While the tourists in Traverse City are exploring new activities in the city, you will find plenty of locals relaxing at the beach. Traverse City is situated right on the edge of Lake Michigan, where you can find one of the biggest lakes in the world right in front of you. The lake is so big that you will feel like you are standing on the shore of an ocean and not a lake. There are several spots in the area where you will find locals hanging out by the water. Clinch Park is one such place that is the perfect combination of lakeshore and park. Clinch Park is often the area’s most popular beach with over 1,500 feet of beautiful sand. Set up a spot where you can soak up the sunshine or jump into the water so you can cool off and splash around. Clinch Park has everything that your family will want to stay entertained. The park features a splash pad for the little ones, and there are concession stands to help keep the hunger away, allowing you to stay in the area longer. You will also find picnic tables, playground equipment, restrooms, and more. There is no better spot for a little time by the beach.

Another great way the locals enjoy cooling off during the month of August is by hitting up the local breweries. Traverse City is home to tons of locally owned craft breweries which make small batches of craft beer. The adults will love to explore the many breweries by trying out a tasting flight at each spot they visit. Tank Space on 8th is a satellite location for Earthen Ales and features a wonderful taproom to visit. You will be able to try out their handcrafted ales and enjoy them inside with the incredible artwork decorating the walls or take it outside on the patio. If you prefer more traditional beers, head on down to Silver Spruce Brewing Company. They keep it simple with traditional styles of beer such as lagers with a well-rounded tap list for everyone to enjoy. The owners come from Asheville, another beer mecca, so you know that the beer will be good. Downtown Traverse City has plenty of options for breweries, so make your own little beer tour during your visit!

While the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a top tourist destination, it is always best visited during the month of August when the summer crowds start to thin out. Locals know this is the best time to visit as you can enjoy cool, crisp summer temps with daily highs in the mid-70s, perfect for a visit to this local park. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful national parks maintained in the country and will be a favorite of yours. It gets its namesake from the tall sandy dunes that can be found on the shores of the park. Your family will have a blast climbing up the dunes and getting panoramic views of Traverse City and the lakeshore. The park also features winding hiking trails that will have you further explore it including finding a lighthouse nearby. The month of August is when locals visit this beautiful area.

There are plenty of ways to explore Traverse City, but locals know that the TART trail system is the way to do it. The TART, also known as the Traverse Area Recreation Trail, is a system of multiuse trails here in the area. This is the ideal bike path that will take you around all of Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties with ease. The trails are also popular for runners looking to get in their morning run. The trails snake through Traverse City and along the waterfront, making for a picturesque journey.