Winter is better in Traverse City. From laidback bars where you can show off your trivia skills to the best mocha in town, here’s your checklist for winter fun in the Grand Traverse region.
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1. You’ll feel like you’re inside a snow globe at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Shop the Mercato then warm your soul with a mocha at Higher Grounds Trading Co.
2. Catch performances at Interlochen Center for the Arts. In February, the free, family-friendly Winterlochen festival has sledding, s’mores, art activities and a parade.
3. Gather at the Seven Hills community center on Old Mission Peninsula, home to Old Mission Distilling, a farm-to-table café Mission Proper and the art gallery Tinker Studio.
4. Settle in with a bourbon flight at Bourbons 72 in Turtle Creek Casino & Resort. Pair it with slow-roasted prime rib and a decadent slice of cheesecake.
5. The Traverse City Comedy Fest (Jan. 31–Feb. 3) features stand-up, improv, podcast tapings and specialty shows, welcoming national headliners and local and state favorites.
6. ’Tis the season of trivia. Show off your knowledge at Lil Bo, Rare Bird Brewpub, Stone Hound Brewing Co., Kilkenny’s, The Coin Slot, Fresh Coast Beer Works and Incredible Mo’s.