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CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH A PARTY IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH A PARTY IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN

From the picturesque landscape to a variety of holiday activities, Northern Michigan is an unbeatable place to celebrate and make holiday memories. Whether you’re looking for a venue to celebrate with family or coworkers, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is the perfect destination for your next holiday party. With an experienced Meetings team to assist you every step of the way, you’ll plan a party that everyone will love.

Planning a Family Holiday Party

Family get-togethers around the holidays can be difficult to coordinate and host. Make the planning easy by celebrating at the Resort with the whole family this holiday season. With a variety of venues to choose from, we can accommodate groups of any size. We’ll take care of all of the details from food and beverage to decor. Plus, the Resort has a variety of amenities that are perfect for families. With indoor pools, The Den, and more, you can turn your holiday party into a family getaway when you stay at the Resort.

Planning a Company Holiday Party

If you’re planning a corporate Christmas or holiday party, the Resort can accommodate small groups of 10 or fewer to large groups of up to 2,500. Make the most of your event with pre-fixed holiday menus, gifts for the group, and more. Whether you’re a large corporation or a small business looking to treat your hardworking team, your team is sure to have a great time at the Resort. Outside of the party, your team can enjoy our on-site amenities. Our award-winning spa, fine dining experience at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, and more will make for a memorable company celebration at the Resort.

Ease The Planning Process With Our Biggest Little Holiday Party

Our annual Biggest Little Holiday Party is taking place on December 7, 2024. This event is perfect for small companies, groups of friends, or individuals who are looking for a pre-planned way to celebrate the holidays. If you’re in search of a festive night out with your significant other, we also host couples at the event. Enjoy a pre-party reception, cash bar, a dinner buffet, dancing, and a DJ. There’s no shortage of fun and holiday cheer at our annual celebration.

Celebrate With Grand Traverse Resort and Spa This Holiday Season

When you celebrate the holiday season in Northern Michigan, your group will make memories that will last a lifetime. Nearby outdoor winter activities, holiday shopping, and more make Traverse City the perfect destination to celebrate the holidays. For a fully immersive holiday stay at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, add a Christmas tree to your room. The Resort is decked out in holiday cheer during December, complete with Santa’s Workshop and the infamous Christmas tree in our lobby. Learn more about how to book a holiday party today.

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MAKE THE MOST OF FALL IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN

MAKE THE MOST OF FALL IN NORTHERN MICHIGAN

Fall in Northern Michigan is a special time of year. The mild weather and beautiful fall foliage make it a great time to visit Traverse City. With a range of activities from family-friendly pumpkin patches to exploring the local beer scene, there’s no shortage of fun in the fall season. Discover how to make the most of fall during your next Northern Michigan vacation.

Must-Visit Northern Michigan Breweries

If you’re a beer lover, Traverse City is the perfect place to enjoy a fall day. With an impressive roster of breweries, you’re sure to find a beer you love while soaking up the fall vibes. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere or a place to bring friends, there’s a wide variety of options around the area.

Downtown Traverse City Breweries

Only a short drive away from Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, downtown Traverse City is home to breweries that are loved by locals and visitors alike. Try Loco Boys Brewing Company or North Peak Brewing Co. for a true taste of downtown and the local craft beer scene. On the way downtown, stop at Stone Hound Brewing Company, conveniently located right around the corner from the Resort. Each of these breweries offers its own unique atmosphere and menu. Being only a short distance away from each other, you can make a day of it by hopping around each brewery to find your new favorite beer.

Breweries That Are Worth the Drive

If you enjoy a scenic drive, the surrounding area of Traverse City offers exceptional breweries that are well worth the trek outside of town. Drive up the Leelanau Peninsula to Hop Lot in Suttons Bay. Complete with games, fire pits, and more, the Beer Garden will be a hit among the whole family. Or, head north from the Resort towards Elk Rapids to the famous Short’s Brewing Pull Barn. Nestled between Lake Michigan and Elk Lake, explore the quaint town of Elk Rapids while you’re there. While Short’s doesn’t offer food trucks in the cooler months, the town of Elk Rapids is home to a selection of popular dining options, making it a convenient place to spend the day.

Cider Mills & Pumpkin Patches for the Whole Family

For an activity the whole family will love, experience a classic fall day at a cider mill or pumpkin patch in Traverse City. Jacob’s Farm is an excellent choice with a U-Pick apple orchard, corn maze, donuts and cider, and more. Gallagher’s is a family-owned farm with an impressive pumpkin patch that the kiddos will love. Explore the beautiful orchards and pumpkin patches in Northern Michigan while the weather is the perfect fall temperature and the fall foliage is just right.

Soak up the Last of Golf Season

If you’re not ready for summer to be over, soak up the last remaining sliver of golf season at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Of our three championship courses, Spruce Run will remain open through late October while The Wolverine will remain open for as long as Mother Nature permits. Don’t miss your opportunity to hit the links one last time before the winter months; book a tee time today.

