You can be endlessly entertained at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, with our renowned golf courses, pools, scrumptious restaurants, game center at The Den, and more!

But, if you’re looking to leave the resort for a bit to explore beautiful northern Michigan, feel free to try one of our favorite nearby spots—all five are within five miles of the resort.

Things to do Around Grand Traverse Resort

1. Maple Bay Natural Area

   • Address: 10849 US-31 N, Williamsburg, MI 49690
   • Hiking, swimming, and relaxing … at Maple Bay, you can do it all! Maple Bay’s trails will lead you to the quaint East Grand Traverse Bay shoreline. If you’re not looking for a day at the beach, spend your time on a nature walk or bird-watching. When pulling into the parking lot for Maple Bay, you can either park in the first lot and see Maple Bay Farm or drive further along the dirt road to the trailhead.

2. GT Butterfly House and Bug Zoo

   • Address: 8840 M 72 E, Williamsburg, MI 49690
   • All summer long, immerse yourself in the world of butterflies and insects! This butterfly garden near Traverse City, MI, is home to hundreds of butterflies living in a paradise of tropical flowers and plants, perfect for you to observe and enjoy. The bug zoo holds many invertebrates from axolotls to tarantulas. Don’t worry, the species in the bug zoo are safely contained.

3. Music House Museum

   1. Address: 7377 US-31 North, Williamsburg, MI 49690
   2. Take a step back in time at the Music House Museum. Here, guests can see a number of unique instruments and learn about the history and engineering of automated music. The museum offers an hour-and-a-half-long guided tour. The space can even be rented for business functions, private parties, and more!

4. Stone Hound Brewing Company

   • Address: 3593 Bunker Hill Rd., Williamsburg, MI 49690
   • Conveniently located along the TART trail, Stone Hound Brewing is bike-friendly and the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the views of East Grand Traverse Bay over a pint and some yummy food. Stone Hound Brewing hosts weekly events, including Tuesday night “Turntables and Tacos!” where you can bring your favorite record for everyone to jam out to and get $1 off your tacos and Wednesday trivia nights.

5. Turtle Creek Casino

   • Address: 7741 M-72 East, Williamsburg, MI 49690
   • Whether you’re feeling lucky or looking for some fun, visit Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel! The casino offers classic table games, including blackjack and roulette, along with slot machines, sports betting, and video poker. What will you win?

Book Your Stay and Take Advantage of Nearby Activities in Traverse City

If you aren’t busy enough with the pools, spa, golf courses, and more at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, the surrounding area is sure to fill your time with plenty of interactive and relaxing spots.

Get more Traverse City area content and the inside scoop on things to do near Grand Traverse Resort and Spa! To learn more about nearby activities and even things you can do right at the resort, follow us on TikTok @gt_resort. How will you spend your time in the area? Call us at 231-534-6000 or book your stay in Traverse City online today.