NORTHERN MICHIGAN LIFESTYLE

Serving a primarily rural area filled with spacious townships, the efficient transportation system in Northwest Michigan includes a network of state routes, highways, and interstate expressways. The Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City is the region’s largest commercial air-travel facility, providing passenger, freight forwarding, air cargo, and air courier service. The flights double each summer, providing more frequent connections to major hubs like Chicago O’Hare and Detroit Metropolitan Airport to accommodate vacationers and visitors. Accessible, quality transportation facilities are no doubt one of the magnets drawing new businesses to the region.

While Grand Traverse County and its leading municipality of Traverse City have traditionally served as the hub of the region’s economic activity, the acceleration of development is reaching into neighboring rural counties. Revitalization and suburban amenities are springing up in every corner of the region, from the renovated streetscape in Elk Rapids to Kalkaska’s new Village Station shopping plaza or the office and shopping center of Brewery Creek in Elmwood Township. This five-county area shares a diverse economy that blends manufacturing and light industry with agriculture, services, retail, recreation, and retail. The advent of e-commerce and the Internet has made this area a popular one for telecommuters from around the world who appreciate small-town charm surrounded by premier recreational opportunities.

Downhill and cross-country skiing, sledding and tubing, Lake Michigan water sports and boating, and some of the nation’s finest golf courses are just a few examples of the exceptional leisure activities. Hikers, bikers, campers, equestrians, bird-watchers, naturalists, hunters, and anglers will find an abundance of wooded trails and natural areas that are ideal for the sports enthusiast. The cultural community is well developed in Traverse City, home to a significant number of artists and gifted artisans. Wonderful galleries, fine museums, and venues for the performing arts harmonize with old-fashioned picnics, free summer concerts, seasonal celebrations, and annual events to offer a calendar filled with dates to remember.

The housing selection is as diverse as the region itself, providing remarkably affordable opportunities for lakefront views, expansive acreage, or woodland seclusion. Historic homes in the heart of town, suburban neighborhoods, upscale enclaves, and multi-family developments are just a few of the possibilities in this land-rich area. Those who enjoy four-season recreation, a warm and friendly small-town atmosphere, and the excitement of a growing and evolving economy will find a wonderland of surprises waiting in the Traverse City Region.