Spa Packages

You won't find many spa resort packages in Michigan with a more giving region. Merge your spa experience with a northern Michigan wine tour or escape to our private beach club, The Shores, 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 setting.

Winter Spa-Cation with Black Star Farms - January 25-27, 2019

Join us for a relaxing winter weekend with Spa Grand Traverese and Black Star Farms. In addition to a great nights stay this relaxing package includes a Spa Grand Traverse treatment, snowshoe tour with wine tasting, and breakfast buffet all at an exceptionally low rate.
Offer available January 25-27, 2019.
STARTING AT $292* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $326* PER PERSON IN THE TOWER
Package includes:
- 2 Night accommodations
- 2 Breakfast buffet at Sweetwater American Bistro per person (enjoy Sunday brunch for just $10 more per person)*
- 1 Ticket to a Snowshoe Wine Tour on Saturday, 1/26 including transportation* per person. Ticket includes: snowshoe rental, wine tasting walking tour of the vineyards with wine education.
- 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
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Woodland Wellness Body Buff
  - Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Northern Serenity Mani & Pedi Combo
Black Star Farms Snowshoe Tour description:
Upon arrival at Black Star Farms Winery Estate, you will receive a pair of snowshoes and head out on the trails. An invigorating hike will take you through forest, past our cherry orchard, between tall pines and the estate vineyard before coming back to the winery to warm up with a private wine tasting accompanied by light appetizers.

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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Girls Night Out

Join us for a Girls Night Out Getaway! We have great rates available on special dates this January.
In addition to a great nights stay this relaxing package includes a Spa Grand Traverse treatment, cocktail, and breakfast buffet all at an exceptionally low rate.
Offer available January 1-24, 2019.
STARTING AT $175* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $191* PER PERSON IN THE TOWER
Package includes:
- 1 Night accommodations
- 1 Breakfast buffet at Sweetwater American Bistro per person (enjoy Sunday brunch for just $10 more per person)*
- 1 cocktail per adult (must be 21 or older). Valued up to $12 in Aerie Restaurant & Lounge, Jack's, or Lobby Bar-includes gratuity.
- 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
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Woodland Wellness Body Buff
  - Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Northern Serenity Mani & Pedi Combo
For reservations, call 800-236-1577.
*If buffet is not available, guests may order breakfast off 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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2-Night VIP WINE & SPA WEEKEND WITH BONOBO WINERY - April 12-14, 2019

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:
April 12-14, 2019

STARTING AT $368 PER PERSON* IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $408 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
20% off Spa coupon for a 2nd treatment valued at $110 or more
        One Hydro Flask Wine Tumbler per guest
        1 of the spa treatments below per person:
- 50 min Relaxation Massage
- 50 min Just the Two of Us Massage
- 50 min Mother to Be Massage
- Northern Nature Body Glow
- Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
- Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
- Refreshing Organic Facial
- Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
Tour description:
Owned by Oosterhouse brothers Carter and Todd, Bonobo prides itself on representing all things Traverse City in an "entice the senses" experience. Overlooking sweeping vineyards and West Grand Traverse Bay, Bonobo is known for the best views in the area. Its stunning yet cozy interior, top-rated service and impressive artisan-quality wines put Bonobo at the top of the list for area attractions. This private sipping tour of the tasting room and cellar will include history of the winery, commentary on Carter’s design style and inspiration for the layout of the facility, and discussion of the vineyards and varietals. The tour will conclude with a guided tasting and a light food pairing. Each guest will take home a souvenir glass and memory to last a lifetime.

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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2-Night VIP WINE AND SPA WEEKEND with Rove Estate - March 22-24, 2019

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 22-24, 2019.
December 7-9, 2019
STARTING AT $347* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $387* PER PERSON IN THE TOWER
March 22-24, 2019
STARTING AT $347* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $387* 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
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- One Hydro Flask Wine Tumbler per guest
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
  - 50 min Relaxation Massage
  - 50 min Just the Two of Us Massage
  - 50 min Mother to Be Massage
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
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 through an overview of the story of the "Irish Wine geese". 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. This fun and interactive overview will cover the fundamentals and extend down the culinary road less traveled for their featured “Rogue Pairings.” 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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2-Night VIP WINE AND SPA WEEKEND with Bowers Harbor Vineyards - June 7-9, 2019

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 June 7-9, 2019.
June 7-9, 2019
STARTING AT $425* PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $473* 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 Bowers Harbor Vineyards (11:00a.m. - 2:00p.m.) includes wine tasting paired with light food, vineyards history, and wine education
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- One Hydro Flask Wine Tumbler per guest
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
  - 50 min Relaxation Massage
  - 50 min Just the Two of Us Massage
  - 50 min Mother to Be Massage
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
ABOUT BOWERS HARBOR VINEYARDS
February 1-3, 2019 tour description:
We will start by celebrating with bubbles! Enjoy samples of Traditional Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Wine while our wine specialist gives you a brief overview of the Winery, Tasting Room and Vineyard History. Next, we will guide you through a variety of samples of white and red wines, ranging from dry to sweet. Along with your wine tasting, we will have a charcuterie and gourmet cheese board provided by the Boathouse restaurant. During our tasting and food pairings, we will discuss our unique wine-growing conditions, and educate you with interesting viticulture and microclimate trivia. This will be a fun and relaxing time to ask questions and celebrate what our region has to offer. To end your VIP experience, we will take you into our Proprietor’s Cellar for a handmade Chocolate Truffle paired with our most awarded red wine, our 2896 Langley Meritage. Take advantage of seasonal wine discounts and receive a souvenir wine glass to take home with you. Taste, Learn, Enjoy!

