Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Have you ever thought about a summer trip to northern Michigan? Perhaps the ‘Pure Michigan’ commercials made you curious? Being an East Coaster, I was intrigued by the idea of a Midwest version of Cape Cod. Michigan has hundreds of miles of lakeshore all with nearly perfect summer temperatures. I was ready for a quintessential summer experience.

With less than 15,000 people, Traverse City is the ideal spot for first-timers to Michigan’s Riviera. Surrounded by quaint towns, endless forests and wilderness, the word ‘city’ almost doesn’t seem appropriate. To sum it up, Traverse City has everything you could want in a summer wonderland, so it won’t come as a surprise that it’s booming.

Charming Downtown

Across from Front Street, Traverse City’s main thoroughfare is its jewel, the spectacular 32-mile-long Grand Traverse Bay, known for its shimmering blue water and golden sand beaches. Bike paths along the shoreline reminded me of Switzerland’s uber clean lakes with water looking pure enough to drink! The downtown has a thriving culinary and brewery scene as well as unique shops, perfect for exploring on an afternoon stroll. After a full day of activities we were happy to return to our accommodations at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa.

Understated Luxury Surrounded by Nature

The property is Northern Michigan’s premier luxury resort. We were lucky to get a room in the newly renovated Tower with a bay view which I highly recommend. Once we were on the 15th floor and taking in the views, we wondered if we’d leave the room at all. Not only are the accommodations incredibly spacious and comfortable, the bath may be just about the largest I’ve seen in a hotel.

A stay offers blissful days enjoying nature, whether kayaking on the lake or biking through the hills. Then return to luxurious comfort at the end of the day. Or just relax at the resort’s private beach equipped with chairs, umbrellas and a pool with a hot tub. June is not considered high season and even though there’s a little chill in the air at night, we had picture perfect days at 75 degrees. The waters of the Grand Traverse Bay, on the other hand, may still be hovering just above freezing so unless you’re in the mood for a polar plunge you’ll be staying with on the water activities.

Fine Dining with a View

Aerie Restaurant on the 16th floor of the Tower is the resort’s principal restaurant and offers 360-degree panoramic views of the bay and surrounding cherry farms and vineyards in the area. Floor to ceiling windows towering two stories create a floating on top of the world atmosphere and the serenely romantic décor is perfect for a date with someone special. Menu items include Faroe Island Salmon and Dry Aged New York Strip Steak served with to die for truffle whipped potatoes.

Year-Round Activities

The resort offers year-round activities with three golf courses surrounding the property, purportedly the finest in the Midwest, two pools and tennis courts. In winter the region averages 100 inches of snow, so Traverse City is ideal for winter sports enthusiasts with snowshoe hiking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing available close by. And don’t forget a massage or facial at the beautiful on-site spa.