Mercato at Grand Traverse Commons
A historic 1885 asylum transformed into a charming village with shops, dining, and beautiful grounds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Mercato at Grand Traverse Commons
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1885 asylum transformed into a charming village with shops, dining, and beautiful grounds.
"The Grand Traverse Commons offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and modern village life."
Book Tours Early! 🎟️
Popular historical tours, especially those with tunnel access, sell out fast. Book online in advance!
Comfy Shoes are a Must! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds and through buildings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Building Tours
Various buildings within The Village
Explore the fascinating history of the former asylum through guided tours, including unique tunnel and building explorations.
Unique Shops & Dining
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
Discover a charming collection of boutiques, restaurants, bakeries, and wineries nestled within the historic architecture.
Arboretum & Hiking Trails
Grounds of Grand Traverse Commons
Wander through beautiful arboretum grounds and scenic hiking trails, especially stunning during the fall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tours in Advance
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours Early! 🎟️
Popular historical tours, especially those with tunnel access, sell out fast. Book online in advance!
Comfy Shoes are a Must! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds and through buildings.
Check Event Schedules 🎉
The Village hosts markets and festivals; check their website for dates and times.
Consider an Airbnb Stay 🏠
Some units within the historic buildings are available for rent on Airbnb. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours Early! 🎟️
Popular historical tours, especially those with tunnel access, sell out fast. Book online in advance!
Comfy Shoes are a Must! 👟
You'll be doing a lot of walking across the expansive grounds and through buildings.
Check Event Schedules 🎉
The Village hosts markets and festivals; check their website for dates and times.
Consider an Airbnb Stay 🏠
Some units within the historic buildings are available for rent on Airbnb. +1
Explore the Tunnels 🚇
The underground steam tunnels are a unique and often chilly highlight of the historical tours.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Grand Traverse Commons for its stunning historical architecture and the successful redevelopment into a vibrant village. The guided tours, particularly those exploring the tunnels and buildings, are highly recommended for their informative and engaging guides. Some find the tours a bit lecture-heavy, preferring more time exploring interiors, but overall, the experience is considered unique and worthwhile.
"Booked an hour long tour to learn some history relating to the asylum. Our guide, in this case, was Clover, and she was rather informative and helpful overall. She was well versed in the topics she discussed as part of the tour and was able to answer questions. While she didn't have to, she stayed behind to show me one last part of the tour we couldn't get to because our group went over time. She didn't have to do that, but she did, and to me, that shows she's dedicated to her community as well as interested in sharing the history of the asylum. She was also very mindful of the group. A lot of the people in our group were elderly/handicapped, and so she made sure everyone was as safe and comfortable as they could be. I'd say the tunnel was my favorite. It was rather cold, which I loved. I also booked a night tour with Natalie and Tony. Both of which were knowledgeable and considerate. The locations and history we were able to explore were rather nice. I'd say my favorite part was the graffiti in the basement of one of the men's ward buildings. Some glow in the dark. Tony has a very down to earth kind of energy, whereas Natalie is energetic and quirky. In short, I think most people can vibe very well with all the tour guides, lol"
David Skowron
"Wow what a tour! We've been wanting to take this tour but it was always sold out. We finally made reservations far enough in advance to finally do it. It was really made by our awesome tour guide Clover. She was so knowledgeable, engaging and funny! We will definitely do this tour again. Highly recommended."
Lee Ashworth
"We took the historical tour last week. Our guide shared an amazing amount of information about the facility, the residents and staff. You could tell she is very passionate about her job. Of particular interest was the tour of original men’s cottage that has not been redeveloped and the brick steam tunnel. I would recommend anyone interested in history, particularly in the treatment of mental health, take this tour while visiting Traverse City."
Cindy Dee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Village at Grand Traverse Commons is located in Traverse City, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors find it convenient to drive directly to the Commons.
While public transportation options might be limited, checking local Traverse City bus routes is advisable. However, most visitors opt for personal vehicles or ride-sharing services.
The Village is designed to be walkable, with shops and restaurants clustered together. For exploring the wider grounds and trails, comfortable shoes are a must.
Yes, there are parking areas available for visitors. During peak times or special events, parking can fill up, so arriving earlier is recommended.
It's a bit of a walk from downtown Traverse City to the Grand Traverse Commons, likely best suited for a longer stroll or bike ride. Driving or using a ride-share is more common.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Village grounds and most shops/restaurants is free. However, specific historical tours, like the building and tunnel tours, require tickets and should be booked in advance.
