Petrosky or Traverse City?

Question

if you could only pick one place to stay on a road trip (going from west to east) which place would you pick for 1-2 nights and why?

Thanks!

Answer

If you have to choose between Petoskey and Traverse City for a 1-2 night stay on a west-to-east Michigan road trip, the choice depends on what kind of experience you want and the timing of your trip.

Traverse City: Traverse City is larger and more bustling, offering a wider variety of dining, shopping, and activities. It’s known for its access to Sleeping Bear Dunes, excellent wineries, and lakefront charm. For a short stay, you can enjoy both nature and a lively town atmosphere.

Close to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for hiking, scenic overlooks, and dune climbs.
Downtown Traverse City has boutique shops, local breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants.
Larger selection of accommodations, making it easier to book last-minute stays.
Access to bayfront beaches and water activities for a relaxing afternoon.

Petoskey: Petoskey is a smaller, more relaxed town with a charming historic downtown. It’s quieter than Traverse City and perfect for leisurely walks, boutique shopping, and exploring nearby Little Traverse Bay. Petoskey is especially appealing if you want a low-key evening or enjoy scenic drives along the Tunnel of Trees (M-119) nearby.

Historic downtown with Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and local cafes.
Close proximity to the Tunnel of Trees drive to Cross Village for incredible fall foliage or scenic drives.
Smaller and more intimate, ideal for a peaceful evening away from larger tourist crowds.
Access to Little Traverse Bay beaches for a relaxing sunset or walk along the water.

Recommendation: For a short 1-2 night stop on a west-to-east road trip, Traverse City often makes the most practical choice. It combines natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a variety of dining options, making it easy to fill a short stay with memorable experiences. Petoskey is ideal if you prefer a quieter, scenic stop with a more intimate small-town feel and enjoy scenic drives like the Tunnel of Trees.