Exciting Chicago to Traverse City Road Trip 

Chicago to Traverse City Road Trip

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as we embark on a captivating spring break road trip from the vibrant city of Chicago to the serene shores of Traverse City, Michigan. On this spring break road trip from Chicago to Traverse City you will get a day by day itinerary, complete with the best places to stay, local cafes, must visit attractions and hidden gems to make the best spring break road trip from Chicago to Traverse City.

How long does it take to drive from Chicago to Traverse City?

The drive from Chicago to Traverse City is approximately 350 miles, and takes 6 hours and can be driven in one day. However, to fully appreciate the beauty of this region, we recommend taking at least 4-5 days to complete the journey. Here is the best guide to the best road trip from Chicago to Traverse City.

When is the Best Time to Take a Road Trip from Chicago to Traverse City 

The best time to embark on a Chicago to Traverse city road trip depends on your preferences and what you want to experience. Here’s a breakdown of each season:

Spring (April – June): Spring is a great time to visit Traverse City as the weather starts to warm up, and the cherry blossoms begin to bloom. The roads are less crowded, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside. Early March may bring some snow. The upper peninsula will still be covered in snow, and most things will be closed. Roads may even be inaccessible or not maintained. May would be optimal month for a spring getaway from Chicago.

Summer (July – August): Summer is peak tourist season in Traverse City, with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and exploring. However, the roads and attractions can be crowded, so plan accordingly and reserve lodging as early as possible.

Fall (September – October): Fall is arguably the best time to visit Traverse City, thanks to the stunning fall foliage. The weather is crisp, and the roads are less crowded, making it ideal for a leisurely road trip.

Winter (November – March): Winter in Traverse City is cold and snowy, but if you’re a fan of winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, this could be the perfect time for a road trip. Just be prepared for potentially hazardous driving conditions.

Ultimately, the best time to take a road trip from Chicago to Traverse City depends on your interests and what you want to experience. Each season offers its own unique charms, so choose the time that aligns best with your preferences. We went on a spring break getaway from Chicago late April, early May and it was super fun.

Best Routes to take From Chicago to Traverse City

There are several different routes you can take on a road trip from Chicago to Traverse City.

1. I-94 W and US-131 N (Fastest Option)

Distance: 340 miles Driving Time (Peak Traffic): Approximately 6.5 hours Driving Time (Low Traffic): Approximately 5.5 hours

If reaching your destination quickly is your top priority, taking I-94 W and US-131 N is your best bet. This route, spanning 340 miles, takes you through scenic landscapes and avoids major cities, which can significantly reduce travel time. During peak traffic hours, expect a journey of around 6.5 hours. However, if you choose to travel during off-peak hours, you could shave off an hour and complete the drive in approximately 5.5 hours.

2. I-94 W and M-37 N

Distance: 350 miles Driving Time (Peak Traffic): Approximately 7 hours Driving Time (Low Traffic): Approximately 6 hours

For a slightly longer but equally efficient option, consider taking I-94 W and M-37 N. This route spans 350 miles and offers a mix of highways and country roads. While it adds a few extra miles to your trip, it often allows for smoother and less congested travel compared to the primary interstate route. Expect a driving time of around 7 hours during peak traffic hours, but if you hit the road when traffic is lighter, you can probably arrive in Traverse City in about 6 hours.

3. US-31 N (slowest Route)

Distance: 370 miles Driving Time (Peak Traffic): Approximately 8.5 hours Driving Time (Low Traffic): Approximately 6.5 hours

If you have a flexible schedule and prefer a more leisurely drive with scenic views, consider taking US-31 N and driving along the Lake Michigan Circle Tour. This route may take you a bit longer, as it spans 370 miles, but it offers a picturesque journey through charming small towns and along the shores of Lake Michigan and if i’m being honest much more fun.  During peak traffic hours, expect a driving time of approximately 8.5 hours. However, if you can time your drive to avoid heavy traffic, you can complete the trip in about 6.5 hours.

Car Rental Options from Chicago to Traverse City 

If you are flying into O’Hare Airport, you will need a rental car. Our preferred rental car is Hertz. They always have the best rates, are reliable and their customer service is amazing. 

Alternatively, compare rates with other rental car companies here

Another great, affordable and convenient option would be to rent a campervan or RV for your road trip. Renting a campervan or RV could save you money, as you won’t have to spend money on lodging. It will also give you tons of flexibility on the road.

