It is always best to plan ahead early, especially when you are talking about a well-earned summer vacation. No one wants to arrive at their destination without knowing what to do or see. Luckily, you will have plenty around you to experience when you vacation to Traverse City. Consider starting your summer off with a Traverse City Memorial Day Weekend getaway to the area. You will find some exciting activities and events that are sure to make your vacation worth it. Take a look at how your Memorial Day getaway to Traverse City will look like in 2024:
Bayshore Marathon
If you have visited Traverse City before you know exactly just how beautiful the Grand Traverse Region is. This is not your typical Midwest destination and instead a scenic paradise situated along the Old Mission Peninsula. If you participate in races such as marathons or 5Ks you know that boring scenery can make the event a lot less fun. Luckily, the Bayshore Marathon has been going on since 1983 to offer a marathon with the Grand Traverse Region as the backdrop. Come experience this race during your Memorial Day Weekend getaway. This year’s event will take place on Saturday May 27th offering a full day of exciting races. The Bayshore Marathon includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and a Kids’ Race. This will be the 42nd event for Bayshore Marathon that continues to be a local and national tradition for many. Profits from the event go towards local non-profit organizations for grants and scholarships. Registration for the event is now open and each race does have a cap for the number of participants allowed. Each participant will receive a racing bib, event t shirt, participation medal, and access to the award ceremony. Get ready for this year’s Bayshore Marathon taking place over Memorial Day Weekend!
Visit the Dennos Museum Center
Memorial Day is all about remembering those who have served in our nation’s armed forces. Part of that celebration is appreciating our history that include the many artistic inspirations here in Traverse City. During your stay head over to the Dennos Museum Center located at Northwestern Michigan College. This extensive art gallery features artwork that dates back to the 19th century and later. The most notable exhibit at the Dennos Museum Center is the Inuit art collect that includes drawings, prints, textiles, and sculptures from this indigenous tribe. You will find a variety of events and performances also held at the Dennos Museum Center so look ahead to see what is happening over Memorial Day Weekend!
Visit the Mission Point Lighthouse
One of the most notable attractions here in the Traverse City area is Mission Point Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse is located on the Old Mission Peninsula and is approximately 19 miles from the city. The Great Lakes are massive and required lighthouses to ensure ships would not collide into the shoreline. Mission Point Lighthouse operated from 1870 to 1933 and is located among incredible vineyards and beautiful shoreline. Mission Point Lighthouse has not been operated in almost a century but continues to be a highlight to visit. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours on the lighthouse grounds and climb up the stairs to the very top. Mission Point Lighthouse is open for visitors from May to November so you will be one of the first visitors over Memorial Day Weekend.
Explore the Grand Traverse Commons
Another attraction that is known by many here in the area is the Grand Traverse Commons. What was once an asylum that was built in the 1800s has been turned into an outdoor shopping center. The buildings are historically preserved so you can enjoy a walking tour through the area. Enjoy a visit to the many eateries, salons, boutiques, shopping stores, and more during your visit to the area. No visit to Traverse City is complete without visiting the Grand Traverse Commons.
Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes
Another local landmark that is a cherished among locals is Sleeping Bear Dunes. This national park and shoreline offers a tranquil and picturesque setting that includes sandy beaches, towering bluffs, and lush forests. The Traverse City Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to visit the dunes for the first time as the weather is warming up and the snow has cleared. Hike the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail that has 20 miles of hiking and biking trails. Many of the beaches feature swimmable areas in the water. You will also find historic lighthouses and coast guard stations to explore too. Come check out Sleeping Bear Dunes off your national park bucket list.
Get Ready for Your Traverse city Memorial Day Travels
Traverse City is waiting for you here this Memorial Day. Book one of our vacation rentals in the area to be close to these many events and activities in the area.
