Spa Packages

You won't find many spa resort packages in Michigan with a more spectacular setting. Merge your spa experience with a northern Michigan wine tour or escape to our private Beach Club situated on East Grand Traverse Bay. Whether you choose to stay on-property or venture out to explore the greater Traverse City region, you’ll find a myriad of activities in an unforgettable region.

VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Bonobo Winery - January 24-26, 2020

Available on select weekends, our VIP Spa & Wine Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends. Spa Grand Traverse and Bonobo will be teaming up to deliver this package on the following days:
January 24-26, 2020

STARTING AT $361 PER PERSON* IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412 PER PERSON* IN THE TOWER
Package includes:

        2 Nights Accommodations
        2 Breakfast Buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro
        VIP Ticket to Bonobo Winery for Bonobo wine tasting and tour with wine education
        Insulated wine tumbler
20% off Spa coupon for a 2nd treatment valued at $110 or more
        1 of the spa treatments below per person:50-minute Relaxation Massage
- 50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
- 50-minute Mother to Be Massage
- Breathe Body Buff
- Ambre Infused Body Glow
- Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
- Refreshing Organic Facial
- Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
- Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
- Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
Tour description:
Enjoy a visit to Bonobo Winery where you'll have a VIP expedience that will encompass all 5 senses. You'll begin with a tasting of Bonobo wines paired artfully with our in-house-made small plates, followed by a tour led by owner Todd Ooosterhouse. On your way out you'll receive a Bonobo Glass to take home with you to remember your visit. We look forward to having you in to see us here at Bonobo!

For reservations, call 800-236-1577.

*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply. Must be at least 21 years of age. Package includes transportation to and from Bonobo Winery. Package not available in 2 or 3 bedroom condos. Larger groups may contact their own transportation.

Shuttle leaves lobby at 11:30 a.m., returning to Resort by 2:30 p.m.
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VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Bowers Harbor Vineyards - February 7-8, 2020

Available on select weekends, our VIP Wine and Spa Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends looking to experience Traverse City's award-winning wine scene. Our team from Spa Grand Traverse is partnering with the team from Bowers Harbor Vineyards to offer a truly unique wine experience February 7-8, 2020.
February 7-8, 2020
STARTING AT $361* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412* PER PERSON IN THE TOWER
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfast buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 additional for Sunday brunch per person)
- VIP Saturday Wine Tour Ticket to Bowers Harbor Vineyards (12:00p.m. - 2:00p.m.) includes wine tasting and wine education
- Insulated wine tumbler
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50-minute Relaxation Massage
  50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
  50-minute Mother to Be Massage
  Breathe Body Buff
  Ambre Infused Body Glow
  Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  Refreshing Organic Facial
  Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
  Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
ABOUT BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARDS
Tour description:
You will be welcomed to Bowers Harbor Vineyards with Brix Bubbly to toast the beautiful views of snowy vines and Lake Michigan’s Bowers Harbor! Enjoy a brief description of our vineyards and our hand painted mural timeline explaining our 28-year history. Next, we will walk over to our proprietor’s home to her private cellar. You will be able to explore our collection of wines starting from the first year we opened our tasting room in 1992. We will serve you cheese boards and handmade spreads while we pour you some our most popular and awarded wines. This special tour will include a comparative “vertical” tasting of one of the wines we have aged to perfection, alongside our newest version of the same wine. To top off your experience at Bowers Harbor Vineyards, we will serve you warm apple crisp with our limited production Appletage dessert wine. You will have time to browse through our gift shop and take home some of your favorite bottles and souvenirs, with a 10% discount on all purchases! Taste, learn, enjoy!

bowersharbor.com
Please call 231-534-6000 for reservations.

