Driving from Grand Rapids

Question

This is so last minute! We are getting out of the Texas heat and headed your way. Flying into Grand Rapids and will ultimately stay in Traverse City. My question is we could take the short route US131 to TC or take 31 which is longer. Is there anything to see along the route and is it worth the extra time. Also, if you think there is another town to stay in beside TC?

Answer

Driving from Grand Rapids to Traverse City offers a couple of different routes, each with its own experience. The most direct route is via US-131 north, which is faster and takes roughly 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic. If you’re looking for scenery and small-town stops, taking M-31 (and connecting through M-22 along the way) is longer—about 5 to 5.5 hours—but can be much more scenic, especially along the Lake Michigan shoreline.

Here are some highlights and options along the M-31/M-22 route:

Holland: If you take a slightly westerly detour off US-31, Holland has charming Dutch-themed streets, bakeries, and the scenic Windmill Island Gardens.
Lakeshore views: M-22 hugs the Lake Michigan shoreline in many sections, offering beautiful vistas, beaches, and dune areas near towns like Pentwater and Ludington.
Ludington State Park: Great for a quick walk or picnic, with forested trails and shoreline views. Ferries to Manitowoc, WI also depart from here if you ever consider a side trip.
Small towns and wineries: The area around Leelanau Peninsula has charming towns like Suttons Bay and Leland, with local wineries and boutique shops that are worth stopping at.

If you want to break up the drive, some towns other than Traverse City where you could stay include:

Leland: Quaint, historic fishing village with access to Lake Michigan and short drive to TC.
Suttons Bay: Small town with wineries, galleries, and marinas, about 20–25 minutes north of Traverse City.
Frankfort/Elberta: On the Lake Michigan coast, a quiet place with beaches and parks if you want a more relaxed overnight stop.

In summary, if your priority is speed and convenience, US-131 is the better option. If you have a few extra hours and want to enjoy scenic stops, small-town charm, lakeside views, and perhaps a winery visit, taking M-31/M-22 is well worth it. Many travelers combine the two: drive US-131 north for efficiency, then detour onto M-22 for a scenic stretch closer to Traverse City.

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