Downtown Traverse City serves as the cultural hub for the Grand Traverse Region. The historic City Opera House, art deco movie theatre in the heart of Downtown, outdoor excursions, and vibrant night life offer diverse entertainment with a little something for everyone.

CITY OPERA
HOUSE


Constructed in 1891, the City Opera House hosts exhibits, performance events, receptions, meetings and walk-in admirers. This historic landmark continues to undergo renovations and expanded to include a grand street-level lobby. See the beautiful City Opera House in a video here. Also learn more at the City Opera House website.

STATE
THEATRE


The award-winning, historic State Theatre offers films not found at most major theaters. This one-screen gem features weekly Traverse City Film Festival selects and seasonally free or discounted movies and first-run favorites. And don’t miss the best popcorn and snack deal around! (Those kernels are first rate.) See the schedule at the State Theatre website.

OLD TOWN PLAYHOUSE


Bringing quality theatre to Downtown Traverse City since 1960. Located just three blocks from Downtown Traverse City, the Old Town Playhouse season runs annually from September through May with a variety of productions in its 277-seat mainstage auditorium and 80-seat studio theatre. Visit the Old Town Playhouse website.


CROOKED TREE
ARTS CENTER


This always innovative and always changing art gallery brings fantastic and mesmerizing classes and pieces right to the heart of Downtown Traverse City. To learn more about their current exhibits and events, check out the Crooked Tree Arts Center website.

VISITOR
RESOURCES


Three convenient visitor and information centers are located minutes from each other. The Visitor Center is operated by Traverse City Tourism and is open to answer questions, make reservations, or offer guidance. 

Traverse Connect promotes economic development hub for the region, providing research, data and information. 

The Downtown TC Office (our office) is located at 303 E. State Street. From information on downtown projects to a list of retailers or events, our office offers a variety of downtown details.

TRAVERSE CITY
PHILHARMONIC


Founded in 1952, the TC Phil (formerly the TSO) is northern Michigan’s leading regional performing arts ensemble. It is a paid, professional orchestra of 60+ contracted members with a core base of quality musicians from throughout the area. The TC Phil is committed to presenting the finest in musical entertainment and quality educational programs.


HIT THE
WATER


Ride the waves, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or slip on a suit for the beach. Downtown offers stunning views and crystal clear waters for water lovers. Plan a perfect day at Clinch Park.

NATIONAL
CHERRY FESTIVAL


The National Cherry Festival celebrates all things cherry during this one-week, entertainment-filled festival in July. Learn more at the National Cherry Festival website.

UP NORTH
PRIDE


Traverse City is proud to be a diverse and inclusive community. Up North Pride celebrates Pride Month in June and the Up North Pride Celebration in September with a full week of events.


NIGHT
LIFE


Downtown Traverse City remains the place to be and be seen when it comes to nightlife. After dining downtown, catch a movie or a performance, watch the sun set at Clinch Park, or toast the night at a variety of after-hours hotspots.

OPT
OUTSIDE


Downtown Traverse City is the city center for shopping and entertainment, but the outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the downtown playground as well. Keep active outside in nature’s brilliance! See more of the area’s outdoor offerings here.

MYNORTH
TICKETS


A one-stop shop for purchasing tickets for performing arts venues. Browse the MyNorth Tickets link to see what is taking shape in the Grand Traverse region. Expand your downtown excursion with a festive event or show!