*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. Not valid with holiday brunches. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply. Must be at least 21 years of age. Package includes transportation to and from Bowers Harbor Vineyards. The shuttle leaves our lobby at 11:30 a.m. and returns to the Resort by 2:30 p.m.
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VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Rove Estate - March 27-28, 2020

Available on select weekends, our VIP Wine and Spa Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends looking to experience Traverse City's award-winning wine scene. Our team from Spa Grand Traverse is partnering with the team from Rove Estate Winery to offer a truly unique wine experience March 27-28, 2020.
October 18-19, 2020 (SOLD OUT)
STARTING AT $407* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $458* PER PERSON IN THE TOWER
March 27-28, 2020
STARTING AT $361* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412* PER PERSON IN THE TOWER
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfast buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 upcharge for Sunday brunch per person)
- VIP Saturday Wine Tour Ticket to Rove Estate Winery (11:30a.m. - 2:30p.m.) includes wine tasting paired with light food, vineyards history, and wine education
- Insulated wine tumbler
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50-minute Relaxation Massage
  50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
  50-minute Mother to Be Massage
  Breathe Body Buff
  Ambre Infused Body Glow
  Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  Refreshing Organic Facial
  Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
  Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
ABOUT ROVE ESTATE WINERY
It's only from the highest point on the Leelanau Peninsula that one can truly appreciate the breathtaking beauty that is the Traverse Wine Coast. Join them in celebrating our rich Irish heritage and 5th generation farming legacy through an overview of the story of the "Irish Wine geese" and their multi-generational farm. Then, while overlooking the rolling vineyard , you will taste our award-winning wines while they will discuss the art of food and wine pairing, with an emphasis on local food choices. Come thirsty for knowledge, fun, and leave with wine to share with your nearest and dearest. The spirit of Rove will create a lasting memory.
roveestate.com
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.

*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. Not valid with holiday brunches. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply. Must be at least 21 years of age. Package includes transportation to and from Rove Estate Winery. The shuttle leaves our lobby at 11:30 a.m. and returns to the Resort by 2:30 p.m.
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VIP Wine & Spa with Black Star Farms - April 10-11, 2020.

Available on select weekends, our VIP Wine & Spa Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends. Spa Grand Traverse and Black Star Farms will be teaming up to deliver this package on November 15-17, 2019 and April 10-11, 2020.
Offer available November 15-17, 2019.
STARTING AT $361* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412* PER PERSON IN THE TOWER
Offer available April 10-11, 2020
STARTING AT $361* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412* PER PERSON IN THE TOWER
Package includes:
2 Nights Accommodations
2 Breakfast Buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro
VIP Ticket to Blackstar Farms wine tasting and tour with wine education
Insulated wine tumbler
20% off Spa coupon for a 2nd treatment valued at $110 or more
1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50-minute Relaxation Massage
- 50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
- 50-minute Mother to Be Massage
- Breathe Body Buff
- Ambre Infused Body Glow
- Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
- Refreshing Organic Facial
- Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
- Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
- Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
Black Star Farms Tour description:
Go behind the scenes and experience Black Star Farms! A guided walking tour will take you through the breathtaking property including exclusive Inn, centennial barn, vineyard, and wine cave while learning the history of the gorgeous 160 acre estate. While in the estate vineyard you will learn about the incredible journey from grape to glass. Your tour concludes with a tasting (souvenir glass included) of five award-winning wines, accompanied by light snacks.
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.
*If buffet is not available, they can order breakfast of the menu for equal or lesser value. The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. Not valid with holiday brunches. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply. Must be at least 21 years of age. Blackout dates apply and are subject to change. One (1) cocktail per adult.
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VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Chateau Chantal May 8-10, 2020

Available on select weekends, our VIP Wine & Spa Weekend is a perfect getaway for couples and friends. Spa Grand Traverse and Chateau Chantal will be teaming up to deliver this package on December 6-8, 2019 & May 8-10, 2020.

December 6-8, 2019

STARTING AT $361 PER PERSON* IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $412 PER PERSON* IN THE TOWER

May 8-10, 2020.

