A Sweet Excuse to Indulge in Traverse City
June 16 is National Fudge Day—but in Traverse City, we celebrate fudge all year long. In fact, tourists who flock to Northern Michigan are lovingly dubbed “Fudgies” because they never leave without a box (or three) of the good stuff. And who can blame them? With the irresistible smell of melting chocolate wafting through charming streets, resistance is futile.
From classic chocolate to cherry walnut and seasonal twists like pumpkin pie or peppermint swirl, Traverse City is a fudge-lover’s paradise. And lucky for you, our vacation rental—Dyer Lake Vacation Rental—is just a short drive from some of the region’s most beloved fudge shops.
Here are just a few must-visit spots:
- Doug Murdick’s Fudge – Downtown Traverse City and Acme
- Kilwins – Also downtown and brimming with sweet treats
- Murdick’s Fudge Shoppe – St. Joseph Street in Suttons Bay
- 45th Parallel Café & Candy World – A hidden gem in Suttons Bay
Plus, many local stores carry locally made fudge, perfect for a spontaneous treat or last-minute gift.
Did You Know?
Fudge doesn’t melt and it freezes like a dream, making it the ideal Up North souvenir. Stock up while you’re here—your future self will thank you.
🧁 Curious how fudge became the iconic treat of the North? Check out our previous post: “Don’t Forget the Fudge!”
Make It at Home!
Can’t get to Traverse City? Hold yourself over with this super simple fudge recipe that comes together in minutes.
Easy Chocolate Fudge
Ingredients:
- 3 cups chocolate chips
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup butter (for richer flavor)
Instructions:
Melt everything together in the microwave (or over medium heat on the stove), stirring until smooth. Add your favorite mix-ins—chopped nuts, marshmallows, dried cherries—and pour into a greased 8″x8″ dish. Refrigerate until firm. Then, try not to eat it all in one sitting. 😉
Whether you’re a proud Fudgie or just fudge-curious, National Fudge Day is your cue to treat yourself. And in Traverse City, that’s basically every day.
Plan a Sweet Getaway to Traverse City
Thinking about a sweet escape? Come for the fudge, stay for the fun! 🍫☀️ Whether you’re strolling through downtown with a fresh slab of chocolatey goodness, sipping wine along the Leelanau Peninsula, or simply relaxing at Dyer Lake Vacation Home, any time is the perfect time to experience the best of Northern Michigan.
Looking for the perfect place to stay?
Our vacation home is just minutes from downtown Traverse City—and even closer to your next fudge fix. Book your stay and treat yourself to a truly sweet adventure!
Skip the extra fees—book direct and save! Or, if you prefer, you can reserve your stay through Airbnb.
📅 Ready to plan your getaway? Book now and experience everything the Traverse City area has to offer!

