One Of America’s Most Beautiful Lakeside Hideaways Is Seeing Record Number Of Visitors

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Who's down for a lake town?

There's one beautiful hideaway we at Travel Off Path have in mind for you that boasts vibrant blue waters that feel like the Caribbean. Well, not literally…

It will soon become too cold in the Midwest for a swim, unlike The Bahamas… and nobody likes shivering in their skivvies!

However, the fall season thus far hasn't stopped travelers from flocking here to the point of setting a new visitor record.

No matter the weather, this scenic town along Lake Michigan is a far cry from Chicago, as it lies on the much more tranquil side of the lake, where people come to unwind, relax, savor small-town charm, and enjoy the astounding scenery of lush forestry and glistening, clear waters.

Best of all, you might be surprised to know you can fly direct from 20 U.S. cities (should you decide to brave airport chaos across the nation right now — yikes!).

A Four-Season Escape

Just because Lake Michigan mirrors Caribbean waters, sadly, the temperatures align with the rest of the Midwest.

But don't let that stop you from enjoying festive delights, snow-dusted vineyards, and a surprising amount of winter thrills, such as skiing and snowboarding nearby in Crystal Mountain over the next few months.

Plus, doesn't wine in winter have a nice ring to it?

That's right — you don't have to venture across continents to indulge in mulled wine cozied up by the fire, you can do it right here in Traverse City.

While it's not Napa, at least 8 wineries remain open during the chilliest time of year. Bowers Harbor Vineyards, for example, offers a heated pavilion and fire pits each winter.

In other words, there's no true off-season in Traverse City — they just find ways around what other places simply accept as detriments, but you won't regret visiting, whether it's under the blazing summer sun or bundled up with a glass of pinot by the fireplace.

Come spring, you'll see a return of Traverse City's sensational farm-to-table dining and sunny shores to fully enjoy the lake's plethora of activities, ranging from golden beaches to unwind or scenic boat tours back in full swing.

To no surprise, summer is the most popular time of year to visit, like most places, and aforementioned beaches and wineries tend to see more of a crowd, as do highly anticipated festivals such as the famous National Cherry Festival, as it's the “Cherry Capital of the World”.

Seriously, cherries are a way of life here, even for losers like me who could never master tying a knot of a cherry stem sans hands.

Even Traverse City's airport is named Cherry Capital Airport, so do yourself a favor and order all the ciders, juices, and cherry concoctions you can handle in one visit.

Gateway To Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Want to visit one of America's truly most beautiful destinations?

Look no further than Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a reigning champ once holding the title of “Most Beautiful Place in America”.

According to Midwest Living, this is one of their experts' favorite locales for a lakeside adventure, whether it be road tripping the gorgeous Pierce Stocking Drive or trekking the dunes backdropped by sweeping views of turquoise waters.

There's no shortage of activities here, whether it be renting a bike, going for a beautiful hike, or renting a kayak to venture through the calm Crystal River.

Though they say an absolute must-visit is South Manitou Island's lighthouse, where tours are offered during the summer.

Entrance fees to Sleeping Bear Dunes begin at $25 and can be purchased here.

Enjoy A Hallmark Movie Townscape

Sure, Traverse City's tourism board may want to rethink their YouTube ads so they don't resemble a Viagra commercial, but the town itself hardly needs marketing — its charm sells itself.

Of course, winter only enhances storybook vibes with the fall of snowflakes and storied shopfronts aglow at dusk, but no matter when you visit Traverse City, expect to feel right at home by welcoming locals and award-winning eats along with a maze of boutiques to peruse.

Traverse City has an undeniable Main Street Americana aesthetic that just feels inviting. Those vibes are perfectly displayed at numerous inns and bed and breakfasts rather than flashy resorts, such as Anchor Inn, holding rave reviews and prime real estate tucked away from the town center, smack dab on a private beach.