Traverse City, MI

Episode 186: Traverse City, MI – Best Beach Towns in the US (Freshwater Edition) Description: We’re heading north to Michigan for this stop in our Best Beach Towns in the US series—and it’s one we’ve loved before! Rob welcomes back Mike Kent from Traverse City Tourism to dive into what makes this lakefront gem one of the best beach towns in the country. From sand dunes and sailboats to cherry pie and goat yoga (yes, really), Traverse City proves you don’t need an ocean to find the ultimate family beach getaway. In This Episode: The stunning freshwater setting of Grand Traverse BayA short modern history: from cherry capital to wine countryThe unique microclimate, sandy soil, and how it supports both cherries and world-class wineSleeping Bear Dunes: 60 miles of shoreline and national acclaimFamily-friendly beach options, paddleboarding, kayaking, and yes—fishing!Accessibility and inclusion: the first autism-certified travel destination in the MidwestTraverse City’s booming food scene: from farm-to-table to food trucks and cherry pie flightsSummer festivals including the 100th National Cherry Festival that's coming in 2026Why shoulder season might be your best time to visitMike’s favorite childhood summer memory—and how families can make their ownThe #1 thing every first-time visitor should do before leaving town Mentioned in the Episode: TraverseCity.com – Plan your trip and explore all the activities, trails, and eventsTraverse City Food & Wine – August culinary celebrationMoomers Ice Cream, Cherry Republic, Farm Club, Right Brain BreweryChateau Chantal's “Jazz at Sunset”National Cherry Festival – celebrating 100 years in 2025!Autism Certified Designation – commitment to sensory-friendly experiences Follow Us! ➡️ Subscribe to The Family Vacationer wherever you get your podcasts 📸 Follow us on Instagram: @thefamilyvacationer 📬 Get more travel tips on our Substack Rob’s Reminder: "Remember folks to keep your passports and your hearts open." Traci’s Tagline (even when off this week): "Safe travels everyone."