Backcountry North

I'm Planty AF brings an unexpected twist to Traverse City's dining scene, proving that plant-based cuisine can satisfy even the most devoted carnivores. This innovative restaurant transforms traditional steak and seafood dishes into creative vegan masterpieces that actually taste incredible. The chefs here don't just substitute ingredients—they reimagine classic comfort foods entirely. Think smoky portobello 'steaks' with chimichurri, jackfruit 'crab' cakes that fool your taste buds, and cashew-based 'scallops' that rival the real thing. The atmosphere strikes the right balance between casual and elevated, making it an ideal spot for curious omnivores and committed vegans alike.

Surfaces takes hiking gear seriously in Traverse City. This isn't your typical outdoor store - they understand the unique demands of Northern Michigan's terrain. Sand dunes, rocky shorelines, and dense hardwood forests require different approaches, and the staff here gets it. You'll find carefully curated trail gear that actually works in local conditions. The shop connects hikers with Lesser-known paths through the Sleeping Bear Dunes backcountry and hidden routes along the Boardman River. Their local trail knowledge runs deep, making them invaluable for discovering Traverse City's best-kept hiking secrets beyond the crowded tourist spots.

The Butcher's Block by Maxbauer transforms your Traverse City hiking adventures with premium, locally-sourced trail provisions. This specialty meat shop crafts artisanal jerky, summer sausages, and portable protein snacks that fuel serious hikers exploring Northern Michigan's rugged terrain. Their house-made beef jerky comes in unique flavors like cherry wood smoked and maple bourbon, while their trail mix incorporates local nuts and dried cherries. Stop by before hitting the Sleeping Bear Dunes or Boardman River trails to stock up on high-energy snacks that actually taste incredible.

Tucked away on the scenic Leelanau Peninsula, Case-Daniels & Rae Jewelry showcases handcrafted pieces that capture the essence of Northern Michigan's natural beauty. The gallery's carefully curated collection ranges from delicate silver work inspired by Lake Michigan's shoreline to bold statement pieces reflecting the region's dramatic landscapes. Local artisans create jewelry using materials like Petoskey stones and Leland blue stones, turning Michigan's geological treasures into wearable art. The intimate space invites you to examine each piece closely, discovering intricate details that tell stories of the Great Lakes region.

My Michigan Roots tells the story of generations who've called Antrim County home. This family-owned inn captures the essence of northern Michigan living through carefully preserved local artifacts, handcrafted furniture made from regional hardwoods, and rooms decorated with vintage photographs of the area's logging and farming heritage. The owners, third-generation locals, share tales of their ancestors who settled here in the 1890s. Each morning brings fresh coffee and homemade pastries while guests plan adventures around Torch Lake or into nearby Traverse City, just thirty minutes south.

Pier Fun brings waterfront hospitality to Benzie County with accommodations that put Lake Michigan practically at your doorstep. The property gives guests direct access to sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters without the crowds you'll find closer to downtown Traverse City. Clean, comfortable rooms come with practical amenities like mini-fridges and microwaves - perfect for storing fresh cherries from local orchards or keeping beverages cold after beach days. The real draw here is location: you can watch sunrise over the lake from your window and walk to the water in under two minutes.