Imagine sleeping right next to shore in the comfort of the back of your van and waking up to fresh spring air immediately. 

Campervan Rental

Make the dream come true by renting a Camper Van or RV on Outdoorsy. 99 percent of any time we road trip, we rent a camper van. Not only do we save tons of $$$ on lodging, we have so much more flexibility on the road. It is easily the best decision to make. If you decide to rent a campervan, make sure your insurance covers rentals and don’t rely on their insurance. Take your own photos before taking possession of the rig, don’t break anything, and you’ll be just fine. You will get your deposit back once the owner confirms there was no damage during the rental period.

You can also check out Turo . While usually cheaper, the car pickup location is very far away and would not make it practical.

chicago to traverse city road trip
Chicago to Traverse City Road Trip
Days4-6
Miles350
Driving Time6.5 hours (conservatively)
Cities10+
Highways DriveLake Michigan Circle Tour, US-31 North
Lighthouses6
National ParksIndiana Dunes National Park, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Beaches/LakesToo Many
CostPriceless
Chicago to Traverse City Road Trip

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Things to Bring on a Road Trip from Chicago to Traverse City

  • Tent Camp( something lightweight and portable to bring around and to set up camp on a beach any time you want
  • Sunglasses
  • Sandals (my favorite have had them for years)
  • Beach Towels
  • Smores (for those late night bonfires at the beach)
  • skewers (for those late night bonfires at the beach)
  • binoculars always make the view extra special and intimate
  • a positive, grateful attitude

Related Reads: Ultimate Spring Break Road Trip from Chicago to Door County

Day 1: Chicago to St. Joseph (100 miles, 2 hours)

  • Estimated Costs: $150-$200
  • Highlights: Indiana Dunes National Park, Silver Beach, St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse

As you leave Chicago behind, you’ll embark on the Lake Michigan Circle Tour, a scenic drive that hugs the shores of Lake Michigan. This route offers stunning views of the lake, as well as charming towns and villages along the way. Fuel up at a gas station near Chicago to fuel up for the journey ahead. WIthout further ado, let’s get this road trip started! 

Places to Stop Between Chicago and St.Joseph

Stop 1: Coffee First 

Stop to grab some coffee from Chicago at True North Cafe Hyde Park, a small pit stop just before you head south from Chicago on I-90. 

Stop 2: Porter, Indiana ( 30 miles, 40 minutes) 

Drive along I-90 and I-94 for about 40 minutes and you will come across Indiana Dunes National Park.  This string of sandy beaches and trails through marshland, dunes, and forests has views of the lake and Chicago skyline While the park is considered a national park, it really does not have the same acreage and size that other national parks have. I’d pass on visiting Indiana Dunes NP, unless you’re trying to just tic off another NP. We’ve been to about 20 NP’s, and IMO it’s one of the most underwhelming. 

However, it still has nice views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. So I would say it is worth a stop. Stretch your legs and take a walk on the Dune Succession Trail which is mainly a boardwalk, where you’ll be able to see views of the vast Lake Michigan. It takes you down to a beach where you can hang out and enjoy the waves. 

On long weekends and warm days parking can be a challenge with a wait of up to 2 hours.

Dune Succession Trail at Indiana Dunes National Park 

Stop 3: Chesterton, Indiana  (11 miles,15 minutes) 

If you love seeing old downtown areas, downtown Chesterton would be the place to be exploring. They’ve got the oldest bookstore, and the downtown area is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. 

My favorite stop was the European Market in downtown Chesterton, where you can find a variety of local produce, baked goods, crafts, and more. The market is open on Saturdays from May through October. It is super festive and fun and definitely check it out. 

After you have visited Chesterton, and if you are feeling hungry, you have to stop at Redamak’s in New Buffalo for the BEST BURGER you’ve ever had, bring cash, get the Velveeta cheeseburger.

Redamaks Burger

Stop 4: New Buffalo, Indiana 

I am only recommending you make a full stop here to go to Redamak’s in New Buffalo for the BEST BURGER you’ve ever had, bring cash, get the Velveeta cheeseburger.

Stop 5 : Sawyer, Michigan ( 35 miles, 35 minutes) 

Continuing north along I-94, you will come across numerous places to stop for a bite to eat, antique shops, art shops, a few public beach areas (although beware of signs which tell you the beach is NOT open to the public) and many other types of shops along the way. 

