Traverse City Golf Getaway: Best Courses, Food & Adventures in Northern Michigan
There are certain places that keep calling you back.
No matter how many times you visit, there’s always another view to admire, another meal to savor, another hidden gem to discover, and another memory waiting to be made.
For me, Traverse City is one of those places.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Northern Michigan countless times, and every trip seems to reinforce the same conclusion: Traverse City may very well be one of the most complete vacation destinations in America. Sure, it’s known for incredible golf, but limiting Traverse City to golf alone would be doing the region a tremendous disservice.
That’s why my time there during the production of a special edition of Michigan Golf Live TV was about much more than fairways and greens. It was about exploring the entire experience—the golf, the food, the scenery, the adventures, and the people who make this corner of Michigan so special.
And what a journey it turned out to be.
A Perfect Place to Begin: Crystal Mountain
Our adventure started at Crystal Mountain, a destination that continues to evolve while maintaining the welcoming atmosphere that has made it a favorite among Michigan families for generations.
The golf experience begins with the beautifully renovated Betsie Valley Course. Recent improvements have transformed the front nine, opening sightlines, expanding landing areas, and creating a more inviting experience without sacrificing challenge. It’s the kind of course that rewards good shots while still allowing golfers of all skill levels to enjoy the round.
Then there’s Mountain Ridge.
If you’ve never played it, add it to your list.
The elevation changes, towering pines, and spectacular views create a golf experience that feels distinctly Northern Michigan. There’s a reason Mountain Ridge earned recognition as the Michigan Golf Course Association’s 2025 Golf Course of the Year. Every hole seems to offer another postcard-worthy view.
But what struck me most during our visit wasn’t necessarily the golf.
It was hearing Crystal Mountain CEO John Melcher talk about family memories.
Golfers can spend the day on the course. Others can enjoy the spa, outdoor activities, shopping, or simply relaxing around the resort. Then everyone reconnects over dinner and shares stories from their day. That’s what makes Crystal Mountain special. It’s not just a golf destination—it’s a memory-making destination.
And speaking of dinner…
Our stop at The Thistle showcased another side of Northern Michigan that continues to impress visitors: the food.
Traverse City Has Become a Food Lover’s Paradise
One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is just how exceptional the dining scene has become throughout the Traverse City region.
For years, people came primarily for the golf, the lakes, and the scenery.
Now they come for the food as well.
Everywhere you turn, talented chefs are utilizing local ingredients, regional farms, fresh produce, and creative culinary ideas.
One example is Oakwood Proper Burgers in downtown Traverse City.
Sometimes after a day of golf, you don’t want fine dining.
You want a really great burger.
Oakwood delivers exactly that.
Using Michigan-raised beef, locally baked buns, and a commitment to quality ingredients, they’ve built a loyal following while creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming, energetic, and authentically local.
The burger certainly lived up to its name.
But we weren’t finished eating.
Not even close.
Beyond Golf: Fun for Everyone
One of the themes throughout this episode was proving that Traverse City offers something for everyone, including those who never pick up a golf club.
That’s what brought us to K1 Speed.
If you’ve never experienced high-performance electric go-kart racing, you’re missing out.
These aren’t the slow amusement park karts many of us remember growing up. This is legitimate indoor racing with impressive speed, tight competition, and plenty of adrenaline. It’s perfect for families, groups, corporate outings, or anyone looking to add a little excitement to their vacation.
And yes, after several laps behind the wheel, you’ll definitely work up an appetite.
Fortunately, Traverse City has plenty of ways to solve that problem.
The Golf Experience at AGaMing Golf Resort
No Northern Michigan golf tour would be complete without a stop at AGaMing Golf Resort.
Located just north of Traverse City, AGaMing has quietly assembled one of the most impressive collections of golf experiences in the region.
Our journey began at Antrim Dells.
This classic layout has earned praise from golfers for decades thanks to its scenic beauty, thoughtful design, and exceptional conditioning. The front nine offers a more open, approachable feel, while the back nine introduces tighter corridors, more dramatic views, and additional strategic challenges.
From there, we explored Sundance, a course that earned Michigan Golf Course of the Year honors and continues to receive rave reviews from golfers throughout the Midwest.
Sundance is visually stunning.
