2023 Fall Activities Near Traverse City, MI You Need to Know

A new season means new possibilities to explore the surrounding area! The weather is getting colder and the aroma of pumpkin spice is back - hello, fall! Here at Leelanau Pines Lakeside Camping Resort, we have an abundance of fall events and activities planned right at our Michigan campground, but there's also plenty of other events your family must try! Less than 30 minutes from our Camp-Resort, Traverse City offers an array of fall activities that are great for families! What are you waiting for?! Grab your fall jacket and explore all of the fall events in Traverse City!

Sleeping Bear Dunes Free Admission Day: September 25, 2023

What is a trip to Northern Michigan without a stop at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore?! As you look for fall activities near Leelanau Pines Campground, be sure to take advantage of the free admission day to this beautiful national park. Take in sights of the bluffs and miles of sand beaches, and if you’re feeling adventurous, check out some of our top recommended hiking trails.

Photo credits to Crystal Mountain

Crystal Mountain Chairlift Rides: Weekends 2023

Arguably one of the best parts of the season in Northern Michigan is the fall foliage. Get a bird’s eye view of the changing hues by taking a fall chairlift ride at Crystal Mountain. During your ride, you’ll get to enjoy panoramic views spanning three different counties. This fall activity near Traverse City is sure to be a favorite!

Annual Build a Scarecrow Family Fun Day & Contest: October 1, 2023

What is the best crop for a scarecrow to stand watch over? It beets me. But, with the Annual Build a Scarecrow Family Fun Day & Contest, your family has the chance to build a scarecrow that will stand watch over The Botanic Garden at Historic Barns Park! This family-friendly fall activity in Traverse City will give your family a chance to bond over building a scarecrow and enjoying fall cider and donuts. All basic construction materials for the scarecrow will be provided, just bring your own scarecrow attire, decorations, and your creativity!

Sleeping Bear Run: October 7, 2023

Looking for a way to stay active during your stay at the Leelanau Pines Campground? Look no further than the Sleeping Bear Run! During the peak of the color season in Northern Michigan, the Sleeping Bear Run will take you along the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Experience this national park in a different way as you run past scenic overlooks and vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows!

Photo credits to The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

Outdoor Craft & Vendor Show: October 14, 2023

Embrace the cultural side of Traverse City by attending the Outdoor Craft & Vendor Show hosted by The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. This historic front lawn will be filled with vendors supplying art, foods, jewelry and more! There is sure to be something that people of all ages will enjoy at this fall event in Traverse City!

Photo Credits to Black Star Farms

Black Star Farms Fall Wagon Rides: October 15, 2023

Head to Black Star Farms for a fall event that the whole family is sure to love! Black Star Farms is hosting fall wagon rides to celebrate 25 years serving the community on October 15th. Enjoy fresh donuts and mulled wine or hot cider before taking a 30-minute ride past the vineyard, fall colors, and cherry orchard. This is a great thing to do in Traverse City that you won't want to miss.

The Hunt for the Reds of October: Weekdays in October

Fall in Michigan is famous for bold reds, and this extends beyond just leaves! Traverse City is known for its quality wine, so explore the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail through the Hunt for the Reds of October event. With eighteen participating wineries, this fall activity near Traverse City is sure to make a splash!

When you plan to stay at Leelanau Pines Lakeside Camping Resort, there are always exciting activities and events in Traverse City that the whole family will love! Plus, the fall activities in Traverse City are a must-try - so be sure to book a fall camping trip to our Michigan camping resort to see all the events that Traverse City has to offer. You can browse availability or book your fall stay here.