I love visiting the 'Napa of the Midwest.' It's an underrated gem with reasonable prices and fantastic wine.

• It has stunning lakefront views, a small-town feel, and epic outdoor adventures.
• Affordable prices and beautiful scenery make this my favorite drinking destination.

Michigan’s natural wonders provide underrated outdoor exploration opportunities.

In addition to the ample boating, swimming, and other lake life options found in Traverse City, the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features miles of towering sand dunes that feel worlds away from the flat plains most associated with the Midwest.

Whether I’m hiking the dunes, sampling local flavors, enjoying a day out on the water, or setting off in search of striking lighthouses (Michigan has more than 100!), I always enjoy a stress-free and budget-friendly stay in Traverse City.

This story was originally published on April 6, 2025, and most recently updated on June 27, 2026.