Aussie Watersports
Northern Michigan's go-to spot for boat rentals since 1995. They've got jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, pontoons, ski boats — pretty much anything that floats. Multiple locations around Traverse City.
Find the best outdoor recreation in Traverse City and the surrounding area.
Find the best outdoor recreation in Traverse City and the surrounding area.
Quick ideas
Browse outdoor recreation in Traverse City, Michigan. Use the filters to refine your search or explore related categories.
Filters & search
36 places
Sort by:
Showing 36 of 54 places
Northern Michigan's go-to spot for boat rentals since 1995. They've got jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, pontoons, ski boats — pretty much anything that floats. Multiple locations around Traverse City.

Full-service marina at the foot of the Elberta Bluffs, right near the Betsie Valley bike trail. Great base for salmon and steelhead fishing on Lake Michigan. Close to Frankfort's shops and restaurants, with a beach less than a mile away.

This public boat launch on Lake Leelanau's north arm puts you directly onto some of Northern Michigan's clearest waters. The concrete ramp handles everything from kayaks to larger fishing boats, with ample parking and easy trailer maneuvering space. Lake Leelanau's reputation for walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth…
A scenic waterfront park on the Old Mission Peninsula with beach access and harbor views.

Boat rental and parasailing operation right on East Grand Traverse Bay's sugar sand beach. They've got jet skis, pontoons, sailboats, kayaks, SUPs, and parasailing all in one spot.

Neighborhood park in Traverse City with green space, playground, and recreational facilities. Convenient spot for families and outdoor activities.
Quiet inland lake surrounded by natural beauty, offering fishing, kayaking, and peaceful scenery.
Peaceful public access point to Cedar Lake, perfect for launching kayaks or a quiet afternoon by the water.
Popular waterfront park on East Grandview Parkway with beach access, playground, marina, and historic zoo site.

Crystal Adventures stands as a beacon of faith in Benzie County's rolling countryside, where generations of Lutheran families have gathered since the early 1900s. This charming church serves a tight-knit community that spans from crystal-clear lakes to working farms. The congregation's deep roots show in their annual…
Guided boat tours on West Grand Traverse Bay offering sightseeing cruises and waterfront perspectives of Traverse City.

You know that spot where locals quietly slip their boats into Grand Traverse Bay without the crowds? That's East Arm Boat Launch. This no-frills concrete ramp sits right on the east arm of the bay, giving you direct access to some of the clearest water in Northern Michigan. The launch stays busy with fishing boats…
East Bay Boat Company has been putting families on Grand Traverse Bay since 1987, when captain Mike Carlson started with just two pontoon boats and a dream. Today, this family-run operation runs everything from sunset cruises to fishing charters out of their weathered dock on the east arm of the bay. The Carlsons know…
Waterfront park in Elberta with beaches, playgrounds, and stunning views of Lake Michigan and the marina.

ELEV8 Climbing and Fitness transforms indoor recreation with towering climbing walls that challenge everyone from first-timers to seasoned climbers. The facility includes bouldering areas, top-rope climbing, and auto-belays that let you climb solo safely. Kids love the colorful holds and easier routes, while adults…

The sizzle of perfectly seared steaks and the gentle crackle of fresh seafood hitting hot cast iron create an unmistakable soundtrack at G.J.'s Rentals. This Grand Traverse County gem fills the air with rich aromas of garlic butter and wood-fired char that draw you in before you even step through the door. The dining…
A public boat launch on Glen Lake providing water access for boating and fishing.

