Skip to main content
exterior aerial view
Stay with us

Have a group/offer code?

Click here

enter your group/offer code here

Go back to form
Back to Blog
The tops of trees at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa in peak fall color from above.

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.