Weekend Getaway: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

If you’ve been following me for awhile you know my love for northern Michigan runs deep. I’ve been visiting the Traverse City area since I was very little with my family and have so many memories swimming in the bay, shopping downtown and enjoying some ice cream with my sister by the lake.

I recently had the opportunity to stay at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa for a weekend getaway to explore Traverse City and eat at Aerie. The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa is located just 15 minutes from downtown Traverse City, Michigan and a great destination spot all year round. We visited during Blossom Days in May, and it was incredible seeing all the cherry blossoms while wine tasting on Old Mission Peninsula. If you’ve never been to Traverse City or stayed at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa scroll down to learn more.

Guest Rooms:

When you stay at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa you have the option to stay at the tower, hotel, condominiums or suites. We stayed in the tower which features views of the bay or golf course with a newly renovated look and feel. I absolutely loved enjoying this lake view each morning from bed. I also really liked the spacious bathrooms and size of the room that made it easy to just relax after exploring Traverse City.

Things To Do:

There are so many fun options for things to do year round at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa. If you’re visiting this summer and you love golfing you can’t go wrong with the three championship golf courses offered at the resort.

If you would rather just relax (yes please) you should check out the spa. The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa offers a wide variety of different services including massages, skin care treatments and nail care options.

While I was staying at the resort I checked out the Beach Club. Obviously it wasn’t quite warm enough to enjoy the lake, pool or a bonfire during my visit but it was an amazing view to soak up. If you’re staying during the summer you can check out live music, kids activities, and watersport rentals at the Beach Club.

Aerie Restaurant and Lounge:

Whether you’re staying at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, live near Traverse City or are planning a visit to the area I would highly recommend a visit to Aerie located on the 16th floor of the tower. With panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay, a flavor packed menu and local beer and wine options what more could you ask for?

We started our dinner with wine from Bowers Harbor (I’m obsessed with their unwooded chardonnay) and enjoying the stunning views of the bay. Cheers to this view!

When warm weather arrives in spring/summer I absolutely love a refreshing bowl of gazpacho. With diced watermelon and tomatoes and a balsamic reduction this gazpacho was just what I was craving. We also ordered the tempura asparagus with grated parmesan cheese, lemon olive oil and smoked black pepper. This was a perfect starter to share with a group and even if you’re not a huge fan of asparagus you would like this.

The Aerie salad had my name written all over it with a local cherry vinaigrette, cucumber, pickled red onion, maytag blue cheese, candied pecans and dried cherries. I’m seriously obsessed with any salad that includes dried cherries, blue cheese and pecans and trust me this salad tops my list. It was refreshing and crisp incorporating local flavors. I also couldn’t resist the avocado and crab salad (best combo ever) with blue lump crab, capers, lime, and avocado. This was truly a highlight of the night and would totally come back for this.

I couldn’t wait to try the salmon at Aerie smoky fingerling potato salad, and grilled asparagus. The salmon was cooked perfectly with a crisp crust and paired perfectly with the potatoes and asparagus.

Thank you Grand Traverse Resort and Spa and Aerie Restaurant for your amazing customer service and making me love Traverse City even more. If you’re planning a visit in Traverse City this summer look no further than staying and/or dining at Grand Traverse Resort and Spa.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Grand Traverse Resort and Spa but all opinions here are my own. Thank you for supporting the sponsors who allow me to continue to create content on The GR Guide.