Traverse City

Located in the picturesque Great Lakes region, Traverse City is a true gem of Michigan and the "Cherry Capital" of the USA. This cozy resort city attracts travellers with its sandy beaches, vineyards, and rich cultural life in any season. You can get here in various ways: by using the local airport, taking a drive along scenic highways, or choosing a bus route.

The main air gateway to the resort is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which receives flights from major airlines and ensures convenient connection with the outside world. The airport is located close to the centre, making arrival as comfortable as possible for tourists.

If tickets for direct flights are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighbouring cities with a subsequent transfer. The nearest alternatives include airports in the cities of Grayling, Manistee, or Pellston. These points are located within a radius of 70–110 km from the final destination of your journey.

Direct railway connection to the city of Traverse City is unavailable, as there is no active passenger station in the region. Tourists who prefer trains will have to look for alternative routes through major transport hubs of the state located at a significant distance.

The nearest settlements, such as Grayling, Manistee, and Pellston, also do not have Amtrak stations. Therefore, for a trip to this corner of Michigan, it is recommended to combine transport or give preference to a car and bus.

Bus service allows you to get to the resort from neighbouring settlements while enjoying the views along the way. A convenient route connects the city with Pellston: a trip of about 144 km takes approximately 2.7 hours.

There are also trips from the city of Grayling. However, before purchasing tickets, it is worth carefully studying the schedule, as travel time may vary depending on the number of stops and the carrier's route network.

Travelling by car is one of the fastest and most scenic ways to get to Traverse City. The road from the city of Grayling will take just about 1.1 hours, as the distance is around 80 km.

Travellers departing from the city of Manistee will cover a path of 101 km in approximately 1.4 hours. If you are heading from the direction of Pellston, count on spending about 1.8 hours behind the wheel, driving a distance of 136 km.

To ensure your trip to this picturesque corner of Michigan goes perfectly, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations. Consider these nuances when planning your trip:

1. Seasonal Clothing. The climate near the Great Lakes is changeable. In summer, light clothing and beachwear are useful, but evenings can be cool, so bring a windbreaker. In winter, warm clothes and reliable footwear are mandatory due to heavy snowfall.
2. Transport. Public transport exists in the city, but to visit the scenic surroundings and wineries, it is highly recommended to rent a car.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Bank cards are accepted everywhere, but having a small amount of cash is useful for tips or small purchases.
4. Tipping. In restaurants and taxis, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount, as this is an important part of the staff's earnings.
5. Health. Medical services in the USA are expensive. Be sure to take out travel insurance before flying. The emergency phone number is 911.
6. Language. The main language of communication is English. Knowing basic phrases will help you navigate more easily and communicate with locals.
7. Festivals. If you plan a visit in July, book accommodation several months in advance — during the famous Cherry Festival, the city is crowded with tourists.
8. Code of Conduct. Observe speed limits on the roads and remember that consuming alcohol on the street in open view is prohibited by law.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid unnecessary hassles and fully enjoy the hospitality of Traverse City.