Pie and Pinot: A Delicious Journey Through Traverse City, Michigan

by Andrea Guthmann

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay, Traverse City is a Midwestern treasure, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, culinary delights and a thriving wine scene. Known as the Cherry Capital of the World, Traverse City is not only the largest producer of tart cherries in the United States, but also home to a wine region that has earned national acclaim. With rolling vineyards, picturesque landscapes and a deep-rooted agricultural heritage, Traverse City is a destination that invites visitors to savor the best of Michigan’s bounty. And its cool lakefront breezes
are a welcome escape from the heat and humidity of Louisiana.

Cherry Capital of the World

Traverse City likes to call itself the Cherry Capital of the World. In fact, the city is so identified with cherries that its airport is named Cherry Capital Airport. The region’s ideal climate, with cool winters and summers moderated by Lake Michigan, creates the perfect conditions for cherry orchards to thrive. Each year, the area produces over 70% of the nation’s tart cherries, used in everything from pies and preserves to juices and craft beers. Many of those items can be found at Cherry Republic, where some 200 cherry products are sold. Another necessary stop in Traverse City is Grand Traverse Pie Company to grab a slice of cherry crumb pie.

Since 1925, Traverse City has hosted the National Cherry Festival, where visitors compete in everything from cherry pie eating to cherry pit spitting contests. Held in early July, it’s a week-long extravaganza featuring parades, live music and an abundance of cherry-themed treats, a testament to the region’s agricultural heritage and ability to turn a simple fruit into a cultural phenomenon.

A Wine Lover’s Paradise

In addition to an abundance of cherries, the Traverse City region is home to dozens of wineries along the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsula, two narrow strips of land extending into Lake Michigan. Traverse City winemakers are best known for their Rieslings, but they are experimenting with other varieties, including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer.
Visitors can meander along scenic wine trails and stop at family-owned wineries to sample their offerings. Many wineries also offer gourmet food pairings, outdoor concerts and seasonal events, making them destinations in their own right.

Some wineries provide lodging, such as Black Star Farms, a rural retreat with vineyards, horses, a tasting room and restaurant. A grand brick mansion has been converted into a 10-room inn, where stays include a gourmet breakfast and nightly hospitality hour featuring a selection of Black Star Farms wines and appetizers.

A Culinary Destination

Traverse City’s fertile soil and abundant freshwater resources provide an abundance of fresh ingredients, from cherries and apples to whitefish and artisanal cheeses. Local chefs take full advantage of this bounty, creating farm-to-table dishes that highlight the flavors of northern Michigan. Located in Traverse City’s thriving downtown, Amical is a longtime favorite serving American and Mediterranean-inspired fare. While downtown, take time to explore the many independently owned shops and bookstores. If looking for lodging within walking distance of downtown, the Delamar Hotel is a great choice. Overlooking Grand Traverse Bay, it has a private beach, indoor and outdoor pools, and complimentary shuttle service to nearby attractions.

Exploring the Great Outdoors

Traverse City is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The region’s pristine beaches, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes provide endless opportunities for recreation. In the summer, visitors can kayak along the Boardman River, dare to climb the infamous 284-foot tall dune at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or simply relax on the shores of Lake Michigan.
A Destination to Savor

Traverse City is a place where the land and lake come together to create something truly special. It’s a destination where you can sip a glass of award-winning Riesling while gazing out over rolling vineyards, bite into a slice of cherry pie made with fruit picked just miles away and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cooler temperatures of northern Michigan. Whether you’re a foodie, a wine enthusiast or nature lover, you’ll find something to appreciate.