Stopping at the city of Sawyer ,will be great for lunch and some sightseeing…and some shopping. If you love shopping like me, go to the Garden Shop (Unlike any you have ever seen). They’ve got everything from garden, produce, gourmet food, home decor, kitchen gadgets candles/patio furniture etc etc etc! Always something interesting! Great gift ideas too.

For lunch you can picnic at Warren Dunes State Park. Grab pizza at Emma Hearth & Market in  and have yourself a beautiful picnic on the beach. Enjoy a meal with a view at one of the park’s picnic areas, which offer tables, grills, and stunning scenery. The park has massive dunes to climb, the kids will love it. 

Picnic Tables at Warren Dunes State Park, $11 fee to enter

Another great beach area just a couple miles north of Warren Dunes is Weko Beach ( $15 entrance fee). Its beautiful, it’s clean and it’s just another perfect stop on your road trip from Chicago to Traverse City. 

Weko Beach

Stop 6: St. Joseph (10 miles, 20 minutes) 

The last and final stop for the day will be St. Joseph. The city has gotten super popular over the years, it’s easily got the best view of Lake Michigan. 

While at St. Joseph be sure to check out St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse. Visit the iconic  35 foot lighthouse, which offers picturesque views of Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph River. The lighthouse is a popular spot for photos. See 2 iconic, historic lighthouses on a breakwater with an elevated catwalk & dramatic sunset views.

Lighthouse #1: St. Joseph North Pier Lighthouse

Silver Beach Park is nearby, enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking with stunning views of the lake. The sunsets are spectacular. Of course the quaint community of downtown St. Joe is a must visit. 

Downtown St. Joseph is filled with many shops, eateries and art galleries. You can spend half a day here if you’d really like trying out all the different foods and shopping at all the small businesses. 

Take a leisurely stroll through Tiscornia Park, which offers scenic views of Lake Michigan and the St. Joseph River. The park is also a great spot for picnicking and birdwatching. 

Tiscornia Park at Sunset ( pay to park) 

Best Places to Eat in St. Joseph

Best Places to Stay in St. Joseph 

Day 2: St. Joseph to Ludington (150 miles, 2.5 hours) 

Day 2: Chicago to Traverse City Road Trip
  • Estimated Costs: $100-$150
  • Highlights: Windmill Island Gardens, Nelis Dutch Village, Grand Haven South Pierhead Lighthouse, Van Buren State Park, feeding elk, beach picnics 

On day 2 of this road trip from Chicago to Traverse City, you will want to wake up early and hit the road. Continuing along I-31 North, I think you will find the leg of the trip a sweet one. So lets get started. 

Related Reads: Summer Road Trip from Chicago to Door County

Places to Stop between St. Joseph and Ludington 

Stop 1: South Haven, MI 

Get yourself some breakfast at Clementine’s Restaurant. They’ve got arguably the best blueberry pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. 

After you have fueled up head to Van Buren State Park to explore the stunning beaches, more sand dunes( if your not tired of them yet) and many hiking trails at this beautiful park.

Dunes and Lakes at Van Buren State Park – name a better combo

Stop 2: Holland, Michigan (30 miles, 30 minutes) 

Experience a taste of the Netherlands by visiting Nelis Dutch Village with this unique attraction featuring Dutch architecture, shops, and entertainment. Why travel abroad, when you can experience dutch charm right in Holland

Nelis Dutch Village via Trip Advisor( $30 per person) 

Also in Holland, it’s worth your while to stop at Holland State Park for a quick swim in Lake Michigan( if you are brave) or to see the Big Red Lighthouse. You can park just outside the park and walk in for free. The park has several paved paths to help with accessibility for better views of the Big Red Lighthouse and watch the boats go out onto the lake. It’s a great stopping point for a picnic or to stretch your legs as you gaze out into the lake. 

Lighthouse #2: Big Red Lighthouse at Holland State Park Via Discover Holland Michigan 

Even you are hungry at this point, consider having a dutch lunch at one of these Dutch restaurants: 

Stop 3: Grand Haven, MI (22 miles, 30 minutes) 

Downtown Grand Haven is where you will want to stop for lunch on day 2 of this road trip. If you want to do some activity before eating, Rosey Mound Trail has a great walk to the beach. If you can manage a half mile and a couple hundred stairs, it’s worth the walk. Dress warm as it can be 20 degrees colder on the beach than in the parking lot. It’s also a great place for an incredible beach picnic. 