STARTING AT $384 PER PERSON* IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $435 PER PERSON* IN THE TOWER

Package includes:

2 Nights Accommodations
2 Breakfast Buffets at Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 upcharge for Sunday brunch per person)
VIP Ticket to Chateau Chantal (Saturday 11:30a.m. - 2:30p.m..)* for Chateau Chantal tasting paired with light food, complete with history and wine education
20% off Spa coupon for a 2nd treatment valued at $110 or more
1 of the spa treatments below per person:

50-minute Relaxation Massage
50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
50-minute Mother to Be Massage
Breathe Body Buff
Ambre Infused Body Glow
Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
Refreshing Organic Facial
Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance

Chateau Chantal Tour Description:

A tour at Chateau Chantal includes a personal history of the founders, information on the Old Mission Peninsula as a wine making region, what makes winemaking unique here at Chateau Chantal, a tour of the cellar and winemaking equipment and tasting of our award winning wines. Set high on a ridge with panoramic views of East & West Grand Traverse Bays, Chateau Chantal farms 100 acres of vinifera vines to produce a multitude of wine styles.

For reservations, call 800-236-1577.

*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. Not valid with holiday brunches. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply. Must be at least 21 years of age.
Package includes transportation to and from Chateau Chantal.

For am tour, shuttle leaves lobby at 11:30 a.m., returning to Resort by 2:30 p.m.

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2-Night Relax and Recharge Package - Midweek

Our 2 night Relax & Recharge package includes:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfasts per person in Sweetwater American Bistro
- 2 Spa treatments per person from the list below:
- - 50-minute Relaxation Massage
  - 50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
  - 50-minute Mother to Be Massage
  - Breathe Body Buff
  - Ambre Infused Body Glow
  - Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
  - Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
Winter Season: November 4 - April 17, 2020
Starting at $428* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $482* per person in the Tower
Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020
Starting at $454* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $508* per person in the Tower
Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020
Starting at $536* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $607* per person in the Tower
Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020
Starting at $478* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $545* per person in the Tower
For reservations, call 800 236-1577.
*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Spa appointments must be made in advance. Above pricing includes a 20% spa gratuity. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. May not be combined with other offers. Brunch not valid on holidays. Certain other restrictions may apply.
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2-Night Relax and Recharge Package - Weekend

Our 2 night Relax & Recharge package includes:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfasts per person in Sweetwater American Bistro ($10 upcharge for Sunday Brunch per person)* If buffet is not available, breakfast can be ordered off of the menu if equal or lesser value
- 2 Spa treatments per person from the list below:
- - 50-minute Relaxation Massage
  - 50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
  - 50-minute Mother to Be Massage
  - Breathe Body Buff
  - Ambre Infused Body Glow
  - Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
  - Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
Winter Season: November 4 - April 17, 2020
Starting at $459* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $513* per person in the Tower
Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020
Starting at $484* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $539* per person in the Tower
Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020
Starting at $567* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $638* per person in the Tower
Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020
Starting at $509* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $575* per person in the Tower
For reservations, call 800 236-1577.
*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Spa appointments must be made in advance. Above pricing includes a 20% spa gratuity. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply.
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1-Night Renewal Spa Package - Midweek

Our 1-night Spa Renewal package includes:
- 1 Night accommodations
- 1 Breakfast per person in Sweetwater American Bistro (If buffet is not available, breakfast off the menu for equal or lesser value can be ordered) Not valid with holiday brunches.
- 1 Spa treatment per person from the list below:
- 50-minute Relaxation Massage
  50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
  50-minute Mother to Be Massage
  Breathe Body Buff
  Ambre Infused Body Glow
  Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  Refreshing Organic Facial
  Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
  Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
Winter Season: November 4 - April 17, 2020
Starting at $220* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $249* per person in the Tower
Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020
Starting at $233* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $262* per person in the Tower
Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020
Starting at $276* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $314* per person in the Tower
Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020
Starting at $246* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $267* per person in the Tower
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.
*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee.Spa appointments must be made in advance. Above pricing includes a 20% spa gratuity. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply.
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1-Night Renewal Spa Package - Weekend

Our 1-night Spa Renewal package includes:
- 1 Night accommodations
- 1 Breakfast per person in Sweetwater American Bistro
- 1 Spa treatment per person from the list below:
- - 50-minute Relaxation Massage
  - 50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
  - 50-minute Mother to Be Massage
  - Breathe Body Buff
  - Ambre Infused Body Glow
  - Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
  - Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
Winter Season: November 4 - April 17, 2020
Starting at $236* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $264* per person in the Tower
Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020
Starting at $249* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $278* per person in the Tower
Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020
Starting at $292* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $330* per person in the Tower
Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020
Starting at $262* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $298* per person in the Tower
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.
*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Spa appointments must be made in advance. Above pricing includes a 20% spa gratuity. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not valid with holiday brunches. Not available to groups. May not be combined with other offers. Certain other restrictions may apply.
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2-Night Golf and Spa Package

