🇺🇸 Traverse City – Why Didn’t I Discover You Sooner?

I visited Traverse City briefly four years ago but only stayed a day and didn’t get to explore properly. It was so hot back then I didn’t even climb Sleeping Bear Dunes! This time, everything aligned perfectly – three full days to experience it all. 🌊🏜️ 🍷 Wineries on the Peninsula Drove along the peninsula stopping at vineyards, mesmerized by the lake views. Tried five wineries – Mari Vineyard was my favorite for its scenery, vibe, and wine! 🍇🥂 🐻 Sleeping Bear Dunes This spot really depends on luck with the weather – too hot or cold and it’s not climbable. I went on a perfect day – around 20°C, cloudy after rain. Went barefoot and made it to post #18! Round trip took about two hours. I almost didn’t want to leave, fearing I’d never get weather this good again 😅 But hey – beyond the dunes, the great lakes await! Stopped after an hour though – it’s a workout! 💪 🍔 Food Highlights Lakeside restaurants like Apache Trout Grill are more about the view than the food 🐟📸 (The fish was bland and oily, but the scenery is gorgeous – ironically I picked the same place four years ago 😂) Highly recommend La Becasse Restaurant in Maple City 🍴🇫🇷 A French fine-dining spot deep in the woods (yes, really!) – no signal but amazing food. Been here four years apart, and it’s still thriving! Also, don’t miss the Northern Michigan specialty: Smoked Whitefish Dip 🐟 It’s salty everywhere, but totally worth trying! 🍺 Local Breweries Tried a few cideries and breweries – none beat the non-alcoholic apple cider 😅 🧁 Grand Traverse Pie Company Cozy vibe + freshly baked pies! As a Chinese person, my gold standard for Western desserts is: "It’s not too sweet!" ✅😂 🛍️ Shopping in Downtown Traverse Surprisingly fun to explore – stylish crowds, lively atmosphere, and very… white 😂👌 #SleepingBearDunes #PureMichigan #TraverseCity #GreatLakes #WineTasting #TravelMI