Embrace the Drizzle: How To Spend a Rainy Spring Day in Traverse City
From boutique shopping and wine flights to curling up lakeside, here’s how to turn gray skies into a perfectly relaxed escape at the Alexandra Inn.
Rain in Traverse City? We call that built-in cozy mode. We’re sharing our top 10 favorite things to do on a rainy spring day in Traverse City — proof that a little drizzle only makes it better.
Explore The Village at Grand Traverse Commons: This former psychiatric hospital has been transformed into a massive indoor complex. You can walk through the Mercato to shop at unique boutiques, take a guided historical tour of the underground tunnels, or enjoy a meal at the Red Spire Brunch House.
Visit the Dennos Museum Center: Located at Northwestern Michigan College, this museum features one of the world's most significant collections of Inuit art. It also includes the Discovery Room, which offers hands-on exhibits like a laser harp and sound wall for children.
Play at The Den: Found within the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, this entertainment hub offers axe throwing, boutique bowling lanes, an arcade, and virtual reality experiences.
Discover the Music House Museum: This unique museum filled with rare automatic musical instruments, orchestrions, and nickelodeons. Guided tours often include live demonstrations of these historical machines.
Catch a Film at the State Theatre: This historic, volunteer-run cinema in downtown Traverse City is known for its classic atmosphere and diverse film selection. Its sister theater, Bijou by the Bay, is another excellent indoor option located nearby.
Indoor Fun at Incredible Mo's: This 35,000-square-foot facility features bowling, laser tag, an arcade, and multiple escape rooms, making it a popular choice for groups and families.
Wine Tasting in Renovated Spaces: Enjoy local wines indoors at spots like Left Foot Charley, located in the historic Grand Traverse Commons, or head to Mari Vineyards to explore their extensive wine caves.
Get Creative at Handz on Art: This paint-your-own-pottery studio in the Warehouse District allows you to choose and decorate your own ceramic pieces. It is a walk-in-friendly venue for all ages.
Visit the Great Lakes Children's Museum: Ideal for younger kids, this museum offers interactive exhibits focused on the Great Lakes ecosystem, including water tables and a lighthouse keeper simulation.
Try Indoor Go-Karting at K1 Speed: For thrill-seekers, this indoor track at the Cherryland Center offers high-speed electric go-kart racing that is completely protected from the weather.