Specialty Food Stores in Traverse City & Nearby Towns

Food is a love language, and Northern Michigan is fluent in it. Thanks to our region’s rich soil and farm-to-table culture, we’re home to an abundance of fresh, locally made products. Let’s explore some destinations where you can shop for local foods and specialty products.

For a farm-fresh experience, stop by Groleau’s Farm Market in Traverse City, which also serves fresh soups, pies, and ice cream! Alternatively, head to Lynn & Perin Mercantile in Frankfort for specialty products and locally sourced goods, or visit Great Lakes Tea and Spice to explore a world of unique flavors. For a more fruit-focused experience (yes, we’re talking cherries), step into Benjamin Twiggs in Traverse City or Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor and explore cherries transformed into jams, salsas, and even cherry wine. Did someone say, “Cheese, please?” Northern Michigan is spoiled with gourmet, small-batch cheeses, from The Cheese Lady in Traverse City to Leelanau Cheese, a creamery specializing in award-winning raclette. For those with a sweet tooth, satisfy your cravings with handmade confections from Murdick’s Fudge and Grocer’s Daughter Chocolate, a small-batch chocolatier dedicated to ethically sourced cocoa. Or, stop by and pick up a fresh pie at Grand Traverse Pie Company. 

Whether you’re searching for a delicious souvenir or just love indulging in the local flavors, there is a taste of Michigan around every corner.

Outdoor Gear & Adventure Outfitters Across Northern Michigan

Northern Michigan is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and home to many of our own. Whether you’re hiking the dunes, paddling the lakes, hitting the slopes, or just embracing the pure Michigan active lifestyle, the region is home to a handful of quality outdoor outfitters who make gearing up for any adventure a breeze.

If you’re planning a camping, hiking, or paddling trip, Backcountry North is your go-to for quality gear and expert advice. If you’re looking for apparel to feel good and look good, visit Crystal Lake Adventure Sports in Frankfort and M22, with locations in Traverse City & Glen Arbor. And for an all-around surf store, Sleeping Bear Surf in Empire is stocked with cold water essentials, boards, and more. In the cold weather months look for ski gear at Don Orr Ski & Beach Haus or Boyne Country Sports, where you’ll find everything from high-performance equipment to stylish apparel.

Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or just getting started, Northern Michigan’s outdoor gear shops are an adventure in themselves. So, what are you waiting for? Get outside and embrace the season’s adventures.

Local Artisans & Handmade Goods in Traverse City and Beyond

Traverse City and nearby towns are home to talented artisans crafting everything from pottery and textiles to jewelry and custom woodworking. If you love handmade pieces, this region is filled with specialty shops and galleries for you.

For handcrafted, gemstone and Michigan beach stone jewelry, visit Becky Thatcher Designs with retail locations in Traverse City, Glen Arbor and Leland. Silver Fox Jewelry in The Village has simple, unique and affordable finds. If you’re looking for a curated collection of handmade goods from local and global artisans, stop by My Secret Stash in Traverse City,  Poppy Things in Suttons Bay, or Leelanau Goods. These shops are filled with artisan-crafted gifts, stationery, and home décor—because there is just something so special about finding a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

Art Galleries & Creative Shops to Explore in Northern Michigan

If you’re passionate about exploring unique artwork and the stories behind it, Northern Michigan’s art galleries and shops offer a vibrant and diverse scene. There are galleries featuring the work of select artists like Focus Gallery where you’ll find photographer Drew Smith and wildlife artist Carl Freeman in downtown Frankfort. While in Benzie visit Presscraft Papers home to the famous Gwen Frostic Prints. If you enjoy browsing a mix of art forms, from pottery to jewelry, check out Higher Art Gallery, Two Fish Gallery, Twisted Fish Gallery, and the quaint Polish Art Center. For ceramic artists, Sporck Tileart showcases unique tile art, while Benjamin Maier Ceramics offers beautifully handcrafted pottery. And if you’re looking to get creative yourself, Crooked Tree Art Center, Oliver Art Center, and Old Art Building host a variety of workshops and programs to explore year round.

