Wheels on Rails is a one-of-a-kind experience even the grumpiest teens will get excited about. Ride custom-made “rail bikes” on old, out-of-service railroads through the woods. Choose a a 3- or 6-mile tour for your group.

Enjoy the finest Michigan cherries in every item you sample, see, smell and purchase at Cherry Republic.

There’s more than cherry pie and homemade ice cream here. From jam, salsa, & bbq sauce to chocolate covered cherries & sour cherry drops, you’re not walking out of this store empty handed.

K1 Speed Traverse City is a thrill ride for all ages—rain or shine.

Open year-round, this indoor racing hub features a professionally designed track, high-speed, all-electric go-karts (up to 45 mph!), plus an arcade, café, and event spaces. Perfect for walk-in races, birthday parties, or team outings.

This historic landmark has been an “Up North” Tradition dating back to the ’50s. Nothing says summertime like a night at the Cherry Bowl Drive-In.

Have a blast hunting for murals throughout Downtown Traverse City.

Tubes, kayaks, paddle boards – take your pick – and enjoy the water with little to no effort as your float down the Platte River.

Book a charter fishing trip for a thrilling thing to do with your teen. There are lots of fishing charters in Traverse City to choose from. Most of them fish Grand Traverse Bay.

A paint-your-own pottery studio in the Warehouse District in Traverse City, MI.

Choose from the many different options for kids and adults. Be sure to inquire about shipping your art home if you won’t be in town to pick it up later.

When it comes to coffee, TC has options.

Example: Mundos offers some cool, jazzy vibes at their downtown location on Front St. They have delicious hand-crafted beverages and food items to match.

Teens seeking a fun challenge should head to the Hickory Hills Disc Golf Courses. With two 18-hole layouts starting in the woods near the lodge, they’ll enjoy awesome course, stunning GT Bay views, and plenty of hills.

Head to Turtle Creek Stadium to watch the Pit Spitters, TC’s hometown baseball team.

This fan-favorite team has clinched league titles, dishes out family-friendly vibes, and serves up classic ballpark eats—all just outside Traverse City.

Whether you’re a local or in town for the Cherry Festival, catching a Pit Spitters game is a great way to spend a summer evening.

Build your terrarium at Darling Botanical Co. in the Warehouse District.

They provide everything you need, or you can bring your own container.

Finding that perfect item (clothing or relic) is always a thrill. Happily, there are lots of places to check out in the TC area. Follow the Resale Trail for vintage and consignment.

One of our teen’s favorite stops is Zany Consignment – East.

Feed the alpacas at Cotton Creek Farms. Tour the farm and visit their shop. Purchase some alpaca-inspired souvenirs.

Check out Light of Day Organics, Michigan’s only tea farm. Open Fri-Sun, visitors can sample free teas, learn about tea, sip matcha smoothie shots from the tea bar, and explore the gardens.

Check out the open ice skating at Centre Ice Arena. Be sure to check their schedule before going as their times may change.

Join the Beach Bards this summer for poetry, storytelling, and music by a bonfire on Lake Michigan. Happening on Fridays during. the summer at 8 PM, starting with a Children’s Hour.

$1/person. Park at Leelanau School.

Try your wit at figuring out the clues and solving the puzzles to reach your exit. Escapeology is a high-adrenaline escape game where players work together inside a themed room to complete their mission before time runs out.

Visit The Den at Grand Traverse resort for more indoor activities like axe throwing, bowling, and arcade games.

Go Ghost Hunting with the Haunted Traverse Tour Company just south of Traverse City. This hands-on lets you use real investigation gear while exploring haunted woods and fields after dark.

Led by theatrical guides from Haunted Traverse Tour Company, the 2-hour outdoor tour blends eerie local legends, history, and interactive fun.

Designed for ages 13+, it’s a memorable way to get your adrenaline pumping—no jump scares, just real ghost-hunting vibes.

Whether you’re a seasoned climber or brand new to climbing. Elev8 has something for all levels of learners. In addition to climbing they offer yoga, fitness, and youth programs.

Pirates Cove Adventure Park is home to: Ropes Challenge Course, Adventure Golf, Go-Carts & Kiddie Go-Carts, and Bumper Boats plus two adventure golf courses.

Get caught up in epic battles at the War Zone. Come when you want with a membership. Otherwise, join their open play on Saturdays and Sundays.

If you would like some indoor fun, check out The Coin Slot Arcade. This classic arcade and Pinball Bar offers a rotating selections of games.

Enjoy the skate park at the Grand Traverse County Civic Center.

These ramps are not just for skateboards; you can take bikes, rollerblades, and scooters too.

Guests and members can relax in the hot tub at Crystal Mountain. The hot tub is even available for rent after hours for your own private group.

Mission Point Lighthouse is an iconic and historic landmark at the top of Old Mission Peninsula 17 miles north of TC.

This cool wood lighthouse sits half-way between the North Pole and Equator on the 45th Parallel.

The lighthouse is no longer operational, but overlooks the Grand Traverse Bay, has a park, expansive beach, gift shop, and historic log cabin. For a minimal fee, you can go inside the lighthouse for a self-guided tour.