With dramatic bunkering, links-style characteristics, and expansive views, it looks intimidating from the tee. Yet somehow golfers often leave with one of their best scores of the season. That’s the beauty of thoughtful design.
Then there’s Torch Golf Course, the original course at the resort.
Torch offers a more traditional Northern Michigan experience with tree-lined holes, water features, and a premium on shot-making. It’s a wonderful contrast to Sundance and gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy two very different styles of golf during the same trip.
And perhaps most importantly, AGaMing’s leadership understands what makes Northern Michigan special.
Golf may bring visitors here, but the wineries, hiking, boating, beaches, restaurants, and outdoor adventures keep them coming back.
Family, Tradition, and Great Italian Food
After a full day of golf, we headed back into Traverse City for one of the most memorable meals of the trip.
Nittolo’s Little Italy isn’t just another restaurant.
It’s a family story.
Dominic, Francesca, and the entire Nittolo family have created a dining experience that feels authentic, welcoming, and wonderfully personal.
The atmosphere blends a New York-style Italian restaurant vibe with Northern Michigan hospitality. The result is something unique and memorable.
And yes, the chicken parmesan absolutely lives up to the hype.
When a family-owned restaurant stays packed day after day, there’s usually a good reason.
After one bite, you’ll understand why.
More Than Just Coffee at Higher Grounds
One of the most fascinating stops during our travels was Higher Grounds Trading Company.
At first glance, it appears to be a great local coffee shop.
But spend a few minutes learning their story and you’ll quickly realize it’s much more than that.
Higher Grounds was built around relationships and ethical sourcing. Their mission extends from local customers all the way to coffee farmers around the world.
Visitors can tour the roastery, participate in tastings, and gain a deeper understanding of the journey coffee takes from farm to cup.
It’s a reminder that some of the most interesting experiences in Traverse City happen away from the golf course.
The Natural Wonder of Sleeping Bear Dunes
No visit to this region would be complete without experiencing Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Photographs don’t do it justice.
Videos don’t fully capture it.
You have to stand there.
The scale of the dunes, the vastness of Lake Michigan, and the stunning natural beauty combine to create an experience that feels almost impossible to describe.
Whether you’re exploring on your own or joining a guided experience through Sleeping Bear Tours, this national treasure deserves a place on every Traverse City itinerary.
It’s one of those places that leaves a lasting impression long after you’ve gone home.
Grand Traverse Resort & Spa: The Complete Experience
Our final major golf stop brought us to Grand Traverse Resort & Spa.
I’ve spent many days here over the years, and every visit reminds me why it remains one of Michigan’s premier golf destinations.
The Bear, designed by Jack Nicklaus, remains one of the state’s most challenging and respected layouts.
The Wolverine offers beauty, strategy, and memorable holes throughout the round.
Spruce Run continues to be one of Michigan’s most underrated golf courses.
But once again, golf is only part of the story.
Guests can enjoy the private beach club, pools, restaurants, spa experiences, shopping, and countless family activities. Whether you’re traveling with a golf group, your spouse, your children, or all of the above, Grand Traverse Resort provides options for everyone.
That’s increasingly important in today’s travel environment.
Golf trips have become family vacations.
And Traverse City is perfectly positioned to deliver both.
One Final Meal and One Final Invitation
We concluded our journey at Artisan Waterfront at the Delamar, where locally sourced ingredients and creative culinary craftsmanship come together in spectacular fashion.
Like so many restaurants throughout the region, Artisan celebrates Northern Michigan by showcasing the ingredients, flavors, and producers that make the area unique.
As I reflected on our travels, one thought kept coming to mind.
We’ve barely scratched the surface.
That’s the challenge with Traverse City.
No matter how much ground you cover, there is always more to discover.
Another golf course.
Another restaurant.
Another trail.
Another sunset.
Another reason to extend your stay.
So here’s my advice.
When you plan your next Traverse City getaway, add an extra day or two.
You’ll need it.
Because whether you’re coming for world-class golf, remarkable dining, family adventures, breathtaking scenery, or simply a chance to slow down and enjoy life for a few days, Traverse City delivers in ways few destinations can.
I’ve been fortunate to visit many wonderful places over the years.
Traverse City remains one of my favorites.
And after spending time there, I suspect you’ll feel the same way.
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