Four-Day Traverse City Itinerary - Pet-Friendly Rental and Activities

  1. Day 1: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    35 minutes (26 miles) from Traverse City

    Start your trip off with a visit to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Take your furry friend to the designated pet-friendly areas of the beach and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Take a hike on one of the trails and enjoy picturesque views of the shoreline. Finish the day with a picnic at one of the many picnic areas with a view of Lake Michigan.

  2. Day 2: Grand Traverse Bay
    15 minutes (5 miles) from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

    Time to hit the beach again! Take a stroll around the bay with your pet or rent a kayak to explore the waters of the bay. Stop at one of the many pet-friendly restaurants for lunch or grab a pint at the local brewery. In the evening, head to the Traverse City State Theatre for a movie.

  3. Day 3: Old Mission Peninsula
    20 minutes (10.7 miles) from Grand Traverse Bay

    Take a scenic drive down Old Mission Peninsula and visit some of the local wineries. Many wineries in the area are pet-friendly, so bring your furry friend along. Stop at one of the many orchards and pick cherries or apples. Finish the day with a visit to the Mission Point Lighthouse and take in the beautiful views of Grand Traverse Bay.

  4. Day 4: Downtown Traverse City
    20 minutes (10.6 miles) from Old Mission Peninsula

    Spend the day exploring the streets of Downtown Traverse City. Visit the local boutiques or grab a bite to eat at one of the many pet-friendly restaurants. Take a stroll through the farmer's market or visit the Great Lakes Children's Museum. Finish the day by walking along the bay and watching the sunset over West Bay.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (4-6 hours, free)
  • Grand Traverse Bay (4-6 hours, kayak rental $35/day)
  • Old Mission Peninsula (4-6 hours, wine tasting $15/person)
  • Downtown Traverse City (4-6 hours, expenses vary depending on activities and meals chosen)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $50-$60/day/person (not including accommodations)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting nearby towns such as Suttons Bay or Leland. If you have less time, consider skipping Old Mission Peninsula or Downtown Traverse City. Make sure to check opening and closing times for each location to ensure they are open during your visit.

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