The Caribbean-like blue waters are seen from every angle as they shimmer in the daylight. The city is dotted by small businesses along a bay front that extends for miles without a high rise in sight. Summer months attract thousands of people to the popular Cherry Festival where there are dozens of attractions and cherries are in every type of food, yes there is even cherry ketchup. During the winter visitor numbers are lower, but still, many make the trip to snowmobile, ski or to see the snowflake covered trees sparkle as a lighted cherry ball drops downtown on New Years Eve. The sightseeing is endless and every moment is a moment to remember. Traverse City, Michigan.
Quarter Finalist 2013 FTF Teen Travel Writing Scholarship
I am extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to spend a large portion of my life in Traverse City. South of Grand Traverse Bay are many lakes where summer cottages are very popular and vacation rentals always seem to be booked. My parents own a cottage on Spider Lake, about 15 minutes from downtown, where nature is at its best. Snapping turtles, otters, and eagles are prevalent. Thick forests cover much of the land and winding roads provide scenic drives. There is easy access to downtown from all these lakes which makes it one of the most popular areas to stay while visiting Traverse City. Cherry Festival, the main event in the summer for Traverse City, attracts over half a million people every year and offers over 150 events for all ages. This week long festival takes place the first week in July. The week starts with a few events such as a golfing contest and volleyball tournament and then kicks off with a tremendous air show over the Grand Traverse Bay. The airshow is one one of the most exciting parts of Cherry Festival for me and is a must see event for tourists visiting this time of year. People line their towels on the various beaches throughout the city and can find a spot with elbow room aside from the thousands of people because of the vast area the city covers. At night there are concerts in the open space area by the bay with a great view of the marina with many boating accommodations. The main shopping strip in the city is a popular area to visit all year long. Various stores with unique gifts line the streets along with the historical State Theater where 25 cent movies can be viewed every Saturday morning. After a busy day downtown many tourists take a relaxing drive up Old Mission Peninsula, located between Traverse City’s East and West bays, where housing developments are few and wineries are state renowned. At the end of the peninsula sunsets are priceless as you look out on the rock covered beach with a majestic, historical lighthouse nearby.
Traverse City is one of the most popular cities to visit in Michigan and is a popular tourist destination in the great lakes region. The amazing blue water along with the family friendly atmosphere creates priceless moments for visitors. Outstanding food and beverages locally made are everywhere for tourists taste test. Scenic drives up Old Mission Peninsula offer breathtaking views. The sun slowly sets on the horizon and each coming day brings a new adventure. Traverse City Michigan.
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