Rosey Mound Trails : Perfect hike to picnic spot, takes you right to the beach 

Take a walk around Spring Lake at Ottawa Sands Park.There is no entrance fee. There are picnic tables, parking and bathrooms at the trailhead. Also dogs are allowed. But fair warning the trail around the lake is pretty sandy. You may get lucky and see an eagle or a heron! 

Yummy Lunch stops/eats at Grand Haven

  • If you are a mexican food fan you have to go to try  Righteous Cuisine for a  great bbq/Mexican fusion. Must get the nachos, i’d argue they are life changing
  • Kirby House -right in downtown area and opportunity to walk along the pier 
  • Aldea Coffee Shop– for only the best coffee in town 
  • Fortinos -for some gourmet candy to keep you company for the rest of your road trip, such fun little candy shop 
  • Unicorn Tavern– Belgian inspired restaurant with outdoor seating and incredible burgers and fries 

Stop 4: Ludington ( 60 miles, approx 1 hour) 

If you need more coffee on your continuing road trip to Ludington, stop at The Coffee Factory in Muskegon. It will definitely get you the fuel you need. On your way to Ludington, consider stopping at Silver Lake Sand Dunes to explore the massive sand dunes and enjoy scenic views.This is my favorite place to visit in Michigan. The sand dunes are massive, and you can walk around for hours up and down the sand dunes as if you were in the Saudi Arabian desert.

The sand dunes have lots of personality, from the ancient tree stumps that have been sandblasted for over 100 years, to the peaceful Lake Michigan shoreline. It’s a very unique landscape that is hard to find in Michigan. If you’ve never seen it before I highly recommend making a stop even if for a short time. 

Silver Lake Sand Dunes via Pure Michigan

A las you arrive in Ludington, your last and final city for the day, and by this point you are maybe a zombie or the energizer bunny. If you’ve got more room to explore, visit Ludington State Park  and check out the 112 foot black and white striped Big Sable Lighthouse. There is a 2 mile hike to get to the lighthouse that is not too strenuous. 

Lighthouse #3: Big Sable Lighthouse

In between Ludington and the state park to the north is a bunch of dunes and pretty empty beaches you can just relax at. It is on road M-116. The beach along this stretch is super clean with white sands and almost always pretty isolated, with few people. It’s really nice and it’s the perfect place for a picnic and a spectacular sunset viewing. 

Road M-116: Stretch of road where you can park and walk over the sand dunes to have a beach all to yourself. 
Road M-116: Stretch of road where you can park and walk over the sand dunes to have a beach all to yourself. 

If you would love to see an elk and avoid having to climb a mountain in Colorado, visit Amber Elk Ranch in Ludington to see elk up close. You will have  a chance to feed the elk and see them up close. They are giant but they are also gentle. Definitely can be a fun experience for kids as well! 

Feeding the elk at Amber Elk Ranch via Trip Advisor user EdS

All in all, when in Ludington you cannot go wrong with whatever you decide to do. We were perfectly happy to drive around the area, just taking in the scenery.

Best Places to Eat in Ludington

I’ll be honest, in my humble opinion  the Ludington dining cuisine is fine, not great, but here are some of my recommendations.

  1. House Of Flavors– if your into tasting the best key lime pie ice cream
  2. Blu Moon Bistro– if you can’t decide which cuisine you’d like to eat, they’ve got a robust menu of different fusion cuisine
  3. Chuckwagons Pizza– to get your pizza fix 

Best Places to Stay in Ludington  

  1. The Ludington House Bed and Breakfast (Ludington, MI): Immerse yourself in history while staying at this charming bed and breakfast housed in a Victorian mansion.
  2. Charming AirBnB less than $100 per night
  3. Hotels less than $100 per night 

Day 3: Ludington to Glen Arbor (80 miles, 2 hours)

  • Estimated Costs: $100-$150
  • Highlights: Sleeping Dunes National Lakeshore, another lighthouse for your lighthouse album 

You’ll want to start Day 3 of this road trip from Chicago to Traverse City extra early so that you can have time to explore Sleeping Dunes National Lakeshore while still seeing everything else. If you want to just head to Sleeping Bear without making any stops that would be another option as well! 

Whatever you decide, decide on getting a warm cup of coffee(or iced) and savory breakfast first  at Chef John’s Breakfast in Ludington. 

Places to Stop Between Ludington and Glen Arbor

Stop 1: Manistee ( 35 miles, 25 minutes) 

Manistee has an historic downtown area and a lighthouse that will be a great start on day 3 of your Chicago to Traverse City road trip. 

