Traverse City, MI: 4-Day Lakeside Adventure with Rodeo Experience

Day 1: Downtown Discovery

Traverse City, MI on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Omelette Shoppe

Kick off your day with a delicious omelette made with fresh, local ingredients at this favorite breakfast spot.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Traverse City State Park Beaches

Enjoy a morning walk along the sandy shores of Grand Traverse Bay and take in the beautiful lake views.
USD8 parking, 2h

11:30am

Explore Downtown Traverse City

Browse unique boutiques and art galleries while soaking in the vibrant and charming downtown atmosphere.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Cooks' House

Savor farm-to-table cuisine highlighting local produce and flavors in an intimate dining setting.
USD25, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Village at Grand Traverse Commons

Explore this historic former asylum turned shopping and art space with unique shops and intriguing architecture.
Free, 1h30m

5:30pm

Traverse City Rodeo Experience

Head to a local rodeo event such as the Traverse City Freedom Days Rodeo or check the schedule for other rodeo venues nearby during summer evenings.
USD20-30, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Stella

Enjoy exquisite Italian dishes made with seasonal and local ingredients in a cozy, elegant atmosphere.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Dunes and Nature

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, MI on July 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Patisserie Amie

Start your morning with delectable French pastries and coffee from this cozy bakery.
USD12, 45m

8:30am

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Exploration

Climb the famous dunes, hike scenic trails, and visit overlooks providing spectacular views of Lake Michigan (park open 8:00am-8:00pm).
USD25 per vehicle, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Eagle's Nest

Dine casually with scenic lakeside views while enjoying freshly prepared sandwiches and local specialties.
USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Drive this beautiful 7.4-mile loop featuring multiple designated scenic stops perfect for photos and enjoying nature's beauty.
USD25 park fee included, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Red Ginger

Feast on Asian fusion dishes featuring fresh seafood and bold flavors in downtown Traverse City.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Peninsula and Rodeo

Old Mission Peninsula / Nearby Rodeo, MI on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Towne Plaza

Classic American breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients to energize your day.
USD18, 1h

9:30am

Old Mission Peninsula Scenic Drive

Enjoy a relaxing drive along the peninsula’s scenic roads, taking in the serene lakeside views and pastoral landscapes without winery visits.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mission Table

Experience Detroit-inspired dishes crafted with fresh seasonal produce in a warm, atmospheric setting.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Historic Old Mission Lighthouse Visit

Tour this picturesque lighthouse and learn about its history while enjoying sweeping views of Grand Traverse Bay (open until 4pm).
USD10, 1h

3:30pm

Attend Nearby Rodeo Event

Wrap up your day with a lively rodeo experience at a local or regional venue hosting events this weekend. Confirm exact location and times based on the latest schedule.
USD20-30, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at 7 Monks Taproom

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with craft beers and creative pub fare, embracing local flavors in an inviting brewery ambiance.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Local Exploration

Traverse City, MI on July 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Little Fleet

Enjoy a casual breakfast from a variety of food trucks offering diverse options in a lively outdoor setting.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Dennos Museum Center

Explore contemporary and Inuit art exhibits in this well-curated museum located on the waterfront (open 10:00am-5:00pm).
USD10, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Slabtown Burgers

Satisfy your appetite with juicy burgers and craft beers in a fun, casual atmosphere.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Kayaking on Boardman Lake

Rent a kayak and enjoy peaceful paddling on the clear waters of Boardman Lake with scenic surroundings (rental shops open from 10:00am-6:00pm).
USD30, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Clinch Park

Unwind by the waterfront park featuring picnic areas, walking paths, and playgrounds, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Franklin

Dine on sophisticated American cuisine featuring local ingredients and innovative dishes in an upscale setting.
USD40, 1h30m
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