If you aren’t from the Midwest, you might not have heard of Traverse City. Even if you are, you might consider it a small enclave—and little more.
Videos by TravelAwaits
In reality, Traverse City packs a big punch for travelers who enjoy the outdoors and Mother Nature, along with small-town communal vibes. The area is home to plenty of parks and reserves where you can hike, cycle, kayak, and more. You can also find some of the region’s best wineries.
In town, there are museums, farmers’ markets, boutique shopping, and more. If you know about Ann Arbor’s obsession with all things delicious and homegrown, expect similar fare in Traverse City. There’s even history to soak up, including at the City Opera House.
The best part? Traverse City is a solid trip any time of year, including in winter, especially if you like cross-country skiing and fat-tire biking. Here’s where to shack up at some of the more charming Vrbos in Traverse City, Michigan for your next outdoor adventure up north.
[This article is part of TravelAwaits new Airbnb and Vrbo recommendation series. We dig into listings to identify the crème de la crème of Guest Favorites, Superhost listings, and hidden gems to make finding the perfect rental for your next trip a breeze.]
Best Vrbos in Traverse City, Michigan for your next trip
- Budget-friendly: Victorian Studio
- Best Victorian stay: The Blue Victorian
- Best location: Townhouse in the Heart of Traverse City
- Rooftop views: Downtown 2BR Condo
- Right on the water: Easy Bay Escape
- Luxury stay: Luxury MCM Retreat
- Great for longer stays: Mid-century Downtown
- Best for families: Downtown TC Townhouse
Best Vrbos in Traverse City, Michigan, for an outdoor adventure
Victorian Studio
It’s cozy, historic, and budget-friendly—there’s no better spot to stay in Traverse City if you’re just passing through and don’t want to spend much. Great price aside, this small one-bedroom also has a central location in the popular Slab Town neighborhood. You can walk to some of the city’s best attractions.
The Blue Victorian
As mentioned up top, Traverse City is home to lovely Victorian architecture. If you appreciate historic features and a central location, you’ll enjoy this three-bedroom stay. Along with original woodwork and a full kitchen, this home has a few gathering areas where your group of six can plot out the next day’s adventures.
Townhouse in the Heart of Traverse City
This two-bedroom townhouse is located right off Traverse City’s main hub, giving you a quiet spot to stay that’s still close to the action on Front Street. Even better, you have garage parking, meaning you don’t need to worry about overnight fees or street parking while you stay in one of the city’s most walkable areas. Lastly, the hosts offer a complimentary welcome wine and coffee upon your arrival.
Downtown 2BR Condo
Like the last rental, this two-bedroom setup is located right in the action. You can check out Traverse City’s best nightlife, shopping, dining, and breweries just steps from the door. However, this Vrbo comes in a condo package, meaning you’ve got a few added perks—including a lovely rooftop where you can enjoy bird’s-eye views of the area. In autumn, that’s a pretty sweet offer for fall foliage lovers.
Easy Bay Escape
Michigan might have a relatively short summer, meaning you might not want to swim in late spring or early autumn. However, even if you don’t want to get in the water, you’ll love this five-bedroom waterfront home that comes with a private beach on East Grand Traverse Bay. You have direct access to the water—and some pretty lovely sunrise views. The five-bedroom setup is also very spacious for larger groups, and comes with both indoor and outdoor hangout spots.
Luxury MCM Retreat
If you’re looking for Vrbos in Traverse City that put you in the lap of luxury, this four-bedroom hideaway has it all… and then some. It’s hidden away in the forest but is just a few steps from a shared sandy beach along the Old Mission Peninsula. The windows are tall, giving you full views of the forest all year round. There’s also a game and arcade room that older kids will love, a fireplace, a near full wraparound porch, and large, comfortable bedrooms that you’ll want to move into. It’s worth every penny. (Note: no children under five.)
Mid-century Downtown
Stay a while at this comfortable one-bedroom condo. It’s located right in the heart of downtown, making it walkable to most of Front Street’s top spots. The unit is on the top floor of a new condo building, giving you contemporary features throughout that will keep you happy for weeks on end. There’s also on-site parking.
Downtown TC Townhouse
Families will do well at this central three-bedroom townhouse. You’re right in the heart of Traverse City, letting you walk to many of its top attractions and shopping areas. There’s also on-site parking available for added convenience. Just know that the top bedroom is more like a loft that comes with two twin beds and has plenty of kids’ toys.
[Just a heads-up: We may earn an affiliate commission when you make a purchase from a link in our articles.]