Whether you’re admiring fine art, discovering handcrafted goods, or getting hands-on experience, Northern Michigan’s art scene has something for every creative spirit.

Antique Stores & Vintage Finds Throughout Northern Michigan

Let’s go antiquing! If you love browsing vintage finds, estate treasures, and architectural salvage, Northern Michigan has plenty of gems to explore.

In Traverse City, explore quirky home décor, furniture, lighting and architectural salvage at Antiquities Warehouse. For the traditional antique hunter or vintage collector, you don’t want to miss Wilson’s Antiques, which has two huge locations – in downtown Traverse City and Acme. Some of the best treasures are found in the smaller towns off the beaten path. Explore The Miser’s Hoard in Empire, The Elberta Mercantile Co., or The Barn Swallow at Crystal Gardens on M22 near Crystal Lake. For those who appreciate a mix of rustic treasures and fine antiques, travel up the bay to Elk Rapids, home to Blue Owl Antiques, Elk Rapids Antiques, and Harbor Antiques Mall, a multi-vendor antique mall.

Whether you’re a collector or just enjoy the thrill of the hunt, Northern Michigan’s antique and resale shops are packed with rare finds and timeless decor waiting to be uncovered.

Home, Garden & Gift Shops in Traverse City & Surrounding Areas

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a sucker for home décor and gifts—and if there’s a plant involved, I’m definitely buying it. Whether you’re searching for upscale pieces, colorful statements, or a succulent to brighten up your home, Northern Michigan has a boutique for your taste.

For elegant, high-end home furnishings and decor, check out Urban Diversions or Woodland Creek Furniture featuring custom locally-made furniture. For gifty things stop by Nifty Things with several locations in the area. Decorate your beach cottage or find an up North themed gift for a friend. And for my fellow plant lovers, you won’t want to miss Premier Floral Design, Moonstruck Gardens, I’m Planty AF, or Lilies of the Alley—each offering stunning fresh arrangements or plants and botanical-themed home goods. If eye-catching art for the yard or garden is your thing don’t miss Bayside Gallery, in Suttons Bay. Just look for their whimsical outdoor display.

No matter your aesthetic, these home, garden, and gift shops are filled with fun finds just waiting to make their way into your space.

Unique Boutiques & Local Apparel in Traverse City and Beyond

Grab your friends and hit the boutiques! For a one-stop boutique experience, head to The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, where you’ll find a variety of independent shops, from high-end apparel to locally designed fashion. For women’s clothing and accessories, stop by Haven, and for unique men’s gifts, check out The Haberdashery. Downtown Traverse City is home to a diverse mix of shops. Give the gift of cigars from Nolan’s Tobacco & Cigar Bar, visit Glitz and Spurs, where country western meets shabby chic, and Haystacks, known for its signature reversible skirts and unique prints made in Leelanau County—a must-visit for those who love versatile, statement fashion. If your style leans toward coastal and casual, visit Leland’s Fishtown, where you’ll find Tug Stuff, Leland Gal and Leland Harbor House for beach-inspired apparel and accessories—plus, you can even grab an ice cream while you shop!

From classic and timeless to bold and trendy, Northern Michigan’s boutiques make shopping an experience as unique as the styles they offer.

Vintage Clothing & Upcycled Fashion in Northern Michigan

Thrifting will never go out of style, and Northern Michigan’s vintage and upcycled fashion scene proves just that. Whether you’re after curated vintage pieces, secondhand brand-forward fashion, or upcycled finds, there’s a shop waiting for you to explore.

For one-of-a-kind vintage outfits, head to Penny Lane or Slip.Vintage—both known for their handpicked retro fashion and timeless statement pieces. If you’re after affordable and trendy secondhand fashion in Traverse City, check out Evergreen Consignment or Zany Consignment, which has two locations in town. If a bargain is what you’re shopping for, explore the extensive selections at Women’s Resource Center and Goodwill Northern Michigan. With ever-changinginventory, you never know what hidden gems you’ll find—and that’s the thrill of thrifting.