If you haven’t already grabbed breakfast, grab breakfast at one of these downtown cafes and then explore yet another charming lighthouse that Michigan has to offer. Hopefully you are not sick of them yet. 

Lighthouse #4: Manistee North Pierhead Lighthouse for great views of Lake Michigan via Manistee County Visitors Bureau

Stop 2: Frankfort ( 40 miles, 50 minutes) 

Frankfort Michigan will always be one of my favorite places in the US. The town is so small yet it’s got so much flair and character to it. And it’s usually not too crowded. 

We took a special trip around Crystal Lake, and it was such a beautiful drive. The beach looked lovely and the name is fitting ( the lake is exceptionally clear)  and there is such a variety of houses all along the lakeside. There is a cute playground on the beach when you get to Main Street and several restaurants to grab a bite to eat. 

Crystal Lake

For all the lighthouse lovers, you will love seeing the Point Betsie Lighthouse  located just north of Frankfort.I’m not sure how often it happens, but they sometimes have kite flying festivals on the beach.

If you need another dose of coffee to get you through the rest of the day check out Crescent Bakery in Frankfurt. 

Lighthouse #5: Point Betsie lighthouse via Pure Michigan

Stop 3: Glen Arbor (40 minutes,30 miles ) 

You can easily spend a couple of days at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to explore this stunning area which features towering sand dunes and beautiful beaches and crystal clear water.  The dunes are definitely a must see and must climb if you dare. The dunes are steep, but they are a rewarding trek to get you to the lake and some beautiful overlooks. You may get a mouthful of sand just going down but it’s so worth it. I quite literally lost my breath at the views… and at the uphill. 

The Dune Climb at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Additionally, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is located in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The 7.4 mile drive loops through the Beech-Maple forest and sand dunes and provides insight to the history of the area, a sampling of the vegetative communities, and spectacular overlooks stops including the two Glen Lakes, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Lake Michigan. 

Pierce stocking scenic drive overlook spot 

There are many pull over spots for admiring the view and taking pictures. You can take a dune hike along the Cottonwood Trail or stop for a picnic at one of the picnic areas on the drive.

Stop in Glen Arbor for shopping and dining, and consider visiting the nearby Glen Haven Historic Village. Glen Lake is another exceptionally clear lake you can visit. National Geographic calls it one of the most beautiful lakes in the world and the crown jewel. 

Not too far from Glen Arbor is the Empire Bluff Trail in Honor, Michigan. I suggest this trail for those who are not afraid of heights and for those who love a view of the lake 400 feet above the lake. It is about 3 miles round trip and offers the most stunning views of the Lake and surrounding areas. 

Views of Lake Michigan from the Empire Bluff Trail, You would think you were in the tropics with how blue the water looks 

To end the night, if you are a long walk on the beach kind of person, Glen Haven Beach is super pretty and even more magical at sunset. 

Best Places to Eat in Glen Arbor

  • Cherry Public House – excellent food and excellent atmosphere
  • Joes Friendly Tavern– serves American fare like class burgers 
  • Shipwreck Cafe– for wood fired pizza… yum… especially more yum after climbing the dunes
  • Funistrada – great Italian restaurant on Glen Lake (reservations are a MUST for these two, especially near the holiday.

Best Places to Stay in Glen Arbor

  • The Homestead : A resort located on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering a range of accommodations from hotel rooms to condos and homes.
  • Glen Arbor Bed & Breakfast: A cozy bed and breakfast in the heart of Glen Arbor, offering comfortable rooms and a homemade breakfast.
  • Glen Arbor Cottages & Suites: Charming cottages and suites with kitchenettes, located near downtown Glen Arbor and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. 
  • Hotels in Glen Arbor 
  • Comfortable AirBnBs in Glen Arbor
  • D.H Day Campground: honestly campgrounds are my favorite places to stay especially when I am in a campervan. There is nothing like going to sleep hearing the waves,looking at the stars at night, waking up to the sunrise and feeling the cool breeze against your skin first thing in the morning. Make sure you check the website for availability frequently, for cancellations which will allow you to make a reservation for one of the greatest camping locations anywhere.
The Caribbean of Michigan – picture from Alligator Hill Trail, close access from DH Day Campground

Day 4: Glen Arbor to Traverse City ( 30 miles, 30 minutes) 

From Glen Arbor you will head south on M-22, pass through Glen Lake and then get on M-72 E towards Traverse City, your last and final destination of this road trip. 

