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About the Traverse City Area

traverse city

Located 15 miles northeast of Interlochen Center for the Arts' campus, Traverse City and the surrounding area regularly receive accolades and recognition for its natural beauty, food and wine, and arts and culture.

But don't let us tell you. Here's what the experts have to say:

Whether you're visiting our campus for a concert or dropping off students for Arts Camp, we invite you to explore everything else northern Michigan has to offer. 

In addition to beaches, boating, biking and other outdoor pursuits, the Traverse City area offers a variety of festivals and events:

For a small town, the Traverse City area offers a huge number of excellent restaurants, breweries, wineries, farmer's markets, and food-themed events. Some favorites include:

  • Amical - cozy downtown bistro offering eclectic European cuisine and an amazing dessert menu.
  • A trip to Traverse City is not complete without a stop by the Grand Traverse Pie Company.
  • Located downtown next to the historic State Theatre, Red Ginger offers upscale Asian fusion and sushi.
  • The Cooks' House is one of the midwest's "cultiest eateries."
  • Located in the historic Grand Traverse Commons, Trattoria Stella offers unmatched service and ambiance.
  • 7 Monks Taproom - over 40 beers on tap (including beer brewed by Trappist monks) and an inventive menu employing locally sourced ingredients.
  • Drive 25 minutes north of Traverse City to the waterfront village of Elk Rapids, where you'll find festive Cajun/Creole cuisine at Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen.
  • 9 Bean Rows in nearby Suttons Bay is a charming artisan bakery and cafe, located in an old firehouse.
  • Traverse City Microbrew & Music Festival - In August, sample over 200 beers and enjoy great music on the grounds of the Grand Traverse Commons.
  • Moomers Ice Cream - voted "best ice cream shop in America" by Good Morning America.

For much more information and recommendations, check out the dining guide on MyNorth.com.