Hotels in Traverse City

Serenity by the Shore: Discover the Enchantment of Traverse City

Nestled between the azure waters of Lake Michigan and the rolling hills of the Leelanau Peninsula, Traverse City is a charming blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Stroll through the picturesque downtown, where boutique shops, artisanal cafes, and local wineries beckon. Explore the stunning beaches of West Grand Traverse Bay or hike the scenic trails of the Sleeping Bear Dunes nearby. With its renowned cherry blossoms in spring and an array of summer festivals, Traverse City offers a romantic escape and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Experience the perfect fusion of relaxation and adventure in this enchanting lakeside gem.

Discover great hotels near Traverse City

Traverse City offers a delightful range of accommodations, from charming inns to upscale hotels. Visitors can find comfortable rooms with modern amenities, often featuring stunning views of the lake. Whether you prefer a quaint bed and breakfast or a luxurious stay, Traverse City hotels cater to various tastes and budgets, ensuring a pleasant experience. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers near Traverse City:

1. Sleep Inn & Suites Bay View Acme - Travers Cityopens in new window: This budget-friendly hotel boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.8 and is ideal for leisure travellers seeking a delightful getaway. With a charming ambiance and stunning bay views, it offers clean rooms and a wonderful breakfast experience that guests rave about. Its pet-friendly policy and friendly staff create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable stay with all the essential amenities at hand.
2. Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Acme-Traverse City by IHGopens in new window: Another excellent budget-friendly option, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Acme-Traverse City by IHG enjoys a guest rating of 8.4. This property is perfect for LGBTQIA travellers looking for a welcoming environment. The hotel features a fantastic breakfast service that ensures freshness and satisfaction. With its clean facilities and courteous staff, it provides a pleasant stay, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a vibrant community atmosphere.
3. Grand Traverse Resort And Spaopens in new window: With a guest rating of 8.4, this 3.5-star resort caters to beach lovers seeking a luxurious retreat. Offering direct access to the beach, it combines stunning surroundings with top-notch amenities, including a spa and various dining options. The overall experience is enhanced by a variety of activities that complement a relaxing stay, ensuring guests enjoy all aspects of a perfect beach vacation.

Where to stay in Traverse City

Some of the best areas to stay in Traverse City are Old Mission, Greilickville, and Bingham. Old Mission offers stunning beaches, perfect for relaxation. Greilickville is ideal for those who enjoy sailing, biking, and a vibrant arts scene. Bingham provides a tranquil atmosphere. For first-time visitors, Greilickville is best suited due to its diverse activities and proximity to downtown Traverse City.

1. Old Missionopens in new window: Old Mission is an idyllic spot for travellers looking to unwind by the beach and enjoy stunning views of Lake Michigan. This region is known for its picturesque landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect getaway for relaxation and nature lovers. You can explore the scenic Old Mission Peninsula, which offers numerous opportunities for beachside picnics and walks along the shore. Along the way, don’t miss the chance to visit local wineries that dot the peninsula, where you can indulge in exquisite tastings and breathtaking sunset views. Staying here gives you a chance to bask in the serene beauty of the area while still being close to Traverse City’s vibrant attractions.
2. Greilickvilleopens in new window: Greilickville is a vibrant area that combines art, dining, and outdoor activities, making it a fantastic place to stay for those wanting a bit of everything. It’s a haven for sailing and biking enthusiasts, with easy access to the waterfront and well-maintained bike trails. The local art scene is rich, with galleries and cultural attractions that showcase the works of talented artists. After a day of exploration, you can enjoy a delightful meal at one of the charming eateries in the area. Greilickville is perfect for those who appreciate a mix of relaxation and cultural experiences, all while being close to the beautiful shores of Grand Traverse Bay.
3. Binghamopens in new window: Bingham is a quaint and charming area that offers a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle. While smaller in scale, it features delightful local shops and scenic spots that make for pleasant afternoon strolls. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the nearby parks and nature trails, providing opportunities for leisurely hikes and enjoying the fresh air. Bingham is ideal for travellers seeking a peaceful retreat while still being within reach of Traverse City’s main attractions, ensuring you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Things to do in and around Traverse City

Traverse City offers a delightful blend of lakeside charm and sandy beaches, ideal for leisurely boating and scenic photo tours. Its verdant parks and inviting golf courses provide a refreshing escape, while local festivals and market strolls add a vibrant touch to your visit.

• Haserot Beachopens in new window – Dive into relaxation at Haserot Beach, a lovely spot where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the gentle sounds of Lake Michigan. With its sandy shores and clear waters, it's ideal for swimming, picnicking, or simply unwinding with a good book.
• Front Streetopens in new window – Stroll along Front Street, the heart of Traverse City, where charming shops and delightful eateries beckon. This vibrant street invites you to explore local boutiques, grab a coffee, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
• City Opera Houseopens in new window – Step into history at the City Opera House, a beautifully restored venue that showcases a variety of performances. Whether you're catching a play or attending a concert, the stunning architecture adds a touch of elegance to your night out.
• Clinch Parkopens in new window – Enjoy some outdoor fun at Clinch Park, where you can wander through lush green spaces, let the kids play, or take a leisurely walk along the waterfront. This urban park is a perfect spot for family outings or a peaceful escape.
• Traverse Area District Libraryopens in new window – Explore the Traverse Area District Library, a welcoming space for readers and learners alike. Browse the extensive collection of books, or take part in one of the many community events that make this library a hub of activity.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Traverse City

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Traverse City is during January, March, and December, when hotel prices are lower and could drop further. For those on a budget, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is ideal for exploring the city's rich landmarks, history, and culture. Visitors can enjoy affordable attractions such as festivals, winery tours, lake views, beer tastings, boating experiences, guided tours, beach outings, shopping, golf, and opera performances, all offering great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Traverse City, visit the Dealsopens in new window or Last-Minute Deals section on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. Additionally, the Smart Shopping feature within the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, helping you identify the best options. By keeping an eye on availability and pricing changes, you'll be well-positioned to book a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so having some flexibility with your travel dates could help you find a better deal on your stay in a Traverse City hotel. If you're in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels can provide a more personalised experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we may suggest alternative dates that could offer more affordability.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but with Traverse City's excellent public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well linked. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Traverse City

Traverse City experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 22.1°F (-5.5°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 68.4°F (20.2°C). October is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Traverse City, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and very cloudy conditions.