I’ve had the privilege of traveling to some of the most beautiful destinations around the world in my 33 years in the meetings and incentives industry, and yet, there’s something truly special about Traverse City and Northern Michigan. It rivals some of the most renowned places I’ve visited, proving that exceptional experiences can be found right here at home.
While my home base is in Grand Rapids, Michigan—where we continue to curate unforgettable programs for visitors—over the past several years, our expertise has been sought for the kind of complex logistics and creative experiences that events in Northern Michigan often require. And let me tell you, this region delivers.
Traverse City stands out as a vibrant hub in Northern Michigan’s story. Nestled along the shores of Grand Traverse Bay, the area is known for its world-class wine country, farm-to-table culinary scene, and unique small-town charm. With more than 40 wineries across the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas, and experiences ranging from tall ship sailing to cherry-picking and dune hikes, it offers the perfect blend of leisure and adventure for groups.
Last fall, I attended a FAM trip hosted by Traverse City Tourism and Crystal Mountain Resort, along with Bridget Radzicki, one of our meeting planners at Destination Consultants. From a warm welcome and elegant dinners to craft cocktail classes and lakefront sunsets, the experience was packed with inspiration.
During our FAM, we toured Crystal Mountain Resort, visited Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, sampled cherry wine and gourmet treats at Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, and enjoyed a cocktail class at Iron Fish Distillery. We ended one evening with a breathtaking sunset on the beach in Frankfort, followed by a cozy Italian dinner at Vita Bella. It was a perfect showcase of how the region can shine for group experiences.
Inspired by that experience—and by our years of planning unforgettable programs in the region—I’ve crafted a sample 4-night Traverse City incentive itinerary, shared at the end of this post along with a few favorite photos.
We've supported clients with large-scale conferences and tailored incentives in Northern Michigan—and we’re excited to bring more experiences to life this coming season.
As the premier Destination Management Company (DMC) in Michigan, Destination Consultants brings global perspective and local expertise together to deliver extraordinary results. From airport meet-and-greets to full-service logistics and creative experiences, we’re here to elevate your next event.
✨ Want a taste of what your next Traverse City program could look like?
👉 Scroll down to view a sample 4-night Traverse City incentive itinerary, packed with wine tours, sand dune adventures, and unforgettable dining experiences.
📸 And don’t miss the photos from our fall FAM—proof that Northern Michigan is every bit as magical as it sounds.
Sample 4-Night Traverse City Incentive Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Northern Michigan
VIP Airport Transfers & Check-In
Traverse City-themed welcome reception (mini cherry pies, local sliders, regional wines)
Casual welcome dinner & fireside afterglow with s’mores
Day 2: Meetings + Sunset + Nightlife
Morning group meeting with regional snacks and coffee
Afternoon choice of activity: wine tour, spa, golf, kayaking, or biking
Early evening winery stop at Chateau Chantal or Mari Vineyards (light snacks served on the coaches)
Continue to Mission Point Lighthouse for a sunset toast with Mawby sparkling wine
Return to hotel for late-night smash burgers, pizzas, and dessert bar
Day 3: Full-Day Regional Excursions (Choose One)
🚘 Glen Arbor + Sleeping Bear Dunes (with Cherry Republic visit and hike)
🚘 Historic Fishtown & Leland (shopping, smoked fish, lakeside lunch)
🚘 Charlevoix (Mushroom House tour, waterfront dining, artisan markets)
Evening:
Dinner on own or shuttles provided to downtown Traverse City
Optional speakeasy and pub tour through the city’s vibrant craft cocktail scene
Day 4: Final Day & Celebration
Morning activities: farm-to-table cooking class, vineyard tours, shopping, tall ship or catamaran sail
Final dinner at or near hotel with wine pairings, heartfelt toasts
Photo slideshow showcasing trip highlights
Day 5: Departure Day
Breakfast-to-go or casual farewell brunch
Private transfers to TVC
Optional early-morning lakeside coffee meet-up