Tour prices can vary depending on the type and duration. It's best to check the official website for current pricing and booking information. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for guided tours.
The grounds are generally accessible, but individual shop and restaurant hours vary. Many businesses are open daily, with some having extended hours on weekends or for special events.
While some tours might have last-minute availability, it's highly recommended to book tickets online in advance as they frequently sell out.
Some tours, like the Twilight Tours, have an age restriction of 16+ (under 18 requires a guardian). Always check the specific tour details when booking.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore unique shops, dine at various restaurants, take historical tours of the former asylum buildings and tunnels, enjoy the arboretum, and hike the surrounding trails. +1
Yes, highly recommended guided tours delve into the history of the former asylum, including explorations of buildings and underground tunnels.
Yes, families can enjoy exploring the grounds, visiting shops, and some tours are suitable for older children. The open spaces and historical intrigue can be engaging.
Yes, some units within the historic buildings have been converted into apartments or condos available for rent, including on platforms like Airbnb. +1
The Village offers a diverse range of shops, including boutiques, gift shops, bookstores, and specialty stores.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Village boasts a variety of dining experiences, from upscale restaurants like Trattoria Stella to bakeries and cafes, offering something for every palate.
Most restaurants in the Village offer diverse menus that typically include vegetarian options. It's always best to check with the specific establishment for vegan choices.
Yes, there are cafes and bakeries within The Village that serve coffee, pastries, and other baked goods, perfect for a morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up.
The Grand Traverse Commons occasionally hosts outdoor markets, which may include food vendors. Check their event schedule for details.
Dining prices vary widely, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. You can find options to fit most budgets, from a quick bite to a full-service meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The Victorian architecture, the expansive grounds, and the unique tunnel interiors offer fantastic photo opportunities. The fall foliage is also a popular subject. +1
Photography policies can vary by tour and building. It's best to ask your tour guide for specific permissions regarding photos inside historical structures.
Generally, personal photography is allowed on the grounds. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits. Always check with management if unsure.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for the architecture and grounds. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing details.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and residential areas. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for a good amount of walking. The outdoor spaces provide room for kids to move around, and the unique architecture can spark their imagination. It's a great destination for a day trip that combines history, exploration, and a bit of fun.
👻 History & Ghost Enthusiasts
Look for specialized tours, such as the 'Twilight Tours,' which are often designed to explore the more atmospheric elements of the buildings and grounds. The graffiti in the basement of one of the men's ward buildings, some of which is glow-in-the-dark, is a particular point of interest for those seeking a more 'haunted' experience.
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
Food lovers will appreciate the diverse culinary offerings. From fine dining at Trattoria Stella to casual cafes and a renowned bakery, there are options to satisfy any craving. Enjoy a leisurely meal, sample local wines or ciders, and savor the flavors of Northern Michigan.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Grand Traverse Commons
Over the decades, the institution evolved, eventually becoming the Traverse City State Hospital. Facing changing philosophies in mental healthcare and the need for modernization, the hospital closed its doors in 1989. Fortunately, instead of demolition, a visionary redevelopment project transformed the site into The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, preserving its historical integrity while repurposing the buildings for modern use.
Today, visitors can delve into this rich history through guided tours that explore the repurposed buildings, the original steam tunnels, and even areas that remain untouched. These tours offer a poignant glimpse into the past, highlighting both the challenges and the innovative approaches to mental health treatment of the era.
Exploring The Village: Shops, Dining, and More
Food enthusiasts will delight in the diverse culinary scene. From the acclaimed Trattoria Stella, known for its Italian-inspired cuisine, to cozy cafes and a brick oven bakery, there are options for every craving. Enjoy a leisurely lunch, a romantic dinner, or simply grab a coffee and pastry while soaking in the atmosphere.
Beyond shopping and dining, The Village also hosts events like outdoor markets and festivals, adding to its dynamic appeal. It's a place where history meets contemporary life, offering a memorable experience for all visitors.
Outdoor Adventures at the Commons
Extensive hiking trails wind through the property and connect to nearby parks, providing opportunities for exploration and exercise. Whether you're looking for a short walk or a more vigorous hike, the Commons offers scenic routes that are particularly stunning during the autumn months when the foliage is at its peak.
These outdoor spaces provide a refreshing contrast to the historical architecture, allowing visitors to experience the full scope of the Grand Traverse Commons' transformation and its integration with the natural beauty of Northern Michigan.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit