Grandparent’s Corner
In honor of amazing grandparents either visiting Traverse City, or living in Traverse City with visiting grandchildren, we’ve developed this list of activities and attractions that appeal to all ages, and are easily accessed.
Shop downtown TC
Take the children to a few shops they will truly enjoy, and even give you the opportunity to amaze them with your skills and knowledge. Visit Hocus Pocus (located at 140 E Front Street) and learn a magic trick together to show off to their parents. Or visit Annie’s for some imaginative jelly beans and fun souvenirs.
http://www.anniesoftraversecity.com
Take a sail on the Tall Ships schooners
Spend a couple of hours on board a real tall ship (or pirate ship according to the children) on West Grand Traverse Bay. Offering sails tailored for kids, this is a great way to learn a bit about the area while taking in the majestic beauty of the bay. Kids are even offered the chance to sail the ship on their own.
http://www.tallshipsailing.com
Great Lakes Children’s Museum
Bring your own lunch and spend a few hours at this hands-on museum focused on the surrounding Great Lakes. There is something to entertain and educate every member of your family.
http://www.glcm.org
Paint your own pottery at Handz On Art
This unique art studio offers a wide variety of bisque fired art, from coffee mugs to princess figurines, that you purchase, paint, they fire in their kiln, and you pick up your pieces in a few days. Just be sure that the pieces will be finished before the grandchildren leave Traverse City!
http://www.tchandzonart.com
Feeling adventurous?
Rent a surrey from Pedal Perfection to take for a ride on the T.A.R.T. trail! Located on Four Mile Rd. Pedal Perfection offers surreys suited from five to eight passengers with hourly rental rates.
http://www.pedalperfection.com
Beaches suited for all ages:
Traverse City State Park- Playground, restrooms and concessions available. On site parking, State Park permit required. Traffic close by. 1132 US-31 N. Traverse City MI
East Bay Park- Playground, restrooms, picnic tables and grills. Parking on site. Great beach for small children as the water is very shallow for quite some time. Located by North Western Michigan College off East Bay Blvd.
Clinch Park- Restrooms and concessions available. Short walk required. Traffic close by. Downtown TC off Grandview Parkway. Parking available at the marina or by the Sarah Hardy Farmers Market lot.
- Ruth Goode