Our Golf and Spa Package includes:
- 2 Nights accommodations
- 2 Breakfast buffets per person at Sweetwater American Bistro
- 1 Round of golf per person on any of our golf courses
- 1 Bucket of range balls per person
- 1 Spa treatments per person from the list below:*
- 50-minute Relaxation Massage
- 50-minute Just the Two of Us Massage
- 50-minute Mother to Be Massage
- Breathe Body Buff
- Ambre Infused Body Glow
- Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
- Refreshing Organic Facial
- Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
- Spa Grand Traverse Customized Manicure & Pedicure
- Men’s Hand & Foot Maintenance
*Spa appointments must be made in advance. Package rates include 20% Spa gratuity. Additional gratuities may be added at guest discretion.
Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020
Midweek package starting at $592*
Weekend package starting at $632*
Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020
Midweek package starting at $771*
Weekend package starting at $813*
Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020
Midweek package starting at $436*
Weekend package starting at $460*
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.
*The above rates are per person, based on double occupancy. The above pricing includes 11% tax and $16.95 nightly resort fee. Rooms at this rate are limited. Not available to groups. May not be combined with other offers. Not valid with holiday brunches. Certain other restrictions may apply.
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Upcoming Events

Select Saturdays

Visit with Santa

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December 25

Christmas Day Buffet

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Novalash Special

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December 31

New Year's Eve

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February 7-9, 2020

Bowers Harbor VIP Wine and Spa Weekend

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December 31

New Year’s Eve 2020 - Turtle Creek Casino

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January 3-18

Tricks Against Humanity - Turtle Creek Casino

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Winter Spa Deals

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Holiday Activities

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March 27-28, 2020

Rove Estate VIP Wine & Spa Weekend

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Wednesdays 4:00-6:00pm

Happy Hour at Spa Grand Traverse

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Barefoot Magazine

Destination Relaxation

For five years, Spa Grand Traverse Director Dawn Olsen thought about the changes she wanted to make to the resort’s 7,000-square-foot spa and salon.

By Cymbre Foster

Renovated Spa Grand Traverse is a serene have for guests. For five years, Spa Grand Traverse Director Dawn Olsen thought about the changes she wanted to make to the resort’s 7,000-square-foot spa and salon.
It had been 12 years since there had been any major renovations, and she knew it was time for a transformation. “I’ve thought a lot about what a guest wants,” says Olsen, who has been Spa director for six years. Ultimately, her goal was to create a space with even more benefits for guests. The long-awaited facelift to the two-story spa became a reality in February 2018. Olsen, her staff, and guests couldn’t be happier with the outcome that includes improvements to traffic flow and increased privacy and serenity. The new space is also fresh and inviting — from updates to the lobby and 23 treatment rooms to makeovers of the reception area and décor.

“It’s just much more modern,” Olsen says. “For me, it’s now a more serene spa environment, and the spa aesthetic has changed dramatically.”

Her favorite addition is the noise barrier that was installed between the reception area and the rest of the spa, because it immediately created a more relaxed environment.
“I love the wall that we built in the reception area,” she says. “It really makes it much more conducive to guests as well as giving it a much more updated appearance.

“There’s also a better flow for relaxation purposes". They can no longer hear the phone ring or hear us greeting other guests. We also moved the upstairs waiting area away from the facial rooms, again, to diminish the noise levels while guests are in treatment.”

Adding to the serenity is a change-up in the color scheme and the addition of an updated, modern finish with new furnishings and artwork. “The color palette is more relaxing, and we also changed the furniture,” Olsen says. “We ended up repainting all of the cherry wood throughout the spa with a more up-to-date paint color. Ultimately, we made small aesthetic changes that created a fresh space for our guests.” The renovations, which took two months to complete, are more than skin deep.

“I think our local guests love to see us reinvesting in the business and keeping up with the times,” she says. “Overall the resounding response is that they love the new setup.”

