All About Traverse City Michigan

There is a city in the northern portion of Michigan in Grand Traverse County, called Traverse City. It is a place that many people visit during the spring and summer months. Located in Leelanau County, it is the largest of all the cities that are currently in the northern Michigan region. Despite this designation, it only has a population of about 15,000 people. It is well-known for the tart cherries that it produces and its National Cherry Festival. This is one of the many reasons that people travel to Traverse City during the first week of July, attracting over half a million people annually. Here is an overview of this city in Michigan, along with some of the top businesses and events that occur there regularly.

A Brief History Of Traverse City

Located on a latitude very similar to Salem, Oregon, this is a region that has very distinct seasons. It's proximity to Lake Michigan can also lead to significant changes such as lake effect snow, which is why many people prefer to visit during the spring and summer. It was the Ojibwe and Ottawa tribes that first inhabited this area, before European colonization. The colonists came through the Grand Traverse Bay, subsequently settling the city courtesy of the railroad and massive immigration coming from the east. Today, we have a bustling community which is well-known for its businesses and local events.

Top Businesses In Traverse City Michigan

The economy of Traverse City is based upon three or four major industries. The Munson Medical Center is the top employer, providing healthcare for those that live in the area. Next is the educational system, complete with both public schools and a college. There is also the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa that many people go to regularly. Of interest is the Interlochen Center for the Arts, a nonprofit corporation that is designed for students that would like higher education. These are just a few of the many businesses that are part of the local economy, but the economy is also greatly stimulated because of the events that attract tourists every year.

Top Events In Traverse City Michigan

The top events in this city are known as the National Cherry Festival, a week-long event that begins in the first week of July. As mentioned before, over half a million people come annually. This area of Michigan is known for being the largest producer of what is called tart cherries. In addition to this, people also come to take part in the grapes and wine that is produced in this region. There are many other natural attractions which will include the beaches, forests, vineyards, and the downhill skiing areas which are very popular during the winter.

This brief overview of Traverse City Michigan may motivate you to consider visiting this region during the summer. If you happen to go during July, you can take part in the National Cherry Festival. There are also boating activities, and places that you can visit including orchards and the many businesses that are there. It is a beautiful community, one that you should consider seeing at least once to fully experience why so many people recommend this location in northern Michigan.