Romantic Things to Do in Traverse City (A Local’s Guide)

I’ve lived in Traverse City my entire life. Which means I’ve done the “what should we do this weekend” more times than I can count. Spoiler: there are so many romantic things to do in Traverse City that it’s never that hard to figure out. The outdoor options alone are endless, and the food and drinks scene punches way above its weight for a town this size.

This list is for locals looking for date ideas in Traverse City and for couples visiting from out of town. Here’s what I’d actually recommend. These are the things that I love to do, and that you will too!

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Get Outside

Getting outside is honestly one of the best romantic things to do in Traverse City no matter the season.

Beach Walks

TC has some really good walking beaches, and it’s a great free thing to do.

In town, my two go-to routes: the Open Space west toward the West End beach area, or starting at Clinch Park, walking toward the Delamar, going through the little tunnel under the road, and coming out into town.

For something more dramatic, head out to Sleeping Bear. Sleeping Bear Point and North Bar Beach are some of my favorite beach walks.

Sunset Spots

If you want a classic really good sunset spot, Esch Beach is the one. Drive out, bring a picnic and/or something to drink.

Mission Point Lighthouse on Old Mission Peninsula is another great option.

Bike the Tart Trail to Suttons Bay

This one’s a classic for us. The TART trail runs along the bay then up through the countryside from TC all the way to Suttons Bay. It’s paved, flat-ish, and scenic the whole way. If you’re not up for the whole out and back, you can go one way and get the bus back from Suttons Bay.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

This is out at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, about 30 minutes from town, and it’s such a great way to spend the day. Dunes, huge sweeping views overlooking Lake Michigan and great picnic spots.

Beach Picnic at Volleyball Beach / West End Beach

The stretch of beach to the west of the Volleyball courts is my favorite for a swim and a picnic. Pack something from a downtown deli like Fogarelli’s or pack snacks and sandwiches from home and bring a blanket.

Drive Old Mission Peninsula

Take a drive from Traverse City up Old Mission Peninsula to Mission Point Lighthouse. On the way maybe stop for some wine tasting. Depending on the season you can see fantastic cherry and apple blossoms on the drive up, or stop at the lavender secret garden at Brys Estate.

U Pick Flowers

Make a bouquet together! Old Mission Flowers, Moondance Flower Farm and Omena Cut Flowers are great places for u pick flowers in Traverse City.

Food and Drinks

Traverse City has tons of great date night spots depending on the vibe you’re looking for.

Dinner options worth knowing

• Flying Noodle 
• Red Ginger
• Stella’s
• Modern Bird

For more recs, I’ve got a full cheap eats in Traverse City post that covers more ground as well as the best happy hours in town great for date nights in Traverse City.

For drinks

• Low Bar – The best cocktails in town
• Little Fleet – Cocktails, beer, food trucks and awesome food from Crocodile Palace.
• The Parlor – Great vibe for date night
• The Coin Slot – A barcade. Super great for a date night in town.

Wine Tasting

This is Traverse City, so yes, wine tasting basically has to be on this list. The Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas are both home to a ton of wineries, and a tasting afternoon along either one makes a really great romantic thing to do in Traverse City. I have a whole post on my favorite Traverse City wineries if you want specifics -I’d start there.

Slower Moments

Restorative Yoga at Yen Yoga

If you want something a little different and more chill, a restorative yoga class together is genuinely a nice change of pace. Yen Yoga is my favorite, and the restorative format means it’s accessible even if one of you doesn’t really do yoga.

Brunch and Wander at Grand Traverse Commons

The Commons is a redeveloped psychiatric hospital campus that’s been converted into shops, restaurants, and apartments. It’s a really cool space to walk around, and weekend brunch there followed by wandering the shops and the grounds is a great low-key date. The architecture alone is worth seeing if you haven’t been.

On the Water

Sunset Cruise on the Nauti Cat or Tall Ship Manitou

A sunset cruise is one of those romantic things to do in Traverse City that feels special every time, even if you’ve lived here forever. Both offer different types of sunset cruises on Grand Traverse Bay. The Tall Ship Manitou is the more romantic option. The Nauti Cat is a catamaran and more of a casual boat party vibe. Both are great; it just depends on what you’re going for.

Winter Ideas

Looking for romantic things to do in Traverse City in winter? TC doesn’t shut down when it gets cold, and is super cozy. Any of the above still work great in winter except for Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and picnics.

Farm Club is open year round for food and drinks a wood fire pits, and is very cozy in winter.

Hop Lot Brewing in Suttons Bay has a great winter vibe too. They have a large outdoor area with fire pits and igloos.

Book a Sauna there are several in the area. Check out Hearth Sauna.

Snow Tubing both Timberlee and Holiday Hills are great. This is a fun winter activity to do with your person.

Romantic Things to Do in Traverse City FAQ