If you like cool architecture combined with eating, shopping, or even hiking, this is the place for you! The Grand Traverse Commons are an old state mental institution converted into restaurants, shops, breweries, wineries, and more! This is a MUST SEE if you want something right in Traverse City.
If you like cherries, this is the place for you! They have almost every cherry-based product you can imagine from mustard and ketchup to pie, salsa, or even horseradish. Oh, and free wine and soda tastings! Did I mention the free samples of many of their food options?!?! That's the BEST part about this place.
If you like wine, the Traverse City area is the place to be! While Shady Lane is one of our favorites because of their cool outdoor space that makes you never want to leave, there are a ton of wineries on both Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula that are worth a visit - Shady Lane, Black Star Farms, Brengman Brothers, Mari Vineyards, 2 Lads....and the list goes on. I believe there are approximately 50 wineries in the area.
A small little group of shops right on the canal of a fishing village, this is a great option if you are looking for something to do outside of TC. While you're there, check out the Village Cheese Shanty for one of the best sandwiches ever (but bring cash! They don't accept cards).