The staff is also thrilled with the new space, she adds.

“The team absolutely loves the new fresh space,” Olsen says. “We all feel very proud of our current work environment and feel that it offers a more modern approach to our goal of relaxation.”
New Look for Iconic Governors' Hall

Premier gathering space undergoes $1.5 million renovation

By Brian McGillivary

Governors’ Hall at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa has hosted hundreds of stellar events over the years. Now it enters its fourth decade with a $1.5 million renovation.

The ballroom at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa had a stately and august air that never revealed its age. Still, after three decades, it was time to shake off the old and make a splash. Governors’ Hall, named after the convention that led to its construction, underwent a $1.5 million renovation in 2018 and now sports a look that celebrates the waters of Northern Michigan, says Ryan Buck, Grand Traverse Resort and Spa Director of Sales. “It’s a total transformation, which is incredibly exciting for everybody,” Buck says.

The makeover included new lighting, audio, wall coverings, flooring, ceilings, and furniture. The warm blue and gray color scheme depicts water interacting with the elements in nature.
“It’s neutral enough that a group can come in and really make it their own without having issues,” Buck says. “But it definitely will feel like Northern Michigan. It’s going to be a very exciting, but calming, space for our guests.”

The makeover does not alter the original bones of a structure designed for its ease of use and ability to accommodate a wide array of events. It can be used as a theater for 2,300 people, an elegant dinner setting for 1,500, or to even host a cattlemen’s auction. It has a door large enough to truck in a U.S. Coast Guard rescue helicopter.

“Some groups come in and spend a lot of money transforming the space,” Buck says. “Governors’ Hall really cleans up nice.”

A Grand Vision
With 580 rooms and 86,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, the Resort gets little downtime. Technology upgrades to the hall started months in advance, with the major work for the $1.5 million project squeezed into a three-week window.

The short turnaround and attention to detail mirrors the Resort’s actual founding by Paul Nine, a Detroit-area attorney. “Our founder had a really great vision for this property and this area,” Buck says. “He envisioned a meeting-focused resort experience operating year-round.”

It was 1980 when Nine decided to build a six-story hotel outside of Traverse City, followed by a signature golf course designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus. He took it even further when, a few years later, he announced plans for a $7 million, 17-story, 186-room tower and a 19,000-square-foot banquet hall just to hold a national governors’ meeting.

The Resort had a lead on hosting the National Governors Association summer meeting, but needed a ballroom and additional rooms, Buck says. The move clinched the 1987 National Governors Association Summer Meeting, chaired by future President of the United States Bill Clinton.

Now, Governors Hall is long established. Its unique setting earns many repeat customers, including a rare return visit by the National Governors Association in 2007.

“We have groups who have been coming here for 30-plus years,” Buck says. “It’s quite extraordinary, and having a great event space makes that happen.”
Reuniting at the Resort

“It’s a beautiful place to reconnect and build close ties to those we love in one of the most spectacular places in Michigan.”
—Lori, Leaver family reunion

By Jillian Manning // Photography by Megan Renae Studios

In the early 1980s — when wineries were few and far between and the State Theatre was enjoying its original heyday — the Leaver family held their first family reunion in Traverse City. Ross and Kathryn Leaver’s four daughters had growing families of their own, and the reunion was a chance to gather the children and grandchildren together for a weekend of fun.

Fast-forward nearly four decades, and the Leavers now boast more than 50 family members, including four generations that stretch from ages 1 to 87. Although the family is spread throughout the country, the beauty and tranquility of Northern Michigan draws them back to Traverse City every few years. For the last three reunions, they have returned to Grand Traverse Resort and Spa to celebrate.

“The Resort is the perfect place for us to stay for our reunion,” says Lori, whose family lives a few hours south in Midland. “My adult children agree that this year was one of our best vacations ever. “It’s a beautiful place to reconnect and build close ties to those we love in one of the most spectacular places in Michigan.”

On a July weekend this past summer, 28 Leavers arrived at the Resort for a welcome reception in one of the Valleyview condominiums. Shouts of greeting chorused from the balcony, and hugs and headlocks were doled out in equal measure. Lynda, one of the original Leaver daughters who started the reunion tradition, smiled as she thought about how her family has expanded. “It’s a joy to see the spouses and little ones joining the family,” she says. “I can’t believe how much things have changed.”

