20 Attractions to Explore Near Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area

The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, located in Grand Traverse County, Michigan, is a unique destination with plenty to do and see. Visitors to the area can explore the nearby parks and trails while taking in amazing views of Lake Michigan. Inside the buildings of the Commons are dozens of businesses offering a variety of entertaining experiences. From restaurants featuring the finest wines and food to local shops providing art, clothing, books and more.

The City Opera House in Grand Traverse County, Michigan is an amazing venue with a rich history. In 1890, it was originally opened as a theatre that showcased vaudeville acts and motion pictures, making it one of the few theatres west of Lansing at the time. Today, this iconic destination still operates as a theatre and event center, delighting locals and visitors alike with world-class live performances from Broadway shows to local artists.

Clinch Park is an absolute paradise for the outdoorsy types. Located on the northern tip of East Grand Traverse Bay, it is a popular destination for local families. With gorgeous views and loads of activities to choose from such as fishing, swimming, boating, picnicking and even volleyball net stands, there is truly something for everyone here! Added features to the park include a boat launch, playgrounds and bathrooms which makes this recreation area family-friendly.

Miller Creek Nature Reserve is an oasis of nature surrounded by urban development. This 200-acre reserve offers trails for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing during the winter. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the preserve, including deer, waterfowl, songbirds, and other native species. Amenities at Miller Creek Nature Reserve include a footbridge crossing Miller Creek itself, numerous benches for resting and bird watching along the way, as well as picnic areas.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park is a popular destination for Michigan tourists and locals alike. Lake Michigan's cool waters provide an idyllic beachfront for visitors looking to swim, fish, or simply enjoy the wonderful views. Away from the beach, hiking trails traverse the park's dense hills, offering climbers beautiful natural vistas. Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do as well - the park boast courts and fields for a variety of outdoor recreational activities.

The Traverse Area Recreation Trail located in Grand Traverse County, Michigan is a great way to explore this beautiful region. This trails system includes more than 20 miles of car-free paths that wind through forests, meadows and wetlands. Scenic views of West Grand Traverse Bay are complemented by the sights and sounds of various species of birds and other wildlife. With a growing list of amenities like benches, campsites and restrooms spaced along the trails.

The Tart Trail, is a great opportunity for those with a passion for the outdoors. Featuring a relatively flat surface and approximately nine miles of trailway, the range presents an ideal backdrop for biking expeditions. Along this unique corridor users can explore vistas from various heights, traverse numerous bridges and boardwalks, and explore parts of Grand Traverse County that visitors may have otherwise overlooked.

Spider Lake, is a breathtaking natural wonder. It is located on the Boardman River and offers an idyllic atmosphere that any nature lover would enjoy. Whether you're a fisherman or a photographer, there is something for everyone at this stunning lake. Boating, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities here, and it's not unusual to spot local wildlife near the lake too. The lake measures 25 acres with a maximum depth of 20 feet and provides stunning views of nearby villages.

Interlochen State Park is a spectacular spot for outdoor recreation in the heart of the northern Michigan wilderness, it offers an array of activities such as camping, biking, fishing and boating. Hiking lovers will appreciate the stunning beauty of the beach dunes, or take advantage of one of seven trails. Boaters can take full advantage of Crystal Lake with their own vessels or rent one on site. Birdwatchers will thrill at seeing over 200 species that inhabit the area.

Chateau Grand Traverse is a winery located in Grand Traverse County. It produces a variety of award-winning wines that are renowned for their quality, flavor and complexity. The winery also offers educational programs and tastings where visitors can learn about some of the finer points of wine tasting. As well as its great range of wines, guests can enjoy full restaurant meals and outdoor activities at the tasting room or on the beautiful grounds surrounding the winery.

The Boardman River is a major tributary of Lake Michigan, winding through forests, meadows and wetlands before eventually joining the lake. It's a popular spot for a variety of recreational activities like fishing and paddling, but also provides vital habitat for numerous species of bird, fish, amphibians and reptiles. Along its path there are several historic sites that emphasize the importance of this area in both Native American and white settler history.

Lime Lake is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Located just outside the charming town of Northport on Cascade Road, Lime Lake offers visitors spectacular views of the surrounding nature. Those who explore this picturesque area will find opportunities to fish and kayak, as well as to relax among the beautiful beaches that line the lake’s shores. hiking trails in nearby Sutton’s Bay Wind Park provide an exciting alternative to lounging on sunny afternoons.

Little Traverse Lake is an idyllic spot located in the northern regions of Michigan. It is a beautiful lake surrounded by rolling hills, lush forest and a picturesque landscape. Its secluded nature provides a private haven for fishing, boating and swimming—all popular activities here year-round. There are also plenty of opportunities to go out on the lake in kayaks or canoes, or even have a picnic along its shoreline.

Lake Skegemog, is a stunningly beautiful sight to behold. Nestled among rolling hills and evergreen forests, the lake is over 6500 acres wide and has a healthy fish population that makes it a prime spot for anglers. A public boat launch allows quick access so you can be fishing on the lake in no time at all. The banks provide gorgeous scenery, with lush forest canopy and plenty of sandy beaches to relax on.