Where to Watch the Lions Game in Traverse City

If your favorite part of fall is football season, we have you covered on the best spots to catch a game. As a proud partner of the Detroit Lions, the Resort is the perfect place to watch a Lions game. Try Jack’s Taproom for a classic sports bar feel, or take the whole family to The Den to play arcade games while you enjoy the game.

If you’re hoping to go off-property to watch a game, Hop Lot features Football in the Tent. Traverse City also has a variety of local dive bars and restaurants that are great spots to cheer the Lions on. Learn more about local bars and restaurants.

Stay With Grand Traverse Resort and Spa This Fall

No matter what your perfect fall day looks like, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is the ideal place to stay this fall. Conveniently located mere minutes from local fall activities, make the Resort your home base for your next fall getaway. Plus, the Resort offers plenty of on-site activities and dining options that the whole family will love. Book your stay.

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PLANNING A CORPORATE MEETING IN TRAVERSE CITY, MI 

PLANNING A CORPORATE MEETING IN TRAVERSE CITY, MI 

Planning a corporate meeting is a complex process requiring a high attention to detail, but finding the perfect location makes it all worth it. Only a short drive from downtown Traverse City and Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is the ideal destination for a corporate event of any size. From selecting the right venue to advising on the surrounding area, our team of experienced meeting planners will guide you through every step of the process. Explore what makes an event at the Resort unquestionably unique and convenient by taking that next step and booking your meeting

Find a Venue That Fits Your Unique Meeting Needs

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is home to over 20 different indoor and outdoor venues, each with unique flair and advantages. The space your group will be spending their days in is crucial to a successful event. We’ve broken down our tips for choosing the perfect venue based on the size and the goal of your corporate meeting. 

Venues for Large Events & Conferences 

If you’re planning a large corporate event or conference, the Resort can accommodate groups of up to 2,500. The largest of conferences can be held in the expansive ballrooms and halls of our multi-level facility. We recommend our Governor’s Hall on the lower level, the lobby level’s Michigan Ballroom, and our transformable exhibit hall spaces for events with high numbers of attendees. Our accommodations and amenities allow for collaboration and comfort among conference goers. The conference services team will be there every step of the way of your event, ensuring that everything from audio and visual to gifts for the group is taken care of. 

Venues for Small to Midsize Events 

 Looking for the perfect destination for a small team retreat or event? Look no further than Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. The Resort offers private boardrooms like the Club Room at the top of our Tower or our lobby level Northwoods Boardroom for small to mid-sized groups. From food to event setup, we’ll take care of the details. Make your event a fully immersive experience for the group by planning team outings at one of the Resort’s many on-site amenities or taking the team off property to explore Traverse City. 

Plan Your Event From Start to Finish 

The convenience of staying steps away from your meeting space not only makes for a smooth planning process as a meeting planner, but also makes for a seamless meeting experience for the whole group. Guests can stay in either our newly renovated Hotel rooms or enjoy views of Grand Traverse Bay from a Tower room. Plus, our dining options on property allow your team to unwind after a day of conference activities. 

Enjoy Team Building Activities

For smaller events or company retreats, there are countless opportunities for team building on property. Book golf, spa treatments, axe throwing, and more to organize an unforgettable team getaway. Or, treat the team to dinner at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, our fine dining restaurant located on the 16th floor of the Tower. 

Explore Traverse City During Your Corporate Event

Traverse City offers an unmatched Northern Michigan experience during every season. If your meeting is in the summer, explore local wineries, beaches, golf, and more during conference free time. In the fall, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the fall foliage, with great hiking opportunities near the Resort. There are even activities in the peak of winter; from winter golf to spa treatments, there is truly an activity for anyone. 

Plan Your Next Corporate Meeting With Grand Traverse Resort and Spa 

Whether you’re planning a large conference or a quaint company retreat, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is an excellent destination to bring your group. Book your meeting by completing our request for proposal. Let us ease the planning process, and we’ll assist you every step of the way.

 

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EXPLORE A HIDDEN GEM RESTAURANT NEAR TRAVERSE CITY

EXPLORE A HIDDEN GEM RESTAURANT NEAR TRAVERSE CITY

 Whether you’re a TC local or just visiting Northern Michigan, Aerie Restaurant & Lounge at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is a must-stop dining destination. Among one of the best restaurants in Traverse City, this fine dining experience will captivate your taste buds while stunning you with unforgettable views from the restaurant. A true hidden gem restaurant in Michigan, take full advantage of your next night out by starting and ending your evening on the 16th floor of Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.  

Begin Your Evening With Aerie’s Signature Cocktails 

What better way to begin your night out than with an Aerie signature cocktail? Choose from a selection of local wine and beer, specialty cocktails, or mocktails. Whether you’re planning a romantic date night or a fun girls’ night out, start your night sipping delicious drinks with your loved ones. Plus, enjoy Happy Hour specials all season long from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm on Tuesday-Saturday. Check out the Aerie page to learn more about Happy Hour specials

Enjoy An Exciting Dinner at a Unique Northern Michigan Restaurant

Known for bold, contemporary flavors, dinner at Aerie is the ultimate fine dining experience. From fresh seafood to premium cut steaks, you’ll find there’s an opportunity to play it safe or step outside of your comfort zone for dinner. The ambiance, exceptional service, and unparalleled views from the Tower create a true culinary journey from start to finish. The talented culinary team has created dishes sourced from local ingredients, making for a true Northern Michigan dining experience.

