One of our favorite Midwest weekend getaways so far was visiting Glen Arbor and Traverse City this summer. It was my second time and Blake’s first, and we had an unforgettable few days exploring northern Michigan. The scenery felt unexpectedly coastal at times, and the whole trip was relaxed, scenic, and delicious. Below is a concise guide to help you plan a long weekend in this beautiful region.
Enjoy the guide!
Where To Stay
We were fortunate to stay at a family home on Big Glen Lake, which was a wonderful lakeside experience. If you prefer renting, there are plenty of lakefront vacation homes and Airbnbs available that offer similar privacy and water access.
Another great option is The Homestead Resort, a spacious property with plenty of on-site amenities. The grounds are extensive and lovely to drive or walk through, and the resort includes restaurants and activities that make it an easy, comfortable choice for a weekend getaway.
Things To Do
A visit to Traverse City isn’t complete without stopping at Cherry Republic. The shop features cherry-flavored products ranging from preserves and sauces to wine and confections. It’s a charming spot to sample local flavors and pick up unique gifts, and there’s a casual dining area nearby if you want a quick bite.
For cherry ice cream lovers, stop at the Boonedocks ice cream shop. Their cherry chocolate moose tracks left a lasting impression for me—just as memorable as when I first tried it years ago. If you enjoy specialty ice cream, this is a must-try.
Downtown Traverse City is perfect for a relaxed stroll. You’ll find independent shops, coffee spots, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere with classic Midwestern charm. The bed-and-breakfasts and storefronts give the area a cozy, timeless feel.
Wine tasting is a highlight in this region. We visited several vineyards with beautiful views of rolling vines and enjoyed sampling local wines—cherry wine quickly became a favorite. There are many wineries to choose from, ranging from small boutique operations to larger tasting rooms, so plan a few stops and savor the scenery.
Historic Fishtown in Leland is worth a couple hours of exploration. The preserved fishing shanties along the water create a picturesque setting, and classic spots like the Village Cheese Shanty serve up simple, satisfying sandwiches for a casual lunch.
Sleeping Bear Dunes is a must-see. The sweeping views across the lake resemble ocean vistas, and the dune climbs are spectacular. Visit early in the morning or late in the day to avoid the heat and to enjoy softer light for photos. Note that there is an entrance fee for the park, and parking policies vary by season.
The scenic drive through the park toward the dunes is beautiful on its own. With the windows down and good music playing, the drive felt like a highlight—one I’d happily repeat.
Places To Eat
For dinner after a vineyard visit, we loved The Farm Club. It’s an inviting restaurant with fresh, flavorful dishes—highly recommended is the pesto pasta. The outdoor seating and relaxed vibe make it ideal for a leisurely dinner paired with regional wine.
The Farm Club also has a charming gift shop where we picked up local items like hot honey and coffee beans. It’s a nice place to find edible souvenirs or hostess gifts.
We also noticed several other inviting restaurants during our stay. One neighborhood trattoria near the house looked particularly appealing for a cozy dinner, and we kept a few casual spots in mind for future visits.
On our last morning we grabbed breakfast burritos from Market 22 and enjoyed them at an outdoor bar area. Even with indoor seating limited, the spot offered a friendly atmosphere and a relaxed start to the day.
We packed a lot into a short trip while also enjoying plenty of downtime on the lake. Big Glen’s water was a striking blue and perfect for sunsets and jet-skiing, even if it was a touch cool for swimming in June. The sunsets from the boat were memorable and made the trip feel special.
This region is a fantastic destination for couples, families, or a group of friends. If you try any of these suggestions, I’d love to hear how your trip goes. Enjoy your time in Glen Arbor and Traverse City—this area is truly a Midwest gem.