Wind whips through your hair as you pedal past cherry orchards and vineyards that stretch toward Lake Michigan's brilliant blue horizon. Grand Traverse Bike Tours transforms the rolling hills of Leelanau Peninsula into your personal playground, complete with expertly maintained bikes and routes that showcase Northern…

Captain Mike Torrino started Grand Traverse Parasail in 1994 with a simple mission: give people the chance to soar above Grand Traverse Bay like the eagles that circle these waters. What began as a one-boat operation has grown into Traverse City's most trusted parasailing outfit, launching thousands of adventurers…

The Leelanau Peninsula's rolling hills and winding backroads create perfect cycling territory, and Great Lakes Sailing Company puts you right in the heart of it all. Feel the cool lake breeze against your face as you pedal past cherry orchards and vineyards, with glimpses of Grand Traverse Bay sparkling through the…

Immaculate Conception stands as one of Traverse City's most architecturally striking Catholic churches, drawing visitors with its impressive Gothic Revival design and towering spire that punctuates the downtown skyline. The church serves both active parishioners and curious visitors who appreciate its beautiful…

Just southwest of Traverse City, Interlochen State Park sits between two pristine lakes - Green Lake and Duck Lake - creating one of Michigan's most picturesque camping destinations. The park's towering pines and hardwoods provide natural shade for over 400 campsites, while sandy beaches invite swimming and…

This state park stretches along the eastern shore of Grand Traverse Bay, giving you direct access to some of the most beautiful sandy beaches in northern Michigan. The campground welcomes both families and their four-legged companions, with spacious sites tucked among towering pines and hardwoods. You can swim in the…
A soccer facility on North Keystone Road offering fields for youth sports and recreation.

Lake Ann Camp is a Christian camp and retreat center on 340 acres in the northwoods near Lake Ann, founded in 1948. It runs summer camp for grades 4 to 12 and hosts group rentals and weekend retreats.

Born from a lifelong passion for the Leelanau Peninsula's wild places, Leelanau Adventures guides visitors through some of Northern Michigan's most stunning terrain. Local guides share intimate knowledge of hidden waterfalls, ancient dune formations, and forest trails that wind through maple and beech groves. The…
Northern Michigan's curling club offering lessons, leagues, and open play in this classic ice sport popular throughout the region.

At the tip of the Leelanau Peninsula, this rugged state park stretches along Lake Michigan's shoreline where wind-carved dunes meet dense hardwood forests. The historic Grand Traverse Lighthouse stands sentinel over crashing waves, while hiking trails wind through towering maples and birches. Kids scramble over…

M22 Glen Arbor is the M22 brand shop at 6298 W Western Ave in Glen Arbor, part of the Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District.

MacDonald Marine has been serving the boating community in Benzie County for years, and they really know their stuff. What sets them apart is their delivery service - they'll actually bring parts and equipment right to your dock or marina, which is a lifesaver when you're dealing with boat repairs during peak season.…

A Traverse City nonprofit that keeps Great Lakes maritime history afloat. Its schooner Madeline and the sailing vessel Champion sail West Grand Traverse Bay from Discovery Pier, and volunteers help maintain the ships in its restoration shop.

Memories Traverse City transforms your hiking adventures into lasting keepsakes through guided trail experiences across Grand Traverse County's most scenic routes. Local guides share insider knowledge about hidden waterfalls, ancient cedar groves, and the best overlooks for sunrise photography. Each excursion includes…
Zip line adventure at Mt. Holiday featuring multiple lines, treetop platforms, and thrilling rides through the forest.
Marine services company providing boat maintenance, repair, and professional support for vessel owners.

The rhythmic clip-clop of hooves on forest trails creates the soundtrack for your adventure through Benzie County's rolling countryside. Outrider Horseback Riding guides families through dense hardwood forests where sunlight filters through maple and oak canopies, casting dancing shadows on well-worn paths. The earthy…
Outdoor pool and recreation area at Crystal Mountain Resort offering summer swimming, poolside relaxation, and family fun.
ExploreTraverse features top-rated outdoor recreation options in Traverse City, Michigan. Our curated listings help you find the best places to enjoy.
ExploreTraverse lists 54 outdoor recreation in our database.
Yes! Many outdoor recreation in the Traverse City area operate year-round. Check individual listings for seasonal hours and availability.
You'll find outdoor recreation throughout Traverse City and nearby areas including Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau Peninsula, and downtown. Use our neighborhood filters to explore specific areas.
Yes! ExploreTraverse is completely free to use for finding outdoor recreation. Our platform helps you discover the best places in Traverse City without any hidden fees.