Family History Center

Step into 1842 at the Dougherty Mission House, where weathered wooden floors creak beneath your feet and sunlight filters through wavy glass windows. This preserved Presbyterian mission home on Old Mission Peninsula tells the story of Reverend Peter Dougherty and the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. Run your fingers along hand-hewn beams while exploring rooms filled with period furnishings and artifacts. The scent of old wood mingles with fresh lake air drifting through open windows, creating an atmosphere that transports you back to Michigan's frontier days.

Simply Exquisite by the Bay started as chef Maria Santos's dream to bring authentic coastal cuisine to Benzie County's shoreline. After years perfecting her craft in Chicago's top kitchens, Maria returned home to Michigan with a vision: fresh Great Lakes fish paired with premium steaks in an atmosphere that celebrates the region's natural beauty. The restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows frame Crystal Lake's changing moods, while Maria's team sources locally whenever possible. Her signature whitefish preparation and hand-cut ribeyes have earned devoted followers who drive from Traverse City and beyond for dinner that truly lives up to the name.

Small-town historical society preserving and sharing the heritage of Fife Lake and the surrounding area.

Small-town historical society preserving and sharing the heritage of Fife Lake and the surrounding area.

When darkness falls over Traverse City's historic streets, the Haunted Traverse Tour Company reveals the spine-tingling stories lurking beneath this charming resort town's surface. Their knowledgeable guides lead small groups through Grand Traverse County's most haunted locations, sharing documented paranormal encounters and local legends passed down through generations. These aren't your typical ghost tours—they dig deep into authentic historical records, cemetery archives, and firsthand accounts from longtime residents. The Victorian-era buildings and old waterfront districts provide an atmospheric backdrop as you discover why Traverse City's past refuses to rest in peace.

Lake Township Park in Benzie County combines natural beauty with glimpses into Michigan's past. This family-friendly destination sits along pristine shoreline where kids can splash in shallow waters while parents explore historical markers detailing the area's logging and maritime heritage. The park maintains several original structures from early settlement days, including remnants of old pier foundations. Wide sandy beaches provide space for picnics and beach games, while interpretive trails wind through coastal dunes. Clean restrooms, picnic tables, and ample parking make this an easy stop during your northern Michigan adventure.