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Grand Traverse County is weighing a new 10-year trails millage that would bolster non-motorized transportation options for area residents.

County commissioners will soon decide whether to place a 0.3-mill levy on the November ballot; if passed, it would generate about $2.6 million each year for local trail improvements.

Homeowners with a $100,000 property would pay roughly $15 annually.

Funds would support trail construction, planning, maintenance, property acquisition, and program management.

Supporters like TART Trails CEO Julie Clark say the push reflects a decades-long conversation now gaining momentum as the region prioritizes safer non-motorized routes.

Potential projects include the Three Mile Trail extension and the Interlochen Community Art Trail, with future plans for a separated trail along Five Mile Road.

This investment aims to improve connectivity, health, and quality of life as the community grows.

This Weekend Outing

Weather this Weekend:
Friday, June 26 is shaping up to be a pleasant Grand Traverse day, with highs near 72° and a mix of clouds and sun. It should be a good day for outdoor plans, local events, patio dining, and exploring around Traverse City or the bay. As always, check current wind and water conditions before heading out on Grand Traverse Bay.

Saturday, June 27 looks mild around Grand Traverse, with highs near 75° and a mix of clouds through the day. Morning plans look fairly good, but showers may move through during the afternoon, so keep a backup plan handy for events, patio dining, or family outings. Evening conditions may improve again, making it worth checking the latest forecast before heading out.

Here's Your Game Plan For This Weekend

Daytime: For a unique daytime activity in the Grand Traverse area, head to Kayak, Bike & Brew.

This company offers guided kayak tours along the Boardman River, followed by a leisurely bike ride to local breweries for tastings.

It's a fun and active way to explore the natural beauty and craft beer scene of the area. Dining: For a dining experience, don't miss out on The Cooks’ House.

This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Enjoy dishes like smoked whitefish rillette or braised lamb shoulder in a cozy and intimate setting.

The attention to detail in each dish makes dining here a truly special experience.

Nightlife: After dinner, head to  The Little Fleet for some nighttime entertainment.

This outdoor bar features a rotating lineup of food trucks, craft cocktails, and live music.

Grab a drink, sample some delicious bites, and enjoy the lively atmosphere under the stars.

It's the perfect way to unwind and socialize after a day of adventure.

Rainy Day: If the weather turns gloomy, spend the day at the Dennos Museum Center.

This museum is home to a diverse collection of art, cultural artifacts, and interactive exhibits.

From contemporary art to regional history, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Immerse yourself in creativity and knowledge while staying dry indoors.

A fresh twist on Traverse City’s dining landscape is coming as Bonobo Winery and Dojo Sushi team up to launch a sushi bar and tasting room at 115 Franklin Street downtown.

This unique spot will blend Bonobo’s acclaimed wines with the remarkable flavors of Dojo Sushi, all in an intimate setting designed for 25-30 guests plus a relaxed outdoor area with stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay.

Visitors can expect a curated list of Bonobo red, white, and sparkling wines, inventive cocktails, and a sushi bar where diners can watch skilled chefs at work.

Takeout will be available, making it easy to enjoy premium sushi and wine at home.

This marks a major step for Bonobo Winery, expanding from its Old Mission Peninsula roots into the heart of the city, with a mid-July opening targeted.

Local food lovers can look forward to a fresh, vibrant addition just in time for summer.

"The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes." - Marcel Proust

Introducing Rhysand: The Playful and Affectionate Black Kitten in Search of a Forever Home

Share Your Experience

We're looking for local Residents to share their Grand Traverse Experiences.

You might have a favor Restaurant, Nightclub, Experience, Recipe, favorite adventure, our Readers are looking for more that an event they what the memories that make it Grand. Share on our platform and let the whole area know what memories you made.

Our readers have some of the greatest experiences in in Northern Michigan, share them with others

Contact us via email: [email protected]

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Want to try this week’s AI Prompt?

You can use the free version of ChatGPT to copy, paste, and run these prompts for everyday help with meals, chores, local business posts, family ideas, thank-you notes, recipes, and more.

Just visit ChatGPT, sign up for a free account, paste in the prompt, and let AI help make your day a little easier.

Local Restaurant Finder Prompt:

“Help me choose a restaurant in the Grand Traverse area based on budget, food style, atmosphere, and who I’m going with.”

You can change "Grand Traverse" to any area you like to pin point too.

July 4: Opening Day, Air Show, David Lee Roth, 4th of July Fireworks

The festival kicks off with Opening Ceremonies, Cherry Farm Market, Kids Club, Festival Open Space Park, the Air Show over West Grand Traverse Bay, David Lee Roth with Ayron Jones, and a large 4th of July fireworks show at 10:30 PM. The Air Show runs July 4–5 from 1–4 PM over West Grand Traverse Bay. (National Cherry Festival)

July 5: Air Show, Arts & Crafts Fair, Classic Car Show, Bow Wow & Soulja Boy

A strong family day with the Arts & Crafts Fair, Classic Car Show, Cherry Farm Market, Kids Club, Arnold’s Amusements Midway, and the second day of the Air Show. Bow Wow & Soulja Boy perform at 6 PM. (National Cherry Festival)

July 6: Cherry Pie Bike Ride, Orchard Tours, Princess Tea, Chase Matthew & Lauren Alaina

A great day for readers who want the local cherry-country experience. Orchard Tours & More gives visitors a closer look at the region’s orchards, and the evening concert features Chase Matthew & Lauren Alaina from 6–10 PM. (National Cherry Festival)

July 7: Kids Pet Show, POWWOW, A Very Fairy Cherry JamBerry, KC and The Sunshine Band

This day has a fun mix of kids activities, culture, and music. The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians POWWOW is a special highlight, and KC and The Sunshine Band with The Spinners perform at 6 PM. (National Cherry Festival)

July 8: Farmers Market, Milk Carton Boat Regatta, Royal Fashion Show, The Fray

A quirky and memorable festival day with the Milk Carton Boat Regatta, Sara Hardy’s Farmers Market, Cherry Luncheon events, kids activities, and The Fray with Augustana in the evening. (National Cherry Festival)

July 9: DTE Energy Day, Ultimate Air Dogs, Rubber Duck Race, Bed Race, Community Royale Parade, Daughtry

One of the busiest community days, with family-friendly events, dog-jumping action, the Rubber Duck Race, Bed Race, Cherry Kids Fun Run, Consumers Energy Community Royale Parade, and Daughtry in concert. (National Cherry Festival)

July 10: Cherry Golf Scramble, Diaper Derby, Queen’s Coronation, Justin Moore & Easton Corbin

Friday brings a mix of family events, Cherry Farm Market, Kids Club, Ultimate Air Dogs, Queen’s Coronation, cherry contests, and a big country night with Justin Moore and Easton Corbin. (National Cherry Festival)

July 11: Meijer Festival of Races, Cherry Royale Parade, Ludacris, Festival Fireworks Finale

The final day includes the Meijer Festival of Races, Sara Hardy’s Farmers Market, Cherry Farm Market, Kids Club, Ultimate Air Dogs, DTE Energy Foundation Cherry Royale Parade, Ludacris, T.C. Swing Dance By The Bay, and the Festival Fireworks Finale at 10:30 PM. (National Cherry Festival)

Ongoing July 4–11: Beer Tent, Cherry Farm Market, Kids Club, Midway, Festival Open Space Park

Throughout the week, readers can enjoy festival staples like the Cherry Farm Market, Kids Club, Arnold’s Amusements Midway, Open Space Park activities, and the Beer Tent at Open Space Park from noon to 10:30 PM for ages 21+. (National Cherry Festival)