M-22 S Road passing Glen Lake ( pretty Lake views) don’t forget to Drive ten (or 20) miles below the speed limit while staring at the lake, while slowly sipping your latte

Leaving Glen Arbor will make you sad but believe me there’s more to see and feel in Traverse City.

Things to Do in Traverse City

Once you get to Traverse City explore and wander the downtown area which has so many neat shops and restaurants. I suggest you get breakfast at Bubbas, they’ve just got some feel good classics, and are sure to satisfy your taste buds. If you only need a coffee fix, Mundos Coffee will be your fix. More places to eat in Traverse City are below. 

I am a sucker for farmers markets and try to go to as many as possible whenever I go to a new city. If you happen to be in Traverse City on a Wednesday , you should check out the downtown farmers market. They have got just about anything from fresh produce, flowers, and fresh baked bread. While there you have to check out Merlyns Patisserie for the best asian french inspired baked treats. 

Other things to do that might spark your interests is visiting the Old Mission Lighthouse in Old Mission State Park. 

Lighthouse #6: Old Mission Lighthouse, Fun Fact- It is also located exactly halfway between the equator and the north pole 

While visiting an old insane asylum is not on everyone’s bucket list, it may be on yours. While most have a dark history, the history and architecture of this one is special. The founder Dr. Munson believed that all his patients should feel like they are at home instead of trapped in an unfamiliar place. Tours are available

If you happen to be in Traverse City during cherry season, go cherry picking at Rennies Orchards

Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park is another impressive spot to hang out on the beach, grab your tent and have a lovely picnic and watch the sunset. Nothing can beat those days. 

Sunset at Keith J Charters State Park in Traverse City

Best Places to Eat in Traverse City 

Breakfast 

  • Rounds – classic mom and pop shop with country style breakfasts
  • Randys Diner– local favorite 
  • Sparkys– for a good ole hashbrown and eggs 
  • Bubbas-perfect for breakfast and lunch , cannot get enough of this place 

Lunch

  • The Cove Restaurant– lakeside dining experience with views of the Grand Traverse Bay 
  • Red Spire Brunch House–  hearty and savory, and lots of variety
  • Bubbas– again… perfect for breakfast and lunch , cannot get enough of this place 
  • Aeries– very very upscale restaurant, ideal for a sunday brunch

Dinner

  • Apache Trout Grill– more formal, classy dining place with waterfront dining serving steaks 
  • Firefly – casual and sushi for the win 
  • Slate Steakhouse– pricey italian food and steak
  • Pepe Nero– for southern italian cuisine and a happy stomach 

Dessert

Best Places to Stay in Traverse City

  • Boathouse on the Bay : Spend your evening in style at this elegant waterfront restaurant and inn.
  • Bayshore Resort:  hotel with a pool, within a manageable walking distance to the downtown area if you have a kid. Can get expensive 
  • The Comfort Inn– The Comfort Inn is honestly a pretty happy middle ground, they’re close enough to downtown and they have a pool, but they don’t charge anything outrageous and are one of the cleanest hotels in town. They are also a platinum award winner within the brand, which is a big deal, they keep a very clean shop so to speak.
  • Grand and Sugar Beach Resort– further from the downtown area, but easy access to the TART bike path which greatly reduces travel time. It’s a pretty cool experience to travel the “secret” path through town.  
  • Camping at Traverse City State Park -we camp at the TC State Park occasionally and use the TART trail as fast and easy transportation around town. Its a really neat way to save time and spend less time in the car and more time exploring
TART trail- via Suttons Bay Chamber of Commerce

The TART connects you to:

  • Resorts, shops, and restaurants
  • Recreation areas including Reffitt Nature Preserve and several City Parks including Clinch Park Marina and Beach
  • Other trails including Boardman Lake Trail, Three Mile Trail, and the Leelanau Trail
  • Downtown Traverse City
  • Local neighborhoods
  • Several bike shops
  • The State Park campground

Conclusion

Our incredible spring break road trip from Chicago to Traverse City comes to an end, leaving behind a trail of unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or both, this journey has offered a perfect blend of experiences. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the serene shores of Traverse City, each destination has added its own unique charm to this unforgettable adventure. Best of luck on your trip and hopefully you can visit here again some time and make the most out of this road trip just as I have.  

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