Indulge in a Decadent Dessert To Cap Off Your Night 

Finish your night off with a decadent dessert or an after-dinner cocktail. Catch the sunset at Aerie for the best view of the sky in town as you enjoy a nightcap. With everything from chocolate goodness to lighter dessert options, Aerie’s dessert menu has something for every sweet tooth. The talented pastry chefs have expertly curated desserts that are the perfect way to end a night out.

The Sunday Brunch Experience

If you’re on the lookout for a brunch spot in Traverse City, look no further. Aerie offers brunch every Sunday, with bites to satisfy your sweet or savory cravings. Perfect for the whole family, brunch at Aerie is a great option for both locals and those visiting Traverse City. If you’re staying with Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, brunch is conveniently located just an elevator ride away. Every brunch includes a Chef’s carving station, traditional breakfast options, and more.

Dine at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge Near Traverse City, MI 

Located in Grand Traverse Resort and Spa near Traverse City, MI, Aerie Restaurant & Lounge is the perfect destination for an unmatched culinary experience. Enjoy the view of Grand Traverse Bay from 16 floors above as you dine. Beautiful throughout every season, the panoramic views are a must-see. Whether you’re staying with Grand Traverse Resort and Spa or are a local searching for a restaurant to try, Aerie is an excellent place for your next night out. Reserve your table now.

 

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THE BEST WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE FALL FOLIAGE IN TRAVERSE CITY

THE BEST WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE FALL FOLIAGE IN TRAVERSE CITY

While Northern Michigan is famous for its unbeatable summers, fall is equally as beautiful and a great time to visit Traverse City. At its peak in early October, the fall foliage is truly breathtaking. With a variety of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from to see the fall colors, we’ve rounded up a few of the best spots around TC to take advantage of the view. 

Fall Hiking Spots Around Traverse City 

If you’re someone who loves a good hike, there are great trails in Traverse City and the surrounding areas that will put you alongside the vibrant trees. 

  • Boardman Lake Loop Trail. Located just a few miles from downtown Traverse City, this trail features Boardman Lake and the peaceful wooded areas surrounding it. Bike or walk the paved trail for up to 4 miles, and even stop for a brew at Right Brain Brewery along the way. 
  • Empire Bluff. The Empire Bluff trail is popular in the summer as it includes a scenic view of crystal blue Lake Michigan. However, in the fall, the way to the top is arguably even better as you’re surrounded by colorful trees. The trail is only about 1.5 miles, making it a great hike for families. While Empire Bluff is a bit of a drive from Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, the views are well worth it. 
  • Alligator Hill. If you’re looking for a longer hike, Alligator Hill is the perfect place to go. Nine miles of trails take you through the leafy forest with views of both Lake Michigan and Big Glen Lake. You can choose your route for this trail, meaning you choose how easy or difficult your hike is. Regardless of difficulty level, you’re sure to be completely immersed in the fall feeling. 

 

While each trail is unique in its own way, one commonality between them all is the impressive views. Take the opportunity to get outside and admire the fall weather and beauty while it lasts. 

Biking the TART Trails in the Fall 

The TART Trails network spans across Traverse City and the surrounding areas. The paved trails are an excellent choice for bikers. Whether you’re up for a long journey across town or the whole family prefers a leisurely ride, TART Trails offers a loop for everyone. While some of the trails take you through downtown Traverse City, many trails run through the peaceful forest – creating a great opportunity to admire the turning leaves.

Explore Traverse City Wineries in the Fall 

Just a short drive away from Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, the wineries on the Mission Peninsula are a great place to relax, sip and appreciate the beauty of Northern Michigan. Additionally, a wine tour is a great option for when Michigan weather inevitably turns cold. If it’s a chilly day, admire the fall foliage from the comfort of inside the wineries while enjoying a glass of your favorite wine. 

Panoramic Views of Fall Colors From Aerie Restaurant & Lounge 

Conveniently located on the 16th floor of the Tower inside Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, the views from Aerie Restaurant & Lounge are unmatched – especially during the peak of autumn. Unique from any other view in Traverse City, Aerie Restaurant & Lounge offers panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay. Look out from above the trees and into a sea of vibrant yellows and oranges along our property. Plus, enjoy our seasonal Fall Lunch at Aerie every Saturday in October from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm. Book your reservation now. 

Plan Your Fall Getaway at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Soak up everything Traverse City has to offer during the fall season by booking a stay at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. Conveniently located near many of Northern Michigan’s must-see trails and wineries, the Resort will help you make the most of your fall trip.

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