Discover the Best Things to Do in Grand Traverse County

Welcome to Dyer Lake in Grand Traverse County—a place where adventure, relaxation, and incredible flavors come together! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime local, there’s always something new to explore. From breathtaking outdoor adventures to mouthwatering dining experiences, this guide will help you make the most of your time in this Northern Michigan gem.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking and Biking Trails

Lace up your boots or hop on your bike—Grand Traverse County has miles of scenic trails! The Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trail offers over 60 miles of picturesque pathways, while the Boardman Lake Trail boasts stunning waterfront views.

Water Activities

Love the water? You’re in the right place! Kayak, paddleboard, or sail on the pristine waters of Grand Traverse Bay or local rivers. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line in the bay or one of the many inland lakes teeming with fish.

Wine and Dine

Wineries and Vineyards

Sip your way through the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, home to world-class wineries with breathtaking views. Be sure to visit Chateau Chantal, Black Star Farms, and Brys Estate for a memorable tasting experience.

Culinary Delights

From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy cafes, Traverse City’s food scene is a feast for the senses. Try Trattoria Stella, The Cooks’ House, or Poppycocks for a meal you won’t forget.

Cultural Experiences

Museums and Galleries

Explore art and history at the Dennos Museum Center, featuring an impressive Inuit art collection, or visit Interlochen Center for the Arts for world class performances.

Festivals and Events

Don’t miss the legendary National Cherry Festival, where you can enjoy parades, concerts, and delicious cherry-themed treats.

Family-Friendly Activities

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

A short drive away, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features towering sand dunes and breathtaking lake views. The Dune Climb is a must-try for families!

Great Lakes Children’s Museum

Keep the little ones entertained with hands-on exhibits at Great Lakes Children’s Museum. They will have interactive fun at this Traverse City gem.

Shopping and Entertainment

Downtown Traverse City

Shop ‘til you drop at charming boutiques and local art galleries in Downtown Traverse City. Then, catch a movie at the historic State Theatre.

Village at Grand Traverse Commons

This former state hospital turned vibrant hub offers unique shops, fantastic dining, and beautiful walking trails. You can even enjoy an indoor farmers market during the winter months. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is a small neighborhood of restaurants, wineries, bakeries and more.

Wellness and Relaxation

Spas and Wellness Centers

Unwind with a luxurious massage at Epiphany Salon and Spa or find your zen at Dharamsala TC for yoga and other workshops in downtown Traverse City.

Adventure Sports

Skiing and Snowboarding

Winter fun awaits at Hickory Hills Ski Area, offering downhill skiing, cross-country trails, and snowshoeing adventures.

Zip Lining and Aerial Parks

Get your adrenaline pumping at Mt. Holiday Ski & Recreation Area, where zip-lining and aerial courses provide thrills with a view.

From outdoor escapades to indulgent dining and cultural discoveries, Grand Traverse County has something for everyone. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a lifetime, there’s always a new adventure waiting for you!

Plan Your Trip to Dyer Lake Vacation Home Today!

Make Dyer Lake Vacation Home your perfect home base for exploring Grand Traverse County! Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, savoring local flavors, or unwinding by the water, our cozy retreat puts you right in the heart of it all. Book your stay today and experience the best of Northern Michigan!

Book direct and save or you can book through Airbnb if you prefer.

Visit our photo gallery to see all the pictures of Dyer Lake Vacation Home.

Hello there! I’m Marisa, Patrick’s mom, and I’m here to make sure your stay at Dyer Lake Vacation Home is as delightful as possible. Whether you have questions about the area or need help with anything during your stay, I’m your go-to person. My goal is to ensure you have a fantastic time and enjoy our little slice of heaven.

Our family finally settled in the Traverse City area in 1995 after years of vacationing here. Back in the day, when we were a bustling family of six, finding a suitable cabin was quite the adventure—before the days of the internet. I would call the Visitors Center (now Traverse City Tourism) and patiently wait for mimeographed sheets listing various cabin options. Finding a place that could fit our crew and accommodate our needs was no small feat!

With four kids, two hotel rooms just didn’t cut it, and dining out for every meal added up quickly. We loved having a home base, but finding a well-stocked kitchen with more than the basics felt like winning the lottery. We used to cross our fingers hoping the oven was big enough for a 9×13 pan and that there were at least two working burners on the stove.

Oh, how times have changed! You can leave the old days behind when you stay at Dyer Lake Vacation Home. Patrick, Lauren, and the rest of the family cook here, vacation here and play here. You will find a kitchen that’s well-stocked and ready to handle all your culinary adventures. We’ve got a full-size refrigerator and a stove/oven that actually works! Dyer Lake offers a comfortable place to hang out and a quiet lake for kayaking or lounging lakeside. Enjoy your stay—we’re thrilled to have you here!