer. They also have a renowned farm-to-table restaurant on site that offers a unique, flavorful experience. The inn's expert chefs craft exquisite dishes from the freshest local ingredients, providing guests with a taste of true Michigan cuisine. This makes it an ideal choice for food-loving wedding guests.
Acme
For those seeking an immersive and all-encompassing experience, look no further than Grand Traverse Resort! Perfectly tailored for families, the resort boasts an array of amenities catering to all ages. With three top-tier golf courses, tennis courts, a luxurious spa, both indoor and outdoor pools, diverse shopping options, the entertaining Den center, five delectable restaurants, and depending on the year a variety of special events for guests. Grand Traverse ensures that every guest's needs are met. There's simply no need to venture beyond the property, except, of course, for the wedding ceremony!.
Top Things to Do in Traverse City
If you're a first-time visitor, there's much to see and do in Traverse City! Here are a few of our top recommendations:
Winery Tour: Traverse City is known for its vineyards along the Leelanau and Mission Peninsula. Visit a tasting room or book a tour to try some of the region's best wines.
Check out our Guide to Fall Wine Tours in Traverse!
Visit the Beach: Enjoy the sun at one of the many beautiful beaches in the area. Clinch Park, West End Beach, Haserot, and Vans are just a few notable mentions.
Take a Boat Ride: There is a variety of boating options available in the area from sailing on catamaran with Nauticat, to sailing with the Tall Ship Co, to renting a pontoon or speedboat, Lake Michigan awaits.
Get Active Outdoors: The Traverse City area is known for its great outdoors. Take a hike on one of the beautiful trails or rent a paddleboard or kayak on Lake Michigan.
Eat Cherry Treats: Traverse City is famous for its cherries. Don't miss out on cherry pie from Grand Traverse Pie Company or cherry treats from Cherry Republic. You can also find fresh cherries at many of the farm stands located in the Peninsulas, take a scenic drive and come home with cherries, win-win.
Drive Up the Peninsulas: Take a scenic drive up either Mission or Leelanau Peninsula. The views of the bay and wineries are well worth it!
Day Trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes: Experience the beauty of Michigan's nature with a day trip to Glen Arbor. Hike the Sleeping Bear Dunes, Dune Climb, or visit one of the immaculate beaches. Check out what else to do in Glen Arbor in our day trip blog.
Day Trip to Leland: Don’t miss the quaint town of Leland, located on the northwest end of the Leelanau Peninsula. Although small, it has many can’t miss spots from Vans Beach to Chubby Marys at the Cove or a sandwich at the famous Cheese Shanty to shopping its galleries, there is so much to see!
Dinner & Cocktails with a View
End your days with a delicious meal and a refreshing cocktail at one of Traverse City's amazing restaurants and bars with a view:
Boathouse: Offers a stunning waterfront setting, perfect for creating memorable moments for a wedding weekend. Guests can indulge in delectable seafood and steak dishes while enjoying breathtaking views of the bay, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Boathouse Menu
Farm Club: Guests attending a wedding in Traverse City would want to dine at Farm Club for an exceptional farm-to-table experience. With its local brews and fresh ingredients, Farm Club offers a unique culinary experience that showcases the flavors of the region. Farm Club Dinner Menu
West End Tavern: If you're looking for a casual but cool spot, make sure to visit West End Tavern located on the Grand Traverse Bay overlooking the marina, they serve classic American food paired with an impressive beer selection. Its expansive deck and view make it the perfect spot to celebrate with friends and family. West End Tavern Menu
Artisan: For an upscale option, try Artisan. With its gourmet dishes, expertly crafted cocktails, and view of the bay, it offers a delightful culinary experience that complements the joyous occasion. Artisan Menus
H&L: Visit the Traverse City Warehouse District to check out H&L rooftop at Hotel Indigo. Take in the views of the Grand Traverse Bay while enjoying a cold beverage on a nice day! H&L is open from May to October. Hotel Indigo Menu.
Cove: If you’re visiting Leland for the day, don’t miss The Cove. It has views of the Leland River and a delectable seafood and drinks menu. Order a Chubby Mary for a memorable experience. The Cove Menu
Blush: Have drinks at Blush rooftop for views of the bay and its delightful selection of local wine and beer flights, perfect for toasting to the happy couple. With its rooftop terrace at Alexandra Inn, diners can enjoy picturesque views while savoring their drinks, creating a memorable experience to complement the wedding festivities. Blush: Rooftop Terrace
Golf
For the golf enthusiast, Traverse City offers plenty of opportunities for golfers to hit the green with several world-class golf courses in the area.
This Jack Nicklaus-designed course offers a challenging yet stimulating golf experience, perfect for seasoned golfers. The meticulous landscaping and breathtaking views make it an appealing destination. Your wedding guests can enjoy a round of golf while taking in the scenic beauty, providing a relaxing retreat before the wedding festivities.
About a 40-minute drive north of TC, is another top choice for golf enthusiasts. This resort boasts 72 holes of golf with breathtaking views of Torch Lake and Lake Michigan. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, A-Ga-Ming offers Stay & Play packages for a memorable golfing getaway.
Located about 1 hour southwest of Traverse, is a must-visit destination for golfers in the United States. With two distinctive championship courses, this club offers an unforgettable golfing experience. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking views and enjoy exceptional lodging and dining options.
In conclusion, we hope this itinerary helps make your guest's stay in Traverse City truly memorable.
But wait! Don't burden yourself with juggling wedding celebrations and vacation planning - let us do the work for you! Here at Dashing Departure, your dedicated Traverse City Concierge, we're equipped to handle all your accommodation and leisure activity bookings, ensuring you have a seamless, worry-free experience.
All you need to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy your wedding weekend. To get started, book today.