Independent Bookstores & Record Shops in the Traverse City Area

If you love losing yourself in a great book or finding yourself in a song, Northern Michigan’s independent bookstores and record shops offer the perfect escape.

Start your book tour in downtown Traverse City at Horizon Books, where you can sip a coffee from the café while browsing the shelves. Then, head to Brilliant Books, home to Brilliant Books Monthly, a personalized book club that delivers hand-selected titles based on your preferences straight to your door. From there, visit Bay Books in Suttons Bay, The Folded Leaf in Cedar, Dog Ears Books in Northport, Cottage Book Shop in Glen Arbor, The Bookstore in Frankfort, and Landmark Books inside The Village—each offering a thoughtfully curated selection of new, used, or rare books.

For vinyl lovers, Traverse City is home to Eugene’s Record Co-op, an indie record shop where you’ll find classic records, and RPM Records, a hidden gem that carries a fantastic variety of new and used vinyl, equipment, plus other music collectibles.

Whether you’re searching for a first edition, a classic, or a collectible, Northern Michigan’s bookstores and record shops are filled with stories waiting to be discovered.

Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Shops Across Northern Michigan

We only get one planet, and as consumers, we have the power to support businesses that align with our values. Sustainability isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making small, meaningful changes where we can.

If that change starts with fashion, check out Yana Dee in Traverse City, where you’ll find sustainable, ethically made apparel crafted from natural fabrics. In Suttons Bay, Wild Lettie offers fun stationery, eco-conscious gear, and accessories—all made by women, for women, and 100% plastic-free packaging.

For those looking to reduce waste at home, stop by The Refillery for zero-waste household and personal care products. Into farm-fresh remedies? Light of Day Organic Farm & Tea Shop specializes in locally grown organic teas and herbal wellness blends, while Harborview Nursery & Lavender Farm offers lavender-based skincare that smells as good as it feels. And speaking of feeling good, Wildflower Soapworks in Elk Rapids handcrafts all-natural soaps and body products that are as gentle on the skin as they are on the planet.

Embracing sustainable swaps is a win-win, and these shops make it easier than ever to join in.

Pet Boutiques & Natural Supplies in Traverse City & Nearby Towns

If you have a dog, cat, or any pet for that matter, you know they’re more than just pets—they’re family. And like family, they deserve the best. That’s why we made a section specially for our furry friends. It’s no wonder Northern Michigan is home to a variety of pet boutiques, specialty shops, and natural pet supply stores dedicated to keeping them happy, healthy, and spoiled.

For natural pet food and eco-friendly products, visit Pets Naturally in Traverse City. And because your pup deserves freshly baked treats too, they even have a dog bakery. Contigo Dogs offers quality, handmade accessories—and yes, even dog yoga and exercise programs! In Suttons Bay, Hillside Market carries farm-to-market pet treats and food for all sorts of animals, while River Street Dog in Elk Rapids offers a curated selection of high-quality toys and accessories. Because, let’s be honest—life is ruff when your human doesn’t buy you the good stuff.

Hobby & Craft Supply Stores in Northern Michigan

For all the hobbyists and craft lovers out there—Northern Michigan is home to DIY stores galore. Whether you’re into knitting, sewing, painting, model-building, or just looking for inspiration, exploring a craft store is the perfect way to spark creativity.

If you love traditional crafts, don’t miss Nawbin in Traverse City, a First People-inspired shop specializing in beads, leather, rocks and crafting supplies. For those passionate about model-building one of downtown Traverse City’s oldest businesses is Trains & Things Hobbies a must-visit for kits, tools, and collectibles. If knitting is your forte, you will feel right at home at InterQuilten in Traverse City, Farm to Needle in Beulah or Wool & Honey in Cedar, offering high-quality yarns, fabrics, sewing and knitting supplies.

Whatever your passion, these craft shops are sure to inspire your next DIY project.