6 Reasons to Visit Traverse City, Michigan, in Early 2023

Foodies and wine enthusiasts looking for their next culinary destination should consider adding Michigan’s Traverse City to the list. This city lies at the end of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula along Lake Michigan and offers visitors a wide variety of culinary, wine and beer options. Here are six reasons to visit this city in early 2023:

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Adventure Dining

This unique concept allows visitors to enjoy some of the best drink pairings with outdoor adventures. Go kayaking or paddleboarding on Grand Traverse Bay while sipping on some Left Fin IPA from Middle Coast Brewing. Or pair a sour beer from Right Brain Brewery with a bike adventure on Boardman Lake Loop, part of the TART Trail. Adventure Dining also includes grabbing a Quick Decision IPA from Earthen Ales before hiking the trails at Grand Traverse Commons. Kayak, Bike & Brew even offers a snowshoe and winter bike trails tour, pairing popular breweries with local bike and snowshoe trails.

Modern Bird

At this upscale restaurant, enjoy elevated classics and modern dishes, from wagyu Coulotte to cod to venison. Cocktails include a traditional gin and tonic; and a martini paradisi, with pisco, clarified citrus jus, aged orange liquor and winter citrus bitters.

The Mill

Expected to open this spring, this upscale café lies within a restored 1897 grist mill. A visit to this new space promises views of Crystal River off the shores of Lake Michigan.

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Suds and Snow

On March 4, this party in the woods features craft brews and cider, wine, music and food from local vendors. The event offers visitors the chance to try different drinks and foods from the city, as well as explore the trails around Tiber Ridge.

Chateau Chantal

Be sure to schedule a cooking class at Chateau Chantal, a vineyard, winery and bed and breakfast. The property’s popular cooking classes continue into 2023. Chateau Chantal recently released its 2023 cooking class calendar, with many classes focusing on various types of European cuisines, from fresh pastas to raclette.

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Black Star Farms

This family-owned estate features a vineyard, inn, seasonal café, equestrian facility, hiking trails and an award-winning winery. This winery offers wine and food tastings, in which guests venture through various stops at the winery and sample different wines and dishes.