The Resort’s wide array of lodging opportunities and amenities appeals to Leaver families of all sizes, from couples staying in the Tower to larger groups spread among the condos. Those with young children, like Ryan and Maigan, parents to a 4-year-old son and 1-year-old daughter, especially love the family-friendly atmosphere.

“They may be too young to fully appreciate dinner with their aunts and uncles, but they’re definitely not too young to appreciate the pool,” Maigan says, laughing. “They stayed in until they were both pruney. And they were so excited to visit the toy store in the lobby.

“Grandma let each kid pick out a toy, so Hunter got a giant brachiosaurus and Hannah immediately spotted a colorful caterpillar.”

All Smiles
Once the greetings had been shared, what’s new had given way to remember when and photographer Meg Bowen of Megan Renae Studios sprang into action. Family photos are a must-have for each reunion, though it’s nearly impossible to convince this crew to keep straight faces.

“It’s so great to be able to see my cousins that I grew up with as adults and have relationships with them,” says Kristen, one of the 14 Leaver cousins. “Every time I’m with all the cousins, my sides are in stitches from the laughter — I feel like I did a thousand sit-ups and my face hurts from all the smiling.” The next 48 hours of the reunion weekend plowed ahead at full steam. Family time with the Leavers is packed with adventure, from swimming in Grand Traverse Bay to a highly competitive “jarts” tournament, a vintage lawn game that inevitably brings out the family’s cheerleaders and trash talkers. Jesse, the 22-year-old runner-up of the 2018 games, nearly lost to two of his great uncles during the tournament. But in the end, beginner’s luck triumphed.

“This was my first year playing, and they definitely have more experience than I do. I don’t want to lose my title, so I’ll have to practice before the next reunion,” he joked.

Breakfasts were shared at Sweetwater American Bistro, and several couples headed 16 floors up in the Resort’s Tower to enjoy dinner at Aerie Restaurant & Lounge. “The out-of-town families are always stunned by the view,” says Ralph, who lives in Traverse City and loves to bring visitors to Aerie. “The food is excellent and creative, and you can’t beat the sunset over the bay.”

Out and About
For the Leavers, another part of the beauty of the visit is the chance to explore the Traverse City area. That includes scenic morning drives along the Leelanau Peninsula or tours of the old state hospital inside the Village at Grand Traverse Commons.

“Visiting the state hospital was awesome,” says Josh, who as a lover of history and ghost stories found the old buildings and sprawling grounds fascinating. “It was so cool to learn about the area and the history.”

In fact, Traverse City has become so beloved to the family that a growing number of them now call it home all year round. “I’m so grateful we can gather our family here,” says Eric, who moved to Traverse City in the early 1990s. “Year after year, we continue to enjoy Traverse City with a family that appreciates the natural beauty in our area. It’s important to us to be able to share this special place with the younger generations.”

Multiple generations come together for the Leaver family reunion, made easy with the variety of family-friendly accommodations available at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa and the diverse array of activities and attractions on-site and around the Grand Traverse area.

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Spa Packages

VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Bonobo Winery - January 24-26, 2020

VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Bowers Harbor Vineyards - February 7-8, 2020

VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Rove Estate - March 27-28, 2020

VIP Wine & Spa with Black Star Farms - April 10-11, 2020.

VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Chateau Chantal May 8-10, 2020

2-Night Relax and Recharge Package - Midweek

Winter Season: November 4 - April 17, 2020

Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020

Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020

Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020

2-Night Relax and Recharge Package - Weekend

Winter Season: November 4 - April 17, 2020

Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020

Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020

Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020

1-Night Renewal Spa Package - Midweek

Winter Season: November 4 - April 17, 2020

Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020

Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020

Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020

1-Night Renewal Spa Package - Weekend

Winter Season: November 4 - April 17, 2020

Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020

Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020

Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020

2-Night Golf and Spa Package

Spring Season: April 18 - May 21, 2020

Summer Season: May 22 - September 5, 2020

Fall Season: September 6 - November 7, 2020

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Reuniting at the Resort

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