Grand Traverse Distillery (Leland)

Step into Bushell's Kitchen & Cocktail's and you'll find the kind of place where clinking glasses mix with genuine laughter. The aroma of comfort food drifts from the kitchen while bartenders shake up creative cocktails behind the polished bar. Families settle into cozy booths as friends gather around high-tops, sharing plates and stories. The extensive wine selection pairs perfectly with hearty American favorites, while craft beer flows from local taps. When Traverse City evenings turn warm, the patio becomes the place to be, strung with lights and buzzing with conversation.

Gypsy Spirits brings an unconventional spirit to Traverse City's wine scene. This eclectic spot combines locally-sourced wines with expertly crafted cocktails, creating a vibe that's part wine bar, part craft cocktail lounge. The owners, longtime locals with a passion for both viticulture and mixology, designed the space to feel like your friend's really cool living room. Groups gravitate here for the relaxed atmosphere and creative drink menu that changes with Michigan's seasons. Think wine flights paired with house-made bitters and cocktails that incorporate local cherries and maple syrup.

Iron Fish Distillery brings craft spirits to Benzie County with a dedication to locally-sourced ingredients and small-batch production. This artisan distillery transforms Michigan-grown grains into distinctive whiskeys, vodkas, and seasonal spirits that capture the essence of northern Michigan. The tasting room welcomes visitors to sample handcrafted spirits while learning about the distillation process from passionate staff. Tours reveal the copper stills and aging barrels where each bottle develops its unique character. Located between Traverse City and the Sleeping Bear Dunes, Iron Fish represents the growing craft distilling movement taking root across Michigan's agricultural heartland.

Tucked into downtown Traverse City, Low Bar lives up to its name with an unpretentious vibe that draws locals and visitors alike. The dimly lit space buzzes with conversation over carefully curated wines, rotating craft taps showcasing Michigan breweries, and cocktails mixed with genuine skill. Exposed brick walls and weathered wood create that perfect neighborhood hangout atmosphere. Groups gather around high-top tables, sharing plates and stories late into the evening. When you can't stay, their takeout lets you bring a taste of this local favorite home.

Mammoth Distilling brings craft spirits to Traverse City's growing beverage scene with small-batch whiskeys, vodkas, and seasonal specialties. Their tasting room showcases locally-sourced ingredients and traditional distilling methods that create distinctive Michigan spirits. The knowledgeable staff walks visitors through flight tastings, explaining the distillation process and flavor profiles. You can sample their flagship bourbon alongside limited releases, plus cocktails crafted with their own spirits. The industrial-chic space maintains an approachable atmosphere where both whiskey novices and enthusiasts discover something new. Tours reveal the behind-the-scenes craft that goes into each bottle.

Step into Nolan's Cigar Bar and you'll find Traverse City's most sophisticated spot for unwinding after a day on the bay. The handcrafted cocktails here rival anything you'll find in Detroit or Chicago, while the craft beer selection showcases the best of Northern Michigan's brewing scene. Premium cigars meet an impressive wine list that celebrates both local vintages and international favorites. The outdoor patio becomes the place to be during summer evenings, especially when live music fills the air. This isn't your typical hotel bar – it's a destination that draws locals and visitors alike.