Chateau Grand Traverse - 4 Things to Know Before Visiting

Mission Point Lighthouse is a well-preserved part of the state's history. This lighthouse was built in 1870 to replace an 1830s wooden tower, and used for navigation on the west arm of Grand Traverse Bay until 1980. Located on Cathead Point, it stands 34 feet tall with a Signature Fresnel lens. The current structure is painted white with brown trim and sits atop a white retaining wall that contains former boathouse entrances. All around the lighthouse are sprawling manicured gardens.

The Dennos Museum Center is the perfect destination for those who appreciate fine art and culture. It houses an impressive collection of historical and modern art from around the world, including pieces from Native American tribes as well as interactive exhibitions. Visitors also have access to a wide variety of educational activities such as lectures, workshops, classes and more. There's even a sculpture garden for visitors to wander through and explore during their visit.

Bryant Park is an incredible spot in Grand Traverse County. This park is a truly idyllic place to enjoy nature and spend time with friends and family. It stretches across 760 acres of meadows, pastures, wetlands, and a variety of habitats for native wildlife species. The views here are breathtaking; visitors can observe white-tailed deer frolicking in the meadows, turkeys and other birds passing through, and even beavers meandering along the edge of one of the many ponds.

Sunset Park is a beautiful park located in Grand Traverse County, Michigan. Famous for its stunning lake views and picturesque hiking trails, it's quickly becoming one of the most popular getaways in the area. With plenty of amenities, there's something for everyone here - fishing, swimming, boat launches, camping sites and much more to enjoy year-round. A picnic area with grills provides the perfect spot for families and friends to gather.

Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park is a stunning nature escape that offers diverse activities for visitors of any age. Boating and swimming are popular choices, but guests can also spend the day canoeing or fishing on the East Bay of Grand Traverse. For visitors looking for outdoor adventure, several trails line the park for hiking and biking. Towering trees and rolling meadows add to the charming beauty that follows throughout the park making it a great spot for wildlife watching.

Leelanau Trail is a beautiful stretch of former railroad extending along the northwest coast of Lake Michigan. This 20-mile long trail extends from Suttons Bay to Northport and passes through many of the charming towns within the county. Taking a stroll or bike ride along this trail provides stunning views of the lake and conservation areas along its path. The natural landscape with vast rolling sand dunes, towering trees, and soft grassy fields is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures.