Traverse City Open Space
A vibrant waterfront park on West Grand Traverse Bay, offering a beach, splash pad, pier, and event space.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Traverse City Open Space
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant waterfront park on West Grand Traverse Bay, offering a beach, splash pad, pier, and event space.
"A true highlight of the city, perfect for sunsets, picnics, and family fun."
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available, but can be a walk from the beach. Sundays are often free!
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Bring swimsuits and towels for the kids; it's a major attraction!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
West Grand Traverse Bay Views
Shoreline
Stunning waterfront vistas perfect for sunset watching and leisurely strolls along the bay.
Splash Pad & Play Area
Children's play zone
A delightful water park with sprayers and fun features, a hit with younger visitors.
Logo Garden
Central lawn area
Vibrant seasonal flower displays, often featuring creative designs by the Friendly Garden Club.
Concrete Pier
Overlooking the marina
Offers great views of the marina and bay, ideal for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Access & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available, but can be a walk from the beach. Sundays are often free!
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Bring swimsuits and towels for the kids; it's a major attraction!
📅 Event Check
The park hosts events like the Cherry Festival and fitness classes. Check schedules!
🚶♀️ Downtown Access
Use the pedestrian tunnel for easy access to downtown shops and restaurants.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Paid parking is available, but can be a walk from the beach. Sundays are often free!
💧 Splash Pad Fun
Bring swimsuits and towels for the kids; it's a major attraction!
📅 Event Check
The park hosts events like the Cherry Festival and fitness classes. Check schedules!
🚶♀️ Downtown Access
Use the pedestrian tunnel for easy access to downtown shops and restaurants.
🛶 Water Rentals
Kayaks are available for rent by the hour, perfect for exploring the bay.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Traverse City Open Space for its beautiful waterfront location, family-friendly amenities like the splash pad, and convenient access to downtown. It's highlighted as a clean, well-maintained park perfect for sunsets, picnics, and enjoying the bay. Some note that parking can be a bit of a walk from the beach.
"Beautiful, easily accessible park with plenty of fun activities for children of all ages available. Wonderful concrete pier with plenty of benches overlooking a marina and the blue waters of West Grand Traverse Bay. Perfect place for watching sunsets, having picnics and walking. One of the true highlights of the city!"
Roger Roberts, Jr.
"Excellent public park on the shoreline of Traverse City. Family-friendly, including pavilions for bathroom as well as a splash pad area for the kids.
This area hosts the annual Cherry Festival and is an excellent place to view the afternoon airshow.
There is a pedestrian tunnel connecting the park to downtown, and is handicapped accessible, so you don't have to cross traffic."
Dave Skorupski
"Amazing. Across the street from the water and it's a little water park with sprayers and an arch that sprays below! There's a unique merry go round and some spinners... just super cute! Our 4 years old loved it!"
Christee Regalado
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily walk from downtown Traverse City using the convenient pedestrian tunnel that connects the park to the city, avoiding traffic.
Yes, there is paid parking available. However, some visitors note that parking isn't always very close to the beach area. Sundays are often free for parking.
Absolutely! The park is integrated with bike paths, making it a great destination for cyclists exploring Traverse City.
Yes, the park is designed to be handicapped accessible, including the pedestrian tunnel, ensuring everyone can enjoy the space.
It's located on the shoreline of West Grand Traverse Bay, easily identifiable by its waterfront location and proximity to downtown.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Traverse City Open Space is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy.
Yes, there are seasonal lifeguards on duty at the beach, providing a safer environment for swimmers.
The splash pad is a seasonal amenity, typically operating during the warmer months. Specific hours can vary, so it's best to check locally.
For general park visits, no booking is required. However, if you plan to rent kayaks or attend specific events, advance arrangements might be necessary.
While dogs are common in Traverse City, specific leash rules and areas where dogs are permitted within the Open Space should be checked locally to ensure compliance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Families can enjoy the splash pad, build sandcastles on the beach, have picnics, and explore the playground. The pier also offers great views.
Yes, the Open Space is adjacent to downtown Traverse City, which is filled with numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries.
The park is a popular venue for events like the National Cherry Festival airshow, fitness classes, and dog shows.
Kayaks are available for hourly rental, offering a fun way to experience West Grand Traverse Bay.
The waterfront, the pier, the Logo Garden, and during sunset offer fantastic photo opportunities.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, especially during sunset, provides stunning light over West Grand Traverse Bay. Early mornings are also great for fewer crowds and soft light.
The shoreline with its bay views, the concrete pier, the colorful Logo Garden, and the splash pad area are all popular subjects.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, some creators have encountered security regarding filming, so it's wise to be mindful of your surroundings.
Drone usage is often restricted in public parks and near populated areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
You can capture wide-angle shots of the expansive bay, reflections on the water, and the distant shoreline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to utilize the pedestrian tunnel for easy access to downtown Traverse City, where you can find plenty of family-friendly dining options.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Explorers
Enjoy a stroll along the bay, capture stunning sunset photos, or explore the vibrant Logo Garden. Combine your visit with a walk through the charming downtown shops and restaurants just a short tunnel ride away.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
The pier provides unique angles for water and marina shots. While personal photography is generally welcome, be mindful of filming regulations, as some creators have encountered security.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Waterfront
For those looking to get out on the water, kayak rentals are available by the hour, allowing you to paddle along the bay and experience Traverse City from a different perspective.
Pro Tip: The sunsets over West Grand Traverse Bay from the Open Space are legendary. Plan your visit for the late afternoon to catch this spectacular natural display.
Family Fun and Play
Beyond the water features, the park offers picnic tables and open grassy areas, perfect for a family lunch or a relaxing afternoon. The pedestrian tunnel connecting to downtown is a thoughtful addition, allowing families to easily access amenities and explore the city without crossing busy streets.
Community Insight: Many parents on Reddit mention that the splash pad is the main reason they visit, and their kids absolutely love it. It's a well-maintained and engaging area for younger visitors.
Events and Community Hub
The park also serves as a stage for other community gatherings, from fitness classes like Zumba and Strong Nation to dog shows like the Ultimate Air Dog Show.
+1 The Logo Garden, planted with thousands of annuals, adds seasonal beauty and often showcases creative designs, making it a picturesque backdrop for events and everyday enjoyment. Planning Tip: Always check the local Traverse City event calendar before your visit. Attending an event can add a unique dimension to your experience, but be prepared for larger crowds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit