The Best Harvest Views and Wine Trails Near Cherry Tree Inn

Autumn in Traverse City is magical. Crisp air, golden foliage, and the glow of Lake Michigan make it the perfect time to savor the season. For guests of Cherry Tree Inn & Suites, fall offers a front-row seat to Michigan’s natural beauty and an ideal starting point for exploring the region’s famed wine trails. Are you into sweeping vineyard views, cozy tasting rooms, or just the joy of a scenic drive? Here’s your guide to the best harvest experiences if you’re looking for wine in Traverse City.

Scenic Harvest Views

Fall transforms the region into a patchwork of red, orange, and gold. Some of the best leaf-peeping can be found just minutes from our Traverse City hotel:

• Old Mission Peninsula: A stunning 20-mile drive lined with orchards, vineyards, and breathtaking views of Grand Traverse Bay.
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Voted one of America’s most beautiful places, its overlooks and trails are spectacular in autumn.
• Boardman Lake Trail: A peaceful hike or bike ride where the reflection of fall foliage dances across the water.

Wine Trails Worth Exploring

Traverse City is home to two award-winning wine trails, both offering a perfect mix of tasting and sightseeing.

• Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail: Just a short drive from Cherry Tree Inn, this trail is home to over 10 wineries renowned for their cool-climate varietals. Favorites include Chateau Chantal, where you can sip Riesling with panoramic views, and Mari Vineyards, offering Italian-inspired wines in a stunning setting.
• Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail: Stretching across three mini-trails, this region is dotted with more than 25 wineries. Each has its own charm, from rustic barns to modern tasting rooms overlooking Lake Michigan. Don’t miss Black Star Farms, renowned for both wine and cider.

Beyond the Glass

Harvest season in Traverse City is about more than just wine; it's also about apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and cider mills. Stop at a roadside market for fresh donuts and cider, or explore local farms for a taste of fall straight from the source.

Your Autumn Escape on the Lake

After a day of exploring, return to your comfortable, lakefront accommodations. Unwind in your suite with a glass of local wine, relax in the indoor pool, or simply watch the sunset over Grand Traverse Bay from the property’s private beach. With its prime location and cozy atmosphere, Cherry Tree Inn is the perfect home base for your fall getaway.

Plan Your Harvest Adventure

Traverse City in autumn is best experienced slowly. Enjoy every sip, every view, and every crisp breeze off the bay. From vineyard trails to scenic drives, your harvest adventure begins right here at Cherry Tree Inn & Suites.

Click here to book your fall getaway!

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for the latest updates and happenings!