June 7-9, 2019 tour description:
Our Vineyard Tour will start with a glass of Traditional Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Wine. While sipping your bubbly, we will give you a brief overview of the Winery, Tasting Room and Vineyard History. We then will walk you through two or more of our estate vineyards, explaining the grape varietals and the stage of growth at that moment in time. Your wine guide will also tell you a brief history of the BHV vineyard blocks, give explanations about our unique wine-growing conditions, and educate you with fun, and perhaps to some exciting, viticulture and micro climate trivia. Your tour ends at outdoor tables overlooking the Langley Vineyard and Lake Michigan’s Bowers Harbor. We will pour some of our most awarded wines and serve them with several food complements such as: local cheese and crackers, our very own peach salsa and tortilla chips, and end with a sweet treat, local strawberry shortcake. Take advantage of seasonal wine discounts and receive a souvenir wine glass to take home with you. Taste, Learn, Enjoy!
bowersharbor.com
This package is not currently available to book online. 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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2-Night VIP WINE AND SPA WEEKEND with L. Mawby Winery - May 10-12, 2019

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 L. Mawby Winery to offer a truly unique experience May 10-12, 2019.
STARTING AT $368 PER PERSON IN THE HOTEL
STARTING AT $408 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 L. Mawby Winery includes wine tasting paired with light food, vineyards history, and wine education
- 20% off Spa coupon for a second treatment valued at $110 or more
- One Hydro Flask Wine Tumbler per guest
- 1 of the spa treatments below per person:
  - 50 min Relaxation Massage
  - 50 min Just the Two of Us Massage
  - 50 min Mother to Be Massage
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Aromatherapy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
ABOUT L. MAWBY WINERY
Celebrate Spring with MAWBY. They'll welcome the return of blossoms and bee with our deliciously fun Bubbles. All of our wines sparkle, naturally, and their winemaker Mike Laing with take you through the process. You'll sample 4 wines including Talismon, a field blend from grapes grown right on their property. Or maybe you prefer something fresh and fruity, like Detroit. They also offer ciders and small lot seasonal wines that are only available in their tasting room.
To accompany your wine tasting, they offer a selection of locally made spreads with crackers. Sit back, relax and enjoy the MAWBYness.
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 L. Mawby. The shuttle leaves our lobby at 11:30 a.m. and returns to the 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
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Woodland Wellness Body Buff
  - Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
Winter Season: NOvember 4, 2018 - April 18, 2019
Starting at $426* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $473* per person in the Tower
SPring Season: April 19 - May 23, 2019
Starting at $452* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $497* per person in the Tower
Summer Season: May 24 - September 1, 2019
Starting at $534* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $591* per person in the Tower
Fall Season: September 2 - November 3, 2019
Starting at $476* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $530* 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
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Woodland Wellness Body Buff
  - Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
Winter Season: NOvember 4, 2018 - April 18, 2019
Starting at $457* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $503* per person in the Tower
SPring Season: April 19 - May 23, 2019
Starting at $482* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $528* per person in the Tower
Summer Season: May 24 - September 1, 2019
Starting at $565* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $623* per person in the Tower
Fall Season: September 2 - November 3, 2019
Starting at $507* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $561* 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
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Woodland Wellness Body Buff
  - Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
Winter Season: NOvember 4, 2018 - April 18, 2019
Starting at $219* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $243* per person in the Tower
SPring Season: April 19 - May 23, 2019
Starting at $248* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $272* per person in the Tower
Summer Season: May 24 - September 1, 2019
Starting at $275* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $306* per person in the Tower
Fall Season: September 2 - November 3, 2019
Starting at $245* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $274* 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
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Woodland Wellness Body Buff
  - Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
Winter Season: NOvember 4, 2018 - April 18, 2019
Starting at $235* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $259* per person in the Tower
SPring Season: April 19 - May 23, 2019
Starting at $232* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $256* per person in the Tower
Summer Season: May 24 - September 1, 2019
Starting at $291* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $322* per person in the Tower
Fall Season: September 2 - November 3, 2019
Starting at $261* per person in the Hotel
Starting at $290* 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
  - Northern Nature Body Glow
  - Organic Coconut Apricot Sugar Scrub
  - Woodland Wellness Body Buff
  - Aromatherepy Infused Stress Relief Wrap
  - Refreshing Organic Facial
  - Repair & Restore Men’s Facial
  - Northern Serenity Manicure & Pedicure
*Spa appointments must be made in advance. Package rates include 20% Spa gratuity. Additional gratuities may be added at guest discretion.
SPring Season: April 19 - May 23, 2019
Midweek package starting at $407*
Weekend package starting at $430*
Summer Season: May 24 - September 1, 2019
Midweek package starting at $504*
Weekend package starting at $528*
Fall Season: September 2 - November 3, 2019
Midweek package starting at $431*
Weekend package starting at $455*
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

March 22 - April 7

Spring Break

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January 19

Taste of India Dinner

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Orvis Michigan Fly Fishing School

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January 25-27

Winter Spa-Cation with Black Star Farms

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Valentine's Day & President's Day Weekend Activities & Specials

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June 26 Through September 26

Dave Pelz Golf School

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May 10-12, 2019

VIP Wine & Spa with Mawby Winery

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June 7-9, 2019

Bowers Harbor VIP Wine and Spa Weekend

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November April 12-14, 2019

VIP Wine & Spa Weekend with Bonobo Winery

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February 28-March 2

“Into The Wild” brought to you by Northern Michigan Regional Chapter - Safari Club International

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Wednesdays 4:00-6:00pm

Happy Hour at Spa Grand Traverse

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Souvenir Shopping Tips

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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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